Linn, Singh selected to lead Avon Grove School Board in 2026
The Avon Grove School Board welcomed two new members and selected a new leadership team for 2026 during the recent reorganization meeting at the Avon Grove Intermediate School Audion. The meeting began with two new board members— Natalie Ortega-Moran, Ed. D., and Katie Leonard— taking the oath of office for the first time as school board members. Also taking
the oath of office were Bill Wood and Ruchira Singh, who were both reelected to the board in the November general election.
Once the oath of office was administered, the nine members of the school board set out to select a president and vice president for the next year.
Longtime board member Bonnie Wolff nominated Dorothy Linn, Ed. D., for the position of president.
There were no other nominations, or public comment, and the board then unanimously voted in support of Linn.
Linn thanked her colleagues for selecting her to once again serve as president.
Next, the board set out to select a vice president, and two board members were nominated—longtime school board member Herman Engel and Singh.
Singh secured the five votes necessary to secure the nomination, and she will serve as the board vice president for 2026.
The full school board now includes Linn, Singh, Wolff, Engel, Wood, OrtegaMoran, Leonard, Ken Roark, and Nick Taylor.
The school board reorganization meeting also included a brief discussion about a motion to approve Continued on Page 2A
‘He made us for joy’...1B
90-year-old reminisces about Oxford’s
By Betsy Brewer Brantner Contributing Writer
Virginia Poff, or Ginny as she is known to her friends, recently turned 90 and couldn’t help but reminisce about how Oxford used to be.
“Oxford was once a very busy place,” Poff remembered. “There were stores everywhere, there were restaurants, and even bus service.”
Some people slow down before they reach their 90th year, but Ginny still comes to Oxford Borough Council meetings and she is still involved with the Redmen’s Club. She was also very involved with Union Fire Company for many years. She still is a contributing member of the community
past
and somewhat of a local historian. Anything you want to know about the town’s history, chances are she can answer most questions. There’s certainly nothing wrong with her memory, and she can still recite what stores were in town when she was growing up.
“Down Market Street was Newberry’s, Silversteins, Collins and the fire company was once there. On Third [Street] you had the 5 & 10, the A &P, banks on two corners, plus Sophers, Jay Dees, Charles Shoe Stores, a hardware store, Western Auto.”
She could continue naming stores in Oxford’s downtown. Oxford was certainly bustling when she was born on October 28, 1935.
Continued on Page 2A
Revive,
Kennett Area Park Authority initiates campaign to create WaterWorks complex
Courtesy image A community education building is just one of the several ideas planned for the development of the WaterWorks complex, which is being developed by the Kennett Area Park Authority, which is conducting a $7.2
By Richard L. Gaw Staff Writer
From the time The Kennett Area Park Authority (KAPA) first established its partnership with the Friends of Anson B. Nixon Park, the 106 acres of nature was transformed into a gem of walking trails, music and performance, recreation and community events.
Over the past two decades, Anson B. Nixon
Park has become a destination for runners and walkers, families, schoolchildren, gardeners, frisbee golfers and those equipped with fishing poles who cast their lines and their luck into two ponds and several streams. Purely on the generosity of community and individual support, these two groups have been given the necessary tools they need to turn mere space into a realized vision.
The work to further transform the park, however, is not done.
Recently, KAPA and Friends of Anson B. Nixon Park launched a $7.2 million campaign to restore the park’s historic WaterWorks complex, which is made up of structures that once served as the center of Kennett Square’s public water system from 1876 to 1984 and whose ownership was transferred to KAPA
Continued on Page 3A
Preparations are already underway for Christmas in July
Applications for crafters are set to go out in mid-January
By Betsy Brewer Brantner Contributing Writer
Christmas may be over, but for crafters the work is just beginning. Already, Ware Village is sending out emails to crafters who will be signing up to sell their goods at the popular annual Christmas In July event, which will take place this year on Saturday, July 18. Christmas in July takes
place from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Pavilion at Vista Ridge. Signs will be posted the day of the event. Christmas in July is held by the Women’s Auxiliary to raise money to enrich the lives of people in the Ware Health Center.
For instance, during the COVID-19 pandemic, the auxiliary purchased five iPads so that the residents could use them to FaceTime with families and friends.
Alice Templeton, the president of the auxiliary, remembered how difficult the pandemic was for residents.
“It was heartbreaking to see how residents and loved ones missed each other through COVID,” she said. “One of the things the auxiliary did was purchase iPads for residents in the health center. At least with the iPads, residents, family and friends could FaceTime each other.”
Carol Nelson is the chair for Christmas in July, and she said this year’s activities will mark the 10th anniversary of the event.
Templeton started Christmas in July and has been involved for all 10 years. Since it is a 10-year anniversary, there will be some surprises this year.
The Christmas in July event is one of the best craft shows in the area and
features a variety of crafts, food, and entertainment. It’s an opportunity to find unique crafts and gifts and maybe start the Christmas shopping early. There will be a preview party the night before the event that will be held for residents from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Ware Mansion. There will be a charge of $10 for socializing and refreshments. There will
Photo by Chris Barber
The Cardone kids of Unionville stop to look at the model trains in the window of Mrs. Robinson’s Tea Shop on State Street in Kennett Square. Owner Marlene Robinson puts the trains on display every Christmas season. She said the trains came from her husband and the houses and buildings around the trains are of her creation.
Courtesy photo
The Avon Grove School Board includes Dorothy Linn, Ruchira Singh, Bonnie Wolff, Herman Engel, Bill Wood, Natalie Ortega-Moran, Katie Leonard, Ken Roark, and Nick Taylor.
capital campaign.
Poff...
Continued from Page 1A
There were no malls then or a medical center. Doctors and dentists were on Locust Street. What some may find hard to believe is that there
was a bus service then, which picked people up in a building where Neff Physical Therapy is now located. Many people took the bus to work back then. Poff and her parents moved around in Oxford.
At one time, she lived on Mt. Pleasant Avenue, on Second Street and then of Fifth Street.
Poff attended GoldeyBeacom and when she graduated from there she worked for an insurance company in Wilmington. Like many other Oxfordians, she took the bus to and from college and work.
From 1939 to 1945, World War II was going on and Oxford was open all night. The war brought a mix of people to the town. Service members worked at the Bainbridge Naval Training Center and the Aberdeen Proving Ground, for Army Ordinance Testing. The military members came to town when they could. Defense Women, those women who worked in defense plants making munitions as part of the war effort, also came from all over the country. It was an interesting mix with the large farming population in and around Oxford at that time.
Poff was four years old when World War II start-
ed and almost a teenager when it ended. She has seen many changes in the town in the decades since.
Poff was a babysitter for many years, and still hears from some of the children that she watched. Many teachers in the Oxford Area School District took their children to her.
“I think the bypass hurt the town some,” Poff said.
“Oxford is going in a new direction now.” She is concerned about the traffic issues.
“I never thought we would have so much traffic coming through town,” she said.
Poff believes it is a struggle for older people living in town.
“Taxes are going up for people on fixed incomes.
That’s one of the reasons I attend borough council meetings,” she explained.
“I like to see where our tax dollars go.”
Now at 90, she doesn’t have any regrets.
Avon Grove School Board...
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a list of meeting dates, places and times for school board meetings to be conducted in accordance with laws required under the Sunshine Act.
The Avon Grove School Board is considering the possibility of changing the structure of some of the committees that board members serve on. There will be more discussions about the structure of committees at an upcoming board retreat, and if any changes are undertaken, they will be shared
“I’ve done all the things on my bucket list,” she said. “I’ve even been to the Bahamas a couple of times.”
She hopes to make it to the next Redmen’s Convention in Altoona.
Ninety years of activity may have slowed her down a little, but she has not stopped—and she has no plans to do so.
publicly and new meeting dates and times will be advertised.
Linn concluded the reorganization meeting by welcoming the newly elected board members and welcoming back the two newly re-elected board members.
“We are so looking forward to having you on the board and working together as a team,” Linn said. The next business meeting of the Avon Grove School Board will take place at 6 p.m. on Thursday, January 22 at the Avon Grove Intermediate School Audion.
If she can find a ride, she plans to continue to come to borough council meetings. Age won’t stop her.
“I’m still a part of the community,” she said.
“Ninety is just a number!”
