By Richard L. Gaw Staff Writer
At a Dec. 15 meeting that covered many components of the township ranging from a proposed development update to the possible selling off township assets, the New Garden Board of Supervisors ticked off one top priority that has been on the agenda since August.
By a unanimous vote, the supervisors gave their approval to the township’s
2026 budget, which estimates $14,635,490.37 in expenditures for the new year, with $9.1 million designated to its general fund; $2.09 million targeted to its capital fund; and $2.94 targeted to its airport fund. In total, the figure represents a $1.2 million increase from 2025.
On the flip side of the accounting ledger, total estimated revenue for 2026 will be $15,079,355.46, an increase of $1.8 million
from 2025.
The steps to approving the 2026 budget began on Aug. 25, when township Manager Christopher Himes gave a State of the Township public presentation that took a deep dive into the township’s financial picture – one that folds in the costs involved with its large-scale projects including New Garden Hills and the Smedley Preserve as well as public safety and the necessary maintenance
of its roads and infrastructure. After a Sept. 8 meeting that delivered a five-year forecast in spending, the board discussed its general fund portfolio on Sept. 29 and Oct. 6 that explored budgets for public safety, community development, parks and recreation, open space, fire, sewer and public works, as well as the New Garden Flying Field.
After a follow-up presentation by Himes on Oct. 14, the board gave preliminary
approval to the 2026 budget on Oct. 20.
White Clay Point update
In other township business, Ray Jackson, managing partner of Stonewall Capital, LLC, returned to the Township Building for the fourth time to give the supervisors an update on the progress the company has been making in the planning of its proposed White Clay Point, a 220-acre
transformative mixed-use development project that is bordered to the north by Sheehan and Sharp roads, by Sunny Dell Road to the west; by Reynolds Road to the south; and the area immediately to the west of Route 7. Jackson said that the company became the title owner of the property one week ago and in doing so, Stonewall was able to reach an agreement with
By Chris Barber Contributing Writer
Kennett Consolidated School District Superintendent Kimberly
Rizzo Saunders announced that the proposed 2026-27 calendar will remain substantially the same next school year as 2025-26.
At the Dec. 8 school board meeting, she reported that she had conducted a survey of students, staff and parents to determine their preferences before she presented it for approval in January.
She enumerated the results:
For the start of school, most preferred the end of August rather than after Labor Day.
For winter/holiday break, which in 2026 includes Christmas and New Year’s Day on Fridays, the majority of those interviewed
preferred the whole two weeks/10 days. She said with the time extended to 10 days, it would likely push the closing days in June somewhat later.
The survey also yielded a preference for half-day student attendance to take place on days that staff would be undergoing professional development in the afternoon.
For spring break, the majority preferred to keep it the week around Easter.
In other business, Vicki Gehrt, the school district’s representative on the Intermediate Unit school board, announced that Heart Start will continue in spite of proposed cessation by President Donald Trump.
Gehrt said that she learned in her latest meeting that these Chester County preschools face significant cash
By Richard L. Gaw Staff Writer
For the past decades, whenever the London Britain Township Board of Supervisors gathered for their public meetings, they were accompanied not only by interested members of the municipality, but by inconveniences uncommon to most modern-day public buildings of its kind. There were no restrooms, no audio-visual technology, no private meeting space for elected officials,
and the heating ventilation was often so loud and inefficient that it drowned out important conversations.
“COVID-19 really shone a spotlight on what we were lacking when we began conducting Zoom meetings,” said supervisor Brian Sachs. “The existing building had one outlet. We had to stretch a phone line out the door and across the grass and into the other township building, and that is when we decided that we needed to make some renovations.”
At one meeting in January of 2023, township resident and now board member, Bruce Yost, volunteered to spearhead the plan to revitalize the space. The renovation was supported by funding the township had received earlier from the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021. Over the next
by Richard L. Gaw London Britain Township Supervisors Brian Sachs, Aileen Parrish and Bruce Yost at the township’s refurbished meeting hall.
By Joseph Mesa Contributing Writer
Coming off successful community celebrations that included the Mushroom Cap Half Marathon and Holiday Light Parade, Kennett Square Borough Council’s Dec. 8 meeting transitioned from celebrations to routine governance.
By a vote taken at their Dec. 15 meeting, council approved Resolution 2025-10, listed on the agenda as “Bontrager
Walk Designation,” authorizing a commemorative sign to be installed on Birch Street in honor of local businessman and philanthropist Mike Bontrager. The resolution capped a year in which Bontrager was also awarded Kennett Township’s Medal of Merit for his role in shaping the region’s recent redevelopment and nonprofit landscape. Supporters pointed to Birch Street itself as the most visible argument for the honorary sign.
When Bontrager and his team at Square Roots Collective re-imagined the derelict former milk plant on Birch Street as The Creamery in 2016, the property had sat abandoned for years.
In the decade since, The Creamery has become a regional destination—a beer garden and community gathering place that hosts concerts, art events and seasonal markets, including the Holiday Village Market that now anchors the
town’s December calendar. Square Root’s own materials describe the Birch Street project as an effort to make the corridor “a place of art, culture, and community,” and emphasize that 100 percent of the profits from The Creamery, Artelo and its Birch Street real estate are directed to community nonprofits.
Those efforts were recognized earlier this year when the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic
Development awarded a $1 million Main Street Matters grant to stabilize and expand The Creamery. Bontrager’s broader impact extends beyond Birch Street.
As founder of Chatham Financial, he built a global risk-management firm employing more than 750 people in offices across North America, Europe and Asia, including a major presence in Kennett Square. He launched Square Roots
Continued on Page 2A Continued on Page 3A
Continued from Page 1A
AQUA Pennsylvania for the contractual obligations necessary to provide water and sewer to the proposed development.
“The benefit of the agreement will not only give capacity to White Clay Point, but we negotiated additional capacity for the township,” said Jackson, who added that he and Himes have scheduled an upcoming meeting with AQUA to begin an alliance between the township, Stonewall Capital and the water company.
In addition, Jackson said that the company will schedule quarterly meetings with the Somerset Lake community to address their concerns about the proposed development which, if built, will bor-
der the development; and hat the company recently met with the New Garden Township Historical Commission to discuss the company’s commitment to restore the historic Rowan House on Sunny Dell Road a total estimated cost of $1.08 million, and the stabilization of the historic barn on Sheehan Road as a potential site for a farmer’s market and public venue, at an estimated cost of $1.7 million.
Jackson said that Stonewall Capital plans to submit updated plans for the proposed development to the township’s Planning Commission in February of 2026, in preparation for a presentation to the Commission in March. He added that the company continues to have conversations with potential retail partners.
The proposed develop-
ment will consist of 263 single family detached homes; 90 20-foot-wide townhomes; 200 24-footwide townhomes; and 112 stacked townhomes – all at a per unit price tag estimated to be between $300,000 and $900,000.
The proposal also calls for the creation of a walkable street grid that connects homes, civic spaces and park land; and 75,000 square feet of commercial space that is projected to have one grocery store, proposed to be between 20,000 and 30,000 square feet; four retail units; and a Wawa convenience store.
For an up-to-date status of
the proposed development, visit www.whiteclaypointpa.com.
Putting New Garden Hills assets up for sale
The board approved the pursuit of Orphan Court and/or county or commonwealth approval for the sale of certain parcels and assets located in New Garden Hills.
The approval of this measure opens the township to further implement its $5.1 master plan for the 147-acre property by showcasing several nonprotected impervious and outdated structures in the
park to be included in the court review process: the pool, the amphitheatre, a parking lot, the farmhouse, a garage on Limestone Road, and a building that had previously been used for scouting groups.
In his presentation, Himes said that while the structures were not included in the revised master plan, they can figure heavily in the projected and continuing design of the park through partnerships with outside business owners who have the financial capacity to convert these structures into future park assets such as a beer garden, small market and food spaces, and spaces for outdoor programming that can be the future site of festivals and art shows.
