Kennett Township Police to begin its first K-9 unit
By Richard L. Gaw Staff Writer
The newest member of the Kennett Township Police Department is 18 months old, stands three feet in height, weighs 70 pounds, does not walk upright, answers to the name Broc, and, at the end of the month, he will officially join the department as an officer in training.
The black German Shepherd was introduced at the June 4 meeting of
the township’s Board of Supervisors as a formal kick-off to the start of the department’s new K-9 unit that will be operated by Police Officer Brian Bolt, who has owned the dog since it was just nine weeks old. Bolt, who has been a certified K-9 trainer since 2018, provides in-service training for K-9 teams in Chester, Delaware and York counties. For now, the department’s K-9 unit –which is projected to begin at the end of June – will
consist of Broc and Officer Bolt.
In introducing the new unit, Police Chief Matthew Gordon said that adding a K-9 unit to a police department is cost effective, deters criminal activity, enhances drug detection, improves police response times, benefits search and rescue operations and enhances a department’s relationship with its community.
“K-9 units are invaluable in search and rescue missions, especially in locating
missing persons or individuals lost in wooded areas or difficult terrain,” Gordon said. “Their keen sense of smell and tracking abilities
Photo by Richard L. Gaw Broc, a 70-pound German Shepherd and an officer in training for the Kennett Township Police Department’s new K-9 unit, stands with Police Chief Matthew Gordon, left, and Police Officer Brian Bolt, who will be handling the unit.
By Richard L. Gaw Staff Writer
hearing their name called as they crossed the stage, spoken in a timbre that announced that one door was closing and another was about to open. However, joined by a capacity audience of
Photos by Richard L. Gaw Avon Grove High School awarded the 452 graduates of the Class of 2025 with diplomas at ceremonies held on June 3 at the Bob Carpenter Center in Newark.
Champions of Kindness: Unionville High School celebrates Class of 2025
By Gabbie Burton Contributing Writer
With the unifying theme of kindness serving as its through line, the Unionville High School Class of 2025 Commencement graduated 328 students – and 55
National Merit Scholars, a school high – at a celebration held June 4 at the Bob Carpenter Center.
Acknowledging the Unionville-Chadds Ford
District’s Kindness Matters campaign this past academic year, Principal Amy Jenkins began the ceremony by praising the students for their empathy and kindness and additionally recognized their philanthropic efforts. The Class of 2025 completed several service projects that included raising a record $87,931.33 for the school’s 10th UTHON anniversary, which supports Four
Diamonds and the fight against childhood cancer, as well as separate effort that donated blood to the American Red Cross.
“When the school year started with good vibes and kind energy, the district announced the theme of kindness,” Jenkins said.
Continued on Page 3A
in
Concert takes on a deeper
Dave Haradon, the lead organizer of the event, passed away right before the Longwood Rotary’s concert fundraiser took place last Friday evening
By Chris Barber Contributing Writer
Dave Haradon, an active and enthusiastic volunteer in the community who was named the Southern Chester County Chamber of Commerce Outstanding Citizen for 2015, was a lead organizer to bring the John Denver Tribute Concert to the area as a fundraiser for the Longwood Rotary. He spent months helping
to plan the June 6 event that would take place at Unionville High School. But Haradon, 72, a longtime Rotarian at the local and regional levels, suffered a stroke on June 4, and died the following day, according to fellow members of the Longwood Rotary. Fellow Longwood Rotary member and membership chairman Tammy Duering said she had been working
Photo
Photo by Gabbie Burton
Unionville High School’s commencement saw 328 graduates receive their diplomas
ceremonies held on June 4 at the Bob Carpenter Center.
K-9 unit...
Continued from Page 1A
can greatly expedite search efforts, particularly in the saving of lives.
“Our community has both elderly dementia patients and special needs children, who at times, can wander off. Having a K-9 unit will directly benefit the safety of our community.”
As a condition of the implementation of the new unit, the department will be required to operate as a non-profit and fund it through independent sources, which will go to pay for Broc’s training and the purchase of a K-9 insert for a police vehicle, which is estimated at $10,000. To help defray operating expenses, the department has begun Friends of the Kennett Township Police, a campaign that will raise funding for the unit through public contributions. (To learn more about the campaign or to make a contribution, contact Officer Bolt at (610) 388-2874, ext. 311 or email
Continued from Page 1A
well-wishers, what the new graduates were not expecting were the very personal speeches given by their peers that reverberated throughout The Bob and referred to their personal journey as one of vulnerability, self-discovery and maturity. In his speech, Class Valedictorian Aaditya Joshi said that he asked for help with his speech but was told, “I don’t know.”
“Honestly, that may be the most underrated answer of all time,” Joshi said.
“Saying ‘I don’t know’ is one of the best things you can say, because it usually means that you are about to learn something new. More importantly, it’s often a moment when you allow yourself to open the door for someone else to help you out.
“I used to think that success was all about having
FriendsofKTPD@gmail. com.)
Wireless communication towers get OK in township
By a 3-0 vote, the supervisors adopted Ordinance 310, which will pave the way for wireless communication facilities to be built in the township, as a method of providing better cellular service to the police, first responders and the residents of the township.
According to background data provided by township Manager Alison Dobbins and Katelynn Morgenstern, the township’s director of Planning and Zoning, there are areas in the township that do not offer reliable wireless communication, an issue that has been raised by Police Chief Gordon and Fire Chief AJ McCarthy, as well as by emergency personnel, residents, and businesses who have been affected by inconsistent or unavailable wireless service.
The amendment –which was reviewed by
the answers and being the person everyone turned to, but if these past four years have taught me anything, it’s that asking for help doesn’t make you weak. It makes you human.”
‘The choice is yours’
Senior Speaker Evan Stevens told his fellow graduates that before his Senior year, “I didn’t care,” marking a three-year period that was affected by the isolation he experienced by COVID-19 era remote learning during his last year in middle school.
“I let that hard year define me for the worst when I started high school, and by the end of my Junior year, I didn’t have many friends, had never joined any sports or clubs, had a 2.9 GPA and was ranked 338th out of 440 in our class. I had no aspiration for my future.”
Stevens then began to consider how his lethargy
the township’s Planning Commission and the Chester County Planning Commission – establishes clearance and uniform standards to construct and place tower-based wireless communications facilities in the township, which will support one or more antennas. The installation of a cell tower will be up to the discretion of a township private property owner.
Township Solicitor David Sander said that as part of the township’s Zoning Hearing Board process, all neighbors in the vicinity of the property owner will need to be notified of the application.
“I hear often from residents that they can’t get service in certain areas,” Dobbins said. “We’ve heard from businesses who tell us that it causes real problems for them when they are not able to use their devices. There are a lot of people who choose not to have home phone [land lines] and are completely relying on cellular phones. Generally speak-
would affect his future, and at the start of his Senior year, reached out to new people, joined school activities and dedicated himself more in the classroom.
“And now I am here, because of a choice, realizing that every one of those moments good and bad are leading me exactly where I need to be,” he said. “What I learned in high school and what I hope every graduate here remembers is this: There will always be things we wish we could change from our past. Although you cannot change your past, you can choose how you let it define your future. For better or worse, that choice is yours.”
Additional speeches were delivered by Salutatorian Madeline Chandler (“Don’t let your future or your ambition rob you of the present; after all, that’s why it’s called ‘the present,’ because it’s a gift”); Senior Class President Brady Fox (“Each and every one of you will go out there and do something that will far surpass this. You’ll start families, forge careers and go out in the world and do something amazing”); and Senior Speaker Stephanie Kolar (“Time is the one thing we never get back, so let’s not wait to live our lives, to be kind, to chase our dreams or to forgive. Let’s not wait to tell people we love how much they mean to us. Do not simply be alive, but live.”)
‘This is the beginning of our story’
After giving recognition to the eight graduating seniors who will be entering military service, Principal
ing, many people are really surprised to understand that wireless facilities are not permitted in the southern half of the township and are supportive of the idea that this [amendment] would help them receive service in those areas.”
In addressing the possibility that these towers may detract from the aesthetic quality of life in the rural township, supervisor Geoffrey Gamble called them “a necessity.”
“I think we’ve come to an age where we’re going to have to put up with towers, hopefully in strategic locations and in not too many places in order to get the coverage that is necessary,” he said.
In other township business, Collis O. Townsend, a township resident and the President of the Kennett Library Board of Trustees, gave an update presentation about the library, which is now in its second year of operation after a $22 million capital campaign led to its construction on State Street in Kennett Borough.
Citing the Library’s commitment to providing individuals in eight municipalities with classes in health, adult and financial literacy, Townsend said that these classes are intended to apply practical skills in several aspects of everyday life.
“We’re bringing in programs that the community is really responding to and we are responding to the community,” said Townsend, who cited several informational resources that the public can access to learn more about the library’s
programs. He said that over the past year, the library has been experiencing “explosive growth,” referring to computer usage having increased 400 percent and the number of card holders rising 27 percent. In addition, the library now averages 17,000 visitors a month and averages 4,000 monthly visitors from Kennett Township, a 300 percent increase over last year.
To contact Staff Writer Richard L. Gaw, email rgaw@chestercounty.com.
Dr. Christie Snead said that 85 percent of the students will be pursuing higher education and have been accepted to 83 colleges and universities, and that 120 members of the class received over $220,000 in scholarships and awards from the school’s community. In addition, the Class of 2025 was awarded with $4.5 million in scholarships.
“Class of 2025, you missed a crucial stage of middle school due to the world shutting down and yet, you excelled in high school,” Snead told the graduates. “You excelled in the classroom, in shop, in lab, on stage, on the court and on the field. You experienced challenge and disappointment. Through it all, you adapted and you
persevered. My hope is that you look and reflect on those times with pride and continue to grow from your experiences in the future. You are capable of anything you set your mind to.”
“This is the beginning of your story.”
To contact Staff Writer Richard L. Gaw, email rgaw@chestrecounty.com.
Avon Grove...
Photos by Richard L. Gaw
Class Valedictorian Aaditya Joshi delivered his speech before a sold-out arena.
National Honor Society members Elena and Elise Westley.
Members of the Avon Grove Vocal Ensemble perform “Ominia Sol” during the ceremony.
Giselle Offschanka gives the thumbs-up sign prior to the start of the commencement ceremony.
The Avon Grove High School Graduation Band was under the direction of Michael Davino.
Senior Class President Brady Fox delivered his speech while donning the shoes of the school’s Red Devil mascot, a responsibility he took on for the school.
on the concert with Haradon, but he had been doing most of the work and dealt with the logistics. She explained that Haradon had attended a concert featuring Ted Vigil, an acclaimed John Denver tribute performer, in Lancaster last year, and believed it would be well received in Kennett Square and would raise money for worthy projects out of the Rotary Foundation.
“We’ve just been putting the pieces together,” Duering said.
The John Denver Tribute Concert was well received by what appeared to be a generation that was familiar with and loved his folk music in the 1970s and 1980s. They came and nearly filled the Unionville High School Auditorium.
All who were asked said their main reason for coming was that they loved and remembered Denver’s music. One young graduate of Unionville High School said she liked the music he wrote and sang, and added, “He was lost long before I was born.”
Unionville...
“Kindness is not always flashy, it’s not always about grand gestures and more often it’s found in the small, everyday interactions. We have seen the kindness of this class all year.”
This kindness of the class of 2025 was further exemplified by its student speakers.
Her mother, who was with her, commented on the remark, “We brought her up the right way.
Mary Ann Emerson said she and her friends loved John Denver and, “[John Denver] and I share a birthday - December 31 - but he was ten years older,” she said.
