NE3_Current Issue

Zone 3

a world free of MS

By Tom Waring Northeast Times

It’s that time of year for Father Judge teacher Frank Cahill and dozens of Crusaders.

The National Multiple Sclerosis Society will be holding its 44th annual Bike MS: City to Shore Ride, a fundraising event that starts in Cherry Hill and finishes in Ocean City, on Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 30 and Oct. 1.

Cahill, a longtime English teacher at Judge, has been involved with the ride for 19 years. He rode the course for 12 years in support of a cousin, Bernadette Bellerjeau, who has multiple sclerosis.

MS is an unpredictable, often disabling disease of the central nervous system. There is no known cause or cure. Symptoms vary from person to person and range from numbness and tingling to mobility challenges, blindness and paralysis. An estimated 1 million people live with MS in

Clockwise from bottom left: Joseph Walker, Dominic LaSpina, Vincenzo LaSpina, William Gao, Frank Cahill, Benjamin Legagneur, Demarius Gant, Connor Horn.

Jobs for Americans first

As the Buy American Made Campaign focuses on Jobs for Americans first, our positive message continues to unite people all over the United States.

Americans agree that with all the new products being invented on a regular basis, there are endless opportunities to manufacture products in the United States that would expand the need for new quality jobs and job skills.

We all know that the global market is here to stay and that American workers must be a growing part of the global economy. In order for more companies to grow their product lines in the United States, it is important for America’s consumers to direct as much of their buying power toward the items produced by Americanbased businesses that employ American workers from the point of production to the point of sale.

Everyone is asked to support America’s local businesses throughout the year and during the first Friday, Saturday and Sunday of every month, which is promoted as “National Small Business Weekend.” This is another opportunity for America’s consumers to support local small businesses that help employ more than 60 million Americans.

For more information visit: NationalSmallBusinessWeekend.com. Thanks for your participation and for spreading the word about the Buy American Made Campaign and all efforts that promote American-made products and American workers.

Michael Blichasz

American Workers Radio, 860 AM

Go play, little Johnny

This is what happens when you elect a child like John Fetterman, eliminating the Senate dress code. Has he become capable of speaking the English language yet? His constituents would like to know. He hasn’t been in public since his babbling episode in front of the unions in Philadelphia. Talk about taxation without representation.

Maybe he should put on his shorts and hoodies and go to the playground with the rest of the toddlers. The disrespectful lout.

Richard Donofry East Torresdale

White supremacy is a threat

This is a rebuttal to Al Ulus’ Sept. 13 letter to the editor.

Mr. Ulus, once again, you have given an example of your lack of empathy, understanding or perhaps willful ignorance with your last opinion letter, “Constitution Day.”

I do not argue that this day should be one that we acknowledge. However, the problem I have is what you said about white supremacy not being the most dangerous threat to our homeland. Actually, our whole political system is unfortunately embedded in it. Have you heard of the mayor of Newbern, Alabama? His name is Patrick Braxton, an African American man who has been shut out of his office. They are claiming it is not because of race, but it seems the white people in charge took umbrage when he was the only one to file candidacy paperwork with

the county clerk by the town’s 2020 mayoral election deadline. He won by default, and was sworn in.

The population in this town is 85% black. He and his council members were locked out of the town hall after having one meeting. There is presently a lawsuit. His lawyer had messages of lynchings and threats to her children. These are threats here at home made by our own citizens.

It is things like this, happening now, that are a threat to our Constitution. We have work to do as white people not to act like white supremacy is not a big deal. It is a domestic threat, here at home. Folks that are home-grown terrorists.

It is white supremacy that is influencing people to ban real history to be taught in school, lest our white children feel bad about themselves, when the truth is their parents do not want to face the reality that there has been a system put in place to not allow folks who do not look like them to get their share of the American Dream. It is white supremacy that allowed redlined neighborhoods, preventing people of color to get loans or at least at a reasonable rate, unlike my family, or I am guessing yours.

This prevented generational wealth, home ownership where we are able to pass down such properties to our families.

A system like this, again founded on the freedom for white male landowners, not “all” was and still is a threat. Maybe you do not feel like it is for you, as, if you are white like me, this has not been an issue. However, I have had an open mind for quite a few years now. I have been able to admit I was wrong about things, and have learned from people how it is for them and listen to their stories. I have a responsibility as a parent of a black child to learn and teach her that this country is great, but not perfect, and I can’t walk in her shoes. I can only try to speak out when I read an opinion that is racist, but done in the disguise of patriotism. True patriotism includes everyone, and fights the threat at home.

Eileen Teti Castor Gardens

Tax abatement

I am tired of reading articles about how the tax abatement is responsible for so many of the city’s problems. I live in a senior citizens’ development of 320 houses that has the tax abatement. The residents are middle-class working people. First let me point out that the abatement means you pay lower taxes for 10 years, not no taxes. Second the abatement has actually increased the city’s tax base. A large number of people in my development have actually moved back into the city from the suburbs. An equally large number did not move out of the city because of the abatement. Many of the houses have passed the 10-year mark and are now paying full taxes. No one has moved out because of that. The end result is that the city now has a larger number of taxpaying households because of the abatement.

