Jakob Moore took his place at the supervisors’ table on the occasion of the Penn Township reorganization meeting on Jan. 5. District Judge Matt Seavey performed the swearing in. Moore, who ran as a
Republican, was elected to the board in the November 2025 general election. He earned 1116 votes, placing him second to Vic Mantegna, who earned 1447 votes and led the ticket in the contest for two seats.
Moore replaces John Baker, who did not run for
re-election.
Moore out-polled Don Slesinski, who ran third with 1083 votes.
During the reorganization meeting, Mantegna was reelected as the chairman of the Board of Supervisors and incumbent Wm.
“Radar” O’Connell was elected vice chairman of
Comitta, Lawrence announce
major
investment
in Oxford
Area Historical Association
The Oxford Area Historical Association (OAHA) got a big boost in its effort to purchase the historic building that it calls home, thanks to state funding secured by State Sen. Carolyn Comitta and State Rep. John Lawrence. Comitta and Lawrence worked together to secure a $700,000 investment from the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development’s Local Share Account Program. OAHA will use the funds to buy the former Union School Building at 119 S. 5th Street in Oxford. The nonprofit organization has been leasing the By
building and currently has an agreement of sale for the property. The plan is to continue to develop the building into a gateway for regional tourism, welcoming visitors to the area and directing them to nearby historic sites.
Krys Sipple, the executive director of OAHA, thanked Comitta, Lawrence, and West Nottingham Township for partnering with OAHA on the project.
“This support arrives at a particularly meaningful moment for OAHA, as we celebrate our 25th anniversary and prepare to commemorate the 250th anniversary of our nation.
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the board. In the course of the regular monthly meeting which followed, the board approved Continued on Page 2A
Blacklab Breads: Word-of-mouth success in Toughkenamon
Caroline Roosevelt Contributing Writer
On a recent misty Saturday morning, I noticed the usual line outside of the door of the old Brown Derby Restaurant in Toughkenamon and hauled it to the parking lot behind the building. It was 9:57
a.m. and so I had a few minutes waiting in line with more than one dozen other customers, who were anxiously awaiting their turn to pick up their order.
The business, which displays a “Sorry We Are Closed” outside near its exterior logo throughout the week, is called Blacklab
On a recent cold January morning, the Chester County Press writer navigated his way through the vast and rugged terrain of what is commonly known as White Clay Point in Landenberg, and past the tangle of six-foot-high weeds that sprung from cracked pavement damaged by time and neglect.
It is a near empty and vast landscape, an accidental meadow that offers the apocalyptic terrain of a Cormac McCarthy novel and the sad reminder of a vanished period in New Garden Township where a business once stood that now stands frozen in time. How odd, the reporter thought, that all of this unkempt wilderness grown from the twin forces of neglect and time has evolved over time into its own invented ecosystem.
Odder still, the reporter thought, that for all of its nothingness, this property has become the most controversial patch of land in recent New Garden Township history, one that has been discussed, argued for and against and coveted by land developers who through the thicket of untamed growth have ogled at the potential for progress and profit.
Now, a Marylandbased developer known as Stonewall Capital is planning a massive, $300 million, mixed-use development there, and all indicators point to the creation of a 235-acre project that will include 622 residential units, a grocery store, a Wawa convenience store and additional retail space, with townhomes, villas, oneover-one condominiums and single-family homes that are likely to fetch between
Breads. I had stalked it for months, driving by en route to my children’s daycare center, and I wondered when I would be able to pop in and explore. I wrestled whether to try to catch them during business hours – Saturdays and Sundays only - or find a way to reach them beforehand. As it turns out, Blacklab Breads does not have a business phone number, so when I arrived there for the first time, my
$300,000 to $1 million.
As the White Clay Point mixed-use development plan continues to plow its way through approval, however, residents continue to hammer away at anyone who will listen – township supervisors, the township manager, the developer, the Chester County Press reporter and themselves – in an effort to sound the alarm that this development will destroy the beauty and persona of the township forever. The township’s identity is worth saving, they preach.
What beauty, what persona and what identity the Chester County Press reporter asked himself, can possibly be found in the rubble of this dilapidated eyesore? Is it found in a township that has lost its general store that once served as its key identity? Is it found in its last remaining historic landmarks, that
Continued on Page 3A
Despite no advertising and limited social media, Blacklab Breads continues to draw large crowds of customers every weekend.
struggle to remain vibrant and standing? Is it found in the local mushroom industry that continues to spew harmful chemicals into the atmosphere, unchecked by authorities?
* * * *
Standing in the middle of an acre of broken concrete, the Chester County Press reporter came to a conclusion that many who live near the site have struggled to admit for decades – that there is no there there in New Garden Township. Once a thriving farming community, it has been reduced to largely a drive-by municipality, nearly devoid of anything to draw the attention of those who use Route 41 as a thorofare to get to Delaware or to Kennett Square or to the gorgeous Chester County countryside.
There have been efforts to create a more lasting imprint. Over the last few years – in various starts and stops – the government of New Garden Township has sought to fully engage the municipality in the new century by creating place markers in the landscape. They continue to reinvent New Garden Township Park as a destination for families and visitors who attend events there. They have helped to convert the former Loch Nairn Golf Course into The Smedley Preserve for use as a 105acre passive-recreation preserve. In 2018, the township acquired the 137-acre property on Limestone Road formerly known as St. Anthony’s in the Hills parish day camp and are in the
Courtesy photo Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding unveiled the 2026 Pennsylvania Farm Show Butter Sculpture titled, “A Toast to Our Nation’s 250th Anniversary: Inspired by Founders. Grown by Farmers” on Jan. 8. Redding is pictured with Pennsylvania State Dairy Princess Jesslyn Risser, American Dairy Association North East CEO John Chrisman, and dairy farmer Carolyn Matthews Eaglehouse of Milky Way Farm in Chester County.
Photo by Chris Barber
Former supervisors joined the members of the newly formed Penn Township Board of Supervisors for a photo at the reorganization meeting. From left are former longtime township supervisor Curtis Mason, newly elected supervisor Jakob Moore, supervisor Carlton Snow, Judge Matt Seavey, supervisors Jay Ennis and Radar O’Connell, former supervisor John Baker, and board chairman Vic Mantegna.
Photo by Richard L. Gaw
Local News
New Oxford Borough Council members sworn in
By Betsy Brewer Brantner Contributing Writer
Oxford Borough Council held its reorganization meeting on Jan. 5 and the first order of business was to swear in Mayor Phil Harris and the four people who were elected to seats on borough council in the recent General Election.
District Judge Scott Massey swore in the mayor and each of the newly elected council members.
Harris was reelected for a second term as mayor.
Council members Robert Ketcham and Amanda Birdwell were also reelected for terms on Borough Council. The two new members elected to borough council are Melody BostonGriffin and Michael Brandt. Mary Behringer, a resident of Oxford Borough,
Penn Township...
Continued from Page 1A payment of the bill from the West Grove Fire Company, which serves the township.
Mantegna announced that there was a 10-percent increase in the costs from last year, with the bill of $253,588 for fire coverage and $253,588 for ambulance service.
