Bailey sworn in as newest Kennett Township supervisor
Patricia Muller becomes first woman in township history to serve as board chair
By Richard L. Gaw Staff Writer
Democrat Michael J. Bailey, who defeated Republican Boyd Presnell this past November in the race to fill the third seat on the Kennett Township Board of Supervisors, was officially sworn in to his six-year post during the township’s annual organizational meeting on Jan. 5.
Bailey, accompanied by his wife, Diane, took
his oath of office before Chester County Magisterial Judge Albert M. Iacocca. He will replace former supervisor Richard Leff, who left the board in late December after a 12-year tenure.
Bailey thanked the residents of the township for their support.
“I am truly honored to represent and serve the residents of the township,” he said during his remarks. “I am excited and ready to
By Chris Barber Contributing Writer
Kennett Square’s annual New Year’s Eve Mushroom Drop celebration met with widespread approval this year.
Kathi Lafferty, who founded and continues to run the annual event, said it met with no serious problems, and she was completely happy with everything related to the Mushroom Drop this year.
“I think it was great. I heard people say the entertainment was great as well,” Lafferty said.
Last year’s New Year’s Eve event was beset with horrible weather that included heavy precipitation and even periods of thunderstorms. Even with those adverse conditions, the Mushroom Drop made it through and everyone had a good time. This year yielded nothing
get to work for the people. I look forward to working with my fellow supervisors as well as the township manager Alison [Dobbins] and her team. A special thank you to Dr. Richard Leff for his support and for all his help and support and for all of the contributions he has made throughout the years.”
Bailey, who spent a 44-year career in financial services in the banking and finance sector, entered into
his campaign in 2025 with a commitment “to maintaining Kennett Township as exceptional place to live and creating neighborhoods that we can all be proud of.” He brings a generous list of professional skills
Cheering in the New Year
from the weather to make it uncomfortable for spectators—except, perhaps, a slight chill in the air.
The celebration began on the afternoon of Wednesday, Dec. 31, as the brightly lit mushroom, which had spent the preceding 12 months tucked away in Bob’s Crane headquarters on Birch Street, made its way uptown at 5 p.m., accompanied by a fleet of local firetrucks with their sirens blaring.
The visitors came from the borough and beyond—some attendees reported that they drove from areas throughout suburban Philadelphia – even far away if they were old Kennett Square loyalists.
Lafferty reported that those visitors were there not only to see the midnight event, but also to shop and survey Kennett Square’ s shops and restaurants.
Many who attended were
Do they ever come home from a war?
Bob Herr grew up in Oxford and went on to serve his country in the Vietnam War. He talked to the Chester County Press about his experiences in the war, and how they made a lasting impact on his life
By Betsy Brewer Brantner Contributing Writer
Sometimes we need to revisit the past to under-
stand the future. After all, the story is the journey, not the destination. And so it was with the U.S. veterans who served in Vietnam.
They were treated horrifically when they went to Vietnam, and they were treated badly when they returned home to the U.S.
When they were drafted— and many people who served in Vietnam were drafted—they didn’t go on a whim. They were patri-
Plantings
Peacedale
ots. Their country called them and they answered the call to serve their country. What ensued after that was both a lesson of what to do, and what not to do to for soldiers who go off to war. Vietnam was a different kind of war. No one really knew what they were fighting for, especially the soldiers there.
Mothers who watched their children go off to war just prayed they would come back. Many soldiers didn’t make it home. And even now, five decades later, some of the soldiers are still missing and unaccounted for. It is estimated that 58,220 soldiers were killed in Vietnam. About 1,580 never returned. That means their remains haven’t been recovered.
Bob Herr, a kid that grew up in the small town of Oxford, was one of those people who answered that call. He was 20 years old when he went off to war. He wasn’t old enough to drink yet, but he was old enough to die in service to his country.
“I served in Vietnam from March 1969 until March 1970. I did my
and
Photo by Richard L. Gaw New Kennett Township Supervisor Mike Bailey, joined by his wife, Diane, was sworn in by Chester County Magisterial Judge Albert M. Iacocca on Jan. 5.
Continued on Page 2A
Photo by Chris Barber
The crowd cheers and reaches out as the mushroom descends.
observed stopping for dinner early and then gathering closer to midnight to watch all the Mushroom
Drop festivities. Lafferty said attendance at the event was substantial, although there wasn’t a
good estimate of how many people attended the event. Everyone who was there Continued on Page 2A
Bailey...
Continued from Page 1A
to his new role that include sales, credit, operations, technology, problem-solving, planning collaboration and leadership, and among the key goals for his tenure on the board will be to use technology to ease the township’s tax burden; improve the township’s wireless communications as an integral component of public safety communication during emergencies; boost economic develop-
Mushroom Drop...
Continued from Page 1A enjoyed themselves. The evening was filled with entertainment.
Former mayor and longtime community supporter Leon Spencer not only played in the band Syde 2, but also served as the host for the event.
The evening hours also included dancers, singers and events of chance.
At 10:15 p.m., the nota-
ble stress ball scatter took place—miniature plastic mushrooms were dropped from above and the first three to land in strategically placed goblets earned the prizes for the chances they took. It was announced that the winners received $1700 each.
There were other features during the evening, including music, dancing, and children’s events.
Later on, returning with his guitar and singing voice was Fred McCarthy, who several years ago proposed to his now-wife. He announced that they now have four kids and are considering adding to their family by next Mushroom Drop.
Midway through the evening’s events another surprise came in the form of a short period of snow flurries. Far from being an inconvenience, the snowflakes seemed to add a festive feeling for those in attendance.
Even Bob Burton, the town barber who owns the
ment by attracting new businesses and supporting existing ones; and work with township stakeholders and staff in continuing to provide transparency and accountability.
“My diverse life experiences and achievements have helped develop the competencies and leadership qualities necessary to serve effectively as a supervisor,” Bailey said during an interview with the Chester County Press during his campaign. “[I am seeking to become a supervisor] to
make sure that government works effectively and efficiently, and that we spend our tax dollars wisely. There are certain priorities like open space that are a priority of mine, but when you look at the budget, most if it is around police, fire service and public works, and those three are the priorities that must be managed effectively.”
Muller appointed as board chair
In other township
shop across the street from Lafferty’s Mushroom Cap shop, pitched in for this event, allowing the use of his electrical power so that the organizers could record the evening’s festivities.
Bob’s Crane CEO Rich Nichols guided the descended mushroom around the crowd so folks could touch it for good luck. He even lifted up an infant handed from the audience, which he hoisted up for a mushroom touch.
As they traditionally do at the Mushroom Drop, the crowed members accompanied the lowering of the mushroom by singing “Sweet Caroline.” The crowd dispersed without incident shortly afterward, everyone in good cheer to start the New Year.
realignment, board mem-
ber Patricia Muller was appointed as the first woman to serve as board chairperson in Kennett Township history.
“It is with pleasure that I nominate Mary Patricia Muller for chairwoman of the Kennett Township Board of Supervisors,” said supervisor Geffrey Gamble, who nominated Muller for the post.
“Pat richly deserves this office. During her tenure on this board and on various township commit-
tees now and in the past, she has worked indefatigably for the well-being and advancement of our community and its residents. She combines high energy and exceptional devotion to the township, with responsible fiscal conservatism and a social conscientiousness aimed at benefiting all of our residents.
“Although I believe identity politics are unAmerican, milestones in history deserve to be recognized. Pat will be the
first female to chair the Kennett Township Board of Supervisors in our 322year history.”
In other township news, Gamble will fill the role of vice-chair of the board; Dobbins will again serve as the township’s secretary; Amy Heinrich will continue her role as the township’s treasurer; and Leff was appointed as vacancy board chairman.
To contact Staff Writer Richard L. Gaw, email rgaw@chestercounty.com.
All photos by Chris Barber
The falling stress balls aim for a landing in the goblets.
There was plenty of music, dancing and entertainment throughout the evening.
Kathi Lafferty holds the container of fallen stress mushrooms after they came down.
Fred McCarthy entertained the crowd with singing and his guitar.
A brief snow flurry added to the festivities.
The crane crew guides the mushroom to the street.
Kathi Lafferty and her crew clean up following the drop of the stress balls.
Festive, brightly colored lights were part of the event.
