Initial Touch Says Final Goodbye to Ridge Ave.

Shops like the Initial Touch Monogramming on Ridge Avenue in Roxborough sometimes get lost in the shuffle. Literally a mom-and-pop store run by Sandie and Jack Dempsey, the shop added that personalized touch to birthday, wedding and graduation gifts for three decades.

This month, Jack and Sandie are saying goodbye. Thirty-one years ago, Sandie opened Initial Touch essentially the same time Bill Keenan was debuting his bar. In June 2012, both locations will close down, as their owners retire—before tackling the next challenge.

"When it's all said and done, you can't believe how nice it's been. We're Roxborough people, so we already knew a lot of people. But, it's been great to see people's children and grandchildren, too," Sandie said.

With 11 grandchildren between the two of them, the Dempseys will settle in their Mitchell Street home, walking distance from the shop. Over the next few weeks, they will complete their final orders, sell their remaining wares and supplies, and will probably close in late June.

Initial Start

The two came into the business from various background. Sandie worked at the Roxborough YMCA, while Jack sold clothing products. That background helped Sandie to begin taking in custom orders, and she eventually outgrew working from home.

Sandie opened up at 6007 Ridge Ave. with Jack helping here and there. She said she started minimally with a few machines, but eventually added a more computerized system. When Jack retired earlier this decade, he came on full-time at the Initial Touch.

The business itself is quite unique. Looking around the homey interior, you see bibs, towels, and hats emblazoned with people's names or notable moments in their lives.

For many Roxborough families, the Dempseys helped with the important days.

"We'll miss the friends we got to see on a daily basis. They're our customers, but we were there for their children's Christening, weddings, and cried when they lost loved ones," Sandie said.

The Future—in Roxborough

The building the Initial Touch resides in was purchased a little over a year ago. The Dempseys agreed to stay on for a little while, and now are ready for retirement.

"We're similar to Billy (Kennan). We're selling what we have for our grandchildren, our family—there's a lot of kids going off to college," Jack said.

Like Keenan, the Dempseys are firmly residing in Roxborough. Kennan may open another restaurant after the . Sandie says she's looking to pick up work at other local places.

"Although, I've never had a commute longer than three blocks. So if I go to Chestnut Hill or somewhere else, I'll have to get used to it," she said.

In their run on Ridge Avenue, the Dempseys endured three break-ins. They've experienced the ups and downs of Roxborough, and are hopeful it's improving again.

"I think we're leaving with the town in a good position. I've seen changes up and down the Ridge, and I hope it continues," Sandie said. "We want to stay right here and see what happens in Roxborough."

To say goodbye, visit the Initial Touch at 6007 Ridge Ave.