In the light of the coming merger of Avondale and West Grove fire companies, Mantegna proposed that a contract between the township and the fire company be established so they can anticipate in advance how much they will pay.
Karen Versuk, the township’s director of operations, announced that residents can have their Christmas trees picked up by the township’s public works team by placing the trees in their driveway from Monday, Jan. 12 through Thursday, Jan. 15. Versuk said that, for the first time, the trees are being contributed to a farmer whose goats are consuming them.
She added that the township will have an event for Easter Bunny photos on Saturday, March 21.
Versuk also announced that the new township book is being prepared. It can be purchased, but it is also being given to new residents who move to Penn Township. She said that they have not yet settled on a publisher, but that the book will have a soft cover, and there will be 250 copies of them printed. Penn Township has run out of copies of the previous book.
During a resident dialogue following the business meeting, the topic of attracting more residents to attend or follow meetings was addressed. Versuk said she will not have the meetings recorded because of the excessive cost of production and editing.
congratulated all the people being sworn in and wished them luck.
Harris then presided over the meeting so that the members could select the leadership team for the coming year. Kathryn Cloyd was elected to serve as council president and William Fitzpatrick was selected for the role of council vice
Oxford Area Historical Association...
Continued from Page 1A
Together, these milestones underscore the importance of preserving and sharing local stories that help connect our community to the broader American experience,” Sipple said. “This investment will help ensure that our History Center can serve as a lasting resource for education, engagement, and civic pride for generations to come.”
OAHA’s History Center features 6,000 square feet of usable space, a side yard,
president. Birdwell got the nod as President Pro Tem. In other business at the meeting, borough council approved the following employee contracts:
• Two-year contract for Pauline Garcia-Allen as borough manager;
• Two-year contract for Arlene Harrison as trea-
surer and assistant borough manager;
• Two-year contract for Terri Dugan as borough codes official and zoning officer.
Oxford Borough Council also approved a resolution pertaining to appointments of certain borough employees and another pertaining to borough officers and other
annual designations, as well as a motion to authorize the advertising of 2026 meetings.
Borough council approved the appointment of Kenneth Sapp to the Oxford Area Sewer Authority Board for a five-year term and the reappointment of Sapp to the Zoning Hearing Board, also for a five-year term.
“This investment will help ensure that our History Center can serve as a lasting resource for education, engagement, and civic pride for generations to come.”
~ Krys
Sipple, the executive director of Oxford Area Historical Association
Council also approved the reappointment of Bethany Atkinson as Vacancy Board Chair (one-year term) and the reappointment of Jan Andress to the Historical Architectural Review Board (five-year term). The next regular meeting of Oxford Borough Council will take place on Monday, Jan. 26.
and a 40-car parking lot. In addition, the recently renovated building includes an accessible entrance ramp, handicapped bathrooms, a full-building HVAC system, a large generator, and the potential to expand into the basement and develop shared space on the second floor. The added space
and ample room to grow mean OAHA can house its archives on site and collaborate with more volunteers, students, community organizations, and municipal historical commissions.
“This investment will help ensure that Oxford and southern Chester County have a permanent home to
explore, preserve, and share the stories of our past,” Comitta said. “I want to thank all of the volunteers, supporters, and community partners who continue to work to keep our heritage alive at OAHA and the many historical organizations and commissions throughout our region.”
“For the past 25 years, OAHA has done remarkable work telling the story of the greater Oxford area from colonial times to the present,” said Lawrence. “With the 250th anniversary of our nation approaching, we will celebrate the key role Southern Chester County played in our nation’s founding, with several founding fathers calling our area home. This funding ensures a permanent home to share the rich heritage and history of our community, both now and for generations to come.” For more information on the OAHA, visit www.oxfordhistorical.org.
Cadets graduate from DCCC’s Municipal Police Academy
The class of 48 cadets includes new SEPTA officers, 5 Upper Darby police officers, 10 Chester County sheriff’s department officers, and more
Forty-eight new police officers graduated from Delaware County Community College’s Municipal Police Academy (MPA) on Dec. 15 during a ceremony held at Sun Valley High School in Aston.
The graduation class included nine newly hired officers for the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA), five Upper Darby Police Department officers and 10 Chester County Sheriff’s Office officers.
Among the graduating class were 12 female officers, as well as students from Neumann University. The latter took advantage of a co-op program in which Neumann students can attend the MPA in place of a semester at Neumann. The credits earned through
the MPA are applicable to Neumann’s degree program. The guest speaker was Captain Patrick Dougherty, assistant director of training, Municipal Police Officers’ Education and Training Commission.
“We are getting more and more women in our classes,” said William Davis, a retired state police trooper and the director of the DCCC MPA for the past 34 years.
The police cadet award winners were Nicholas Benoit of West Chester, who received both the Academic Award and the Quest for the Best Award, Abigail Tobelmann of Graduating cadets say the Pledge of Allegiance at the DCCC Municipal Police Academy graduation.
Continued on Page 6A
“I actually drive be er when I’m high.”
Robert Ketcham was elected to another term on council and was sworn in at the reorganization meeting.
Mayor Phil Harris was sworn in for a second term while Police Chief Sam Iacono held the Bible.
Courtesy photos Michael Brandt is sworn in as a new Oxford Borough Council member.
Melody Boston- Griffin is sworn in as a new Oxford Borough Council member as her grandmother holds the Bible.
Amanda Birdwell was sworn in for another term on Oxford Borough Council.
Blacklab Breads...
Continued from Page 1A
intention was to solve a nagging mystery of curiosity about a bakery that has been in Toughkenamon since 2023 - and also drive away with something delicious.
“Where did you hear about Blacklab?” I asked the couple in front of me.
“Word of mouth!” they replied.
“And what would be the thing to order?” I asked. Without hesitation, the couple responded, “Get the Maritozzi (fluffy brioche rolls filled with whipped cream and dusted with confectioners’ sugar), but you’ll have to order more than one
because you’ll want more.” At precisely 10:00 a.m., the two “Closed” signs disappeared from the front window, owner Barry Ciarocchi unlocked the door and we all filed in like members of a congregation, which I found profoundly apt, given that the was a poster of Chef Anthony Bourdain – or Saint Anthony, as he was depicted – that appeared next to the chalkboard menu filled with that day’s offerings.
Ciarocchi had just finished the night shift, preparing the orders for this morning.
Joined by his wife, Sandy, his son, Alexander and the Blacklab staff, he usually arrives at the bakery at mid-
night on Saturday mornings and works all night to prepare a variety of heaping menu offerings that range from breads to sweets to sandwiches, a veritable feast that customers point to on the shelves and take home with them.
While the gathering throng kept arriving, I met with Ciarocchi in the back of the bakery, where he and his crew were already preparing batches for Sunday’s opening.
“We are here Monday through Sunday deciding the menu, the type of sandwiches we’ll make and the meat and the bread that will go with them,” he said. “We will also decide how many baguettes and how much
sourdough we should make for the following weekend. We also make most everything by scratch. For instance, we roast the meat for our roast beef sandwiches on site, then shave it down and prepare the cole slaw that comes with it.
“When we make our hummus, we dry the chickpeas here, use lemons, extra virgin olive oil, and then we toast the sesame seeds to make our own tahini.”