“There is no management plan to keep up with the depreciation of these assets, so if we don’t continue to invest in them,
they will continue to deteriorate, and some of them already have,” Himes said. “If you’re going to have active walking space around these assets, people will be walking adjacent to these crumbling structures. If you have this roll-out vision of a plan that asks visitors to enjoy nature and within it you have these almost apocalyptic set of structures, it doesn’t create a family environment.
“We want to make the plan safe and clean, and the only way we can do that is to seek active use of these properties within the property.”
The topic of selling these assets in New Garden Hills will continue to be discussed at future board meetings.
To contact Staff Writer Richard L. Gaw, email rgaw@chestercounty.com.
The 95th Radnor Hunt Races, running on May 16, 2026, will mark the Brandywine Conservancy’s final year as sole beneficiary and operator
The Brandywine Conservancy has announced that the 95th running of the Radnor Hunt Races, taking place on May 16, 2026, will mark the organization’s final year as the sole operator and beneficiary of this event, which the Brandywine has led for the past 45 years.
The Brandywine is committed to working closely with the leadership of the Radnor Hunt to help them identify a new operator and work on a transition plan to ensure that the Races continue to thrive for decades to come.
“The Radnor Hunt Races have been a beloved springtime tradition on the Main Line for nearly a century— long before the Brandywine became the sole operator and beneficiary of the Races in 1980—and one that we hope will continue long after Brandywine’s involvement,” said Virginia Logan, the Frolic Weymouth executive director & CEO of the Brandywine Conservancy & Museum of Art. “For the last 45 years, the Brandywine has been proud to play a leadership role in this storied event, which has benefited the Conservancy’s open space and clean water initiatives.
“With the centennial running of the Races approaching in a few years, it is now time for the Brandywine to pass the baton on to a new operator to continue the tradition of the Radnor Hunt Races into the event’s next century.
While the 95th anniversary of the Races will mark the Brandywine’s final operation of the event in May 2026, we remain proud of the role we have played in
stewarding this event for more than four decades and the lasting legacy of ‘Racing for Open Space’ that we will carry forward.
“We are deeply grateful for the leadership team and all members of the Radnor Hunt, the National Steeplechase Association, our committee members, sponsors, partners, race staff and officials, volunteers, thoroughbred owners and trainers, jockeys, and spectators who have supported this event over the years. We look to make our last year operating the Races the best one yet, and we hope to see this event continue to grow in its next chapter.”
Built on a rich history of horse racing that has been cultivated in the region for nearly 100 years, the Radnor Hunt Races have been supported by the legacy of protecting the stunning open spaces that make this region such a beautiful place to call home. With the help of the races and many likeminded partners, the Conservancy has protected over 70,700 acres of open space to date—including the Radnor Hunt racecourse itself and surrounding lands—and continues to improve and safeguard water quality, land protection, outdoor recreation and historic preservation in southeastern Pennsylvania and northern Delaware.
“We were saddened to learn that 2026 will be the last year with Brandywine Conservancy as operator and sole beneficiary of the Radnor Hunt Races, and it will be our honor to partner with them for their 45th and final year,” said Jodi Spragins, Radnor Hunt
president. “We recognize that this was a challenging decision, and we want to express our profound gratitude for the incredible effort Brandywine has dedicated to nurturing the Radnor Hunt Races into the prestigious event it is today.
“Our two organizations share a strong partnership and a mutual passion for the role of equestrian sport in land conservation. In light of this transition, Radnor Hunt leadership will begin exploring ways to reimagine and continue this historic springtime event.”
“The Brandywine Conservancy has been proud to play a leading role in the Radnor Hunt Races for the past 45 years of the event’s nearly 100-year history, and we look forward to making this last year our best one yet,” said George Strawbridge Jr., chair of the
Radnor Hunt Races committee. “On behalf of the Radnor Hunt Races committee, we wish the event continued success in its next chapter and remain committed to working with the Radnor Hunt leadership team over this next year to help provide a smooth transition to the successor of the Races.”
The Radnor Hunt Races are traditionally held annually on the third Saturday of May each year. With nearly 18 months of advanced notice prior to the 96th running of the Races in 2027, the Brandywine is hopeful that there will be ample time for the leadership of the Radnor Hunt to identify an alternative operator. Brandywine remains committed to helping the Radnor Hunt and any new operator for the event with a successful transition plan.
Those interested in taking over the operation of the races can contact the Radnor Hunt directly at gm@radnorhunt.org.
Planning efforts for the 95th running of the Radnor Hunt Races are underway, with corporate sponsorship and advertising opportunities now available. Held on May 16, 2026, this year’s event will celebrate both the remarkable history of the Races and Brandywine’s 45 years of partnership.
Tickets will go on sale beginning March 3, 2026, with proceeds benefiting the Brandywine Conservancy.
To date, the event has raised more than $5.5 million for the Conservancy’s open space and clean water initiatives. In addition to the jump races sanctioned by the National Steeplechase Association, special events throughout the day will include the annual Katherine W. Illoway Invitational Sidesaddle Race, pony races, a spectacular antique carriage parade, and the much-loved parade of foxhounds. Those interested in learning more about sponsorship and advertising opportunities can visit www.radnorhuntraces.org, or contact the Brandywine at radnorhuntraces@brandywine.org or 610-388-8104.
Continued from Page 1A
flow challenges in order to continue.
The federal budget also leaves $58 million in grants unfunded.
Despite the revenue shortfall, the Chester County Intermediate Unit continues to secure opportunities to offset costs.
The board also approved a request by Spanish teacher Mark Williams
for a student trip to Spain in March of 2027. He said that he would encourage students who desired to go to find various ways to raise the funds by creative means to offset the costs of the trip.
In other school district news, the board heard a report on a project to upgrade the cafeteria and library to start with planning in January. The projects will be put out to bid in January of 2027 and will be completed by July of 2028.
Continued from Page 1A
Collective, which has seeded or supported initiatives from the Kennett Creamery and Kennett Trails Alliance to Voices Underground and youth leadership and inclusion programs throughout Bontrager Walk...
southern Chester County. Against that backdrop, some residents shared public comments that warned that naming a piece of the public realm after Bontrager while his projects are still expanding risks reinforcing a pattern in which wealth and influence buy visibility, while longtime public
servants, Pulitzer Prize winners, volunteers, heroes, and grassroots organizers labor in relative obscurity. Kennett Square Borough Council’s agenda overall reflected just how quickly Kennett is changing. In addition to the Bontrager Walk resolution, members reviewed condominium
agreements and bid rankings for the sale of portions of the borough complex at 600 S. Broad Street, an ongoing effort to reposition public property for private redevelopment. They also worked through the final draft of the 2026 budget and a proposed tax-rate increase, and considered
special-event permits for next year’s slate of festivals, including Winterfest, the Memorial Day Parade and the Holiday Light Parade. What is clear is that Kennett’s rapid transformation is forcing the borough to have harder conversations about how it balances gratitude, accountability and
equity. The Bontrager Walk sign will likely go up on Birch Street in the coming months. The addition of the sign will serve as a formal acknowledgment of Bontrager’s larger role in recent revitalization efforts, as Kennett Square enters another year of growth and municipal planning.
Unruh Turner Burke & Frees announced that attorney Robert C. Jefferson, IV has joined the firm. Jefferson’s practice is concentrated on municipal and governmental law, land use, land development, and zoning.
“Rob’s dedication to client service and his thoughtful, solutions-oriented approach make him an outstanding addition to our Land Use and Municipal team,” said Andrew D.H. Rau, partner and member of the firm’s Executive Committee. “His knowledge of municipal law and commitment to the community will benefit our clients and strengthen our practice. We are delighted to welcome him to the firm.”
Jefferson previously served as an Assistant District Attorney in Chester County, where he gained extensive courtroom experience and developed a strategic approach to complex legal matters. He now represents municipalities, developers, and property owners before zoning boards, planning commissions, and other municipal authorities.