She enjoyed the birthday party her daughter had for her and said, “I was just sorry I didn’t get around to talk with everyone at the party.”
Chesco Connect drives into the future with propane buses
The Chester County Department of Community Transit has begun replacing existing gasoline-powered Chesco Connect buses with new vehicles powered by propane.
According to Chester County CEO David Byerman, the move to new vehicles aligns with key priorities in the county’s Climate Action Plan and Strategic Plan.
“When our County Commissioners approved the Chester County Climate Action Plan in late 2021, they established a vision for a transportation future that combines sustainability with cost efficiency,” Byerman said. “These new vehicles will help realize the Strategic Plan’s goals of preserving environmental gains by reducing greenhouse gas emissions,
New vehicles will save money, reduce pollution
while also saving taxpayer dollars.”
Propane-powered vehicles provide a cost-effective and environmentally friendly alternative to gas, offering lower operating costs and dramatic emission reductions.
According to Todd Mouw, executive vice president of ROUSH CleanTech, developers of the Chesco Connect buses’ technology, the new vehicles will reduce air pollution from sulfur oxide, nitrogen oxide, and carbon dioxide.
“This deployment marks a meaningful step for Chester County Department of Community Transit in adopting cleaner, more sustainable transportation,” said Mouw. “By integrating propane-powered buses into their fleet, they are setting an example of how
transit agencies can reduce emissions and operating costs while continuing to serve their communities effectively.”
According to a 2024 study by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, propane vehicles can achieve firstyear fuel and maintenance savings of approximately $20,000 per vehicle.
Gene Suski, the director of the Chester County Department of Community Transit, looks forward to the operational savings.
“We anticipate major cost advantages,” said Suski. “Expenses on fuel, fluids, and filters could be reduced by up to 50 percent compared to gas-powered vehicles, and our maintenance and downtime costs will drop as well. This is an exciting step into the future of transportation.”
Chester County has placed seven new propane buses into service already, with another nine expected to join the fleet in February of 2026.
Chesco Connect is the
Kennett Square Borough sets dates for strategic planning sessions
Every two years, Kennett Square Borough officials coordinate strategic planning sessions to listen to residents, business owners, and community leaders in a collaborative format. The discussions at these sessions guide the borough’s “roadmap” document, a plan of action for the next two years.
Kennett Square Borough
will hold strategic planning sessions on Monday, Jan. 12, 2026 and Tuesday, Jan. 13, 2026 at 6 p.m. at Borough Hall at 600 S. Broad Street. These sessions are very important, and borough residents, business owners, and community stakeholders are encouraged to attend one of these sessions. The feedback that borough offi-
cials from these discussions will help improve and influence the community over the next two years.
Kennett Square Borough is also seeking individuals who might be interested in serving on a board or commission. The borough has more than one dozen boards and commissions, which span diverse issues, roles, and missions. Several boards have, or will have, upcoming vacancies including the Historic
Architecture Review Board (HARB), the Planning Commission, and Zoning Hearing Board (ZHB), among others.
Kennett Square Borough Hall will be closed on Wednesday, Dec. 31 and Thursday, Jan. 1 and will reopen on Friday, Jan. 2 at 8:30 a.m.
The first Kennett Square Borough Council meeting of 2026 will take place at 7 p.m. on Monday, Jan. 5 at at Borough Hall.
county’s community transit program, specializing in door-to-door shared ride transportation for residents of Chester County.
According to their annual report, more than 141,000
Christmas
in July...
Continued from Page 1A
also be door prizes and for entertainment the Train Club will have a train show. After the socializing, residents can preview the crafts at the Pavilion at Vista Ridge from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. without crowds and get a first look everything that is available.
On Saturday, there will be a Retro Santa Shop where residents can donate Christmas decorations that will be for sale. The Chesapeake Brass Band will be performing that day and the Train Club will also have a display.
Templeton, a craft-
trips were provided to county residents during the 2024/2025 fiscal year. This averages to 556 rides per day, with nearly 1.8 million service miles traveled during the year.
er herself, knew a lot of crafters so it wasn’t hard to find them. The first craft show had 18 crafters, but the event has grown considerably since. Last year’s event had 52 crafters. They also invite service groups from the Ware campus to come in and participate. There is a vendor selling educational toys, too. There will be a specialized food court, Loopy Knitters, Quilters from Ware, Jim Kirk with his Scottish shortbreads, plus numerous outside crafters. Applications for crafters will go out in mid-January. If you are interested, you can email cij.ware@gmail.com for more information.
Courtesy photo
Virginia Poff is pictured enjoying her 90th birthday party that her family held for her.
Courtesy photo
The Chester County Department of Community Transit has begun replacing existing gasoline-powered Chesco Connect buses with new vehicles powered by propane.
WaterWorks...
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in 1990. The campaign also includes raising a $2 million endowment for the operation of the park, given that only one-third of the park’s funding comes from municipal support.
Currently underway, the campaign is an effort to create a new heritage for these buildings where design meets purpose and form meets function. The four-year project – which began in 2024 and saw the upgrade of the Pole Barn – will include the creation of education and wellness resource classrooms; multipurpose rooms with HVAC and kitchen facilities; a Waterworks Legacy Education Center; a yearround office for KAPA; and a modern Splash Pad and plaza space for visitors.
“When I first began on the board, his whole area belonged to the Department of Public Works, and we told them, ‘These are incredible buildings. We don’t want you to knock them down,’ said KAPA’s past chairman Richard Lyon. “We later conducted an evaluation of the complex and asked, ‘Are these buildings worth saving?’
The answer was ‘Yes.’
“We are also a municipal authority without a proper office or storage, maintaining a 106-acre park without a visitors’ center or sufficient public restrooms, so in order for KAPA to be sustainable, we need a certain amount of this space simply to run the park for business needs.”
In many ways, the reimagining of the Waterworks complex is serving as the second phase of the park’s master plan, which first began in 2013 and saw such improvements as new and safer entranceways, additional parking, a stream restoration project, new playgrounds and pickleball courts, upgrades to the basketball and volleyball courts, the establishment of a dog park, community garden upgrades and the restoration of the park’s soccer fields.
‘Revive, Refresh, Renew’
While the long-term plans are firmly in place for the WaterWorks complex, the short-term goal of finding investors is now front-and-center for its Capital Campaign. Given the title “Revive, Refresh Renew,” it has already
raised several sizable private donations toward its’ $7.2 million goal, of which $5.2 million will be needed to be raised for building costs and infrastructure upgrades for a two-phased project. To date, early fundraising efforts have already received $700,000 in early donations and contributions.
In a campaign letter to potential large-scale investors in the WaterWorks complex, Capital Campaign Board Member Mark Rybarzyk wrote that making a donation to the campaign “would not only transform the park physically, it would set the philanthropic tone for the entire campaign and serve as a powerful example to others,” he wrote. “Whether made as a onetime gift or pledged over a number of years, your investment would directly launch the restoration efforts and generate immediate momentum.”
“We have made great progress so far in the year and a half we’ve spent getting everything order,” Rybarzyk said. “Our anticipation is to raise about 60 to 70 percent of the funding goal and then seeking donations form the community.”
‘This is the place people come to for beauty’
Lyons sees the WaterWorks Project as playing a vital role not just in the future of Anson B. Nixon Park, but for the entire area – celebrating a community of inclusion. He recalled the ribboncutting opening of a new playground adjacent to the WaterWorks complex that took place in 2024.
“The playground was a complicated build for us, but if you go over there and hear the excitement of kids playing, it is all worth it,” he said. “In many places in the world, parks are not always looked upon
as positive, but everyone views Anson B. Nixon Park as positive. We talk about everybody needing affordable housing and food, but this is the place people come to for beauty, and that is a human need that it is available to everybody.”
Perhaps the greatest gift of Anson B. Nixon Park, Rybarzyk said, is that the 170,000 visitors who visit the park per year is a celebration of the community’s diversity.
“Anson B. Nixon Park is open for everyone for every socio-economic background, and our goal is to expand this park as an educational bridge to their lives, and one that adds
value to their lives,” said Rybarzyk. “The truth is that there are very limited sources for teaching agriculture and horticulture anymore, and with this reimagination of this planned complex, we want to encourage everyone to go outside and play – to give them the opportunity to put a shovel in the dirt and begin to see the fruits of their labor.”