Ciarocchi told me that he started his career as a pastry chef but got sick of the smell of melted chocolate.
“I would smell like chocolate when I got home, and it was all under my fingernails, so I started fooling around with mak-
ing bread, and then started working at a bakery as a supervisor at Baker Street in Philadelphia,” said Ciarocchi, whose previous Blacklab Breads was located in the Little Italy section of Wilmington. “Then I supervised at Metropolitan Bakery for about four years, and then I decided I wanted to do it on my own and do it the way I want to do it.
Then we found this place right after the pandemic around 2023.”
Another couple in line informed me that Black Lab has the best cannoli.
“They’re better than Termini in Philadelphia!” they said which, if you have
any knowledge of the reptation of the world-renowned bakery’s two locations in Philadelphia, is quite a compliment. Blacklab Breads secures their ricotta from Fiero M. & Sons, a cheese purveyor Wilmington, and then makes their own light and crunchy shells at the bakery. In addition to the sweets, Ciarocchi pointed out the seeded rye, sourdough, Italian loafs and the baguettes and epi baguettes that rested fresh and aromatic on the shelves, as well as bagels, tomato pies and ciabatta. “How did you come up with the name Blacklab
Continued on Page 4A
Photos by Richard L. Gaw Alexander Ciarocchi, the son of Blacklab Breads owner Barry Ciarocchi, prepares items for baking.
Blacklab customers arrive at the Toughkenamon bakery to feast on the freshly made breads waiting for them.
The cannolis at Blacklab Breads are each made by hand using ricotta from Fiero M. & Sons, a cheese purveyor in Wilmington.
Norris selected as Kennett Square Borough Council president
By Joseph Mesa Contributing Writer
Kennett Square Borough Council opened 2026 with its annual reorganization meeting on Monday, Jan. 5, swearing in newly elected and re-elected officials, selecting new council leadership, and welcoming a new full-time officer to the borough’s police department.
Matt Fetick was sworn in for another four-year term as mayor of Kennett Square. He then administered oaths of office to the newly elected members of borough council. The swearing-in ceremony included council members Elea McDonnell Feit, Hilda Matos, Amy Reigel, Juan Tafolla, and Bob Norris, who all began new terms on the seven-member council. They officially joined incumbent council members Julie Hamilton and Joel Sprick.
Once the newly elected
council members were sworn in and took their seats, the next order of business was to select new leadership for 2026. Norris was selected as council president and Sprick as vice president, according to meeting proceedings. With the leadership vote completed, the new council president started leading the business of the meeting. The agenda moved forward with reports and discussion items that set the tone for the borough’s early-year priorities, including administration, public safety, and oversight of historic properties.
A key highlight of the night was the swearing-in of officer Jonathan Kauffman as a new full-time officer with the Kennett Square Police Department. Police department personnel were in attendance to recognize Kauffman after the oath, and the ceremony was followed by a brief break for photos with fam-
ily, borough officials, and the department. Police Chief William Holdsworth introduced Kauffman and provided background on his experience, noting that Kauffman was born in Omaha, Nebraska, served with the Omaha Police Department, and is joining Kennett Square with 13 years of law enforcement experience, according to remarks made during the meeting. The department’s hiring of Kauffman had been in progress in late 2025, when a conditional offer document connected to Kauffman appeared in council meeting materials. Council’s agenda included items tied to the borough’s Historic Architecture Review Board (HARB), specifically properties at 115 N. Broad Street and 214 Center Street. During the meeting, borough staff raised concerns related to work conducted at 214 Center Street prior to receiving the necessary
Kennett Square Borough seeks candidates to fill council vacancy
At the Jan. 5 meeting, Kennett Square Borough Council announced a vacancy of one council seat following a resignation. Borough council has opened a 14-day window for qualified residents to apply to fill the vacant seat and serve on council. To serve on council, an individual must be a resident of the borough for at least one year and be 18 years of age. Individuals interested in serving on borough council can now apply to fill the vacancy. More information is available at www.kennettsq. org. All applications are due on Wednesday, Jan. 21 by 4:30 p.m. All applicants will be interviewed by the council members at a special council meeting on Tuesday, Jan. 27 at 6 p.m. After the interviews, borough council has the discretion to fill the vacancy. Any questions about the process can be directed to help@kennettsq.org.
historic approvals and permits. The issue involved exterior work, including a porch project and removal of a backyard shed that had proceeded without HARB approval, according to the discussion at the meeting. Staff noted that borough enforcement can include fines of up to $600 for violations once a citation is
Blacklab Breads...
Continued from Page 3A
Breads?” I ask Barry as I wrapped up my interview.
“It comes from the history of alchemy, in purifying elements in their search for gold,” he said. As further explanation, In alchemy, blackness means putrefaction or decomposition. Many alchemists believed that as a first step in the pathway to the philosopher’s stone, all alchemical ingredients had to be cleansed and cooked extensively to a uniform black matter.
In analytical psychology, the term became a metaphor for “the dark night of the soul, when an individual confronts the shadow within.”
Either explanation works for me, but Blacklab Breads definitely found gold with the sourdough boule, the tomato pie, and the maritozzi I brought home to my very grateful family. This is a magical mystery solved, and one bakery
issued, and, if compliance is not achieved, penalties can increase to $600 per day. No citation or notice of violation had been issued as of the meeting, according to the staff. The Jan. 5 agenda also included several annual administrative items typical of reorganization season, including resolutions related to borough appointments
such as secretary, treasurer and open records officers, emergency service providers, and professional services and fees, along with board and commission updates. A full recording of the Jan. 5 council reorganization meeting was posted on Kennett Square Borough’s website following the meeting.
that I will be working into my future weekend routine.
Blacklab Breads is located at 1470 Baltimore Pike in Toughkenamon and is open on Saturdays and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 2
p.m. Parking is at the rear of the bakery. To learn more and learn about its weekly list of baked goods, sandwiches and more, visit them on Facebook.
Jason Hogstrom of Lincoln University displays the maritozzi he was about to drive back to his family.
Oxford Educational Foundation announces the awardees of professional grants
The board of the Oxford Educational Foundation recently held a meeting and announced the awardees of professional grants— a total of $7,481.50—was awarded to six professionals. The money will be used for purchases to benefit the students in three schools of the Oxford Area School District.
The first three grants were awarded for literacy projects in the early elementary schools.
A grant awarded to Jordan Bank’s Kristen Ciaccia will be used to bring in visiting author Miranda Mittleman to engage with students in both Jordan Bank and Elk Ridge schools. Mittleman is an author from Baltimore
who writes stories that teach life lessons through the adventures of her rescue dog Weaver. After her Paws and Think! programs are presented, each classroom will receive a book.
Audra King of Elk Ridge school will see her grant used to bring in the Reading Rocks Magic Show to the students in that school. Two assemblies will be held that promote themes and characters from books by using magic.
Christine Hamilton’s students in Elk Ridge will use three sets of decodable readers through a grant from the Oxford Educational Foundation. These readers will be used by teachers and classroom volunteers
to help early readers to improve their reading fluency and accuracy using different phonics skills.
Three more grants were awarded to teachers in the school district.