Clients appreciate Rob’s practical insight, thorough preparation, and clear communication, especially in matters involving local governance, land use regulation and development approvals. His ability to anticipate challenges and present well-reasoned arguments reflects the same precision
and professionalism that defined his years in public service.
Beyond his legal practice, Rob remains deeply involved in community service and education. He has mentored students in the West Chester Area School District, served on the Board of Trustees for People’s Light Theatre, and previously supervised the Certified Legal Internship Program at the Chester County District Attorney’s Office. Jefferson has also contributed to organizations such as the Chester County Fund for Women and Girls and the Crime Victims’ Center of Chester County. Jefferson has been recognized for his professional excellence by
Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch, Super Lawyers Rising Stars, and several regional publications. In 2021, he was appointed to the Pennsylvania Bar Association’s House of Delegates.
Rob earned his Juris Doctor degree from the University of Pittsburgh School of Law and his Bachelor of Arts in Finance, cum laude, from the University of Pittsburgh. He is admitted to practice before the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania and is a member of the Chester County and Pennsylvania Bar Associations. A resident of Exton, Rob continues to dedicate time to community engagement and public education.
Long-time superintendent donated prize to student scholarships
Dr. John Sanville, who led the Unionville-Chadds Ford School District for more than 14 years and currently serves as managing director for K-12 education at CRA | Admired Leadership, received the Pennsylvania Association of School Administrators (PASA) Leadership in Public Education Award on Nov. 13.
In keeping with his commitment to students, Dr. Sanville donated the $1,000 award to the UCF Community Scholarship Fund, which has supported graduating seniors at Unionville High School for over 50 years.
“It is truly an honor to recognize Dr. John Sanville for his impactful contributions at Unionville Chadds Ford School District and statewide,” said Dr. Sherri Smith, executive director of PASA. “John leads and influences others with his calm, positive, and confident approach, constantly sharing his wisdom and experience. He is an inspiration to all who have the opportunity to know and learn from him.”
The Leadership in Public Education Award, sponsored by PFM/PLGIT, recognizes exceptional leadership that advances public education, strengthens the profession, and leaves a lasting mark on students, schools, and communities. Sanville was selected from numerous nominations submitted by district colleagues, former students, and peers across Pennsylvania.
“This award recognizes exceptional leadership that advances public education, strengthens the profession, and leaves a lasting mark on students, schools, and communities,” said Brian Sanker
of PLGIT in presenting the award. “Few exemplify those qualities more fully than Dr. Sanville.”
During his nearly two decades at UnionvilleChadds Ford, including 14 years as superintendent, Dr. Sanville led the district with what colleagues describe as “a rare blend of vision, integrity, and compassion.”
Under his leadership, the district was named School District of the Decade by the Pittsburgh Business Times.
Dr. Sanville introduced forward-thinking initiatives while maintaining respect for practices that were working well. He led the creation of the district’s Portrait of a Graduate and Portrait of an Educator frameworks— guiding documents that align curriculum, hiring, and professional growth with the district’s mission and values.
His student-centered innovations included championing later start times for secondary students, implementing restorative discipline practices, and establishing a full-day kindergarten program built on play-based, nature-centered learning. When funding presented an obstacle for the kindergarten program, Dr. Sanville secured a major grant from the Longwood Foundation—convincing them, for the first time, to invest directly in a public school district.
“Dr. Sanville’s impact on public education extends far beyond any one district. His leadership has helped shape how educators across Pennsylvania think, grow, and serve. This recognition is a testament not only to his vision, but to the countless students and leaders whose lives are better because
of his influence,” said Dr. George F. Fiore, executive director of the Chester County Intermediate Unit.
When the pandemic disrupted schools across the country in 2020, Sanville’s steady leadership guided Unionville-Chadds Ford’s transition to remote learning without missing a single day of instruction.
“Colleagues describe him as a developer of people—someone who invests deeply in others, offers honest guidance, and models what ethical, student-centered leadership looks like,” Sanker noted in his remarks.
Sanville established systematic leadership development across every level of the organization—from teachers and administrators to board members and students—cultivating a culture that promoted growth and improvement throughout the district. Many administrators who worked under his leadership have gone on to become superintendents and assistant superintendents across Pennsylvania.
“Leadership is never a solo act,” Sanville said in his acceptance remarks. “Jack Welch once said, ‘Before you are a leader, success is all about growing yourself. When you become a leader, success is all about growing others.’ Watching the leaders I’ve worked with grow and develop has been one of the greatest joys of my career.”
Dr. Sanville’s influence extends well beyond his district. As President of PASA, he led the organization through a critical leadership transition, working tirelessly to strengthen public education across Pennsylvania by advocating for sound policy, mentoring new superintendents,
and fostering collaboration among leaders statewide.
“He is not just a great leader, but a positive and uplifting friend to all who have the opportunity to work with him,” Sanker said. “He has shown that great leadership isn’t about authority—it’s about service, relationships, and a relentless belief in what’s possible for children.”
Throughout his career, Dr. Sanville has been deeply committed to leadership development. His doctoral dissertation focused on principal emotional intelligence and its impact on school climate. For the past five years, he has partnered with Admired Leadership to bring research-based leadership development to educators across Pennsylvania and beyond.
“Great leadership isn’t about personality or charisma,” Sanville noted. “It is built on behaviors, routines, and actions that make people and situations better.”
Since retiring from UCFSD in July 2025, Sanville has continued his work in education as Managing Director for
K-12 Education at CRA | Admired Leadership and as a consultant with Schneider Electric. His “retirement” auto-reply message captures his ongoing commitment: “I’m trading snow day decisions for helping other educational leaders navigate their own storms.”
Dr. Sanville’s decision to donate his $1,000 award to the UCF Community Scholarship Fund reflects his enduring commitment to Unionville-Chadds Ford students. The fund provides scholarship aid to outstanding graduating seniors at Unionville High School, supporting students as they pursue post-secondary edu-
cation. Last year, the fund awarded eight graduating seniors each with a $1,000 scholarship.
“This donation ensures that the recognition I’ve received will directly benefit the students and community I was privileged to serve,” Sanville said. The award ceremony took place during PASA’s annual conference, where Sanville was joined by his wife Debbie, former and current board members from UCFSD including three board presidents, and numerous superintendents and assistant superintendents who worked with him during his career.
“With the help of an adult education center, I finished my high school diploma, and it changed my life.”
By Richard L. Gaw Staff Writer
From an historical perspective, the Feast of the Seven Fishes - also known as la Viglia - is an ItalianAmerican celebration on Christmas Eve that commemorates the wait for the midnight birth of Jesus Christ and observes the abstinence of meat until Christmas Day.
The tradition is named for seven different seafood dishes that are typically served at the meal, which often include salted cod, eel, shrimp, calamari, a seafood salad and pasta with seafood.
From a local perspective, this bountiful tradition has become one of southern Chester County’s hottest and hard-to-get reservations, and on Dec. 24 – and for the 15th year - La Verona in Kennett Square will play host to hundreds of guests who arrive at the restaurant
Continued from Page 1A
two years, Yost, with the support of Sachs, board chairperson Aileen Parrish and the township’s Core Project Team set out to renovate the space to combine form and function. As the project took shape, the board sought input from the surrounding commu-
with great anticipation for the meal ahead and leave with the satisfaction of a memorable dining experience they many not soon forget.
In fact, the annual feast - hosted by Chef Jack Mavraj, his brother, Sam and their staff - has become so popular that guests place their reservations for the following year as they are leaving that year’s fivecourse meal.
“They stop at the desk on their way out and tell us, ‘Put us in the book for next year,’” Jack said. “We’re completely booked again this year, from the time we open at 3 p.m. until we begin to close at about 9 p.m., and as of right now, we already have 300 reservations made.”
At an average of four guests per table, that translates into 1,200 meals, but Jack won’t be alone in the kitchen. The day’s feast will be provided by six other
nity and members of the audience during township meetings.