The visitors reach out to touch the descended mushroom for luck.
then went to Fort Gordon, Georgia,” he said.
Many Vietnam veterans went to Fort Gordon, primarily for basic and advanced individual training (AIT) before deploying to Vietnam. Some soldiers were also exposed to Agent Orange during chemical testing at Fort Gordon between 1967 and 1969, often without their knowledge at the time. Agent Orange was also used in Vietnam. Agent Orange is a toxic, plant-killing chemical (herbicide) that the U.S. military used to clear foliage during the Vietnam conflict. Exposure to the herbicide causes Agent Orange effects, which include cancer, congenital (birth) disorders and life-threatening health complications, such as Parkinson’s Disease.
Years later, many soldiers discovered that Agent Orange had given them a variety of ailments – one more tough memento from Vietnam.
Herr got married and 10 days later he flew to Vietnam. It was a 12-hour trip. He had a stop at Hawaii to refuel, then he traveled to Okinawa, and then, finally, he arrived at Saigon.
“I volunteered,” Herr said. “I knew I was going to get drafted. I wanted to get in the Air Force or Navy but I wound up talking to an Army recruiter. He asked if I had heard about the Army Security Agency (ASA), which was four years rather than two if I was drafted. It turned out that there was no ASA at that time in Vietnam and I wound up doing Radio Research for two years.”
Herr added, “I was very nervous and sad leaving for Nam. I had just got married and didn’t want to leave my
wife and all my friends. I know the guy I was then never came back.” Herr was in Pleiku for a year. It was close to the fighting in north-central Vietnam.
“The hill above us had artillery located there,” he explained. “They fired over top of us every night. Helicopters were flying over too. Obviously, if you wanted to sleep you just had to get used to those sounds.”
Pleiku was strategically important during the Vietnam War, particularly after the February 1965 Viet Cong attack on Camp Holloway and the U.S. advisory compound, which resulted in the deaths of eight Americans and more than 100 Americans were wounded. This attack was a major factor in President Lyndon B. Johnson’s decision to escalate U.S. involvement, leading to retaliatory air strikes against North Vietnam and the deployment of more troops. The city was a key military logistics hub, and the surrounding area was the site of the significant 1965 Pleiku Campaign and the subsequent Battle of Ia Drang.
The 633rd Air Base Wing was activated at Pleiku Air Base in 1966 and supported numerous units throughout the war until its inactivation in 1971. The base and city continued to experience attacks, such as rocket attacks in 1970.
Herr explained, “I was a communications specialist. I sent and received messages to the States and I had a top secret crypto clearance. We worked in a communication center, where I received messages about the enemy’s location. They were encrypted, and we would send them back to the U.S. I worked a 12-hour
day.”
He was stationed in the central highlands which were hot in the day, about 80 degrees, and cool at night at 40 degrees. And then there was the steady rain for a month. There were no trees or grass. It was a much different setting than the idyllic farmland that he grew up surrounded by in Oxford, where he often worked in the fields.
A mother of a Vietnam veteran once said, “They pluck a child from working in a field. He has been taught by his mother to do no harm and certainly not to kill. Then they just drop them in a foreign land where they have to kill or be killed. I don’t know how anyone can survive that.”
Herr was 21 when he came home from Vietnam. He came back to the small town where the biggest problem was making sure you had the coolest car in town. Fun in Oxford consisted of driving up and down Third Street to show off your cool ride, or to drag race on Route 472 near the Octoraro Lake.
Herr recalled life after he returned home from Vietnam.
“I met my wife at the airport,” Herr said. “I remember the great meal my mother made for me. My wife and I stayed at my family’s home. I had trouble sleeping at night. Even though I was home in my bed, I still heard the sounds, and smelled the smell of Vietnam. I remember drinking way too much. At the time, I didn’t know anything about PTSD. I just drank a case of beer a day.”
It’s not unusual for a marriage to suffer for the Vietnam veterans. When you marry and leave right after that and are dropped into a country where the sound of rocket attacks are
going on all around you, it is hard to come home to the quiet of a farm. The young farm boys and all veterans who came home from Vietnam were different. How could they not be?
“It bothered me that the people were so against the war and the veterans,” Herr said. “They called us baby killers. Everyone looked at us differently. We didn’t get any respect when we came home. I wouldn’t even wear my uniform to church. The Vietnam War was different from all the wars before us. It was a confusing time. I guess a lot of us covered up our feelings by drinking. Thankfully, after all these years, things have changed.”
But at what cost?
During the Vietnam era, roughly 25 percent of the U.S. population lived in rural communities, including those who lived on farms, meaning millions of potential soldiers came from that background. There’s no precise figure for how many soldiers were from farms, a calculation based on the 9 million figure of men leaving rural communities
during that period suggests approximately 2.25 million men were drawn from these areas for military service.
Eventually, Herr’s marriage ended in divorce. His first wife has passed away. Eventually, he felt like he had grown up or maybe moved on from Vietnam.
“I felt like I did a lot of growing. The country had changed a lot, I had changed a lot in the year that I was away. Neither of us were the same,” he said.
He eventually met a woman and got married again.
“I stopped drinking when I met her. It’s been a long way back. I have a daughter from my first marriage. She lives in Florida, and we do talk,” he said with a sigh.
Herr did use his veterans’ benefits to go to school to learn about computers. He no longer lives in Oxford, and he now lives in New York.
When asked how he feels about the country now, he admitted that he was worried for his grandchildren. He votes. He has been married for 17 years now.
Even though Vietnam
vets were treated differently, he said, “I would do it all again. I was proud to serve my country.”
Approximately 58,220 U.S. military personnel lost their lives during the Vietnam War, while tens of thousands more have died from war-related illnesses like those caused by Agent Orange exposure. The Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C., lists the names of 58,279 service members who died in or near the combat zone. It took 50 years or more until veterans felt the respect they were due from the country that had sent them to Vietnam. In some instances, it also took almost that long for veterans to receive compensation for what happened to them there. Many never recovered from the experiences and they were homeless. The cost of the Vietnam War to veterans who served there will never be fully known or understood. Time, it turns out, does not heal all wounds, and there is a lingering question: Do they ever come home from a war?
Courtesy photo
Vietnam veteran Bob Herr is pictured while he was in Vietnam. Herr was 20 years old when he was drafted to serve his country.
Bob Herr...
Red Carpet Premiere – Dare to Declare: Honoring America’s 250th Anniversary
WEST CHESTER, PA – January 1, 2026 – The Chester County Community Foundation proudly announces the release of Dare to Declare, a powerful short film commemorating the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence
Produced by the Chester County Community Foundation in partnership with Tailor Made Media, Dare to Declare brings together voices from across the community, including civic leaders, educators, and students from Coatesville Area Senior High School. Among the readers are Colonel Cynthia Abbadini, U.S. Army (Ret.), Stacey Ballard, President/CEO of Eadeh Enterprises, Rose Fennell, Superintendent of Valley Forge National Historical Park, and Leon Spencer, who provides the prologue and epilogue. Students Gianna Jackson and Jayden Yacoe, along with classmates from Joseph Tassoni’s AP Government classes, proudly represent Coatesville Area Senior High School in this historic project.
The film is part of the America250 PA Chester County initiative, which invites residents to reflect on our founding principles and envision the next 250 years of American democracy.
Premiere Events:
Celebrate the launch of Dare to Declare at one of three red-carpet community premieres:
• Uptown Knauer Performing Arts Center
Monday, January 26 | 5:00–6:30 PM
• The Colonial Theatre
Wednesday, January 28 | 6:30–8:00 PM
• Kennett Library
Tuesday, February 10 | 6:00–7:30 PM
Each event will feature the screening of the short film and an opportunity to connect with community members who helped bring this project to life. Admission is free and open to the public.
“This video is a wonderful way to unite our community around the words that built our nation and the people who continue to shape its future,” said Karen Simmons, CEO of the Chester County Community Foundation.
About the Chester County Community Foundation: Headquartered in West Chester’s Lincoln Building, the Chester County Community Foundation connects people who care with causes that matter so their legacy philanthropy makes a difference now and forever. The Community Foundation holds over $136 million in trust and annually awards $6+ million in grants and scholarships. To learn more about the Community Foundation, visit www.chescocf.org.
Optimism at the start of a new year
It’s always good to try to find renewed hope and optimism as a new year gets underway. If you live or work in Chester County, there are lots of reasons to be excited about the year ahead.
