Avon Grove School District set to appoint new superintendent
The Avon Grove School Board planned a special meeting for Tuesday, April 15 where they were set to vote to appoint Dr. Scott DeShong as the new superintendent of schools.
The superintendent search process was facilitated by the Chester County Intermediate Unit, and the district received more than 40 applications from
a diverse pool of candidates that included 33 superintendents as well as assistant superintendents and lifelong educators. Applications were received from candidates from 16 states.
DeShong has served as an assistant superintendent of Avon Grove School District since March of 2022, and before that he was a prin-
cipal of Avon Grove High School. He successfully led the transition from the former high school building to the new, state-of-the-art high school facility, and he was very involved in the development of the educational model for the high school.
District officials touted DeShong’s exemplary leadership for several other
important initiatives in Avon Grove, as well as his unique, communitycentered perspective that comes from being a resident of the school district, as reasons why he will be a good fit for the new role.
As an assistant superintendent, DeShong spearheaded several transformative initiatives, including leading the middle school transi-
Climate forum details Pennsylvania’s energy grids, initiatives and incentives
By Richard L. Gaw Staff Writer
Throughout the Industrial Revolution and beyond, Pennsylvania became one of the bedrocks of commerce in the U.S. – from agriculture to technology to manufacturing. In the process, it also became one of our nation’s unhealthiest states – with some of that cost of neglect now passed onto the state’s residents - but a meeting held this week unveiled that the problem can be fixable through a series
Kennett School Board places bans on cell phones
By Chris Barber Contributing Writer
The Kennett Consolidated School District Board unanimously approved guidelines that would prohibit student use of cell phones in the buildings and classrooms in varying degrees by grades.
The district administration, committees of the board, and stakeholders have been studying and dis-
cussing the issue since it was introduced in August of 2024. At that time, technology director Dan Maguire and assistant superintendent Michael Barber took the reins of the project and promised to report back with recommendations.
Maguire said they spoke with 998 people, and he and thanked Director of Communications Lisa Palmarini for collating the results.
At their report to the board, Maguire and Barber presented the guidelines that address the use of electronic personal devices at three levels: elementary school, middle school and high school.
First, they defined them. “A personal device is any electronic device that is not district-provided, including, but not limited to a smartphone, smartwatch, tablet,
tion from a 7-8 grade configuration to a grade 6-8 configuration, leading the Early Learning Lab at Avon Grove High School, which will welcome 15 four-yearold learners at the start of the 2025-26 school year, and playing a key role in aligning the district’s programs with the Profile of a Future Ready Avon Grove
By Gabbie Burton Contributing Writer
While rain was enough to put off protest plans, it was not enough to put out the fire that inspired the protest in the first place.
A self-described “ad hoc” group of the Kennett Area Democrats postponed their Kennett Square protest against the Trump administration on April 11 due to inclement weather and instead met at the Kennett Township Building to make posters for their next protests, which are scheduled for April 18, May 2 and May 16 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the corners of State and Union streets in Kennett Square Borough and in East Marlborough Township at the corner of routes 926 and 82.
By Richard L. Gaw Staff Writer
Kennett Community Grocer (KCG) Board President Edie Burkey said at the organization’s annual board meeting on April 10 that it continues its efforts to find a permanent location for a store.
Burkey began the meeting, however, by addressing a more immediate issue: the recent actions of the Trump administration to dismantle federal agencies like the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), and the potential impact these cuts may have on consumers being assured that their food is safe.
“Everybody in this room wants to buy foods and food products, all grown locally,” she said to an audience of 25 at the Kennett Senior Center. “I think that was important all along, but since January that has taken a big step forward in importance. We do not know what is going to happen to our global food supply, and globally produced foods could become very expensive. The USDA and the CDC – two entities that protect us from disease and from problems in our food supply – have been hollowed out.
“Those at the CDC, who are responsible for tracking infectious diseases, are gone, and the USDA will dismantle the Washington, D.C. office completely
Courtesy photo Dr. Scott DeShong
Photo by Richard L. Gaw
Wes Bowers displays a sign opposing the Trump administration’s proposed enactment of tariffs.
Photo by Richard L. Gaw
State Rep. Christina Sappey hosted a climate change forum on April 14 that invited three environmental experts to discuss how the commonwealth is answering the need to improve energy efficiency and reduce carbon emissions.
dual enrollment programming and teacher education programs.
Climate...
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In a climate forum held by State Rep. Christina Sappey at the Kennett Township Building on April 14, three Pennsylvania environmental experts shared their insights on the issue of energy mismanagement, and the ways the Commonwealth is attempting to move forward with a new grant program and six bills that if passed, will fully aim to reduce carbon emissions in the state.
“Obviously, our electric rates are going up,” Sappey said at the start of the meeting. “We’re seeing that in our bills over the past years, and we’re about to get another big increase this summer, and the explanation for most of us is pretty murky. All we’re seeing are huge poles going up on most of the roads we travel. It has become very clear that a lot of us don’t understand where our electricity and our energy is coming from.
“We don’t have a strong understanding of why it costs so much and why our bills are going up, and we don’t have a strong understanding between those things and climate change.”
Ineffective energy management leading to higher bills
Robert Routh, the policy director for Pennsylvania Climate and Energy with the National Resources Defense Council, discussed the errors being made by the Valley Forge-based PJM, a regional transmission organization that coordinates the movement of wholesale electricity in all or parts of 13 states, including Pennsylvania.
During his tenure as high school principal, DeShong also successfully integrated professional learning communities with all faculty members to improve academic outcomes and increase the number of students participating in Advanced Placement courses.
“Dr. DeShong’s qualifications and clear vision to lead Avon Grove School
“PJM has an effect on everything,” Routh began.
“[It affects] the electric bill you’re paying. It affects our ability to get clean energy and any new generating resources on the grid. It affects the speed at which our ongoing energy transition takes place. It affects transmission lines and where they go and who pays for them and therefore, it affects our ability to keep the lights on.”
Routh said that PJM has tremendous power to influence energy policies in the region and, as a result, places them at odds with the energy goals of the states within its grid. To complicate matters of energy efficiency, Routh said that PJM is not currently allowing new power plants to request connection to its interconnection grid. Meanwhile in recent years, widespread gas fire plants in PJM’s grid were failing in large numbers and gas leaks at these plants were leading to severe blackouts, and in 2020, PJM’s interconnection queue stopped working. To exacerbate the capacity shortage, PJM did not account for these failures in its grids, giving off the false sense of abundant energy as it approached its capacity auction in July of 2024.
If PJM were to have permitted new energy sources to join its grid, it “could significantly improve reliability and affordability,” said Routh, who added that the resulting rate hike passed on to consumers was “preventable and foreseeable.”
In advance of PJM’s next capacity auction scheduled for this July – one that could result in over $20 billion in unnecessary energy costs for 13 million Pennsylvanians and 65 million consum-
District will prove beneficial for the future of our district,” said Dr. Dorothy Linn, president of the Avon Grove School Board. “We look forward to great things happening for all students.
Under Dr. DeShong’s astute guidance, the school district will thrive, grow, and provide many opportunities for our students, staff, families, and community.”
DeShong is expected to
ers who live on the grid – Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro filed a complaint with the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) against PJM last December, criticizing flaws in the energy provider’s capacity auction design that threaten to impose significant new price increases.
“[Shapiro told FERC] that this market was broken, and that [PJM] is not incentivizing new energy supplies to come online in a timely manner,” Routh said. “As a result, Pennsylvanians are being hit by astronomically high prices and receiving no commensurate public benefits, whatsoever.”
On Jan. 28, 2025, Shapiro announced that he reached an agreement with PJM that resolved his recent lawsuit and will save consumers over $21 billion in energy costs over the next two years. Shapiro worked with PJM to significantly lower the capacity auction price cap – from over $500/ Megawatt-Day to $325/ MW-Day – averting a runaway auction price that would have unnecessarily increased energy bills.
“This is a temporary solution to stop the bleeding, get the patient to the hospital and spend the next two years fixing PJM’s structural underlying problems with its capacity market design,” Routh said of the agreement. “[PJM is] feeling a lot of political pressure, and no grid regulator wants to see a blackout on their watch.”
RISE PA: $396 million in grants to reduce industrial emissions
The forum served to provide a connection between Pennsylvania’s distribution of energy with its commitment to improving its climate. Louie Krak, infrastructure implementation coordinator for the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, discussed a new grant program at the DEP called RISE PA (Reducing Industrial Sector Emissions in Pennsylvania). It is a $396 million statewide
assume his duties as superintendent of the Avon Grove School District on May 1.
“I am deeply honored to be selected as the next superintendent of the Avon Grove School District,” said DeShong in a statement. “As both a district employee and a proud resident, I am excited to expand my commitment to serving our students, staff, families, and the entire school
community.”
He continued, “In Avon Grove, we are a ‘team of teams’—from the school board, district leaders, educators, and support staff, to coaches, families, and community members. Our shared commitment to communication, collaboration, and community will be the foundation of our work. It is important that our students and school community
Department of Environmental Protection. industrial decarbonization grant program that aims to reduce greenhouse gas and pollutant emissions from the state by funding large-, medium- and small-scale projects at industrial facilities across the Commonwealth.
Eligible applicants for RISE PA grants include the following sectors: manufacturing, industrial, coal mining and natural gas and oil production and distribution. Grants will be awarded for projects related to energy efficiency, electrification, process emissions reduction, adding low-carbon fuels and on-site renewable energy such as solar and wind, and carbon capture utilization and storage.
In addition to those awards, RISE PA will offer bonuses and incentive funding to companies who meet additional criteria. The Pa. DEP is now accepting applications for funding for mediumand large-scale projects through Aug. 29 and will begin accepting applications for small-scale projects in May.
“It’s truly a transformational amount of funding to address climate change and it’s a huge investment in Pennsylvania’s industries,” Krak said. “RISE PA
members feel connected, accepted, and valued.
