Bailey, Presnell seek to fill Leff’s seat on Kennett Township board
By Richard L. Gaw Staff Writer
On the afternoon of Oct.
4, 2021, the day former Township Manager Lisa Moore was sentenced and taken into custody on five counts stemming from her embezzlement of more than $3.2 million from Kennett Township beginning in 2013 and ending in 2019,
all three of the township’s supervisors were in attendance in the West Chester courtroom: Scudder Stevens, Whitney Hoffman and Richard Leff.
Over the next few years, Stevens, Hoffman and Leff pieced the township back together with the help of intelligent hirings and tightened financial regulations, but in November
2021, Geoffrey Gamble defeated Hoffman in the general election, and in January of 2023, Stevens declared that he would not seek a third term on the board and was eventually replaced by Patricia Muller, who defeated her opponent Steve Lucas in November of 2023. With his recent declaration that he will not seek
By Betsy Brewer Brantner Contributing Writer
The 2025 Municipal Primary Election will take place on Tuesday, May 20. This report is intended to give voters more information about the candidates running for Oxford Borough Council. Each candidate was sent the same questions to answer regarding their candidacy. They also had the option of not answering some of the questions or adding additional information.
Oxford Borough Council has four seats up for elec-
tion for 2025. The Primary Election will determine who is on the ballot for the November election.
Incumbent council members Luke Neidigh and Peggy Ann Russell are not seeking re-election.
Incumbents Amanda Birdwell and Bob Ketcham, both Democrats, are seeking another term. Matthew Harper, a Republican, and Michael Brandt and Melody Boston Griffin, both Democrats, are running for council for the first time. Here’s a look at the candidates:
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a third term as supervisor, Leff’s departure leaves one seat to fill on the township’s board to join Gamble and Muller beginning in 2026, and in advance of the May 20 primary election, two candidates –Republican Boyd Presnell and Democrat Mike Bailey – have already begun their campaigns to replace Leff on the township’s board.
Presnell: priority-based budgeting
A lifelong county resident and former U.S. Marine, Presnell, a branch operations supervisor for the Toro Company, is president of his homeowners’ association Board of Directors at Longwood Crossing, where he and his wife, Michele have raised their two sons.
Over the course of his 26 years of involvement, he and the board have supervised and managed the community’s maintenance, safety, spending and financial budgets and capital improvements. If he is elected, one of Presnell’s key initiatives will be to extend the township’s mission to make the
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by Marcella Peyre-Ferry
The featured race of the day was the $35,000 Willowdale Steeplechase.
monwealth
In 2022, nearly 41 percent of Pennsylvania’s residents were at or below ALICE-
By Marcella Peyre-Ferry Contributing Writer
The Willowdale Steeplechase races, a beloved Mother’s Day weekend tradition for many, took place on a bright, beautiful, and breezy day on May 10. The races are a tradition for many of the spectators who tailgate on the fields overlooking the racecourse.
One of those spectators this year was 88-year-old Frank Ranhofer of Chester Springs and his family who
have been enjoying the same spot near the water jump for at least eight years.
“It’s a good chance for the family to get together,” he said. “Mary and I still deal with five horses of our own, and I still ride occasionally. It’s outdoors, it’s real racing and the people who own the horses really like the horses.”
Frank’s daughter Mary Saunders said, “I like that all people can be here and have fun. There’s something for everybody.”
Continued on Page 3A
Courtesy photo
State Sen. Christina Sappey
Photo
Kennett Township board...
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municipality “a friendly place” for families and businesses by making the township more affordable and establishing Traditional Neighborhood Developments (TND).
“I will bring a blue collar, common-sense background to the board,” he said. “Moving forward, my guidance would be toward advocating all demographics of the township, not just the upper class and those who live in the higherpriced homes, but those in our township who need affordable housing.”
Presnell wishes to see the township focus more on priority-based budgeting, with emphasis on maintaining and improving infrastructure, as well as continuing its efforts to preserve open space for future generations.
“There has to be a decision about how much we are going to spend, and how much it will cost to obtain public use of that property,” he said. “The Planning
Willowdale Steeplechase...
Continued from Page 1A
This year’s theme for the races was The Wicked Wild West at Willowdale. While most of the tailgaters follow the year’s theme or a foxhunting and racing theme, there are a few others who blaze their own path.
The tailgate of Bob and Leslie Carpenter was an eye-catcher with a pair of beavers topping their pickup truck.
“We would go to these other horse races, and I would see these extravagant tailgates set up with foxes in the middle of the tailgate. I don’t really like foxes,” Bob said.
“It’s something different to enhance the tailgate,”
Commission needs to do the background research to find out if it is feasible to spend taxpayers’ money on open space, and whether or not it will be usable.”
Bailey: Police, fire service and public works
For Bailey, who had a 44-year career in financial services, his primary reason for his candidacy to become the next Kennett Township Supervisors is in his words, a commitment “to maintaining Kennett Township as exceptional place to live and creating neighborhoods that we can all be proud of.”
If elected in November, Bailey will bring a generous list of skills he developed professionally that include sales, credit, operations, technology, problem-solving, planning collaboration and leadership. On the top of his priority list will be to oversee the use of technology to ease the township’s tax burden; improve the township’s wireless communications as an integral component of public safety communi-
cation during emergencies; boost economic development by attracting new businesses and supporting existing ones; and work with township stakeholders and staff in continuing to provide transparency and accountability.
“My diverse life experiences and achievements have helped develop the competencies and leadership qualities necessary to serve effectively as a supervisor,” Bailey said. “[I am seeking to become a supervisor] to make sure that government works effectively and efficiently, and that we spend our tax dollars wisely. There are certain priorities like open space that are a priority of mine, but when you look at the budget, most if it is around police, fire service and public works, and those three are the priorities that must be managed effectively.”
Brodowski and Unger campaign for reelection
In New Garden Township, incumbent supervisors
Bob and Leslie Carpenter with the beavers on top of the truck. Spectators enjoyed terrier races, pony races, children’s activities, shops, food and a classic car show, but the main focus was the card of six races over fences.
Leslie added. Leslie is a former race director of the Willowdale Steeplechase races. “It’s nice to be able to come and be a spectator and enjoy the day,” she said. Spectators enjoyed terrier races, pony races, children’s
activities, shops, food and a classic car show, but the main focus was the card of six races over fences.
On the other side of the fence, the featured race of the day, the $35,000 Willowdale Steeplechase, was won by Mr. Fine
Kristie Brodowksi and David Unger are seeking their second, six-year term on the board, for a township that continues to dot its agenda with several longterm projects, such as the planning of New Garden Hills and the Smedley Preserve, as well as juggling ideas for the proposed
development of White Clay Point and a continued commitment to preserving open space.
Brodowski and Unger, both Democrats, are being opposed by Republican challengers Kathy Leary and Michael Norris, to determine who will round out a board that is also made up of
and
ends on Jan.
To contact Staff Writer Richard L. Gaw, email rgaw@chestercounty.com.
A look at the Oxford School Board candidates
By Betsy Brewer Brantner Contributing Writer
The Pennsylvania Municipal Primary Election will take place on Tuesday, May 20. This report is intended to give voters more information about the candidates running for the Oxford School Board. Each candidate was sent the same questions to answer regarding their candidacy. They also had the option of not answering some of the questions or adding additional information.
Some candidates crossfiled (they are running on the Democratic and Republican ticket). Some candidates have chosen to seek the nomination only as a Democrat or as a Republican.
You can get more information and sample ballots by going to www.chesco. org and clicking on the Voter Services page.