We are certainly looking forward with optimism to how plans progress this year for the King’s Cross Development and the creation of the Pearl Theatre on Third. Under current plans, the Pearl Theatre on Third will seat 275 people for live theatre performances and movies. There will also be a 50-person black box theater—a flexible space for live performances like comedy shows, poetry readings, or private events. Local officials and community leaders have been working for decades to bring a theatre back to Oxford’s downtown because it could serve as a cornerstone to the revitalization efforts. It’s still going to take some time, but we can’t wait to see the results of the revitalized and reimagined downtown in Oxford Borough.
Similarly, we look forward to the development of a new community theater in the Borough of Kennett Square. Kennett Square Borough Council recently approved the sale of the two outbuildings at the Borough Hall Complex to The HUB for Arts and Culture, a collaboration between the William Lyster May Foundation, the Kennett Flash, the Kennett Amateur Theater Society, and If Not For Music for a new community theater. Kennett Square Borough long ago established itself as a hub for arts and culture, and a new community theater will be a good addition to the community.
Southern Chester County is fortunate to have some great downtowns, and a lot of work and planning goes into the ongoing revitalization efforts. Strong downtowns help alleviate some of the development pressures felt in the surrounding areas, and they can also strengthen the bonds of a community by being a hub for activities and events.
Another development that we’re excited about is the Oxford Area Historical Association successfully secured some significant state funding to help in its efforts to buy the former Union School Building at 119 S. 5th Street in Oxford. The plans are to ensure that the building will serve as the permanent home of a History Center. Projects that help celebrate the history of the area are great.
2026, of course, will feature the big celebration of America turning 250. Gene Pisasale, a local historian and writer who has published 12 books that focus mostly on the history of Chester County or the Mid-Atlantic region, will be writing a new, monthly column in the Chester County Press throughout 2026 that highlights various interesting aspects of our nation’s history. The first column, “America at 250: The words that helped ignite a revolution,” is featured on Page 1B.
We look forward to publishing the history column, the larger celebration of America at 250, and all the great things that will happen in Chester County in 2026.
Chester County Press
Kick the Nic in 2026: 14.9% of Pa. residents still use tobacco or nicotine products, and they can quit in the year ahead
The American Lung Association provides free resources for people who want to quit using tobacco products
Currently, 14.9% of adults in Pennsylvania use at least one tobacco or nicotine product such as cigarettes, e-cigarettes or nicotine pouches. Nicotine is extremely additive, so the American Lung Association is offering free resources and support to help people quit tobacco and nicotine products for good.
Tobacco use remains the leading cause of preventable death and disease in Pennsylvania killing 22,010 people each year. While it’s best to quit as early as possible, quitting tobacco and nicotine products at any age will enhance the length and quality of your life.
“In our state, 14.9% adults smoke and 17% of high school students use a tobacco product,” said Elizabeth Hensil, the director of advocacy with the American Lung Association in Pennsylvania. “We know that breaking the addiction to nicotine is extremely difficult. For most people, it takes multiple attempts to quit tobacco for good. Each quit attempt brings a person closer to reaching their goal. It is critical that people who are ready speak with their healthcare provider about Food and Drug Administration-approved tobacco treatment medications, coupling them with proven effective cessation programs to quit.”
The American Lung Association offers a free Lung Helpline to help people get started on their journey to quit. People can call 1-800-LUNGUSA to connect with a licensed registered nurse, respiratory therapist or certified tobacco treatment specialist. Services to help people quit nicotine and tobacco are available for adults and also teens ages 13 and up. The Lung Helpline also offers programs to employers to help their employees quit. In addition, the Lung Helpline can help assist with information about lung cancer screening if they are eligible, help navigate insurance challenges, and
connect people with Lung Health Navigators who specialize in lung cancer, asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and pulmonary fibrosis. For more information about quitting tobacco, visit the American Lung Association website at Lung.org or call the Lung HelpLine at 1-800-LUNGUSA (1-800586-4872) and press 2. Most health insurance covers medications and counseling to help you quit. If you don’t have insurance, check out your coverage options through Healthcare.gov or Pennie.gov – open enrollment runs through Jan. 15. For more information, visit Lung.org/openenrollment.
Republican Party of Pennsylvania names new deputy chair
The Republican Party of Pennsylvania is proud to announce Abby Kail as its new deputy chair.
A political science major and longtime Republican advocate, Kail was raised with a deep respect for civic duty and the belief that voting is both a privilege and a responsibility. She gained experience working on political campaigns and has
built a strong foundation in public service.
Kail has served on the Pennsylvania Republican State Committee since 2022, and she remains active at the local level. She attended the most recent Republican National Convention.
Kail’s involvement in politics is deeply personal. Above all else, she is a
Christian, wife, and mother of eight. She believes parents are on the front lines of protecting their children’s future and the values they will inherit, a conviction that drives her leadership and commitment to winning for the next generation.
“In my household, we live by the idea that many hands make light work,” Kail said. “When everyone
shows up with perseverance and purpose, we can move forward together to protect our values and build a strong future for the next generation.”
The Republican Party of Pennsylvania is confident Abby Kail will be a strong leader as deputy chair and looks forward to the impact she will have across the Commonwealth.
Retail theft charges hit five-year high in Pa.
Steve Hoffman..................................Managing Editor
Richard L. Gaw..................................Associate Editor
Chris Barber................................Contributing Writer
Alan E. Turns...............................Advertising Director
Teri Turns................................Advertising Executive
Helen E. Warren......................Advertising Executive
Gabbie Burton............................ Contributing Writer, .......................Digital Marketing and Media Specialist
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AMERICA at 250
America at 250:
The words that helped ignite a revolution
By Gene Pisasale Contributing Writer
“… a thirst for absolute power is the natural disease of monarchy… To the evil of monarchy we have added hereditary succession… the first is a degradation and lessening of ourselves… the second, claimed as a matter of right, is an insult and an imposition on posterity.”
-Thomas Paine, Common Sense
On January 10, 1776, Robert Bell did something that could have landed him in prison for treason against King George III of England.
In his small shop on Third Street in downtown Philadelphia, Bell printed an incendiary 47-page pamphlet, published anonymously, calling for rebellion against the Crown and independence from Great Britain. Its author was a little-known Englishman who had befriended Benjamin Franklin in London two years earlier.
Franklin was impressed with the man and recommended that he emigrate to the colonies, which he did that same year. Arriving in America just five months before shots were fired at Lexington and Concord, Thomas Paine had a front row seat as the American Revolutionary War was unfolding.
Despite “the shot heard ’round the world” on April 19, 1775, calls for inde-
pendence were relatively muted throughout the colonies. Historians estimate that only about 25 percent of citizens supported the move. That changed after Common Sense hit the streets.
Common Sense was read widely and discussed openly in taverns and coffeehouses throughout the land. In approximately one year, an estimated 100,000 copies were sold—a remarkable feat considering the population of America was only about 2.5 million at that time. After its widespread distribution, Paine’s words proved highly persuasive to tens of thousands of people across the colonies, nudging support for independence to well over 50 percent. Paine followed Common Sense up with an even more persuasive clarion call— The American Crisis—in December 1776, its words so grippingly effective that General George Washington had it read out loud to his troops in an attempt to keep his Army together.
“THESE are the times that try men’s souls. The summer soldier and the sunshine patriot will, in this crisis, shrink from the service of their country; but he that stands by it now, deserves the love and thanks of man and woman. Tyranny, like hell, is not easily conquered; yet we have this consolation with us, that the harder the conflict, the more glorious the triumph.”
An incredibly risky wager At this time, America had a minuscule Army and ineffective Navy in 1776— versus Great Britain with the most powerful Army in the western hemisphere and a colossally equipped Navy—only the most aggressive wagerer would have made the bet that the colonies could prevail. After the move for independence was put into writing on July 4, 1776, the die was cast. The members of the Second Continental Congress understood that what they were hoping to achieve would be a ‘long shot’ by any reasonable standard.