“By prioritizing collaboration and using data-driven, communityinformed decisions, we will strive to improve outcomes for every student and ensure that they are future ready. I’m excited to begin this journey together as we empower and inspire the next generation of leaders and innovators.”
offers an opportunity for Pennsylvania businesses to get funding for projects that will directly reduce their electricity usage and enable them to generate their own power by helping to find onsite renewable energy projects, and it may enable some companies to put excess electricity back on the grid.
“I see this program as a very poetic opportunity for Pennsylvania,” Krak added. “Our commonwealth helped to power the Industrial Revolution, and that came at a great cost to our environment. Now we have been given the opportunity to lead the entire country in the Industrial Decarbonization movement.”
Lightning Plan
Flora Cardoni, the deputy director for Penn Environment, discussed a comprehensive energy initiative recently introduced by Gov. Shapiro called the Lightning Plan that aims to make energy more affordable and accessible, and includes key components such as the Pennsylvania Climate Emissions Reduction Act (PACER), which sets caps on carbon emissions from power plants in the state.
Other bills currently up for vote in the state legislature include the Pennsylvania Reliable Energy Sustainability Standard (PRESS); the Reliable Energy Siting and Electric Transition Regulation (RESET); the Pennsylvania
Economic Development for a Growing Economy (EDGE); a community energy bill; and a bill designed to improve Act 129, that sets standards for energy efficiency and lowering costs. Rep. Sappey supports all of these bills. The Lightning Plan builds on the energy plan unveiled by Shapiro in March of 2024, which is projected to create nearly 15,000 energy jobs, lower utility bills for households, address carbon pollution and potentially save Pennsylvania households $664 million by 2040 and generate $11.4 billion in clean, reliable energy investments.
“We are facing a few crises at the same time - the problem with PJM both from overvaluing the reliability of gas plants and not approving new utilities renewable projects, meaning that all of our utility bills are rising,” Cardoni said. “At the same time, the climate crisis is threatening communities here in Chester County with floods and droughts.
“The science is clear: that if we want to tackle air pollution and climate change and help keep our electricity bills low, it is critical that Pennsylvania move away from dirty polluting energy sources like coal and fracked gas, and toward a cleaner energy future with alternatives like wind and solar and investing in energy efficiency.”
To contact Staff Writer Richard L. Gaw, email rgaw@chestercounty.com.
Photos by Richard L. Gaw Flora Cardoni, the deputy director for Penn Environment.
Louie Krak, infrastructure implementation coordinator for the Pennsylvania
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Victoria Wiedwald, one of the organizers of the group, said that about 60 people had signed up to participate in the protest, and about 20 of them met to make posters. She shared that the group is planning more protests for May and looking to grow in numbers and support.
“I don't know how long we'll do it, but we'll do it as long as we need to,” Wiedwald said. “We want everyone to participate.”
While the group is protesting the current administration’s activities at large, individuals each had their own grievances that inspired them to attend the event. Posters with messages about protecting democracy, protesting DOGE cuts, immigration concerns and women’s rights were plentiful in the meeting room.
Kennett School Board...
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headphones or earbuds, and laptop.”
They stated their purpose was to “…establish clear expectations for the responsible use of cell phones and personal devices by both students and staff in order to minimize distractions, enhance learning opportunities, and ensure a safe and productive educational environment.”
The guidelines for elementary students, grades K-5: Cell phone use is not allowed between arrival and dismissal, including on the
Joanne Kalmbach attended with three friends who all originally planned on participating in the protest and shared that prior to now she had little experience in protests but felt that she had to get involved.
Kalmbach’s friend Andi Healy shared that her main motivator in joining the group has been to protest the current administration’s approach to immigration.
“To use vulnerable people to instigate fear in our country resembles tactics used in the Nazi regime,”
Healy said. “I’m aghast history is repeating itself.”
Healy’s activism led her to start a group called Brave Women to Women, that invites local women to gather weekly and voice their political frustrations and concerns in order to avoid feelings of isolation.
Both Healy and Kalmbach plan on attending this week’s protest.
school bus.
The guidelines for middle school students, grades 6-8: Cell phone and personal device use in the classroom is strictly prohibited, except in extenuating circumstances requiring communication with a parent or guardian, with explicit authorization from an administrator or classroom teacher.
The guidelines for high school students, grades 9-12, are the following:
Classroom use: Cell phone and personal device usage in the classroom is strictly prohibited unless explicitly authorized by the classroom teacher. When allowed, devices must be
While some in the group are new to protest and political activism, others are not. Marian Hay, another organizer of the group, said that she protested against the Vietnam War as a teenager, but sees the current political landscape as potentially even more dire.
“This is greater than Vietnam because [the opposition now] is about saving our democracy,” she said.
Hay emphasized the importance of protesting in getting their message across and hopes to see change come from their action.
“This is not just a West Chester, Philly or New York thing, because there are a lot of people who are protesting all over,” she said. “A crowd will always show up, and I think the message needs to get across that protests are not a one-and-done
used solely for educational purposes and as directed by the teacher.
a. Permitted prior to the first bell and after the last bell.
b. Personal devices may be used in the cafeteria, hallways, library or study halls, or during designated free periods, provided they do not disrupt the educational environment.
c. Prohibited Use: Personal devices may not be used in any area where privacy is expected and their use in restrooms, locker rooms, etc. is strictly prohibited.
At the start of the board meeting, Monica Strauser,
thing. We need to keep the pressure on so the administration can see.”
Some in the group said that their protests and collective activism will lead to tangible change.
who served on one of the committees, said she is in favor of the guideline and finds them “balanced and effective.”
Maguire said the guidelines they came up with are headed for the student handbook, but remain to be studied and possibly altered in the future before they are approved as a formal board policy.
“It’s just begun,” he said of the process of formulating a policy.
Board member LaToya Myers said she found some of the wording confusing and expressed concern that the greater issue than the phones themselves is
“The goal is for those who strongly disagree with the authoritarian pathway to keep coming out and protesting and that it will have an impact on midterm elections,” Hay said. “Our
the students’ response to and attitude toward social media.
Board member Ethan Cramer said he did not want guidelines adopted as policy until they are studied further.
A law signed last July by Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro set aside $100 million to be used by schools to purchase secure, lockable smartphone bags for students to hold their mobile devices, according to a report by Fox Rothschild publications.
In other business, Board member and treasurer Mike Finnegan presented the proposed final budget for
goal is to put it in people’s faces.”
To contact Contributing Writer Gabbie
email gburton@chestercounty.com.
2025-26 that totals $107 million. This represents an increase of 4 percent over the 2024-25 budget. Four percent is the maximum increase that is allowed by the state’s Act 1 index unless there is a referendum.
The average taxpayer who last year paid $6,168 in taxes will see a hike of $246, Finnegan said. He attributed the increase mainly to the addition of two special education teachers and the loss of some income from the state budget, house assessment appeals and the anticipated approval of a one-percent earned income tax in East Marlborough Township.
Photo by Richard L. Gaw
Liz Gallagher was one of about 20 area residents who attended a sign-making event at Kennett Township on April 11 in preparation for upcoming protests by the Kennett Area Democrats on April 18, May 2 and May 16.
Burton,
Kennett Community Grocer...
Continued from Page 1A and move it to regional hubs. In the process, we’re going to lose a lot of our inspectors.”
Burkey said that the potential loss of food safety oversight will draw more focus on food co-ops to fill that gap by providing locally grown healthy food.
“Having a locally sourced food supply in the area allows communities and community organizations to step up where once there were state and federal systems,” she said. “Food co-ops have traditionally been places where people know one another, see one another and talk with one another.”
The recent news also continues to accentuate the urgency to fulfill the organization’s primary mission. Now in its eighth year, Kennett Community Grocer now has nearly 500 member-owners; developed a 1,300-member mailing list; created a board of directors; established bylaws; developed an on-line newsletter; created partnerships with dozens of local farmers and vendors; held numerous public events, including 13 in 2024; and is in the early stages of kicking off a capital campaign.
While the organization has successfully connected the necessary dots in the community during that time, it is doing so in order to locate, develop, open and manage a 12-hour, seven-day-a-week, mem-
bership-driven food co-op.
A location nearly came to fruition last year when KCG signed a lease to occupy a 7,000- squarefoot space at the Kennett Square Borough Hall at 600 South Broad Street.
After a letter of agreement was accepted by Kennett Borough Council, the organization began to conceptualize the design and affordability of opening the store, but ultimately, the Council rejected KCG’s lease agreement based on a discrepancy on the persquare-foot cost of leasing the space.
In addition, there was a potential conflict with KCG occupying the space, given that the parking lot near the planned store is used frequently throughout the year by events produced by Kennett Collaborative and other outside entities, which given the large attendance at these events would have closed off access to the store.
Small, large? Retail options discussed
A large portion of the 90-minute meeting was devoted to sharing ideas about potential locations for a store, the options of which ranged from creating a smaller store, developing an online ordering model, and continuing to raise the necessary funding to
support a store about the size of the one that was planned to be retrofitted in the Borough building.
Board member Mitch Warren recommended that KCG begin to establish its presence in the local marketplace soon. In the next six months to a year, he recommended that the organization create an online ordering system with local farmers on its website.
“Even if it’s a delivery store only or a mini store and delivery or just a mini store, we need to try something,” he said. “If we just hope for someone to show up and donate land and money after all of our efforts that have already been put in, I don’t think we’re gong to get anywhere this way.”
Burkey said there are properties right now within walking distance of the center of Kennett Square Borough that are between 800 and 1,200 square feet, which if chosen would create a smaller imprint that could allow the KCG to establish a physical store, develop a customer base and an online food ordering system, and leverage its success to build a larger store.
Burkey said that according to the food co-op industry, the optimal space needed for a store is 4,000 square feet of retail space and between 1,000 to
1,500 square feet dedicated to offices and storage space. In addition, a food co-op location of this size would require between 20-25 parking spaces and adequate space for double-axle trucks to make deliveries. She said that she has approached several business owners and farmers about possible sites and delivery models, but to date, no serious negotiations have begun.
“The big challenge for us is to determine, ‘How does a food co-op open its doors?’” Burkey said. “How do you go from establishing a membership to begin shopping?’ To open a sustainable door and work with farmers,
we have to create a store that has been designed and equipped in the most costeffective way possible, and with as little debt as possible.”