Others said they heard from friends that the concert was coming, and they bought tickets as well.
Vigil, looking very much like the composer, singer, environmental activist he was honoring, had three backup musicians with him and opened the show with Denver’s vigorous “Rocky Mountain High.” Most of the audience joined in. He went on to sing most of Denver’s memorable numbers in rapid order, including many of the songs that sold millions of copies through the years.
Continued from Page 1A and even slow technology. You have faced it and came out stronger.”
“I wish I’d gotten to know all of you for longer, because the Class of 2025 is made up of the most remarkable people, and all of you are so incredibly hard working, talented and just all around amazing,” said speaker Lilah Brennan. “You’ve overcome countless obstacles and adapted to frequent change from global pandemics to escaped convicts
Student speakers additionally praised their support system who helped them along the way, including friends and family who filled the stands and celebrated with them after their
tassels were turned.
Graduating Senior and Student Board Member Aliz Eujima encouraged her classmates to continue the signature brand of strength in mind and heart that has come to define the Class of 2025.
“Today, as we wear our
Some of the songs were enhanced by video backup on a screen behind him, like the ocean scene to accompany “Calypso,” which honored oceanographer Jacques Cousteau.
At one point Vigil reminded his audience that he has been described as looking somewhat like John Denver and even sometimes sounding like him, but he is no imitator. Rather, he said, he loves singing Denver’s songs
and offering a tribute to his work.
a rousing version of “Eagles and Horses,” and then returned with an
After the mid-concert intermission, Vigil returned with the announcement that he was re-enacting the “The Muppett Show” rendition of “Old MacDonald Had a Farm.” With four volunteers from the audience, he sang the song, and the four helpers uttered the animal
graduation outfit, we put on our caps, our gowns, our tassels, but we also put on opportunity,” she reflected. “We put on our
pride, our achievements and our accomplishments. We put on our empathy, our kindness and our unique, individual identities.”
“Relationships require maintenance, not perfection, as you head off to your next adventures, remember that the technology in your pockets gives you something my generation never had the ability to check in with almost no effort,” said Superintendent of Schools Dr. John Sanville. “People and relationships are worth connecting with and tending to, even when life gets busy and life will get busy for you.
“Twenty years from now, I hope none of you have to accidentally bump into an old friend and wonder where the time went. Instead, I hope you’re celebrating how your friendships evolved and grew because you understood something powerful at 18 years old—that people and relationships are worth tending to, even when life gets busy.”
To contact Contributing Writer Gabbie Burton, email gburton@chestercounty.com.
Audience member volunteer to make the animal noises in “Old MacDonald Had a Farm” as Vigil sings the verses. From left are Matt Grieco, Perry Bentley, Drazen Cvijanovic, Doreen Yepremian and Ted Vigil as John Denver.
sounds. Vigil closed the show with
encore of “Thank God I’m a Country Boy.”
Photos by Chris Barber
Ted Vigil in his tribute to John Denver belts out some of the singer’s most popular songs at the concert on June 6.
Two members of the graduating Class of 2025 embraced outside the Bob Carpenter Center following commencement exercise.
Courtesy photos Administrators showed their support of the graduating Class of 2025 throughout the ceremony.
A graduate waves to her proud family from the arena floor.
One happy graduate celebrated his commencement in grand style.
The Chester County Futures mentorship program: ‘An incredibly powerful gift’
By Gabbie Burton Contributing Writer
Having grown up in Liverpool, England as the first in his family to attend university from a single parent home, Neil Hall feels he could have benefitted then from the very type of program he now mentors teenagers through.
Hall and his wife, Nicky Westhead, both volunteer as mentors with Chester County Futures (CCF), helping advise students through high school and beyond. CCF is a nonprofit organization offering after-school resources and support for students at Coatesville, Kennett, Oxford and Phoenixville high schools.
Hall and Westhead have been mentoring students at Coatesville High School for the past several years.
“People talk about how ‘it takes a village,’” Hall said. “Well, CCF is a village because you’ve got all these other resources. I know from talking to my various mentees they have lots of conversations, and what you find is that you’re not the only one going through these challenges about grants and funding and where you’re going to live in college, but that everybody else is. There’s this great comfort there.”
CCF connects volunteer mentors with high school
students through their shared interests and goals in order to build the most enriching relationship.
While some of the mentoring is centered around academics and the college application process, the relationships that develop allow for deeper growth, and encourage the pairs to stay in contact for years after high school graduation.
“It isn’t just about education or going to college, it’s learning about life,” Hall said. “It’s learning to live as an adult and discovering that the refrigerator doesn’t magically restock itself once a week with food, and that your clothes don’t magically wash themselves.”
Both Hall and Westhead are still in touch with past mentees who are now in college and shared their experiences of supporting their mentees’ growth into adulthood.
“You see growth through many stages, and it is not just leaving school and entering college but about growth and clarity,” Westhead said. “Their selfconfidence changes. They reach out and extend themselves to others and they make new friends and try new things. Of the two students in the program who have gone to college, they are trying new things that they haven’t done before.”
‘Investment’ in students
Westhead shared that mentors can provide an outside perspective on the students’ school and life experiences that teachers or parents can’t. It is an advantage that gives the students another avenue to seek advice and support from, further supporting the longevity of the mentorship.
“You are not in the situation or the system that the student is in, so I don’t have the same attachment a teacher has, who might have a particular view about where that student is going with their grades or in their classes,” she said. “I’m also not in their family systems so I don’t have that familial relationship.
“Basically, I’m independent, I’m objective, but at the same time, I am also invested in them.”
How “invested” both Westhead and Hall are in their mentees is abundantly clear. Westhead shared how her current mentee is talented in art and is passionate about sciences, something the pair connected over through Westhead’s career in business psychology. Hall, whose career has been in making pharmaceuticals and medical devices, said that going through the grant application process with his mentee took an intensive amount of work and dedication.
“We worked harder on that application than I prob-
ably do on presentations I give to the executives or board of Smith and Nephew and Johnson and Johnson,” Hall said. “In all honesty, I take more pleasure and satisfaction in the success of my mentees than I do with my own professional life now. I was so excited for my current mentee when he got that grant because I knew what it meant to him and I knew how it would help him, but it’s just so nice to be able to help these young people make progress in life.”
Being able to support and witness the journey of growth in their mentees is the best part of the mentoring experience for Hall and Westhead. However, their mentees are not the only ones growing in the process.
“Mentoring succeeds not just in one direction but two, because the student enriches the mentor’s life,” Westhead said. “I am enriched every time I have a conversation. I learn things, I get questions, I get challenged and I feel supported by them as well. We develop a relationship that is separate to being in the school system or the family system, and it can be a really interesting process of discovery for the mentor.”
The gift that mentoring through CCF has given to Hall and Westhead is not only an opportunity they are
forever grateful for, but one that they wish to pass on to their friends in order to continue spreading support for local students and their communities.
“Mentoring students is an incredibly powerful gift that somebody can give,” Westhead said. “It is about investing in the future of whatever community you’re in, and while the
individuals you mentor are enriched by the mentoring process, you also get something back as well.”
To learn more about Chester County Futures and its mentorship program, visit www.ccftures.org.
To contact Contributing Writer Gabbie Burton, email gburton@chestercounty.com.
Kennett Square
Courtesy photo
Neil Hall and his wife, Nicky Westhead, are part of the mentorship program at Chester County Futures, which provides after-school resources and support for students at Coatesville, Kennett, Oxford and Phoenixville high schools.
‘Live it, run it down’
Courtesy photo
Dr. Joyce J. Scott, visual and performing artist
Over the last two editions of the Chester County Press – including this edition – we have provided coverage of four high school commencement exercises and documented the graduation ceremonies of over 1,000 students, who arrive in tassels and gowns and depart with diplomas in hand and the wide-open future ahead of them.
In each event rests the juxtaposition that divides our turbulent world from the manifestation of newborn dreams, because against the backdrop of political division and the hateful ugliness of the rhetoric spewing from the mouths and pens of our leaders, every one of the graduates that we have seen walk down that aisle is the owner of a powerful dream, that is all theirs.
Every year, the Chester County Press publishes some of the best commencement speeches of that year’s graduation season. Listed below, they are chosen on the basis of their wisdom, their inference and their positivity. We ask – and perhaps hope – that these expressions be the dominant tenor and content that runs alongside the future of these and millions of other graduates across the country and the world.
“What people saw in that video was this moment of alignment; they saw a past life or the universe or whatever you want to call it come along and hold my hand to the flame. But no one saw all the hard work or all the times I almost quit. They never heard the songs that didn’t work or the shows that were just bad I don’t know any artist that hasn’t considered quitting. But you didn’t get here because you wanted to do something easy; you got here because you wanted to do something great.”
—Singer-songwriter Maggie Rogers, speaking at New York University
“Don’t let anxiety or depression or hopelessness cause you to isolate. On the contrary, grow yourself a deep, solid community of people who share your values, have each other’s backs, check up on each other regularly, and be intentional about this. You know, in these uncertain times, we need to strengthen our ties to community, to our colleagues, our friends and family, because, more and more, we’re going to need this support for safety, for love, for help, for fun—let’s not forget fun—and for survival.”
—Jane Fonda, actress and activist, speaking at the University of Southern California Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism
“A negative thought comes into your mind—you say out loud, you say out loud, ‘I am sorry, I have no time for you now.’ Yes, people will look at you very strangely, but it doesn’t matter, because it becomes your habit. A negative thought comes into your mind, you move it out, you move a positive in. For me, it is a Bundt cake with melty chocolate chips—no icing— and all of a sudden your shoulders fly back, your head flies up and you continue your dream.”
—Henry Winkler, actor, speaking at Georgetown University
“Never give up, even if you have to take a side job –never give up, never ever stop, because this is the one life you will know. This is the one life where you are actually human beings. When you come back, you can be anyone else other than you, so when you are here as this human being – this person in the 21st Century –live it, run it down, and remember, this life is not just for you. It’s for your community, it’s for your family and friends, it’s to make the future better for others.”
—Dr. Joyce J. Scott, visual and performing artist, speaking at the University of Baltimore
Elected officials must reject Most Favored Nation policy for drug pricing
Letter to the Editor:
Navigating our health care system is already challenging—and now, some elected officials are championing a deeply flawed proposal that would limit access to life-saving medications not only for Medicaid recipients, but for millions of Americans across our broader health care system.
As part of the federal reconciliation package currently under debate, there is growing support
for implementing a Most Favored Nation (MFN) policy for drug pricing. While intended to lower costs, this approach would instead impose significant operational burdens on pharmaceutical manufacturers, effectively functioning as an additional tax.
In a market-driven economy, increased costs in one area will inevitably lead to cuts in another. In this case, what’s at risk is not just business overhead—it’s patients’ access to essential treatments. Faced with
punitive pricing structures, some companies may scale back innovation, restrict distribution, or opt out of Medicaid entirely.
The consequences would be far-reaching. Reduced participation in Medicaid would create dangerous coverage gaps for vulnerable populations. Moreover, the MFN model would have a chilling effect across the entire health care system, discouraging investment in research and development, delaying the introduction of breakthrough therapies,
“Leap of Faith!”
By Marie-Louise Meyers
It’s only when I sleep I fill the pond with missing water responsive to my needs. I seek refuge in the creek now where the mesmerizing miracle begins holding me spellbound in relief. I am the small child once again, more splash than finesse
when Dad says to me: “let’s swim across the lake, only a half mile away!”
Searching my father’s face as if a buoy to hold me up, I did with a leap of faith, going across and coming back.