Early losses, but some victories King George III and his senior military officers had a lot to be optimistic about early on. The city of Boston was surrounded, and then Crown forces took control of another major port—New York. Washington’s troops were not only on the run, they were ragged, nearly starving and dangerously low on supplies. Retreating across the Delaware River to Pennsylvania, Washington knew he had to be bold to survive. With the help of financier Robert Morris and others, Washington received enough cash and materials to forge not one, but two attacks that would change the way people viewed the war. The Battle of Trenton on December 26, 1776 and the Battle
of Princeton on January 3, 1777 were brilliantly conceived and stunningly successful victories at a time when the Commander knew his Army was near collapse. Being a deeply religious man who often visited local churches during the war, Washington was convinced that a “higher power” had kept his dream, what he called “the Cause,” alive.
A leap in the dark Historian John Ferling captured the essence of this tumultuous era effectively in A Leap in the Dark: The Struggle to Create the American Republic. In the book, Ferling describes the “behind the scenes” workings of all the major players, noting their strengths, their weaknesses and their own doubts about whether they could possibly succeed. That Washington’s Army was desperate for a victory to end the conflict is an understatement. On most days, they were just hoping to find food and stay on their feet. Although the Continental Army had eked out a few wins, the odds still favored the British. The war would drag on until British General Cornwallis found himself in deep trouble in Virginia, getting surrounded by Washington’s as well as France’s troops and warships leading up to the climactic Battle of Yorktown in October 1781.
A world-changing event
Although it may be apocryphal, when Cornwallis surrendered, it has been reported that the British troops were so stunned, they played the English ballad “The World Turned Upside Down” as they relinquished the battlefield to Washington—who literally, “by the grace of God,” had managed to survive. The soldiers who had stood by Washington from the beginning, through the defeats in New York and Philadelphia, the horrendous freezing winters at Valley Forge and Morristown, surely felt in their veins what those assembled in downtown Philadelphia had written on July 4th: “…with a firm reliance on the protection of divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes and our sacred Honor.” Considering the overwhelming odds against us, it is not a stretch to say that the words to the tune written decades later were true: “America! America! God shed His grace on thee…”
Looking back 250 years, it becomes clear that the sacred fire of liberty which burned in those hearty souls was not only a flame that couldn’t be extinguished— it was an idea which was destined to change the world.
Gene Pisasale is an historian and author based in Kennett Square. His 12 books focus mostly on the history of the Chester County/mid-Atlantic region. Gene’s latest book is Sandy Flash and the Trail of History, a beautifully illustrated walk through southeastern Pennsylvania delving into more than 300 years of the area’s heritage. His books are available on his website at www.GenePisasale.com and also on www.Amazon. com. Gene can be reached via e-mail at Gene@ GenePisasale.com.
by Gene Pisasale
Courtesy photos Common Sense by Thomas Paine.
‘Portrait of Thomas Paine’ by Laurent Dabos.
The Common Sense historical marker in Philadelphia.
A cartoon depicting ‘The World Turned Upside Down in London, England.’
‘The March to Valley Forge’ by William Trego.
‘Surrender of Lord Cornwallis’ by John Trumbull.
LINDA KAY BECK
Linda Kay Beck, age 76, of Kennett Square, passed away peacefully on Dec. 23, 2025. Born in Knoxville, Tenn., she was the beloved daughter of the late Mildred (Parrott) Brown.
Kay’s love language was food. Cooking for her family and friends brought her great joy, and no one ever left her home hungry. She was especially famous for her chicken and dumplings and her Southern cooking, which became a cherished comfort to all who tasted it. A cup of coffee was rarely far from her hand, and many conversations, stories, and moments of laughter were shared across her kitchen table with coffee always brewing.
She was an avid crafter with a strong creative spirit. Whether making wreaths and bows, working with flowers, or sewing, Kay constantly found ways to express her creativity. She was also a poet and she leaves behind a collection of her written words that reflect her
thoughtfulness and heart.
Kay had a natural way with children who were drawn to her warmth and humor. When her daughters, Yolanda and Holly, were growing up, their home was the gathering place for neighborhood kids. Kay always made sure to create a space where everyone felt welcome.
She had a special talent for turning family experiences into laughter and wisdom, always leaving listeners smiling, a little wiser, and usually asking for just one more story.
She is survived by her daughter, Holly Baron and her son, Sebastian Baron; her daughter, Yolanda Beck and her children, Jordan (Brianna) Beck, Shanice Beck, Shania Beck, Joseph Beck, and Quincy Holman; her great-grandsons, Pierce and Reese Beck, and her sister, Nancy (Richard) Sakiewicz.
Services and interment will be private.
Arrangements are being handled by Matthew Grieco of Grieco Funeral Home & Crematory of Kennett Square.
MARY FRANCES HEMRIC
Mary Frances Hemric, 89, formerly of Gap, Pa., passed away peacefully on Dec. 31, 2025.
Born on June 12, 1936, in Boonville, North Carolina, Frances was the daughter of the late John Frank Trivette and Mamie Jane (Thomas) Trivette.
She graduated from Boonville High School in 1955 and, later that year, relocated to Nottingham, where she started her family.
In the spring of 1982, Frances began working at Action Manufacturing Company in Atglen. A dedicated and loyal employee, she worked there for 36 years until health issues forced her retirement.
Frances was preceded in death by her sons, Ronald J. Hemric, Johnny W. Hemric, Donald R. Hemric, and Ernest P. Hemric. She was also preceded in death by her siblings, Margaret Stokes, Helen Phillips, Allen Trivette, John Gray Trivette, and Donald W. Trivette.
She is survived by her son, David E. Hemric of Rockvale, Tenn., her daughter, Susan D. (Church) Ondeck and her husband John, of Downingtown, eight grandchildren, Terri Johnson (Mike), Jennifer Hemric, Donald R. Hemric, Jr., Cindy Hemric, Sherry Hemric, Heather Hemric, Natasha Russell, and John W. Ondeck, as well as her brother, James C. Trivette (Charlene) of Dobson, North Carolina.
Frances enjoyed gardening, canning, and cooking, and she valued the simple joys of everyday life. She was strong-willed, resilient, and faced life with determination.
Family and friends may visit on Thursday, Jan. 8 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. and on Friday, Jan. 9 from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. at the Edward L. Collins, Jr. Funeral Home, Inc. at 86 Pine St. in Oxford. Funeral services will then be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, Jan. 9.
Interment will follow at Little Britain Church Cemetery in Peach Bottom, Pa.
Arrangements are being handled by the Edward L. Collins, Jr. Funeral Home, Inc. in Oxford. Online condolences may be made at www.elcollinsfuneralhome.com.
Whitford Charitable Classic awards $100,000 in grants to 10 Chester County nonprofits
The Whitford Charitable Classic, a fund of the Chester County Community Foundation, recently announced the distribution of $100,000 in grants to 10 local nonprofits. Each organization received a $10,000 grant to further their impactful work within the Chester County community.
The 2025 Whitford Charitable Classic, held from Sept. 19 to 21, was an exciting weekend that brought together members, supporters, and grantees of Whitford Country Club. The event featured a variety of activities, including golf, tennis, and pickleball tournaments, as well as the
much-anticipated Whitford Gala and Auction. The weekend not only highlighted the fun and camaraderie of the club but also reflected Whitford’s long-standing commitment to giving back and supporting its local community.
Taylor Young, co-chair of the Whitford Charitable Classic, expressed his gratitude and excitement about the event’s success.
“I’m incredibly proud of our outstanding membership and the dedicated committees who made this year’s event possible,” Young said. “My heartfelt thanks to everyone who participated, donated, and
helped bring it all together. I’m especially grateful to my co-chair, Bill Penney, for his support and leadership.”
Since its inception in 2011, the Whitford Classic has raised over $1.6 million and awarded grants to over 94 qualifying organizations. This year’s grantees include: Fiorenza’s Food for Friends, The Lord’s Pantry of Downingtown, Believe and Achieve Foundation, Bournelyf Special Day Camp, Shar’s Hands, Home of the Sparrow, The Parkesburg Point Youth Center, Lucky Dawg Animal Rescue, Coatesville 2nd Century Alliance, and Hope for Helm. To support the Whitford Classic and learn more about the Whitford Charitable Fund,
BARBARA ELLEN EDWARDS ADAMS
Barbara Ellen Edwards Adams, of Oxford, passed away peacefully at her home on Jan. 5, 2026. She was 82.