Finding the right location for Kennett Community Grocer, Burkey said, should be chosen not just on the basis of its location, but for economic reasons.
“We do not need a fancy interior,” she said. “We can choose used refrigeration and used shelving. What becomes really expensive is what we were going to have to do at 600 South Broad Street, which was to blow out walls, create doors and put the plumbing and refrigeration in and insulate the place.”
In other business, the KCG board agreed that the organization will make its chili cook-off contest an annual event, and that a new committee will be formed to organize and schedule this year’s contest for later this year. Applications to become a member of the KCG’s 12-member board for a three-year term are now available on the organization’s website, through May 2. Board elections will run from May 12-24. To learn more about Kennett Community Grocer, visit www.kennettcommunitygrocer.coop
To contact Staff Writer Richard L. Gaw, email rgaw@chestercounty.com.
Photo by Richard L. Gaw
Kennett Community Grocer Board President Edie Burkey, second from right, front row, stands with fellow board members at the organization’s annual meeting on April 10. Other members present include, front row, from left, Lisa Baldwin, Sandi Murphy and Kimm Engle, and back row, from left, Philippe Mazur, Mitch Warren and Stu Mundth.
The graffiti of our nation’s highest ideals
If one were to turn the opening pages of any history book on Chester County or perhaps come across a historical marker along its many scenic roads, they would very likely read about the courageous sojourn of Harriet Tubman.
Tubman and her image and her story and her legacy are everywhere among us – at the Kennett Heritage Center in Kennett Square and at lectures given by the Kennett Underground Railroad Center. She is forever etched in the fabric of our history in praise and reflection of her remarkable accomplishments in rescuing slaves and ushering them to freedom along the Underground Railroad, the journeys of which slice directly through the hamlets and crevices and neighborhoods where we now live.
Recently, it came to the attention of the National Park Service that a website story devoted to Tubman’s achievements, her quotations and her image had been mysteriously wiped off of the website during February – Black History Month. Instead, without approval from the National Park Service, the page was replaced by images of postage stamps that highlighted “Black/White Cooperation,” and new text that emphasized that the Underground Railroad “bridged the divides of race.”
Any mention of slavery was removed.
While the acknowledgement of Tubman has been restored to the website, it is merely one incident in a series of stunts orchestrated by the Trump administration’s mission to wipe away any traces of diversity, equity and inclusion in the federal government. On the Arlington National Cemetery’s website, the graves of Black – and female – service members have vanished or been obscured. A Defense Department page dedicated to the military service of Jackie Robinson – the first African American player in baseball’s Major Leagues and an early pioneer in the fight for civil rights – disappeared and then reappeared. Another tribute by the Defense Department – a biography of Maj. Gen. Charles Calvin Rogers, an African American who achieved the rank of general and received the Medal of Honor - disappeared but was restored.
The Trump administration also issued “Restoring Truth and Sanity to American History,” an executive order claiming that the Smithsonian Museum has become under “the influence of a divisive, race-centered ideology,” specifically pointing to the National Museum of African American History and Culture that was approved by President Obama in 2016.
And so it goes, on and on: the Black Lives Matter mural in Washington, D.C. has been painted over; the stories of the Tuskegee Airmen have been removed from federal websites. Let us make no mistake here: this is a concocted attempt to scrub away any perceived tarnish from American history, in the same manner of a street cleaner who tosses buckets of bleach onto sidewalks to remove unsightly graffiti.
What this administration fails to understand and respect is that the legend of Harriet Tubman – like Jackie Robinson and Calvin Rogers - is the graffiti of our nation’s highest ideals, our heroism, our dignity, and our permanence, and no amount of small-minded attempts to dissolve the African American story from our nation’s memory will ever be strong enough to do so.
There is a mural, 87 feet wide by 17 feet in height, that stands beside the Kennett Library on South Willow Street in Kennett Square. Created by community mural artist Al Moretti and dedicated last August, the mural is a tribute to Chester County as a symbol of history and progress: the mushroom industry, Longwood Gardens, the Lenape Indian legacy, equestrian life, the Latino culture and author Bayard Taylor. Most prominently featured in the mural is Tubman, whose eyes seem to reflect a sense of resilience, guts, temerity and defiance, as if she is looking directly into the faces of those whose intentions are to scrub away her magnitude and saying, Try to remove me. Go ahead, I dare you.
To drive U.S. innovation, we have to support startups
By Dr. Rachel Dorin
When researchers discover a new technology, its potential isn’t always obvious. No one knew at first that email would become a vital daily tool for four billion people. Today, as artificial intelligence goes mainstream, we have no idea of all the possible applications.
Inventors bridge the gap between initial breakthrough and usable product through a process of constant innovation. But this doesn’t happen by accident. The United States is one of the most innovative countries in the world thanks to a well-designed system of intellectual property law, which encourages entrepreneurs to keep driving technology to tangibly improve the world around them.
We must continue to uphold and defend the laws that encourage investment in entrepreneurial pursuits and enable America to excel in innovation. Our current system began
with the 1980 Bayh-Dole Act, a bipartisan law that enabled universities to retain patent rights on discoveries that received federal grants. Before Bayh-Dole, the government kept patent rights to any publicly funded breakthroughs. But federal agencies had little incentive to commercialize early-stage research, so they mostly didn’t.
After the law passed, universities could license their discoveries to private companies. Thanks to this system, more than 141,000 patents have been issued to academic institutions over the last three decades, leading to the formation of more than 18,000 startup companies. Small companies and startups hold 73 percent of university licenses.
As a Ph.D. student at Cornell University, I developed a novel membrane that filters out nanoscopic impurities during drug manufacturing, making the process safer and more efficient. Despite the fact up to nine out of ten startups
fail, often due to financing challenges, I decided to become an entrepreneur to turn my invention into a product and share it with the world.
After securing a patentlicensing agreement with Cornell, I had to convince venture capitalists to invest in my idea by assuring them that my technology could someday generate a return on their investment. This same process is spurring research and development at tens of thousands of startups nationwide.
Yet some critics continue to push for a misguided interpretation of the BayhDole Act’s “march in” clause that allows the government to relicense patents under certain very narrow circumstances. These critics claim that government agencies can cancel patent protections on federally funded inventions whenever they deem the price of the end product “unreasonable.”
Proponents of this say it could lower prescription drug costs. Their theory is that the patents the gov-
ernment “marches in” on could be relicensed to other companies, which would then make copycat products for less. But it is unlikely to have that effect.
Nearly 98 percent of drugs aren’t even eligible for this new twist on marchin rights, since they don’t rely exclusively on federally funded patents. Moreover, this reinterpretation of Bayh-Dole would apply to all government-funded products, not just drugs. It would stifle investment in every technological sector.
The Bayh-Dole system has fueled innovation for more than 40 years, enabling entrepreneurs to build on the work of academic researchers. We don’t yet know what today’s breakthrough discoveries will bring. But it’s safe to say that we’ll compromise our technological future if we start hammering away at patent rights.
Dr. Rachel Dorin is the founder and CEO of TeraPore Technologies, Inc.
Congress must fix how Medicare
pays doctors—before it’s too late
By Dr. Paul Berggreen
Medicare has slashed physician reimbursement again. Unless Congress takes swift and meaningful action, we could see the unraveling of independent medical practices across the country.
This isn’t theoretical. It’s already happening. If this trend continues, many communities will lose access to convenient, cost-efficient care.
Doctors in independent practice have now endured five straight years of Medicare payment cuts. The expenses required to keep a practice running are climbing – they’re projected to rise 3.5 percent this year alone.
After adjusting for inflation, Medicare’s payments to physicians have dropped by roughly 33 percent since 2001.
Faced with shrinking revenue and rising costs, independent physicians are left with few choices. Negotiating better rates from private insurers is next to impossible due to the insurers’ overwhelming market power. That leaves doctors with painful decisions: cut back services, shut down their practices, or sell to large hospital systems.
Many have taken that last route. Over the past five years, nearly 75,000 physicians have shifted from private practice to employment within hospitals and large health systems. In 2022 and 2023 alone, hospitals absorbed 2,800 more practices.
Hospitals are more than willing to take on these practices. More employed doctors means more internal referrals for lucrative services. And here’s the kicker. Medicare pays hospitals significantly more than independent doctors for identical treatments— from imaging scans to chemotherapy. When local practices disappear, patients often find themselves paying more for the same care. Hospitals’ higher reimbursement rates translate into bigger out-of-pocket bills. Plus, patients might have to travel farther for services they once received close to home.
As competition shrinks, massive health systems gain more leverage to raise prices – without necessarily delivering better outcomes. A National Bureau of Economic Research report found that medical services from these large health sys-
tems can cost up to 26 percent more than those provided by independent physicians.
Medicare is feeling the financial strain. According to a 2024 study of five specialties conducted by health care consulting firm Avalere, total Medicare expenditures per beneficiary per year increased an average of more than $1,300 in the 12 months after the physician caring for the beneficiary moved from an unaffiliated private practice to a hospital affiliation. That directly translates to higher out-ofpocket costs for patients, with no improvement in quality or access. Not a winning formula.
Congress can reverse these trends – and protect the viability of independent physician practice— by raising Medicare reimbursement.
The Medicare Patient Access and Practice Stabilization Act of 2025, introduced by Rep. Greg Murphy, R-N.C., would reverse this year’s pay cut and make doctors whole for the losses they’ve already endured. It has attracted bipartisan support from over 120 members of Congress.
But Congress must
Chester County Press
not stop there. It needs to implement structural reform. That means tying Medicare reimbursement for physicians to inflation, as the program long has for hospitals. For years, lawmakers have applied all sorts of temporary fixes to mitigate the impact of Medicare reimbursement cuts for physicians. That approach makes no sense. It creates uncertainty for physicians about whether they’ll be able to absorb the rising costs of running a practice, recruit and retain skilled staff, and invest in new technology and equipment.