Withholding any praise, Mother took Dad to task, feeling betrayed. How could she be aghast at my conquest of the
waves, which didn’t come in predictable stages!
Dad lived ten years after Mother did, bewildered by the turn of the tide, floundering within, looked toward me as I led him beyond the fragmentation of his life to the other side, even to other enterprises, and I became the life raft
and destabilizing access to care for patients in both public and private insurance markets.
The Most Favored Nation policy moves our health care system in the wrong direction. It undermines access, innovation, and affordability. We urge our elected officials to reject this shortsighted proposal— and to prioritize solutions that expand access to care, rather than restrict it.
he once was to me: “whatever you say,” he said, eyes fixated with absolute belief. Sometimes bogged down thinking I’m reaching a dead end, I look beyond the everyday borders which keep me confined, gaze into my father’s watery blue/green eyes, and take that same leap of faith I once did, without being finalized.
Overdose deaths inflict a toll on families, workplaces, communities and state economies
By Jon O’Brien
It isn’t an exaggeration to say Pennsylvania’s opioid and fentanyl epidemic is the public health challenge of our time. Across our commonwealth and America, opioid use disorder (OUD) continues to be a crisis that requires our constant attention. Overdose deaths inflict a toll on families, workplaces, communities and state economies.
Fortunately, there is some good news to report: We are making progress. Nationally, 224 Americans died every day from an overdose in 2022. Two years later, that number fell to 150.
But it doesn’t erase the horrifying reality that OUD continues to be a leading killer both in Pennsylvania and the United States. Through only May of this year, 33 million pills have been seized by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency. Parents, grandparents, and every person connected to children and young adults must learn the risks and the meaning of “One Pill Can Kill.” Only 2 milligrams of fentanyl, which can fit on the tip of your pinky finger, is strong enough to kill a
Chester County Press
human.
Not only is the human toll a tragedy, the growing financial one continues to cripple local, state and federal government budgets. A May report by Avalere Health found this epidemic is also taking a remarkable financial toll on taxpayers, costing America nearly $1 trillion per year, with Pennsylvania incurring one of the highest costs at $232 million (behind only Ohio, California, Florida and New York).
Pennsylvania’s annual cost per case ($728,202) is also higher than the national average. Fortunately, America is expanding its treatment options for OUD.
Avalere found that a Long Acting Injectable (LAI) buprenorphine, a combination of behavioral therapy and medication, to be the most cost-effective treatment option.
This report should serve as a warning that the war is far from over, and Pennsylvania’s construction industry certainly hasn’t been immune. Mental health and well-being have always been prime areas of concerns in a demanding business where one in
five construction workers struggle with anxiety, depression and other mental health issues. In an industry where many workers do not seek help with mental health issues, construction has seen an uptick in using the 9-8-8 national hotline for mental health crises, with 23,000 calls a day to this service.
Sadly, construction has the second highest rate of suicides among all occupations.
But our profession is also physically demanding, and some workers require medication for pain relief.
Roughly 20 percent of all prescribed medications to the construction industry contain an opioid. Data from 2011 to 2016 found construction workers experienced 15 percent of all overdose deaths in the workplace, despite representing only 7 percent of the workforce.
To help increase awareness of this ongoing OUD threat, the last week in July is Construction Opioid Awareness Week in Pennsylvania. But we aren’t waiting until then to take steps to help educate our industry. Our commitment is year-round and provides important information that is beneficial to everyone in Pennsylvania, not just construction workers.
With the high frequency and severity of sprain and strain injury rates, we’re educating workers about safer alternatives to opioid pain management, including over-the-counter pain relievers, such as aspirin, ibuprofen and acetaminophen.
Back program. At these locations, companies work with employees to drop off their unused prescribed medications for disposal. Medications can be turned over in the original bottle (with personal information removed or marked out) or in a small sealed container. Employees also are getting “Opioids - Warn Me Stickers.” It may sound simple, but these red and white stickers that read: “Caution: Opioid – Risk of Overdose and Addiction” serve as a glaring alert to be mindful of the medication being taken. These stickers are handed out at the workplace and wellness fairs, included in employee orientation materials, and shared with friends and family. Pennsylvania’s construction industry is always exploring new ways to help our commonwealth defeat opioid and fentanyl addiction. Much work remains. We hope other industries will join us so we can stop the senseless and tragic deaths of so many mothers, fathers, sisters, brothers and friends.
The industry is also encouraging construction workers to use the more than 900 drug take-back locations as part of Pennsylvania’s Prescription Drug Take
Jon O’Brien is the executive director of the Keystone Contractors Association. For more information, please see: https://keystonecontractors.com.
Betsy Huber Lincoln University, Pa.
Courtesy photo Jon O’ Brien
Kennett School Board approves final budget
By Chris Barber Contributing Writer
Property owners in the Kennett Consolidated School District will soon be paying almost 4 percent higher real estate taxes than last year.
At the June 9 board meeting at Mary D. Lang Kindergarten Center in Kennett Square, the board unanimously approved an annual operating budget of $108 million. This is an increase of $3.5 million over last year’s, which was $104 million.
The tax bill to the average property owner will be $6,414 compared to $6,168 last year.
The budget numbers presented by CFO Mark Tracy reflected major increases in salaries, contracts, and expenditures
that were categorized as “Others.” When asked later, he explained that the “Others” reflected on loan interest payments for the new elementary schools – New Garden and Greenwood.
The millage, which last year was 33.645 mills, will increase to 34.99 mills.
A mill is a tax of $1 on every $1,000 of assessed property value.
That average bill, however, is softened slightly by the “Homestead Exclusion” for many. This is a state program that gives a small contribution to the bill of homeowners’ “primary domicile” is their home in the district. The exclusion is funded by Pennsylvania gambling assets and applied to the basic bill. It varies yearly.
This year, that Homestead amount is $408.
That brings the bill to the average homeowner down to $6,008 this year, compared to $5,814 for the average homeowner for the current budget. That amounts to a net increase of 3.3 percent this year.
Chorus trip approved
In other business, Superintendent Dr. Kimberly Rizzo Saunders presented a proposal to send 60 students, members of the high school chorus, to Beijing, China to perform with a Chinese high school chorus.
The Kennett participants would be chorus members in grades 10, 11 and 12. The trip would be from Nov. 7 to Nov. 15.
Rizzo Saunders, who in
the request identified herself as a strong advocate for music in the schools, gave a presentation asking for the trip to be approved.
Choral Director Ryan Battin then explained that the trip would be financed through a partnership with a travel advocate. Ten adults would accompany the students, including Battin and Rizzo Saunders. The only cost to the participating students would be transportation to JFK Airport and individual travel health insurance.
The students would participate in choral workshops, rehearsals and two performances with local Chinese students.
The motion to approve, which was given unanimously by the board, was contingent upon the remaining details of the
trip being worked out. “This is pretty nice to have this presented to us,” Battin said.
In the public comment time, several parents of Greenwood Elementary School students addressed the board, expressing their objections to plans the district had to move longtime Greenwood counselor Tia Ennis to a position in the high school. Citing the pressures Greenwood students have endured over the past several years with COVID-19, overcrowded classes, three principals in four years and the inconveniences of the onsite building project, they unanimously pointed to Ennis as someone who helped the students get through it all. The parents pleaded with Rizzo Saunders to reverse the
decision.
In his report on facilities, Director Dave Brice said the work on the construction of the two new elementary schools was up to date. Another project, the expansion of the administration building, is due to start this summer. Later, the board approved hiring a manager for the administration building job – the same individual who manages the elementary school projects.
Board Vice President Vicki Gehrt reported that students in the Chester County Intermediate Unit Horticulture Program took part in the Philadelphia Flower Show designed and submitted a window box with a lamppost that won not only a blue ribbon, but an “Outstanding Blue Ribbon Award.”
Oxford Borough officials discuss electricity rate increases in Pa.
By Betsy Brewer Brantner Contributing Writer
Oxford Borough Manager
Pauline Garcia-Allen educated borough council and the public about potential electricity rate increases in Pennsylvania at the most recent Oxford Borough Council meeting. One of the main drivers behind the Pa. electric rate increase is a spike in capacity costs within the PJM Interconnection grid.
PJM Interconnection is the largest electricity market in North America, managing the high-voltage transmission system and balancing supply and demand for electricity in 13 states and the District of Columbia. They act as a neutral, independent organization overseeing a competitive wholesale electricity market, ensuring reliable and efficient power delivery.
In the PJM electricity market, if a utility or Load Serving Entity (LSE) fails to meet its capacity commitments, it may face penalties like the Fixed Resource Requirement
(FRR) Commitment
Insufficiency Charge. This charge is levied when an entity’s capacity commitment is insufficient to meet the PJM Region Reliability Requirement. PJM uses a capacity auction system to ensure that there’s enough power available when needed, and those who under-commit risk facing penalties.
Capacity fees play a critical role in ensuring that enough power is available during periods of peak demand, such as scorching summer afternoons or frigid winter nights.
Garcia-Allen explained, “In May of 2023, the borough executed a contract with Mantis Energy. We were notified by them that our contract would face an increase of $12,000plus until 2027. There are many players involved: customer, transmission line, generator, etc. The PJM Interconnection grid controls everything.”
In June of 2025, Pennsylvania’s electricity rates are expected to rise due to PJM’s capacity auction, with potential increases of 5 percent to
16 percent for residential customers, according to PA Electricity Ratings. This is primarily due to higher capacity costs passed on by utilities to consumers.
Who hasn’t asked themselves, “Why am I paying all of these charges?”
An electric bill in Pennsylvania typically includes a customer charge, distribution charges, generation charges, and taxes/ surcharges. The customer charge is a flat fee for basic service, while distribution charges cover the costs of delivering electricity to your home. Generation charges are for the electricity you actually use, and taxes/surcharges are added to your bill for state taxes and other fees.
The borough is not exempt from the high cost of electric which will be facing all customers in Pennsylvania. However, they have successfully mitigated the increase of $12,000 at this point.
Nava sworn in
Also at the meeting, Oxford Borough Council, Police Chief Sam Iacono,
Sgt. Chris Coverly and a host of visitors watched as Mayor Phil Harris swore in Jose Nava as a full-time Oxford Police Officer.
Nava took the oath with his parents, Donna and Jose Nava, holding the Bible.
Sgt. Chris Coverly said, “It’s great to see a hometown guy joining our department.” Borough council gave its
approval to going to bid on Phase 1 of the improvements to Mt. Vernon St. This is the first phase for the Mt. Vernon Project. Council’s authorization was given conditioned on the solicitor’s final approval.
The project will include a new water main from N. Third St. to Route 472, a new raw water line, and also improvements from the Oxford Sewer Authority. Approval for phase two is expected in the first quarter of next year. Grants and liquid fuel funds will be used to pay for the project.
Council also gave its approval to extend the purchase agreement with EMEX, LLC a division of Mantis Innovation, for a fixed energy rate of $0.07631 per kilowatt hour, with 25 percent green energy sources for 24 months,
effective December 1, 2027.
Garcia-Allen also informed council that she is working toward a kick-off meeting with consultants and townships regarding the Police Study update.
“We are planning a meeting with consultants and the townships,” Garcia-Allen said. “We are hopeful we will have something in hand at that time. We need other people and municipalities to join us. We will be discussing truck traffic, pedestrian safety and other concerns.” Council also had a discussion regarding the Junior Council Person position, specifically the age and grade qualifications. Council agreed that the person should be a freshman through senior residing in the Oxford Area School District.
Courtesy photo
Oxford Borough Council, Oxford Police Chief Sam Iacono, Sgt. Chris Coverly, and a host of visitors watched as Mayor Phil Harris swore in Jose Nava as a new, fulltime police officer. Holding the Bible for the swearing in are Nava’s parents, Donna and Jose, as he took his oath.
