Kennett Square man charged with murder during attempted car theft in Borough
By Richard L. Gaw Staff Writer
Victim was a 69-year-old Borough resident
old of Kennett Square, who is currently in Chester County Prison without bail, as he faces First Degree Murder and related charges. At press time, Rivera is refusing to issue a statement to authorities. At approximately 8:15 p.m., the Kennett Township Police Department responded to a significant call for service on Crestline Drive located near the Church
of the Advent on North Union Street, indicating that Rivera had attempted to steal a BMW from the driveway of the victim, who lived in the home and owned the car. After arguing with Rivera, the victim was chased by Rivera up his driveway and was stabbed by Rivera in the torso and the neck, killing him.
The victim has not yet been identified by authorities.
After stabbing the victim, Rivera fled the scene on foot and attempted to steal two cars on North Union Street. He eventually stole a vehicle but soon after he began driving, he struck a gray Honda Accord. When the driver of the Accord exited the car to exchange information, Rivera stole the Accord.
As police continued to locate Rivera, he was iden-
was arrested and taken into custody during the early-morning hours of Aug. 11 for allegedly stabbing a 69-year-old man to death during an attempted car theft incident that
tified later that evening as driving another stolen car occurred at approximately 8:15 p.m. on Aug.
meeting with PECO
Gamble: ‘We have the same goals – which is safety and reliability –but the question is whether reliability is to be achieved’
By Richard L. Gaw Staff Writer
by Kennett Township Supervisor Geoffrey
Gamble during an early July meeting may have been somewhat tempered following a meeting he and township Manager Alison
Dobbins had with PECO officials on July 30.
The swords, however, are still swirling in the air, as the township’s fight to provide its residents with more reliable power has not
Penn Township celebrates its new outdoor theater
By Chris Barber Contributing Writer
If people in Heaven look down proudly on their legacies, then Lawrence Waltman was doing it on Sunday.
Waltman, who died at age 100 in 2018, owned and operated Sunset Park in Jennersville. This is the location where many country and western musicians came and got their start in
the music business in the 20th century.
People routinely stopped by for lunch to socialize, enjoy the music and meet future musicians of note.
Longtime residents remember it with sentimentality.
On Sunday, the Penn Township Board of Supervisors invited the public to follow the Waltman tradition and stop by Sunset Park for food, a car show, fire trucks, children’s rides
and musical entertainment.
This time they had a special addition: Cutting the ribbon on a new outdoor theater.
This structure is wood with a pointed roof. It is equipped with electricity and space in the rear for preparations.
True to its past, the theater hosted country music for its Sunday afternoon party. On hand as well
‘This is taxation without transportation’ County Dems blast GOPcontrolled Pa. Senate for no action on transportation bill
By Richard L. Gaw Staff Writer
The irony, and perhaps its placement, was nearly as intentional as it was palpable.
As SEPTA buses continued to exit the West Chester Transit Center on West Market Street on Aug. 7, a contingent of Pa. House Democratic representatives from Chester County gathered nearby to attack Republicans in the State Senate for their inaction on H.B. 1364, a transit finding plan that pledges to bolster public transportation and make repairs to bridges and roads throughout the Commonwealth.
The act, which received 107 “Yes” votes and 96 “No” votes in a June 17 vote on the State House floor, provides for public transportation trust fund transfers and increases; establishes the Road and Bridge Project Fund and the Road and Bridge Project
at an Aug. 7
wavered in its commitment.
The context of that meeting, which was discussed at the board’s July 6 meeting, connected Gamble and Dobbins with PECO’s external affairs
manager, their engineering and design manager; their senior programming manager for vegetation management; their reliability engineer for Chester
Photo
sculptor
Courtesy photo Kennett Square Borough resident Javier Rivera
Photo by Richard L. Gaw Pennsylvania State Rep. Christina Sappey was one of the speakers
press conference in West Chester, where Democratic lawmakers from Chester County criticized the Republican-controlled State Senate for not acting on a transportation bill that, if passed, would provide funding for transportation services like SEPTA.
Photo by Chris Barber Township supervisors cut the ribbon on the new Penn Township outdoor theater. Continued on Page 2A
Theater...
Continued from Page 1A
was an entertainer who was equipped to produce gigantic, airborne bubbles. He had an enthusiastic young audience.
The field was also filled with vintage cars, and visitors were invited to cast their votes for their favorites.
Nearby were stands for food and beer and, above, the sky was clear.
The original Sunset Park of old could brag on inviting country singers who later became famous. The Waltmans brought icons like Loretta Lynn, Conway Twitty, Hank Williams, Dolly Parton, Johnny Cash, Bill Monroe, and the Stanley Brothers, among others, to the area. Waltman was proud of this heritage.
The new theater is well-equipped with power and storage areas.
Waltman also contributed to his community in a big way, serving on the school board and as a township supervisor. Country music players performed at the new Penn Township theater on Sunday.
Chester County government steps up in support of Chester County Food Bank needs
In response to critical funding shortfalls caused by significant federal budget cuts, Chester County Commissioners Josh Maxwell, Marian Moskowitz, and Eric Roe have accelerated the release of county-directed support for the Chester County Food Bank.
A $75,000 grant—the remaining portion of the Food Bank’s allocation from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA)—has been disbursed early to help address the organization’s immediate supply needs.
“Despite the significant funding setbacks experienced by the Chester County Food Bank, the board members, staff and volunteers there have shown tremendous determination to keep food and other essential supplies flowing for those who truly need them,” said
Commissioners Maxwell, Moskowitz and Roe in a statement. “Ours is a community that rises to the occasion when there are emergency needs, and we will always look at ways to be part of the emergency response; in this case, a response to fund emergency food support.”
In addition to the expedited grant, Chester County Government employees have stepped up with a month-long drive to donate funds, food and other needed goods.
Chester County Chief Executive Officer David Byerman said, “Public service is more than a job, it’s a calling. Chester County Steps Up is our way of celebrating that calling: showcasing how our employees lead with heart, give back with purpose, and step up when it matters most.”
Springton Manor Farm field crops are grown for the Chester County Food Bank.
Chester County Government’s ongoing partnership with the county’s Food Bank network includes donating fresh produce cultivated in raised beds at the Chester County Prison Work Release Center and the Chester County Youth Center. Through the Trellis for Tomorrow program, over 6,300 pounds
of organic produce were grown in 2024 alone, and since the program began at both the Work Release Center in 2014, and the Youth Center in 2013, more than 45,000 pounds of produce have been harvested.
Additionally, thanks to the Commissioners’ allocation of land at Springton Manor Farm, the Chester
Murder...
Continued from Page 1A
toward West Chester and was confronted by two residents after he broke into a home on South New Street. Using advanced search technology, the Kennett Township Police were able to identify the whereabouts of the solen car Rivera was driving from West Chester – identified as a Honda CRV - toward his Kennett Square Borough residence on Las Rosas Drive. He was then arrested by authorities at 1:36 a.m. on the morning of Aug. 11.
Rivera was wearing the same clothes as was reported by witnesses to the murder of the Crestline Drive resident and had a laceration on his right palm and a reddish-brown substance – consistent with dried blood – on his shoes and shirt. Kennett Township Police are currently conducting processes to determine DNA comparisons between the blood of the deceased and the alleged murderer, which were found on the suspect’s clothing.
According to an account given to the Chester County Press by Kennett Township Police Chief Matthew Gordon, the incident was first investigated by Corporal Amanda Wenrich and Police Officers David Ford and Colin Vannicolo. When they arrived a short distance from the scene, they saw a burgundy Chevy Equinox in the middle of the road, and a person walking away from the vehicle.
“Officer Vannicolo thought it may have been a subcontract delivery person delivering a package, but he had a call to respond to, which was for an act of a car theft in progress. When he got the call, he found out that there was a deceased person at that scene.
“We have Rivera leaving the street through cameras near the Church of the Advent. He then started walking on driveways along North Union Street and trying to jiggle car doors and see what was open.”
Gordon gave credit for the assistance his department received from officers belonging to the Kennett Square Borough Police, the Southern Chester County Regional Police, as well as one dozen troopers from the Pennsylvania State Police Avondale and representatives from the Chester County Detectives.
The investigation is being led by the Chester County Detectives. If anyone has information about the investigation, they are asked to contact the Chester County Detectives at (610) 344-6866.
To contact Staff Writer Richard L. Gaw, email rgaw@chestercounty.com.
County Food Bank grows produce year-round in a 36-foot greenhouse and an 80-foot high tunnel (hoop house). Seasonal vegetables are also cultivated in a field spanning nearly one acre.