After a renovation of the 1,200-square-foot space – designed in collaboration with Chesterville Architects and constructed by a team of local contractors - the revamped space officially opened in September. The meeting hall includes a restroom,
chefs and several prep staff, who will be assisted by Samuel’s Seafood Company in Philadelphia, with whom Jack consults to assure that the delivery of what will go on the plates of hundreds of guests will be the highest quality seafood.
While the Feast of the Seven Fishes has become a tradition in the U.S., it is also an annual rite of the Mavraj family in Kosovo, and one that has been passed on to hundreds of families throughout the southern Chester County community.
“Even though it is always one of our busiest days of the year – a day when I am away from my family and children – it is my favorite day here at La Verona,” Jack said. “There’s nothing like being in the kitchen and being told by our wait staff that their guests are paying us the highest compliments.
“It’s not just a regular night. It’s a special night
four large-screen monitors, upgraded lighting, a separate conference room, and additional seating. Eventually, its front vestibule walls will display special treasures and important proclamations from the township’s history.
“The goal of this building was to keep the look of an old schoolhouse, but with
for all of us here. It is something that we are all so proud of – every one of our staff - and it is our gift to our guests, because without them, we would not be here.”
This year’s Feast of the Seven Fishes begins at 3 p.m. While the event is sold out, guests can preorder take-out by calling La Verona at (610) 444-2244, or order online by visiting www.laveronapa.com.
To contact Staff Writer Richard L. Gaw, emailrgaw@chestercounty.com.
the Seven Fishes on Dec. 24, which has already sold out with 300 reservations made.
modern technology,” Sachs said, referring to the room’s original blackboards, pitched ceiling and a bell in the front of the building, which was once used at the South Bank School. “We wanted to keep the charm of it without making it look like just another conference room.”
In addition to the Board of Supervisors, the refur-
bished space will also be used by several of the township commissions and committees, and it will be made available for local scout groups, homeowner’s associations, Avon Grove Library, our regional emergency management partners and Pennsylvania State Police to use as an adjunct meeting space.
“Our vision for this
meeting hall is to provide a welcoming space for London Britain residents and the wider community,” Parrish said. “Our hope is that the building will offer a host of useful tools to guide the township over the next two decades.”
To contact Staff Writer Richard L. Gaw, email rgaw@chestercounty.com.
Two months ago, in an attempt to incorporate the scientific axiom “The shortest distance between two points is a straight line” into his navigational choice, the Chester County Press reporter endeared to shave off a few minutes between his story assignments, and left Kennett Square toward Chadds Ford via Route 1.
It was a huge mistake.
From the moment he wove his way into the highway, he took up membership in a fraternity of drivers who were helpless to the congestion ahead as far as the eye could see. After a full 20 minutes of gas-pedal creeping, the reporter arrived at the reason for the delay that has slowed the course of his fellow drivers – and hundreds of thousands just like them - over the past few months. The project, located near the Onix Road-Route 1 traffic light, calls for the widening of Route 1 in order to make way for the construction of a 15,000-square-foot, four-building conglomerate that will install a massive convenience store, a bank, an urgent care facility…and a chain Mexican restaurant, a national brand that already has, to date, 147 locations in Pennsylvania, and carries a really nifty slogan that believes food has the power to change the world.
There are, as this newspaper goes to press, threethousand eight hundred and thirty such restaurants with this name in the United States, and a recent check of its website reveals that every menu in every one of its stores is exactly the same and, as each location is bound to confine their menu to the same recipes, each item tastes more or less exactly the same, whether one visits a location in West Chester, Parkesburg or Doylestown.
Perhaps the largest insult of this chain’s decision to locate a new branch on Route 1 is not in further cultivating the Americanization of Mexican cuisine, but in its choice of location. When it opens, it will be mere minutes away from the rich heritage of a Hispanic community that has been enfolded into the heart and character of the Kennett Square community, and whose influence is seen and felt and experienced everywhere, from parades and art and history to the power of its people.
This is a community that has also endowed to Kennett Square the culinary tastes of its heritage, and each visit and each take-out order comes with the flavors of a country that honors its cuisine from the heart and considers food one of the several bounties of its culture. It is this simple gift of authenticity that chain restaurants can never give their customers, no matter how grand they lacquer up their identities with nods to various cultures. For those of us who truly embrace the gifts given to us by our friends and neighbors of the Mexican heritage, we offer you the following list, one to cherish and be nourished by.
Mexican restaurants in Kennett Square
El Poblano, 700 West Cypress Street, (484) 753-1639
El Ranchero, 305 West State Street, (610) 925-0122
El Rinconsito, 345 Scarlett Road, (484) 731-4114
Kaboburritos, 148 West State Street, (610) 880-6074
La Pena Mexicana, 609 West Cypress Street, (610) 925-2651
La Trailita Foods, 970 West Cypress Street, (484) 757-4011
Michoacana Grill, 201 South Union Street, (610) 444-8979
Panaderia y Taqueria Morelo, 835 West Cypress Street, (610) 444-0306
Plaza Azteca, 196 Onix Drive, (610) 347-1044
Red Sombrero, 879 East Baltimore Pike, (610) 925-3777
Taqueria y Carnicera Guadalajara Express, 520 South Union Street, (484) 348-4014
Published by - The Lieberman Family
Steve Hoffman...............................Managing Editor
Richard L. Gaw...............................Associate Editor
Chris Barber.............................Contributing Writer
Betsy Brewer Brantner...........Contributing Writer
Marcella Peyre-Ferry..............Contributing Writer
Gene Pisasale...........................Contributing Writer
Monica Thompson Fragale....Contributing Writer
Brenda Butt......Legals, Obituaries & Subscriptions
Tricia Hoadley........................................Art Director
Sherry Hutchinson......................Graphic Designer
Alan E. Turns...........................Advertising Director
Teri Turns...............................Advertising Executive
Helen E. Warren....................Advertising Executive
Gabbie Burton.........................Contributing Writer, ....................Digital Marketing and Media Specialist
Mr. Jim Diluzio, Sr.’s letter published in the November 18 edition of the Chester County Press gets a few things correct: Route 41 in southern Chester County is an unsafe and outdated highway, and land use along Route 41 transitions from a rural setting north of US 1 to a suburban/urban setting in the south. Beyond that, however, I could not disagree with him more. Diluzio, Sr. laments as a lost opportunity that Route 41 was not transformed into a four-lane highway with bypasses cutting through agricultural lands as had been proposed by a consultant to PennDOT over 20 years ago. I along with many other residents see this as a catastrophe averted. Our organization - Safety, Agriculture, Villages, & Environment (S.A.V.E.) - argued then that adding lanes to a roadway does not solve congestion, but rather only creates more traffic. Today, this demonstrable phenomenon of “induced capacity” is treated as doctrine among transportation planners and engineers. Similarly, Diluzio Sr.’s dogged insistence that roundabouts do not function well on a heavily traveled roadway is simply wrong.
Evidence of their capabilities is as close as the new intersection of Routes 41 and 926, or in Swarthmore, at the intersection of Route 320 and Chester Road. There are numerous other examples throughout the U.S. Carmel, Indiana boasts about its 140 roundabouts.
Returning to the area of agreement with Mr. Diluzio, the question remains, what is to be done along the tenmile section of Route 41 from Delaware up to Route 796 – a stretch that is unsafe and outdated?
In 2002, S.A.V.E. commissioned its own extensive report, “A Two-Lane Alternative for Pennsylvania Route 41,” which concluded that both the communities along Route 41 and also through traffic can be accommodated with an improved two-lane roadway and with modern roundabouts for intersection control.
We stand by this conclusion today. The author of that report, Lucy Gibson, was the speaker at our annual event in October, which was covered accurately and in depth by Chester County Press Staff Writer Richard L. Gaw. I would refer readers back to Mr. Gaw’s article to read about the elements of a vision-based corridor plan that Gibson provided,
including an emphasis on safety, accessibility, and connectivity which promotes eco-nomic vitality and sense of place which residents are proud to call their home.