Ronni Flitter Somerton

FREE HEALTH SEMINARS

with support from the Anna T. Jeanes Foundation

KEEP YOUR ARTERIES AND VEINS HAPPY

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 3 – 6:30 pm

Temple University Hospital – Jeanes Campus, Cheltenham Friends Meetinghouse

Amanda Phillips, MD

Temple Vascular & Endovascular Surgeon

Our vascular system controls the veins and arteries that deliver blood and oxygen to all parts of the body, so it’s no wonder that a healthy vascular system is key to a long life. In this talk, Dr. Amanda Phillips, a Temple vascular surgeon, will discuss the importance of vascular health as we grow older, and what individuals can do themselves to ensure a healthy and highly functional vascular system.

PARKINSON’S DISEASE SUPPORT GROUP

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 11 – 6:00 pm (the second wednesday of every other month)

Temple University Hospital – Jeanes Campus, Cheltenham Friends Meetinghouse

Willard Kaso , MD, MPH

Associate Professor, Neurosurgery, Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University

Living with Parkinson’s disease and their families to articipate in this support group scheduled every other month. In this group, we will discuss your challenges, and work to empower each other facing this disease.

To register or request more information about this support group, please call June Ro at 215-707-2619 or email: Jungyoon.Ro@tuhs.temple.edu

THE BENEFITS OF PLANT-BASED NUTRITION

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 18 – 6:30 pm

Temple University Hospital – Jeanes Campus, Cheltenham Friends Meetinghouse

Brianna Walters, MS, RD, LDN

Temple Clinical Dietitian

Plant-based alternatives to meat have become exceedingly popular over the past few years, and it isn’t without good reason: diets that are rich in these nutritious alternatives are associated with lower risks of heart disease, improved digestive health and easier weight management. During this talk, Brianna Walters, clinical dietitian, will describe all the benefits of plant-based nutrition, and even provide some suggestions for recipes that incorporate this healthier alternative so you can work these foods into your everyday diet.

BIKE MS

➤ Continued from Page 1

the United States. Most people are diagnosed from ages 20 to 50, and MS affects women three times more than men.

Cahill also participates in honor of his daughter, Sherry McGrath, who was born with Rett syndrome – a rare genetic mutation affecting brain development in girls – and was later diagnosed with MS.

Judge students have been volunteering for more than a decade.

“I can’t believe they do it for me every year. It’s spectacular,” Cahill said.

On Saturday, Cahill and the student volunteers will meet in the parking lot at 5 a.m. and take a bus to a Bike MS rest stop in Egg Harbor City.

“It seemed like a really good cause, and I immediately signed the form,” senior Joseph Walker said as to why he is volunteering. “I love helping.”

Sophomore Benjamin Legagneur recalls taking part last year, with his brother Isaiah (class of ‘23), and handing out snacks to riders.

Sophomore William Gao also participated last year, cutting oranges for the riders and talking to them before they continued on their way to the Ocean City Sports & Civic Center, at 6th Street and the Boardwalk.

Senior Vincenzo LaSpina said learning about MS “tugged at my heartstrings” and led him to volunteer. Dominic LaSpina, his twin, is also looking forward to contributing to the cause.

“It’s a sad thing for anyone to go through,” he said. “I want to help out the best I can.”

Some 4,000 cyclists – including Judge guidance director Michele Purcell and financial aid/tuition officer Kathie Gibson – are expected to participate. In

all, more than $4.3 million is expected to be raised for local programs, services and research to fuel breakthroughs for Americans living with MS. Those numbers are down from pre-pandemic levels, but still significant.

At Judge, the effort is announced daily in the morning and during lunch periods. Students who pay $5 will have their names printed on paper dots that hang in Cahill’s classroom. Fundraising Friday dress-down days are another way to raise money, at $2 per student.

The Judge students will be among nearly 1,000 volunteers at six rest stops along the route.

“We’re doing this to give back to the community,” said sophomore Connor Horn.

In past years, Judge students have had a chance to interact with Cahill’s daughter and wife – also named Sherry – at the rest stop.

Cahill also volunteers on the second day of the event, and he’ll pay for the gasoline and tolls for any student who joins him.

Later, Cahill will have his seniors in English class write a research paper on MS.

On Saturday, in addition to handing out snacks, protein bars, drinks, ice and oranges, students will help set up bike racks and the course, giving riders the option to stop or continue on their way. A DJ will play music.

“It’s like a big party atmosphere,” Cahill said.

The students can join the party but also have a job to do.

“They work their butts off,” Cahill said. “That’s a Judge kid. Judge kids do anything to help people.” ••

To contribute to the cause, go to Frank Cahill’s Facebook page and click the link to his donation page.