Independent physicians aren’t asking for special treatment. They’re asking for a level playing field –one that reflects economic reality and supports the kind of patient-centered care our system needs. Congress has a chance to protect access, strengthen competition, and ensure health care remains personal and affordable. The time to act is now.
Dr. Paul Berggreen is a gastroenterologist and president of the American Independent Medical Practice Association (aimpa.us).
Courtesy photo Harriet Tubman
Chamber celebration honors Oxford businesses and leaders
The Oxford Area Chamber of Commerce recently presented awards to its Citizen of the Year, Business of the Year, and Organization of the Year
The Oxford Area Chamber of Commerce honored businesses and leaders who are making a positive impact on the local community during the chamber’s annual Award Dinner Dance that took place on April 5 at the Barn of Nottingham.
Beiler-Campbell Realtors and Appraisers took home the Business of the Year award. The company has been meeting the residential and commercial real estate needs of buyers and sellers for more than 50 years and has grown into one of the most highly respected and largest locally owned companies in Chester County during that time.
Beiler-Campbell Realtors and Appraisers also gives back to the community, with members of the leadership team serving on various boards or volunteering to improve the community. Each year, the company hosts a golf tournament that supports area
nonprofit organizations.
The Citizen of the Year award was presented to Nick Sandoval. Even though he is a relative newcomer to the Oxford community, he serves on the boards of several nonprofit organizations, and he also coaches youth sports in the area.
The New London Counseling Center was recognized as this year’s recipient of the Organization of the Year award. The mission of New London Counseling Center is to provide quality, compassionate mental health services that are accessible and affordable to everyone in the community. The organization has served the local community since 2019.
The Oxford Area Chamber of Commerce Board also honored Richard Hannum, who is retiring after more than 25 years of service to the chamber and to the Oxford community.
The chamber’s board of directors also presented Christine Grove, the executive director of the organization, with an honorary Citizen of the Year award for her hard work and dedication.
One of Grove’s responsibilities is to assist new businesses in Oxford, and
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Upland Country Day School offers students a unique way to learn about journalism and publishing
Seventh grade students at the Upland Country Day School recently had a unique opportunity to learn about journalism and publishing when they produced two newspapers covering events in the world of the dystopian novel that they have been working on this school year.
Emily Swarter, an English teacher in Upland’s Upper School, explained that the students researched a variety of newspapers and roles in newspapers, and then chose their jobs for this assignment based on their interests.
“We had a publisher, an editor-in-chief, news, weather, and investigative reporters, an opinion columnist, a cartoonist, a photojournalist, and ads/marketing director,” Swarter explained.
“Their task was to create a newspaper based on the dystopian world of the novel (The Testing).” Swarter, who is also a graduate of Upland, enlisted the help of Avery Lieberman Eaton, who publishes the Chester County Press with her brother, Stone Lieberman.
Avery is a 2006 graduate of Upland Country Day School, and Stone graduated from the school three years later. She visited Swarter’s 7th grade English class as a guest expert on journalism and publishing.
“Avery visited my class of seventh-grade English students in early January for a session on journalism, and specifically how to create and publish a newspaper,” Swarter explained. “Avery and I are both alumnae of Upland Country Day School, and I was thrilled by the idea of bringing in a guest speaker with real world experience—and, even better, an Upland alum with real world experience in the field of journalism.”
Swarter said that Avery’s visit helped the students to think about how to put together a newspaper and what the different functions of their roles looked like.
“She talked about bylines, headlines, above the fold, below the fold, achieving flow through a publication, a newspaper’s mission, and then the students had
the opportunity to ask her for advice or feedback on their ideas as related to their newspaper,” Swarter said. “Students published two newspapers over the course of the unit, and it was amazing to see the growth. Avery said their newspaper looked like a real newspaper, and it did.”
Swarter also said that the newspaper project meshed well with Upland’s Harkness method, which is a teaching method centered on communication, listening, and respect around a table.
“Avery emphasized to the students the critical importance of communication for a newspaper’s staff, and I have to say that’s a critical piece to a successful Harkness discussion,” Swarter explained. “My goal with the project was to offer students a creative framework to study a text rather than traditional discussions or assessments, and to give them a glimpse into something they might like to pursue as a future career.”
Avery said that she enjoyed the experience of working with the Upland
students and sharing insights about the newspaper industry with them.
“It was an honor to work with the next generation of young journalists,” Avery said. “It was great to see them asking inspiring questions and learning about what it takes to get a newspaper off
ground.”
The Citizen of the Year award was presented to Nick Sandoval.
the
Courtesy photos
Seventh grade students at the Upland Country Day School had a unique opportunity to learn about journalism and publishing when they produced two newspapers covering events in the world of the dystopian novel that they have been working on this school year. Avery Lieberman Eaton, who publishes the Chester County Press with her brother, Stone Lieberman, served as a guest experts on journalism and publishing, and helped the students with the project.
Photos courtesy Oxford Area Chamber of Commerce/Moonloop Photography and Abbott Imagery Beiler-Campbell Realtors and Appraisers took home the Business of the Year award.
The New London Counseling Center was presented with the award for Organization of the Year.
The Oxford Area Chamber of Commerce Board honored Richard Hannum, who is retiring after more than 25 years of service to the organization.
she brings confetti cannons to the grand opening celebrations of each to ensure that there is a festive flair to the occasion. On this night, the chamber board set off
the confetti cannons to celebrate Grove. The festive evening concluded with dinner and dancing.
about the Oxford Area Chamber of Commerce and this year’s award recipients, visit the chamber’s social media and the website at wwwoxfordpa.org.
EDITH
ELEANOR TULUMELLO
It is with heavy hearts that we mourn the passing of Edith Eleanor Tulumello, a beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, who left us on March 23, 2025, at the age of 95. Born on July 30, 1929, in Malvern, Pa., Edith lived a life rich in love, dedication, and achievement.
Edith devoted herself to her family, serving as a nurturing mother to her son, Michael Tulumello (Jeanne Barrett) of Oakland, MI and her daughter, Linda Dillon, of North East, Md. She fully enjoyed being a grandmother to Jamie Tulumello of Chesham, England and Ryan Tulumello of North East, Md., and great-grandmother with boundless affection to Madison Drew and Sylvie Drew. As the matriarch of her family, she instilled strong values and shared countless moments of joy, laughter, and wisdom that will forever be cherished by those she leaves behind, including her brother, Vincent Coletta (Sandy) of San Diego, Calif. and Karen McCauley, mother of Jamie and Ryan.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Sal Tulumello, parents, Michael and Ernestina (Amore) Coletta, and brother, Patrick Coletta.
Professionally, Edith excelled in the banking industry, achieving the prominent position of vice president of
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Meridian Bank (formerly of Kennett Square), where she garnered respect and admiration for her leadership and commitment to excellence. She was also active in Kennett Square’s Chamber of Commerce and was elected to serve a term as its president, where she took pride in contributing to the growth and prosperity of the local business community.
Edith’s spirit of generosity and unwavering support touched countless lives, and her legacy will endure in the hearts of all who knew her.
Friends and family are invited to gather for a visitation on April 23 from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at Crouch Funeral Home P.A., 127 South Main Street, North East, Md. Loved ones can pay their respects and share in the loving memories of Edith’s extraordinary journey.
A memorial mass service to celebrate Edith’s joyful life will take place at noon on April 23 at St. Jude’s Roman Catholic Church at 928 Turkey Point Road in North East, Md.
Though she is no longer with us, Edith Eleanor Tulumello’s light will continue to shine through the lives she touched and the love she cultivated.
For condolences, please visit www.crouchfuneralhome.com.
KEVIN D. PRICE
Kevin Dean Price passed away peacefully while surrounded by his loving family at his home in West Grove on April 3, 2025. He was 73. He was the devoted husband of Linda (Kimball) Price, with whom he shared 38 wonderful years of marriage.
Kevin was born on January 13, 1952 in Lansdowne, Pa., the son of the late Maxwell and Katherine (Horley) Price. He spent much of his life in Delaware and Chester counties, with some of his younger years spent in Florida.
Kevin was a cherished husband, father, grandfather, and friend, and was known for his warmth, generosity, and sense of humor. His presence touched the lives of many. Professionally, Kevin enjoyed a variety of careers, though he was most passionate about his work in auto sales. He also owned and took great pride in running his coffee shop, the Lincoln Coffee Exchange in West Chester. Outside of his career, Kevin had a deep love for the water. He enjoyed boating on the Chesapeake Bay and he also liked muscle cars. He was happiest spending time with his family and sharing his many stories. His grandchildren brought him immense joy, and they adored him deeply.
In addition to his wife, Kevin is survived by his six children: Dawn (Tom), Joseph (Lisa), Kevin (Ciara), Stephanie (Christopher), Kenny (Elizabeth), and Kelly. He also leaves behind his beloved grandchildren, Jenna, Joseph, Alyssa, Julianna, Olivia, Sienna, and Hallie, as well as his siblings Eddie (Patti), Lisa, and Gregory. Kevin was predeceased by his brother Jamie.
Services were held on April 10 at the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Catholic Church in West Grove. Interment will be held privately.
Arrangements are being handled by Grieco Funeral Home & Crematory, Inc. of Kennett Square (484-734-8100).
To view Kevin’s online obituary and leave condolences for the family, please visit www.griecofunerals.com.
ROBERTA GRACE ELRICK
Roberta Grace “Robin” Elrick, 80, of Midland, died on Monday, April 7, 2025 at Olson Manor of Midland. She was born in Kennett Square on June 26, 1944, the daughter of the late Robert and Grace (Angle) Elrick Brewster.
Roberta was formerly of Upland, Pa. and had been employed in the banking industry for 48 years. She retired as a bank manager with First Federal Savings and Loan of Swarthmore, Pa. before moving to Midland.
Robin is survived by her sister Peggy (John IV) Wharton of Midland, a nephew, John (Amy) Wharton V of Steamboat Springs, Colo., great nephews, John (Sophia) Wharton VI, Benjamin Wharton, and Peter Wharton, all of Denver, and a nephew Dave Mattson of Pittsburgh. She is also survived by many friends she encountered throughout her banking career.