Deborah Dillard of Elk Ridge School will use her grant to provide for a sensory pathway installation that helps students improve their own behavior regulation and focus as part of the school’s new Positive Behavior Program. This program was first piloted in Jordan Bank through an earlier Oxford Educational Foundation grant.
In Jordan Bank, Mollie Steigerwalt will use her grant for cross-curricular lessons in health and physi-
Christiana man arrested for possession of child pornography
Stephen Jordan, 36, of Christiana, Pa., was arrested and charged with possession and dissemination of child sexual abuse material, alleged sexual intercourse with an animal, and other related charges on Dec.17, 2025. Jordan was remanded to Chester County Prison
after failing to post $200,000 bail. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for Jan. 15. The criminal complaint indicates that, after receiving a tip, detectives utilized search warrants to track an IP address linked to a Kik account and identified Jordan as the account holder. While reviewing some of the videos associated with the account, detectives located child sexual abuse material and recordings of bestiality. The Chester County detectives is the lead investigative agency and Assistant District Attorney Michael Tomcho is the assigned prosecutor.
cal education classes for her kindergarten students. Materials such as muscles puzzles, fitness spots, and health spots will be utilized.
Penn’s Grove School’s Brittany Hassler will see ten guitars purchased for the music classes with the
grant that she received. A change in scheduling increased the number of music classes and these guitars will fit the need for this increased number of instruments.
The board and staff of the Oxford Educational Foundation extends congratulations to all the educators for seeing a need for their students and for utilizing Oxford Educational Foundation resources to fill that need. Their students will benefit from these grants.
Courtesy photo
A grant awarded to Jordan Bank’s Kristen Ciaccia will be used to bring in visiting
author Miranda Mittleman to engage with students in both Jordan Bank and Elk Ridge Schools. Mittleman is an author from Baltimore who writes stories that teach life lessons through the adventures of her rescue dog Weaver.
Continued from Page 2A
Gap, who earned the Quest for the Best and Physical Fitness Awards, Riley Allen of Phoenixville, Police Academy...
who won the Delaware County Police Chiefs’ Award, Deven Vongnarath of Downingtown, who received the Firearms Award, and Christopher DiBaptiste of West Chester, who was recognized with the Driving Award.
More than 95 percent of the municipal police officers in Delaware County and more than 75 percent of the police officers in Chester County graduate from the college’s MPA. Cadets are required to complete a rigorous 920-hour
curriculum that includes extensive instruction in firearms, physical fitness, self-defense, Homeland Security, scenario training and practical exercises. The academy is certified by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania through the
Municipal Police Officers’ Education and Training Commission. Training and coursework take place at the college’s Marple Campus.
The DCCC MPA has been serving the community since 1977 and conducts mandatory Act 180 in-service training for current municipal police officers. The next Police Academy class starts in July of 2026. Interested individuals should visit dccc.edu/mpa for more information.
He’s 6’1”, but he still looks up to me. Adopt a teen. You can’t imagine the reward.
A newly minted Trainer Borough police officer.
Female cadets celebrate at the DCCC MPA graduation.
DCCC MPA director William Davis congratulates graduating cadet Alaa Soliman.
All photos courtesy of DCCC
DCCC MPA director William Davis with award winner Nicholas Benoit of West Chester.
second stage of transforming it into open space and a passive natural park filled with trails.
And yet, to a significant portion of the more than 12,000 residents of New Garden Township, “progress” – in any shape or form – remains the ugliest word in the local vocabulary. They continue to reject the plans for White Clay Point, despite the fact that, according to projections, the development will create more than 400 new jobs – 2,800 jobs during construction - and generate $54 million annually for the township.
In their desire to return New Garden Township to “the way it used to be, before all this development ruins it,” these residents do not acknowledge that Stonewall Capital is proposing to make a $26.8 million investment in projects that will improve the township, not ruin it.
Among its lengthy punch list will be the restoration of the Rowan House and the George Taylor Barn, two historic structures that are desperately in need of repair; creating access trails from the development to New Garden Hills; rehabilitating sewer lines, and in partnership with PennDOT, developing a new site access on Sunny Dell and Reynolds roads, a realignment of Sheehan and Sharp roads, upgrades to the Sunny Dell Road and Route 41 intersection; and widening Route 41 in each direction at the development’s entrance. * * * *
The winter winds whipped through the barren acreage of White Clay Point in the sad tenor of a choir during a funeral ceremony. The Chester County Press reporter peered over ledges, trudged further away from
Route 41 into a thick growth of trees and waded into the golden brine of a meadow. Yes, he thought, White Clay Point will indeed alter the identity of New Garden Township. Yes, it will bring more people and more cars and more children who will fill area schools, but in order for any municipality to survive, its people and its leaders must accept the act of progress as an inevitable component of its future. Over the next several months, it will be crucial for the township’s key offi-
cials to host public forums for feedback. Vision held in an insular bubble of blueprints and presentations eventually leads to blindness, so in an effort to invite local residents to become stakeholders, it will be a wise and gracious gesture on behalf of the principles of Stonewall Capital to hold a boots-on-the-ground tour of the property and invite the residents of New Garden Township to join them. True and sound progress achieved through insight and inclusion, the reporter
thought as he drove away from the stark panorama of what will become White Clay Point, does not always end in calamity. Sometimes,
with the help of others, it creates place markers in the landscape. Sometimes, it invents a new There
Former U.S. Surgeon General:
Your best shot at a healthy flu season
By Jerome Adams
Winter is upon us, and for many Americans, that means company parties, gettogethers with friends and of course, gathering with extended family. These festivities are joyous. But they also inherently expose us to infectious seasonal illnesses like influenza, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and COVID-19. As vaccination rates decline nationally, that risk is greater this year than any in recent memory. That’s why, now more than ever, Americans must make informed choices to keep
themselves and their families healthy. For decades, annual vaccines have been our first and best line of defense. They are stunningly effective. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that during the 2023-2024 flu season, vaccines prevented nearly 5 million medical visits and almost 10 million cases of illness. And even though vaccinated people sometimes still contract the disease, flu vaccines lessen the risk of severe illness and potentially life-threatening complications.
Seasonal vaccination rates in the U.S. are already trou-
blingly low -- and trending downward. Last flu season was the most severe in years, yet fewer than half of children were estimated to have received an updated flu vaccine, down from 53.4 percent the year prior. About 47 percent of adults were estimated to have received the vaccine.
The U.S. also endured its highest flu-related hospitalization rates in almost 15 years last flu season, with unvaccinated people comprising two-thirds of those hospitalizations. Those who skip seasonal vaccines this year will face increased risks of serious illness, hos-
pitalization and spreading the disease to their loved ones.
Some of the decline in vaccination is due to a lack of trust in public health guidance that stems from the COVID-19 pandemic. Though COVID-19 vaccines decreased the risk of contracting COVID-19 by about 95 percent for the initial strain of the virus and by at least 40 percent for more recent variants -- shifting recommendations damaged public health officials’ credibility across the country.
Despite the fact that vaccines decreased the risk of contracting COVID-19 by
about 95 percent for the initial strain of the virus -and by at least 40 percent for more recent variants -COVID-era public health officials damaged their credibility by repeatedly shifting their recommendations.
It’s completely reasonable for Americans to have questions about vaccines.