Recycle bucket giveaway

City Councilman Brian O’Neill will hold a recycle bucket giveaway on Saturday, Sept. 30, from 9-11 a.m. at his office at 432 Rhawn St. (behind American Heritage). Call 215-685-6431. ••

Car show/flea market

An outside car show and flea market will take place on Saturday, Sept. 30, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at United Methodist Church of the Good Shepherd, 10901 Calera Road. Vendor spaces are $25. Call Rosemarie at 215-868-5304 to reserve a space. Car show registration is $20, and trophies will be given out. Call Bob at 267968-2736 for car show details. ••

Meetings for mature adults

Prince of Peace Church, 6001 Colgate St., has resumed its Mature Adults meetings, which will take place on the first and third Thursdays of the month. New members are welcome. Coffee will be served. ••

Sukkah dinner

Congregations of Shaare Shamayim, 9768 Verree Road, will be hosting Steak and Salmon in the Sukkah on Wednesday, Oct. 4, at 6:30 p.m. Cost per person is $38. Mail your payment, marked Sukkah Dinner. Call 215-677-1600. ••

Luncheon at synagogue

Congregations of Shaare Shamayim, 9768 Verree Road, will host a Sukkot luncheon following Sukkot services on Sunday, Oct. 1. The cost is $15 per person. Call the synagogue office at 215-677-1600 for more details and to make a reservation. ••

St. Jerome Seniors to meet

The St. Jerome Seniors group will meet on Thursday, Sept. 28, in the school hall, 3031 Stamford St. Arrive by 10 a.m. Meetings begin promptly at 11 a.m. ••

Gearo’s closes abruptly

Gearo’s Grille, 1913 Welsh Road, closed for good on Saturday night.

AROUND TOWN

There is no word on whether another eatery will move into the spot.

Gearo’s opened in 1967. A spot at 6836 Bustleton Ave. closed in 2008. ••

Book club in Oct.

The Book Club of Congregations of Shaare Shamayim, 9768 Verree Road, will be holding a Zoom session on Monday, Oct. 2, at 7 p.m. The October book is The Violin Conspiracy by Brendan Slocumb. For further information or to register for the book club program, call Lynn Ratmansky at 215-677-1600. ••

Polish festival on Saturday

A Polish American Festival will take place on Saturday, Sept. 30, from 1-6 p.m. at St. John Cantius, 4415 Almond St. Admission is free. The festival will feature Polish and American food and refreshments, music, activities for the kids and vendors. Visit PolishAmericanCenter. com. ••

Party at Polish Home

The Associated Polish Home, 9150 Academy Road, will host a post-Pulaski Day Parade party on Sunday, Oct. 1, beginning at 2:30 p.m. Polish-American food and refreshments will be available, along with music and attractions for kids. Admission is free. ••

Depression screenings

People Acting To Help (PATH) will be providing free wellness and depression screenings at its headquarters at 1919 Cottman Ave. (at Castor Avenue), on Thursday, Oct. 5, from 1-4 p.m. The screenings are part of National Depression Screening Day, and are free, anonymous and open to all. Visit www.pathcenter. org. ••

Discussion of vascular health

Temple University Hospital –Jeanes Campus, Cheltenham Friends Meetinghouse (7600 Central Ave.) will host Keep Your Arteries and Veins Happy on Tuesday, Oct. 3, at 6:30 p.m. Dr. Amanda Philips,

a Temple vascular and endovascular surgeon, will discuss the importance of vascular health as people grow older and what they can do to ensure a healthy and highly functional vascular system. To register, call 215-728-4861 or email Rosemarie. Schlegel@tuhs.temple.edu. ••

Casino trip to AC

Holy Innocents is sponsoring a trip to Tropicana Casino in Atlantic City on Thursday, Nov. 2. A bus will depart L Street and Hunting Park Avenue at 9:30 a.m. and will leave Tropicana at 4:45 p.m. The cost is $35, due by Oct. 23. There will be $20 in slot cash. To reserve your seat, call Cindy at 215-535-2740. ••

Local opera shows

Amici Opera Company will present Massenet’s Eve on Saturday, Sept. 30, at 4 p.m. at United Methodist Church of the Redeemer, 1128 Cottman Ave.

Next will be Mozart’s Marriage of Figaro on Sunday, Oct. 15, at 2:30 p.m. at Dock Woods, 275 Dock Drive, Lansdale. Marriage of Figaro will also be performed on Saturday, Oct. 21, at 4 p.m. at United Methodist Church of the Redeemer.

United Methodist Church of the Redeemer will host a performance of Puccini’s Madame Butterfly on Sunday, Oct. 22, at 3 p.m.

Madame Butterfly will also be performed on Tuesday, Oct. 24, at 6 p.m. at La Piovra Trattoria, 7901 High School Road, Elkins Park. The show and 3-course dinner cost $54.95. For a reservation, call 215-6063800.