One aspect of Gibson’s presentation that deserves emphasis is the situation in Avondale. She noted that the borough is being asked to do an awful lot: simultaneously hosting a corridor for traffic while also being a place that is historic and valued by its diverse residents. She provided a few ideas for Avondale such as developing a traffic network structure which could allow residents to avoid use of Route 41 during the most congested periods, although she did caution that this was easier said than done.
Another idea was to implement a complete streets and gateway design to make walking and biking safer. While S.A.V.E. takes a corridor-wide view of Route 41, we also believe that any successful redesign plan must improve Avondale and help the borough become a more walkable, vibrant community for the benefit of its residents and commercial interests.
S.A.V.E. remains aspirational in its vision for this region and Route 41. Our focus is to preserve what
we cherish about where we live and work while at the same time being guided by a regional vision which addresses transportation challenges. Integral to our thinking is making use of modern concepts in multi-modal transportation design and complete streets which are intended to accommodate all those who use the roadway. We support high quality, compact infill development to enable growth. We also support the protection of agriculture, accessible transportation, and a corridor design which respects the different landscapes and contexts of all the municipalities.
Ultimately, a regional vision developed and endorsed by the municipalities, their residents, and their businesses is required to plan and then to fund improvements for Route 41. Municipal collaboration will be essential in order to make progress. S.A.V.E. will continue to bring elected officials, planners, engineers, and of course residents and businesses to the table to create a vision for the future of Route 41 which PennDOT can implement.
George Hundt, Jr. executive director, S.A.V.E.
By Marie-Louise Meyers
This holiday season, Longwood Gardens once again proves its ability to envision another perspective and tactile approach to the season as you round every corner with your mouth perpetually open in anticipation. The East Conservatory does not disappoint with stunning jewels embedded in trees and hanging stars.
The spectacular 24-foot central tree is bejeweled in ruby gems with a garland of red and gold as the tree slowly rotates amidst ferns and poinsettias, the kind you only dream of ever seeing, hardly believing as if royalty was embossed from the very roots of its inception.
The ingenuity of hand crafters are made visible in the Community Trees ornate with their 3-D effects, and
all the gems associated with the holiday season you ever relished embellished with jewels. A display by
The Mighty Writers displays felted ornamental animals, while the ingenuity of the Christmas Card Tree creators encompasses everything you ever wanted to do with precious cards you put away for safe keeping. Organ music provides the sounds of Christmas in your joyful anticipation of the Christmas season to come.
Suspended in the Exhibition Hall, a Solitaire, reflecting all the color tints imaginable in a gigantic diamond-shaped mobile from ceiling to floor.
The Music Room affords you everything you desire, but can’t afford in this dramatically licensed Jewelry Store with an 18 foot tree emerging from a music box while a dining table is set
with candelabras with gilded mirrors.
How astounding to see hot pink rollers on the ceiling as you proceed to the Orchid House with glittering chandeliers filled with their exotic presence.
In the West Conservatory, quiet reigns as the sublime flow of water leads you to a room filled with Mediterranean plants and embellished with jeweltoned and shimmering trees in an ever-changing palette as if floating, artfully inspired by amethyst caves.
The Wildlife Tree always an eye-catcher but more for the satiated birds and other wildlife that flock
to the see how the gilded coconut and oyster shells furnish both respite and seeds.
Don’t forget to see the Tree Houses, they don’t disappoint with their filigree as if anointed by the stars above settling down with pronouncements of Love as with every exhibit including perennial Trains with new additions everpresent with its replica of the West Conservatory. It takes both Know-How and a year of dedicated devotion and incubation for these ingenious and talented horticulturists to come up with such startling perfection.
by Gene Pisasale
By Gene Pisasale Contributing Writer
The year is 1778. George Washington and his Continental Army recently suffered a humbling defeat at the Battle of the Brandywine. The war against England has been raging for three years with few victories to give Americans confidence they will prevail.
One local citizen—who had fought alongside Washington’s troops—has changed sides, supporting the British, plundering local farms and bringing his wrath upon anyone who supports the Patriot cause. Large and muscular, he has become a highwayman, brutally robbing people at gunpoint wherever he finds them around southern Chester County.
Known as “Captain Fitch” to some, James Fitzpatrick’s exploits terrorized the area and his actions became legendary, described in a fascinating new book Sandy Flash and the Trail of History.
Fitzpatrick is better known to locals as “Sandy Flash,” a moniker given to him by Kennett Square’s most famous son, Bayard Taylor. Taylor’s novel “The Story of Kennett” (1866) reinvented the famous outlaw, placing him in the mid-1790s to fit into a narrative of Taylor’s hometown as it existed almost 15 years after the American Revolution.
Though Fitzpatrick was well known and recognized in the region, he managed to repeatedly escape groups of armed men out to capture him. His ruthless escapades are magnified in Taylor’s
novel, which was quite popular, becoming part of local culture. Over time, the outlaw Fitzpatrick morphed into people’s consciousness as the character Sandy Flash.
Sandy Flash and the Trail of History is historian Gene Pisasale’s 12th book. It delves into the lives and accomplishments of several notable Chester County characters over the last 300 years. A “hybrid,” the book is an historical novel set not in the past, but in the present day. Following the exploits of the main characters, Jim and Natalie Peterson, the novel takes readers on a fascinating tour of the southeastern Pennsylvania region going all the way back to the early 1680s, when William Penn built his home Pennsbury Manor on the west bank of the Delaware River.
Following a trail of clues the couple find after visiting The Square Tavern in Newtown Square, they are intrigued by the late 18th century outlaw Fitzpatrick, whose exploits took him through their own community as he terrorized the citizens of Chester County from 1777 to 1778.
Sandy Flash and the Trail of History deftly utilizes numerous historical sources, including local archives and libraries to reveal the “real” James Fitzpatrick, his life and wanderings around the region, showing him interacting with other well-known personalities including Indian Hannah, the so-called “Last of the Lenape,” and politician and Chief Justice of Pennsylvania Thomas McKean. McKean was the trial judge who convicted
Fitzpatrick in 1778 and sentenced him to hang for his crimes in September of that year.
Deciphering their personal lives, the book makes some fascinating observations about how several notable characters—the artist Benjamin West, botanist Humphry Marshall, doctor/entrepreneur William Darlington and Taylor himself likely knew each other and interacted in some way, a subject never before described in an historical narrative.
How would it feel to go back 150 or 200 or 250 years or more and actually meet these persons, spend time with them and learn what their lives were like?
Sandy Flash and the Trail of History does just that as it probes the historical record and presents new information to think about regarding these people who are now entrenched in Chester County culture.
Indian Hannah is known to have been an “herbalist” and was well-versed in the uses of local plants for healing illnesses. She is also known to have lived on the property of Humphry Marshall, whose book
Arbustum Americanum established him as one of the most knowledgeable botanists of his era, discussing the medicinal uses of dozens of plants. Is it possible that the experienced herbalist—who did speak English—shared her in-depth knowledge of local plants with the famous botanist? The book makes a strong case that it did occur.
The book also makes an intriguing parallel to present day Chester County. In the late spring and summer of 1778, Fitzpatrick made numerous escapes, evading large groups of law enforcement officers, much like escaped murderer Danilo Cavalcante did fleeing the Chester County Prison here in the summer of 2023. Cavalcante eluded a group of 500 officers for two weeks until he was finally captured.
Bayard Taylor likely used newspaper articles describing Fitzpatrick to re-create a larger-than-life figure who frightened citizens as he went on his robbing spree. In 2023, thousands of locals were terrorized as they received “reverse 911” calls, alerting them to the fact that an escaped murderer was on the loose not far from their homes.
