Joe Gallagher

First and foremost I am a Philly Guy. Born and raised in Northeast Philadelphia. My formative years were spent on the corners, school yards and playgrounds of a "working, middle class" neighborhood called Lawncrest. My mom was a 'House Wife'. She was always there whenever we needed anything. It was her that made sure I became an Alterboy at our church, a Cub Scout, and then a Boy Scout. And of course Little League Baseball. I am a graduate of St. Williams Elementary School and Cardinal Dougherty High School. After High School, like a lot of kids, I spent a year bouncing around jobs, partying, etc. But then the "Iran Hostage Crisis" happened and my patriotism kicked in. I joined the U.S. Marine Corps to fight for my country but unfortunately I never got the chance to fight. My time was spent in California and Maine. After the military I once again bounced around jobs. Warehouse worker, waiter, bartender, roofer, etc. I even began the process of joining the Abington Township Police Department. But decided it wasn't for me. Instead I took my first-ever office job as a debt collector. It was there that I met the true love of my life. Florence Marie Bruno. To this day, the most wonderful woman I have ever met. And my best friend until the day I die. We are very happily married and currently live in Plumstead, Bucks County Pa. After 21 years as a debt collector I came up with the idea for a clothing business. Philly Apparel Co. That was 6 years ago. In 2009 I offically became an Entrepreneur. I am now the proud owner of Philly Apparel Co. based in Bucks County Pa. www.PhillyApparel.com.

I am a firm believer that "every day above ground is a good day". Should a day pass without learning at least one new thing, I feel it was a day wasted. If you know me, it's pretty obvious that I enjoy life very much. I make it a point to smile at everyone I meet, and to be kind and curtious to all. And most important, to laugh often. Edited 7/24/12