For more information, call 215-2240257 or visit the Amici Opera Company page on Facebook. ••

Donate blood

The American Red Cross is encouraging people to donate blood. Those who give throughout September will receive a coupon for a free haircut, thanks to Sport Clips Haircuts, and will be entered for a chance to win a VIP NASCAR racing experience.

The Northeast Philadelphia Blood Donation Center, 1401 Rhawn St., is open

Monday-Wednesday, 11:45 a.m. to 8 p.m., Thursday, 10:15 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., and Friday-Sunday, 7:15 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

A local date is Sept. 27, 2-7 p.m., at Christ the King Roman Catholic Church, 3252 Chesterfield Road.

Schedule an appointment to give blood by downloading the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood. org or calling 800-RED CROSS. ••

Sign up for 5K

The 20th annual Father Judge Crusader Classic 5K will take place on Sunday, Oct. 1, at 9 a.m. All proceeds will benefit the Fire Lt. Robert Neary Scholarship Fund at Father Judge. Neary, class of 1970, died in 2012 when the roof of a Kensington furniture store collapsed while he was on the scene of a fire at an abandoned warehouse.

The entry fee is $30. The cost is $15 for 18 and under. Race-day registration will take place in the Judge schoolyard beginning at 7:30 a.m. Event T-shirts will be provided to all who pre-register (and to race-day registrants while supplies last). The race will begin at the bandshell in Pennypack Park and continue along the banks of Pennypack Creek and finish with a lap around the Father Judge track (behind the school). Medals will be presented to the top three male and female finishers in each age group.

Call 215-338-9494, Ext. 1027 or email khuckel@fatherjudge.com. ••

St. Martha beef and beer

St. Martha Parish will hold a beef and beer on Saturday, Sept. 30, from 7-11 p.m. at Philadelphia Ballroom, 2014 Hornig Road. The cost is $35 in advance and $40 at the door. The event is for people 21 and older. There will be entertainment by DJ Tommy T, the Tenderhooks and the Mummers. The evening will include door prizes, basket raffles, a 50/50 and cash bar. Tables can be reserved with the purchase of eight or more tickets. Tickets are available in the rectory, after Mass or at stmarthaparishbeefandbeer. eventbrite.com. Call Helen Konstance at 215-292-3842 or Debbie Quinn at 267566-0323. ••

“The purpose of human life is to serve and to show compassion and the will to help others.” -Albert Schweitzer.

who, voluntarily, gave me his telephone and cooperated with the ongoing investigation

The anonymous caller, who called in the licence plate of the fleeing driver.

Police Officer Randall, who was professional, thoughtful and respectful of my age

Mr. Mohammed Almukahal,

I hope they can realize how much their simple acts made the difficult incident less daunting.

-Auntie Lin

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I would like to offer sincere thanks to the three people who demonstrated the purpose of human life when I had my accident at Academy Road and Grant Avenue:

AROUND TOWN

Enroll in preschool

Preschool classes for 3- and 4-yearolds will start on Monday, Oct. 2, at St. James Evangelical Lutheran Church, 5185 Castor Ave. (at Pratt Street). The school, celebrating its 50th anniversary year, welcomes Eva Parisi as its lead teacher. Information can be found at www.stjamesphilly.org. ••

Attend writers event

Holy Family University’s Distinguished Writers Series will welcome former Philadelphia Poet Laureate Yolanda Wisher on Wednesday, Oct. 4, at 6:30 p.m. in the Education and Technology Center Auditorium (9801 Frankford Ave.). The event is free and open to the public. Wisher is the author of Monk Eats an Afro and co-editor of the anthology Peace is a Haiku Song and teaches poetry workshops. ••

Broadway show

The Marlyn Chakov Fein Chapter, Fox Chase Cancer Center is running a bus trip to New York on Saturday, Sept. 30, to see the Broadway production of Some Like It Hot. The cost is $230, which includes orchestra seating and roundtrip motor coach. Bus leaves from 604 Township Line Road, Cheltenham, at 9:15 a.m. Call Harriet at 215-969-8366 for tickets. The event supports cancer research and compassionate patient care at Fox Chase Cancer Center. ••

Back-to-school event

Johnson Memorial United Methodist Church, 3117 Longshore Ave. in Mayfair, is having a community outreach back-to-school event on Saturday, Sept. 30, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. ••

Craft fair and flea market

Memorial Presbyterian Church of Fox Chase, 7902 Oxford Ave., will host a fall craft fair and flea market on Saturday, Sept. 30, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. More than 20 local and small business vendors will be on site. ••

Senior social group

Senior citizens are invited to join a social living group that meets every Wednesday at 10 a.m. at St. James Evangelical Lutheran Church, 5185 Castor Ave. (at Pratt Street). There will be fellowship, games and snacks. Call 215-743-1828. ••

See Fiddler

The Star Players, of the city Department of Parks and Recreation, will present Fiddler on the Roof on Oct. 6, 7 and 8 at 7 p.m. at Venice Island Performing Arts Center, 7 Lock St. in Manayunk. Bill Arthur is the director and plays the lead role. Tickets are $15 in advance and $20 at the door. Payment can be made on Venmo @ TheStarplayers or at Holmesburg Recreation Center, 4500 Rhawn St. For more information, call 215-6858714, follow @starplayersPPR on Twitter, like the Facebook page or email Starplayers2013@gmail.com. ••

Clothing and more drive

The Bustleton Bengals will hold a Clothing Drive & “More” on Saturday, Oct. 14, from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Conwell Avenue and President Street. They will accept usable and wearable clothing and shoes, accessories, household items and small toys.