“The Chester County Commissioners have been steadfast in their commitment to ensuring a food secure Chester County. We truly couldn’t accomplish our mission without the support of the county and our community,” said Andrea Youndt CEO of Chester County Food Bank.
Photos by Chris Barber
Chester County’s
County Commissioner Josh Maxwell and administrative assistant Beth Angiulo harvesting onions for the Chester County Food Bank.
Courtesy photos
Harvesting carrots for the Chester County Food Bank at the Springton Manor Farm.
Chester County Commissioner Marian Moskowitz volunteering at the Chester County Food Bank with Nick Imbesi of the Chester County Food Bank.
Chester County Commissioner Eric Roe volunteering at the Chester County Food Bank.
County; and their reliability engineer for Delaware County.
“Kennett Township now has their [PECO’s] attention,” Dobbins said. “I feel like it was a productive meeting, where we were able to raise strong concerns. We asked a lot of questions, and we certainly continued to make clear the depth of frustration felt by this community.”
Dobbins said that PECO provided she and Gamble with updates about projects being done on five different circuits in the township, one-third the total number of circuits that provide power to the municipality.
“PECO did acknowledge that 2024 was a hard year for Chester County, in terms of levels of storm damage and outages, and as a whole, they are addressing Chester County specifically, where they are looking at more vegetation work, in addition to the four-year [vegetation] schedule they are on,” Dobbins said.
The meeting stemmed from the comments Gamble delivered at the end of a July 2 board meeting, when he eviscerated PECO for its lack of reliable service to Kennett Township and called the energy provider “masters of obfuscation,” which was reported in the July 9 edition of the Chester County Press Gamble requested full transparency in how PECO operates its grid in the township and in surrounding municipalities; asked for the appointment of a
PECO representative to provide regular updates at public meetings; called on township solicitor David O. Sander to explore the possibility of initiating a class action lawsuit on behalf of the township and perhaps surrounding municipalities to subpoena key PECO leaders; and asked the township to initiate a formal complaint to the Pennsylvania Public Utilities Commission (PUC) about PECO’s inadequate service and encourage the PUC to explore the idea of licensing alternative electric companies to provide service to the township and surrounding communities.
Holding PECO accountable
“The best strategy in the short term is for us to give PECO a chance to demonstrate that they are going to be responsive to our needs,” Dobbins said. “We will continue to be in consistent contact with PECO, pressing for results.”
Dobbins said the township will also begin to “empower” its residents by adding PECO information to its website and recommended that residents continue to contact PECO in the event of a power outage. She encouraged township residents to reach out to the township if they are continuing to experience power outages – especially those not related to weather events.
Quoting the English philosopher G.K. Chesterton, Gamble said, “The pure and simple truth is rarely
pure and never simple, and this is certainly true with respect to our issues with PECO.”
He called the July 30 meeting “enlightening and instructional” and confirmed that the PECO officials they met with are actively trying to correct the energy deficiencies experienced in the township and throughout southern Chester County.
“We have the same goals – which is safety and reliability – but the question is whether reliability is to be achieved,” he said.
“Before we proceed as a township with any formal complaint to the PUC, I do believe it’s only fair to set a data-driven performance baseline that gives [PECO] a chance to improve.
“What we need is for PECO to stop going through the motions and take the kind of action that produces performance results.”
In other township business
American Mushroom Institute President Rachel Roberts brought the supervisors up to date on initiatives being undertaken by the mushroom growing industry to combat air quality concerns and the Phorid Fly, two consistent presences that have frustrated many residents throughout southern Chester County over the past several years.
One initiative being explored is nanobubble technology, which addresses climate change, environmental challenges,
cost and energy reduction in industrial processes, and optimization of therapeutic and diagnostic techniques in many agricultural sectors, including the mushroom industry, with special focus on wastewater treatment.
To date, this technology has not been implemented on local mushroom farms, but Roberts said that she was “cautiously optimistic” about the initiative, which has received funding over the past year and will continue to seek matching grants.
“Nanobubble technology focuses on composting and not only helps improve lagoon waters but also can improve the entire composting process overall,” she said.
The industry has also been exploring the future use of carbon activated tarps, a pilot study that has been in place since last year, which if used on mushroom farms, would mitigate nuisance odors emanating from these operations.
Regarding the mitigation of the Phorid Fly – which are drawn to mushroom farms to lay their larvae and subsequently travel to nearby residential areas – is underway through a Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture quarantine enacted on facilities in Chester County to apply a “steaming off” process, the funding of which is being allocated by the Conservation District of Chester County.
In addition, Roberts said that over the past few months, the industry has been exploring the idea of
making insecticide netting available to mushroom farms. She said that the EPA has recently temporarily approved the product, which “will go along the cracks and crevices of a mushroom houses, but also over the mushroom beds, so now these Phorids that love to breed inside the house won’t have a way to get in and out of [mushroom houses] without coming into contact with this screen.”
The board voted to adopt Resolution 2025-13, approving the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Kennett Consolidated School District. The MOU, which will be enacted through 2027, establishes clear guidelines and cooperative procedures between the school district and law enforcement regarding school safety and security, incident response and investigations, and the sharing of information between the school district and the township.
The board also authorized
Dobbins to sign the contract with Carroll Engineering Corporation to perform the survey and design services for the Five Points Intersection Improvement Project, in the amount of $105,000. The firm will design roadway and traffic signal upgrades for the five-legged signalized intersection of South Union Street, Hillendale Road and Old Kennett Road.
The agency will complete a topographical study of the intersection; determine the extent of the ground leveling needed; provide the township with right-ofway impacts; and design turn-lanes, signal phasing and signal timings splits.
Following approvals of these projects, Carroll Engineering will prepare design plans for submission to PennDOT in order to obtain a traffic signal permit and a highway occupancy permit.
To contact Staff Writer Richard L. Gaw, email rgaw@chestercounty.com.
Sinking Fund; authorizes the Commonwealth Financing Authority to issue bonds for road and bridge projects; provides for allocation adjustment; establishes the Transportation Funding Advisory Commission; and imposes duties on the Department of Transportation.
The bill closely aligns with a provision in Gov. Josh Shapiro’s budget plan for 2025-2026 that allocates an additional percentage of sales tax revenue to the Public Transportation Trust Fund from 4.4 percent to 6.15 percent, which if passed through the Republican-controlled Senate would result in an increase of $292.5 million in funding next year and $1.5 billion over the next five years – a huge investment in the future of transportation services like SEPTA.
The deadline for the vote is Aug. 24.
‘17 days from catastrophic cuts to the lifeblood of our local economy’
Local News
million deficit.
“If the GOP State Senate continues to neglect this issue, regionally, we will face billions in lost property values, tens of thousands of lost jobs, in addition to an annual tax revenue loss of $674 million,” Pielli said.
to work in rural areas of Pennsylvania. This means folks with disabilities and senior citizens are not getting to their doctor. This impacts every single one of us in Pennsylvania, no matter where you live – urban, suburban or rural.
“The GOP-controlled State Senate has fled Harrisburg, but I’m here to say that our state senators in the Democratic caucus are ready to vote on SEPTA funding today.”
As every speaker at the conference echoed, the potential windfall of a non-Republican vote on H.B. 1364 will result in SEPTA – which serves the Philadelphia metro area with trolleys, buses, subways and regional rail trains – being forced to reduce service on more than 100 lines across its system and the eventual loss of the county’s Route 104 and Route 92 bus service, in order to make up for a $213
“We’re here to remind everyone that time is up for all Pennylvanians’ public transportation throughout the entire 67 counties in our Commonwealth and right here in Chester County,” said State Rep. Chris Pielli, who organized the press conference. “As we speak, we stand 17 days from catastrophic cuts to the lifeblood of our local economy, due to a lack of action from the Republican-controlled Senate, who remains missing in action to this day. This will affect not just the hundreds of thousands of SEPTA riders, not just the entire Philadelphia region, but the entire commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
“Just saying ‘No” and doing nothing is not a responsible way to govern. Just saying “No” to the thousands who rely on paratransit, the students who need to get to school, the workers who need to get to work and don’t have cars and the sick who need to get medical care – that’s not governing.”
Pielli said that this inaction on behalf of the GOP-led State Senate has become a crisis they have manufactured, and he encouraged Pennsylvanians to urge their Republican Senators to pass H.B. 1364.
“This is not only an outrage. This is taxation without transportation and we will not stand for it anymore,” he said.
State Rep. Christina Sappey of the 158th District said that she is calling on the state’s Republican leadership “to get off the golf course and get back to work” to pass the legislation.