To learn more about the WaterWorks Campaign, email mark@ansonbnixonpark.org or visit www. ansonbnixonpark.org/ waterworks.
To contact Staff Writer Richard L. Gaw, email rgaw@chestercounty.com.
Chester Water Authority board calls on DELCORA to cancel sale to Aqua
Noël Brandon, the chair of the Chester Water Authority (CWA) board, called on DELCORA to cancel the long-stalled 2019 agreement to sell its sewer system to Aqua Pennsylvania, citing changed circumstances, massive projected rate increases, and Aqua’s proposed acquisition by American Water. Brandon sent a direct letter to the Delaware County Regional Water Quality Control Authority (DELCORA) board.
A press release from the Chester Water Authority board stated, “Six years after DELCORA signed an Asset Purchase Agreement with Aqua, the sale has still not closed. In that time, every major justification cited in 2019 to support the sale has become moot. The costly tunnel project DELCORA sought to
avoid is no longer needed. DELCORA’s concern that it would face an unaffordable renewal of its contract with the Philadelphia Water Department has proven unfounded. DELCORA renewed that contract in 2023 on highly favorable terms that extend well beyond 2028. The ‘rate stabilization trust’ promoted by Aqua and DELCORA as a safeguard against rate shocks is illusory and unenforceable, offering no real protection to ratepayers.
“While the original rationale for the sale has collapsed, the harm to ratepayers has only intensified. DELCORA customers currently pay approximately $33.28 per month for average residential sewer service. Aqua charges $103.09 per month for the same usage—more than a 300% increase. If the sale
closes, DELCORA ratepayers will be forced onto Aqua’s substantially higher rates, with ongoing compounding increases and no corresponding improvement in service.”
The statement continued, “The risk has grown following Aqua’s 2025 announcement that it intends to be acquired by American Water. American Water’s comparable residential rate is $133.16 per month, more than 30% higher than Aqua’s and over 400% higher than DELCORA’s current rates. If American Water acquires Aqua and then completes the acquisition of DELCORA, ratepayers will ultimately be shifted to these higher rates. In addition, American Water currently has a rate case in front of the Public Utility Commission (PUC). If
granted, rates will soar even higher.
“These outcomes were never contemplated in 2019 and are plainly against the public interest,” noted Brandon. “A 300%, 400%, or greater rate increase for the same service cannot be justified.”
The proposed Aqua–American merger creates a clear opportunity for DELCORA to walk away from the deal. The 2019 agreement prohibits assignment to American Water and allows DELCORA to terminate the contract upon a “material adverse event.” Aqua’s failure to close the transaction after six years, combined with the prospect of American Water’s merger and higher rates, constitutes a “material adverse event.”
CWA is urging DELCORA’s board to
Legislation to protect minors from sexually explicit
AI
deepfakes passes State Senate in broader package
State Sen. James Andrew Malone’s legislation to protect minors from sexually explicit AI deepfakes passed the Senate unanimously as part of SB 1050, which addresses reporting of child sexual abuse materials generated by AI. Sen. Malone’s initial legislation aimed to close a critical reporting gap by requiring mandated reporters, such as school personnel, to immediately report all incidents of children sharing intimate or sexually explicit images of other children to the appropriate authorities, including sexually explicit
AI deepfakes. His legislation was added to SB 1050 as an amendment on Oct. 28, prior to the final vote. “I’m pleased to see this legislation move forward,” said Sen. Malone. “I came here to solve problems and work with anyone willing to help me serve people in Lancaster. My amendment to SB 1050 closes a major reporting gap that harmed kids in a school back in Lancaster. I’m glad to have found a bipartisan vehicle to advance it and protect kids from sexually explicit AI deepfakes moving forward. I’m also thankful to my Republican colleagues
for working with me, and I look forward to seeing this pass the House with bipartisan support.”
Sen. Malone introduced his legislation, SB 1034, following outreach from victims and families involved in a 2023 incident at Lancaster Country Day School. At the time, 48 female students and 12 other girls were victims of sexually explicit deepfake images generated by two male students using AI. School officials were made aware of the abuse but did not report it to the appropriate authorities for several months, revealing
a critical gap in Title 23, Pennsylvania’s mandatory reporting law. Under Title 23 in Pennsylvania, all school personnel are required to report child abuse. However, children sharing sexually explicit material of other children, such as sexually explicit AI deepfakes, does not currently fall under the statute’s definition of abuse. Sen. Malone’s reporting fix would change that.
Now, as an amendment to SB 1050, Sen. Malone’s update to Title 23 advances to the House for consideration.
cancel the agreement and to file a protest with the Pennsylvania PUC, which is currently accepting public comment on the Aqua–American merger (Docket # A-20253058927). All ratepayers of DELCORA and all townships and boroughs that use DELCORA are encouraged to make a formal complaint or comments on the application. In addition to higher rates, privatization of the sewer services would eliminate all local public accountability.
Margo Woodacre, a New Garden Township resident and current Aqua sewer ratepayer said, “Aqua’s takeover meant higher bills and no one local to turn to for help. I do not wish our fate on DELCORA’s ratepayers. It’s a constant fight for fairness and transparency with a pri-
vate multi-billion dollar company that answers to CEOs and shareholders. DELCORA’s board must do right by their ratepayers and cancel this sale.” DELCORA, a public entity, would be governed by a for-profit monopoly accountable to shareholders, not a locally appointed public board of ratepayers as it is now. CWA, which is a DELCORA ratepayer and currently assists in resolving customer shutoff issues, would no longer play a role, leaving customers to deal solely with a private utility.
“The circumstances have fundamentally changed,” Brandon concluded. “DELCORA should act in the best interests of ratepayers and the community, cancel this ill-advised agreement, and keep DELCORA in public hands.”
Courtesy image
The WaterWorks complex will also include a public plaza, a public office a modern splash pad, among other amenities.
State lawmakers announce investment in Londonderry Township Roads Department
Londonderry Township
was recently awarded state funding to construct a new salt shed for its road department, an investment that will help improve operations, save taxpayer dollars, and protect the environment.
State Sen. Carolyn Comitta and State Rep. John Lawrence worked together to secure the $150,000 investment from the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development’s Local Share Account Program.
“This funding will allow the municipality to construct a new winter storm materials storage building adjacent
to the existing township facility. The new building will include separated storage bays designed to house multiple aggregates used to improve roadway conditions and traction during winter storms,” said Darryl M. King, Londonderry Road Master. “The entire staff at Londonderry is thrilled to see this goal become a reality. We are grateful for the extraordinary efforts of Senator Carolyn Comitta’s office and Representative John Lawrence’s office in securing this investment.”
The new, four-bay salt storage shed will replace the existing two-bay shed,
which is structurally failing and unable to accommodate delivery trucks. The new shed will feature reinforced concrete floors and walls, metal siding, and a paved landing in front of the facility for more efficient cleanup. It will also be high enough to accommodate deliveries, improving cleanup and preventing salt residue from entering the stormwater system.
According to King, the average 140 to 200 tons of salt used by Londonderry Township each year is expected to decrease by up to one-third thanks to increased storage efficiency
and improved protection from the elements in the new shed.
“When we work together, we can get things done,” Comitta said. “I was proud to work with Rep. Lawrence and Londonderry Township officials to secure this investment – one that will help ensure safer roads, cleaner streams, and lower costs for years to come. I also want to thank all of the people and snowplow operators who help keep our roads safe and clear of snow, ice, and debris throughout the winter.”
“During my time in office, I have tried to focus on
improvements to core local infrastructure - much of which has been neglected for far too long,” said Rep. Lawrence. “I commend the forward-looking approach of the Londonderry Township supervisors with the salt shed replacement project. This improvement will save taxpayer dollars in the long term and ensure better, more responsive service in clearing roads during the winter months. I am very glad to work with Senator Comitta to ensure this project can move forward.”
Londonderry will use the LSA funds for construction and engineering costs.
The total project cost is $264,207.
The Local Share Account program is designed to distribute funds derived from gaming revenue to support community and economic development projects. Eligible applicants include counties, municipalities, municipal authorities, economic development agencies, redevelopment authorities, land banks, and councils of government. Eligible projects must improve the quality of life of community citizens and be owned and maintained by an eligible applicant or a nonprofit organization.