Allen selected as the new principal of the Charles F. Patton Middle School
The Unionville-Chadds Ford School District announced that it has selected Nick Allen as the next principal of Charles F. Patton Middle School.
Allen’s official start date will be on or about July 21, following the retirement of current principal Dr. Steve Dissinger.
“I am truly honored to be selected to serve as your next principal of Charles F. Patton Middle School,” Allen said. “I look forward to embracing the community and building upon the
culture of excellence set by Dr. Dissinger and the Patton Middle School staff.”
Allen currently serves as assistant principal of Bala Cynwyd Middle School in the Lower Merion School District. Previously, he held appointments in Lower Merion and the School District of Philadelphia as an interim assistant principal and school counselor.
Allen earned a bachelor’s degree in Human Development and Family Studies from the University of Connecticut, a mas-
ter’s degree in education from Pennsylvania State University and master’s degrees in education and counseling and mental health services from the University of Pennsylvania.
Building ‘a culture of belonging’
UCFSD Superintendent Dr. John Sanville said, “Representatives from across the UCFSD community interviewed Nick. Among a highly qualified pool of candidates, his
energy was contagious— and his commitment to high academic standards and to building a culture of belonging for every single member of our community set him apart.”
Sanville added, “Nick’s care for others and his ability to build authentic connections whether with students, families or staff has been a hallmark of his leadership style – and it’s one that we think makes him an excellent fit for our district.”
The search for the prin-
cipal began with a series of focus groups for community members. Feedback gathered from the Focus Groups informed the interview process. Like other administrative searches at UCFSD, interviews also included representatives from all corners of the community, including families, staff, administrators and school board members. This intensive process offers the district a collaborative approach to finding the best fit for the position.
Kennett Square to host Juneteenth Jubilee on June 19
By Richard L. Gaw Staff Writer
From the moment the first Mushroom Festival paraded along the streets of Kennett Borough in 1986, Kennett Square has earned a reputation as the festival capital of Chester County and likely, all of southeastern Pennsylvania.
In recognition of that platitude and in honor of Juneteenth celebrations all over Chester County, Kennett Collaborative, in partnership with several area organizations, is inviting the public to be a part of its Juneteenth Jubilee, which will take place on June 19 from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. along State Street in Kennett Square.
The event will coincide with Third Thursday, a monthly tradition that con-
verts State Street into a vibrant pedestrian hub filled with dining in the streets, live music, and community spirit.
Area organizations who will be a part of this year’s festivities include the Kennett Heritage Center, the Kennett Underground Railroad Center, The Kennett Flash, Kennett Area Community Services, the Kennett Library, the New Garden UAME Church, the Martin Luther King Community of Greater Kennett Area, the Kennett Area Park Authority and Kennett Collaborative.
In addition to the family friendly activities always offered at Third Thursdays, attendees will be able to enjoy soul-stirring African drumming by Hakim Tendaci; a dance performance by over 40 Double Dutch dancers;
music by jazz performer DJ Wayne James; a presentation by Dr. Daisy Century, a Harriet Tubman interpreter; as well as ongoing activities and food and items from one dozen food vendors and local artisans.
“The event has transformed remarkably since its inception,” said Carol A. Black, president of the MLKCommUNITY of the Greater Kennett Area. “What started as a humble gathering in a Black church on Linden Street has burgeoned into a landmark occasion that draws participants from around the region. Over the years, we’ve seen it expand not only in scale but also in scope —introducing cultural performances, music, food, games and more inclusive activities to promote cultural awareness and community cohesiveness.
“The integration of this year’s Juneteenth celebration with ‘Third Thursdays on State Street in Kennett Square has further enhanced accessibility and allows a broader audience to partake in its offerings. Each edition of Juneteenth builds on the previous one, becoming a more dynamic and multifaceted celebration of freedom.”
The Juneteenth Jubilee is free and open to the public. To learn more, and for a complete guide to all activities, visit www.juneteenthkennettsquare.com. For information about other Juneteenth celebrations in Chester County, visit: https://www.culturechesco. org/juneteenth.
To contact Staff Writer Richard L. Gaw, email rgaw@chestercounty.com.
Gawthrop Greenwood welcomes new partner
The law firm Gawthrop Greenwood, PC announced that family law attorney Donald F. Kohler has joined the firm as a partner effective on May 1.
“Don is a longtime friend of the firm who is wellknown throughout the region as the attorney you seek out for an individual
need – such as a marital separation, will preparation or neighbor dispute – and come to rely on as your family lawyer for life,” said Stephen R. McDonnell, chair of the management committee at Gawthrop Greenwood. “He treats clients just as we do, with a focus on practical solu-
tions and tireless support that results in long-term relationships for individual clients and their extended families.”
Kohler joined Gawthrop Greenwood as a partner after practicing law since 1997—including at his own successful private practice at Kohler Law Offices for the prior 12 years. Now able to offer his clients the expanded services of a larger law firm while continuing to focus on individual needs and customized strategy, he specializes in family law, including divorce, custody, support, alimony, Orphans’ Court, guardianships, adoptions and probate litigation. Kohler also has extensive experience assisting clients with estate litigation.
Kohler serves in Gawthrop
Greenwood’s West Chester office, where he is a member of the Pennsylvania Bar Association as well as past president, vice president, treasurer and secretary of the Chester County Bar Association. He is admitted to practice in U.S. district and appeals courts in Pennsylvania as well as New Jersey, has received a perfect 10.0 Avvo rating for divorce and probate, and been voted a Top Lawyer by Main Line Today more than a dozen times. Kohler has also been recognized with the Director’s Award by the Chester County Bar Association and the Service Award for the Chester County Bar Foundation.
Kohler earned his juris doctor degree from Widener University Delaware School of Law and his undergraduate degree from Penn State University. Based in Chester County since 1999, Kohler is an active member of the community. Boy Scouts of America has honored him with multiple awards, including the highest recognition a local
Courtesy photo Nick Allen
Courtesy photo
Donald F. Kohler
Summerfest: Kennett Square tradition dips and sips into Apple Alley
By Gabbie Burton Contributing Writer
A little rain couldn’t stop the wine-loving masses from getting their day-drink on at the fourth annual Kennett Summerfest hosted by Kennett Collaborative.
Over 800 attendees flocked to South Broad Street on Sunday, June 8 with rain coats and umbrellas in tow, to try samples from the 17 different wineries, cideries and meaderies as well as taste local food and listen to the live music that was
all featured at the event.
My friend and I attended the event for the second year in a row and found ourselves even more impressed than last year.
Kennett Collaborative
Executive Director Daniel Embree, shared that the event had nearly doubled in size from last year, giving us and everyone else even more to explore.
Upon arrival we made a bee-line to Honey Lane Winery – a favorite from last year when we discovered mead for the first
time and declared 2024 to be the year of the “medieval summer.” My friend sampled our favorite Black Raspberry Mead from last year and I sampled the Blueberry Mead while LuAnn McHugh and Scott Verzinskie, winemaker and beekeeper respectively, told us more about their experience at Summerfest.
“Our favorite part is seeing the reaction to our product,” McHugh said. “We have a lot of joy in it, making people smile.”
As we started to stroll through the other vendors and situate ourselves in the surrounding atmosphere, we admired the groovy jazz performance coming from the food court on Apple Alley and felt the vibes of the event steadily increase as wine and positive energy continued to flow. While rain shifted the musicians to the main stage, the performances from Tuk + The Big Brass Ones continued to impress.
After stops at some of our personal favorites Wayvine and Old Stone, we tried new and delicious offers from Dressler Estate, Casa Carmen, and Revolution Bees before deciding to break for some much needed carbs. Mini Millie’s pasta cart did just the trick with their wagyu bolognese and kale pesto pasta to keep us going. Although we did of course have to
stop back at the food court for a sweet treat at Hangry Bear ice cream and I also had to take an Emi’s gyro to go, as that’s an opportunity I will never pass up.
We closed out our Summerfest experience leaving with bottles of Chardonel from 1723 Vineyards, another personal favorite of mine after visiting the vineyard and speaking with owners Ben and Sarah Cody for a previous story this past February. The Cody’s credited Kennett Collaborative for their organization of the event and the celebration of local wines.
“It’s always a great event and Kennett Collaborative goes the extra mile to make it all work,” Ben said. “We meet new people and see our regulars, colleagues and collaborators, and it’s nice to catch up with everyone.”
In all, my friend and I left Summerfest feeling both successful and indulged. We look forward to returning next year for another perfect send off into summer.
To contact Contributing Writer Gabbie Burton, email gburton@chestercounty.com.
Samples from 1723 Vineyard were ready on ice.
Photos by Richard L. Gaw
The year's Summerfest was held not just along Broad Street but for the first year, along Apple Alley as well.
This couple patiently waited in line to refill their glasses. Paradocx and their varietals were stationed along Broad Street.
This year’s Summerfest drew 17 wine and spirits vendors, as well as 40 food and artisan vendors.
Amber Middlesworth and Samantha Wolf came prepared for the threat of rain during the festival, which drew 800 visitors along Broad Street and Apple Alley.
Niyanna Murphy and Octavio Cayetano were all hugs. One vendor from Zena Florist displays a very unique rain cover.
The event also included a performance by Bryan Tuk + The Big Brass Ones.
HELLA DOHNE
Hella Döhne, a beloved mother, grandmother, and soon-to-be great-grandmother, passed away peacefully on May 28, 2025 at the age of 86.
Born on November 4, 1938, in Kassel, Germany, Hella is predeceased by her father Dr. Ludwig Döhne, her mother Else Döhne, her brother Holger Döhne, and her ex-husband Archibald A. McKown.
A woman of intellect and quiet strength, she lived a rich and full life defined by love for her family. Hella was exceptionally strong—she survived World War II in Germany, the loss of close family members following the war, Polio at the age of 8, and Tuberculosis at the age of 27.
As a result of these early traumas, Hella experienced a lifelong struggle with mental illness, a constant battle that she fought openly, bravely, and in a manner that challenged bias and stigma.
Hella was the mother of three children, Beatrice Hiner (Michael) of Cataula, Ga., Charlotta Turner (Scott) of Baltimore, Md., and Archibald McKown (Sarah), also of Baltimore, Md. She was a proud and loving grandmother to six grandchildren, Shawn Hiner (Kumari), Lindsay Hiner, Kelly Turner, Nate Turner, AJ McKown, and Andrew McKown. With great joy and anticipation, she looked forward to welcoming her first great-grandchild
Before she had children, Hella received a trade certification as a bookseller and she reveled in her years working at Vietor’s, a well-regarded book store in Kassel. Hella volunteered at one of the first of Kassel’s “documenta” international art exhibitions, and she also worked for a time as a translator for the United States Army. After Hella moved to the United States in 1965, she taught German at the Berlitz language center in Philadelphia. Hella was an accomplished homemaker who found fulfillment in cooking and creating a warm, welcoming environment for her family. Hella enjoyed gardening and took pride in cultivating beautiful plants. A lifelong learner and lover of languages, she spoke English, German, and French fluently. Her days were often accompanied by classical music and thoughtful reading, particularly of The New York Times, which she enjoyed for its depth and perspective.
Hella’s quiet wisdom, gentle humor, and love will be missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her. A private family service will be held in her memory. In lieu of flowers, the family encourages a donation to the National Alliance on Mental Illness NAMI, the American Booksellers Association or Longwood Gardens at https://longwoodgardens.org/support —causes that brought Hella great joy.