They will not accept pots, pans, large toys, board games, puzzles, electronics, glass, VCR tapes, CDs, books, oversized play sets or outdoor play sets and workout/exercise equipment.

All donations must be in a tied trash bag. The Bengals will receive payment based on price per pound.

If you’re unable to drop off your donations, call Chris Tarducci at 215906-8179. ••

Local author releases novel

Mayfair author Becky Flade announced that Tirgearr Publishing has released her latest novel, Beautiful Dangerous, which is the fourth book in Flade’s award-winning series of romantic thrillers set in Philadelphia. It is available

at all major digital retailers, including Amazon, Barnes & Noble and iBooks/ iTunes. Flade, a Frankford High School graduate, has been writing since kindergarten, when her Brown Elementary School teacher, Miss Daniels, helped with her first book detailing her and her best friend’s first solo trip to the market for milk. For more information, follow Flade on Facebook. ••

Proposed testing change

With the support of area school superintendents, Reps. Martina White and Eric Nelson unveiled a plan to eliminate the annual Pennsylvania System of School Assessment testing system used by public schools and replace it with benchmark testing technology.

“Benchmark testing technology is superior because it provides an objective, standardized and nationally recognized way to evaluate and compare student performance, which helps teachers and administrators in decision-making and improving classroom innovation and efficiency,” White said. ••

Halloween costumes for CHOP patients

Anthony “Stitch” Picariello, a letter carrier at Bustleton Post Office, is collecting new Halloween costumes to donate to the oncology floor at CHOP. The effort is in memory of Sophia Pasquarella, who died at age 8 on Halloween of leukemia. Her dad, Pete, began collecting costumes the following year to donate to the kids at CHOP so they could enjoy trick or treating like every other kid. There are drop boxes in the lobbies at the Bustleton and Somerton post offices and at the Somerton Youth Organization fields and clubhouse. The deadline to drop off is Oct. 10. For more information, call 215588-7838 or email stitches1214@aol. com. ••

Flea market at Delaire

Delaire Landing, 9355 State Road, will host a flea market on Saturday, Oct. 14, from 9 a.m. to noon. The rain date

is Oct. 15. The market will be open in the parking lot by the tennis courts. If interested in a spot, email Joyce at Jafineberg@yahoo.com. ••

Harvest Fair in Parkwood

3rd Reformed Church, 3024 Byberry Road in Parkwood, will host a free Harvest Fair on Saturday, Oct. 14, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. There will be games, crafts, entertainment and refreshments. The rain date is Oct. 21. ••

Fundraiser for cosmetology students

Tomika Lynn Miles, owner of Journey Hair Salon, 7041 Castor Ave., will hold a “Pieces of Me” gala fundraiser on Oct. 8, from 6-10 p.m. at the IATSE Ballroom and Anthony Caterers, 2401 S. Swanson St. Proceeds will benefit continuing education for graduating cosmetology students.

Tickets cost $125 and include dinner, open bar, live entertainment and a red carpet. Call 215-722-8010. ••

Third Thursday in Tacony

Tacony Community Development Corporation will hold its final Third Thursday event on Oct. 19 from 6 to 9 p.m. in the parking lot at 6846 Torresdale Ave. (at Longshore Avenue). The free event will feature a food truck, live music, produce and bread for sale, quality vendors, activities for the entire family and information tables from elected officials and local organizations. ••

Motivational speaker at KleinLife

Tikvah will present motivational speaker Melissa Hopely Rice on Sunday, Oct. 29, at 2 p.m. at KleinLife, 10100 Jamison Ave. Rice will discuss her personal experience with mental illness as well as those who have inspired her along the way. The event is free and open to the public. Advance reservations are required. Call 215-832-0671 or email Office@tikvahajmi.org.

Be All You Can Be

By Tom Waring Northeast Times

American Heritage Credit Union, 2060 Red Lion Road, last week welcomed U.S. Army Maj. Gen. Curtis Buzzard for a roundtable discussion and luncheon about the importance of the Army’s recruiting mission.

Buzzard was born at the old Naval Hospital in South Philadelphia and attended Malvern Prep, then received his commission into the Army from the United States Military Academy at West Point, graduating in 1992 with a degree in economics. He has been the commanding general of the United States Army Maneuver Center of Excellence at Fort Moore (formerly Fort Benning) in Georgia since July 2022.