YMCA of Greater Brandywine earns national re-certification as a Medical Fitness Facility
The YMCA of Greater Brandywine announced that all branches in its association have earned re-certification as Certified Medical Fitness Facilities by the Medical Fitness Association (MFA).
MFA certification is a prestigious national distinction awarded to organizations that meet the highest standards for safety, quality and clinical integration in health and wellness programs.
Re-certification affirms YGBW’s commitment to delivering evidence-based programs, safe exercise environments and collaborative care models that support the health and well-being of individuals across Chester County. YGBW remains one of a select group of facilities nationwide; the only YMCA organization in the country–and the only organization
in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania — to achieve and maintain this certification.
“Medical Fitness certification is a rigorous and comprehensive process,” said Veronica Lopez, RN, who serves as the VP of Health Strategies at YGBW. “Achieving re-certification demonstrates our unwavering commitment to excellence in helping members of our community recover from illness or injury – and our desire to prevent chronic disease in our community.”
MFA certification provides assurance that YGBW programs are structured, supervised and continuously evaluated to support participants’ health—whether managing a chronic condition, transitioning from clinical care or building lifelong healthy habits.
“The MFA certification elevates our ability to serve our community with deeper purpose and greater impact,” said Bertram L. Lawson II, president and CEO of YGBW. “As the only YMCA in the nation and fitness organization in Pennsylvania to earn this designation, I’m proud to lead our movement forward in this important work.”
The YMCA of Greater Brandywine is a leading non-profit organization committed to building community, serving more than
90,000 people throughout Chester County. YGBW operates nine Branches and Program Centers and one Fit Truk, providing life-changing programs to nurture the potential of every child, promote healthy living for all and foster social responsibility. YGBW raises funds to provide financial assistance to those unable to pay the standard rates. In 2024, $2.5 million was provided to more than 11,000 individuals to ensure they had access to childcare, summer camp, programs and memberships at YGBW. To learn more, visit ymcagbw.org.
Courtesy photos
YGBW members participate in LIVESTRONG, a free cancer survivorship program designed to rebuild strength and confidence over 12 weeks.
Bertram L. Lawson II, president and CEO, receives the results of his EVOLT 360 Body Composition scan – integrating his fitness goals with tangible health outcomes.
Submissions of hope
“Nothing in the world is more dangerous than sincere ignorance and conscientious stupidity.”
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
Alyssa Reynoso-Morris is an Afro-Latine/x Dominican and Puerto Rican award-winning storyteller, author and motivational speaker. Multicultural and bilingual, she works with students, teachers, and nonprofits to tell compelling stories that inspire readers and writers, through interactive author visits, encouraging manuscript critique services, and knowledgeable author development consultation.
On Dec. 18, Reynoso-Morris was a guest at Elk Ridge Elementary School, where she shared her Puerto Rican and Dominican heritage with the schoolchildren and read her book, Plátanos Are Love. The book is a beautiful love letter to the power of her Latinx heritage and tells the story about the ways plantains shape culture, community, and family – all told through a young girl’s experiences in the kitchen with her abuela. With every pop of the tostones, mash of the mangú, and sizzle of the maduros, a little girl learns that plátanos are her history, they are her culture, and—most importantly—they exist as symbols of love.
On Dec. 19, just one day removed from ReynosoMorris’ visit, one writer used an Oxford Area School District online platform to excoriate the school district’s Superintendent Dr. David Woods “and the radical liberals” on the district’s school board for inviting Reynoso-Morris, in what she called a commitment “to immersing your children in through desensitization.”
The writer referred to Reynoso-Morris as “a radical left activist grooming elementary children,” and called the author’s visit “psychological warfare.”
The writer was not alone.
Another writer wrote, “I would NOT want my child exposed to ANY sexual preference or practice. It is NOT up to the school to educate our children on these matters. It’s the responsibility of the parents. Elementary or any other age school children DO NOT need to be taught the acceptance of trans, pan, furry, or any other sexual group. You can call me a bigot, argue with me until our heads explode and you’ll NEVER convince me that ANY of that is “normal.
“I have no problem with not discriminating for sexual preference, but don’t you DARE tell me that it’s ‘normal,’” the writer continued. “It’s not; people with these issues need mental health help.”
The comments rendered by these two individuals did not reflect the majority of the online voices in response to Reynoso-Morris’ visit to Elk Ridge, but it was the short-sided ignorance of these two submissions that continues to magnify across social media. Poignantly - catapulted by the power of the medium - the racism, bigotry, homophobia and fear of some now shines like a statue to the bottom feeding trolls of the American society, whose keyboards have merely come to serve as the conduit to such expression.
These dispatches have become a microcosm for our nation’s growing myopic secularism, its sincere ignorance and its conscientious stupidity. Yet, as we continue to scroll, we begin to read the responses made to these poisonous posts – submissions in the overwhelming majority that denounce the rantings and give clear evidence that the majority of our nation still tilts toward integrity and inclusion.
They are the quiet armies in the night, typing, recoiling from the ugliness, and their responses have become our nation’s submissions of hope.
One such post written in response to the negative comments about Reynoso-Morris’s recent visit to Elk Ridge Elementary School seemed to perfectly encapsulate the emotions expressed by dozens of other writers on the feed.
“Education is not ‘psychological warfare,’” the post read. “It is the process of teaching children how to think, not what to think. Exposure to different cultures and stories builds critical thinking and empathy— skills that are highly valued by universities and future employers. Characterizing educational inclusion as ‘desensitization’ overlooks the academic necessity of preparing students to function in a diverse society.”
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
Why will Route 41 improvements take five years to complete?
Letter to the Editor:
Can someone please tell me (and likely many other area residents) why it will take five years to complete the construction at the Newark Road-Baltimore Pike intersection (story in Chester County Press on
December 10)?
There is no map of proposed improvements, and possible compensation of business owners is barely mentioned. Years ago, road construction in Newark (Delaware) on Elkton Road (now called South Main Street) forced out a very
By John Eichelberger and Andy Dinniman, Pennsylvania state co-chairs, U.S. term limits
Across Pennsylvania— from the farms of Lancaster County to the steel towns of Pittsburgh—one sentiment rings clear: Americans have lost faith in Washington. It’s not hard to see why. Congress has become a symbol of gridlock, partisanship, and self-interest. Decade after decade, the same faces return to Capitol Hill, while the problems that matter most to everyday citizens remain unsolved. If we want to restore trust in our democracy, we need to start with the reform that unites nearly everyone, regardless of party: congressional term limits.
Pennsylvanians take pride in being plainspoken, hardworking, and pragmatic. We expect results, not excuses. Yet in Washington, career politicians spend more time securing their next election than solving problems. Public service has become a profession rather than a calling. Many enter office with the intent to serve the people—but after decades of re-election campaigns, they end up serving the system.
This culture of careerism
erodes faith in government. When voters see Congress members staying in power for 30 or 40 years, collecting perks and pensions while the country struggles, it’s easy to become cynical. And cynicism, over time, becomes disengagement—the slow death of democracy.
Term limits would change that dynamic instantly. They would remind every elected official that leadership is temporary and that the seat they hold belongs to the people, not to them.
Pennsylvania has always been a cradle of democratic innovation. It was here that the Declaration of Independence was signed, and where Benjamin Franklin warned that America would remain a republic “if you can keep it.” That same spirit of accountability and civic duty is woven into our state’s DNA.
Throughout our history, Pennsylvanians have demanded reforms to keep government honest and close to the people—from the early anti-corruption drives of the Progressive Era to bipartisan efforts for campaign finance transparency. Term limits are a continuation of that legacy.
Trust in Congress hovers at historic lows—often below
good mom-and-pop hardware store from a strip shopping center along the road. I certainly hope this does not happen to the businesses located in proximity to the intersection, especially since the planned renovations are said to take up to four years. My wife and I have been by these businesses numerous times and they are very popular with the locals. I think further explanation and clarification from both the township and PennDOT is in order.
Ron Martin Landenberg
Congressional term limits would restore trust and revive American Democracy
20 percent. That’s a dangerous place for a democracy to be. A government can only function when its citizens believe in its legitimacy. The longer politicians stay in office, the more insulated they become from real life, and the more voters tune out.