“We’ve heard in the [Pennsylvania] Senate that mass transit doesn’t impact rural areas or their districts, but as somebody who represents a largely suburban-rural area, I can tell you it does,” said. “Our parents in Chester County need to understand that when their students commute to Temple, Penn and Drexel using SEPTA, we’re looking at a 40 to 45 percent reduction in services starting in just a few weeks. If we don’t fund it, we’re looking at the elimination of services as of January 1.
“This means goals and accomplishments delayed for our kids. This means workers are not getting
The Sky and Beyond at Kennett Library
Kennett Library will host their next artist reception and talk at 5 p.m. on Thursday, Aug. 21 with the collection, The Sky and Beyond, which will feature artists David Katz, a Chester County artist, and Max Magendantz, who works on the Kennett Library staff.
“Works featured in The Sky and Beyond invite us to dream of lofty clouds and interstellar beauty,” said Lou Florence of the Kennett Library. “Artists David Katz and Max Magendantz share their unique responses to these celestial wonders at Kennett Library Art Gallery for the month of August.”
Magendantz is the director of technical services at Kennett Library. He began experimenting with astrophotography, photography of astronomical objects, celestial events, or areas of the night sky, at the beginning of last year.
Katz, The Sky Painter, moved to Chester County shortly before graduating from the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts in 2012. Chester County presented a new opportunity to explore and grow as an artist. He is the owner of David Katz Gallery located in Marshalton, Pa.
“This is a shared priority,” Sappey added. “Listen to what we’re saying and understand what’s at stake, because once it is gone, it will not come back.
[Not passing H.B. 1364] will cripple [southeastern Pennsylvania] and cripple our state’s economy.”
As SEPTA buses hissed on their departure from the transit center, Chester County Commissioner Marian Moskowtiz called public transportation “the great equalizer,” one that drives the economy, protects the environment and strengthens communities.
“This is more about people at this moment,” she said. “In Chester County, SEPA is a lifeline. It connects our rural areas to jobs in King of Prussia and Philadelphia. It gets our seniors to their doctors. It gives our students a path to college and our workers a path to stability.
“This isn’t about transit. It’s about dignity, about opportunity, about whether we will invest in a Pennsylvania that works for everyone, not just those who can afford a car or live near a train station.”
‘Minimum system performance criteria’
While the sentiment to pass H.B. 1364 gains ground
in House Democratic circles, Pennsylvania Senate Republicans say they are reluctant to commit to the proposed funding, stating that transit systems in the Commonwealth first need to prove their efficiency first before receiving any money. Recently, legislation proposed by State Sen. Joe Picozzi (R-Philadelphia) would if passed require SEPTA to release biennial performance reports detailing its progress toward financial stability and its use of state funding. It would also ask the State to set “minimum system performance criteria” that will be directed at addressing fare evasion, enhancing public-private partnerships and optimizing bus routes.
The legislation also proposes that if SEPTA does not achieve these benchmarks, it would be placed under a state-mandated improvement plan.
“I believe that not only does our mass transit system need to be sustained – but it also needs to be re-imagined so that it is financially viable far into the future,” Picozzi wrote in a June 4 memo. “SEPTA can be better, and should be better, than it is now.
This vision for the future of mass transit is multifaceted, utilizing public
private partnerships, known as P3’s, requiring efficient rail time coordination with Amtrak and regional rail, reviewing outdated bus routes and adjusting to better align with current ridership trends, and providing for creative advertising and naming rights on mass transit.
“My proposal will meet these goals by setting metrics and timelines for SEPTA to meet necessary benchmarks and do the hard work of re-imagining what its services look like, making them better for everyone who utilizes the services.
“Additionally, it is imperative for the future health of SEPTA to create greater transparency, accountability and oversight so that the fiscal health of SEPTA is never in doubt. This goal can be achieved through increased oversight of SEPTA through state fiscal oversight measures.”
Other speakers at the Aug. 7 press conference included State Reps. Katie Muth, Paul Friel, Kristine Howard, Danielle Friel Otten, Melissa Shusterman, Dan Williams and West Chester University Vice President Dr. Zebulun Davenport.
To contact Staff Writer Richard L. Gaw, email rgaw@chestercounty.com
A banner held at the press conference.
Photos by Richard L. Gaw
State Rep. Katie Muth of District 44, which includes parts of Chester, Berks and Montgomery counties.
State Rep. Chris Pielli of the 156th District, which includes Birmingham, East Goshen, Thornbury, West Goshen and Westtown townships, and West Chester.
Courtesy image
Mushroom Festival celebrates 40 years!
The Mushroom Festival is now just weeks away and this year’s event promises to be special.
This is the 40th year for Kennett Square’s signature event, and organizers are planning the best festival yet.
The festivities get underway at 6 p.m. on Thursday, September 4 with a parade through the streets of Kennett Square to celebrate Chester County’s top crop. Then, on Saturday, Sept. 6, the two-day festival begins with a wide variety of activities and attractions. There will be plenty of fun—the streets will be filled with more than 200 vendors, and there will be live music and entertainment, cooking demonstrations, mushroom-growing demonstrations, expanded children’s activities, and even a car show. The festival runs from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday, with special evening events also planned, and from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 7.
This year’s festival theme is “Harvesting 40 Years Together!” which is a nod to the big anniversary— and to all the collaboration that has made this event so important to the mushroom industry—and to the Kennett Square community.
Mushrooms are the number-one cash crop in Pennsylvania, and the mushroom industry continues to be incredibly important to the local economy. The first cultivated mushrooms grown in the United States were grown right in Kennett Square. Mushroom production in the Kennett Square area increased to the point where over half of the mushrooms grown in the entire United States come from the Kennett Square region. That’s why Kennett Square is the Mushroom Capital of the World—and why it is home to one of the finest food festivals in the country.
The mushroom industry will continue to have a big impact on the Kennett Square area and beyond. One way that the Mushroom Festival makes a difference in the community is through grants to numerous local non-profit organizations. Each year, the Mushroom Festival will use proceeds from the event to allocate thousands of dollars to worthy organizations. During its history, the Mushroom Festival has raised and distributed more than $1 million to local nonprofits.
We congratulate all of the organizers, sponsors, vendors, and volunteers who have played a part in supporting the Mushroom Festival over its first 40 years. They have helped to make the Kennett Square Mushroom Festival one of the best food festivals in the entire country. We’re hoping for lots of sunshine on the weekend of the festival, and we also hope that this year’s Mushroom Festival is the best one yet.
An information booth will be set up during the festival for visitors to get information about all the offerings. Full details about the festival can be found in the Mushroom Festival Guide that the Chester County Press is publishing for the event on August 27. You can also visit www.mushroomfestival.org or the event’s social media pages for more information and an updated list of attractions and activities.
Chester County Press
Published by - The Lieberman Family
Steve Hoffman...............................Managing Editor
Richard L. Gaw...............................Associate Editor
Chris Barber.............................Contributing Writer
Alan E. Turns...........................Advertising Director
Teri Turns...............................Advertising Executive
Helen E. Warren....................Advertising Executive
Gabbie Burton.........................Contributing Writer, ....................Digital Marketing and Media Specialist
Kids with autism deserve care, not cuts
By Kali Daugherty
I recently read over my son’s last report card and was overwhelmed with pride.
Author's son has flourished with autism therapies made available by Medicaid, which millions of families are now at risk of losing son began this program, he had a hard time sitting still, struggled with completing even small tasks, and rarely interacted meaningfully with others. The world often overwhelmed him, and those feelings showed up as frustration or withdrawal.
It showed how far he’s come — progress that, not long ago, felt out of reach. I made mental notes of the areas where we still need to do some work, but mostly I just sat with the joy of seeing comments like “participates well in class” and “a pleasure to have in class.”
A few years ago, those kinds of remarks seemed impossible.
My son is on the autism spectrum. He’s bright, curious, and kind, but he faces challenges in areas that come more naturally to his peers — things like socializing, staying focused, and following multi-step directions.
To support his growth, our family relies on services made accessible through Medicaid. Without it, we couldn’t afford the therapies and supports that have made such a profound difference in his life.
One of the most transformative resources we’ve accessed through Medicaid is applied behavior analysis (ABA) therapy. Before my
Our family was doing everything we could to support him, but we needed help. Medicaid made that possible.
The ABA therapy was intensive and, at times, exhausting — but it worked. Over time, we watched our son develop new skills, regulate his emotions, and engage with the world in a completely new way.
By the time the program ended, we had a different child. Not in that he changed who he was — but because he could finally show the world the amazing person he had always been. He could carry on a conversation, initiate play with peers, connect with adults, and begin building friendships.