“You come to us to be ‘Moore,’ ” he said.

Buzzard noted that the Army has revived its “Be All You Can Be” campaign. He said the Army offers some 250 jobs with good benefits, such as the G.I. Bill, and teaches character, trust, teamwork, leadership, direction and skills. It’s known as the greatest team on earth.

“Be All You Can Be really means that,” he said. “Tremendously talented people come out of the Army.”

Buzzard said the volunteer Army is dealing with hurdles such as physical fitness, legal issues and COVID-impacted academics.

“Recruiting is a little bit of a challenge for us right now,” he acknowledged, adding that a diminished Army is a national security concern.

The Army is about 10,000 to 15,000 short of its recruiting goal. Recruits can receive bonuses and enjoy a sense of

security.

Bruce Foulke, president and CEO of American Heritage, hosted the gathering in his conference room.

Ken Wong, a civilian aide to the Secretary of the Army, Pennsylvania East, rounded up representatives from organizations such as MaST Community Charter School, Roman Catholic, Mission BBQ, the

Greater Northeast Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce, the Police Athletic League and Tuskegee Airmen.

Wong said a civilian/Army partnership can assist in recruiting.

Buzzard said he made the right decision to join the Army and make it a career.

“I wouldn’t still be in the Army if I didn’t love it,” he said.

Buzzard presented local recruiters with Army challenge coins, and the group headed to Northeast High after the event at American Heritage.

Buzzard said he is looking forward to the Nov. 5 Call to Service at the Minnesota Vikings at Atlanta Falcons game. The NFL has traditionally held a Salute to Service, but the Falcons have pivoted to a

Call to Service to inspire people to join the military.

“The Falcons are my second-favorite team now,” Buzzard said. ••

For more information, visit Army Staff Sgt. Ikbol Ashurov at Roosevelt Mall or contact him at 848-240-3034 or ikbol.u.ashurov.mil@army. mil

TOM WARING/TIMES

PHOTOS

Maj. Gen. Curtis Buzzard and Bruce Foulke.

Maj. Gen. Curtis Buzzard with Mission BBQ employees Chrissy Keller, Shannon Sperduto and Grant Kingstad.

Maj. Gen. Curtis Buzzard with recruiters Ikbol Ashurov, Curtis Harkless and Nathan Mattson.

Discount applies to purchase of new cabinets or cabinetrefacing with a countertop. Does not apply to countertoponly. May not combine with other o ers or prior purchases. NJ License # 13VH00693000.

Coulter does Judge, dad proud

By Joe Mason Times Sports Editor

Chris Coulter has learned a lot since becoming a Crusader.

But he was a very good football player before he entered Father Judge High School.

Coulter is a senior offensive and defensive interior lineman for the Crusaders, and every day he learns tricks of the trade from the team’s coaches. But his first coach may have been the best one he ever had.

His father, Craig Coulter, was also a star football player. He played at Frankford and was also a very good lineman.

Whenever Coulter was done with games, he would break them down with his first coach. Sadly, Craig suddenly passed away Jan. 2.

“He was a huge influence, I’m dedicating the season to him,” said Coulter, who lives in Winchester Park. “He played for Frankford, but he knew I was going to Judge. Being in the neighborhood and knowing all the friends and brothers of friends who went there, we knew I was going to Judge.

“He was a big fan. He helped me, he always brought up video on his phone and he would show me what I can work on. During NFL games he’d show me different plays that centers do, defensive tackles do. I used some of the stuff. He coached before, he never coached me, but he was always coaching me and helping me get better. He was great about helping me and helping me get better.”

His dad taught him well, and he’s put in a lot of work on his own to build himself into one of the top two-way linemen in the city.

He’s been a force on the offensive line since he arrived, and was starting as a freshman. But now that he’s a senior, he’s comfortable playing on both sides

of the ball. In fact, despite having a lot more experience on the offensive line, he’s finding himself falling in love with playing defensive tackle and nose guard.

“I’ve played center my whole life, I’ve been playing that a lot longer, but I’m doing well on defense, and I love both positions, nose guard and defensive tackle,” Coulter said. “I mean they’re both kind of different in certain ways. Defense get off ball, use hands, be more violent. Offense you need to be more technical in what you do. I definitely think more on offense. I have to think about what linebacker I have to get to and block. You don’t have to do that on defense. Defense you just hold your gap and stop people from running.”

It’s good that Coulter is ready to play anywhere because the Crusaders need quality linemen.

Judge plays in the Catholic League Red Division, which is one of the toughest

leagues in the state. The Crusaders play Archbishop Wood, St. Joe’s Prep, La Salle and Roman Catholic.

To make the state playoffs, the Crusaders will have to be better than the Hawks and Explorers since all three are in Class 6A.

Thus far, the Crusaders are 2-3 on the young season, including wins over Archbishop Ryan and William Tennent. The three losses were against teams that have combined for one loss on the season, so they’ve been playing tough teams gearing up for Red Division play.