Term limits would help reverse that trend. They would send a powerful signal that Washington understands the frustration of the American people and is ready to put principles over privilege. By ensuring regular turnover, we bring accountability back to the system.
Pennsylvania voters understand this intuitively. Polling shows that more than 80% of Americans support term limits, including overwhelming majorities in both parties. It’s one of the few reforms that unites conservatives, moderates, and progressives alike. That kind of unity is rare—and exactly what our country needs.
Of course, we can’t expect Congress to limit its own power. That’s why states like Pennsylvania must lead. Through an Article V Convention limited to proposing term limits, states can bypass Washington’s gridlock and return control to the people.
Already, momentum is building nationwide. Legislators across party lines in several states have introduced and advanced resolutions calling for such a convention. Pennsylvanians can be part of this historic movement by urging our General Assembly to pass a resolution supporting congressional term limits. It’s not a Republican issue or a Democratic issue—it’s a democracy issue. Our founders never intended for public office to be a lifetime appointment. They envisioned citizen legislators who would serve for a time, contribute their talents, and then return to private life. That model worked for generations—and it can work again.
By passing congressional term limits, we can break the cycle of stagnation, restore accountability, and renew faith in our institutions. We can remind Americans that democracy still belongs to them, not to an entrenched political class. Pennsylvania has always been where the American story begins. Let’s make sure it’s also where the renewal of American democracy begins—by standing together to demand term limits for Congress.
The climate emergency brake
Slashing methane emissions now could slow the runaway train of global warming long enough to get our act together. But only if we act
By Daphne Wysham
We often hear about the warming risks of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. But that’s not the only greenhouse gas we need to worry about after this brutally hot summer.
Methane levels in the atmosphere are still rising at a record pace, despite pledges by 159 countries to cut methane emissions 30 percent by 2030.
In fact, atmospheric methane concentrations climbed faster in the last five years than at any time since measurements began. This could push the planet toward a potentially irreversible “Hothouse Earth” state, with temperatures 7-10°F (4-5 °C) higher than preindustrial levels.
Now, the good news: methane is short-lived. Unlike carbon dioxide, which lingers for centuries, methane breaks down in the atmosphere in roughly a decade. If we slash methane emissions now, global warming could slow by as much as 0.4°C (0.7°F) by 2050.
Slashing methane is the climate’s emergency brake,
which could slow the runaway train of warming long enough for us to get other greenhouse gas emissions under control.
Scientific bodies, including the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, affirm that cutting methane is one of the fastest, most effective ways to slow climate change. But that requires action now — and so far, the major methane emitters aren’t acting.
Oil, gas, and coal companies continue to vent and flare methane, even though plugging leaks is one of the cheapest, easiest climate actions available. And Big Meat and Dairy are borrowing from the tobacco playbook — denying, delaying, and distracting — even as livestock operations pump out methane on an industrial scale.
To change this, we need a coordinated global campaign to regulate methane, both in the U.S. and abroad.
The European Union has led the way with groundbreaking methane rules that could slash global oil and gas methane emissions by around 30 percent. Starting in 2027, the EU rules man-
date strict leak detection, reporting, and new methane-intensity standards for imported fuels.
But they’re already coming under pressure from the Trump administration, which is pushing a massive energy trade package totaling $750 billion in U.S. energy purchases. Industry lobbyists argue that EU methane regulations are a “nontariff barrier” to U.S. LNG exports. They’re seeking to roll back the EU’s methane standards in order to sell more of this ultra methane-intensive fuel to Europe.
In Europe, Ukraine may offer an alternative. It can power Europe three times over with its vast wind energy potential. That’s why groups like Elected Officials to Protect America are calling for a new “Marshall Plan” to help Ukraine become a clean energy shield for Europe. State and local governments in the U.S. can also act.
Building on California’s pioneering methane rules, the Subnational Methane Action Coalition (SMAC) brings together states,
provinces, and local governments around the world to cut methane emissions under their own responsibility. From the U.S., California, Colorado, and Maryland have all joined. Global action on methane is essential — and we need to start now. The 2021 Global Methane Pledge promised to cut methane 30 percent by 2030. But halfway to the deadline, emissions are still going up. Solutions exist. Technology to detect and fix leaks is available. Policies to hold methane emitters accountable are on the table. But time is running short. If we act now, this story could still have a happy ending. Rapid methane cuts now could slow near-term global warming, head off feedback loops, and open the window of time we need to decarbonize.
Daphne Wysham is CEO of Methane Action, coordinator of the Methane Emergency Brake Campaign, and moderator of a Climate Week event on meeting the methane emergency. This op-ed was distributed by OtherWords.org.
Guest Columns
In the Spotlight
‘He
made us for joy’
Fr. Mark Tobin talks about his new role as the parochial administrator at St. Patrick Church in Kennett Square
By Winthrop Rodgers Contributing Writer
It can be hard starting a new job, especially if your job is tending to the spiritual well-being of your neighbors. But this is the task before Fr. Mark Tobin, who took over as parochial administrator at St. Patrick Church in Kennett Square earlier this year.
While this might be a daunting prospect for some, Fr. Tobin has taken it in stride as the latest in a long line of service missions in life, including his time in Navy Special Operations before realizing a vocation and joining the priesthood.
“A desire for adventure was deeply ingrained in me. In fact, I feel like God didn’t make us to live dull, meaningless, purposeless lives,” Fr. Tobin told the Chester County Press in an interview. “He made us for joy.”
In some ways, coming to St. Patrick Church is a homecoming for Tobin, as he was raised in nearby New London Township. After graduating from Avon Grove High School, he decided to join the Navy. He served two tours in Iraq in the 2000s as a Special Warfare Combatant Crewman (SWCC) as part of an elite unit that operates small and fast boats on rivers and coastal areas.
“We’re the ‘boat guys,’” he explained. “That was a great adventure. I have a lot of fond memories of my time in the military. We formed a real
brotherhood.”
After separating from the service, he moved back to Pennsylvania and, using the GI Bill, enrolled in West Chester University, where he studied business marketing. At the time he was not particularly religious.
“It never crossed my mind” to become a priest, he admitted. “All through my time in the military, my faith didn’t really mean a whole lot to me. It was deeper than just not practicing my faith. It was that I was not really a man of prayer at all.”
He had planned to use his degree to start a business, perhaps related to one of his many hobbies, which he said included playing drums, photography, golf, and outdoor activities like kayaking and fishing.
But during his time at the university, he began to feel disconnected from other students. Part of it was that he was older and had more life experience than his classmates right out of high school. But there were other feelings at play.
“I began to realize just kind of how much things had changed in my life without really even realizing it,” he said. As he looked for meaning, “some of the deeper questions started to arise.”
He said that at this moment of dislocation:
“God met me with a very profound sort of grace and mercy.” This became a vocation and a considered decision to join the priesthood.
“It was a real struggle. It was a real battle because of the sacrifices and my unworthiness. All of those things came to the surface, but I also had a deep desire for it,” Fr. Tobin explained.
“I saw in it a new mission and a new adventure,” he added. He entered St. Charles Borromeo Seminary in 2014 and studied philosophy and divinity. He was ordained as a priest in 2021 and continued his work within the Archdiocese of Philadelphia. He was first sent to Mary, Mother of the Redeemer, a large church in Montgomery County. He learned about his new position earlier this year and
arrived in Kennett Square in June.
While this may be a big change for Fr. Tobin, it also represents a transition for St. Patrick Church as well. He replaced Rev. Chris Rogers, who had been pastor at the church for ten years and now leads St. Joseph Parish in Downingtown.
So far, St. Patrick, which has about 5,000 parishioners, has welcomed him into its community with open arms.
“I have big shoes to fill as they, as they say,” he said, referring to Rev. Rogers.
“But the priesthood is something to step into… and get your hands dirty and figure all of that out
with the help and support of the people. I have found a lot of support from the people in the pews [and from] my staff, who have really been helpful. My style is going to be different than my predecessor. So, they’re coming to know me.”
In some very local ways, he is already well in step with his new parish.
“I just had a mushroom pizza,” he said laughing. “It’s nice having mushroom farmers in the pews.”
He also brings his military background into his work in informal ways, like recently joining a veterans’ breakfast at the local VFW hall.