Oxford School Board
At-Large (Vote for 1)
Andrew Atkinson (D and R)
Yami Fernandez (D and R)
Oxford School Board –
Region 1 (Vote for 1)
Andrew Peters (D and R)
Jennifer Kehs (R)
Oxford School BoardRegion 2 (Vote for 1)
Mary Higgins (D and R)
John Deecki (R)
Oxford School Board – Region 2- 2-year unexpired term (Vote for 1)
Sean Grugan (D and R)
Chauncey Boyd (R)
Oxford School Board –Region 3 (Vote for 1)
David Trimble (D and R)
Yami Fernandez (D and R) Mike Blessington (R)
Andrew Atkinson
Andrew Atkinson has lived in Oxford since 1986. Atkinson served on the Oxford Borough Council from 2007 to 2011. He has served on the Civil Service Commission for the last six years. He also previously served on the Arts Alliance Board of Directors.
Atkinson listed a variety of reasons for running for the school board.
“My own three kids are in school and I am interested in advocating for them as well as their other classmates. That’s actually the reason I didn’t run for borough council again. I didn’t want to short-change them,” he said. “I think there are some people that believe that local officials are get-
ting paid. We don’t,” he explained. “We are willing to put the time in and face scrutiny for our decisions, without receiving pay. I’m doing this to do what is best for the community. I want to help the school district. I would like to think we can reach across the aisle and work with everyone.”
Atkinson is running for the four-year, at-large position which includes the borough and other municipalities.
Atkinson said that he feels test scores are one of many brief snapshots of the district.
Regarding school funding, Atkinson said that he would like to see the state improve its funding formula to ensure that school districts like Oxford receive a fair amount of funding.
“That is where advocacy is important,” he said. “It is important to talk to State Senator (Carolyn) Comitta or State Representative (John) Lawrence and see what is available to help us.”
Atkinson has been an educator for 23 years. He has a master’s degree in counseling and took an academic sabbatical to work with the administration in the Avon Grove School District. He worked with the elementary school principal and another administrator. School safety
is one of his top issues that he is concerned about.
“It’s not just the physical safety but emotional safety as well,” he said. “We need to ensure both physical and emotional safety for the students and the staff. I want to create the best conditions for learning.”
When asked if equity was a concern, he said, “We need to create the best conditions for learning for all students. Avon Grove has a unified sports program and it is amazing to watch. It was created by Special Olympics. There definitely needs to be a unified classroom culture. Students who have special needs should be able to work along with student athletes in competition with other schools.
Atkinson said it is important to help both the students and parents in the Oxford Area School District. It is important to have conversations and to be a good listener, he said.
When asked if he has concerns about the school district, Atkinson said, “I definitely want to do better. What can we do to create the best conditions for learning? It’s not just about learning in the classroom. We need to support student athletes and those involved in academic competitions and to encourage all stu-
dents to be civil with each other. We need to promote leadership skills as well.”
Atkinson said that if any changes need to be made, it is important to do so collaboratively.
“There are many great things about the Oxford School District,” he said.
“We saw that during the recent fire in Oxford.
Students, teachers and administrators. I was happy to see how the school district, administration and students rallied to help the fire victims. We had a community partnership with the Lighthouse Youth Center and Oxford Educational Foundation. There was such a spirit of collaboration.”
Yami Fernandez
Yami Fernandez is running for the at-large district and a Region 3 seat. Her reason for running is simple.
“Honestly, I care way too much about our students, families, and community to just sit on the sidelines,” she said. “We need strong, accountable leadership that prioritizes academic excellence, responsible spending, and transparency. Basically, someone who can balance a budget and still remember to cheer at the school play.”
Fernandez added, “As a parent and longtime resi-
dent, I’ve seen what makes our schools amazing (like our dedicated teachers) and where we could use a little extra TLC (like maybe fewer meetings about meetings). With my experience in school district operations, I’m ready to roll up my sleeves and make sure our schools focus on what really matters: core academics, supporting our teachers, and reflecting the values that make this community so special. Let’s make it happen with less red tape and more real results.” When asked how crucial the school board is to the community, Fernandez said, “They are the ones who decide how the schools run, everything from budgets to policies to making sure every kid gets a fair shot. It’s like being the captain of a ship, steering the whole district toward success. And since I’m running for the school board, I’m ready to bring my experience and ideas to the table.
“I want to make sure our schools are not just good but great, and that every student feels seen and supported. Plus, I think my background in education and community work gives me a unique perspective to help bridge gaps and build connections.”
Photos by Marcella Peyre-Ferry
Spectators Alison Saunders, Frank Ranhofer, Carly Saunders, Nate Butcher, and Mary Saunders enjoyed the 2025 Willowdale Steeplechases.
Threads in a dramatic, come-from-behind finish. Mr. Fine Threads is owned by Armata Stables, is trained by Joseph Davies
and was ridden to victory by jockey Charlie Marshall. Proceeds from Willowdale Steeplechases benefits Stroud Water
Research Foundation and the University of Pennsylvania’s School of Veterinary Medicine New Bolton Center.
Photos by Richard L. Gaw
Republican Boyd Presnell, left, and Democrat Mike Bailey have declared their
respective candidacies to replace two-term Kennett Township Board of Supervisor Richard Leff on the board in Jan. 2026.
Democrats Troy Wildrick and Ted Gallivan, whose current terms end on Jan. 1, 2028,
Republican Steve Allaband, whose most recent term on the board
1, 2030.
Local News
Fernandez has lived in Oxford for 15 years.
“I feel I’ve officially earned the right to complain about traffic on Market Street and have strong opinions about the best local coffee spot,” she said. “But more importantly, over the years, I’ve built deep connections in this community and remain committed to helping it grow and thrive.
“Oxford isn’t just where I live, it’s home. I’m all in when it comes to making sure Oxford continues to be the best place for families, students, and anyone who appreciates a good hometown feel.”
Fernandez has not previously held an elected office in Oxford. However, she has been actively involved in the community through her professional work and volunteer efforts.
“I am committed to bringing my experience and dedication to public service through this opportunity,” Fernandez said.
For the past seven years, Fernandez has been a member of the Oxford Educational Foundation, working to champion educational initiatives and support students in reaching their full potential. Along the way, she has also been deeply involved in shaping the future of the Oxford Area School District by serving on several comprehensive planning committees. Through this work, she has helped develop long-term goals and strategies to foster growth and improvement across the district.
Fernandez wants the people of Oxford to not just see, but celebrate, the incredible contributions Latinos have made and continue to make in every corner of this community.
“We’re not just part of the story in agriculture; we’re part of the story in its growth, success, and heart,” she said. “Our voices, our values, and our stories deserve a seat at the table, and I’m here to make sure that happens. Let’s bring some fresh energy and representation to the boardroom.”
She also believes in the importance of test scores.
“They really matter,” she said. “They are one of the clearest ways we can see if our students are truly learning the skills they need to thrive. In the Oxford Area School District, we can’t afford to brush them aside or treat them like just another box to check. Test scores tell a story: they highlight what we’re doing well, but more importantly, they show us where we’re falling short.”
Andrew Peters
Andrew Peters is running for a seat on the Oxford School Board to ensure that Oxford’s students get the best education as safely and efficiently as possible.
He said, “I grew up here and graduated from Oxford Area High School in 2008. I moved back with my family in 2015 after four years in Philadelphia. I have two children in the school district, and I have worked in the community for most of the last eight years as a healthcare professional.”
Peters continued, “I want to support our teachers, and I want to be a voice
for every constituent in my region. At the end of the day, I saw an opportunity to give back to a community that has given me a lot, and I decided to take it.”
Peters believes the school board is essential to the function of public schools in setting policy and overseeing the allocation of resources. The success or failure of the district is ultimately dependent on these policies. He also feels that test scores can be a useful surface level tool, but that they are ultimately a deeply flawed way to accurately measure education quality as currently constructed.
As far as funding goes, Peters said, “I do not disagree with the Pennsylvania Supreme Court’s finding that our school district is not adequately funded.”
School safety is a concern for him.