In addition to her parents, Roberta was preceded in death by her sister, Jacqueline Elrick, and her niece, Veronica Mattson.
Roberta’s family wishes to show their appreciation to everyone at King’s Daughters Home, Olson Manor, and Care Team Hospice for the loving care shown to her at all times.
Memorial services for Robin will take place at 4 p.m. on Saturday, April 26 at the Midland Evangelical Free Church, 7221 Jefferson Ave, Midland, Mich. 48642 with Pastor Gib Giblin officiating. Her family will receive friends at the church on Saturday from 3 p.m. until time of the service. Those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. All of us at Ware Smith Woolever are honored the Elrick family has entrusted us with the care of their loved one.
ALICIA LYNN DELVALLE
Alicia Lynn Delvalle, 38, of Wilmington, Del., passed away while at home on March 28, 2025.
Born in West Chester, she was the daughter of Bobby Brown of West Grove and Edna Ruth Pierce Mayo of Wilmington, Del.
Alicia worked in Chester County and her patients adored her. She enjoyed drawing and being outdoors. She especially loved spending time with her son and her family. She is survived by one son, Elijah Ojeda, at home; by her mother and her husband, Donald Mayo; her father and his wife, Marie; three brothers, Joe Pierce of Gap, Andre Brown of West Grove and Julian Brown of West Grove; a sister, Kimberly Delvalle of West Grove; a stepfather, Salustiano Delvalle of West Grove; her uncle Edward Pierce of West Grove and aunt Perla Pierce of Brookhaven; and nieces, nephews and many cousins.
Funeral services were held on April 12 at the Edward L. Collins, Jr. Funeral Home, Inc. in Oxford.
Interment will be private.
Arrangements are being handled by the Edward L. Collins, Jr. Funeral Home, Inc. (www.elcollinsfuneralhome.com) in Oxford.
LARRY ELLIOT JONES
Larry Elliot Jones, of West Grove, passed away peacefully at home on April 9, 2025. He was 84.
A beloved husband, father, grandfather, friend, and community member, Larry left a lasting imprint on everyone fortunate enough to know him.
Born on October 13, 1940, Larry was raised on a family farm in Chester County, where he spent his youth tending cattle and riding horses. He graduated from West Nottingham Academy in 1958 and went on to earn a degree in business administration from Elizabethtown College. He later received his law degree from the Dickinson School of Law in 1965.
Larry spent most of his life in West Grove, becoming something of a local legend—riding his HarleyDavidson in a suit, passionately supporting the Philadelphia Eagles, and befriending nearly everyone he met. He was a true original. Known for his iconic mustache, booming laugh, and unwavering generosity, Larry had a one-of-a-kind spirit and a love for life. He loved sushi, sunbathing, desserts, and—during his younger years—long rides to Florida on his Harley, which he rode into his late 70s.
He used his legal skills to serve others, offering pro bono work to a battered women’s shelter, supporting individuals in recovery through Alcoholics Anonymous, and quietly helping countless friends and neighbors in meaningful ways.
Even in his final months, as Lewy Body Dementia began to take its toll, Larry’s warmth, humor, and love endured. One of his final joys was watching the Eagles win the Super Bowl again this year—an unforgettable moment shared with family.
To his loved ones, he was “Dado”—a fiercely devoted father and grandfather. He is survived by his wife, Ann, his children, Elliot Jones (Mark), Jennifer Jones, Ben Jones (Sarah), Andrew Jones (Eliza), and Alexandra Jones, and his cherished grandchildren, Corrina, Annika, Liana, Elias, Adelaide, and Alpheus.
In lieu of flowers, family asks donations be made to La Mancha Animal Rescue, P.O. Box 656 Unionville, Pa., 19375.
A summer celebration of life will be announced at a later date.
Obituaries
JAMES R. SIMS, II
James Richard Sims II, known as Jim, died on April 8, 2025 at the age of 68. He was a resident of Rising Sun, Md.
A devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend, Jim was respected as a lifelong musician and man of God.
Jim was born in West Grove on October 21, 1956, to James R. Sr. and Donna Rosalie (Simmons) Sims. Jim graduated from Oxford Area High School in the Class of 1974, where he served as Class President. He was also an Eagle Scout.
His love for music began at a young age. He played a variety of instruments, from oboe in the marching band to the drums, electric guitar, and the Hammond organ. Jim could often be found in neighbors’ garages jamming with friends after school.
He attended the University of Delaware and received a Certificate for Advanced Audio Engineering at the College for Recording Arts in San Francisco, Calif.
In his early twenties, Jim followed The Grateful Dead along their tour around the United States. He was an avid concert-goer and loved rock and roll. At the age of 30, Jim met Jesus and his life changed completely. He began attending church services in Oxford, where he met his wife, Audrey, and they married in 1989. Together, Jim and Audrey served in worship bands at many churches in the area, leading worship services on Sundays and attending small groups. Jim often served the church by running sound, using his gifts in audio
engineering for the glory of God.
He began his career in technology sales before transitioning to electrical engineering, developing systems for large-scale office and industrial developments. He was also formerly employed by W.L. Gore in quality control and by Cecil College, where he taught Computer Basics. In 2018, Jim retired from Computer Sciences Corporation where he worked as a network security engineer for 20 years.
He is survived by Audrey T. Sims, his wife of 36 years, one son, David Sims, one daughter, Alicia Tablazon and her husband, James, and one grandson, James Sims Tablazon V, known as JT. Jim was preceded in death by his brother, Stephen Daniel Sims, and by his infant daughter, Rachel Hannah Sims.
Funeral services will be held on Thursday, April 17 at the Oxford United Methodist Church, 18 Addison Street in Oxford. A viewing for friends and family will take place at 11 a.m. and the formal service will begin at noon. Interment will be in Oxford Cemetery following the service.
Jim cared deeply about generously supporting ministry work in his community and around the globe. In lieu of flowers, contributions in his memory may be made to The Paris Foundation to alleviate homelessness in Elkton, Md. at theparisfoundation.org or Touch the World Ministries to equip youth and young adults for missions work at touchtheworld.org.
Arrangements are being handled by the Edward L. Collins, Jr. Funeral Home, Inc. in Oxford. Online condolences may be made at www.elcollinsfuneralhome.com.
MARY JEAN CARABALLO
Mary Jean Caraballo (née Shatley), a force of nature and a loving matriarch, passed away at the age of 78 on April 5, 2025. Born on February 17, 1947, in Washington, Virginia, she spent the majority of her life in Chester County, where she left an indelible mark on those who knew her.
Mary Jean possessed a vibrant and spirited personality. She had a passion for spirited debates and a knack for collecting treasures that caught her eye. Beneath her sometimes-fiery exterior was a heart that loved fiercely and deeply.
Her proudest accomplishments were undoubtedly her family. She cherished her role as a mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, finding immense joy in the company of her daughters, grandkids, cherubs, and her
beloved girl. She valued her independence above all else, and maintained it throughout her life.
Mary Jean is survived by her devoted daughters, Gloria Rosado, Margaret Garcia, and Jessica Caraballo, her loving grandchildren, Jeremy Caraballo, Gina Caraballo, Juan Lemus, Kattie Lemus, Sarah Rosado, and Samantha McCracken, and her adored great-grandchildren. Her memory will be held dear by all who were fortunate enough to experience her unique spirit and unwavering love.
A memorial service to celebrate Mary Jean’s life was held on April 11 at the Edward L. Collins, Jr. Funeral Home, Inc. in Oxford.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Mary Jean’s name to the National Kidney Foundation. Arrangements are being handled by the Edward L. Collins, Jr. Funeral Home, Inc. (www.elcollinsfuneralhome.com) in Oxford.
WALTER DEAN PIERSON
Walter Dean Pierson, of Oxford, passed away peacefully while surrounded by family and loved ones at his home on April 1, 2025. He was 85.
Dean was born on September 7, 1939, in Lewisville, Elk Township, Chester County, to the late Walter A. and Alice E. Hammond Pierson.
He graduated from Oxford Area High School, Class of 1957, and was married to Jacklyn S. Roten, the love of his life, for 64 years. Dean served in the U.S. Army and was honorably discharged prior to the birth of his daughter. His time in the service left him with countless stories that kept you guessing until the very end; he had a way of telling Army tales that made you lean in and hang on every word.
Dean was a man of many talents. He was a precise welder, a skilled heavy equipment operator, carpenter, mason—you name it, he could build it, fix it, or even engineer it. Over the years, he worked for Robert L. Terry, Harold Futty, and Howard Twyford, and later at Star Roses/Conard-Pyle. He also worked at a fertilizer company with his nephew, Kenny. After retirement, he spent several years driving for the Amish in the local area.
Dean ran a small farm where he raised beef cattle, and he loved working on farming equipment. He especially enjoyed baling hay and telling stories about his hunting trips with his buddies from back in the day.
Lydia Julia Heidler, 21, of West Grove, passed away on April 7, 2025 at Mount Nittany Medical Center in State College, Pa.
Born in Doylestown, Pa., she was the daughter of Michelle (Heidler) McCleary and Timothy McCleary.
Lydia was an avid reader of classic literature as well as contemporary authors. She enjoyed spending time in the mountains, hiking, and exploring the architecture of old abandoned buildings. She also loved creating and sharing artisanstyle sandwiches, going out for sushi, and enjoying her daily lattes. Although largely introverted, when among family, Lydia kept everyone laughing with her quick wit and impeccable comedic timing. Lydia was also a talented artist, with boundless compassion for animals of all kinds. She is survived by her mother and father; two sisters, Rae and Cecilia; her maternal grandfather, John Heidler of West Grove; her maternal grandmother and step-grandfather, Sue and Jim Crognale of Gilbertsville, Pa.; her maternal great-grandmother, Lillian Pellissier of Glen Mills, Pa.; her paternal grandparents, Jane and Bob McCleary of Lincoln University, Pa.; and paternal grandparents, Leslie and Frank Cuthbertson of Philadelphia;
He had a passion for all things Ford, especially his 1985 Crown Victoria, and he took great pride in his collection of John Deere tractors.