For now, he is keeping a
keen eye out for where he is needed and how he can use his background and relative youth — Fr. Tobin is just 39 years old — to minister to people in his parish and beyond.
“This area is growing. There are younger adults in this area, people our age and our generation, who aren’t really church goers,” he said, adding that he hopes to encourage those who have drifted away from the church to take another look.
“I know what it’s like not to practice, and I know what it’s like to be called and I just know how rewarding it is,” Tobin said.
Surprise gift from Santa brings holiday magic to local family
The spirit of the season was present at the Jennersville YMCA on Dec. 20 when a local family received a heartfelt surprise during the Jennersville YMCA’s annual Breakfast with Santa event.
As families gathered to enjoy breakfast, holiday activities and time with Santa Claus, one family was unexpectedly presented with a special gift — a bicycle — delivered straight from Santa himself. The moment, filled with joy and emotion, was made possible through a partnership between the YMCA of Greater Brandywine (YGBW) and Giving Bikes Back, a local nonprofit dedicated to spreading hope through the gift of bicycles.
“I am nearly 70 years old, living on a fixed income with temporary guardianship of my two grandchildren,” said Joanne, matriarch of the family. “Giving Bikes Back and the YMCA heard that Emmett would benefit from a tricycle for leg strengthening and physical therapy goals. They helped connect us with Santa and all worked together to
at the Jennersville YMCA.
ensure that Emmett would receive a brand-new tricycle to help him reach his potential. And, they are not leaving his sister without surprise gifts as well.”
“I am giving my all to help Emmett and Savannah become all that they can be – and have benefited from an amazing village of support – including Grand Family Connections, the Chester County Intermediate Unit, our school district, my father, my sister and other neighbors. I couldn’t be more grateful,” she said.
light up reminds us why community partnerships and generosity matter so much, especially during the holidays.”
“Breakfast with Santa is a magical event, but moments like this truly capture the spirit of the season,” said Nic Legere, district executive director for YGBW.
“Seeing a child’s face
“At Giving Bikes Back, we believe everyone deserves access to reliable, affordable transportation,” said Lindsay Remington, founder and executive director of Giving Bikes Back. “Our mission is simple – to repair and redistribute donated bicycles to adults and children in need, helping them get to where they need to go and giving them a little more freedom, fitness and fun along the way.
Partnering with organizations like YGBW allows us to reach families where community and belonging already thrive. We were overjoyed to help Santa deliver a dose of kindness that defines the season.”
To learn more about the YMCA of the Greater Brandywine, visit ymcagbw.org.
Photo by Winthrop Rodgers
Fr. Mark Tobin took over as parochial administrator at St. Patrick Church in Kennett Square earlier this year.
Staff from Giving Bikes Back and the YMCA of Greater Brandywine join Emmett’s family for a holiday photo at the Breakfast with Santa event
Courtesy photos
Emmett excitedly opens his surprise gift from Santa.
JOHN ROGER GREEN
John Roger Green, of Nottingham, passed away on Dec. 27, 2025 at Lancaster General Hospital. He was 82.
He was the husband of Nyrell A. Duncan Green.
Born in Fulton Township, Lancaster County, he was the son of the late John W. and Lillian Rebecca Kyle Green.
Roger was a member of Wrightsdale Baptist Church in Peach Bottom.
Roger began his working career building bridges for Bear Creek for 20 years and later was employed by Cedar Hill Quarry in Peach Bottom for the remainder of his working years.
Roger enjoyed the outdoors. Roger and his wife, Nyrell, spent many years camping at Muddy Run. He loved being on the lawnmower.
More recently, he picked up coloring as a hobby and he shared his pictures with everyone. His true loves were his wife, Nyrell, and his dog Mitzi.
He is survived by his wife, and his siblings, Dolores (Dorty) Sheetz (John G. Jr. “Jack”) of Columbia, Doris Crotti (Lloyd) of Peach Bottom, Richard Green (Myrtle Kennedy) of Peach Bottom and Dorothy Dubree (Sherman) of Peach Bottom, and a sister-in-law, Karen Green of Elkton, Md.
He was preceded in death by two brothers, Dennis A Green (Buck) and Warren Eugene Green.
Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, Jan. 2, 2026 at Wrightsdale Baptist Church at 310 Little Britain Road in Peach Bottom, where friends and family may visit from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Wrightsdale Baptist Church Benevolence Fund.
Arrangements are being handled by the Edward L. Collins, Jr. Funeral Home, Inc. in Oxford. Online condolences may be made at www.elcollinsfuneralhome.com.
St.
Avondale Presbyterian Church
420 Pennsylvania Avenue
610.268.2919
www.avondalepc.org
KENNETT SQUARE
Bible Evangelical Church of Kennett Square
500 E. Cypress Street 610.467.1081
www.bibleevangelicalchurch.org
Episcopal Church of the Advent 401 N. Union Street 610.444.4624
www.adventks.org
First Baptist Church of Kennett Square
415 W. State Street
610.444.5320
www.firstbaptistkennettsquare.com
Greater Works Ministries 553 Rosedale Road 610.444.5581 www.gwministries.net
Kennett Square Missionary Church 408 Bayard Road 610.444.0867
www.kennettsquarebaptist.com
Kennett Square Presbyterian Church
211 S. Broad Street
610.444.5255
www.pcks.org
New Garden Memorial U.A.M.E 309 E. Linden Street 610.444.3357 www.uamechurch.org
Second Baptist Church of Kennett Square
132 S. Willow Street 610.444.0885
St. Patrick Catholic Church 212 Meredith Street 610.444.4364
205 Penn Green Road, Landenberg 610.274.8384 www.landenbergchurch.com
Christian Life Center 125 Saginaw Road, New London 610.869.2140 www.CLCFamily.church
New London United Methodist Church 1010 State Road,
Andres Ambriz joins Longwood Gardens as Chief Horticulture & Facilities Officer
Longwood Gardens announced the appointment of Andres Ambriz as Chief Horticulture & Facilities Officer. In this key leadership role, Ambriz will lead a team of more than 200 and guide strategic efforts across horticulture, facilities, capital projects, land management, sustainability, and long-term planning. He is succeeding longtime horticulture and facilities leader Sharon Loving, who is retiring after 43 years of service at Longwood.
Ambriz brings more than 25 years of experience overseeing large-scale facilities, capital projects, and operations across nonprofit and for-profit institutions. Previously, he served as Chief Infrastructure Officer at Space Center Houston, where he oversaw a broad portfolio including capital planning and projects, facilities maintenance, event operations, campus security, and safety and led the development of a
long-term facilities strategic plan.
Prior to his role at Space Center Houston, Ambriz spent 24 years with United Parks and Resorts, formerly SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment, most recently as Vice President of Global Operations. From 2016 to 2022, he served as Operations Director for Global Theme Park Development, leading the design and delivery of new park concepts worldwide, including the launch
of SeaWorld Abu Dhabi in 2023.
“Andres brings exceptional strategic vision, operational expertise, and an essential understanding of multi-site institutions,” said Paul B. Redman, President and Chief Executive Officer of Longwood Gardens.
“His experience will be instrumental as Longwood continues to innovate and advance our mission.”
Ambriz joins Longwood as the organization begins
DCCC signs transfer agreement with Pennsylvania College of Art & Design
Delaware County Community College has signed a new transfer agreement with the Pennsylvania College of Art & Design that will create a smooth and affordable path for DCCC students who have earned an associate of fine arts degree in art-studio, graphic design or photography.
Pennsylvania College of Art & Design is a fouryear, private art college in Lancaster, Pa. that offers bachelor of fine arts degree
programs in digital media, fine art, graphic design, illustration, photography and video. DCCC AFA graduates will receive a guaranteed acceptance and tuition scholarship to Pennsylvania College of Art & Design if they meet the GPA eligibility requirements as indicated in the agreement, which is intended for students attending Pennsylvania College of Art & Design full-time. Nationally, DCCC was
among the early adopters of the AFA degree, which prepares students to either transfer to Bachelor of Fine Arts programs or enter the workforce. DCCC AFA graduates have cultivated careers at leading art centers and worked with national brands, including the Philadelphia Art Museum, the Delaware Contemporary Museum, The New York Times , Gentlemen’s Quarterly, Stoney Clover Lane, Comcast, Banana
Republic and Zaxby.