“No child should be afraid to go to school, and no parent should be afraid of sending their child to school,” he said, adding that equity is also a concern.
“As a school board director, I will do everything in my power to ensure that every child gets an equal opportunity to be successful,” he said. “I am greatly concerned about fringe partisan politics getting in the way of the issues that matter. The school board is not meant to be a partisan institution, and should be focused on supporting the students and teachers, and not a political agenda.”
Peters said there are many good aspects about the Oxford School District.
“The Oxford Area School District supports a diverse community with students from a wide variety of backgrounds,” he said. “We have passionate stakeholders and dedicated teachers who want the best for every student regardless of their background.”
Jennifer Kehs
Jennifer Kehs is running as a Republican candidate for Region 1. She did not respond to the request for information for this story.
Mary Higgins
Mary Higgins has crossfiled and is running in Region 2. She moved to Oxford Borough in August of 2015, and was elected to the Oxford Borough Council in 2019. She served until late 2022. During that time, she served on the Personnel Committee, the Borough Manager Search Committee and the Oxford Borough Long Range Planning Committee. Higgins also worked with the Oxford Borough Planning Commission and the Advisory Committee on Latino Affairs.
“I am a product of public schools and realize what a gift public schools have been for my children, family, friends, and grandchildren,” she said. “In those public schools, we were personally enriched by dedicated teachers and staff whose job was to share their love of their specialties. Along the way, I personally found lifelong knowledge in terms of the facts, but just as importantly, those teachers helped me find my empowered voice. “I have used that voice ever since, to support causes that make this a better world. I consider myself a lifelong learner and live in gratitude for that truth.” Higgins feels strongly that
the school board is very important to a community.
“The School Board is the ear, voice, wisdom and guide for the children who will one day serve this community,” she said. “We all stand on the shoulders of those who came before us. Someone else paid their taxes, so you and I could learn. Others put themselves out to make sure the chorus I sang in had teachers. Many of us learned to cooperate by being on a sports team, and we learned about fair play and the power of having a great coach to guide us. I have seen kids surpass their academic abilities and go on to be who they dreamed of becoming.
“The School Board is one place where the excellence we hope for is played out for all to see. We will not always agree on the best solution to every problem, but how we work together will be the mark of our success.”
Speaking on the issue of school taxes, Higgins said, “I do not think we could tax enough to make a system that fulfills its mission to maximize the learning potential of each child. I think the role of the school board is to use the taxes we receive for the good of college-bound and non-college-bound students alike so they have the basic skills necessary to pursue their life goals.”
Higgins graduated from Lesley University with a degree in psychology and went onto Seminary at Lancaster Theological Seminary to study for the ministry. In the course of ministry, she was responsible for large regions of churches where she did mission and vision facilitation, policy governance development, leadership development, conflict resolutions and more.
Safe schools are important to her.
“I believe that schools ought to be the safest places our children can be,” she said. “There is no place there for incivility, bullying, fighting, weapons, or self-harm.”
Higgins does have a concern about the Oxford School District.
“I am concerned that the political division of our town and our country sometimes makes it impossible to work for the best solutions to our problems.”
Chauncey Boyd
Chauncey Boyd is running as a Republican for a two-year unexpired term in Region 2. He identified some of his qualifications and priorities, including the following:
• Lifelong resident of Oxford.
• Past board member of the Oxford Area Chamber of Commerce and past member of the Oxford School Board for 8 years, including 7 years as board president.
• It’s time to financially “right the ship” and get taxes under control.
• Regain transparency.
• Eliminate the woke agenda in schools and eliminate DEI.
• Local offices such as the school board are important because members must ensure student safety and that there is a balanced education to all legally enrolled students.
• Test scores are very important for students needing or wanting to extend
their formal education. Also puts your district in a favorable or unfavorable position with the community, and surrounding areas and adds to more or less federal and state funding.
• State taxes could fund districts adequately, if the taxes were distributed on a balanced basis. I don’t want my tax dollars supporting failing Philadelphia or larger city schools.
• School safety is paramount for all persons in our schools.
• There should be equity in schools, and if you are a legal, registered student or employee then all should be treated the same or as equals.
Boyd identified his biggest concerns as the safety and welfare for all students and staff, spending efficiently and wisely and keeping taxes within the public’s ability to afford them, and controlling the excessive salaries of the superintendent, assistant superintendent and the business administrator.
Boyd said that he would make changes in the administration of the school district, and he would draft a 3-year, 5-year, and 8-year plan for facility improvements. He would want to have the lacrosse, soccer, football, and baseball fields fixed immediately.
He identified the best things about the Oxford Area School District as the following:
• Excellent teachers and support staff.
• Newer facilities and buildings are in fairly good condition with some needed smaller repairs.
• Excellent band and sports programs.
• Great students with many standout athletes and excellent academic students learning and preparing to lead Oxford forward into the future.
Sean Grugan
Sean Grugan is running for the two-year, unexpired term in Region 2.
He graduated from Oxford in 1996 and, after living in Maryland and South Carolina, moved back to Oxford with his family in 2018. He has not held a political office up to this point, but he was elected as the vice president of the Oxford Music Boosters in 2024, and he continues to be a member of that organization. Grugan is running for the Oxford School Board to “bring common sense, accountability and teamwork back to the board, while remembering the mission and vision of the district.”
He explained, “I will help all students achieve academic excellence in a safe, nurturing environment with the kids first, progress and unity vision.”
Grugan believes the school board has to create policies that guarantee all students of the district have access to a high-quality education.
“I believe test scores are important, but they are not the only metric that should be used to judge the success of the school district,” Grugan said. “Equity is always a concern, because we need to make sure that all students have what they need to achieve academic excellence.”
Grugan plans to make sure everyone has a voice in the decision-making process.
“I feel all stakeholders
in the district deserve to have a voice that is heard when decisions are made that affect public education,” he said. “I will make myself available to students, parents and other stakeholders for questions, comments and concerns if I am elected.”
Grugan attended the University of South Carolina and worked in the athletic department at Cecil College. He said that he would prioritize school safety and transparency.
Grugan said, “School safety is always at the top of the list for concerns for students, teachers and staff. Our current staff of resource officers are always present and do a great job. We need to make sure that they are always supported with strong safety policies.”
He pledged to bring “a sense of non-partisan teamwork to the school board.
I see a lot of good in the Oxford School District, especially the overall sense of community.”
Grugan also pointed to many achievements by students as reasons to be proud about the school district.
“The class of 2025 is exemplary, with graduates going to Yale and Cornell along with a long list of other colleges and universities,” he said. “The generous amount of local scholarships awarded to the class of 2025 should also be noted. The district has also been awarded “Best Communities for Music Education” for the last three years. The continued success of the athletic programs is great. Recently, an Oxford graduate has become the youngest graduate in Neumann University history because of programs available while she was a student in the district.”
John Deecki
John Deecki is running as Republican for Region 2. He has lived in West Nottingham for 25 years. Although, he has not held other elected offices, he is anxious to be on the Oxford School Board and do what is right for the children.
Deecki feels strongly that the district is headed in the wrong direction.
“I feel the administration wants what they want and not what is best for the students at the Oxford School District,” he said. “The futures of the students are at stake, not the future of the teachers,” he said.
Deecki added that, “Testing should be the most important because it shows how much the students are learning and comprehending.”
Deecki is concerned about how the tax money is used.
“There is mold in the schools every year. Penn’s Grove had mold in the auditorium for most of the year a couple of years ago. Jordan Bank shouldn’t have of been closed for two weeks at the beginning of the year. Fix the schools the right way,” he said. He also has concerns about some of the books in the school libraries.
“Students are not getting the help with the work they have,” he said. “Changes are made by everyone on the board, not just by one person. But there are many changes that do need to be taken care of.”
He holds an Associates Degree in criminal justice and graduated from the Police Academy.