There aren’t a lot of easy wins on that schedule, but that’s exactly the way Coulter likes it. You only get better playing the best, and that means Coulter should be a better lineman when the season ends.

“Center is tougher than guard and tackle, it’s one of the more important jobs on the field, especially when you’re playing tough teams, but I love that,” Coulter

said. “Being up front, knowing if you don’t block the guy in front of you, there’s no gain on the play. That’s a big problem. Main key is being confident that you can block anyone.

“I love when we play those teams in the (Red Division) because you’re going to be tested every day. It’s hard, but it makes it more fun.”

Coulter is excited for football, and despite all his success in the sport, it might be his final year.

That’s because his newest sport, track and field, has been just as good to him.

Coulter joined the team as a sophomore and qualified for states in the shot put both years.

He has options next year, and he’s still trying to figure that out. He’d love to play football. He’d also love to throw the shot put. In a perfect world, he could do both, but he also has ambitious plans in the classroom.

“Freshman year I was stuck on football, 100 percent in college,” said Coulter, who ranks 15th in his senior class, is in the National Honor Society and is vice president of his class. “Then I started doing track. I’m mixed between the two. I love both sports, and I’ll be happy with either or maybe both.

“Right now I’m between engineering or sports and business management. I like both a lot.”

He’ll make an impact at anything he does. And he’ll continue to play a big role at home, where he lives with his mom.

“I’ve been trying to help, spending time with her, we’re doing OK,” he said. “She’s doing good, she’s doing better. I’m just trying to look out for her. It’s just me and her now.

“I’m dedicating the season to my dad. I really want to have a good year. We had some good wins last year and every year we build off the good wins. This year, I hope we can have a good season.

“Keep an eye out for Father Judge.”

CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

Chris Coulter anchors the offensive and defensive lines for Father Judge.

Local wrestling announcer now a hall of famer

By Joe Mason Times Sports Editor

When Brady Hicks accepted a freelance assignment from the Northeast News Gleaner, he never expected it to lead to a hall of fame wrestling career.

But it certainly did.

Hicks, a Bensalem native and Port Richmond resident, was working as a freelancer for the now-defunct newspaper and he was given an assignment of covering wrestling superstar Shawn Michaels getting the Christian service award from Holy Family University.

Hicks interviewed the all-time great, and after the recorder was off, the two started talking, and Hicks asked Michaels for some advice on how to get into the world of professional wrestling.

The advice was really good.

“He was very cool, I was talking to him and he recommended I reach out to (Pro Wrestling Illustrated, a magazine covering the sport),” said Hicks, a graduate of Holy Ghost Prep and La Salle University. “He was really friendly and engaging, and I told him I did some writing for wrestling websites in college, and I’d like to do more with it. He said PWI was right there in Blue Bell and told me to reach out to them.”

That was the first step into becoming a hall of famer.

The next one was after he secured a job with the wrestling magazine, he was asked to cover an East Coast Wrestling Association event by PWI publisher Stu Saks. And it wasn’t just any show, it was an ECWA Super 8 show, where the company brings in eight of the top independent wrestlers for a tournament.

“It’s a blast, it’s better than I thought it’d be” Hicks said. “I never expected it to be the family atmosphere with the wrestlers and how welcoming and engaging everyone was. I read about (the Super 8) in PWI before I started writing about it. They had some great guys. Christopher Daniels and Austin Aries are two of the big ones. They weren’t big names, that was their first mainstream east coast exposure. That’s what the Super 8 is all about, creating the next name and the next star.”

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 27, 2023

Hicks got involved with the promotion after covering it, and eventually joined the commentary team. He has also has served as a ring announcer and even a manager. The minute Hicks got to the show, he was a fan.

Now, he’s an ECWA Hall of Famer. The promotion honored Hicks by putting him into the 2023 hall of fame recently at its show in Marlboro, New Jersey.

“It was huge for me, I was thinking about this, I’ve been doing this since 2007, 16 years or so,” Hicks said. “The company has been around for 56 years. It started as a backyard federation. For me, to be a part of it for a large part of its history is important. I have a front-row seat to see great talent get their start. The list of guys who came through ECWA would blow your mind.”

One of the top stars is the announcer going into the hall of fame.

“ECWA has had a hall of fame since 1982, that was the first year they inducted people,” said ECWA owner Ryan Kavanaugh. “My version is rewarding people after a long stint of service. They can still wrestle, manage or be a referee, as long as you did something that makes you a hall of famer, you can be inducted. He’s been through three different generations, and honestly, his work is better today than it’s ever been.

“I would say it’s true of our entire roster, nobody gets into wrestling for the

money at this level. There’s not a ton of it. We’re lucky enough our entire roster is full of guys like Brady who love wrestling, love the fans and love the promotion.”

If you’re an ECWA fan, you probably have heard Hicks. You might not like him because, at times, he can side with the bad guys. That’s what happens when you grow up listening to commentators like Jesse Ventura and Bobby “The Brain” Heenan.