Delaware County Community College has more than 30 transfer agreements with four-year institutions. For more information, visit dccc.edu/ transfer.
Delaware County Community College is a NASAD-accredited institution in graphic design, art-studio, photography and art foundations programs. For more information, visit dccc.edu/art-design.
contemplating future phases of its long-range, visionary site master plan for the nearly 1,200 acre property in Chester County, following the successful completion of Longwood Reimagined: A New Garden Experience, as well as the stewardship and activation for its site in New Castle County, Del., Longwood at Granogue, a 505-acre cultural land scape in Wilmington.
is to preserve its natural beauty while creating opportunities for community engagement that honor the landscape’s legacy and ecological importance.
Longwood’s vision for Longwood at Granogue
“It is an honor to join Longwood Gardens at this important moment,” said Ambriz. “I look forward to collaborating with the extraordinary staff across Longwood and Longwood at Granogue to shape the spaces and experiences that will inspire guests for generations to come.”
Notice of Self Storage Sale
Please take notice Storage First Kennett Square located at 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. The sale will occur as an online auction via www.storagetreasures.com on 1/13/26 at 10:00 AM.
Estate Of Shirley Williams/ Estate Williams unit #61. This sale may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Certain terms and conditions apply.
ESTATE NOTICE
ESTATE OF LINDA M. FLINN, DECEASED.
Late of East Nottingham Township, 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 SUMMER WARRICK, ADMINISTRATRIX, c/o Attorney: William J. Gallagher, Esq., 17 W. Miner St., West Chester, PA 19382, WILLIAM J. GALLAGHER, MacELREE HARVEY, LTD., 17 W. Miner St, West Chester, PA 19382
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ESTATE NOTICE
ESTATE OF RICHARD J. ZIMMERMAN, SR. a/k/a RICHARD JOHN ZIMMERMAN, SR., DECEASED. Late of West Grove Borough, Chester County, PA. LETTERS TESTAMENTARY on the above Estate have been granted to the undersigned, who request all persons having claims or demands against the estate of the decedent to make known the same and all persons indebted to the decedent to make payment without delay to RICHARD J. ZIMMERMAN, JR., EXECUTOR, 23 Starr Dr., Coatesville, PA 19330,Or to his Attorney: ANITA M. D’AMICO D’AMICO LAW, P.C., 65 S. Third St., Oxford, PA 19363 12p-24-3t
NOTICE
NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING, BOROUGH of OXFORD
The Oxford Borough Council will hold their reorganization meeting and regular business meeting on Monday, January 5, 2026, at 7:00 pm as their first meeting of the new year. This 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 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. By: Pauline Garcia-Allen, Borough Manager 12p-24-3t
PUBLIC NOTICE OF MUNICIPAL ACTION
Pursuant to Section 108 of the Pennsylvania Municipalities Planning Code (“MPC”), notice is hereby given that on December 22, 2025, Council for the Borough of Oxford adopted Ordinance No. 980-2025, amending the Code of the Borough of Oxford, Chapter 27 (entitled “Zoning”) known as the Borough of Oxford Zoning Ordinance of 1986, by deleting and replacing the Chapter, in its entirety, and by amending the Oxford Borough Zoning Map. The full text of Borough of Oxford Ordinance No. 980-2025 can be reviewed by members of the public at the Chester County Law Library, 201 West Market Street, West Chester, Pennsylvania and the Borough Building, located at 1 Octoraro Alley, Oxford, Pennsylvania, during regular business hours. This publication is intended to provide notification of the enactment of an Ordinance. Any appeal or action contesting the validity of Ordinance No. 9802025 based on a procedural defect shall be dismissed, with prejudice, as untimely if not filed within the thirtieth (30th) day following the second publication of this notice. This notice shall not be construed to abrogate, repeal, extend or otherwise modify the time for appeal set forth in §1002-A of the MPC, 53 P.S. §11002-A, and 42 Pa. C.S. §5571.1. This notice is filed on behalf of the Borough of Oxford, Chester County, Pennsylvania. Stacey L. Fuller, Esquire, Oxford Borough Solicitor 12p-24-2t
PUBLIC NOTICE
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN
The New London Township Board of Supervisors with meet January 5th, 2026 at 5:00PM to hold their Organization Meeting, with the Regular Board of Supervisors Meeting to begin immediately following, in the New London Township Building located at 902 State Rd. New London, PA 19390. If you are a person with a disability and require special accommodation to participate in the meeting, please contact the Township at 610-869-8658 no later than 3 working days prior to the meeting.
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PUBLIC NOTICE
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN
The Elk Township Board of Supervisors will meet on January 5th, 2026 at 7:00 PM to hold their Organization Meeting, with the Regular meeting immediately following, in the Elk Township Building located at 952 Chesterville Rd. Lewisville, PA. If you are a person with a disability and require special accommodation to participate in the meeting, please contact the Township at 610-255-0634 no later than 3 working days before the meeting.
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PUBLIC NOTICE
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN
The Auditors of Elk Township will hold their Organization Meeting on January 6th, 2026 at 5 PM in the Elk Township Building located at 952 Chesterville Rd. Lewisville, PA. If you are a person with a disability and require special accommodation to participate in the meeting, please contact the Township at 610-255-0634 no later than 3 working days prior to the meeting.
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ESTATE
NOTICE
ESTATE OF David R. Vining, late of Lower Oxford Township, Chester County, Deceased. Letters Testamentary on the estate of the above-named David R. Vining 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:
Michael David Vining, Executor, c/o Attorney: Winifred Moran Sebastian, Esquire, 208 E. Locust Street P.O. Box 381 Oxford, PA 19363 610-932-3838 12p-31-3t
Sheriff Sale of Real Estate
By virtue of the within mentioned writs directed to Sheriff Kevin D. Dykes, the hereindescribed real estate will be sold at public on-line auction via Bid4Assets, by accessing URL www.bid4assets.com/chestercopasheriffsales, on Thursday, January 15th, 2026 at 11AM. Notice is given to all parties in interest and claimants that the Sheriff will file with the Prothonotary and in the Sheriff’s Office, both located in the Chester County Justice Center, 201 W Market Street, West Chester, Pennsylvania, Schedules of Distribution on Tuesday, February 17th, 2026. Distribution will be made in accordance with the Schedules unless exceptions are filed in the Sheriff’s Office within ten (10) days thereafter.
Sale No. 26-1-1
Writ No. 2024-10877-RC
Debt: $463,599.16
US Bank Trust National Association, Not In Its Individual Capacity But Solely As Owner Trustee For VRMTG Asset Trust V. Amyia McCarthy
Address of Property: 403 Saginaw Road, Lincoln University, PA 19352
ALL THAT CERTAIN lot or parcel of land situated in the New London Township, County of Chester, Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, being more fully
described in Deed dated August 22, 2020 and recorded in the Office of the Chester County Recorder of Deeds on October 9, 2020, in Deed Book Volume 10302 at Page 1554, as Instrument No. 202011769209.
Tax Parcel No. 71-1-43.1C
Attorney for Plaintiff: Hladik, Onorato & Federman, LLP Stephen M. Hladik Esquire (215) 855-9521
N.B. Ten percent (10%) of the purchase money must be paid at the time of the on-line sale. Payment must be made via Bid4Assets. The balance must be paid within twenty-one (21) days from the date of sale via Bid4Assets. KEVIN D. DYKES, SHERIFF
12p-24-3t
Sheriff Sale of Real Estate
By virtue of the within mentioned writs directed to Sheriff Kevin D. Dykes, the hereindescribed real estate will be sold at public on-line auction via Bid4Assets, by accessing URL www.bid4assets.com/chestercopasheriffsales, on Thursday, January 15th, 2026 at 11AM. Notice is given to all parties in interest and claimants that the Sheriff will file with the Prothonotary and in the Sheriff’s Office, both located in the Chester County Justice Center, 201 W Market Street, West Chester, Pennsylvania, Schedules of Distribution on Tuesday, February 17th, 2026. Distribution will be made in accordance with the Schedules unless exceptions are filed in the Sheriff’s Office within ten (10) days thereafter.