“I hold certificates in Fire
1 and Fire 2 along with many other certifications,” he said.
School safety is important to Deecki.
“I feel it is great to have armed officers in the schools if they are properly vetted,” he said.
He added that, if he is elected to the school board, “I will help the district by making the best decisions I can for everyone.”
David Trimble
David Trimble has crossfiled in Region 3. He did not respond by deadline.
Mike Blessington
Mike Blessington, an incumbent on the school board, has lived in Nottingham for 21 years. He said, “I joined the school board four years ago to help get kids back in school after the disaster and mismanagement by the department of education during the pandemic.
Blessington continued, “I have been alerted to pornographic and sexually explicit books in our library. I ended up chairing the policy committee to set up new guidelines to keep inappropriate books from getting into our library in the future. We also worked on an easier way to challenge such books when they accidentally get past our stringent guardrails.”
He also said, “I would like to focus on increasing grade levels and retention of teachers. I believe teachers are leaving because they don’t feel appreciated or supported. I have been asking for an exit poll with no responses from the current administration.
He added, “The school board is very important. The future of our country comes from a well-educated student striving for more. Reading, writing, arithmetic, history, and science are fundamentals to get our kids ready for the world.”
He feels the school district gets plenty of funding from the taxpayers and said the district needs to be more accountable with it and stay within the budget.
Blessington said, “Having three sisters who have spent a combined 75 years teaching, I picked up a few things from them. I also have two children that graduated with high rankings and went on to college—graduating with awesome grades.”
Blessington said he wants the education at Oxford to be the envy of all the schools in Pennsylvania.
“I want the teachers to have the tools to succeed and the children to have the best circumstances to achieve with an incredibly strong foundation at the Oxford Area School District,” he explained. “My biggest concern I have with the Oxford schools are our teachers having support from our administrators and support of the school board to set our district above like the champion I know we can be.
“We need to challenge ourselves and our students to do better. The board needs to do better. The superintendent needs to do better. Our grades have got to get better. I want our school to at least be in the top 100 in our state. We are paying our Superintendent top-40 money, we should be a top-40 producer. We seem to spend more time on minutia and less on results. Let’s get results.”
The coins he carries
Tragedy has a way of spinning grief into the purest form of eloquence.
On June 22, 2024, 31-year-old Philadelphia police officer Jaime Roman was shot in the line of duty while patrolling the streets of the city’s Kensington section. The alleged shooter, Ramon Rodriguez Vazquez, fled the scene on foot when officers included Roman questioned him about a gun holster found in his vehicle, but then turned back and started shooting at them with a gun he had in his waistband. Roman was hit in the neck and was taken to a hospital.
He died on Sept. 10, 2024, leaving behind his wife Jasmine – also a Philadelphia police officer - and two young children.
The story of Jamie Roman again took center stage on May 5, when the 30th annual Pennsylvania Fraternal Order of Police Annual Memorial Service took place at the rotunda of the Capitol Building in Harrisburg. Among those attending the service were Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker, Philadelphia Police Commissioner Kevin Bethel and many elected officials from around the Commonwealth. They were there to honorably and without party affiliation respect those law enforcement officers who have given the ultimate sacrifice for the citizens of the Commonwealth.
As Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro began his comments by thanking whom he called “a bipartisan group” coming together to support the heroes “who literally run toward danger while others run in the opposite direction,” that included the Pennsylvania Fraternal Order of Police, State Attorney General Dave Sunday and Col. Christopher Paris, the head of the Pennsylvania State Police.
Shapiro then turned his attention to a small boy –Jaime Roman, Jr. - who was sitting with his mother at the ceremony, whom Shapiro had just met.
“I especially love the way Jaime, Jr. tore through my challenge coins on the table in my office,” he said. “The coins he took off the shelf that had the pictures of those who had fallen as heroes – those were the coins he was most attracted to, picking out the heroes who served us and made the ultimate sacrifice.
“Jaime, those were heroes just like your daddy, who was a hero to you, to your mom, to the city, and to an entire community who relied on him to keep us safe. He was so special, and Jaime, you are so special. All of these people came here today so that you know that you are loved, your daddy was loved and that your mommy is going to keep on being loved for years and years to come because everyone here is going to be there for you.”
Then he turned toward Jasmine.
“I want you to know that I am grateful for Sergeant Roman’s service – for the service of all of those who choose to wear the uniform every day,” he said, “and while my heart breaks for you, I hope you also know that in all of the people’s hearts here is a piece of your husband, who served us with distinction and served a life of service to this great commonwealth.”
As his time at the podium was ending, Shapiro then chose to speak directly into the face of partisan divide that our country now accepts as our common language, where the warring factions thrash about in a hornet’s nest of accusations and blame. He could have chosen what has become a tiresome and familiar route in our modern politics. He could have pointed a finger in the direction of the Republican party, or to those in public office who disagree with his policies and his principles.
Rather, Shapiro chose principle over party, dignity over disruption, and his words reverberated beautifully throughout the cavernous rotunda.
“The family that you have now is a family that we will always look after - today, tomorrow, next month, next year, next decade,” he said, addressing the families of fallen police officers in the audience. “As I have said to each of you in moments of privacy, we will always be there for you, not just to support you, but to honor your loved one’s memory not just with words and important moments like today, but to honor with action.
“You are joined here today by the members of the Pennsylvania Senate and the Pennsylvania HouseRepublicans and Democrats, alike - and when they go back and they vote in their chambers they’ve honored you with action – honored you by funding the hiring of more police officers than ever before in the Commonwealth, honored you by funding violence prevention initiatives that is bringing crime down in the commonwealth and protecting the lives of those who work our streets, both in uniform and to and from their schools.”
Shapiro gave Jaime Roman, Jr. the permission to walk into any elected official’s office in Harrisburg and take as many challenge coins as he wants. It is our hope that Jaime, Jr. takes the governor up on his offer and that the coins he collects and eventually carries someday remind him that dignity, respect and courage – the hallmarks that defined his father – are also forever hallmarks of human decency and our highest form of eloquence.
An open letter to the Republican voters of London Grove South
Dear Residents:
I’m writing to alert you to a serious concern involving our local Republican committee members, Sandy Bowman and Jerry Lamastra.
These individuals were elected to represent our values and inform Republican voters about the candidates on the ballot. Instead, they’ve taken it upon themselves to promote a school board candidate whose background raises serious questions — and who, by all appearances, was never properly vetted.
In a recent literature drop distributed door-to-door, Bowman and Lamastra endorsed an individual for school board without any public discussion or transparency. A basic online search reveals a recent personal bankruptcy, as well as a disturbing legal document alleging serious misconduct during the candidate’s time as a police officer in Darby Township — involving an African American resident. Even more alarming, public records indicate the candidate may also be the subject of a Protection From Abuse (PFA) order.
These facts should concern every voter — especially in a school district as diverse as ours, where our children deserve thoughtful, qualified leadership.
Let’s be clear: school board directors oversee an almost $100 million public education budget and make decisions that affect curriculum, safety, staffing, and long-term planning. Promoting a candidate with this kind of background, without proper vetting, is not just irresponsible — it’s a disservice to the community.
What other candidates are these two renegade committee people supporting without doing their homework? This should give every Republican voter in London Grove serious pause. As Republicans, we expect our committee people to act with judgment, integrity, and transparency. That hasn’t happened here. You deserve to know the truth. And you deserve better.
Respectfully,
Celebrate and honor trains
By Chris Barber
Trains share the month of May with many other days that get recognized at a national level.
We found one lengthy and popular list that includes Salami Day and Cheese Pizza Day, among others.
National Train Day, however, which was celebrated on May 10, outshines them by miles—many miles, in fact.
This is why: On this date—May 10—in 1869, the U.S. marked the completion of the first transatlantic railroad.
More specifically, the railroad tracks from the west finally joined the railroad tracks from the east in Summit, Utah.
