[Congressional Record Volume 163, Number 27 (Wednesday, February 15, 2017)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E198]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  IN RECOGNITION OF THE DUCHESS OUTLET FOR 60 YEARS OF SERVICE TO THE 
                         GREATER PITTSTON AREA

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. MATT CARTWRIGHT

                            of pennsylvania

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, February 15, 2017

  Mr. CARTWRIGHT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Caprari Family 
of Pittston for celebrating the 60th Anniversary of their family 
business, the Duchess Outlet, last year on Friday, November 11. The 
Duchess Outlet, which began as a textile manufacturer, operates as a 
retail clothing outlet and seller of heirloom toys.
  Established in 1956 by Sam and Theresa Caprari, the Duchess Coat & 
Suit Manufacturing plant was a major garment producer for northeastern 
Pennsylvania and employed over 150 workers. As the business grew, the 
Duchess opened a discount retail outlet that offered raincoats, wool 
jackets, leathers, and outerwear.
  When Sam and Theresa retired, they handed over the business to their 
son Paul and his wife Paula. The Duchess Outlet expanded their 
inventory with suits, sport jackets, outerwear, and name-brand 
raincoats. The store also began carrying Madame Alexander Dolls and 
opened a Doll Museum. The Museum now has more than 1,000 pieces, dating 
from the 1930s to the present.
  In addition to operating the Duchess Outlet, the Caprari family has a 
long record of service to their community and country. During World War 
II, Sam Caprari served as a military aircraft-manufacturing instructor. 
He was a member of the Greater Pittston Chamber of Commerce, the Lions 
Club, the Elks Club, and the Italian American Association. Theresa is 
the Vice-President of the Business and Professional Women's Club 
Association. She was also a member of National Federation of 
Independent Business and the Pennsylvania Mental Health Association.
  Paul Caprari is the founder of Hear for You, a program that provides 
hearing aids to those who cannot afford them. Paul also serves with the 
Knights of Columbus Council 372 as a 4th Degree Knight. Paula Caprari 
has received multiple honors and awards for overseeing Duchess Outlet 
Doll Museum, including being recognized by the Madame Alexander 
Company. Julio Caprari is also a 4th Degree Knight of Columbus with 
Council 372. As Co-Chairman of Pittston City History Day, Julio has 
worked with Misericordia University and Luzerne County Agency on Aging 
to preserve the history of Greater Pittston.
  It is an honor to recognize the Caprari family as they celebrate the 
Duchess Outlet's 60th Anniversary. May they continue to serve their 
neighbors and community in the Greater Pittston Area with distinction.

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