Dr. Jerome Adams served as the 20th U.S. Surgeon General during the first Trump administration (2017-2021) and is a practicing anesthesiologist. A version of this piece originally ran in Newsweek.com.
But it’s also important to seek answers from the right people. Concerns and decisions about vaccination are best discussed with physicians, pediatricians, or local pharmacists who can provide informed and personal guidance. Many Americans have already received their updated seasonal vaccinations this year. And for those who haven’t, there’s still time. Choosing vaccination cannot guarantee complete immunity to the flu, COVID19, or RSV. No medical intervention can. But reducing the risk of illness can help families celebrate the season with more ease, comfort and togetherness.
TMACC and Equity Health Center improve health access with free ride
Getting to a doctor’s appointment, counseling session, or specialist shouldn’t be the hardest part of taking care of your health. If transportation makes it difficult to get the care you need, the Ride for Health program on the Coatesville Link bus may be the solution.
Ride for Health is a new partnership between the Transportation Management Association of Chester
County (TMACC) and the Equity Health Center that is designed specifically for people who live, work, or receive services in the Coatesville area. Individuals whose healthcare or social service provider is part of the Ride for Health Alliance network are eligible for free bus trips on the Coatesville Link to get to medical appointments and other essential services along the route.
Chester County Press
Published by - The Lieberman Family
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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“The Link is a public transportation option available to everyone,” said Tim Phelps, executive director of TMACC. “Public transportation, like the Link, enables people to get to jobs, educational opportunities, health care, food, and shopping, without having to rely on access to a car or being able to drive one. We learned through our partnership with Equity Health Center, that for some, the cost of public transportation still poses a barrier to get to the healthcare providers they need. That’s why we developed the Ride for Health program in Greater Coatesville.”
How it works
Ask your healthcare or social service provider if they participate in Ride for Health.
Request a free Coatesville Link Ride for Health bus pass for your medical appointments.
Your provider will work with TMACC to load free rides onto a reloadable bus pass using TMACC’s new electronic ticketing system, ModeShift.
The convenient pass works much like a SEPTA Key card. Simply tap the electronic fare card or download
the app on a mobile phone. Rides provided through Ride for Health are free for eligible medical trips, and personal funds can be loaded onto the same card for other rides.
Check your schedule and plan your trip at tmacc.org/ chescobus.
“Having a public transportation pass, like ModeShift, available right on your mobile phone provides greater ease and improves accessibility,” said Moira Gassenmeyer, integrated health director for the Alliance for Health Equity and Equity Health Center coordinator. “Reliable transportation means fewer missed appointments, better follow-up care, and more control over your health. Having bus service in Coatesville helps raise up the community as a whole, and TMACC’s Ride for Health initiative is helping to eliminate transportation and cost barriers to healthcare access.”
Where the link can take you
The Coatesville Link runs Monday through Saturday and connects people to many important destinations, including the following:
• Brandywine Medical Center
• Coatesville VA Medical Center
• Handi-Crafters
• Airport Village and Aldi
• West Sadsbury Commons Walmart
• The Coatesville YMCA
• Parkesburg and Coatesville Amtrak stations
• Connections to SEPTA
Route 135
Route maps and schedules can be found at tmacc.org/ chescobus.
Ride for Health is funded through federal ARPA dollars through 2026, with support from Chester County, the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, and local municipalities. Partner agencies and other organizations
that wish to provide free transportation services for their employees or clients may also purchase fares for distribution.
“Mobility should be for all. People shouldn’t have to worry about managing the cost of transportation when you’re trying to get to care,” Phelps explained. “With Ride for Health, getting to appointments is easier, more affordable, and within your control. The new program helps people stay healthy and connected to the services that matter most.
Courtesy photo
“Mobility should be for all. People shouldn’t have to worry about managing the cost of transportation when you’re trying to get to care,” said Tim Phelps, executive director of TMACC.
Guest column
Bethany Presbyterian Church has a long history—and a strong focus on the future
By Winthrop Rodgers Contributing Writer
Music carried to the rafters of the Bethany Presbyterian Church in Mendenhall as the choir practiced ahead of the service. A pre-Christmas bazaar to support a homelessness charity was set up on one side of the church.
Congregants greeted each other as old friends, while the winter light drifted in through the stained glass.
“Every church has its own ethos. They do certain things, and they do them with a spirit,” Anne Barnard Nuse, the commissioned ruling elder pastor of the church, said as she got ready ahead of the weekly service on a recent Sunday.
“The spirit here is one of generosity, of caring, of just a whole family feeling,” she added.
Fresh off its 125th anniversary last year, the church’s members feel connected to their past, but are firmly looking to the future.
Bethany was founded in 1899 after a congregation in nearby Fairville split and the Mendenhall group built a small church on what is now Kennett Pike.
The church’s corner stone, tucked away on the front behind a bush on the southeast side, is evidence of the site’s long history. In 1911,
it was received into what is now called the Presbyterian Church (USA).
Throughout the 20th century, it served as a center of the community and a place of worship for local workers. Last year, when it celebrated its big anniversary, it made getting back out into the community a major priority.
“We started a year before thinking about what we wanted to do. And one of the things that’s very important to Bethany is supporting the community and reaching out to the community and so we offered what we called ‘faith events,’” said Tess Schirmer, an elder in the congregation.
They held one a month from April until the anniversary in the fall, including a talk about the Underground Railroad in Kennett Square, events with local businesses, and seminars from congregants about various topics. In the field behind the church, they planted a tree to mark the anniversary.
“It was a busy year and then everything sort of culminated in the fall. In October, we had sort of an Oktoberfest where we had an outdoor barbecue. We had hayrides and music. It was fun,” said Schirmer. It was also a time of tran-
sition, with Nuse taking up her position. She had been a member of the congregation for fifteen years, but decided to become a minister during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“I wish I’d done it 20 years ago,” she said. “It was a crazy ride all the way through.”
Nuse was formally installed in October on the day that they formally celebrated the 125th anniversary.
“It was a way of looking back, but also looking forward,” she said. “Most of the Presbyterian churches,
we look back, [and say] things were great 30 or 40 years ago… That’s defeatist thinking in my mind; we have to look forward.”
Nowadays, that futureoriented thinking is focused largely on how to grow the congregation, which, like many churches around the country, have slowly lost members as society has changed.
Currently, Bethany has about 35 active members, with most coming on a weekly basis. Others watch services from their homes on a livestream that was set up a few years ago.
“Unfortunately, membership is declining and has declined over the years,” Schirmer said.
“That’s one of our biggest concerns, being here for our congregation and, of course, always inviting new people to come in and see us and hopefully continue to attend and eventually become a member,” she added.
On the morning that the Chester County Press visited, her husband, Bob Schirmer, was attending a nearby megachurch to get ideas for how they might structure a contemporarystyle service that could happen during the week as a way to attract new members who might feel more comfortable with something more modern.
Its sign out front is famous in the area for its humorous messages, which Schirmer said has brought in more than a few people to services.
“Our congregation is like fudge — mostly sweet,
with a few nuts,” it read that morning.
Music is also a major part of life at the church, with opera singer and teacher Elizabeth Joy Kelly serving as music director. In addition to leading the choir and playing piano during services, she organizes concerts, including an upcoming Christmas program, as a way to serve the community and attract new members.