Crowds gathered to mark the event that day with the ceremonial hammering of a gold spike at the connection point.
There are many reasons to celebrate this day, even now, especially in the southeastern Pennsylvania region, where its residents watch the East Penn Railroad carry essential freight past them daily with its characteristic whistle at every road crossing. Rolling by in those cars are sugar for our Tastykakes, propane to heat our houses and corn for our crunchy potato chips.
If you need more incentives to mark the importance of Train Day, here are a few.
The first is that, as America grew, even from its very start, trains paralleled the nation’s growth and reflected its historic spirit year-by-year.
President Thomas Jefferson recognized the country’s destiny from the very beginning as he sent his explorers, Lewis and Clark, to investigate the western lands of the country by way of their water—the Missouri River. That big
canoe trip is still known as “The Corps of Discovery.”
As these long-ago explorers traveled, they even had the courtesy to send a member of their crew back to Jefferson with a new animal they found along the way: a prairie dog.
Then, as trains were developed to bear those loads over the land rather than the water, they stepped in to enable the nation to move westward and develop even more.
The second is that the construction of the train bodies, which are huge, heavy, made of metal and challenging to construct, reflect the spirit of Americans to work hard to develop technology to overcome challenges.
From the very beginning of this nation, with the likes of Benjamin Franklin and other creative thinkers, Americans are characteristically obsessed with finding new ways of doing things.
Amazingly, the first trains even pre-dated the first cars. Along the way, the rail track construction workers, albeit low-paid immigrants, were able to put together
a railroad bridge over the Mississippi River in 1856 and lay down tracks that made their way over the treacherous geography of the Rocky Mountains. And when those tracks met, they came together perfectly –west to east.
The cars didn’t show up until 1885.
The third reason we celebrate National Train Day is somewhat magical.
Trains, both passenger and freight, carry with them a charm that no other means of transportation has.
People don’t take a “sentimental journey” on a helicopter, and Arlo Guthrie doesn’t sing that a Chevy is the nation’s “Native Son.”
Additionally, model trains and their sets historically have surpassed planes, cars, ships or and even rocket ships as the toy children never seem to outgrow as they get older.
Many adults still have their old trains, and they play with them in their cellars.
People still take pictures of trains. There are probably more
romantic songs written about trains than any other form of transportation.
(“Don’t you know me, I’m your native son?” – Steve Goodman, “The City of New Orleans”).
Folks still stop to watch trains when they are passing by.
Grownups not only save these “magic carpets made of steel,” but they even keep buying new toy ones from Lionel, which lately has offered for sale little boxcars that contain the modern phenomenon of train art/graffiti.
What is it about trains that tugs at our hearts?
Is it the ability to sit in a train and feel relaxed, have a snack, and observe the scenery without the interruptions of traffic jams?
Is it the chance to view and appreciate the vast variety and wonder the nation’s geographic growth and creativity has yielded?
The answer may be elusive.
But wherever that charm comes from, May 10 is undeniably a great time to celebrate trains.
Courtesy photo
Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shaipiro with Philadelphia Police Officer Jasmine Roman and her son, Jaime, Jr.
A Concerned Republican London Grove Township
Courtesy photo
Modern crowds gather to celebrate the anniversary of the hammering of the railroad “Golden Spike” in a recent photo published by the U.S. National Park Service.
Friends Home in Kennett celebrates completion of four new raised gardens
By Chris Barber Contributing Writer
The residents of the Friends Home in Kennett are on the road to eating more home-grown vegetables coming from their newly completed raised gardens.
On April 22, residents and staff gathered to cut the ribbon on the impressive garden complex which now stands ready to grow tomatoes, lettuce, peppers and eggplants.
There are four of these structures, lined up twoby-two and filled with dirt on the west lawn of the building.
The growing bed lies at waist-level, so gardeners don’t have to struggle on their hands and knees to attend to the plants.
Those attending the ceremony included members of the Friends Home Garden Club, including Ed Johnson, 90, who has for several years led the gardening activities and was called upon to cut the ribbon.
He said in the course of his pre-retirement life, he worked in many greenhouses in New Jersey.
Johnson said that he has grown asparagus, which takes two years to be mature and be ready for eating.
Other members of the Friends Home Garden Club include Dorothy Meht, Eileen Jennings, Toni Edeiken, Janice Ward, Marion Culbertson and Lillian Council, who stood by to hold the ribbon as Johnson cut it.
Attending to gardens is not new to the Friends Home residents. They already have a flower garden and a hearty vegetable garden sitting just off Linden Hall – the skillednursing wing of the facility. The hearty plant garden there provides them with herbs and other plants that are comfortable in cooler conditions.
The new garden is suited for the growing of warm weather plants.
After the ribbon-cutting, the group gathered at that patio off Linden Hall for
refreshments.
According to marketing and admissions director Christina Johnston, it was Christine McDonald who had the original vision for the gardens as part of the Home’s Montessori Lifestyle Program.
McDonald serves as the Executive Director of the Friends Home in Kennett.
Johnston added that the kitchen staff was interested as well in adding to their supply of organic and locally grown vegetables. Montessori education is widely viewed as offering
activities rather than formal education methods for learning and socialization.
Johnston said the cost of the new gardens was $26,000, and that funding was provided by contributions and grants.
The building of the gardens was done by New London Construction owner Junior Villagomez. Also on hand for the ribbon cutting was organic book author Pat Muccigrosso. A resident of Upper Oxford, she is an enthusiastic gardener and volunteer.
All photos by Chris Barber
Longtime Friends Home gardener Ed Johnson cuts the ribbon on the new raised garden.
A garden for flowers and other plants sits in the patio adjacent to Linden Hall.
The Friends Home in Kennett sits on the hill along West State Street in Kennett Square.
Ed Johnson stands among the newly opened raised gardens at the Friends Home.
Residents and gardeners get together for refreshments after the ribbon cutting at the new raised gardens.
A hearty plant garden grows plants that are comfortable in cooler conditions—like herbs.
Volunteer and gardening book author Pat Muccigrosso applauds as the ribbon is cut on the new gardens.
Leever to head CCIU's career, technical and customized education unit
The Chester County Intermediate Unit (CCIU) Board approved Dr. Steven Leever as its’ new director of career, technical & customized education. Dr. Leever will officially assume his new duties on July 10. With 36 years of distinguished experience across public, private, and international education, Dr. Leever brings exceptional leadership credentials to this critical role. He joins CCIU from his current position as superintendent of the Octorara Area School District, where he has demonstrated transformative leadership and implement-
ed strategic initiatives that have strengthened the district’s educational offerings. Dr. Leever’s career spans leadership positions in Pennsylvania public schools and international institutions in Dubai and Doha, where he developed expertise in systems thinking, fiscal management, and organizational leadership. Throughout his career, he has maintained an unwavering commitment to student growth, educational excellence, and continuous improvement.
CCIU Executive Director Dr. George Fiore expressed his enthusiasm by saying, “We are thrilled to welcome
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Dr. Steve Leever as the next director of career, technical & customized education at the CCIU. Dr. Leever brings an exceptional track record of leadership and a deep passion for career and technical education, clearly demonstrated through his work in building and championing Octorara’s CTE program. His experience, vision, and commitment to student success will be a tremendous asset to our leadership team and the communities we serve.”
When asked about his new position at CCIU, Dr. Leever responded, “What an honor to join CCIU. The Technical College
High Schools and Practical Nursing Program are leading programs in the state of Pennsylvania. I have long thought that CTE programs were the under-utilized secret sauce of American ingenuity. I look forward to helping build new and innovative programs that benefit the students and workforce of southeastern Pennsylvania.”