Born in Lincoln University, she was the daughter of the late Dora Dixon Edwards and Everett Edwards. Barbara devoted her early years to raising her family, serving as a loving and dedicated homemaker. Once her children were grown, she began a long and fulfilling career as a school bus driver for the Oxford Area School District. After many years of service, she continued her work with Kraft School Bus Company, where she later retired after 15 years of loyal dedication.
Barbara was the beloved wife of Joseph Charles Adams, Sr., with whom she shared 54 years of marriage. Together they built a life rooted in love, family, and community.
She is survived by their children, Joseph, Tracy, and Michael, as well as her many cherished grandchildren, all of Oxford.
Barbara will be remembered for her gentle spirit, her unwavering devotion to her family, and the kindness she extended to everyone she met.
Services will be private.
Arrangements are being handled by the Edward L. Collins, Jr. Funeral Home, Inc. in Oxford.
Online condolences may be made at www.elcollinsfuneralhome.com.
THEODORE CHRISTIE, JR.
Theodore (Ted) Christie, Jr., of Landenberg, died on Dec. 25, 2025 from natural causes after a brief illness. He was 91 years old. He is survived by Marjorie Christie, his wife of 56 years.
Ted was born in Bridgeport, Conn., where his father was a florist and his mother was a bookkeeper. As a teenager, he moved with his family to Cresskill, NJ. He received his bachelor of science degree from Rutgers University School of Engineering in 1958. He went on to earn a Ph.D. through graduate work at Cornell and Temple.
For many years, Ted taught mathematics and statistics at Delaware Valley University.
After retiring from teaching, Ted moved with his wife Marjorie to Landenberg, where they bought a historic house and kept beloved horses and cats. Their shared appreciation for Baroque music led them to become regulars at Brandywine Baroque concerts. The gourmet cooking skills they developed together made invitations to dinner at their home highly coveted. Ted served for over 20 years as a member of the New Garden Township Historical Commission and, for a term, as its chairman. He was master of ceremonies for the 2010 reopening of the Landenberg Bridge as well as memorable township “history nights,” and his careful monitoring of the internet marketplace for historic artifacts related to southeastern Chester County brought marvelous items to the Commission’s attention. No services or interment are planned at this time.
Arrangements are being handled by Grieco Funeral Home & Crematory of Kennett Square.
Courtesy photo
Pictured are representatives from the organizations that received grants from funds raised at the 2025 Whitford Charitable Classic.
Obituaries
Notice of Self Storage Sale
Please take notice Storage First Kennett Square located at 328 W Mulberry St Kennett Square PA 19348 intends to hold a public sale to the highest bidder of the property stored by the following tenants at the storage facility.
The sale will occur as an online auction via www.storagetreasures.com on 1/13/26 at 10:00 AM.
Estate Of Shirley Williams/ Estate Williams unit #61.
This sale may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Certain terms and conditions apply.
ESTATE NOTICE
ESTATE OF LINDA M. FLINN, DECEASED.
Late of East Nottingham Township, Chester County, PA. LETTERS of ADMINISTRATION on the above Estate have been granted to the undersigned, who request all persons having claims or demands against the estate of the decedent to make known the same and all persons indebted to the decedent to make payment without delay to SUMMER WARRICK, ADMINISTRATRIX, c/o Attorney: William J. Gallagher, Esq., 17 W. Miner St., West Chester, PA 19382, WILLIAM J. GALLAGHER, MacELREE HARVEY, LTD., 17 W. Miner St, West Chester, PA 19382
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ESTATE NOTICE
ESTATE OF RICHARD J. ZIMMERMAN, SR. a/k/a RICHARD JOHN ZIMMERMAN, SR., DECEASED. Late of West Grove Borough, Chester County, PA. LETTERS TESTAMENTARY on the above Estate have been granted to the undersigned, who request all persons having claims or demands against the estate of the decedent to make known the same and all persons indebted to the decedent to make payment without delay to RICHARD J. ZIMMERMAN, JR., EXECUTOR, 23 Starr Dr., Coatesville, PA 19330,Or to his Attorney: ANITA M. D’AMICO D’AMICO LAW, P.C., 65 S. Third St., Oxford, PA 19363 12p-24-3t
ESTATE NOTICE
ESTATE OF David R. Vining, late of Lower Oxford Township, Chester County, Deceased. Letters Testamentary on the estate of the above-named David R. Vining having been granted to the undersigned, all persons having claims or demands against the estate of the said decedent are requested to make known the same and all persons indebted to the said decedent to make payment without delay to: Michael David Vining, Executor, c/o Attorney: Winifred Moran Sebastian, Esquire, 208 E. Locust Street P.O. Box 381 Oxford, PA 19363 610-932-3838 12p-31-3t
PUBLIC NOTICE OF MUNICIPAL ACTION
Pursuant to Section 108 of the Pennsylvania Municipalities Planning Code (“MPC”), notice is hereby given that on
December 15, 2025, Council for the Borough of Oxford adopted Ordinance No. 979-2025, amending the Code of the Borough of Oxford, Chapter 22 (entitled “Subdivision and Land Development”) known as the Subdivision and Land Development Ordinance of the Borough of Oxford, by deleting and replacing the Chapter, in its entirety. The full text of Borough of Oxford Ordinance No. 979-2025 can be reviewed by members of the public at the Chester County Law Library, 201 West Market Street, West Chester, Pennsylvania and the Borough Building, located at 1 Octoraro Alley, Oxford, Pennsylvania, during regular business hours. This publication is intended to provide notification of the enactment of an Ordinance. Any appeal or action contesting the validity of Ordinance No. 9792025 based on a procedural defect shall be dismissed, with prejudice, as untimely if not filed within the thirtieth (30th) day following the second publication of this notice. This notice shall not be construed to abrogate, repeal, extend or otherwise modify the time for appeal set forth in §1002-A of the MPC, 53 P.S. §11002-A, and 42 Pa. C.S. §5571.1. This notice is filed on behalf of the Borough of Oxford, Chester County, Pennsylvania. Stacey L. Fuller, Esquire, Oxford Borough Solicitor 1p-7-1t
PUBLIC NOTICE OF MUNICIPAL ACTION
Pursuant to Section 108 of the Pennsylvania Municipalities Planning Code (“MPC”), notice is hereby given that on December 22, 2025, Council for the Borough of Oxford adopted Ordinance No. 980-2025, amending the Code of the Borough of Oxford, Chapter 27 (entitled “Zoning”) known as the Borough of Oxford Zoning Ordinance of 1986, by deleting and replacing the Chapter, in its entirety, and by amending the Oxford Borough Zoning Map. The full text of Borough of Oxford Ordinance No. 980-2025 can be reviewed by members of the public at the Chester County Law Library, 201 West Market Street, West Chester, Pennsylvania and the Borough Building, located at 1 Octoraro Alley, Oxford, Pennsylvania, during regular business hours. This publication is intended to
Intl Logistics Specialist (Chadds Ford, PA) Coord/manage intl (EU, NA) & domestic shipmts; ensure customs/Incoterms/trade-agrmt compliance. Opt trans routes/modes (air/sea/land) for cost & on-time. Neg contracts w/ carriers, forwarders & 3PLs. Forecast demand; monitor stock; coord w/ procmt to keep optimal inv. Dev/manage logistics budgets; track freight, tari s & whse fees. ID supply-chain risks (port delays, strikes) & run contingency plans. $59,842/y. Reqs: BBA deg or Intl Bus or rel/equiv foreign & 2 yrs exp in job o ered or as Logistics Exp. Mail CV: Triple R Transportation LLC, 1 Station Way Rd, Chadds Ford, PA 19317
provide notification of the enactment of an Ordinance. Any appeal or action contesting the validity of Ordinance No. 9802025 based on a procedural defect shall be dismissed, with prejudice, as untimely if not filed within the thirtieth (30th) day following the second publication of this notice. This notice shall not be construed to abrogate, repeal, extend or otherwise modify the time for appeal set forth in §1002-A of the MPC, 53 P.S. §11002-A, and 42 Pa. C.S. §5571.1. This notice is filed on behalf of the Borough of Oxford, Chester County, Pennsylvania. Stacey L. Fuller, Esquire, Oxford Borough Solicitor 1p-7-1t
NOTICE
PENN TOWNSHIP BOARD OF SUPERVISORS 2026 MEETING SCHEDULE
All Regular meetings of the Board of Supervisors will be held on the 1st Tuesday of each month unless otherwise noted below. Work Session Meetings will be held on the 3rd Tuesday of the month, January through March, and then September and October. Agenda deadline is 12 p.m. the Wednesday preceding the meeting. All meetings begin at 6 p.m. at the Township Building in the Finnen Community Room, 260 Lewis Road, West Grove, PA 19390 unless notice is posted otherwise at the township building, on the township website and/or social media. The public is invited. The Board of Supervisors of Penn Township will meet in the 2026 calendar year on the following dates for the Annual Organizational Meeting on Monday, January 5, 2026 at 5:30 p.m. to be followed by the Regular Meeting on Monday, January 5, 2026 immediately after. Regular Meetings: February 3, March 3, April 7, May 5, June 2, July 7, August 4, September 1, October 6, November 17 (due to Election Day), and December 1. Work Session Meetings are as follows: January 20, February 17, March 17, September 15, October 20, 2026.