Fans might not always agree with him, but he does keep them entertained, and even when he’s not on their side, Hicks is a fan favorite.

“The first time I signed an autograph, it blew my mind,” Hicks said. “The fans have been so receptive. A huge part of why I’m going into the hall of fame is the fans, they appreciate that goofy commentary. Like a Bobby Heenan. I’m always making jokes and making fun of my partner. It’s pretty cool. Wrestling is fun.”

That doesn’t mean it’s always glamorous.

Hicks does things behind the scenes for the promotion, and always has, like picking up wrestlers from the airport or doing any odd job that needs to be done on days of shows. He also has gotten a few bumps and bruises along the way, one of the most memorable beatings was when he got “assaulted” by former World Wrestling Federation tag team champs.

“I got beat up by Demolition, and that was so much fun,” Hicks said. “It was hard not to smile. Smash picked me up,

my gut was hanging out, Ax puts his fist up and says, ‘This is gonna hurt but not as much as it should. When you fall out, hook your arm on the rope.’

“I fell between the ropes and it looked like I did this fantastic fall, but I landed on my feet and fell. They were huge for me. The fan in me was like, ‘Wow!’ I was giddy.”

Hicks stays busy away from wrestling, too.

He’s a journalist by trade, working for a technology trade magazine, writing about technology and computers, as well as hosts their podcasts.

Speaking of podcasts, he also hosts a Tuesday night show on VOC Nation Wrestling Network. The show, which also includes former WCW wrestler the ‘Stro, is live on the site and then is available as a podcast.

Hicks also has a very supportive wife, Kelly, whom he married last September. It helps that she’s a very understanding woman.

“Kelly is great, she’s so supportive of this,” Hicks said. “We’ve been together for 10 years now, and in that time, I think she’s seen my involvement grow a little. I backed off a little, at some point, you realize that you’re going to make something of it, or it’s going to be a fun weekend hobby. At some point, it shifted from the pipedream of going to WWE someday and be the next Michael Cole or Jerry Lawler to this is a lot of fun.

“I get to do it every month or so and she gets a free Saturday night. It’s become more fun because I don’t do it all the time, so it’s allowed me to have a home life a lot of people in wrestling don’t have.”

Now he has the best of everything. He has a great home life, a great work life and, now, he’s a hall of famer.

“Most common thing people ask is how did I get started, it was like a butterfly effect,” Hicks said. “Shawn Michaels sent me to Stu Saks who sent me to ECWA. It all worked out timing wise. If this didn’t happen, I’d be watching the WWE Network tonight. Best advice? Be open to opportunities to get you closer to where you are. If you try hard, the opportunities will come.”

CONTRIBUTED PHOTO Brady Hicks was inducted into the ECWA Hall of Fame recently.

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UNIT TENANT NAME

This

CROSSWORD THEME: THE 2000s

ACROSS

1. Interest in a venture

6. Hundredweight, acr.

9. Med. sch. requirement

13. ____ the tail ___ the donkey

14. Duran Duran's 1982 hit

15. All plants and animals

16. Part of an eye, pl.

17. Go for the bull's eye

18. Reduction/oxidation portmanteau

19. *Best selling author of the 2000s

21. *Billboard's music artist of the 2000s

23. Chicken ____ ____ king

24. From a thrift store

25. Class-conscious grp.

28. Formerly, once

30. Marine mammal in famous Beatles' song

35. Fabled fliers

37. Jealous biblical brother

39. Averse

40. *"He's Just Not That ____ You" (2009)

41. Acrylic fiber

43. Arabian chieftain

44. Apartments, e.g. 46. *Friendster or Facebook, e.g. 47. 5,280 feet

48. Metal detector, e.g. 50. Goose egg

52. Cry of horror in comics

53. Made a basket

55. *Frodo Baggins and Samwise Gamgee or Nemo and Dory, e.g.

57.

1. Horse prod

2. *Popular DVR device

3. All over again

4. Eucalyptus-eating marsupial

5. Store in a silo

6. Mountain goat terrain

7. *Xbox competitor

8. Libraryful

9. Dignified manner

10. *"The Da Vinci ____," best selling book of the 2000s

11. A-bomb particle

12. Levy

15. Like "something new" boutique

20. Beginning of sleeping disorder 22. Feline sound 24. Put to work

25. *Toyota Hybrid introduced worldwid in 2000

26. 1,000 kilograms

27. Play a part (2 words)

29. *2002-2004 zoonotic epidemic cause, acr. 31. Rich soil

32. China grass

33. Handy

34. *First ever recipient of Oscar for Best Animated Feature 36. Chronic drinkers 38. Post-it slip 42. Like #59 Down

*Pink's 2008 hit (2 words)

Break down

Dismissal or ejection

SUDOKU

Week’s SUDOKU ANSWERS This Week’s CROSSWORD ANSWERS