Dean’s greatest joy was his family. He loved spending time with his daughter, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, and made a point to attend everything from sports and music events to Grandparents Day and (grand) father-daughter dances. He was a proud, caring man who was always there when someone needed help—no matter the time or task.
Dean was also a dedicated member of Nottingham Missionary Baptist Church and helped haul donated supplies to Erbacon, WV, after storm damage struck the area. He is survived by his wife, Jacklyn; his daughter, Barbara L. Pierson-Riley of Oxford; eight grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; and his sister, Mary Anne (Wayne) Reisler of Mansfield, Pa. He is also survived by several nieces, nephews, and great nieces and nephews that he loved very much.
He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers, Howard T., Robert W. and Joseph H., and infant siblings, George C. and Joyce I. Pierson.
A service was held on April 11 at Nottingham Missionary Baptist Church.
Interment was in the adjoining 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.
one maternal aunt, Brittany Heidler of Gilbertsville, Pa.; her maternal uncle, Michael Heidler, along with his wife, Danielle (Tracy) Heidler, and their daughter Emily, and soon-to-be daughter Hailey, of Norristown, Pa.
Lydia and Emily shared a special bond despite their 20-year age difference. The two would light up any room they entered, and their love for each other was clear to see. The family prays that God will bestow upon Lydia the honorary title of “Guardian Angel” to watch over her little cousin Emily, whom she adored so much.
Lydia also leaves behind a kitten she named Marie. During one of Lydia’s spontaneous adventures, she found a tiny white kitten by the side of the road. Sensing that the little creature was alone in the world, Lydia scooped her up and cared for her, showering her with love for the rest of her days on Earth.
Lydia is also survived by many aunts, uncles, cousins, family members, and friends. She will be deeply missed and forever remain in the hearts of her family and friends. A funeral mass will be held 11 a.m. on Saturday, April 19 at Sacred Heart Church, 203 Church Road, Oxford, where friends and family may visit from 10 a.m. to 10:45 a.m.
Interment will be private Arrangements are being handled by the Edward L Collins, Jr. Funeral Home, Inc. in Oxford.
LYDIA JULIA HEIDLER
Notice of Self Storage Sale
Please take notice Storage First Kennett Square 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. This sale will occur as an online auction via www.storageauctions.com on 4/28/2025 at 10:00 AM. Heather Conway Unit #3
This sale may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Certain terms and conditions apply.
ESTATE NOTICE
ESTATE OF CHERYL LYNN
YEOMAN a/k/a CHERYL L. YEOMAN, DECEASED. Late of Lower Oxford Township, 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 TRACY M. YEOMAN, EXECUTRIX, 8 Bentley Rd., West Grove, PA 19390, Or to her Attorney:
ANITA M. D’AMICO, D’AMICO
LAW, P.C., 65 S. Third St., Oxford, PA 19363 4p-2-3t
ESTATE NOTICE
Estate of Jerome D. Mealey
Late of Honey Brook , 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 Sandra Fulmer, Executrix, 2357 Cedar Lane, Secane, PA 19018 . 4p-2-3t
ESTATE NOTICE
Estate of Kyle John Kimbro, Deceased late of the Borough of Parkesburg, Chester County, PA. Letters of Administration on the above estate have been granted to the undersigned. All persons having claims against or indebted to the estate should make claims known or forward payment to Christa Corum, Administrator, 280 Liz Lane, Gap, PA 17527 or to their attorney Jaime W. Goncharoff, Esquire, Law Offices of Jamie W. Goncharoff, 15 West Gay Street, West Chester, PA 19380. 4p-2-3t
ESTATE NOTICE
Charles E. Peoples, late of Oxford, Chester County, Pennsylvania 12/6/2024. The Executrix of the Estate is Nancy Zook. All persons having claims or demands against the Estate of said decedent are requested to make known the same, and all persons indebted to the decedent to make payment without delay to Nancy Zook c/o George S. Donze, Esquire, Donze & Donze, 696 Unionville Road, Suite 6, Kennett Square, PA 19348.
copasheriffsales, on Thursday, April 17 th, 2025 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 Monday, May 19, 2025. Distribution will be made in accordance with the Schedules unless exceptions are filed in the Sheriff’s Office within ten (10) days thereafter.
and Grace G. Ludwig, husband and wife, prepared by Franco R. Bellafante, Inc., the said property being more fully bounded and described as follows, to wit:
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ESTATE NOTICE
ESTATE OF MARY E. GERLACH, DECEASED. Late of New London Township, 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 MARY H. DONAHEE, EXECUTRIX, c/o Kathryn A. Meloni, Esq., 117-119 N. Olive St., Media, PA 19063, Or to her Attorney: KATHRYN A. MELONI, LAW OFFICE OF KATHRYN A. MELONI, P.C., 117-119 N. Olive St., Media, PA 19063
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ESTATE NOTICE
ESTATE OF John J. McGrath III, LATE OF Kennett Square, Chester County, PA. LETTERS TESTAMENTARY on the above
Estate have been granted to Edward N. McGrath Jr., Executor, 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 Edward N. McGrath Jr. C/O George Donze, Esquire, Donze and Donze, 696 Unionville Rd., Suite 6, Kennett Square, PA 19348 4p-9-3t
ESTATE NOTICE
Estate of Christine Lynn Landis Late of Avondale, 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 Lisa M. Komnik, 161 N. Prospect Avenue, Patchogue, NY 11772, Executrix, Or Attorney: James J. Gallagher, II, Esquire, Morris James LLP, P.O. Box 2306, Wilmington, DE 19899-2306. 4p-9-3t
ESTATE NOTICE
Estate of Peter Hinkleman, a/k/a Peter G. Hinkleman, Westtown Township, 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 Linda Hinkleman, Executrix, C/O Attorney: Charice Chait, Peckman Chait LLP, 29 Mainland Dr., Suite1, Harleysville, PA 19438
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ESTATE NOTICE
Estate of Trudy K. Dougherty, a/k/a Gertrude K. Dougherty, Wallace Township, 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 Francine M. Wozinski, Executrix, C/O Attorney: Carl E. Frank, Esquire, Farrell & Frank, 8 West Market Street, Suite 1110, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18701-1115
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NOTICE OF FICTITIOUS NAME REGISTRATION
Notice is Hereby Given pursuant to the provisions of Act of Assembly, No. 295 Office of the Department of State of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, at Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, an application for the conduct of a business in Chester County, Pennsylvania under the assumed or fictitious name, style or designation of BREAKFAST BRAVO, under SC Kitchen Ind dba Breakfast Bravo, with its principal place of business at 420 W Cypress St, Kennett Square, PA 19348. The names and addresses of the persons owning or interested in said business is/are Chanyapat Thanasuksriboon 420 W Cypress St Kennett Square, PA 19348. 4-16-1t
ESTATE NOTICE
ESTATE OF Douglas Edward Wilfert, late of Downingtown, Chester County, Pennsylvania. The Executrix of the Estate is Randi Wilfert. All persons having claims or demands against the Estate of said decedent are requested to make known the same, and all persons indebted to the decedent to make payment without delay to Randi Wilfert c/o George S. Donze, Esquire, Donze & Donze, 696 Unionville Road, Suite 6, Kennett Square, PA 19348
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PUBLIC NOTICE
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN
The Elk Township Board of Supervisors will reschedule their May 5th, 2025 Board of Supervisors Meeting until May 12th, 2025 at 7pm in the Elk Township Building located at 952 Chesterville Rd. Lewisville, PA. If you are a person with a
disability and require special accommodation to participate in the meeting, please contact the Township at 610-255-0634 no later than 3 working days before the meeting.
4p-16-1t
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 online auction via Bid4Assets, by accessing URL www.bid4assets.com/chestercopasheriffsales, on Thursday, April 17 th, 2025 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 Monday, May 19, 2025. 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. 25-4-81
Writ of Execution No. 2024-00525
DEBT $163,400.00
ALL THAT CERTAIN lot or parcel of land situated in the Londonderry Township, County of Chester, Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, being more fully described in Deed dated February 26, 2015 and recorded in the Office of the Chester County Recorder of Deeds on April 23, 2015, in Deed Book Volume 9093 at Page 1153, as Instrument No. 201511402875.
Tax Parcel # 46-2-9.2B
PLAINTIFF: Twist Investments, LLC VS DEFENDANT: Amy Taylor Rowe
SALE ADDRESS: 13 Keller Road, Cochranville, PA 19330
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.
3P-26-3T
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 online auction via Bid4Assets, by accessing URL www.bid4assets.com/chester-
SALE NO. 25-4-84
Writ of Execution No. 2023-02867
DEBT $78,735.73
All that certain piece or parcel or Tract of land situate in New Garden Township, Chester County, Pennsylvania, and being known as 9129 Gap Newport Pike, Avondale, Pennsylvania 19311.
Tax Parcel # 60-6-14
PLAINTIFF: Longbridge Financial, LLC VS DEFENDANT: Jane Mellinger, Known Surviving Heir of Stephen T. Little, Bruce Robinson, Known Surviving Heir of Stephen T. Little, John Michael Little, Known Surviving Heir of Stephen T. Little, and Unknown Surviving Heirs of Stephen T. Little
SALE ADDRESS: 9129 Gap Newport Pike, Avondale, PA 19311
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.