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NOTICE
PLANNING COMMISSION
MEETING SCHEDULE 2026
All regular meetings of the Planning Commission will be held on the 4th Wednesday of each month with the exception of November and December. Agenda deadline is 12 p.m. the Thursday preceding the regularly scheduled meeting unless otherwise approved by the Planning Commission Chairman or his designee. All meetings begin at 7:00 p.m. and are held at the Township Building in the Finnen Community Room, 260 Lewis Road, West Grove, PA unless notice is posted otherwise at the township building, on the township website and social media. The public is invited. The Planning Commission will meet in the 2026 calendar year
on the following dates: January 28, February 25, March 25, April 22, May 27, June 24, July 22, August 26, September 23, October 28, November 18, and December 16, 2026. 1p-7-1t
Sheriff Sale of Real Estate
By virtue of the within mentioned writs directed to Sheriff Kevin D. Dykes, the hereindescribed real estate will be sold at public on-line auction via Bid4Assets, by accessing URL www.bid4assets.com/chestercopasheriffsales, on Thursday, January 15th, 2026 at 11AM. Notice is given to all parties in interest and claimants that the Sheriff will file with the Prothonotary and in the Sheriff’s Office, both located in the Chester County Justice Center, 201 W Market Street, West Chester, Pennsylvania, Schedules of Distribution on Tuesday, February 17th, 2026. Distribution will be made in accordance with the Schedules unless exceptions are filed in the Sheriff’s Office within ten (10) days thereafter.
Sale No. 26-1-1
Writ No. 2024-10877-RC
Debt: $463,599.16
US Bank Trust National Association, Not In Its Individual Capacity But Solely As Owner Trustee For VRMTG Asset Trust V. Amyia McCarthy
Address of Property: 403 Saginaw Road, Lincoln University, PA 19352
ALL THAT CERTAIN lot or parcel of land situated in the New London Township, County of Chester, Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, being more fully described in Deed dated August 22, 2020 and recorded in the Office of the Chester County Recorder of Deeds on October 9, 2020, in Deed Book Volume 10302 at Page 1554, as Instrument No. 202011769209.
Tax Parcel No. 71-1-43.1C
Attorney for Plaintiff: Hladik, Onorato & Federman, LLP Stephen M. Hladik Esquire (215) 855-9521
N.B. Ten percent (10%) of the purchase money must be paid at the time of the on-line sale. Payment must be made via Bid4Assets. The balance must be paid within twenty-one (21) days from the date of sale via Bid4Assets. KEVIN D. DYKES, SHERIFF 12p-24-3t
Sheriff Sale of Real Estate
By virtue of the within mentioned writs directed to Sheriff Kevin D. Dykes, the hereindescribed real estate will be sold at public on-line auction via Bid4Assets, by accessing URL
www.bid4assets.com/chestercopasheriffsales, on Thursday, January 15th, 2026 at 11AM. Notice is given to all parties in interest and claimants that the Sheriff will file with the Prothonotary and in the Sheriff’s Office, both located in the Chester County Justice Center, 201 W Market Street, West Chester, Pennsylvania, Schedules of Distribution on Tuesday, February 17th, 2026. Distribution will be made in accordance with the Schedules unless exceptions are filed in the Sheriff’s Office within ten (10) days thereafter.
Sale: 26-1-2
Writ of Execution No. 2025-03670-RC Debt: $409,867.18
Freedom Mortgage Corporation
V. Lawrence B. Wiker and Dolores D. Wiker, owner(s) of property situate in the Township of East Nottingham, Chester County, Pennsylvania
Being 100 Buttercup Drive, Oxford, PA 19363
Parcel No. 69-5-15.17
Improvements thereon: RESIDENTIAL DWELLING
Attorneys for Plaintiff: Orlans Law Group PLLC.
N.B. Ten percent (10%) of the purchase money must be paid at the time of the on-line sale. Payment must be made via Bid4Assets. The balance must be paid within twenty-one (21) days from the date of sale via Bid4Assets. KEVIN D. DYKES, SHERIFF 12p-24-3t
Sheriff Sale of Real Estate
By virtue of the within mentioned writs directed to Sheriff Kevin D. Dykes, the hereindescribed real estate will be sold at public on-line auction via Bid4Assets, by accessing URL www.bid4assets.com/chestercopasheriffsales, on Thursday, January 15th, 2026 at 11AM. Notice is given to all parties in interest and claimants that the Sheriff will file with the Prothonotary and in the Sheriff’s Office, both located in the Chester County Justice Center, 201 W Market Street, West Chester, Pennsylvania, Schedules of Distribution on Tuesday, February 17th, 2026. Distribution will be made in accordance with the Schedules unless exceptions are filed in the Sheriff’s Office within ten (10) days thereafter.
Sale No.: 26-1-13 Writ No: 2022-01723-RC Debt: $547,449.21
CASCADE FUNDING MORTGAGE TRUST HB8, Plaintiff V. MARY JANICE JEFFRIES Defendant(s)
ALL THOSE CERTAIN LOTS OR PIECES OF GROUND SITUATE IN EAST MARLBOROUGH TOWNSHIP, COUNTY OF CHESTER AND COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA ADDRESS OF PROPERTY: 458 MIMOSA CIRCLE KENNETT SQUARE, PA 19348 BEING PARCEL NUMBER:
N.B. Ten percent (10%) of the purchase money must be paid at the time of the on-line sale. Payment must be made via Bid4Assets. The balance must be paid within twenty-one (21) days from the date of sale via Bid4Assets. KEVIN D. DYKES, SHERIFF
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Sheriff Sale of Real Estate By virtue of the within mentioned writs directed to Sheriff Kevin D. Dykes, the hereindescribed real estate will be sold at public on-line auction via Bid4Assets, by accessing URL www.bid4assets.com/chestercopasheriffsales, on Thursday, January 15th, 2026 at 11AM. Notice is given to all parties in interest and claimants that the Sheriff will file with the Prothonotary and in the Sheriff’s Office, both located in the Chester County Justice Center, 201 W Market Street, West Chester, Pennsylvania, Schedules of Distribution on Tuesday, February 17th, 2026. Distribution will be made in accordance with the Schedules unless exceptions are filed in the Sheriff’s Office within ten (10) days thereafter.
Sale No.: 26-1-14
Writ No: 2025-04541-RC
Debt: $130,147.06
LAKEVIEW LOAN SERVICING, LLC, Plaintiff V. DAMON KILLIAN ELLMORE; KERRI ANN FORD ELLMORE Defendant(s)
ALL THOSE CERTAIN LOTS OR PIECES OF GROUND SITUATE IN THE BOROUGH OF PARKESBURG, CHESTER COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA.
Property Address: 140 N CHURCH STREET PARKESBURG, PA 19365
N.B. Ten percent (10%) of the purchase money must be paid at the time of the on-line sale. Payment must be made via Bid4Assets. The balance must be paid within twenty-one (21) days from the date of sale via Bid4Assets. KEVIN D. DYKES, SHERIFF 12p-24-3t Sheriff Sale of Real Estate By virtue of the within mentioned writs directed to Sheriff Kevin D. Dykes, the hereindescribed real estate will be sold at public on-line auction via Bid4Assets, by accessing URL www.bid4assets.com/chestercopasheriffsales, on Thursday, January 15th , 2026 at 11AM. Notice is given to all parties in interest and claimants that the Sheriff will file with the Prothonotary and in the Sheriff’s Office, both located in the Chester County Justice Center, 201 W Market Street, West Chester,
Now through Jan. 11, 2026
A Longwood Christmas
A Gem of a season awaits at Longwood Gardens as the world-renowned attraction celebrates the holidays with decorations as radiant as jewels and gems. This Christmas, the Gardens are transformed into a living jewel box where nature and elegance intertwine as twinkling lights dance, hues of emerald green to ruby red to bold sapphire shimmer, and every path leads to a new treasure to behold. Experience the magic of A Longwood Christmas as you never have before. A Longwood Christmas is on display through Jan. 11, 2026. Timed admission tickets required and tickets and more information can be found at www. longwoodgardens.org.