With their 125th anniversary now part of their past, the congregants and leadership of Bethany are getting down to the hard work of the ensuring their community’s future.
“We have to look at the world as it is and address that world,” Nuse said. “I hope for outdoor services in the summertime, for people coming because they want to be here, because there’s something they find here. Whether it’s peace or love or Jesus Christ or all of the above or just a shelter from a storm. It’s here.”
Photos by Winthrop Rodgers
Bethany Presbyterian Church was founded in 1899.
The church’s corner stone, tucked away on the front behind a bush on the southeast side, is evidence of the site’s long history.
During its long history, the church has served as a center of the community and a place of worship for local workers.
Music carried to the rafters at the Bethany Presybyterian Church in Mendenhall as the choir practiced ahead of the service.
EDITH WHITESIDE HANSEN
Edith Whiteside Hansen, of Nottingham, passed away at her daughter’s home on Jan. 8, 2026. She was 95.
She was the wife of the late Harvey William Hansen, Sr. Edith graduated from Oxford Area High School, class of 1948. She was a member of the Oxford Presbyterian Church. She enjoyed writing, old yearbooks, gardening, the outdoors, holiday picnics and vacationing at the beach.
She is survived by three children, Karl Hansen (Shehnaz) of Las Vegas, NV, Mary Hansen (Curtis) of Nottingham and Frank Hansen of Los Angeles, Calif.; five grandchildren, Eric Wiley, William Scott Hansen, Brandon Hansen, Kaitlin Hansen and Mykhailo Cox; and two great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by one son, Harvey William Hansen, Jr. and four sisters, Gladys Ann Whiteside, Ella Mae Whiteside, Laura Emily Whiteside and Frances Mary Whiteside.
Funeral services will be held 11 a.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 14 at the Edward L. Collins, Jr. Funeral Home, Inc., where family and friends may visit from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m.
Interment will be in Rosebank Cemetery.
Arrangements are being handled by the Edward L. Collins, Jr. Funeral Home, Inc. in Oxford.
Online condolences may be made at www.elcollinsfuneralhome.com.
For more information or to place an ad, contact Brenda Butt at 610-869-5553 ext. 10
CHARLES JOHN CIARROCCHI, JR.
Charles “Chuck” John Ciarrocchi, Jr. passed away early Tuesday morning at his home in Wilmington while surrounded by his wife and seven children.
The family received friends on Jan. 9, 2026 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Chandler Funeral Home in Wilmington, Del. and on Saturday, January 10, 2026 from 9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. at St. Joseph on The Brandywine Church in Greenville, Del.
A Mass of Christian Burial was held at 11 a.m.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Jesuit Prison Education Network, or Archmere Academy.
Go Birds. Go Hoyas.
For a complete obituary and to offer online condolences, visit www.Chandlerfuneralhome.com.
ALLEN W. MCCANN, IV
Allen W. McCann, IV, lovingly known as Bill, passed away while surrounded by his family on Jan. 8, 2026 after a short and courageous battle with leukemia. Bill leaves behind a family who loved him and a life marked by loyalty, hard work, and quiet joy.
Bill’s greatest love was his wife who stood at the center of his world. He cherished time with his family, especially his grandchildren who bought him endless pride and happiness. There was nothing Bill loved more than being “Pop Pop.” Some of his favorite moments were simple ones – watching the ocean, boating, soaking in clear, blue water, football Sundays, enjoying a cold beer with friends, or spending hours working on cars with his masterful skill. Bill also loved visiting the local drag strip, making things go “boom,” NASCAR, the Ocean City Air Show and Old Guy Boat Days.
Bill was a man who showed his love through presence and action. He was steady, dependable, and always willing to help – and he never asked for recognition. His strength, humor, and unwavering devotion to those he loved will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
Bill is survived by his loving wife, Teresa (Tess); his children, Heather (Ryan), Jonna (Kevin), and Christopher; and his grandchildren, Bentley, Teagan, Dayton, and Delaney.
Also surviving are his sisters, Amy (Michael) and Susan; his brothers, Steven (Heather) and Jeff (Kelly); his stepmother, Maureen, along with a host of other family and friends, and his beloved “Gulls Way Crew.” Bill is also survived by his Uncle Frankie, who was more like a brother to him.
Bill was preceded in death by his mother, Dorothy Billings, his father, Allen McCann III, and his stepfather, Richard Billings.
A celebration of life will be held at a later date. As a way to honor Bill, the family encourages remembering him by enjoying the sunshine, waves, and the company of those you love.
Arrangements are being handled by the Edward L. Collins, Jr. Funeral Home, Inc. (www.elcollinsfuneralhome.com) in Oxford.
Calendar of Events
January 23
January 17
Book launch with local author Rebecca Louick
Join local author Rebecca Louick for a magical afternoon at the Kennett Library celebrating her new picture book, The You That’s Out There, which is a heartfelt story about the future self that’s always cheering you on. The event includes author reading and book signing, face painting and a “Future Self Mirror” craft, and a whimsical photo station with props from the book. Books will be available for purchase. The publisher, In Between Books, is donating $1 from every pre-order to the Child Mind Institute or The Kids Mental Health Foundation. The book launch event takes place from 2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. Spots are limited. Please register at https://ccls.libcal.com/event/15649291.
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 21
Oxford Mainstreet, Inc. community meeting Oxford Mainstreet Inc. is in the midst of a strategic planning process and the community is shaping the direction and goals for the future. OMI has already engaged hundreds of people through interviews, focus groups, and a survey. A community meeting is planned for Jan. 21 from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. in Oxford Borough Hall at 1 Octoraro Alley in Oxford. More information is available at oxfordmainstreetinc.com.
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. The discussion takes place from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. on Thursday, Jan. 22. Details are available at mycchc.org.
Cecil County Arts Council offers fine art and fine dining
Join the Cecil County Arts Council to sample some of Cecil County’s best food and support the arts at the monthly Wine and Dine for the Arts events. On the fourth Friday of January, February and March, the Arts Council will be hosting four course dinners with wine pairings at a series of Cecil County restaurants. Each event will feature a local artist exhibiting and selling their artwork. Featured artists at Wine and Dine events keep 100 percent of the profits of their sales that evening. The Jan. 23 Wine and Dine will feature painter Michael Bignell and take place at the Chesapeake Inn in Chesapeake City. Wine and Dine for the Arts tickets cost $65 and can be purchased online through our website. All Wine and Dine dinners start at 6 p.m. For more information about the 2026 Wine and Dine for the Arts dinners, and to buy tickets, visit the Arts Council’s website, follow us on Facebook or call 410-392-5740.
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 24
Science in Action Day at Longwood Gardens
There will be a day of discovery as Longwood Gardens celebrate the passionate community of experts committed to deepening the world’s understanding of plants. Through engaging presentations, interactions with Longwood Gardens’ scientists, and hands-on activities, you’ll gain insight into how Longwood’s applied science is advancing beauty, biodiversity, and sustainability. To celebrate the launch of Longwood’s new science strategy, Longwood associate vice president of science Kate Santos, Ph.D. brings together leading voices from horticulture, conservation, ecology, and agriculture. The panel explores
how these interconnected fields advance biodiversity conservation and climate resilience while also fueling the creativity, craft, and extraordinary gardens that inspire people around the world. From 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., there will be five interactive stations throughout the conservatories, designed for all ages. Science in Action Day activities are free with a Longwood Gardens admission ticket purchase. Information and tickets available at longwoodgardens.org.