Today, thanks to Medicaid, he continues to receive occupational therapy and speech therapy at school. These services help him strengthen motor skills, improve communication, and better navigate daily life. He also
receives support through his Individualized Education Plan (IEP), ensuring he has the accommodations he needs to succeed. Because of this, my son is not just surviving — he is thriving.
But now, all of this is under threat.
Millions of families like mine could lose Medicaid because the Trump-GOP budget — the so-called “Big Beautiful Bill” — strips away the very support that children like my son depend on, all to finance tax breaks for corporations and the wealthy. It’s hard to describe the fear that takes hold when you realize that your child’s future has been jeopardized with the stroke of a pen.
Some 37 million children — roughly half of kids in the United States — rely on Medicaid for health care, therapies, and other essential services. For kids with disabilities, Medicaid is often the only option for accessing the support they need. Without it, families face impossible choices — foregoing therapies, draining savings, or going without care altogether.
What’s even more heartbreaking is the callousness with which some elected officials treat this issue.
Got milk?
Watching Republican Senators dance to a disco song as they celebrated the passage of this harmful bill made me physically ill. While they partied, families across the country worried about how to care for their children, afford therapy, or keep a roof over their heads. This isn’t political for me — it’s personal. My child is not a budget line item. He is a human being who deserves the chance to live a full and meaningful life. Every child does.
Medicaid has been a lifeline for us, and it should be protected, not gutted. No parent should have to fight this hard for basic support, and no child should have their future jeopardized by politics.
The promise of America is an opportunity for all. That promise cannot be fulfilled if we dismantle the very systems that allow families like mine to survive — let alone thrive — simply to cut taxes for the wealthy.
Kali Daugherty serves on the Parent Advisory Board of the Automatic Benefits for Children Coalition and is a RESULTS Expert on Poverty. This op-ed was distributed by OtherWords.org.
You'd better hope so.
By Dr. Matthew Drake
Dairy milk is making a comeback – and not a moment too soon for America’s bone health.
For years, calcium intake has declined, even as boneweakening lifestyle factors have surged. Americans are spending more time indoors, sitting at desks, getting less vitamin D, and doing fewer weight-bearing activities. All of this contributes to an overlooked but growing crisis: our bones are becoming weaker, at an earlier age, and in greater numbers than most people realize.
As Chief of Endocrinology and Metabolic Bone Disease Services at the Hospital for Special Surgery, I see this firsthand. One of the biggest misconceptions patients have is that bone loss is unavoidable with aging – something to worry about only later in life, if at all. But bone health is a lifelong investment, and Americans are dangerously underinvesting.
We aren’t getting nearly enough calcium, and the con-
sequences of that deficiency are showing up sooner and more severely than expected. It’s time for patients and providers to prioritize bone health through better education, daily habits, and preventive activity long before suffering a fracture.
Think of your skeleton as a cement foundation. Most of the structure you’ll rely on as an adult is built during adolescence when the body is rapidly laying down bone.
Calcium is the primary mineral in that foundation – essential for building and maintaining strong, healthy bones. That’s why children and teenagers need substantial amounts to develop peak bone mass.
But even after the growth phase ends, bones still need care. Adults must continue supporting their skeletal health with steady calcium intake, adequate vitamin D, and regular physical activity. Fall short, and your body will draw calcium from your skeleton. If you’re not getting enough of the mineral, or don’t have enough vitamin D to help absorb the
amount you take in, your bones become the backup supply to maintain normal blood levels.
That silent sacrifice can lead to osteoporosis, a progressive disease that leaves bones fragile and more prone to break from minor falls or everyday activities.
Osteoporosis affects at least 10 million Americans, and almost 45 million others are at increased risk for fracture due to low bone density.
Over half of U.S. adults aged 50 and older are vulnerable to potentially devastating fractures.
The economic burden is just as sobering. Osteoporosisrelated fractures cost the U.S. healthcare system tens of billions annually.
We can’t treat our way out of this. There’s already a critical shortage of specialists who manage bone health and osteoporosis specifically. We need to prevent it, starting with patient education and a renewed focus on calcium – and vitamin D.
That begins at the table. Calcium from dairy products like milk, yogurt, and
cheese is among the most easily absorbed. For those who are lactose intolerant or dairy-free, calcium-fortified beverages and supplements can help fill the gap – but they need to be taken correctly.
We also need to rethink physical activity. Our bones respond to gravity and ground impact -- meaning walking, running, or strength training are far better for our skeletons than swimming or cycling. “Use it or lose it” isn’t a cliché – it’s biology. The recent uptick in milk consumption is a welcome trend. But the bigger opportunity is cultural: to start thinking about bone health the way we think about heart or brain health -- as something worth preserving every day. We only get one skeleton. Let’s treat it like the vital organ system it is.
Matthew T. Drake, MD, Ph.D, is the Chief of Endocrinology at Hospital for Special Surgery. This piece originally ran in RealClearScience.
Third Juvenile Justice bill passes House
State Rep. Melissa Shusterman, (D-Chester), announced that her third juvenile justice piece of legislation, H.B. 1573, has passed the State House of Representatives. House Bill 1573 provides for a variety clarifications and revisions regarding the Commonwealth’s juvenile detention system. These improvements include establishment of a data
inventory. The Pennsylvania Juvenile Justice Task Force was formed in 2019 and after 28 roundtables with nearly 450 participants, a final report was issued in 2021. The task force was charged with delivering data-driven policy recommendations that met four goals: protecting public safety, ensuring accountability, achieving taxpayer
savings and sustained system reinvestment, and improving outcomes for youth, families and communities. The Task Force made a total of 35 recommendations for the legislature to act upon that would protect children in the state.
Shusterman’s three juvenile justice bills will make improvements to the Commonwealth’s juvenile
detention system. The other two bills were passed by the House last week. House Bill 1576 will require the Department of Human Services to reimburse counties for 50 percent of certain costs of services provided to delinquent children, including but not limited to, medical treatments, transportation and the appointment of a guardian ad litem or counsel – also
known as indigent defense.
House Bill 1577 will ensure that safe and humane institutional practices are in place for children who may face restrictive procedures, such as restraints, when in custody or incarcerated.
“The task force was a thorough process with an outcome of policy recommendations the legislature has been slow to address,” said Shusterman. “We
‘Robot Sculptor’ headlines Brandywine Festival of the Arts
Popular weekend event returns to Wilmington on Sept. 6 and 7
Brian Marshall, a middle school teacher by day and a self-described “mad scientist” by night, has been named the featured artist for the 2025 Brandywine Festival of the Arts, which will bring more than 240 crafters and artisans to Wilmington’s Brandywine Park on September 6 and 7.
“I fabricate robots, fish and more from vintage items like a modern-day Dr. Frankenstein of junk,” Marshall said.
Inspired as a child by garage sale excursions with his mom and tinkering in his own garage with his dad, he did some of his first work with clocks, lamps, and furniture.
An early revelation was the impetus for the amazingly creative path he would take.
“I flipped over a teapot one day and imagined the spout as a nose and the lid as mouth,” he said, explain-
ing the start of an obsession that eventually led to the Adopt-A-Bot orphanage.
Through the years, Marshall has discovered vintage items while digging through piles at flea markets, yard sales, and the metal recycler, finding the search is as much fun as the creation of his little friends.
Once collected, organized, and carefully selected, the objects are combined like the parts of a puzzle using only bolts and rivets to secure them. Made from various materials, many pieces cannot be combined with welding or brazing, but even when they can, he likes the challenge of finding ways to bolt them together.
Bolting rather than welding also creates an impression that these figures could at any moment come to life and begin moving. Before the final assembly, Marshall may
scuff or polish parts, leave them in their natural state or even give them a patina, depending on the look he wants to achieve. Once a piece is finished, it receives a hand-stamped tag to identify it as a member of the Adopt-A-Bot orphanage.
“My robot sculptures do not take a critical look at social, political, or cultural issues. I simply love the adventure of finding and collecting new objects and the problem solving involved in assembling those parts to create unique personalities,” Marshall said. “My enjoyment continues as smiles emerge on the faces of children and adults when they challenge each other to name the various parts that they recognize from their youth.
“To that end, I try not to render objects unrecognizable but rather assemble in a fashion that allows others to enjoy the original engi-
neering and artistry of the parts that inspire me. If I do have a message or a wish, it would be for people to think outside the box and find new ways to use old things.”
As the featured artist, Marshall and his Robot Menagerie will have a prominent location for display and sale at the Brandywine Festival of the Arts, always the weekend after Labor Day, on Sept. 6 and 7 in Brandywine Park, across from the Brandywine Zoo.