Dr. Leever is uniquely qualified to advance CCIU’s career and technical education (CTE) initiatives, having pioneered one of Pennsylvania’s few comprehensive in-district CTE models at Octorara Area School District—the
only program of its kind in Chester County. Under his leadership, the district developed 12 CTE programs aligned with industry needs, connecting students with certifications, handson learning experiences, and meaningful post-secondary pathways. The CCIU extends sincere gratitude to outgoing Director Dr. Joe Fullerton for his dedicated service and significant contributions to students, staff, and community partners, and wishes him continued success in his next professional chapter.
Dr. Leever will officially join CCIU this summer, continuing the organization’s commitment to
expanding student opportunities and strengthening partnerships with districts, businesses, and the broader community.
Courtesy photo Dr. Steven Leever has been named the new director of career, technical & customized education at the Chester County Intermediate Unit.
Comitta, Tankle, Truist receive YMCA Brandywine honors
Leaders, staff and volunteers from the YMCA of Greater Brandywine (YGBW) joined in celebration on April 23 at Penn Oaks Golf Club for the Breakfast of Champions— YGBW’s biggest volunteer recognition event of the year.
“What starts as an act of service becomes a reflection of who we are,” said Dr. Scott Heinerichs, Dean of the College of Health Sciences at West Chester University of Pennsylvania, who serves as interim board chair for YGBW.
“Volunteerism typically starts when someone asks – which is how I began my volunteer journey at the Y,” he continued.“ The initial ask got me connected with the Y – but the mission of the organization and the passion of the staff and my fellow volunteers is what keeps me coming back to serve.”
At the event, YGBW celebrated the impact that all its volunteers had on the community last year, including State Sen. Carolyn Comitta, Truist and Joe Tankle, and 23 branch volunteers of the year were recognized for their impactful contributions to the community.
Distinguished Service Award recipient Joe Tankle
The YMCA’s Distinguished Service
Annual recognition event celebrates the impact of volunteers
Award recognizes a dedicated volunteer and emphasizes the need for community service by all members of the community. Recipients of this award have set a standard of leadership that others follow.
“Joe Tankle is a steadfast advocate for the YMCA of Greater Brandywine,” said YGBW President and CEO Bertram L. Lawson II, who presented the Distinguished Service Award to Tankle. “He gives his time generously – fostering relationships, opening doors to donors and advancing our philanthropic efforts. Joe’s guidance has been instrumental in supporting me in my role, strengthening our organization’s leadership and impact.”
Tankle shared that his first role at the YMCA, very aptly, was as a volunteer. He was taken by the mission and wound up having a 35-year career in the YMCA movement, holding various leadership roles, including serving as the President and CEO of the Upper Main Line YMCA.
“I feel fortunate to have found a meaningful career, serving YMCAs in this region for more than 35 years,” Tankle said. “I am proud to lend my time and experience to the team at YGBW to extend the important work they are doing in the community.”
Service to Youth Award recipient State Sen. Carolyn Comitta
The YMCA’s Service to Youth Award recognizes individuals and organizations whose dedication and effort have made a significant and positive difference in the lives of children in the community.
“As a State Senator – and a mother and grandmother – I believe we have a duty to leave behind a cleaner, safer and healthier world for our next generation,” said Sen. Comitta. “I firmly believe that we bring out the best in each other when we serve young people in our community.”
YGBW chief branch operating officer Terri Edgar presented the Service to Youth Award to Sen. Comitta for her support of affordable childcare and dedication to STEM and Environmental education opportunities for local youth.
“Senator Comitta’s support of STEM education and career pathways and her work to expand access to quality childcare impacts our community in the best way possible,” said Edgar. “Whether advocating in Harrisburg, pursing grant opportunities or leading by example, families in Chester County can count on Senator Comitta.”
Community Partner Award | Truist
The YMCA Community Partner Award is given to an organization that has demonstrated a commitment to the Y’s mission and has strengthened the foundations of the community.
“At Truist, our purpose is to inspire and build better lives and communities,” explained Chad Leyden, market president at Truist. “We are proud to support the work being done at the Y to strengthen the fabric of our community.”
As a leading non-profit in the county, YGBW relies on the support of community partners, sponsors and donors. In 2024, YGBW awarded $2.6 million in financial assistance to ensure all in the community have the opportunity to access vital services when needed.
“Truist has supported our treasury functions and financial applications – and generously contributed EITC funds,” said YGBW chief financial
officer Rachel Firkser, who presented the Community Partner Award. “Their partnership supports the vital work being done at our branches today and into the future.”
Branch Volunteer of the Year Awards
During the event, 23 individuals were recognized as Volunteers of the Year, representing eight branches. Honors were given across three categories at each branch: Youth Development, Healthy Living and Social Responsibility. Award recipients serve many roles in the community – youth sports coaches, membership greeters, theater volunteers and more. Honorees include Eddie Jennings, Shannon Reynolds and Bob Reich from the Coatesville branch; Robyn Biehn, Joey Martinez, Llana Delevieleuse and Brian and Staci Zeller from the Jennersville branch; Jonna Pento, Nace Naumoski and Terry Thomas from the Kennett branch, Jeanne
Czubaroff, Dawn McNeil and Matt Smith from the Lionville branch; Tara Murdock from the Octorara Program Center; Ben Green, Liz Ruff and Mike Nichols from the Oscar Lasko branch; Jonathan and Laura DeJong, Jen Fulton and Rajiv Gupta from the Upper Main Line branch; and Matt Fenn, Laura Sansalone and Larry Wheeler from the West Chester Area branch.
“The YMCA would not exist without volunteers,” said Lawson. “Folks are often surprised to learn that volunteers helped to establish the YMCA globally and locally. And the power of volunteerism persists to this day. We are extremely grateful for our 5,015 volunteers who give their time, talent and treasure to the Y – in support of the Chester County community.”
Branch Volunteers of the Year award recipients pose with YGBW staff from the Coatesville, Jennersville, Kennett and Upper Main Line branches.
Courtesy photos
Joe Tankle receives a citation from State Sen. Carolyn Comitta in recognition of his service to the community.
State Sen. Carolyn Comitta receives YGBW’s Service to Youth Award, presented by Terri Edgar and Bertram L. Lawson II.
The team from Truist receives a citation from State Sen. Carolyn Comitta in recognition of their contributions to the community.
Dr. Scott Heinerichs speaks about the power of volunteerism during the Breakfast of Champions.
Young artists celebrated at high school art exhibition, congressional district competition
Art enthusiasts gathered on April 10 to celebrate student creativity at the Chester County High School Art Exhibition and PA 6th District Congressional Art Competition reception.
Held at the Chester County Art Association in West Chester, the exhibition showcased nearly 500 works – including sculptures, oil paintings, colored pencil pieces, and photography – created by students from across Chester County.
“We were proud to showcase the extraordinary talent of Chester County’s high school students in this year’s art exhibition,” said Kathy Gurnee, special events coordinator for the Chester County Intermediate Unit (CCIU).
“The diverse range of mediums and the creativity on display truly reflect
the hard work and passion these young artists bring to their craft.”
Students from the 6th Congressional District participating in the exhibition were also eligible to submit their artwork to U.S. Rep. Chrissy Houlahan’s Congressional Art Competition. This nationwide program, sponsored by U.S. House members each spring, awards the grand prize winner with the honor of having their artwork displayed in the U.S. Capitol for one year.
The public reception and awards ceremony marked the highlight of this year’s exhibition, honoring the numerous student artists whose work was selected for display. Awards were presented for both Representative Houlahan’s Congressional
Art Competition and the Chester County High School Art Exhibition, which was judged by the Chester County Art Association.
Jordan Wolfe of Exeter Township Senior High School was one of the students recognized during the reception, winning second place in the PA 6th District Congressional Art Competition. Her piece, titled A Contrast of Symbolism, will be proudly displayed in Representative Houlahan’s local office for one year.