January 19
MLK CommUNITY celebration in
Kennett Square
The 25th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. celebration will take place at Kennett High School on Monday, January 19, 2026. This milestone event continues the tradition of bringing people together to reflect on Dr. King’s enduring legacy and to recognize those who carry his work forward. This year’s celebration also marks the local launch of America250, the nationwide commemoration of the 250th anniversary of the United States. By uniting the values of Dr. King’s vision of justice, peace, and beloved community with the founding ideals of the nation, the celebration will invite attendees to reflect on both the progress and the work that remains in building a more perfect union. The day will feature the 25th Annual Fellowship Breakfast, Keynote Speaker, and “Be A King” Volunteer Fair, along with community leaders, public officials, and neighbors gathering to honor Dr. King’s memory and renew the shared commitment to service. Doors open at 9 a.m. and the program begins at 10 a.m. Tickets are available at www.mlkcommunity.org.
January 22
Book discussion: How Ike Led
The Chester County History Center will present a book discussion on “How Ike Led: The Principles Behind Eisenhower’s Biggest Decisions” by Susan Eisenhower.
Pennsylvania, Schedules of Distribution on Tuesday, February 17th , 2026. Distribution will be made in accordance with the Schedules unless exceptions are filed in the Sheriff’s Office within ten (10) days thereafter.
Sale No. 26-1-23
Writ No. 2025-00559-JD Debt: $3,752,357.51
MMG INVESTMENTS VI, LLC, Plaintiff V. SIEPSER PROPERTIES, LLC, SURGICAL EYE CARE LTD, STEVEN B. SIEPSER AND SUSANNAH SMALL AKA SUSANNAH M. SMALL, Defendants Address of property: 530 Richards Road, Kennett Square, PA 19348
ALL THAT CERTAIN lot of land Situate in the Borough of Kennett Square, County of Chester and Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, shown as Lots No. 50 and 51, on Plan of Building Lots of “Kennett Heights” as recorded in the Recorder’s Office of Chester County and being bounded and described as follows:
BEGINNING at a point on the Southerly side of Richard Road as originally laid out, said point of beginning being a corner of Parcel B on the said Plan and being marked by the following 2 courses and distances, from an iron marking the intersection of the Northerly side of Richards Road (45 feet wide) with the Westerly side of Bloomfields Avenue (50 feet wide) to wit: (1) South 18 degrees 42 minutes 00 seconds East 43.10 feet (2) North 71 degrees 18 minutes 00 seconds East 50 feet to said point of beginning and along the Southerly side of Richards Road as originally laid out North 71 degrees 18 minutes 00 seconds East 50 feet to a point in a common driveway marking a corner of the lands of Donald R. and Patricia A. Farmer, thence along the same South 18 degrees 42 minutes 00 seconds East 1.90 feet to a point on the Southerly side of Richards Road as presently laid out; thence continuing along the lands of Donald R. and Patricia Farmer leaving Richards Road passing through the aforementioned common drive and passing through a garage 148.10 feet to a point in line with the lands of Marvin B. and Willa Mae Claycomb; thence along the same South 71
degrees 18 minutes 00 seconds West 50 feet to an iron pin marking a corner of Parcel B aforementioned; thence along same North 18 degrees 42 minutes 00 seconds West 148.10 feet to an iron pin on the Southerly side of Richards Road as presently laid out; thence continuing along Parcel B North 18 degrees 42 minutes 00 seconds West 1.90 feet to the first mentioned point and place of BEGINNING. A.
TOGETHER with all and singular the improvements, ways, streets, alleys, driveways, passages, waters, water-courses, rights, liberties, privileges, hereditaments and appurtenances, whatsoever unto the hereby granted premises belonging, or in any wise appertaining, and the reversions and 26-1-23 Docket No. 2025-00559-JD Debt 3,752,357.5) remainders, rents, issues, and profits thereof; and all the estate, right title, interest, property, claim and demand whatsoever of the said Grantors, as well at law as in equity, of, in, and to the same.
UPI NO.: 3-3-111
BEING the same premises which Katie Scanlon Kleckner, formerly known as Katie Scanlon by Deed dated 3/06/2023 and recorded 3/28/2023 in Chester County in Record Book 11029 Page 2158 conveyed unto Steven B. Siepser and Susannah Small, in fee
BEING known as 530 Richards Road, Kennett Square, PA 19348.
AND Address of property: 528 Brandywine Creek Road, Coatesville, PA 19320 Legal Description:
ALL THAT CERTAIN parcel of land situated in Newlin Township, Chester County, Pennsylvania being shown as Tract F3 on a Plan of Property for Buck and Doe Associates, L.P., by Henry S. Conrey, Inc., Division of Chester Valley Engineers, Paoli, Pennsylvania and being more fully described as follows: BEGINNING at a point in the title line, L.R. 15057, Brandywine Creed Road, 33 feet wide, said point being 596.00 more or less feet east of the intersection of Brandywine Creek Road, L.R. 15057 with McCorkles Road, T-389; thence from the said point of beginning, leaving Brandywine Creek Road, passing over the south side thereof
Events
The discussion takes place from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. on Thursday, Jan. 22. Details are available at mycchc.org.
January 23 and 24
Annual Mind, Body and Spirit Festival
Cecil College invites the community to start the new year with inspiration and renewal at its annual Mind, Body, and Spirit Festival, where visitors can explore a wide range of spiritual practices, holistic wellness modalities, and hands-on workshops designed to impart new skills and knowledge. The 2026 Mind, Body, and Spirit Festival will be held at Cecil College’s Elkton Station at 107 Railroad Street in Elkton on Friday, Jan. 23 from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. and Saturday, Jan. 24 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. All three floors of Elkton Station will host vendors, demonstrations, and workshops, offering visitors immersive experiences in natural wellness, nutrition, meditation, massage, reflexology, Reiki, card readings, crystal energy, and spiritual counseling.
Admission to the festival is free and open to the public. Tickets for workshops and breakout sessions are $15, and are available for purchase with cash on the day of the event.
January 25
Summer Camp Fair
Take a break from the winter doldrums and join the Delaware Museum of Nature & Science for the warmth of the 2026 Summer Camp Fair. The fair takes place from 9:30 a.m. to noon. Representatives from a variety of local camps will be on hand to tell you about their programs, and the museum’s own camp crew will have a variety of fun, hands–on science activities for you and your campers to enjoy. Onsite early registration for Delaware Museum of Nature & Science camps is open to all during the event. Take a peek at this year’s summer camps and visit www. delmns.org for more information.