In addition to painters, jewelers, potters, photographers, woodworkers and other artisans displaying and offering their works for sale, the festival features a food court, children’s activities and pet adoption opportunities.
Festival hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 6, and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 7. Admission
is $5, with children 12 and under accompanied by an adult admitted for free. The event is pet friendly. For more information,
Regional Police celebrates National Night Out in Avondale and West Grove
Before a steady stream of visitors and over 30 vendors, the Southern Chester County Regional Police continued a time-honored tradition on Aug. 5
Courtesy photo
Brian Marshall has been named the featured artist for the 2025 Brandywine Festival of the Arts, which will bring more than 240 crafters and artisans to Wilmington’s Brandywine Park on Sept. 6 and 7.
Southern Chester County Regional Police Department Officer Jose Alvarez greets community members in West Grove.
Photos by Richard L. Gaw
Members of West Grove Ladder 22 provided the community with tours of their fire vehicle.
Crystal Diaz cuddles with a rabbit at a traveling zoo exhibit sponsored by Bouncy Time Moonbounce Rentals in West Grove.
Old Glory flaps high above a fire truck from West Grove Ladder 22 in West Grove.
This National Night Out attendee was treated to face painting in front of Ruffini’s Barber Shop in West Grove.
One child languished in the bubbles at an exhibit in Avondale.
These two siblings received a chauffeur-driven ride to the National Night Out event in West Grove.
Avondale Mayor Susan Rzucidlo with Derek Watkins enjoy the Avondale event.
GRACE MOORE
Grace (McCaffery) Moore, age 43, of Avondale, passed away at her home on July 29, 2025. She was the wife of Allan Moore, with whom she shared 19 years of marriage.
Born on Jan. 4,1982 in Wilmington, Del., she was a daughter of Barbara (Brown) McCaffery and Michael McCaffery.
She graduated from Padua Academy in 2000 and went on to attend the University of Delaware, earning a bachelor’s degree in medical technology in 2004. She later attended Thomas Jefferson University in pursuit of a master’s degree.
Following graduation from UD, Grace began her career as a medical technologist at Crozer-Chester Medical Center. In 2006, she moved to the pharmaceutical industry working as a scientist for Quotient Sciences for 18 years. Grace spent the final year of her career working for W.L. Gore & Associates in the medical equipment division.
Grace and Allan met in the summer of 2001, while she was working as a runner in the law firm where his mother also worked. Although they quickly realized that they had very little in common, they were both intrigued enough to go on a few dates. Those few dates turned into 24 years together full of love, laughter, and happiness. They
married in 2006 and later welcomed two children, Cece and Jmo, who became the center of Grace’s world. Grace was a devoted mother – always there for music recitals, sporting events, and bedtime stories. She loved baking with both kids, drinking tea, and talking about books with Cece, and gardening with Jmo.
In her spare time, Grace enjoyed visiting Longwood Gardens in Kennett Square. It was a place that held special meaning as the place where Allan proposed. She passed on her love of the gardens to her children while they would pick out their favorite flowers during their regular visits. She also enjoyed reading, sipping wine paired with a variety of cheeses, drinking tea, eating all varieties of homemade pies, and watching horror movies. Most of all, she enjoyed spending time with her family and going on vacation with them, from a midwest road trip to see unique attractions to trips abroad, like visits to Ireland and the United Kingdom.
Grace will be remembered for her love of and devotion to family, her love of adventure and trying new things, being a self-proclaimed pie enthusiast, her resilience and perseverance as she bravely battled breast cancer twice, her compassion for others despite her struggles, and the grace with which she navigated her final months.
She will be deeply missed during the summer bonfires and s’mores, holiday traditions like Christmas cookie day and watching Christmas Vacation, Christmas lights at
Longwood, planning the next family adventure, and the laughter shared as the family reminisces about countless fun times.
Grace’s legacy lives on in the countless lives she touched – with her career, her compassion, and her unwavering dedication to the people she loved. Her influence remains – quiet but enduring, like the way she lived.
In addition to her parents and her husband, she is survived by her children, Cecelia and Jameson; her siblings, William McCloskey (Jessica) and Patty McCaffery; her in-laws, Nancy Moore and Jennifer Dalby (Tim); nieces and nephews, Miguel, Jordan, Abigail, Lacy, and Lexie; and a number of extended family and friends.
You are invited to visit with Grace’s family and friends from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. on Wednesday, August 13 at Loch Nairn Farm at 514 McCue Road in Avondale. Her life celebration service will follow at 11 a.m. Interment will be held privately.
In lieu of flowers, contributions in her memory may be made to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation www.bcrf.org or checks can be mailed to Breast Cancer Research Foundation, 28 West 44th Street, Suite 609, New York, N.Y. 10036.
Arrangements are being handled by Grieco Funeral Home & Crematory, Inc. of Kennett Square (484-734-8100).
To view Grace’s online obituary, please visit www. griecofunerals.com.
For more information or to place an ad, contact Brenda Butt at 610-869-5553 ext. 10
www.kuzoandfoulkfh.com
Dorothy M. Antes, of Oxford, passed away peacefully on August 6, 2025 at Chester County Hospital in West Chester. She was 90. She was the wife of the late Earl L. Antes, with whom she shared 55 years of marriage at the time of his passing in 2009. Born in Flint, Mich., she was the daughter of the late Milford and Euda Hawk Rodgers. Formerly of Brookhaven, Pa., Dorothy lived in Oxford for 48 years.
Ralph Albert Kuebler, a cherished papa, dad, brother, uncle, son, mentor, and best friend, spent his final days surrounded by family and friends, keeping his trademark kindness, positive outlook, and endless stories until the very end, exactly as he would have wanted. Born to German immigrants, Ernest and Thekla Kuebler, in Hackensack, N.J., he inherited from them a strong work ethic and a deep devotion to family.
Ralph’s childhood was filled with pranks, laughter, and the kind of mischief that likely explains why his mother’s hair was white by the age of 40. He graduated from Hackensack High School in 1964. Early jobs came in all shapes and sizes—newspaper routes, the Ford Motor and Nabisco factories, and even helping out with a woolly mammoth archeological dig.
After his first year at Temple University, Ralph voluntarily enlisted in the Air Force during the Vietnam War. He served with honor as a Morse Code operator with top-secret security clearance, spending 20 months in Okinawa, Japan, and 18 months in Turkey. His time in the service forged lasting friendships with his “service buddies,” and the stories they shared often had more to do with life outside the base than on it. Annual reunion trips gave them the perfect excuse to share stories from six decades past, with each retelling growing more vivid and grandiose than the one before.
After his military service, Ralph returned to school, earning his B.A. and M.B.A. from the University of Maryland. His career in banking began with American Security Bank in Washington, D.C., followed by Maryland National Bank and later MBNA, which led his family to move from Silver Spring, Md. to Hockessin, Del. He held a myriad of positions within the industry, with experience in branch automation and expansion, ATM networking, pilot programs for the first chip credit cards, affinity marketing, and executive leadership. He was most fond of the later years of his career as he developed and led the MBNA Education Foundation, overseeing teacher grants, college scholarships, and career development opportunities. Ralph was deeply committed to giving back to his community, dedicating much of his time and talent to fundraising endeavors like the MBNA Walk for Education, Juvenile Diabetes Foundation, and March of
Obituary submissions
The Chester County Press publishes obituaries for funeral homes and others with a connection to Southern Chester County for a modest fee. Obituaries appear on the Wednesday after they are received with a Monday 5pm deadline. They are also posted on wwww.chestercounty.com. Photos should be sent as .jpeg attachments to the obituary text. To submit an obituary to the Chester County Press, email the information to editor@ chestercounty.com.
DOROTHY M. ANTES
Dorothy enjoyed quilting, crocheting, jigsaw puzzles, gardening, feeding and watching the birds, and most of all, spending time with her family. She is survived by three children, Margie Stevenson (Jim) of Oxford, Mike Antes (Sherry) of Oxford, and Joan Dyson (John) of Quarryville, and son-in-law Harold Probst Jr., of Quarryville. Also surviving are nine grandchildren, Michelle Freund (Mark), James Stevenson III (Natalie), Jessica Kelleher (Ed), Matthew Stevenson (Holly), Ashley Antes, Kyle Antes, Kenny Dyson (Serena), Benjamin Dyson (Gia) and Katie Probst, and 11 great-grandchildren, Leah, Andrew,
RALPH A. KUEBLER
Dimes. An early retirement from MBNA in 2005 suited Ralph more than he expected, as he seamlessly transitioned from business executive to a deeper involvement in volunteer leadership roles in nonprofit arts and education initiatives. Though he often joked that the artistic talent in his family had skipped his generation, Ralph held an appreciation for the arts and proudly dedicated 28 years as a board member—most recently as Board President—of the Center for Creative Arts in Yorklyn, Del. He also served as a current board member for the Red Clay Education Foundation, chaired the Superstars in Education Selection Committee, and championed impactful programs like Principal for a Day.