Arrangements are being handled by the Edward L. Collins, Jr. Funeral Home, Inc. (www.elcollinsfuneralhome.com) in Oxford.
MARTHA JANE DICECCO
Martha “Jane” DiCecco passed away on May 30, 2025 at Christiana Hospital in Newark, Del. She was a 77-year-old resident of Newark, Del. Born in West Chester, she was the daughter of the late James DiCecco and the late Kaye Duncan DiCecco. Jane and her twin sister, Carolyn, grew up with their younger brother, Jim. They enjoyed spending time with their family, visiting relatives and attending family reunions.
Jane attended Avon Grove High School, Kutztown University, and the University of Pittsburgh. She worked at the University of Delaware Library and then as a law librarian at Dupont.
She was devoted to books and the subject of history, both American history and that of her own family. Jane took it upon herself to research the genealogy and origins of their family. For many years, she enjoyed hiking with the Wilmington Trail Club.
Jane was also known for loving cats, elephants, and Longwood Gardens.
She was particularly close with her family and loved spending time with them. Her nieces and nephew grew up going to “Camp DiCecco” at Aunt Jane’s house for one week every summer and it was a time that they looked forward to every year and fondly remember.
She will be remembered for her love of her family.
Jane is survived by her siblings, Carolyn DiCecco and Jim DiCecco (Judy); her nieces, Elizabeth Cinque (Michael) and Sara Woodhead (Dan); her nephew, Andrew DiCecco (Adam); and great-nieces and nephews, James, Eleanor, Lucy, and Zeke.
Services will be announced at a future date.
In lieu of flowers, contributions in her memory may be made to the National Wildlife Federation at support.nwf. org/page/donate.
Arrangements are being handled by Grieco Funeral Home & Crematory, Inc. of Kennett Square (484-734-8100).
To view Jane’s online obituary and leave condolences for the family, please visit www.griecofunerals.com.
CAROL S. BIRT
Carol S. Birt, of Oxford, passed away at her home on May 30, 2025. She was 83.
She was the wife of the late Dennis G. Birt, with whom she shared 58 years of marriage.
Born in Berwick, Pa., she was the daughter of the late Paul and Maxine Gensemer Reagan.
Carol graduated from Bloomsburg University with a degree in education.
She was employed with the Oxford Intermediate School as a teacher for 30 years and retired in 1994.
Carol was an avid bowler and enjoyed watching and playing tennis. She took pleasure in trips to the beach and her pets, and she especially loved her family and friends.
She is survived by her two daughters, Tracy Pietrinferni and her husband, Dante of Havre de Grace, Md. and Kathryn Moody and her husband Ken of Elkton, Md., and three grandchildren, Paul, Nicholas and Rian.
She was preceded in death by two brothers, Paul and Tommy Reagan.
Family and friends visited on June 6 at the Edward L. Collins, Jr. Funeral Home, Inc. in Oxford.
Interment will be private.
In lieu of flowers, contributions in her memory may be made to the SPCA, 1212 Phoenixville Pike, West Chester, Pa. 19380.
Arrangements are being handled by the Edward L. Collins, Jr. Funeral Home, Inc. in Oxford. Online condolences may be made at www.elcollinsfuneralhome.com.
David Mark Haradon, age 72, of southern Chester County, passed away on June 5, 2025. Dave was the loving husband of Peggy Lee (Murphy) Haradon, with whom he shared 51 years of marriage. Dave was born on October 23, 1952 in Nashville, Tenn. to Myron Ralph and Sara Claire Burke Haradon.
Dave fell in love with his wife, Peggy, in the Purdue University Marching Band where Dave played trumpet while studying as a chemical engineering major with a minor in marketing, and Peggy was studying to be a child life specialist while tossing a baton as a beautiful sequined majorette.
After college, Dave began a career of more than 20 years with the DuPont company in senior management sales, marketing, product management and strategic planning roles. This caused his family to live in many areas of the country: Seaford, Del., Waynesboro, Va., Wilmington, Del., Chicago, Ill., Dallas, Tex., and Kennett Square. After leaving DuPont, Dave started his own webinar production company in 2001.
Dave’s pride and joy was being called Papa by those who love him. He is remembered for eating Papa-Oh’s and Krispy Kreme donuts (especially when the hot sign is on), and of course, there’s always Papa-Tea! His grandchildren will miss Papa playing monster at the playground and soccer and ping pong in the basement, going on long walks at the beach, finding horseshoe crabs, and treating them to Starbucks! Papa loved hosting popcorn movie nights and going to the movies. He played many rounds of frisbee golf with his grandchildren. Papa always had time for a conversation and loved to both teach and learn new things.
Dave cherished traveling with Peggy and his family, whether it be their annual trips to Massanutten, going to their beach house in Bethany, Delaware, visiting the family farm in Indiana where he could jump on a tractor to mow the lawn, exploring the National Parks, or adventuring to far-away places like Australia. He enjoyed music of all kinds – concerts, musicals, performing with his trumpet, or playing his banjo and guitar late into the evening hours. Dave was also always ready for a good prank (like the great toilet paper caper), good jokes, bad jokes, and even inappropriate jokes—cue an eye roll from Peggy. He loved his family, pickleball, skiing, golfing, playing games, and most importantly “happiness.”
Dave leaves behind this legacy of happiness and love for his family, and is also well known for leaving
PHYLLIS ESME FITZGERALD
Phyllis Esme Fitzgerald, of Nottingham, passed away peacefully on June 5, 2025 while surrounded by her family. She was 93.
Born on January 11, 1932, in Dover, England, she was the daughter of the late Richard Williamson and Beatrice (Rogers) Williamson.
Phyllis was a dedicated homemaker, where she poured her heart into creating a warm and welcoming home for her loved ones.
Phyllis was especially passionate about knitting, crafting beautiful items for women’s shelters and delightful baby sweaters that brought warmth and comfort to those in need. She loved gardening, where she was often found tending to her flowers, watching every flower bloom with the love she poured into them. In addition to her knitting and gardening, Phyllis enjoyed baking for her family. She had a special talent for creating delicious sausage rolls and traditional English pastries. The aroma of her baked goods would fill her home. Phyllis will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all who were fortunate to know her.
Phyllis is survived by Maurice Fitzgerald, her loving husband of 69 years; her daughters, Ann Fanning (James), Susan Corby (Gerald), and Jane Amorin (Thomas); and grandchildren, Sean Fanning (Amy), John Amorin, and Jennifer Amorin.
In addition to her parents, Phyllis is preceded in death by a grandson, Justin Corby.
At the convenience of the family, services will be held privately.
To send an online condolence, please visit, www.rtfoard.com.
DAVID MARK HARADON
the world a better place through service to his community. Dave’s community service efforts started in his high school Key Club (Kiwanis) and continued during his early career with senior leadership roles in Jaycee International. In those early years, he was recognized as the Young Virginia Man of the Year in the late 1970s.
After their children went off to college, Dave began serving with countless organizations in the southern Chester County community. Dave joined the Longwood Rotary Club in Kennett Square in May 1999 “just because someone asked him to.” As a second-generation Rotarian and Paul Harris Fellow (Dave’s Father: Club PresidentClinton, Iowa) he was Longwood Rotary Club’s President from 2008-2009, District 7450 Conference Chair in 2011, Rotary Leadership Institute (RLI) instructor, District 7450 Corporate Board of Director member, District Treasurer, and Rotary District 7450 Governor from 2016-2017. Dave’s passion for both individual and organizational leadership was manifested in many white papers, articles, and even a course on transformational leadership through the Rotary Leadership Institute “Transforming Your Rotary Club: How to Create an EXTRAORDINARY Rotary Club for your Members, Your Community and the World.” He instructed thousands of people in hundreds of organizations about creating extraordinary lives and showing how this relates to leading extraordinary organizations. One of Dave’s favorite quotes that reinforces Rotary’s ”Service Above Self” motto is, “The best way to find your own self is to lose yourself in the service of others,” by Mahatma Gandhi.
In addition to his work with the Rotary Club, Dave was the founding Board President of Family Promise, an inter-faith model to serve the homeless children and their families in Southern Chester County. He served as the Kennett Square Memorial Day Parade Committee Chairman, served for two years on the Historic Kennett Square Board of Directors and spent a year as the Oxford Main Street Executive Director. He was on the Board of Directors of the Oxford Area Civic Association and served as co-facilitator/leader with the bi-monthly Kennett Square “Bridging the Community” organization that brings people together to help meet the needs of the Kennett Square area and provides community service volunteer opportunities for residents.
Together with Dansko, Inc., Dave helped “bridge” Project Cure, the largest provider of donated medical supplies and equipment to developing countries, resulting in the establishment of a new Project Cure refurbishment and
distribution center in the former Dansko headquarters facility in West Grove.
Dave was also actively involved with local YMCAs, including serving as a technical producer for numerous Kennett YMCA and Jennersville YMCA Good Kids fundraising dinners. He also served on the Kennett YMCA Golf Fundraising Committee and on the Jennersville YMCA’s Togetherhood community service program committee. Dave also volunteered with or served with the Episcopal Church of the Advent, the Kennett Food Cupboard, LaComunidad Hispana, the Kennett Senior Center, and the United Way of Southern Chester County.
Dave was honored as Outstanding Citizen of the Year by the Southern Chester County Chamber of Commerce in 2015. Dave once said, “You can change someone’s life forever in a five-minute conversation along with the life of their friends, the life of the family and the lives of people that you will never know. That’s the game we are in. The game of ‘service above self.’ The game of making a difference in someone’s life. Not by using a selfie stick, but using a selfless stick to build a better world.”
Dave will forever be remembered by his son, Jonathon Mark Haradon, and wife Sarah; his daughter, Marcia Lynne Preston, and husband Darrin; his grandchildren, Marlowe Lee Haradon, Mason Burke Haradon, Braydon David Preston, Madelyn Lee Preston, Destiny Alexis Preston, and Cody Sean Preston, and several great-grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his sister, Vera Lynne Haradon.
A funeral service to celebrate Dave’s life will be held Monday, June 16 at 2 p.m. at Church of the Advent in Kennett Square, with viewing at 1 p.m. Please wear colorful attire to help celebrate Dave’s happy life. In lieu of flowers, contributions in Dave’s memory may be made to the Longwood Rotary Foundation https://longwoodrotary.com/page/rotary-foundation. The family also encourages everyone to pick up trash, sign up for a community service event, or do something nice for someone in Dave’s memory. In Dave’s words: “Consider the possibility of simply doing something for someone else, simply because you can.”
Arrangements are being handled by Grieco Funeral Home & Crematory, Inc. (484-734-8100) of Kennett Square.
To view Dave’s online obituary and share a memory of Dave with the family, please visit www.griecofunerals.com.
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 6/25/25 at 10:00 AM. Fernando Baeza unit #8; Derrick M Mason unit #Parking3 This sale may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Certain terms and conditions apply.
NOTICE: DEStorage.com Newgarden
Located at 710 Newark Rd Landenberg, PA 19350
Will be holding a Public ONLINE Auction at www.ibid4storage.com
Closing on July 16, 2025 at 10 AM.
The following units will be sold because of nonpayment of rent pursuant to the Pennsylvania Self Service Storage Facilities Act. Auction bidding and additional information about the contents, including photographs, is available on www.ibid4storage.com. Sale and payment will take place at the storage facility. Containing: Furniture, household items, totes, clothing, and boxes Unit #1300 Lisa Brothwood Unit #1240 Hollie Anderson
DEStorage.com
Newgarden reserves the right to withdraw any storage unit from sale or cancel the sale without prior notice.