3P-26-3T
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 online auction via Bid4Assets, by accessing URL www.bid4assets.com/chestercopasheriffsales, on Thursday, April 17 th, 2025 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 Monday, May 19, 2025. 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. 25-4-107
Writ of Execution No. 2023-01748 DEBT $209,861.23
ALL THAT CERTAIN tract of ground situate in East Nottingham Township, Chester County, Commonwealth of Pennsylvania being Parcel 2 as shown on the minor subdivision plan for property of Melvin R. Ludwig
BEGINNING at a spike in Township Road 314, at 33 feet wide (known as The Oakes Road), the said spike being an angle point in the easterly line of lands of Claire S. Herr and Robert H. Herr, her husband and the northwesterly corner of Parcel 1 (one) of lands, now or formerly of E. Willard Bailey and Elwood R. Morris, and wife; thence from the said point and place of beginning, along Township Road 314 and the easterly line of lands of Claire S. Herr and Robert H. Herr, her husband , North 01 degree 43 minutes 50 seconds West, 200.00 feet to a point; thence leaving Township Road 314 and leaving the easterly line of lands of Claire S. Herr and Robert H. Herr, her husband, along lands of Melvin R. Ludwig and Grace G. Ludwig, husband and wife, by the following two (2) courses and distances (1) North 88 degrees 16 minutes 10 seconds East, 227.10 feet to an iron pipe and (2) South 01 degree 43 minutes 50 seconds East, 212.76 feet to an iron pipe set in the northerly line of Parcel 1 of lands, now or formerly of E. Willard Bailey and Elwood R. Morris, and wife; thence along the northerly line of Parcel 1 of lands, now or formerly of B. Willard Bailey and Elwood R. Morris and wife, North 88 degrees 30 minutes 50 seconds West, 227.46 feet to the first mentioned point and place of beginning.
Being the same premises which Louise D. Guss by Deed dated 4/30/2019 and recorded 5/7/2019 in Chester County in Record Book 9920 Page 392 conveyed unto Curtis W. Gill, in fee.
Containing 43,560 square feet of land.
SEIZED IN EXECUTION as the property of Curtis W. Gill on Judgment No. 2023-01748-RC.
UPI # 69-6-6.1
PLAINTIFF: Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency, its successors and assigns VS DEFENDANT: Curtis W. Gill
SALE ADDRESS: 119 Oaks Road, Oxford, Chester County, PA 19363-4014
PLAINTIFF ATTORNEY: BARLEY SNYDER 610-288-4712
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.
3P-26-3T
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 online auction via Bid4Assets, by accessing URL www.bid4assets.com/chestercopasheriffsales, on Thursday,
ELIZABETH ANN LAUVER
Elizabeth Ann Lauver was born on Jan. 4, 1948, in Munich, Germany to Evan Y. Yerkes, an American G.I., and Anna Panzer Yerkes. Emigrating to the U.S. as a toddler, she spent her childhood on a dairy farm in Chester County, where she raised countless barn cats and baby chickens, became an avid reader, and learned to cook alongside her American grandmother.
As a teenager, her family later moved to the “big city” of West Grove after her father, a master carpenter, finished building their house. She attended Bishop Shanahan High School and graduated in 1965, confident in her belief that “The Sound of Music” was misleading and there was a lot less singing in a convent. She went on to attend West Chester University, graduating with a degree in elementary education in 1969.
On June 27, 1970, she married Kirk Lauver who, conveniently, grew up across the street from her in West Grove, thus resolving the age-old question, “Whose family do we visit for Christmas this year?” since everyone was already in one place. They would later move to such far-flung places as Boston and Chicago, before returning to State College, Pa., where their daughters, Susan (Jamie), and Rebecca (Jimi) would grow up and start families of their own.
A lifelong reader, and excellent cook, she amassed a
collection of cookbooks dwarfed only by the Library of Congress. She watched every cooking show PBS aired and, because there was only one TV in the house, her daughters watched them, too. They are now confident, if slightly less successful, cooks of their own.
Her greatest source of joy were her grandchildren, Ben and Julie Ruff, and John, Elliott and Anna Gingerich, for whom her love was limitless and in whom she instilled her love of books, cats and French fries.
She is survived by her husband, Kirk, her brother, Michael Yerkes, brothers-in-law, Lynn (Ann), Mark (Debbie) and Dale (Bev) Lauver, 9 nieces and nephews, and friends too many to count.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Evan and Anna Yerkes, and grandson, Evan Ruff.
Friends will be received on Thursday, April 17, from 12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Koch Funeral Home, 2401 S. Atherton Street, State College, Pa. with a Celebration of Life immediately following. Interment will be private and at the convenience of the family.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions may be made to the Schlow Centre Region Library, 211 S. Allen St. State College, Pa. 16801, Centre County PAWS, 1401 Trout Road, State College, PA 16801 or the charitable organization of your choice.
Arrangements are under the care of Koch Funeral Home. Online condolences may be entered at www. kochfuneralhome.com.
EVERETT RAY JOHNSON
Everett Ray Johnson, of Oxford, passed away on April 6, 2025 at Union Hospital in Elkton, Md. He was 80. Everett was born on November 6, 1944 in Chester, Pa. to Samuel Freemont and Margaret C. Matteson Johnson.
He was employed as a crane operator and truck driver for 43 years with Nowland Associates, Inc. of Newark, Del.
He was a member of the Oxford Church of God and former member of the North East Church of God in Maryland.
He married Dianna Doss Johnson, on July 25, 1965. She was the love of his life and together they raised their children, Gail (Tim) Nugent and Jolene Dianna
April 17 th, 2025 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 Monday, May 19, 2025. 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. 25-4-112 Writ of Execution No. 2021-01950 DEBT $107,697.27
ALL THAT CERTAIN lot or parcel of land situated in the Borough of Avondale, County of Chester, Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, being more fully described in Deed dated March 22, 1990 and recorded in the Office of the Chester County Recorder of Deeds on March 26, 1990, in Deed Book Volume 1932 at Page 83.
Tax Parcel # 04-02-0012.050
PLAINTIFF: Hoffy Unlimited, LLC VS DEFENDANT: James H. Norman & Detra A. Brison a/k/a Detra A. Brison-Norman
SALE ADDRESS: 403 Thompson Street, Avondale, PA 19311
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.
3P-26-3T
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 online auction via Bid4Assets, by accessing URL www.bid4assets.com/chester-
copasheriffsales, on Thursday, April 17 th, 2025 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 Monday, May 19, 2025. 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. 25-4-114 Writ of Execution No. 2024-07075 DEBT $330,067.40
Property situate in Township of London Grove
ALL THAT CERTAIN LOT OR PIECE OF GROUND WITH THE BUILDINGS AND IMPROVEMENT THERON ERECTED, SITUATE IN LONDON GROVE TOWNSHIP, CHESTER COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA, BOUNDED AND DESCRIBED ACCORDING TOA FINAL SUBDIVISION PLAN FOR WESTERN PARCEL FOR LANDS OF OLD OAK DEVELOPMENT CORP., MADE BY BRANDYWINE VALLEY ENGINEERS, INC., DATED MAY 14, 1991, LAST REVISED MARCH 11, 1992 AND RECORDED ON MAY 5, 1992, AS PLAN NO. 11625, AS FOLLOWS, TO WIT:
Tax Parcel # 59-08-0190.100
PLAINTIFF: U.S. BANK TRUST NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY, BUT SOLELY AS TRUSTEE OF THE TRUMAN 2021 SC9 TITLE TRUST C/O NATIONSTAR MORTGAGE LLC
VS DEFENDANT: WILLIAM E. HICKS & MELANIE M. HICKS
SALE ADDRESS: 359 Indian Run Road, Avondale, PA 19311
Johnson. They were blessed with nine grandchildren, Nathan (Tiffany) Nugent, Justin (Kim) Nugent, Chad (Christine) Wilson, Branson (Hanna) Wilson, Amber Wilson, Dianna Johnson, Abigail Johnson, Curtis Norstrum, and Grace Johnson. Also surviving are 11 great-grandchildren, and three siblings, Jane Weaver of Paoli, Shirley Christiano of Scranton and Samuel Johnson of Cochranville.
He was predeceased by his parents, Samuel Freemont and Margaret C. Johnson, his daughter, Sherry Wilson and nine siblings. His loving memory will live on through surviving children, grandchildren and many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
Services will be held at a later date.
Arrangements are being handled by the Edward L. Collins, Jr. Funeral Home, Inc. (www.elcollinsfuneralhome.com) in Oxford.
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.
3P-26-3T
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 online auction via Bid4Assets, by accessing URL www.bid4assets.com/chestercopasheriffsales, on Thursday, April 17 th, 2025 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 Monday, May 19, 2025. 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. 25-4-115
Writ of Execution No. 2016-06126 DEBT $420,656.84
ALL THOSE CERTAIN LOTS OR PIECES OF GROUND
SITUATE IN THE TOWNSHIP OF SADSBURY, CHESTER COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA:
Tax Parcel # 37-04-0115 & 37-04-0116
IMPROVEMENTS thereon: a residential property
PLAINTIFF: US BANK TRUST
NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS OWNER TRUSTEE FOR VRMTG ASSET TRUST VS DEFENDANT: JOSEPH J. ZYDINSKY, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
SALE ADDRESS: 2085 Valley Road, Parkesburg, PA 19365
PLAINTIFF ATTORNEY: ROBERTSON, ANSCHUTZ,
MARLENE E. HAMILTON
Marlene E. Stewart Hamilton, a resident of Cochranville who was born in Colora, Md., passed away at home surrounded by her family. She was 90. She was raised by her grandparents, Cora and Wiley DuVall. She was predeceased by her mother and stepfather, Mary Jane and Harry B. Ruth, and her father Roscoe Stewart. Marlene graduated from Oxford High School in 1953. She married her loving husband, the late Edward “Ted” Hamilton (d. 2009) on Sept. 4, 1954.
Marlene’s first and foremost important “job” was raising her family. When her children started their own families, she had more nurturing to give and spent the following 20 years working as a nurse’s aide at the Pocopson Home. In her spare time, she loved spending time with her large multi-generational family, gardening, bird watching, time at the Potter County cabin, antiquing, yard sales and spoiling her special “child” Abby the cat.
She is survived by her children, E. Allen Hamilton Jr. (Cynthia), Marshall R. Hamilton (Laura), Robert S. Hamilton (Lori) and Teresa M. Hamilton Hamson (Kenneth), and her grandchildren, Evelyn, Neshaminy (Lawrence), Marshall Jr. (Devyn), Zachary (Nicole), Benjamin (Heather), Jacob, James (Brianna), Danielle, Maxwell, Alexander, Kenneth III (Rosalia) and Kurt (Megan).