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 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.
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
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ESTATE NOTICE
ESTATE OF Russell Alan Lambert, Deceased. Late of Easttown Township, Chester County
Notice is hereby given that, in the estate of the decedent set forth above, the Register of Wills has granted letters Testamentary to the persons named below. All persons having claims against said estate are requested to make known the same to them or to their attorneys and all persons indebted to said decedent are requested to make payment without delay to the Executor, Mark M. Vakil, Esq., Larkin & Vakil Attorneys and Counselors at Law. 22 W. Second Street, Media, PA 19063 610-615-1550 1p-14-3t
INVOLUNTARY TERMINATION OF PARTENAL RIGHTS TO: JOHN DOE, or any other person claiming paternity In Re: X.M.R. No. 2025-A9106 A Petition has been filed by the
the Bucks County Children and Youth Social Services Agency at 215-348-6900 to obtain a copy of the petition prior to the hearing.
STACIE M. TEPE, ESQ., Attorney for Petitioner, Bucks County Law Department, 55 E. Court Street, Doylestown, PA 18901 215-340-8039
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ESTATE NOTICE
Letters Testamentary have been granted in the Estate of ANNE E. REEDER, late of Downingtown Borough. All persons having claims or demands on the Estate are requested to make them known, and all persons indebted to the said decedent are requested to make payment without delay.
JOSEPH G. BORST, c/o The Law Firm of Barry S. Rabin, 797 E. Lancaster Avenue Suite 13, Downingtown PA 19335, Personal Representative. Barry S. Rabin, 797 E. Lancaster Avenue Suite 13, Downingtown PA 19335, Attorney.
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PUBLIC NOTICE
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN
The New London Township Planning Commission will meet January 14th, 2026 at 7:00PM to hold their Organization Meeting, with the Regular Planning Commission Meeting to begin immediately following, in the New London Township Building located at 902 State Rd. New London, PA 19390. If you are a person with a disability and require special accommodation to participate in the meeting, please contact the Township at 610-869-8658 no later than 3 working days prior to the meeting
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PUBLIC NOTICE
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN
Test. Applicant Requirements:
• Be twenty-one (21) years of age at the time of the test
• Possess a High School Diploma or GED Certificate
• Be Act 120 Certified or eligible for Certification-before receiving a conditional offer of employment
• Be a citizen of the United States
• Possess a valid driver’s license
• Comply with any other qualifications as set forth in the Civil Service Rules of the Borough of Oxford.
TESTING LOCATIONS:
Physical Agility Test: Oxford Area School District Athletic Complex, 736 Garfield Street
• Begins at 8:00am
Written Test: TO BE DETERMINED
• Begins at the conclusion of the Physical agility Test. Application Packets are available at the Borough of Oxford Police Headquarters located at 57 North Fourth Street between the hours of 8:00am and 4:00pm Monday through Friday. Completed applications must be received at the Oxford Borough Police Headquarters no later than Thursday, April 9, 2026, at 4:00pm. An application fee of $50.00, payable by cash or check (payable to the Oxford Borough), will be due with the application. The Borough of Oxford is an Equal Opportunity Employer and provides equal employment opportunities to qualified persons without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, gender, age, veteran status, marital status, or nonjob related physical or mental handicap or disability. Borough of Oxford Civil Service Commission.
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Bucks County Children and Youth Social Services Agency to Involuntarily Terminate your Parental Rights with respect to child, X.M.R., a male child born on May 12, 2009, in Chester County to mother L. Burgos. A Hearing on the Petition has been fixed for 9:30 A.M. on JANUARY 29, 2026, in Courtroom 260 of the Bucks County Justice Center, 100 N. Main Street, Doylestown, Pennsylvania. You are warned that even if you fail to appear at the scheduled hearing, the hearing will go on without you and your rights to your child may be ended by the court without your being present. Should you wish to defend the Petition, you should take this Notice to your lawyer at once. If you do not have a lawyer or cannot afford one, call the Bucks County Bar Association at 215-348-9413 or Legal Aid of Southeastern Pennsylvania at 215-340-1818. Please contact Sygera Hardimon, your caseworker from
The New London Township Board of Supervisors with meet on the following dates at 6:00PM in calendar year 2026; January 21st; February 18th; March 18th; April 15th; May 20th; June 17th; July 15th; August 19th; September 16th; October 21st; and November 18th, to hold their Regular Board of Supervisors Work Meeting in the New London Township Building located at 902 State Rd. New London, PA 19390. If you are a person with a disability and require special accommodation to participate in the meeting, please contact the Township at 610-869-8658 no later than 3 working days prior to the meeting
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Classifieds
Borough of Oxford Civil Service Commission
Notice of Examination
Entry level Police Officer
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Borough of Oxford Civil Service Commission will administer an entry level police officer examination for the purpose of establishing an Eligibility List on Saturday, April 18, 2026, beginning at 8am. The examination will include both a Physical Agility and Written Test. Applicants are required to pass the Physical Agility test in order to be eligible for the Written
AUTO AUCTION
2009 Honda Civic, VIN: 1HGFA16949l019635, will be auctioned off January 19th @ 8:00 AM at A-1 Towing, Recovery, & Trucking, 2001 Limestone Rd Cochranville, PA 19330
Miscellaneous:
We buy 8,000 cars a week. Sell your old, busted or junk car with no hoops, haggles or headaches. Sell your car to Peddle. Easy three step process. Instant offer. Free pickup. Fast payment. Call 1-833-926-4725
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Chester County Summer Adventures Camp and Activities Fair set for Jan. 22
Summer may still feel far away, but it’s never too early to start planning. Families are invited to get a head start on summer plans on Thursday, Jan. 22 at the Chester County Summer Adventures Camp and Activities Fair.
The event will be held at the Chester County Intermediate Unit (CCIU), located at 455 Boot Road in Downingtown. Admission is free. The event will take place from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
The Summer Adventures Camp and Activities Fair offers a one-stop shop to discover a wide range of programs, camps, and local organizations. Students in grades K-12 and their
families can directly connect with representatives, ask questions, and receive information to help plan an engaging and memorable summer. Past fairs have featured summer schools and tutoring programs along with camps that focus on theater, athletics, arts and crafts, outdoor adventures, and much more.
“This event brings families together with the people and programs that help make summer meaningful for students of all ages,” said Jay Della Ragione, special events coordinator for the CCIU. “From enrichment opportunities to creative and recreational experi-
ences, the Chester County Summer Adventures Camp and Activities Fair gives families a chance to explore what’s available in their community and start building a summer that fits their child’s interests and goals.”
The Summer Adventures Camp and Activities Fair is sponsored by CCRES Educational and Behavioral Health Services. In the event of inclement weather, the snow date is scheduled for Thursday, Jan. 29.
For details, please visit www.cciu.org/summeradventures or contact Jay Della Ragione at summercampfair@cciu.org.