Sandy Flash and the Trail of History expertly delves into the personal lives and accomplishments of several characters notable in local culture, weaving their actions together in a fascinating narrative sure to please not only history buffs, but anyone interested in Chester County heritage. The book will soon be available on www.Amazon.com and, by
year end, through Pisasale directly on his website www.GenePisasale.com. Pisasale will be doing a discussion and book signing at the Kennett Library sometime early in 2026. Check the website at https://kennettlibrary.org/ kennett-calendar/ for more information.
Gene Pisasale is an historian, author and lecturer based in Kennett Square. His 12 books focus mostly on the history of the Chester County and mid-Atlantic region. Gene’s most recent book is Heritage of the Brandywine Valley, showcasing the fascinating people, places and events of this region over more than 300 years. His books are available on his website at www.GenePisasale. com and also on www. Amazon.com. Gene can be reached via e-mail at Gene@GenePisasale.com.
TheChesterCountyPressfeaturesadedicatedchurch/religious
Francis B. Krzywicki, age 96, of Landenberg, passed away on Dec. 11, 2025. He was the spouse of the late Helen (Chessock) Krzywicki, with whom he shared 59 years of marriage. Francis received a degree in accounting from Wilkes College in Wilkes-Barre, Pa. After college, he moved to Wilmington, Del. to work at the DuPont Company.
In his spare time, Francis was an avid vegetable gardener and grew much of his and his family’s food over the years. He was a passionate Philadelphia sports fan, cheering on the Phillies and the Eagles season after season. Above all he enjoyed spending time with his family and friends.
Francis was a long-time parishioner of Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Catholic Church in West Grove, and he was also a member of the Knights of Columbus.
Francis is survived by his children, Mike Krzywicki, Matthew Krzywicki (Sandra), Denise Sinigaglio (Mike), and Carol Wilson and his grandchildren, Scott Wollaston (Megan), Laura Chandler, Carrie Scallan (Ross), Jenn Krzywicki, Michelle Krzywicki (Chris), Amanda Harley (Mark), Lizzy Krzywicki (Kalil), Stephen Sinigaglio (Sydney), Allison Sinigaglio, Renee Hihn (Matt), Ryan Wilson (Anna), and Jerad Wilson (Gretchen).
You are invited to visit Francis’s family and friends from 10 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. on Jan. 2, 2026 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church at 203 Church Road in Oxford. His funeral mass will follow at 11 a.m.
Interment will take place following the mass at St. Patrick’s Cemetery at 460 North Union Street in Kennett Square.
Arrangements are being handled by Grieco Funeral Home.
The third annual Brandywine Holiday Festival of the Arts is poised to bring a fun-filled weekend of creativity, community and holiday spirit to Wilmington’s Riverfront.
The event invites families, gift-shoppers and art enthusiasts to experience more than 150 local artists and artisans showcasing handmade, one-of-a-kind gifts.
The hours are Saturday, Dec. 20, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday, Dec. 21, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Chase Center on the Wilmington Riverfront. Admission is $5 per day, and children 12 and under can enter for free. The artists and artisans will have original paintings, sculpture, photography, jewelry,
woodworking and more for sale. There will be engaging activities for the entire family—including chil -
dren’s crafts, face-painting and interactive activities. Artisan food vendors will be offering samples of their
treats like caramels, macarons, fudge, nut butters, chocolates and more. It’s the perfect opportunity to
support local artisans and artists and find meaningful gifts while enjoying the holiday spirit.
Andrew Kreider was recently named as the new communications director for Chester County government.
Chester County Commissioners Josh Maxwell, Marian Moskowitz, and Eric Roe announced the appointment in a statement, and the appointment was effective on Dec. 1.
Kreider takes on the new role after an extensive career with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, where he most recently served as Region 3 Senior Congressional & Intergovernmental Liaison and as communications director in the EPA’s Philadelphia regional
office.
Kreider succeeds Rebecca Brain, who will retire at the end of the year after 19 years leading the county’s communications operations and Public Information Office.
“We are pleased to welcome Andrew to Chester County,” Maxwell, Moskowitz, and Roe said in a statement. “His deep experience in public affairs and communications will serve our residents and our more than 2,400 county employees extremely well.”
During his tenure as Senior Congressional & Intergovernmental Liaison for EPA Region 3, Kreider led a team responsible for coordinating the agency’s
work with U.S. Senate and House offices representing Delaware, Maryland, Pennsylvania, West Virginia, and Washington, D.C. He also served as the primary point of contact for state, county, and local elected officials engaging with the EPA.
As communications director for the EPA’s Philadelphia-based regional office, Kreider oversaw a team of public affairs specialists, developed new state-specific communications and government relations strategies, and directed all media-related initiatives.
In his new role, Kreider will report to Chester County CEO David
Byerman and will guide all public information and communications efforts across county departments, highlighting county programs and services. His responsibilities will include traditional and digital media relations, social media strategy, production of the county’s weekly news, and leadership of a comprehensive internal communications program. He will also serve as communications liaison with county-affiliated agencies and community partners.
“Chester County has a terrific story to tell, and Andrew is the right person to help tell that story,” said Byerman. “He combines
significant experience with crisis communications, a sophisticated knowledge of local news media, and a political savvy that comes with serving in communications roles under both Republican and Democratic administrations. Andrew has some big shoes to fill, but we believe he’ll be a tremendous addition to our team.”
Kreider is a graduate of Penn State University’s Schreyer Honors College, where he earned a bachelor of arts degree in political science. He has received numerous EPA honors, including the EPA Regional Administrator’s Award for Excellence in Communications and Community Engagement. He resides in Chester Springs.
Accreditation reflects commitment to safety, quality and exceptional experiences
The YMCA of Greater Brandywine (YGBW) recently announced that all eight of its summer camps have earned accreditation from the American Camp Association (ACA) – the nation’s leading authority on summer camp, focusing on safety and program quality.
Accreditation is a voluntary process that evaluates summer camp providers well beyond Pennsylvania’s basic licensing requirements for summer camp operators. This achievement places YGBW among an elite
group of camps nationwide that meet the ACA’s rigorous standards for health, safety, operations and youth development.
ACA accreditation is considered the gold standard in the camp industry. To earn this designation, camps must undergo a comprehensive review of more than 290 standards, including emergency preparedness, staff training, program quality, risk management, camper supervision and inclusion practices.
“Choosing a summer camp is not an easy decision for families to make,” said
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 January 14, 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 # 3007 Kristen Devilbliss Unit # D119, 2212, & 125439 Sam Imburgia Unit # 3204 Torrin Davis
DEStorage.com Newgarden reserves the right to withdraw any storage unit from sale or cancel the sale without prior notice.
ESTATE NOTICE
ESTATE OF MARY LORETTA McGRAW, DECEASED.
Late of Elk 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 JESSIE McCARTY, EXECUTRIX, 117 Elgin Avenue, Haddon Township, NJ 08108, Or to her Attorney: KENNETH C. RUSSELL, RUSSELL LAW, P.C., 3500 Reading Way, Huntingdon Valley, PA 19006 12-3-3t
ESTATE NOTICE
Letters Testamentary have been granted in the Estate of PATRICIA F. FISHER, late of East Fallowfield Township. All persons having claims or demands on the Estate are requested to make them known, and all persons indebted to the said decedent are requested to
make payment without delay.
TAMMY M. DONOHUE, c/o The Law Firm of Barry S. Rabin, 797 E. Lancaster Avenue Suite 13, Downingtown PA 19335, Personal Representative. Barry S. Rabin, 797 E. Lancaster Avenue Suite 13, Downingtown PA 19335, Attorney. 12p-10-3t
ESTATE NOTICE
ESTATE OF Clifford Harley Gray, III of Upper Oxford Township, Chester County, Deceased. Letters of Administration c.t.a. on the estate of the above named Clifford Harley Gray, III having been granted to the undersigned, all persons having claims or demands against the estate of the said decedent are requested to make known the same and all persons indebted to the said decedent to make payment without delay to: Taylor Bard, Administrator c.t.a. c/o Attorney: Winifred Moran Sebastian, Esquire P.O. Box 381 208 E. Locust Street Oxford, PA 19363 12p-10-3t
Bridgette Barbera-Byrne, senior association director of youth sports, programs and summer camp for YGBW. “Caregivers consider many factors, including location, pricing, themes – and of course reputation. Knowing that YGBW camps are ACA accredited gives caregivers confidence in our commitment to safety and quality.”