“I’ve always loved art and I am so happy!” said Wolfe. When asked how it feels to have her artwork recognized in the competition, she answered, “Amazing! I never imagined myself in this situation, especially when I was younger.”
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This sale will occur as an online auction via www.storageauctions.com on 5/27/2025 at 10:00 AM.
Curtis Barger unit #58, Curtis Barger unit #59 Susan E Twaddell unit #64
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ESTATE NOTICE
ESTATE OF DONN KEVIN
BIRDSALL, DECEASED. Late of Oxford Borough, Chester County, PA, LETTERS TESTAMENTARY on the above Estate have been granted to the undersigned, who request all persons having claims or demands against the estate of the decedent to make known the same and all persons indebted to the decedent to make payment without delay to KRISTI ANN EISENBERG, EXECUTRIX, 1163 Kensington Ln., Apt. 2112, Oxford, PA 19363, Or to her Attorney: KRISTEN R. MATTHEWS, KRISTEN MATTHEWS LAW, 14 E. Welsh Pool Rd., Exton, PA 19341 4p-30-3t
ESTATE NOTICE
ESTATE OF Annie M. Raser, aka, Annie Marie Raser, late of East Nottingham Township, Chester County, Deceased. Letters Testamentary on the estate of the above-named Annie M.
Raser having been granted to the undersigned, all persons having claims or demands against the estate of the said decedent are requested to make known the same and all persons indebted to the said decedent to make payment without delay to: David Raser, Administrator, c/o Attorney: Winifred Moran Sebastian, Esquire, 208 E. Locust Street, P.O. Box 381, Oxford, PA 19363 5p-7-3t
ESTATE NOTICE
Letters Testamentary in the Estate of PETER HINKELMAN (a/k/a Peter G. Hinkelman), deceased, late of Westtown Township, Chester County, Pennsylvania, have been granted to the undersigned. All persons indebted to said Estate are requested to make prompt payment and those having claims to present the same, without delay to: Executor: Linda C. Hinkelman, C/O : Attorney: Charice D. Chait Peckman Chait LLP, 29 Main-
Wolfe continued, “It’s empowering and inspirational to see how far I’ve come from when I started,” explaining that receiving an award for her art has validated her skills. As an aspiring artist, Wolfe’s creative path has just begun. After graduating from high school, she plans to attend Millersville University for graphic design.
When asked what advice she would give to young artists who want to compete in future art competitions, Wolfe’s answer was both simple and inspiring: “Don’t give up and be yourself!”
In addition to Wolfe, the competition also recognized Chayanant Leelasanti of Phoenixville Area High School in first place and Keara Schott of Coatesville Area Senior High School,
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ESTATE NOTICE
Estate of Michael Joseph Woodward aka Michael Woodward, Deceased late of Easttown Twp. Chester County, PA. Letters Testamentary 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 Kathleen Woodward, Executrix, c/o John R. Lundy, Esq., Lundy Beldecos & Milby, PC, 450 N. Narberth Ave., Suite 200, Narberth, PA 19072. 5p-7-3t
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KJR Woodshop Inc. has been incorporated under the provisions of the Pennsylvania Business Corporation Law of 1988, as amended. Christopher L. Nelson, Esquire, Nelson Law Offices, P.C.
5 Prospect Avenue, PO Box 232, West Grove, PA 19390 5p-7-3t
ESTATE NOTICE
ESTATE OF Marilyn L. Struzik, late of Oxford Borough, Chester County, Deceased. Letters Testamentary on the estate of the above-named Marilyn L. Struzik having been granted to the undersigned, all persons having claims or demands against the estate of the said decedent are requested to make known the same and all persons indebted to the said decedent to make payment without delay to: Lorie A. Struzik, Executrix, c/o Attorney: Winifred Moran Sebastian, Esquire, 208 E. Locust Street P.O. Box 381, Oxford, PA 19363 Phone: 610-932-3838 4p-7-3t
NOTICE OF FICTITIOUS NAME
REGISTRATION
Notice is Hereby Given pursuant to the provisions of Act of Assembly, No. 295 Office of the
who placed third. As firstplace winner, Leelasanti’s piece, titled Self Portrait, will be displayed in the Capitol building for one year. Schott’s piece, titled Foreshadowed Fate, will be displayed in one of Representative Houlahan’s local offices.
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 Prime3DCrafts, with its principal place of business at, 1100 W Chester Pike, Apt M-28, West Chester, Pennsylvania 19382. The names and addresses of the persons owning or interested in said business is/are Svetlana Draganova, Prime3DCrafts, 1100 W Chester Pike, Apt M-28, West Chester, Pennsylvania 19382 5p-14-1t
PUBLIC NOTICE
Sealed proposals will be received by the Board of Supervisors of West Sadsbury Township, Chester County, 6400 N. Moscow Road, Parkesburg PA until 12:00 PM on Monday, June 9th, 2025, for equipment rental for the milling and paving of Township roadways. PA prevailing wages apply. Proposals must be upon the forms furnished by the municipality. The municipality reserves the right to reject any or all proposals. Bid opening will take place at approximately 12:15pm on Monday June 9, 2025, at the Municipal Building, 6400 N. Moscow, Parkesburg, PA. The award will take place on Tuesday June 10, 2025, at the regularly scheduled Board of Supervisors Meeting. Bid documents may be obtained by calling the township office at 610-857-5969 M-Th 8:30 am to 2:30 pm or by email at westsadsburytwp@westsadsburytwp.org 5p-14-2t
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Courtesy photo
Jordan Wolfe, of Exeter Township Senior High School, proudly showed off her Congressional award with her winning artwork, which was titled A Contrast of Symbolism.
Four Chester County residents inducted into Pennsylvania Voter Hall of Fame
Thomas and Irene Clapper and William and Linda Scott have voted in consecutive general elections for 50 Years
Four Chester County residents were inducted into the Pennsylvania Voter Hall of Fame at the Chester County Election Board meeting on April 25.
The Voter Hall of Fame was established to acknowledge and honor Pennsylvanians who have voted in every November election for at least 50 years. Pennsylvania Secretary of State Al Schmidt and Chester County Board of Election members Josh Maxwell, Marian Moskowitz, and Eric Roe joined federal and state elected officials in honoring the four individuals at the start of the public meeting.
Phoenixville residents Thomas and Irene Clapper
and West Chester Borough residents William and Linda Scott have voted consecutively in every November municipal, local, state, and presidential General Election in Pennsylvania for a minimum of five decades.
“These citizens have valued their constitutional right to vote enough to show up for every single election from the first time they were eligible to vote,” Secretary Schmidt said. “They are true role models of good citizenship. I congratulate them for setting a great example that should inspire the rest of us.”
The Board of Election members, Chester County Commissioners Maxwell, Moskowitz, and Roe, said,
“More than half of the residents of Chester County weren’t even born the first time Thom and Irene Clapper and Bill and Linda Scott voted. Their voices have played a role in determining the leadership of their municipalities, this county, the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, and the nation for the past 50 years.
“Their commitment to civic responsibility is remarkable and admirable, and we commend and celebrate these Voter Hall of Fame inductees for their participation in the democratic process.”
Karen Barsoum, the director of the Chester County Department of Voter Services, said in a statement,
Irene Clapper,
County Board of Elections Vice Chair Marian Moskowitz, Linda
Board of Elections member Eric Roe, William
Chair Josh
and Pennsylvania
“It is a privilege to recognize Thomas and Irene Clapper and Bill and Linda Scott for their lifelong commitment to democracy and for trusting and supporting the electoral process. In honor of this commitment, Voter Services custom-designed a lapel pin and memory coin to present to the inductees. I thank Secretary Schmidt and the Department of State for honoring and inducting them into the Pennsylvania Voter Hall of Fame.”
Each Voter Hall of Fame inductee was presented with a Voter Hall of Fame certifi-
cate from the Pennsylvania State Legislature, along with certificates and citations from the elected officials and the Board of Elections.