January 28
True Crime on Trial
True Crime on Trial takes a deep dive into one of Chester County’s most controversial cases, utilizing
Legals/Classifieds
and along the northwest line of Tract F4, South 42 degrees 24 minutes 33 seconds West 1,058.01 to a point in the northeast line of Tract R2; thence along the northeast line of Tract 2, North 56 degrees 02 minutes 40 seconds West 713.15 feet to a point in the title line of McCorkles Road T-389 (vacated); thence along the title line of the same, the following four (4) courses and distances; (1) South 41 degrees 57 minutes 02 seconds West 260.00 feet; (2) South 38 degrees 53 minutes 39 seconds West 200.50 feet to an angle point; (3) South 20 degrees 34 minutes 55 seconds West 130.01 feet to an angle point; (4) South 62 degrees 25 minutes 27 seconds West 450.00 feet to a point marking a corner of lands of Tract R2; thence leaving McCorkles Road, crossing over the north side thereof North 73 degrees 04 minutes 49 seconds West 353.81 feet to a point in the center line of Buck Run; thence along Buck Run the following three (3) courses and distances; (1) North 26 degrees 58 minutes 14 seconds West 189.62 feet to an angle point; (2) Nmih 55 degrees 16 minutes 24 seconds West, crossing over the dividing line between East Fallowfield Township and Newlin Township 119.96 feet to an angle point; (3) Nmih 43 degrees 12 minutes 36 seconds West 181.11 feet to a point; thence still along the easternmost lines of Tract R2, leaving Buck Run North 71 degrees 41 minutes 52 seconds East 448.65 feet to a point; thence recrossing the dividing line between East Fallowfield Township and Newlin Township and still along the, easternmost line of Tract R2, North 24 degrees 19 minutes 53 seconds West 692.88 feet to a stone marking the southeast corner of lands of Howard Elvin; thence along the southeast lines of lands of Howard Elvin, North 37 degrees 16 minutes 40 seconds East 402.62 feet to a post; thence continuing along the south line of lands of Howard Elvin, North 76 degrees 27 minutes 19 seconds East, again crossing the dividing line between East Fallowfield Township and Newlin Township, 297.71 feet to a post; thence still along the southernmost lines of Howard Elvin, the following four (4) courses and distances: (1) North 73 degrees 25 minutes 22 seconds East 498.69 feet to a post; (2) South 56 degrees 08 minutes 31 seconds East
trial transcripts, newspaper reports, and evidence from the crime scene. Starting at 6 p.m. on Jan. 28, attendees can order craft beer, cocktails, and delicious bites from a special menu (food and beverages not included in price of ticket). Historians from the Chester County History Center’s staff will present the evidence and give you, the audience, a chance to reach a verdict. At the end, the historians will reveal how the case actually turned out. This True Crime on Trial event takes place at Bistro on Bridge in Phoenixville. Since 2009, Bistro on Bridge has been serving its loyal customers an inventive food menu, the finest selection of craft beer, tasty libations and a relaxed atmosphere that crafts the perfect backdrop for any special occasion in downtown Phoenixville. This program will be held on the second floor of the restaurant. Fore more information, visit mycchc.org.
January 29
Community Conversations:
New year, healthier family
Stop by the Kennett Library on Jan. 29 from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. for a community conversation including experts in family medicine and nutrition focused on simple and practical ways to help your New Year’s resolutions stick. United Way of Southern Chester County is collaborating with LCH Health and Community Services to host this community conversation panel discussion. More information is available on the Kennett Library website.
February 11
International Day of Women and Girls in Science
On Feb. 11, from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., the Delaware Museum of Nature & Science will honor the trailblazing women shaping science for International Day of Women and Girls in Science—past, present, and future. Explore stories of inspiration, creativity, and achievement in STEAM, and celebrate the women and girls who are inspiring discovery and advancing the world of nature and science. Visit www.delmns. org.
224.66 feet to a post; (3) North 89 degrees 39 minutes 05 seconds East 400.56 feet to a post; (4) North 31 degrees 10 minutes 51 seconds East 94.90 feet to a spike in the Brandywine Creek Road, 33 feet wide; thence along the title line of the same the following (4) courses and distances: (1) South 57 degrees 02 minutes 10 seconds East 57.05 feet to an angle point; (2) South 53 degrees 00 minutes 10 seconds East 232.32 feet to an angle point; (3) South 33 degrees 38 minutes I°O Seconds East 110.22 feet to an angle point; (4) South 08 degrees 54 minutes 10 seconds East 153.78 feet to an angle point; said point being west of the intersection of the west branch of the Brandywine with Buck Run; thence leaving Brandywine Creek Road, South 73 degrees 52 minutes 00 seconds East 55.44 feet to a point on the bank of Buck Run; thence generally along the south side of the Brandywine Creek the following 3 courses and distances; (1) South 61 degrees 07 minutes 00 seconds East 98.76 feet to an angle point; (2) South 74 degrees 00 minutes 00 seconds East 240.24 feet to an angle point; (3) South 83 degrees 10 minutes 00 seconds East 364.32 feet to an angle point; thence along crossing through the title line of Brandywine Creek Road, L. R. 15057, South 45 degrees 57 minutes 00 seconds East 198.50 feet to a point in the title line of L. R. 15057; thence along the title line of the same, North 83 degrees 04 minutes 34 seconds West 175.58 feet to the point of beginning.
CONTAINING 69.673 acres of land, be the same more or less.
TITLE TO SAID PREMISES IS VESTED IN Steven B. Siepser and Susannah Small by Deed from Forgason Family Limited Partnership dated 2/24/2005 and recorded 3/17/2005 in the County of Chester in Record Book 6437 Page 1850.
BEING known as 528 Brandywine Creek Road.
BEING Tax Parcel Nos. 47-9-18, 49-1-33, 49-1-55, 49-1-56.1 and 49-1-58.1.
Law Firm / Attorney: Christopher P. Schueller (PA. Id. No. 92746), BUCHANAN INGERSOLL & ROONEY PC, Two
Liberty Place, 50 S. 16th Street, Suite 3200, Philadelphia, PA 19102, (T): 215-665-8700
Attorneys for Plaintiff, MMG Investments VI, LLC
and no
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Pedaling for a purpose
Fox Rothschild’s Exton Office spins up support for CYWA
Fox Rothschild’s Exton office staff members turned up the energy with a CycleBar fundraising event, spinning their way to raise funds for the Community Youth and Women’s Alliance (CYWA).
CYWA is all about lift-
ing up the Coatesville community. They work with families of diverse backgrounds and faiths to help them gain personal responsibility, dignity and self-esteem with the goal of eliminating poverty and improving the quality of life in the community. The
Fox Rothschild team also rallied together to collect essential items, boosting support for the 18 families that are currently staying at CYWA. This effort reflects the firm’s commitment to supporting local youth through the Generation Fox initiative, which has raised more than $1 million to benefit children across the country.
Annual Mind, Body and Spirit Festival slated for Jan. 23 and 24
Cecil College invites the community to start the new year with inspiration and renewal at its annual Mind, Body, and Spirit (MBS) Festival, where visitors can explore a wide range of spiritual practices, holistic wellness modalities, and handson workshops designed to impart new skills and
knowledge. Founded in 2011, the MBS Festival has grown into a signature event that celebrates personal growth and spiritual exploration. Now entering its 14th year, the festival continues to draw hundreds of attendees with a blend of returning favorites and new opportunities for discovery.
A highlight of the event is the expansive vendor market, featuring more than 175 artisans, practitioners, and wellness-focused brands. Guests can browse an eclectic variety of crystals, organic beauty and skincare products, yoga supplies, holistic remedies, essential oils, clothing, aura photography ser-
vices, and more making it an ideal destination for thoughtful gifts or personal enrichment.
The 2026 MBS Festival will be held at Cecil College’s Elkton Station at 107 Railroad Street in Elkton on Friday, Jan. 23 from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. and Saturday, Jan. 24 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
All three floors of Elkton Station will host vendors, demonstrations, and workshops, offering visitors immersive experiences in natural wellness, nutrition, meditation, massage, reflexology, Reiki, card readings, crystal energy, and spiritual counseling.
Admission to the festival is free and open to the pub-
lic. Tickets for workshops and breakout sessions are $15, and are available for purchase with cash on the day of the event.
For more information about the MBS Festival or other lifelong learning programs at Cecil College, contact Jamie McCloskey or Tammy Rapposelli at learning4life@cecil.edu.
Cecil County Arts Council’s Annual Lego Show is on display through Jan. 30
The Cecil County Arts Council’s January exhibit will be the third Annual Lego Show, an opportunity for artists and Lego fans of all ages to showcase their work. The show will be on display through
Jan. 30 at the Arts Council gallery that is located at 135 E. Main Street in Elkton.
The Lego show features original creations made using Lego bricks (“My Own Creations,” or MOCs)
and Lego kits, as well as art in other media.
The Annual Lego Show will be open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday, and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturdays. Founded in 1977, the
Arts Council is dedicated to presenting, promoting and sustaining the arts in Cecil County. It offers free, familyfriendly gallery shows featuring regional artists, weekly and monthly arts
programming and special events focused on veterans, students, the elderly and people with disabilities. In 2025, the Arts Council awarded almost $100,000 in grants and scholarships to local artists, businesses and students.
For more information about the Annual Lego Show, visit the Arts Council’s website, follow the event on Facebook or call 410-392-5740.