Also surviving are her great-grandchildren, Jaheim, Jaden, Jemnesa, Jennia, Angela, Lance, Robin, Jenna, Palyn, Addison, Harper, Chloe, Logan, Nicholas, George, Frederick, Samuel, Josephine and Mila, and her greatgreat-grandchildren, Adrianna and Memphis.
She was also predeceased by her brother, Roger Stewart (survived by wife Maxine), her daughter- in-law, Robin Hamilton, and a granddaughter, Jennifer Wertz.
A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, April 18 at Safe Harbor Baptist Church at 478 Daleville Road in Cochranville. Friends may visit with the family before the service from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m.
Interment will be held at Longwood Gardens Cemetery following the service. Luncheon to follow at the church. Please send flower arrangements to Safe Harbor Baptist Church, 478 Daleville Road, Cochranville, Pa. 19330. Contributions in Marlene’s memory may be sent to Wounded Warrior Project, P.O. Box 758516, Topeka, Kansas 66675-8516 or to St. Labre Indian School at give. stlabre.org.
Arrangements are being handled by the Edward L. Collins, Jr. Funeral Home, Inc. in Oxford. Online condolences may be made at www.elcollinsfuneralhome.com.
SCHNEID, CRANE & PARTNERS, PLLC 855-225-6906
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.
3P-26-3T
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 online auction via Bid4Assets, by accessing URL www.bid4assets.com/chestercopasheriffsales, on Thursday, April 17 th, 2025 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 Monday, May 19, 2025. 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. 24-3-85 Writ of Execution No. 2019-10682 DEBT $282,472.75
All that certain piece or parcel or Tract of land situate in the Borough of West Grove, Chester County, Pennsylvania, and being known as 115 Guernsey Road, West Grove, Pennsylvania 19390.
TAX PARCEL NUMBER: 5-328
PLAINTIFF: Longbridge Financial, LLC VS DEFENDANT: Judy Melendez
Known Surviving Heir of Jean Hoosier A/K/A Jean S. Hoosier, Randy S. Hoosier Known Surviving Heir of Jean Hoosier A/K/A Jean S. Hoosier, Richard E. Hoosier Known Surviving Heir of Jean Hoosier A/K/A Jean S. Hoosier, Ryan Hoosier Known Surviving Heir of Mi -
chael Hoosier, Deceased Heir of Jean Hoosier A/K/A Jean S. Hoosier, Nicole Eichelberger aka Nicole A. Bunting Known Surviving Heir of Michael Hoosier, Deceased Heir of Jean Hoosier A/K/A Jean S. Hoosier, and Unknown Surviving Heirs of Jean Hoosier A/K/A Jean S. Hoosier
SALE ADDRESS: 115 Guernsey Road, West Grove, PA 19390
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. 3P-26-3T
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Oxford Borough delivers state-of-borough report
By Betsy Brewer Brantner Contributing Writer
Oxford Borough Manager
Pauline Garcia-Allen presented a robust report on the state of the Borough to council members and the public on April 7.
“Every year, the borough manager needs to give an update to borough council on non-monetary matters,” Garcia-Allen explained.
“We did a lot last year. This year we will focus on what we should be doing according to our planning document, our comprehensive plan, active transportation plan and how we can be financially prepared to implement things.”
Much of what the borough has accomplished, Garcia-Allen said, can be attributed in part to a grant it received from the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (PA DCED). It is a Strategic Management Planning Program (STMP) goal to complete an economic and operational assessment of all borough departments.
Oxford Borough council and staff felt this assessment was needed to help ensure sustainability and make improvements to the delivery of services.
During 2024, the borough began to implement recommendations of the STMP plan. In 2025, each department has been working diligently to implement the recommendations.
Administration applied and received Phase 2 funding for software and capital improvement funds. The borough is now using that funding for new software.
The borough is also controlling salary increase changes, developing a code manual, developing job descriptions and will reinstitute performance evaluations. They are also looking to institute a payment-in-lieu-of-taxes for non-profit and non-taxable properties. The borough is also working toward being able to stream council meetings with new software.
In addition, the borough is working with public works employees to create the GIS mapping which will help them perform their jobs more efficiently and provide valuable information to residents.
Garcia-Allen also emphasized that some of the items that have been accomplished include completing tapping fee reviews, possible grants for the water department and low-interest loans such as those through PennVest.
Upgrades have been done to Oxford’s water system including development of a 10-year Capital Reserve Plan and completion of a water rate study. This effort is meant to help ensure the sustainability of Oxford water as a publicly owned utility. Last year, the borough began a grant-funded project to upgrade water meters and replace outdated positive displacement meters with Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) meters.
This upgrade will save money over time, enhance the delivery services and improve the customer experience. This project is nearing completion and is further supported by improvements to water utility billing software funded through a STMP Phase II grant.
Police recommendations are still in progress. The borough is working with other townships and the Southern Chester County Regional Department to explore regional policing options.
The borough has also been a big proponent of community education and outreach, and that will continue in the future. The report included just some of the initiatives underway in the borough, and more improvements are being
discussed for the future.
In other business, Oxford Borough Council approved the following:
• A special event permit application submitted by the Oxford Area Chamber of Commerce for the Halloween Parade on Oct. 30, from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m., conditioned upon payment of $1,700, which is the 50 percent deposit for two-thirds of the cost to provide police services.
• A special event permit application submitted by Oxford Mainstreet, Inc. (OMI) for the 11th Annual Car Show on Sept. 5, from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m., conditioned upon payment of $2,006, which is the 50 percent deposit for twothirds of the cost to provide police services.
• A special event permit application submitted by Oxford Mainstreet, Inc. for First Fridays for May 2, June 6, October 3, November 7, and December 5, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., conditioned upon payment of $1,400 which is the 50 percent deposit for two-thirds of the cost to provide police services and final approval from PennDOT.
• A hearing to adopt ordinance #972-2025 amending Chapter 13, License, Permits, and General Business
Regulation, Part 2, Special Events, and Chapter 21, Streets and Sidewalks, Part 3, Meetings and Parades on Streets, and Part 4, Obstructions and Encroachments, of the Code of the Borough of Oxford. Garcia-Allen reviewed the updated ordinance to see how it specifically added some distance from store fronts during events and the change required in insurance. “The difference is in when other people, not business owners, bring in tables and chairs in front of a business,” she said. “The business itself can apply for a café permit, which allows that business owner to do that. I want to stress this will not stop someone standing on the sidewalk from talking. That is covered under free speech.”
• A resolution 1399-2025 establishing insurance requirements for special events permits in the Borough of Oxford.
• Rio Supply Inc. Pay Application No. 3 in the amount of $127,299.08 and Change Order No. 2 in the amount of $167,165.52 for the grant-supported water meter replacement project.
In other business, GarciaAllen gave an update on the police study, saying, “We are still working with
our consultant on this.” Parking on Market Street was also discussed, specifically in front of the Sawmill Grill.
“The angled parking has been a safety concern for a long time,” Garcia-Allen said. “I spoke with John Schaible and other staff members about this. That is a PennDOT street and I would be happy to talk to PennDOT regarding that.”
She discussed the problems with larger vehicles parking in the angled spaces and the safety issues that take place when big trucks come around the corner.
Police Chief Sam Iacono said, “It is a horrible situation.”
Council agreed that Garcia-Allen will talk to PennDOT about the options that might be available to the borough to address the safety concerns.
Council member Peggy Russell reminded the public that No Mow May applications are available for those residents wishing to sign up.
The comment was also made that the Chester Water Authority will have its case heard on May 14 before the Pennsylvania Supreme Court.
The next council meeting will be held on April 21 at 7 p.m. at the Borough Hall.
Curry Farm in Landenberg hosts fifth annual free tree giveaway
By Richard L. Gaw Staff Writer
This past Saturday, for the fifth consecutive year, a new kind of tradition in southern Chester County was renewed in perfect harmony with the arrival of Spring.
Wading through the pastures of the Curry Farm that were muddy from a recent drenching, a steady stream of visitors attended the farm’s annual native tree giveaway and celebration, where they sorted through and selected many of the 250 free trees and shrubs that were available to take home, including WitchHazel, Loblolly Pine, Willow Oak, River Birch,
Indigobush, Serviceberry, Pawpaw, Persimmon, Silver Maple, Hazelnut, Red Oak, Elderberry, Sugar Maple and varieties of Willow.
“There are a lot of missions behind the native tree giveaway,” said Shane Palko, the owner of Curry Farm and a musician who has released 15 studio albums and performed his unique indie folk at official concerts in 31 countries across six continents. “I want to take care of some of the carbon I’ve created by touring to more than 30 countries. Another is the chance to build community, human and non-human. When I plant a tree, I love the place even more and we want to give people the
chance to plant native trees and get attached to their own landscapes.”
The event also included an appearance by Dale Hendricks, the owner of Green Light Plants, who shared information with those who attended about planting native landscapes; musical performances by singer-songwriter Skyler Cumbia and 841 Collective, a band made up of musicians who live along Route 841 in southeastern Pennsylvania; and an art exhibit by Will Ramirez, a freelance artist and graphic designer based in Wilmington, Del.
Palko, a native of southeastern Pennsylvania, said that the Curry Farm has a special meaning to him, especially after returning from his often-grueling touring schedule.
“It’s the first time I have ever felt at home, even though I grew up here, and
part of being home is having a rich community,” he said. “We’re creating space for biodiversity and diversity for the community to come and feel safe here.
“When people interact
with their own landscapes, they meet others who care just the same, and the connections of these people who bring their passion to this event grows with each passing year.”
To learn more about Shane Palko’s music, visit www.shanepalko.com.
To contact Staff Writer Richard L. Gaw, email rgaw@chestercounty.com.
Photos by Richard L. Gaw
Beth and Noel Wise of Landenberg were among the many visitors who attended the fifth annual free tree giveaway at Curry Farm in Landenberg on April 12.
Shane Palko with his fiancée, Hen Bellman.
Gwen Dalphon and her husband, Drew Pinto arrived from Chesapeake City, Md.
Landenberg residents Caitlin Keenan and her husband, Jason prepare to take home a Willow planting.
Will Ramirez, a Wilmington freelance artist and graphic designer, arranges an exhibit of his work at the event.