His passion for equity in education led him to testify before the Congressional Subcommittee on Education Reform, where he emphasized the vital link between literacy and the workforce. Additionally, he served on advisory panels for the University of Delaware Academy for Nonprofit Leadership, Delaware Foundation for Science and Mathematics Education, and the Business/Education Partnership for the Delaware State Chamber of Commerce, served four years as a judge for the State of Delaware Higher Education Commission - Merit Scholarship Program, and a grant review panelist of the Delaware State Arts Councils.
An avid traveler throughout his life, Ralph visited more than 130 countries across six continents, journeyed through the provinces of Canada and all 50 states, and visited countless national parks. One of his most memorable adventures was a three-week trip through Alaska with his father in a Volkswagen camper. In retirement, he embraced the freedom to take extended vacations, experiencing the richness of other cultures and forming lasting friendships along the way.
Ralph’s most enduring legacy, though, was his infectious positivity and kindness. Whether in work or play, he embraced life with an unshakable glass-half-full attitude. His passions were vast: avid traveler, nature lover, gardener, carpenter, amateur cameraman, sports player, workaholic, self-proclaimed stock market guru, cat napper, professional procrastinator, babysitter, chauffeur, trusted confidant, night owl, pack rat, and longwinded storyteller. He was a man who saw the good in everyone and believed each individual had a unique personality to share. Ralph lived by his father’s philosophy: “Life would be boring if we were all the same.”
A true modern-day medical miracle — a cat with nine lives — Ralph defied the odds with an unbreakable will to live. At 47, he survived a quintuple bypass; at 70, he
Caelan, Nathan, Ryan, Danica, Amelia, Alice, London, Eden, and Judah. She was preceded in death by a daughter, Jean Probst, a grandson, Philip Probst, two brothers, Robert and Richard Casselman, and two sisters, Ruth Henry and Donna Donnelly. Funeral services were held on August 12 at Crossing Jordan Church in Quarryville with Pastor Blake Deibler officiating. Interment was in the Oxford Cemetery. Online condolences may be made at www.elcollinsfuneralhome.com.
faced and overcame cancer; and through the years, he weathered numerous additional health challenges. Throughout it all, his determination to recover never wavered, driven by his belief that he had “more life to live.” Above all, he was especially determined to meet and build lasting bonds with each of his six grandchildren.
Ralph was never short of advice, offering unsolicited wisdom at every turn: “Hard work pays off; Start saving early on; Take time to do things the right way; Read instructions first; Do your research; Save your receipts; Ask questions; Help others; Be kind; Introduce yourself; Address people by their name; Find the good in others; Pay compliments when they are due; Stand up for what you believe in; Take every opportunity life offers; Don’t sweat the small stuff.”
In his final days, as Ralph’s health quickly declined, his spirit remained unshaken. He carried with him the same humor, warmth, and positivity that had always defined him. Until the very end, he shared stories, cracked jokes, and offered his trademark advice. His smile never faded, and his mind remained sharp.
Ralph is survived by his two loving daughters, Karen (Latané) Meade and Susan (Jacob) Czerwin, who were his greatest source of pride. He leaves behind his heart’s delight — six precious grandchildren, Camden, Riley, Parker, Brinley, Cooper, and Olivia — each of whom brought him immeasurable joy. He is also survived by his adoring sister, Lynda (Thomas) Zaccone, and a host of nieces and nephews whom he proudly embraced as his bonus sons and daughters, as well as their children. His former wife and mother of his children, Marilynn, remained faithfully devoted to him until the very end. Ralph now joins in eternal rest with his beloved parents, Ernest and Thekla Kuebler, and his cherished older brother, Gordon Kuebler.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the nonprofits Ralph proudly served the longest: the Center for the Creative Arts (https://www.ccarts.org), the Red Clay Education Foundation, (https://www.redclayschools.com/about-red-clay/rcef) or an organization of your choice.
A Celebration of Life took place on August 7 at Deerfield Golf Club in Newark, Del. Arrangements are by Grieco Funeral Home & Crematory, Inc. (484) 734-8100 of Kennett Square.
To view Ralph’s online tribute and to share a memory with his 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 8/25/2025 at 10:00 AM.
Curtis Barger unit #58, Curtis Barger unit #59
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 September 17, 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 # 1271- Jennifer Opio
Unit # D117- Ashley Pullin, Unit # 1014-Ashley Pullin DEStorage.com Newgarden reserves the right to withdraw any storage unit from sale or cancel the sale without prior notice.
ESTATE NOTICE
Estate of James Bruce Holmgreen aka James B. Holmgreen aka James Holmgreen, Deceased late of the Borough of South Coatesville, Chester County, PA. Letters of Administration on the above estate have been granted to the undersigned. All persons having claims against or indebted to the estate should make claims known or forward payment to Susan S. Holmgreen and John R. Lundy, Esq., Administrators, c/o Lundy Beldecos & Milby, PC, 450 N. Narberth Ave., Suite 200, Narberth, PA 19072.
7p-30-3t
ESTATE NOTICE
ESTATE OF RICHARD J. WEAVER, DECEASED. Late of Oxford Borough, Chester County, PA
LETTERS of ADMINISTRATION on the above Estate have been granted to the undersigned, who request all persons having claims or demands against the estate of the decedent to make known the same and all persons
indebted to the decedent to make payment without delay to BARBARA WEAVER, ADMINISTRATRIX, 2109 Laurel Ln., Oxford, PA 19363, Or to her Attorney: DAVID E. SCHWAGER, 183 Market St., Ste. 100 Kingston, PA 18704-5444
7p-30-3t
ADVERTISEMENT FOR GRANT OF LETTERS
ESTATE OF Albert Loveland, deceased. LATE OF Upper Oxford Township, Chester County LETTERS of ADMINISTRATION on the above Estate have been granted to the undersigned, who request all persons having claims or demands against the estate of the decedent to make known the same and all persons indebted to the decedent to make payment without delay to Executor: Andrea Loveland c/o Attorney: Ira D. Binder, 227 Cullen Rd, Oxford, PA 19363
7p-30-3t
ESTATE NOTICE
ESTATE OF Walter Ray Carter
Notice: West Grove & Jennersville Self Storage, LLC
Will be holding a Public ONLINE Auction @storageauctions.com
CLOSING Aug 29, 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 Rd., West Grove, PA 19390 (610) 869-4032
816 T Nester; 310 L Sitaras; 1218 W Sherry; 405 G Bialk; 831 J Carpenter
Jennersville Self Storage, 3 Briar Drive, West Grove, PA 19390 (610) 869-7060
281 K Kalb; 169 S Dougherty; 138 M McMullin
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.
A.K.A. Walter R. Carter, Died 1-30-2025, late of, Oxford, Pennsylvania, Chester County, Pennsylvania. LETTERS Testamentary on the above Estate have been granted to Bruce B. Carter, Executor , who request all persons having claims or demands against the estate of the decedent to make known the same and all persons indebted to the decedent to make payment without delay to Bruce B. Carter, Executor C/O Attorney George S. Donze, Esquire, Donze and Donze, 696 Unionville Rd. Suite 6, Kennett Square, PA 19348 8p-6-3t
NOTICEPENNSBURY
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 August 28, 2025, at 7:00 p.m. at which time the Board will hear the following matter: In re: Application of Multum In Parvo, LLC, seeking a special exception under Zoning Ordinance Section 1202.B.8 to allow the addition of a cardiology component to an existing veterinary clinic; and seeking a special exception or variance so as to permit the expansion of a building that is nonconforming as to the 75-foot front yard setback requirement under Ordinance Sections 1203.A.4 and 1206a.A so as to accommodate the proposed cardiology practice at property located at 455 Old Baltimore Pike Unit 2 Chadds Ford, PA (UPI #64-3-80) in the Township’s HC-Highway Commercial and in the Route 1 Corridor and Brandywine Battlefield Overlay 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
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ESTATE NOTICE
Estate of Marlene E. Hamilton, deceased Late of the Township of West Fallowfield, Chester County, PA LETTERS Testamentary on the above Estate have been granted to Teresa M. Hamson, Executrix, 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 Teresa M. Hamson, Executrix, c/o James Clark Associates 277 Millwood Road Lancaster, PA 17603 Attorney: Neil R. Vestermark
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ESTATE NOTICE
Notice is hereby given that Letters Testamentary have been granted to Robert Samuel McMichael, Executor for the Estate of Audrey Wilson Neyman, whose last address was Borough of Oxford, Chester County, Pennsylvania. Any person having a claim to this Estate is asked to make same c/o R. Samuel McMichael, P.O. Box 296, Oxford, PA 19363. 8p-6-3t
ESTATE NOTICE
Notice is hereby given that Letters Testamentary have been granted to Kathy Moody and Tracy Pietrinferni, CoExecutrices for the Estate of Carol S. Birt whose last address was East Nottingham Township, Chester County, Pennsylvania. Any person having a claim to this Estate is asked to make same c/o R. Samuel McMichael, Esquire, P.O. Box 296, Oxford, PA 19363.