ACA accreditation provides peace of mind by ensuring that:
• Safety protocols are nationally vetted by an independent third party - including aquatics, trans-
portation, environmental safety and emergency response;
• Staff are highly trained in youth development, first aid/CPR, behavior support and risk management;
• Programs foster growth, helping campers build confidence, independence, friendships and resilience;
• Operations are regularly reviewed by independent experts to ensure continuous improvement and accountability; and that
• Inclusion and accessibility are prioritized, ensuring all campers feel welcome and supported.
REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL
(RFP) will be received by Twin Valley School District, 4851 N. Twin Valley Rd, Elverson, PA 19520, for the following: Network Switches hardware and licensing, and Wireless licensing. This RFP is published through E-Rate Form 470 # 260007971, and complete RFP documentation is available therein. The deadline for vendor questions is Friday, 12/19/2025, at 2:00 PM Eastern Time. Proposals must be submitted by Thursday, 1/22/2026, at 2:00 PM Eastern Time. Twin Valley School District reserves the right to accept or reject any or all proposals or part of any proposal or waive any irregularities in any proposal. TWIN VALLEY SCHOOL DISTRICT, Mike Nappi, Director of Technology 12p-10-3t INCORPORATION
NOTICE
Patco Properties Corporation has been incorporated under the provisions of the Pennsylvania Business Corporation Law of 1988, as amended. 12p-17-1t
NOTICE of Organizational Public Meeting
The Penn Township Supervisors shall schedule a SPECIAL Public Organizational Meeting for 5:30 p.m. on Monday, January 5, 2026 at the Penn Township Municipal Building, Finnen Community Room, 260 Lewis Road, West Grove, PA. Immediately following will be the regular Board of Supervisors meeting for January. Please refer any questions or requests for special accommodation to Caitlin Ianni, Township Secretary at 610-869-9620. Respectfully submitted, Caitlin A. Ianni, Penn
Township Secretary 12p-17-1t
East Penn Railroad, LLC will receive sealed bids at its office located at 505 South Broad Street, Kennett Square, PA 19348 until 2:00 p.m., prevailing time, Monday, February 2nd, 2026, for the ESPN ESAID 202308311402 Siding Extension Project Contract 5. At that time, all bids will be publicly opened and read aloud. A link to the virtual bid opening will be provided to all registered plan holders. Work will consist of labor and equipment required to surface newly constructed railroad track. The railroad will self-perform all other trackwork. Electronic copies of the Bid Packages may be obtained at no cost by emailing Drew Bessette, P.E., at dbessette@ benesch.com. No formal pre-bid meeting will be conducted for this project. While WBE/MBE participation is not required, it is strongly encouraged. The Railroad reserves the right to waive any informalities, to accept any bid, to reject any or all bids, and to adjust the scope of work to align with available funding if deemed in its best interest. 12p-17-2t
NOTICE
Oxford Borough scheduled a public meeting of Borough Council on Monday, December 22, 2025 at 7:00 pm to continue a public hearing to consider and possibly enact an ordinance amending Chapter 27, Zoning, of the Oxford Borough Code. The Council meeting is open to the public and will be held at Oxford Borough Hall, 1 Octoraro Alley, Oxford, PA. If you are a person with a disability wishing to attend the public meeting and require auxiliary aid, service, or other accommodations to observe or
YGBW Summer Camp registration opens on Tuesday, Jan 13, 2026. Families who register early will save 10 percent per camper per week as part of YGBW’s Early Bird Discount. YGBW also offers income-based pricing to ensure that all children in Chester County have access to a high-quality summer experience – and that caregivers feel supported while working. Families can visit the Welcome Center at any YGBW branch to learn more about income-based pricing.
YGBW serves more than
participate in the proceedings, or you have questions please contact the Borough Manager at 610-932-2500 to discuss how your needs may be best accommodated.
Pauline Garcia-Allen Borough Manager 12p-17-1t
We buy 8,000 cars a week. Sell your old, busted or junk car with no hoops, haggles or headaches. Sell your car to Peddle. Easy three step process. Instant offer. Free pickup. Fast payment. Call 1-833-926-4725
DISH Satellite TV + Internet! Free Install, Free HD-DVR Upgrade, 80,000 On-Demand Movies, Plus Limited Time Up To $600 In Gift Cards. Call Today! 1-855-335-6094
Home:
New windows from Window Nation. Special money saving offer – zero down, zero payments, zero interest for TWO years AND buy 2 windows and get 2 FREE! Offer is valid for select models. Labor not included. Other restrictions apply. Call Window Nation today! 844-513-2646
No more cleaning out gutters. Guaranteed! LeafFilter is backed by a no-clog guarantee and lifetime transferrable warranty. Call today 1-855-569-3087 to schedule a FREE inspection and no obligation estimate. Get 15% off your entire order. Plus, Military & Seniors get an additional 10% off. Limited time only. Restrictions apply, see representative for warranty and offer details.
5,000 campers each summer across Chester County, offering summer camps that appeal to a wide range of youth and teens. Summer camp offerings include sports, swimming, nature and outdoor exploration, STEM, theater, leadership development, arts, adventure and more. With a focus on building character, confidence and community, YGBW camps help children grow in mind, body and spirit. For more information about YGBW Summer Camp, visit https://ymcagbw.org/ summer-camps-ymca.
Prepare for power outages today with a Generac Home Standby Generator. Act now to receive a FREE 5-Year warranty with qualifying purchase. Call 1-888-605-4028 today to schedule a free quote. It’s not just a generator. It’s a power move. Replace your roof with the best looking and longest lasting material - steel from Erie Metal Roofs! Three styles and multiple colors available. Guaranteed to last a lifetime! Limited Time Offer - up to 50% off installation + Additional 10% off install (for military, health workers & 1st responders.) Call Erie Metal Roofs: 1-844-290-9042 The bathroom of your dreams in as little as 1 day. Limited Time Offer - $1000 off or No Payments and No Interest for 18 months for customers who qualify. BCI Bath & Shower. Many options available. Quality materials & professional installation. Senior & Military Discounts Available. Call Today! 1-855-504-4710 Timeshares: Wesley Financial Group, LLC Timeshare Cancellation Experts Over $50,000,000 in timeshare debt and fees cancelled in 2019. Get free informational package and learn how to get rid of your timeshare! Free consultations. Over 450 positive reviews. Call 855-402-5341
Natural Lands has announced the addition of two adjacent, undeveloped parcels totaling 102 acres to its Bryn Coed Preserve in Chester Springs. The newly acquired lots bring the total acreage of the nature preserve to just over 612 acres. The properties will be stewarded to benefit native plants and wildlife.
In the 1970s, the Dietrich family assembled the vast acreage known as Bryn Coed Farms one parcel at a time. One of these tracts was the former homestead of U.S. Supreme Court Justice Owen J. Roberts, who named his farm “Bryn Coed,” which means “wooded hill” in Welsh.
Many worried over the fate of the pristine farmland and forests—located just 30 miles northwest of Philadelphia—as development pressures increased in the region. In 2018, Natural Lands acquired the entirety
of the 1,505-acre property to protect it from large-scale development. The organization created a 510-acre nature preserve at the heart of the property and partnered with West Vincent Township, which created the 72-acre Opalanie Park immediately adjacent to the preserve. Natural Lands preserved the remainder of the land by selling large-acreage lots, each under permanent conservation easement, to conservation-minded buyers.
Donors who wish to remain anonymous have gifted two of those lots back to Natural Lands to increase the size of the preserve and, ultimately, to make more of this important landscape available for public recreation. The parcels consist of gently rolling fields, forest, and hedgerows.