ESTATE NOTICE
ESTATE OF JUDY SALATINO
a/k/a JUDY A. SALATINO, DECEASED. Late of Londonderry 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 CAMILLE SCHALLER, EXECUTRIX, c/o Daniel R. Coleman, Esq., 300 W. State St., Ste. 300, Media, PA 19063, Or to her Attorney: DANIEL R. COLEMAN, ECKELL, SPARKS, LEVY, AUERBACH, MONTE, SLOANE, MATTHEWS & AUSLANDER, P.C. 300 W. State St., Ste. 300, Media, PA 19063 5p-28-3t
ESTATE NOTICE
ESTATE OF PEGGY ELAINE CHANNELL a/k/a PEGGY E. CHANNELL, DECEASED. Late of London Grove 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 AMY L. HUNTER, EXECUTRIX, 332 Mourning Dove Dr., Newark, DE 19711, Or to her Attorney: KRISTEN R. MATTHEWS KRISTEN MATTHEWS LAW, 14 E. Welsh Pool Rd., Exton, PA 19341
5p-28-3t NOTICE
PENNSBURY TOWNSHIP
ZONING HEARING BOARD
NOTICE is hereby given that the Zoning Hearing Board of Pennsbury Township will hold a Public Hearing at the Pennsbury Township Building, 702 Baltimore Pike, Chadds Ford, Pennsylvania, on June 19, 2025, at 7:00 p.m. at which time the Board will hear the following matter: In Re: Application of Allison and Gabriel Skidd, seeking a variance from the fifteen percent (15%) maximum limit of impervious coverage under zoning Ordinance Section 162.503 C. 1. so as to permit the construction of a three hundred eighty-four (384) square foot shed, a one hundred twenty-seven (127) square foot driveway extension, walkways, pool patio, fire pit and retaining walls, resulting in eighteen percent (18%) total impervious coverage on property located at 11 Twin Turns Lane, Chadds Ford, PA 19317 (UPI No. 643-89.12) in the Township’s R-2 Residential Zoning District.
If you are a person with a disability and wish to attend the public meeting scheduled above and require an auxiliary aide, service or other accommodation to participate in the proceedings, please contact Dan Boyle at 610-388-7323 to discuss how Pennsbury Township may best accommodate your needs. Edward M. Foley, Solicitor, Brutscher, Foley, Milliner, Land & Kelly, LLP, 213 East State Street, Kennett Square, PA 19348
6p-4-2t
PUBLIC NOTICE
West Grove Home Care, LLC of West Grove, PA will cease operations on June 25, 2025, and will no longer participate in the
NOTICE:
West Grove & Jennersville Self Storage West Grove, PA
Will be holding a Public ONLINE Auction at storageauctions.com
CLOSING June 27, 2025 @ 10:00 am
Contents in the following units will be sold due to nonpayment of rent pursuant to the PA Self Service Storage Facilities Act to satisfy the owner’s lien.
West Grove Mini Storage, 280 Kelton Road, West Grove PA 19390, (610) 869-4032
430 Elodegario Mercado; 442 Randy Oliver; 222 Alfredo Rivera; 608 Gayle Winters; 732 Marc Madonna; 703 Alex Weeks
Jennersville Self Storage, 3 Briar Drive, West Grove PA 19390, (610) 869-7060
167 Joseph Rodriguez; 166 Julianne Bruecks
Property will be sold by unit to the highest bidder.
Payment will take place at West Grove Mini Storage 280 Kelton Road, West Grove PA; CASH ONLY Bidding and information about the contents, including pictures, is available on storageauctions.com
Company reserves the right to remove any storage unit from sale, refuse any online bid and cancel sale without prior notice.
Medicare Program as provided under Title XVIII of the Social Security Act. The Medicare provider agreement between West Grove Home Care, LLC and the federal Department of Health and Hospitals will terminate effective June 25, 2025. The Medicare program will not make payment for services furnished to any patients who may be admitted on or after June 25th,2025. However, Medicare payment is available for services provided under a plan of care established before the effective date of termination for a period of thirty (30) days following closure. Healthcare records of current and former patients of West Grove Home Care, LLC will be maintained by, and will be available from, LHC Group, Inc., 901 Hugh Wallis Road South, Lafayette, Louisiana 70508; telephone: (337) 233-130 6p-11-1t
NOTICE
POCOPSON TOWNSHIP ZONING HEARING BOARD
NOTICE is hereby given that the Zoning Hearing Board of Pocopson Township will hold a Public Hearing at the Pocopson Township Municipal Building, 664 South Wawaset Road, West Chester, Pennsylvania, 19382, on July 1, 2025, at 6:30 p.m. at which time the Board will hear the following matter: In RE: Application of Richard and Rebecca Luzzi seeking a special exception to allow disturbance of more than the 25% maximum of the steep slope margins under Section 250-87.D(1)(b) of the Zoning Ordinance and seeking a de minimis variance from the 10% maximum impervious coverage under Ordinance Section 250-20.C(9), and such other relief as may be required so as to allow 10.71% coverage, both so as to enable the construction of a residential dwelling and driveway on property located at 101 Indian Hannah Road, West Chester, PA (UPI #63-3-1.3) in
the Township’s RA-Residential and Agricultural Zoning District. If you are a person with a disability and wish to attend the public meeting scheduled above and require an auxiliary aide, service or other accommodation to participate in the proceedings; or if you wish to participate remotely, please contact Neil D. Vaughn at 610-793-2151 to discuss how Pocopson Township may best accommodate your needs. Edward M. Foley, Solicitor, Brutscher, Foley, Milliner, Land & Kelly, LLP, 213 East State Street, Kennett Square, PA 19348 6p-11-2t
ESTATE NOTICE
ESTATE OF JACOB RIFE ZELLER, JR. A/K/A JACOB R. ZELLER, JR., late of West Goshen Township, Chester County, Pennsylvania. LETTERS 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 Jonathan J. Zeller, 216 Roberts Lane, Coatesville, PA, 19320, Personal Representative. C/O Douglas C. Loviscky, Esquire, 1500 West College Avenue, State College, PA 16801, Attorney. 6p-11-3t
ESTATE NOTICE
ESTATE OF Eckman, Cathy a/k/a Cathy H., dec’d. Late of Honey Brook Boro. 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 Executor: Merrilee B. Downs, c/o Good Law Firm, 132 West Main Street, New Holland, PA 17557 6p-11-3t
PUBLIC NOTICE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN
The Elk Township Board of Supervisors will hold a Special Meeting to discuss commitment of funds to the Lewisville Easement Project on June 13th, 2025 at 5pm 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. 6p-11-1t
NOTICE ACTION TO QUIET TITLE IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS, OF CHESTER COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA, CIVIL ACTION – LAW, NO.: 2024-07633-RC TO: Jacquelyn Welsh and Stephen W. Welsh, Jr., and all persons having or claiming to have any right, lien, title, interest in or claim against 116 West Sherwood Drive, Township of East Nottingham, County of Chester, Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
TAKE NOTICE THAT GS Mortgage Holdings X, LLC has filed a Complaint in Action to Quiet Title in the aforesaid Court as of the above term and number, and praying the Court to adjudicate and decree their title and right of possession to said premises, more particularly described in the said Complaint, indefeasible as against all rights and claims whatsoever, and you are hereby notified to file an Answer within twenty (20) days following the date of this publication, in default of which an Order may be entered as prayed for against you, requiring you to take such action as may be ordered by the Court within thirty days after the entry of such Order in default of which final judgment shall be entered. If you wish to defend, you must enter a written appearance personally or by attorney and file your defenses or objections
in writing with the Court. You are warned that if you fail to do so the case may proceed without you and a judgment may be entered against you without further notice for the relief requested by Plaintiff. You may lose money or property or other rights important to you. YOU SHOULD TAKE THIS NOTICE TO YOUR LAWYER AT ONCE. IF YOU DO NOT HAVE A LAWYER AND WISH TO RETAIN ONE, PLEASE CALL THE NUMBER LISTED BELOW: LAWYER REFERAL SERVICE 610-429-1500. CLYMER MUSSER & SARNO PC, Christopher A. Sarno, Esq., 408 W. Chestnut Street, Lancaster, PA 17603 (717) 299-7101 6p-11-1t
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 Wednesday, June 18 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, July 21st, 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. 25-6-156 Writ of Execution No. 2024-05933 DEBT $242,689.33
ALL THAT CERTAIN lot or piece of ground situated in Franklin Township, Chester County, Pennsylvania, bounded and described according to a Final subdivision Plan of Kimbelot Section I, IA and II made by George E. Regester, Jr., and Sons, Inc., Registered Land Surveyors dated February 18, 1976 and recorded in Chester County as Plan No. 299 as follows, to wit:
BEGINNING at a point on the Southeasterly side of Kimbelot Drive (50 feet wide) on the said plan a corner of Lot 11 on the said plan; thence along the said Southeasterly side of the said Kimbelot Drive the two following courses and distances: (1)
A community conversation about green spaces at Henrietta Hankin Branch Library
Courtesy photo
The Henrietta Hankin Branch Library will host a meaningful discussion about green spaces on Wednesday, June 18, from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. The discussion will focus on the importance of green spaces and will be facilitated by the Bridging Blocks team. WHYY News’ Bridging Blocks program is an initiative that brings together community members on hot-button topics to foster civic dialogue in supportive spaces. The Henrietta Hankin Branch Library is located at 215 Windgate Drive in Chester Springs. For hours or more information, visit the website at www.chescolibraries.org.
of beginning.
Containing 1.027 acres of land more or less.
BEING Lot 11 on the said plan.
BEING the same premises which Frank J. Bellan and Helen F. Bellan, by deed dated August 16, 1985 and recorded August 21, 1985 at Book 50, Page 111 in the Office of the Recorder of Deeds of Chester County, PA, granted and conveyed unto John V. Sullivan and Diane R. Sullivan, as tenants by the entirety, in fee.