8p-6-3t
NOTICE OF FICTITIOUS NAME REGISTRATION
Notice is Hereby Given pursuant to the provisions of Act of Assembly, No. 295 Office of the Department of State of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, at Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, an application for the conduct of a business in Chester County, Pennsylvania under the assumed or fictitious name, style or designation of Danny Paisley and the Southern Grass, with its principal place of business at 559 Church Hill Rd., Landen-
berg, PA 19350, was filed August 1, 2025, by Danny Paisley, 559 Church Hill Rd. Landenberg Pa, 19350. 8p-13-1t
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 Thursday, September 4, 2025, at 7:00 p.m. at which time the Board will hear the following matter: In re: Application of William T. Josem and Nancy Adler seeking a variance from the 600 square foot maximum size of all accessory buildings on a 3.1 acre property under Zoning Ordinance Section 162-2002.A.2.d, and such other relief as may be required, so as to permit the addition of a detached two-car garage on residential property located at 102 Cossart Road, Chadds Ford, PA 19317 (UPI #64-6-13.3) in the Township’s R-1 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 Christina Church 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 8p-13-2t
PUBLIC NOTICE
OXFORD BOROUGH POLLUTANT REDUCTION PLAN
PUBILC COMMENT
Oxford Borough is an individual NPDES permit holder for the discharge of stormwater from a regulated municipal separate storm sewer system (MS4) to waters of the Commonwealth. The Borough’s receiving streams (Unnamed Tributary of West Branch Big Elk Creek (HQ-TSF, MF)Tweed Creek (TSF, MF), Unnamed Tributary to Leech Run (TSF, MF); and Unnamed Tributary to Little Elk Creek (HQ-TSF, MF)) are located in State Water Plan watershed 7-K and are classified for Trout Stocking, High
Quality Waters—Trout Stocking, and Migratory Fishes, aquatic life, water supply and recreation. Oxford Borough is classified as a small MS4. The Borough submitted a Pollutant Reduction Plan to reduce pollutant loads to impaired waters. A draft of the plan will be available for public review and comment between August 13 and September 12, 2025 at Borough Hall, located at 1 Octoraro Alley, Oxford, PA 19363, Monday through Friday between the hours of 8:30 am and 3:30 pm. Comments must be submitted in writing by September 12, 2025 to Borough Hall at the address listed above (Attn: Borough Manager) or by email to manager@oxfordboro. org, and must include commentor’s name and address. Comments can also be made in person at Borough Council meetings (August 18, and September 8) at Borough Hall at 7:00 pm. If you are a person with a disability wishing to attend the aforementioned meetings and require auxiliary aid, service or other accommodation to observe or participate in the proceedings, please contact the Borough at 610-932-2500 to discuss how your needs may best be accommodated.
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U.S. Reps. Houlahan, Bice announce BIOTech Caucus
Bipartisan House Caucus will advance domestic bioeconomy and competitive posture
U.S. Representatives
Chrissy Houlahan (D-PA) and Stephanie Bice (R-Okla.) recently announced the formation of the BIOTech Caucus.
The Caucus’ mission is to advance bipartisan policy solutions to keep the United States at the forefront of global biotechnology leadership, to engage and learn from sector leaders, and to build awareness and bioliteracy among members of Congress.
Joining co-chairs Representatives Houlahan and Bice on the BIOTech Caucus are vice-chairs Representatives Ro Khanna (D-CA), Gus Bilirakis (R-FL), Jake Auchincloss (D-MA) and Pete Sessions (R-TX).
The Caucus recognizes the strategic economic and national security imperatives of federal policy investments in emerging biotechnology. The Caucus’ founding comes after the release of the National Security Commission on Emerging Biotechnology (NSCEB)’s comprehensive report to Congress in April of this year. The NSCEB report showed that China is surging ahead in key areas of emerging biotechnology, and Congress must act now to ensure the United States regains and retains its
competitive edge. Failure to respond urgently to this and other national vulnerabilities risks the United States falling dangerously, and potentially irrecoverably, behind.
Ceding biotechnology leadership will also cripple the robust industry job growth in America. On a national scale, the bioscience industry had a $2.9 trillion impact on the economy in 2021, supporting 2.1 million jobs.
The BIOTech Caucus will collaborate to advance, support, and champion legislation to bolster the domestic bio-economy, with three primary areas of focus:
1. Ensuring domestic bio-security
2. Driving bio-innovation
3. Unlocking bio-opportunity, in particular job growth, across the country.
“I believe strongly that the United States must lead the world, with its democratic values, in shaping the future of emerging biotechnology that will fundamentally change our lives across health care, agriculture, manufacturing, and more,” said Rep. Houlahan. “I’m thrilled to be working again with Representative Bice and our vice-chairs to tackle a major national
issue like we’ve done with paid family leave, and I am committed to working across the aisle to see our biotechnology recommendations come to fruition.”
“Serving as a commissioner on the National Security Commission on Emerging Biotechnology has heighented my awareness of the capabilities and threats from our near-peer adversaries,” said Rep. Bice.
“The BIOTech Caucus will work to ensure that America remains a leader in biotechnology. We must champion policies that unleash innovation and grow this critical sector.”
“Investments in biotechnology will pave America’s path toward economic and scientific leadership in the 21st-century economy. The BIOTech Caucus will be critical to fostering innovation, biosecurity, and success in industries of the future,” said Rep. Ro Khanna.
“America’s leadership in biotechnology is critical to our national security, economic strength, and public health. The BIOTech Caucus will ensure that Congress remains informed, engaged, and proactive in supporting innovation, advancing responsible policy, and maintaining our global edge in this vital sector,” said
Congressman Gus Bilirakis.
“There are a lot of bad ideas about biotech in Washington right now. Congress must promote good ones: expand funding for basic research; protect intellectual property; set high and clear standards; lower co-pays; and take out the middlemen,” said Rep. Jake Auchincloss.
Congressman Sessions said, “I am looking forward working to fostering bipartisan collaboration on the BIOTech Caucus to support cutting-edge research and strengthen America’s competitive edge on the global stage. It is our job in Congress to create an environment where the biotechnology sector can thrive, advancing lifesaving breakthroughs, generating high-quality jobs, and fueling economic growth. By embracing pro-innovation policies and supporting the entrepreneurial spirit that defines American capitalism, we can secure our future and reinforce the United States as the world leader in innovation.”
“Emerging biotechnology is at an inflection point, and the creation of the BIOTech Caucus is a vital and welcome step towards making this impactful technology a national priority,” said
NSCEB vice chair Michelle Rozo. “I applaud the cochairs for their thoughtful, bipartisan leadership and look forward to collaborating with them as we work together to implement the NSCEB’s recommendations and strengthen our national and economic security.”
Kelly Seagraves, vice president of National Security and International Affairs at BIO said, “Biotechnology means hope and health for people and patients around the world, but it also means jobs, economic growth, and national security for Americans. The bipartisan BIOTech Caucus will play a pivotal role in creating the policy and regulatory environment needed to leverage our scientific ingenuity and innovative spirit to advance U.S. leadership in biotechnology. We look forward to working closely with the BIOTech Caucus and its members to address these vital issues.”
“EBRC applauds the Chairs of the Congressional BIOTech Caucus for their leadership in launching this important bipartisan effort. Biotechnology holds immense potential to strengthen national security, drive innovation in all sectors, and create eco-
nomic opportunity across America,” said India HookBarnard, Chief Executive Officer, Engineering Biology Research Consortium.
“The recent NSCEB report has underscored the urgency of sustained congressional action to ensure U.S. leadership in emerging biotechnology, and we believe the BIOTech Caucus will play a critical role in advancing that goal. EBRC looks forward to working towards supporting this mission alongside our peer organizations.