“Honoring these four Voter Hall of Fame recipients will bring awareness to a very special recognition in Pennsylvania’s voting history,” added Barsoum.
“I encourage anyone who believes they have voted in 50 or more consecutive General Elections in Pennsylvania to contact Voter Services to determine whether they qualify to be inducted into the Voter Hall of Fame.”
Chester County residents can apply to be a Pennsylvania Voter Hall Fame member by completing a form on the Chester County Department of Voter Services website, www. chesco.org/elections. Voters Services verifies applications by researching voter records. If the records show 50 consecutive years of voting in the General Elections in Pennsylvania, the application is submitted to the Pennsylvania Department of State for consideration and approval.
Four Chester County residents were inducted into the Pennsylvania Voter Hall of Fame.
Pictured in this photo are (L-R) Pennsylvania State Sen. Carolyn Comitta, Pennsylvania Secretary of State Al Schmidt, Pennsylvania State Rep. Paul Friel, Chester County Voter Services director Karen Barsoum,
Thomas Clapper, Chester
Scott, Chester County
Scott, Chester County Board of Elections
Maxwell,
State Rep. Chris Pielli.
Courtesy photos
Four Chester County residents were inducted into the Pennsylvania Voter Hall of Fame. Pictured are Pennsylvania Secretary of State Al Schmidt (left), Irene Clapper (bottom row, second from left), Thomas Clapper (bottom row, center left), Linda Scott (bottom row, center right), William Scott (bottom row, second from right), Chester County Board of Elections Chair Josh Maxwell (right), Chester County Voter Services director Karen Barsoum (top row, left), Chester County Board of Elections Vice Chair Marian Moskowitz (top row, center), and Chester County Board of Elections member Eric Roe (top row, right).
Incumbents, challengers join ballot for May 20 Primary Election
The Pennsylvania Primary Election will take place on Tuesday, May 20, and there will be dozens of races on the ballot for voters to make decisions about in advance of the general election in November.
There are a variety of judicial positions on the ballot and several county row offices, including county controller, treasurer, and coroner. Voters will weigh in on school board races and mayoral contests. Seats on borough councils and township supervisor boards will also be decided.
In a Primary Election, Democrat voters and Republican voters select the candidates they want to represent the parties during the November general election. Pennsylvania has a closed primary system. This means that Republican voters can vote only for Republican candidates and Democratic voters can vote only for Democratic candidates. The candidates who receive the highest number of votes go on to run in the general election.
Here’s a look at some of the candidates for some of the races that are on the ballot in the Primary Election:
In county-wide contests, the incumbent Chester County coroner, Sophia Garcia-Jackson, a Democrat, is seeking reelection, while Thomas John Hatzidais is look-
ing to win the Republican nomination. In the contest to decide the next county controller, Nick Cherubino is seeking the Democratic nomination, while Joseph Larusso has filed on the Republican side. Patricia Maisano, the incumbent treasurer, is seeking another term in that post. Maisano is a Democrat. Deana Wang has filed to win the nomination on the Republican side. For Clerk of Courts, Caroline Bradley is seeking the Democratic nomination, while Alissa McGrory, a Republican, is running to win that party’s nomination.
In the Judge of the Court of Common Pleas contest, with two seats up for election in November, Mackenzie Smith and Clay Cauley, Sr. have cross-filed and Neill Kling and Betty Ryberg, both Republicans, are seeking the nomination to advance to the General Election.
There are four seats up for election on Kennett Square Borough Council, as well as an unexpired, two-year term. James Miller and Troy Thompson have both filed on the Republican side. On the Democratic side, there are seven candidates— Bob Norris, Ethan Cramer, Hilda Matos, Patrick Mitchell, Charla Watson, Amy Reigel, and Juan L. Tafolla—vying for spots on the ballot. Elea McDonnell Feit, a Democrat, is seeking
to fill the two-year unexpired term.
There are three seats up for election on Avondale Borough Council. On the Democratic side, Stephanie Reichert, Michael W. Essmaker, and Janet Watts—all incumbents—are seeking re-election.
In West Grove, Leandra Hall, a Democrat, has filed for one of the three open seats on West Grove Borough Council. No other candidates have filed for those seats or for the twoyear, unexpired term on council. Voters will have the chance to support write-in candidates for these council seats.
In Pennsylvania, school board candidates can cross-file—they can seek the nomination from Republicans and Democrats simultaneously.
In Avon Grove’s Region I, there are three candidates vying for two seats that are up for election. The candidates are Ruchira Singh, an incumbent, Mike Woodin, also an incumbent, and Natalie Ortega-Moran. All three of these candidates have cross-filed in this contest.
Katie Leonard has crossfiled for the open seat in Avon Grove’s Region II. On the Republican side, Stephen Sheppleman has filed.
In Avon Grove’s Region III, incumbent Bill Wood
is seeking another term and has cross-filed. Jules Quartapella has filed on the Republican side.
In Kennett Consolidated School District’s Region A, Ann Parry has cross-filed. In Region B, Jamie Blevins Raign has cross-filed and Dinamarie Vanover has filed as a Republican. In Region C, where there are two seats up for election, Juan C. Gonzalez-Zarate has filed on the Democratic side. Incumbent school board member Vicki Gehrt has cross-filed. On the Republican side, Brendan Keane and Allison DeMajistre are seeking the nomination.
In the Unionville-Chadds Ford School District, there are two seats up for election in Region A. Joseph P. Everett and Susan Still Elks have both cross-filed in this region. In Region B, also with two seats up for election, there are three candidates who have crossfiled—Jim Ash, Jr., Sandra Litvin, and Steven G. Simonson.
In local mayoral races, there are some very familiar names on the ballot—all of the incumbents in the four boroughs in southern Chester County have filed to seek re-election. Susan Rzucidlo, the mayor of Avondale Borough, is seeking a second term, and is running as a Democrat.
In Oxford, Mayor Phillip
Harris, a Republican, is seeking re-election.
Longtime mayor Stephen Black, a Republican, is seeking another term in that position in West Grove. In Kennett Square Borough, incumbent Matthew Fetick has filed on the Democratic side. Leon Spencer, Jr. has a filed on the Republican side, setting up a potential showdown in the general election in November.
Many of the township supervisor contests are uncontested—there are only as many candidates as there are seats available in the November election. Voters will narrow the field for some contests, however.
In Penn Township, for example, three people— incumbent board chairman Victor Mantegna, Dwayne Degler, and Donald Slesinski are seeking the Democratic nomination. Republican Jakob D. Moore is seeking his party’s nomination. There are two seats up for grabs in the November election.
There is a two-year unexpired term in East Marlborough Township and James Chance and Robert McKinstry, Jr. are vying for the nomination for that seat.
Chris Manning and Steven Peuquet, both Democrats, have filed to win the nominations for the two, four-year positions on the East Marlborough Township Board of Supervisors.
There are three Republicans—Steve Zurl, Jonathan McGrath, and Andy Bowman—on the ballot in London Grove Township. There are two positions up for election on London Grove Township’s Board of Supervisors. There is a two-year unexpired term in London Britain Township. Bruce Yost is seeking to win the Democratic nomination, while Russell McKinnon is seeking to win the Republican nomination. Brian Sachs, a Democrat, is seeking a four-year term on the London Britain Township Board of Supervisors.
On May 20, the polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. For residents who aren’t yet registered to vote in Pennsylvania, the last day to register to vote in the Municipal Election is October 20. The last day to request a mail-in or absentee ballot for the Municipal Election is October 28. The Municipal Election will then take place on Tuesday, November 4.
For much more election information, including Democratic Specimen Ballots, Republican Specimen Ballots, an official list of candidates, and the location of where you vote, the county’s Department of Voter Services has a page on the Chester County website at www.chesco.org.