Year-long reforestation effort at Natural Lands’ preserves
Natural Lands celebrated a banner year for tree planting in 2025. The non-profit conservation organization planted 22,500 trees across 75 acres at four of its nature preserves. The seedlings are all native species. As they mature, the trees will help reduce erosion, filter and recharge groundwater, clean and cool the air, sequester carbon, and provide habitat for insects and wildlife.
The large-scale plantings transformed meadows, former farm fields, and stream corridors at Diabase Farm Preserve (New Hope, Bucks County), Peacedale Preserve in Landenberg,
Sadsbury Woods Preserve in Coatesville, and Stroud Preserve in West Chester. These preserves are free and open to the public year-round.
In addition, Natural Lands hosted several volunteer and member tree planting events where community members planted more than 1,000 trees at ChesLen in Coatesville and Stroud Preserves.
The seedlings planted include red maple, silver maple, hornbeam, redbud, tuliptree, black gum, sycamore, white oak, swamp white oak, pin oak, chestnut oak, elderberry, and flowering dogwood. Planted at a
density of about 300 trees per acre, the seedlings are protected from deer by fivefoot-tall tree shelters that photo-degrade over time. The trees and shrubs were planted in 12-foot rows, wide enough to allow preserve stewardship staff to mow between them, which will reduce competition from other vegetation until the seedlings have matured.
“It’s really quite remarkable how much of a positive impact planting trees has on water quality,” said Gary Gimbert, vice president of stewardship for Natural Lands. “As these species mature, their roots allow
water to penetrate deep into the ground, which reduces flooding and recharges underground aquifers. Alongside creeks, the tree roots stabilize the soil to reduce erosion.”
In addition to improving water quality, the planting projects will re-establish forest cover and improve wildlife habitat. In particular, woodlands are essential for migratory songbirds— such as Scarlet Tanager and Wood Thrush—that rely on the dense forest for food and protection from the weather and predators.
When Europeans first explored Pennsylvania, trees
covered 90 percent of the territory. Though the Native Americans who had lived in the region for thousands of years did clear some land for hunting and agriculture, famed naturalist John Bartram still found forests so thick it was “as if the sun had never shown on the ground since the creation.”
But by 1850, millions of acres had been cleared for farming, timber, and firewood. Natural Lands is committed to restoring habitat on their nature preserves, which cover more than 23,000 acres of land across Pennsylvania and New
Jersey. Planting seedlings that will someday become thriving forests is part of this stewardship ethos. Funding for these projects were provided by Conservancy Grant Program, the Commissioners of Chester County, the E. Kneale Dockstader Foundation, the generous donors to Natural Lands’ Preserve Restoration Fund, the Growing Greener Grant provided by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service, and the Environmental Quality Incentives Program.
EDUCATION GUIDE EDUCATION GUIDE WINTER
Unlock your child’s potential with a Tome education!
Passion for Learning ● Character at its Core ● Tight Knit Community
We understand that a quality education extends well beyond acquiring basic skills and foundational knowledge. At Tome, we instill a love of learning in every student, where self-discovery and critical thinking are key ingredients for long-term growth and success. We cultivate a student environment where children feel safe, and they are treated with kindness and respect. We instill a sense of accomplishment that can only be achieved through dedication, responsibility, and disciplined effort. And finally, we partner with our parent community to reinforce our core values and foster a caring, personalized approach.
These characteristics are the hallmark of a Tome education. Tome is proud of its long-standing tradition of academic and personal excellence, dating back to 1889, when Jacob Tome founded the school. Today, the school enrolls over 430 students from K-12 at the conveniently located campus in North East, Maryland (only 10 miles from PA and DE). High academic standards, a challenging curriculum, and a dedicated, caring faculty are the backbone of our rigorous academic program.
Staying true to Jacob Tome’s mission, Tome delivers a quality education at an affordable cost to students, easily accessible to students in the tri-state area. Tome keeps tuition lower than other independent schools, partly because of the substantial funding from The Jacob Tome Institute.
Ready to get started or looking for a change?
Call Priscilla for a brief conversation @ 410-287-2050 or email p.joyce@tomeschool.org for a personal tour. You will see firsthand the benefits of a Tome education.
EDUCATION GUIDE EDUCATION GUIDE WINTER
CECIL COLLEGE
Located in Cecil County, Md., Cecil College continues to be a catalyst for the region’s economic growth and enhanced quality of life. The College has a diverse student population, with approximately 2,200 credit students and 2,400 non-credit students, and includes campuses in North East and Elkton. Cecil offers 70+ associate degrees, certificate programs, and non-credit classes. New programs include associate degrees in Sports Management, Bioproduction and Skilled Trades as well as certification opportunities, including an Artificial Intelligence Certificate, Manufacturing Technician Certificate and a Data Science Certificate. Classes are taught by qualified faculty in a variety of formats. The College provides day and evening classes. In addition to numerous onsite and hybrid programs, the College offers fully online degree opportunities in General Studies (Associate of Arts), Cybersecurity (Associate of Applied Science) and Transportation Logistics and Management (Associate of Applied Science). Multiple certificates are also offered in fully online formats.
Additionally, the College has formalized articulation agreements with numerous public and private four-year institutions throughout Maryland and the United States to expedite the transfer process. Visit cecil. edu/transfer for a complete list of transfer opportunities. Students can also opt to take non-credit courses to re-skill or upskill their vocational expertise or expand their horizons. Certifications and programs are available for various healthcare careers and skilled trades, with new programs including Marine Service Technology and Diesel Technology. Additionally, students can earn their Commercial Driver’s License, computer certifications in several areas, and/ or business and management training certificates through
Cecil College’s Continuing Education and Workforce Development division. Other noteworthy distinctions include the designation as a National Center of Academic Excellence (CAE) in Cyber Defense Education by the National Security Agency (NSA) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
Cecil College is a Maryland Junior College Athletic Conference member in all sports and competes in the National Junior College Athletic Association. The College fields men’s baseball, basketball, and soccer; and women’s basketball, softball, and volleyball.
For more information, visit www.cecil.edu or contact Admissions at 410-287-1006.
Numerous challenges can interfere with a child’s ability to succeed in a large, traditional classroom.
Centreville Layton School embraces these challenges and works to transform them into opportunities for success. Students are supported through a curriculum that emphasizes problem-solving and critical thinking. Through targeted intervention and the strengthening of effective learning strategies,
Centreville Layton School empowers students to reach their full potential.
Centreville Layton School serves a diverse population of learners with a wide range of learning styles and needs. Students may experience challenges in one or more areas, including dyslexia, language processing difficulties, reading, writing, spelling, and math challenges; fine and gross motor skill
delays; executive functioning differences; social skills; anxiety; receptive and expressive language disorders; peer relationships; school-related apprehension; and attention-related challenges such as ADHD.
To learn more about Centreville Layton School’s programs, including upcoming Virtual Open House dates, please visit centrevillelayton.org.
Centreville Layton School offers a robust educational experience for students who learn differently. Our program identifies academic and social needs of individuals and provides a curriculum that focuses on problem solving and critical thinking. Through intervention and strengthening learning strategies, the school empowers each student to reach his or her potential.