“Today’s launch marks an important milestone in American efforts to lead the world in bio-manufacturing,” said Brooke Coleman, executive director of the newly formed American Alliance for Bio-manufacturing.
“U.S. bio-manufacturers are delivering a new generation of bio-based products spanning industries as diverse as energy, defense, agriculture, chemicals, ingredients, sweeteners, materials, fabrics, and nutrition, but we need smart policy to stay ahead of the competition. We look forward to working with the BIOTech Caucus to turbo-charge resilience and growth across America’s bio-economy.”
Constellation Energy’s interns give back in a United Way ‘Day of Caring’
On July 29, Constellation Energy and United Way of Southern Chester County (UWSCC) partnered for a meaningful and impactful Day of Caring, bringing together 38 Constellation interns and employees for a day of networking, service, and community connection.
Interns and employees from three Constellation sites—Peach Bottom, Limerick, and the Kennett Square office—fanned out across the region to volunteer with several of UWSCC’s trusted nonprofit partners. Their collective efforts made a tangible impact across six different organizations: Kennett Area Community Services, YoungMoms, The Garage Youth and Community Center (Kennett Square and Avondale locations), Tick Tock Early Learning Center, and The Wardrobe – Kennett Square.
From curating outfits at The Wardrobe and pulling weeds at preschool playgrounds, to organizing storage spaces, sprucing up youth centers, and packing food for families in need, volunteers were immersed in the hands-on work that
supports UWSCC’s mission of improving lives across Southern Chester County.
“Whether packaging groceries or brightening a space for young learners, every task taken on by Constellation’s interns was meaningful,” said Darcie Martin, executive director of United Way Southern Chester County. “This day was about more than volunteer hours—it was about deepening connections between future leaders and the community we serve.”
Volunteers not only gave back through service, but also learned about the critical, day-to-day work of local nonprofits supporting families facing poverty, housing insecurity, educational gaps, and other challenges. Their experience reflects United Way’s broader goal: to connect people, purpose, and place for lasting impact.
United Way Southern Chester County was proud to partner with Constellation Energy for this special Day of Caring—a true celebration of teamwork, compassion, and corporate social responsibility.
connection.
Oxford Borough police recap a busy month
There were dozens of police involvements right around the July 4 holiday, always a busy time for law enforcement
By Betsy Brewer Brantner Contributing Writer
This year’s Fourth of July fireworks celebration in the Borough of Oxford made for a busy time for the Oxford Police Department.
Oxford Police Chief Sam Iacono asked Sgt. Chris Coverly to present his monthly report to borough council since he was on duty that day.
Coverly explained that from July 4 through July 5, the Oxford Police Department responded to 45 calls for service which included all the following:
• 2 traffic stops
• 16 property checks
• 6 medical calls
• 2 domestic incidents
• 3 foot patrols
• 1 animal complaint
• 3 police information calls
• 2 phone assignments
• 1 lost and found
• 1 follow-up investigation
• 4 noise complaints
• 1 incident classified as “all other”
• 2 disturbances
• 1 theft report
Coverly said, “Over one and a half hours, between 9:01 p.m. and 10:28 p.m. on the night of July 4, the Oxford Police Department responded to five properties for fireworks-related
complaints. These were dispatched calls, and our officers responded as quickly and effectively, balancing other ongoing calls for service.
“From 11 p.m. to midnight, officers including myself, also initiated contact at three additional locations where fireworks were still being set off. These were self-initiated patrol contacts, not 911calls. In each case, we respectfully asked residents to stop for the night and they complied.”
Coverly also explained, “With that said, Oxford Police Department did respond to the calls for service, although some residents may not have been satisfied with the outcomes, our approach reflects a commitment to community policing, an approach that focuses on educating the public rather than immediately issuing citations.
“We firmly believe that building long-term relationships and trust within the community is far more effective than taking a heavy-handed stance over celebratory conduct that, while disruptive, was not reckless or malicious.”
Coverly noted that he knows of no other officer in Chester County that has fireworks training. He also said that if fireworks or debris fell on someone’s
property it was deemed a civil matter.
“The Chief said he checked with the courts and unless someone testifies that they personally see it, there is nothing they can do,” he said. “It’s complicated. The law needs to be changed.”
Iacono also reported to council about police department activities for the month of June. There were 631 involvements for the month of June.
The officer who passed the Civil Service test also passed the physical, Iacono said. Currently, the department is down one officer who is out on medical leave. Another officer is off the job to a medical situation.
Iacono said that Sgt. Coverly does a good job covering schedules. The police chief mentioned that a business owner said recently that he never sees a police officer on South Third Street. The police chief explained that he pulled reports for 21 days and, according to the reports, an officer was on S. Third Street 126 times.
“Sometimes perception and reality are two different things,” he said. “We typically have two officers working. It’s a delicate situation to manage.”
The police chief also said that anyone can go online and make a complaint or do it in person at the police station.
Oxford Mayor Phil Harris told borough council that the police were available at the open house at Whitehall Acres apartments.
“It is private property. There is not a lot we can do. There is a new manager at Whitehall who said
they will work with the police,” he said.
During public comment, David Twardowski asked about Section 27.1207 regarding the construction of a fence. Twardowski asked if the borough enforces the ordinances on fences.
Council President Kathryn Cloyd and Borough Manager Pauline Garcia-Allen both confirmed that the Borough Ordinance Section 27.1207 regarding fencing is enforced.
Council member Peggy Russell asked Twardowski to please have the resident who was concerned about the fencing enforcement contact the borough’s codes enforcement officer. Garcia-Allen informed council that the $3.5 million water plant update design is 90 percent completed. If that stays on schedule, the bid for the project will go out in March of 2026. The design will then be sent to Pennvest for funding possibilities.
MS4 stormwater regulations were also discussed. There will be more discussion in the future as a result of court cases occurring in the county.
The borough is still reviewing the stormwater fee. For the time being, the borough is on hold as to how the MS4 stormwater mandate will be funded.
Currently, the borough’s aging stormwater infrastructure in the Broad Street and Whitehall area cannot keep up with the water usage they are now experiencing. The 100-year-old pipe must be replaced. Continued research on easements is
necessary to move forward on the project.
The application procedure proposed for non-profit organizations requesting funding from the borough continues to be discussed. A question was raised about whether the library funding could be raised by approval of a dedicated tax which could be established by the borough.
At the meeting, Oxford Borough Council also approved the following:
• Historical Architectural Review Board Certificate of Authenticity for 1 South Third Street;
• Historical Architectural Review Board Certificate of Authenticity for 610 Market Street;
• 109 North Fifth Street - an extension was approved for an appeal of the curbing requirement.
• Hearing for ordinance #974-2025 amending Chapter 15, Motor Vehicles and Traffic, Part 2, Traffic Regulation, §15-201 to change the speed limit on Pine Street in the borough from 35 MPH to 25 MPH.
• Authorization to advertise an ordinance amending Chapter 5, Code Enforcement, Part 6, Administration and Enforcement, §5-612.
• Authorization to advertise an ordinance amending the non-uniform employees’ pension plan document.
• Notice of intent to award construction contract for the Mt. Vernon Streetscape infrastructure project to MECO Construction, Inc., the lowest bidder, in the amount of $1,898,087, conditioned upon the contractor’s execution of the contract, supply of the
required bonds and insurance, and solicitor review and approval.
• Joint construction and reimbursement agreement between the Borough and the Oxford Area Sewer Authority in relation to the infrastructure improvements on Mt. Vernon Street.
• Acceptance of an extension which will run through and include the date of August 18, 2025, for review of Enox Land LP’s final land development plan of the Moran Farms Property.
• Spotts, Stevens, and McCoy (SSM) proposal in an amount not to exceed $5,300 to complete final requirements for submission and approval of the borough’s Pollutant Reduction Plan to the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection.
• Resolution #1406-2025 to submit a Multimodal Transportation Fund Program grant application to the PA Department of Community and Economic Development to support improvements along Western Terrace in the Borough.
• Konica/Minolta printer/copier lease proposal in the amount of $1,105 annually, $5,525.00 over 5 years for the police department, conditioned upon solicitor review and approval of the contract.
• Rio Supply Inc. Pay Application #6 in the amount of $56,035.45 for the grant-supported Water Meter Replacement Project. The next meeting of Oxford Borough Council will be held at 7 p.m. on Aug. 18 at the Borough Hall.
Courtesy photos
On July 29, Constellation Energy and United Way of Southern Chester County partnered for a Day of Caring, bringing together 38 Constellation interns and employees for a day of networking, service, and community