Natural Lands President Oliver Bass said, “Saving Bryn Coed was the chance of a lifetime, and we’ve
benefitted mightily from the support of devoted partners, funders, and donors. This extraordinary gift of an additional 102 acres will expand both the footprint and the
benefits of the preserve for generations to come.
“I have such respect for preserve manager Darin Groff and assistant preserve manager Caleb Arrowood,
who have transformed Bryn Coed into a thriving nature preserve filled with native plants. They will steward these new parcels with the same care and passion, and we’ll all reap the benefits of their work.”
“It’s very exciting to add additional acreage to the preserve,” said Darin Groff, director of land stewardship.
“Over the next couple of years, we will be planting wildflower meadows for pollinator habitat and additional grasslands, and work to connect wooded areas to one another by planting additional trees.”
Natural Lands is dedicated to preserving and nurturing nature’s wonders while creating opportunities for joy and discovery in the outdoors for everyone. As the Greater Philadelphia region’s oldest and largest land conservation organization, Natural Lands—which is member supported—has preserved more than 136,600 acres, including more than 40 nature preserves and one public garden totaling more than 23,600 acres.
For more information about Bryn Coed Preserve, visit the website at natlands. org.
By Richard L. Gaw Staff Writer
If there is a textbook definition of a Unionville High School boys’ basketball player, it is that his approach to the sport is molded from the granite fundamentals of the game - selflessness and intelligence – and magnified in the form of diving for loose balls, sharp passing that finds the open man and a defense that is relentless but never sloppy. It is a philosophy welded into the playbook of Head Coach Chris Cowles and passed down to his players, and over the past few seasons, it has served as a testament to the way the game should be played, win or lose.
These accolades were on full display during the Longhorns’ 46-31 victory over visiting Sun Valley on Dec. 11, a game that saw its’ zone defense hold the Vanguards to just
four points in the second and third quarters while patiently orchestrating a perimeter offense behind guards Tommy McGinnis and Harris Stanislawczyk.
From the opening tip to the final buzzer, Unionville dominated the tempo on both sides of the floor, accented by several backdoor layups and holding Sun Valley to four quarters of one-and-done offense with rip-and-readthe-floor rebounding by Will Sharkey and Graham Huntington that led to fastbreak baskets.
Following two early buckets by Sun Valley’s Jhamil Smith, Unionville got on the board with a threepointer by McGinnis with 6:30 left in the quarter that was followed by a gametyping layup one minute later. Sean Haug gave the Longhorns a 9-7 lead on a pass from McGinnis with 4:20 left, that was followed
by a pass from Sharkey to Brendan Heyer on the next possession.
Carrying a slim 16-14 lead into the second quarter, Unionville’s Owen Watson helped his club jump out to a 24-18 halftime lead with a driving layup and a threepointer with 3:55 left in the first half.
As the third quarter got underway, Cowles’ oncourt classroom began to turn on its jets, as Sharkey and Huntington killed off Sun Valley possessions by banging the boards and the Unionville offense continued its patient ways, highlighted by a seven-pass possession that led to a bucket by Huntington and was followed by Watson’s second three-pointer of the game that staked Unionville to a 34-21 lead with under three minutes remaining in the quarter.
Carrying a 12-point, 34-22 lead into the fourth quarter, Unionville placed further exclamation points on its win, punctuated by a coast-to-coast drive by McGinnis with 2:15 left in the game.
“We were trying to be disciplined with our assignments,” Cowles said of his team’s effort. “We settled in nicely and I think it’s a testament to our guys being disciplined while also being tough.
“We’re learning how to be play both aggressively and with discipline, and while it may sound like a paradox, that’s how you maximize success. It’s great to be aggressive and it’s great to be disciplined, but you don’t want to think too much and become be too focused on being disciplined, and you don’t want to be so aggressive that you lose your discipline.”
Unionville was led by McGinnis’ 13 points, followed by Watson with 8 points. For Sun Valley, the Vanguards were led by game-high scorer Smith with 14 points and Zion Cauthorn with 9 points. Now 3-3 in the early season, Unionville will host Bayard Rustin on Dec. 18 and will travel to Avon Grove on Dec. 20. Sun Valley will look to get back to the winners’ circle when it travels to Kennett on Dec. 18 and returns home to face Interboro on Dec. 22.
To contact Staff Writer Richard L. Gaw, email rgaw@chestercounty.com.
By Andrew Tubbs
The stakes couldn’t be higher. Our commonwealth is attracting unprecedented economic investment from data centers, advanced manufacturing and cutting-edge industries that will define the 21st-century economy. This growth in economic development requires more power, but the ability for supply to meet that demand faces serious questions.
PJM’s recent capacity auction results revealed a 630 percent increase in payments to power plant owners over two years. That’s billions of dollars flowing to generators. Yet despite these windfall profits, new generation isn’t coming online fast enough to meet surging demand. This alarming gap threatens our economic competitiveness and reliability.
Meanwhile, this exact scenario is playing out right now amid a hotly contested gubernatorial election in New Jersey, as households have seen their electricity bills surge 22 percent higher in the last year. Experts attribute this directly to supply issues that Pennsylvania
is now facing. We don’t need to follow the same path. Pennsylvanians deserve better, and our state can embrace its role as an energy leader.
This isn’t about choosing markets over regulation or vice versa. Pennsylvania’s electric distribution companies have consistently supported competitive markets and continue to work with competitive suppliers on long-term procurement strategies. Pennsylvania’s electric utilities believe in market solutions — when they work.
But we also believe in pragmatism. Even with significant new generation projects moving forward, like the Homer City generation restart, Pennsylvania needs more options, more urgency and more accountability. Rather than merely accepting that businesses and families must face the outcomes of inaction, our commonwealth must be open to new thinking.
When power prices spike or the lights go out, customers don’t call PJM or independent power producers. They call their electric utility and elected officials.
Yet under current law, utilities have an obligation to serve but no authority to ensure adequate generation to meet that obligation.
Think of it this way: It’s like a company being forced to provide a warranty on a product it didn’t build and can’t fix if it breaks.
Pennsylvania’s utilities aren’t seeking to dismantle competitive markets. They are bringing forward solutions:
• Enhanced procurement flexibility: Working with competitive suppliers on long-term contracts that could incentivize new investment.
• Backstop authority with strong oversight: Allowing utilities to seek authority to build generation only if markets fail to deliver, with mandatory Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission approval and opportunities for competitive generators to offer alternatives.
• Collaborative urgency: Recognizing that no single entity — not PJM, not generators, not utilities — can solve this alone. These are pragmatic tools
to preserve competition while creating accountability when markets fall short.
Electric utilities are being asked to meet their obligation on the hope that markets will eventually respond — or rely on solutions that materialize only when an absolute crisis hits. As in any business, sound operational practice requires planning to ensure the resources needed to fulfill our obligations are available.
“Eventually” isn’t good enough when businesses are making location decisions today and families are facing higher bills now.
Others say private generators bear construction risk, not ratepayers. But ratepayers bear enormous risks right now — potential power loss, businesses relocating to states with dependable power, job losses and diminished economic competitiveness. Pennsylvania can continue to debate whether markets or regulations are superior in theory. Or we can acknowledge that, in reality, we need flexible tools that prioritize what matters most: keeping the
Andrew
lights on and costs down for the people we serve.
Pennsylvania’s strength has always been pragmatism over ideology. Our energy leadership hasn’t come from adherence to any single approach or sticking to what has always been done. We look for new solutions to meet challenges as they arise. To protect families and businesses, Pennsylvania needs the flexibility to combine
competitive energy markets with strategic utility backstops. That’s why we’re sounding the alarm now. The status quo appears to be, “Let the markets work.” That’s not leadership. That’s gambling with Pennsylvania’s economic future.
Andrew Tubbs is the president and CEO of the Energy Association of Pennsylvania.