Tax Parcel # 72-05-0036.01K
PLAINTIFF: PNC Bank, National Association VS
DEFENDANT: John V. Sullivan and Diane R. Sullivan
SALE ADDRESS: 9 Kimbelot Lane a/k/a 91 Box Kimbelot Lane, Landenberg, PA 19350
PLAINTIFF ATTORNEY: LOGS LEGAL GROUP LLP 610-2786800
N.B. Ten percent (10%) of the purchase money must be paid at the time of the on-line sale. Payment must be made via Bid4Assets. The balance must be paid within twenty-one (21) days from the date of sale via Bid4Assets. KEVIN D. DYKES, SHERIFF 5p-28-3t
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 Wednesday, June 18 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, July 21st, 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. 25-6-157
Writ of Execution No. 2018-11548
DEBT $367,144.70
PROPERTY SITUATE IN NEW GARDEN TOWNSHIP
Tax Parcel # 60-040-171
IMPROVEMENTS thereon: a residential dwelling
PLAINTIFF: M&T BANK VS DEFENDANT: BOUBACAR TOURE
SALE ADDRESS: 106 Birkdale Circle, Avondale, PA 19311
PLAINTIFF ATTORNEY: KML LAW GROUP, P.C. 215-6271322
N.B. Ten percent (10%) of the purchase money must be paid at the time of the on-line sale. Payment must be made via Bid4Assets. The balance must be paid within twenty-one (21) days from the date of sale via Bid4Assets. KEVIN D. DYKES,
SHERIFF
5p-28-3t
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 Wednesday, June 18 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, July 21st, 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. 25-6-172
Writ of Execution No. 2024-04968 DEBT $359,589.10
MUNICIPALITY: LONDON GROVE TOWNSHIP, CHESTER COUNTY
UPI # 59-4-25.3
IMPROVEMENTS thereon: a residential dwelling; FARM
CONTAINING 16.6 ACRES
PLAINTIFF: NewRez LLC d/b/a Shellpoint Mortgage Servicing VS DEFENDANT: STEPHANIE K. D’AMICO
SALE ADDRESS: 130 Lloyd Road, West Grove, PA 19390
PLAINTIFF ATTORNEY: ROBERT P. WENDT, ESQ. 914-2195787 EXT 490
N.B. Ten percent (10%) of the purchase money must be paid at the time of the on-line sale. Payment must be made via Bid4Assets. The balance must be paid within twenty-one (21) days from the date of sale via Bid4Assets. KEVIN D. DYKES, SHERIFF 5p-28-3t
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 Wednesday, June 18 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, July 21st, 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. 25-6-173
Writ of Execution No. 2024-01645 DEBT $400,255.86
PROPERTY SITUATE IN TOWNSHIP OF PENN
Tax Parcel # 58-4-105.2R
IMPROVEMENTS thereon: a residential dwelling
PLAINTIFF: loanDepot.com. LLC VS DEFENDANT: LOUIS W. KULACK AKA LOUIS KULACK
SALE ADDRESS: 261 Sunnyside Road, West Grove, PA 19390
PLAINTIFF ATTORNEY: KML LAW GROUP, P.C. 215-6271322
N.B. Ten percent (10%) of the purchase money must be paid at the time of the on-line sale. Payment must be made via Bid4Assets. The balance must be paid within twenty-one (21) days from the date of sale via Bid4Assets. KEVIN D. DYKES, SHERIFF 5p-28-3t
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 Wednesday, June 18 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, July 21st, 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. 25-6-175
Writ of Execution No. 2024-08460
DEBT $155,139.55
ALL THAT CERTAIN lot or piece of ground, Situate in the Township of Londonderry, Chester County, Pennsylvania, bounded and described according to a Plan of property of Gordon S. Waters, made by George E. Register, Jr. and Sons, Inc., dated February 24, 1977, as follows to wit:
BEGINNING at a point set in the title line in the bed of Public Road T-356, known as White Horse School Road, said road leading in a Northernly direction to Gum Tree and in Southernly direction to Pennsylvania Route 926 said point marking a corner of this about to be described tract and a corner of Lot #6-B, on said Plan, owned by Gordon S. Waters, et ux, thence leaving said point of beginning, leaving said title line in said road and by lands of Lot #6-B, on said Plan, North 69 degrees 35 minutes 48 seconds West, 524.96 feet to a point marking a corner of Lot #5, on said Plan, owned by Gordon S. Waters, et ux; thence by Lot #5, North 77 degrees; 35 minutes, 47 seconds East, 546.43 feet to a point set in the title line in the bed of first mentioned Public Record T-356; thence by said line in said road, the following four courses and distance to wit: 1) South 26 degrees, 10 minutes, 00 seconds East 54.70 feet to a point; 2) South 10 degrees, 58 minutes, 00 seconds East, 101.42 feet to a point; 3) South 22 degrees, 09 minutes, 00 seconds West, 99.90 feet to a point; 4) South
35 degrees, 55 minutes, 00 seconds West, 215.70 feet to the first mentioned point and place of beginning.
Being Lot 6-A as shown on the above-mentioned plan.
Tax Parcel # 46-3-43
PLAINTIFF: Sun East Federal Credit Union VS DEFENDANT: Brooke L. Henderson & Glen R. Henderson
SALE ADDRESS: 337 White Horse Road, Cochranville, PA 19330
PLAINTIFF ATTORNEY: M. JACQUELINE LARKIN, ESQ. 215-569-2400
N.B. Ten percent (10%) of the purchase money must be paid at the time of the on-line sale. Payment must be made via Bid4Assets. The balance must be paid within twenty-one (21) days from the date of sale via Bid4Assets. KEVIN D. DYKES, SHERIFF 5p-28-3t
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 Wednesday, June 18 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, July 21st, 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. 25-6-180 Writ of Execution No. 2017-11590 DEBT $1,087,262.95
LEGAL DESCRIPTION ALL THAT CERTAIN, MESSAGE, LOT OR PIECE OF LAND SITUATE ON, IN THE TOWNSHIP OF KENNETT, COUNTY OF CHESTER, STATE OF PENNSYLVANIA, BOUNDED AND DESCRIBED, AS FOLLOWS, TO WIT:
All That Certain lot or piece of ground with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate in Kennett Township, Chester County, Pennsylvania, bounded and described according to a Subdivision Plan prepared for Thirgen LLC, prepared by River Basin Engineering, dated 3/30/2004, last revised 10/28/2004 and recorded on 2/8/2005, as Plan #17329, as follows, to wit:
Beginning at a point in the bed of East Hillendale Road (T-343), being a comer of lands now or late of Betty J. Crosson and Karen Elaine Buckingham;
thence leaving said point of beginning, leaving East Hillendale Road, along the lands now or late of Betty J. Crosson and Karen Elaine Buckingham and partly along lands now or late of Gerald F., Jr. and Sybil S. Curtin, South 22 degrees 41 minutes 16 seconds East, 342.23 feet to a point, marking a corner of Lot #2; thence along Lot #2, South 67 degrees 18 minutes 49 seconds West, 303.97 feet to a point in the line of Lot #3; thence along Lot #3 North 22 degrees 41 minutes 16 seconds West, 45.22 feet to a point in the line of lands now or late of Peter F. Petroll thence along the said lands now or late of Peter F. Petroll, the 2 following courses and distances; (1) North 67 degrees 49 minutes 19 seconds East, 30.51 feet to a point; (2) North 22 degrees 41 minutes 16 seconds West, 330.57 feet to a point in the bed of the first mentioned East Hillendale Road; thence along the bed of East Hillendale Road, North 68 degrees 17 minutes 00 seconds East, 273.50 feet to the first mentioned point and place of beginning.
Being Lot #1 as shown on said Plan.
Containing 2.3745 acres of land, be the same more or less.
BEING THE SAME PROPERTY CONVEYED TO BABATUNDE EBODA AND MONICA EBODA, HUSBAND AND WIFE WHO ACQUIRED TITLE, AS TENANTS BY THE ENTIRETY, BY VIRTUE OF A DEED FROM C. ANASTASIADIS CO., INC., A DELAWARE CORPORATION, DATED AUGUST 15, 2007, RECORDED AUGUST 17, 2007, AT DOCUMENT ID 10781078, AND RECORDED IN BOOK 7242, PAGE 2118, OFFICE OF THE RECORDER OF DEEDS, CHESTER COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA.
UPI # 62-02-0068
PLAINTIFF: HBSC Bank USA, National Association, as Trustee for Wells Fargo Asset Securities Corporation, Mortgage PassThrough Certificates, Series 2007-AR5 VS
DEFENDANT: Babatunde Eboda; Monica Eboda
SALE ADDRESS: 100 Black Cherry Lane, Chadds Ford, PA 19317
PLAINTIFF ATTORNEY: MDK LEGAL 614-220-5611
N.B. Ten percent (10%) of the purchase money must be paid at the time of the on-line sale. Payment must be made via Bid4Assets. The balance must be paid within twenty-one (21) days from the date of sale via Bid4Assets. KEVIN D. DYKES, SHERIFF 5p-28-3t Home:
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Pride, joy, and resilience filled the air at Harrisburg Area Community College as 15 students from Avon Grove School District (AGSD) were recently honored during the Migrant Education Program (MEP) graduation. The ceremony recognized not only academic achievement but also the strength, perseverance, and cultural pride that shaped each student’s journey.
The celebration brought together students, families, educators, and community partners in recognition of this meaningful milestone. Representatives from the Chester County Intermediate Unit, Migrant Education Program, Technical College High
School, The Garage Community & Youth Center, and the district gathered to support the graduates and their accomplishments.
“This celebration is more than a graduation—it’s a testament to the determination, resilience, and heart of our students and their families,” said Dr. Scott DeShong, superintendent of AGSD. “Their journeys inspire all of us in education to keep striving to make sure every learner is prepared to succeed and lead full and meaningful lives.”
“Our students have learned how to navigate a new language, build friendships, and become culturally flexible—all while staying focused on their dreams,” said Emlyn Frangiosa,
supervisor of teaching and learning. “Today is a celebration of their courage, hard work, and the families and educators who supported them every step of the way.”
The ceremony featured powerful speeches and emotional moments as graduates reflected on their individual journeys. Whether pursuing higher education, career training, or entering the workforce, each student left the stage with a renewed sense of purpose and pride.
“Today’s ceremony was a beautiful celebration of our MEP graduates,” said English as a Second Language teacher Katrina DePalma. “Thinking about who our students were four years ago and seeing how
far they’ve come really shows how strong and resilient they are. Seeing them recognized today made me so proud and it was beyond
well deserved. Congrats, MEP Class of 2025!”
This year’s Migrant Education Program Graduation once again hon-
ored not only diplomas, but the deeply personal stories behind them—a reminder of the power of education, community, and resilience.
Academic excellence celebrated at the 2025 Breakfast of Champions
After several months of studying, practicing, and rigorous competing, Chester County high school students gathered at the 2025 Breakfast of Champions event that honored the hard work of the Chester County Academic Competition teams.
Coaches and academic team members attended to share memories from throughout the season, connect with teams from other schools, celebrate academic excellence, and come together one last time for the 2024-25 school year.
The breakfast began with opening remarks by Jay Della Ragione, special events coordinator for the Chester County Intermediate Unit (CCIU), and a welcome message from Jennifer Chicosky, marketing and community engagement manager at the CCIU.
The welcome wrapped up with an inspiring speech from Rick Durante, who serves as the director of social corporate responsibility and government affairs for the academic competition’s premier sponsor, the Franklin Mint Federal Credit Unit (FMFCU).
After the opening speeches, everyone enjoyed a buffet-style brunch prepared by the country club staff.
“The Breakfast of Champions reminds us that behind every dedicated study session held and correct answer given is a student who showed up, gave their best, and grew because of it,” said Della Ragione. “This event is a celebration not only of academic excellence, but also of perseverance, teamwork, and passion for learning. It’s an honor to recognize these students and the communities that support their journey.”
The highlight of the event was the message offered by keynote speaker Joshua Mensah. Mensah is a Coatesville Area Senior High School alum and former standout in the Chester County Academic Competition who was honored with the Most Valuable Player (MVP) award in 2014.
A graduate of Cornell University and Stanford Law School, he now works at Amazon with a focus on cloud services and technology transactions. His message to the students emphasized the value of curiosity, connection, and joy.
“A significant lesson I learned as someone who was very competitive in high school is that the people you are with, the community you are build-
ing, and the relationships you form are more important than any individual score, award, or competition,” said Mensah.
When asked what advice he would give to the academic competition participants who are graduating this year, he answered, “The door is never closed. Instead, it is wide open to approach adulthood in your own way. Rather than trying to come up with a perfect path, try everything and explore all possibilities.”
The 2025 Breakfast of Champions concluded with an awards ceremony to honor one individual from each of the Chester County teams as MVP. Additionally, the Chester County Coach of the Year and the Howard M. Reinard Jr. Competitor of the Year were announced, as well as the newly minted Heart of the Team award.
The Coach of the Year is an annual recognition awarded to one Chester County Academic Competition coach for leading by example and fostering a commitment to excellence and fair play. This year, the award was presented to Stephen DiRomualdo of Downingtown STEM Academy.
The honor of Competitor of the Year is awarded to a Chester County Academic
Competition participant who has demonstrated exemplary team leadership and outstanding performance. This year’s Howard M. Reinard Jr. Competitor of the Year award was presented to Travis Johnson of Great Valley High School, who was also selected as the team’s MVP.
“I am shocked, ecstatic, and very happy,” said Johnson. “It feels good to be recognized in this way, and I can feel the strength of the community around me.”
“The leadership and collaboration of academic competition taught me that everyone has something to contribute in their own unique way... it demonstrates the value of other people,” concluded
Johnson.
The Heart of the Team award, an honor which is new to the program this year, was presented to Alyssa Russell of Avon Grove Charter School. Russell was recognized for consistently demonstrating character, compassion, and camaraderie throughout the academic competition season.
“I am deeply honored to receive this award. I have spent all my high school years focusing on academic accomplishments,” said Russell. “I hope that I have taught my teammates about the importance of humility and learning from mistakes. It’s okay to try your best.”
The Chester County Academic Competition is
facilitated by the CCIU and sponsored by the FMFCU, the Pennsylvania State Education Association (PSEA), the Children’s Fund of Chester County (CFCC), and CCRES Educational and Behavioral Health Services. The mission of the Chester County Academic Competition is to promote lifelong learning, celebrate academic achievement, and enhance self confidence in high school students as members of a team by providing health yet challenging opportunities for students to develop academic, social, and personal skills. To learn more about the Chester County Academic Competition, please visit www.cciu.org/ academic-competition.
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Migrant Education Program students were recently recognized at the 2025 MEP graduation held at Harrisburg Area Community College.
Alyssa Russell of Avon Grove Charter School was the inaugural recipient of the Heart of the Team Award.
Keynote speaker Joshua Mensah, a graduate of Coatesville Area Senior High School, addressed a room full of academic competition participants with a message about the value of curiosity, connection, and joy.
Keynote speaker Joshua Mensah posed with his former academic competition coach from Coatesville Area Senior High School, Kenneth Jones.
Travis Johnson of Great Valley High School was honored as the recipient of the 2025 Howard M. Reinard Jr., Competitor of the Year Award.
Students from across Chester County recently gathered for the annual Reading Olympics, a highenergy, quiz bowl-style competition in which school-based teams answer questions from a curated list of books during several competition dates that span April and May.
The event, which is organized by the Chester County Intermediate Unit (CCIU), encourages young learners from elementary levels through high school to read for comprehension, work together as a team, and share their love of literature in a spirited academic setting.
The Reading Olympics is
Chester County students compete in Reading Olympics
The competition celebrates teamwork and the love of books
more than just a competition; it’s a celebration of literacy, camaraderie, and critical thinking. Students take on an assigned reading list and split the reading between team members, so that each student may read four to five books and specialize in the content of each book. They then gather on competition days to tackle questions about the books, testing their understanding of the content and their ability to work as a team to come up with the correct answers.
“When students commit to reading a variety of books and preparing with their peers, they’re doing more than getting ready
for a competition—they’re building habits that will benefit them for a lifetime,” said Kathy Gurnee, one of two special events coordinators who organized this important event. “Reading strengthens comprehension, sparks imagination, and improves communication, all while helping students see the world through different perspectives.
“Events like this show how academic challenges can also be joyful, social experiences. It’s incredibly rewarding to see so many students excited about reading and supporting one another.”
Student participant Ronnie Bednarz, a junior
answer questions about the books they read for the event.
from Oxford Area High School, underscored the positive experience of competing in this event.
“It’s a lot of fun,” he said. “I get to hang out with my friends, and it gives me an excuse to read, which I enjoy doing.”
Bednarz took preparation for this event seriously.
His enthusiasm reflects the underlying benefits for students who participate in this event, as emphasized by his mother and event volunteer, Maria Bednarz.
“I think the Reading Olympics is good for the students,” she said. “They get to practice teamwork when they discuss answers to the questions, and reading books has tremendous benefits.”
The Reading Olympics exemplifies how academic events can be
“I went a little nuts on the spreadsheet and added a scoreboard and little medal emojis that show up next to people’s names if they have read a lot of books. I also set up a function to color code automatically for books that need to be read,” he said.
engaging, inclusive, and enriching. Students don’t just read—they connect, collaborate, and grow.
As the competition continues to thrive across southeastern Pennsylvania, including Berks, Bucks, Carbon Lehigh, Delaware, and Montgomery counties, it remains a beacon of how schools can create a lasting positive impact through the power of books.
To learn more about the Chester County Reading Olympics, please visit www.cciu.org/ reading-olympics.
The Reading Olympics team from Oxford Area High School, who called themselves Present and Accounted For, proudly showed off their award ribbons at the conclusion of the event.
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The recent Chester County Reading Olympics featured sessions for elementary, middle, and high school students. Pictured here is a team from Valley Forge Middle School, who called themselves the Bookie Monsters, as they worked together to
A Night with Chris Herren offered messages of hope and resilience
The Chester County Intermediate Unit (CCIU), in partnership with Immaculata University, collaborated to host A Night with Chris Herren on April 22. This free event helped to kick off mental health awareness month and was an unforgettable night filled with a message of hope, resilience, and inspiration for the community.
“The Chris Herren event was one of the most powerful evenings we’ve ever experienced,” said Andrew Reigle, special education supervisor at the CCIU.
“Chris’s story was raw, honest, and deeply humane, and it resonated in a way that left the entire room moved and inspired.”
Herren, a former player in the National Basketball Association and Massachusetts native, spoke about his struggles with addiction to alcohol and drugs. He reflected on his experiences growing up in a home impacted by addiction and how it affected his journey. Herren
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Former NBA player Chris Herren shared his personal journey, offering the audience a powerful new perspective on addiction and recovery.
has been living in recovery for over 16 years. The evening concluded with a brief question-and-answer session.
With honesty and directness, Herren shared his personal journey, offering the audience a powerful new perspective on addiction and recovery. Following his own path to sobriety, he founded the Herren Project – a nonprofit dedicated to
providing free support services for individuals and families affected by addiction. He later established Herren Wellness, which expands on this mission by offering a range of wellness-based services in Massachusetts. Through life coaching, holistic therapies, and family support, both organizations are committed to fostering long-term recovery and healing.
To learn more about the resources available from the Herren Project and Herren Wellness to help individuals and their families recover from addiction, please visit www.herrenproject.org/ family-support-resources and www.herrenwellness. com/our-services.
As part of the Chester County Intermediate Unit’s ongoing commitment to mental health and wellbeing, the CCIU prioritizes mental health by ensuring that adequate resources and support systems are available to everyone in the community.
“Bringing Chris Herren to our community was more than just an event—it was a catalyst for reflection, conversation, and hope,” stated Reigle. “The success of the night speaks to the hunger people have for authenticity and the power of shared stories.”
Behind the scenes of Technical College High School’s engine technology classroom
In the lively Engine Technology Program workshop at Technical College High School (TCHS) Pennock’s Bridge, instructor Jenny Sassaman moves between workstations with purpose, checking on students as they install speakers, work on subwoofers, and disassemble engines.
Recently named Chester County Intermediate Unit’s (CCIU) Employee of the Month, Sassaman embodies dedication to hands-on education. As part of the CCIU-operated TCHS, she plays a key role in preparing students for future careers through immersive, career-focused learning.
True to form, she plans to pay it forward by using her award gift card to host a classroom party for her students—a testament to her commitment as a teacher.
“It’s not just my students who thrive here—I thrive as a teacher,” Sassaman explained, wearing the same uniform as her students. “I get to know them personally and tailor their learning experience.”
For third-year student Nathan Rhoades, this approach makes all the difference.
“I never liked sitting at a desk for eight hours listening to someone talk,” he said.
As shop supervisor of the program, Rhoades oversees his peers, ensuring that safety protocols are followed responsibly. This leadership role has shaped his educational journey.
“I work alongside them and show them that learning can be exciting,” Sassaman said. “I encourage them to make choices and bring in their own projects.”
Success stories abound, like one student who overcame his shyness to becoming a confident leader. “Now, he can weld circles around me!” Sassaman said. “He’s earned multiple certifications and will be our graduation speaker.”
TCHS operates on a part-time model—students take academic classes at their sending schools and travel to TCHS for technical training. This approach blends traditional education with specialized skills, preparing students for a range of careers.
“They’re learning hands-on, in real-world situations,” Sassaman said. “That makes all the difference.”
In a world dominated by digital experiences, Sassaman’s classroom stands as proof that hands-on learning, fueled by dedicated teachers willing to share both knowledge and
accomplishments, prepares students for success beyond the school walls.
For more information, please visit www.technicalcollegehighschool.org.
Chester County Sheriff’s Office strengthens Special Operations Units to enhance public safety
The Chester County Sheriff’s Office continues to strengthen and expand its Special Operations Units, reinforcing its commitment to proactive law enforcement and public safety. These specialized teams play a vital role in high-risk response, apprehension of dangerous individuals, and community protection.
“Our Special Operations Units are a critical force multiplier for the county,” said Chester County Sheriff Kevin Dykes. “They allow us to respond swiftly, strategically, and safely in the most complex and urgent scenarios while continuing to build trust through professional and disciplined policing.”
As part of its broader commitment to operational readiness and commitment, the Sheriff’s Office is investing in critical operation units such as fugitive apprehension, motorcycle, K-9, field force operations, and protective intelligence. The Fugitive Apprehension Unit FAU focuses on tracking and apprehending individuals with outstanding warrants, including those wanted for violent or serious crimes. Deputies assigned to this unit work closely with local, state, and federal agencies to locate and remove highrisk individuals from the community. Their intelligence-led approach
enhances officer safety and reduces threats to the public. Strengthening this unit increases the ability of the office to act swiftly and reduce community risk.
The Motorcycle Unit provides high-visibility patrol and supports special events, escorts, and rapid-response needs. These deputies are highly trained in defensive maneuvering, motorcade coordination, and public engagement. They serve as a symbol of both tradition and agility, often participating in community outreach events and ceremonial functions.
The K-9 Unit is currently undergoing a strategic expansion to meet increasing operational demands.
The unit now includes five certified K-9s, two of which are special K-9 deputies from the Chester County Prison, with more dogs expected to join in the near future. These teams play a vital role in narcotics detection, suspect tracking, evidence recovery, and public demonstrations. In addition to supporting investigations, the K-9 Unit strengthens community outreach by bridging the gap between public safety enforcement and education.
The field force operations unit is designed to manage large-scale events and incidents involving crowd control or civil unrest. The team includes three certified instructors and is in
the process of ensuring all deputies receive Field Force Operations training. The unit emphasizes de-escalation, mobility, and public order management in rapidly evolving situations—enhancing the office’s readiness and effectiveness in protecting people and property.
The Protective Intelligence Unit focuses on identifying, assessing, and managing threats to public officials, government buildings, and high-risk environments.
Leveraging both proactive intelligence gathering and interagency collaboration, this unit monitors behaviors of concern and potential security risks. The goal is early inter-
vention and continuous threat mitigation. The unit’s integration into daily operations reflects the office’s commitment to prevention, preparedness, and safety.
Together, these specialized teams provide a comprehensive, adaptable response capability that complements the Sheriff’s Office’s mission to serve the public with integrity and professionalism.
“These units are a reflection of our office’s investment in modern, highly skilled law enforcement,” said Dykes. “From high-risk warrants to community events, they ensure we are prepared, trained, and equipped to keep Chester County safe.”
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Instructor Jenny Sassaman with student Nathan Rhoades in the TCHS Engine Technology Program workshop.
A Night with Chris Herren offered a message of hope, resilience, and inspiration for the community.