Sale: 26-1-2
Writ of Execution No. 2025-03670-RC Debt: $409,867.18
Freedom Mortgage Corporation V. Lawrence B. Wiker and Dolores D. Wiker, owner(s) of property situate in the Township of East Nottingham, Chester County, Pennsylvania
Being 100 Buttercup Drive, Oxford, PA 19363
Parcel No. 69-5-15.17
Improvements thereon: RESIDENTIAL DWELLING
Attorneys for Plaintiff: Orlans Law Group PLLC.
N.B. Ten percent (10%) of the purchase money must be paid at the time of the on-line sale. Payment must be made via Bid4Assets. The balance must be paid within twenty-one (21) days from the date of sale via Bid4Assets. KEVIN D. DYKES, SHERIFF 12p-24-3t
Sheriff
Sale of Real Estate
By virtue of the within mentioned writs directed to Sheriff Kevin D. Dykes, the hereindescribed real estate will be sold at public on-line auction via Bid4Assets, by accessing URL www.bid4assets.com/chestercopasheriffsales, on Thursday, January 15th, 2026 at 11AM. Notice is given to all parties in interest and claimants that the Sheriff will file with the Protho-
notary and in the Sheriff’s Office, both located in the Chester County Justice Center, 201 W Market Street, West Chester, Pennsylvania, Schedules of Distribution on Tuesday, February 17th, 2026. Distribution will be made in accordance with the Schedules unless exceptions are filed in the Sheriff’s Office within ten (10) days thereafter.
Sale No.: 26-1-13 Writ No: 2022-01723-RC Debt: $547,449.21
CASCADE FUNDING MORTGAGE TRUST HB8, Plaintiff V. MARY JANICE JEFFRIES Defendant(s)
ALL THOSE CERTAIN LOTS OR PIECES OF GROUND SITUATE IN EAST MARLBOROUGH TOWNSHIP, COUNTY OF CHESTER AND COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA
ADDRESS OF PROPERTY: 458 MIMOSA CIRCLE KENNETT SQUARE, PA 19348
N.B. Ten percent (10%) of the purchase money must be paid at the time of the on-line sale. Payment must be made via Bid4Assets. The balance must be paid within twenty-one (21) days from the date of sale via Bid4Assets. KEVIN D. DYKES, SHERIFF 12p-24-3t
Sheriff Sale of Real Estate
By virtue of the within mentioned writs directed to Sheriff Kevin D. Dykes, the hereindescribed real estate will be sold at public on-line auction via Bid4Assets, by accessing URL www.bid4assets.com/chestercopasheriffsales, on Thursday, January 15th, 2026 at 11AM. Notice is given to all parties in interest and claimants that the Sheriff will file with the Prothonotary and in the Sheriff’s Office, both located in the Chester County Justice Center, 201 W Market Street, West Chester, Pennsylvania, Schedules of Distribution on Tuesday, February 17th, 2026. Distribution will be made in accordance with the Schedules unless exceptions are filed in the Sheriff’s Office within ten (10) days thereafter.
Sale No.: 26-1-14
Writ No: 2025-04541-RC
Debt: $130,147.06
LAKEVIEW LOAN SERVICING, LLC, Plaintiff V. DAMON KILLIAN ELLMORE; KERRI ANN FORD ELLMORE Defendant(s)
ALL THOSE CERTAIN LOTS OR PIECES OF GROUND SITUATE IN THE BOROUGH OF PARKESBURG, CHESTER COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA.
Property Address: 140 N CHURCH STREET PARKESBURG, PA 19365
N.B. Ten percent (10%) of the purchase money must be paid at the time of the on-line sale. Payment must be made via Bid4Assets. The balance must be paid within twenty-one (21) days from the date of sale via Bid4Assets. KEVIN D. DYKES, SHERIFF 12p-24-3t
Sheriff Sale of Real Estate By virtue of the within mentioned writs directed to Sheriff Kevin D. Dykes, the hereindescribed real estate will be sold at public on-line auction via Bid4Assets, by accessing URL www.bid4assets.com/chestercopasheriffsales, on Thursday, January 15th , 2026 at 11AM. Notice is given to all parties in interest and claimants that the Sheriff will file with the Prothonotary and in the Sheriff’s Office, both located in the Chester County Justice Center, 201 W Market Street, West Chester, Pennsylvania, Schedules of Distribution on Tuesday, February 17th , 2026. Distribution will be made in accordance with the Schedules unless exceptions are filed in the Sheriff’s Office within ten (10) days thereafter.
Sale No. 26-1-23
Writ No. 2025-00559-JD
Debt: $3,752,357.51
MMG INVESTMENTS VI, LLC, Plaintiff V. SIEPSER PROPERTIES, LLC, SURGICAL EYE CARE LTD, STEVEN B. SIEPSER AND SUSANNAH SMALL AKA SUSANNAH M. SMALL, Defendants
Address of property: 530 Richards Road, Kennett Square, PA 19348
ALL THAT CERTAIN lot of land Situate in the Borough of Kennett Square, County of Chester and Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, shown as Lots No. 50 and 51, on Plan of Building Lots of “Kennett Heights” as recorded in the Recorder’s Office of Chester County and being bounded and described as follows:
BEGINNING at a point on the Southerly side of Richard Road as originally laid out, said point of beginning being a corner of Parcel B on the said Plan and being marked by the following 2 courses and distances, from an iron marking the intersection of the Northerly side of Richards Road (45 feet wide) with the Westerly side of Bloomfields Avenue (50 feet wide) to wit: (1) South 18 degrees 42 minutes 00 seconds East 43.10 feet (2) North 71 degrees 18 minutes 00 seconds East 50 feet to said point of beginning and along the Southerly side of Richards Road as originally laid out North 71 degrees 18 minutes 00 seconds East 50 feet to a point in a common driveway marking a corner of the lands of Donald R. and Patricia A. Farmer, thence along the same South 18 degrees 42 minutes 00 seconds East 1.90 feet to a point on the Southerly side of Richards Road as presently laid out; thence continuing
Goodwin honored by Avon Grove Lions
Sam Goodwin has been named the Avon Grove Lions Club Student of the Month from the Avon Grove High School for December of 2025. He is the son of Sam Goodwin, Sr. and Becky Bewley of West Grove.
Sam’s school activities include participation in the SkillsUSA Competition for
the TCHS HVAC Program and the CDE Competition representing the Avon Grove Future Farmers of America. Sam helps his community by assisting with the Franklin Fall Festival. Sam was named the Co-Op Student of the Quarter for TCHS. He placed second in the TCHS Skills Competition and
completed the Act 35 Civic Exam with 100%.
After graduation, Sam plans to attend a trade school to be a journeyman in HVAC. The teachers who have influenced him the most are Mr. Ricketts, Mr. Horning, Mr. Herrman, Mr. Murray, Mr. Gregory, Mrs. Buono and Mrs. Brennan.
Nelson named a Student of the Month
Wyatt Nelson was named the Avon Grove Lions Student of the Month. He is a student at the Avon Grove Charter School.
Wyatt has assumed leadership roles as coun-
cil executive and president of the student council.
He’s a student who quietly steps up on something that needs to be done, who checks on others without being asked, and who leads not for attention, but
because he truly cares about his school and community. He also leads with kindness, works with purpose, and shows genuine respect for everyone around him.
along the lands of Donald R. and Patricia Farmer leaving Richards Road passing through the aforementioned common drive and passing through a garage 148.10 feet to a point in line with the lands of Marvin B. and Willa Mae Claycomb; thence along the same South 71 degrees 18 minutes 00 seconds West 50 feet to an iron pin marking a corner of Parcel B aforementioned; thence along same North 18 degrees 42 minutes 00 seconds West 148.10 feet to an iron pin on the Southerly side of Richards Road as presently laid out; thence continuing along Parcel B North 18 degrees 42 minutes 00 seconds West 1.90 feet to the first mentioned point and place of BEGINNING. A.
TOGETHER with all and singular the improvements, ways, streets, alleys, driveways, passages, waters, water-courses, rights, liberties, privileges, hereditaments and appurtenances, whatsoever unto the hereby granted premises belonging, or in any wise appertaining, and the reversions and 26-1-23 Docket No. 2025-00559-JD Debt 3,752,357.5) remainders, rents, issues, and profits thereof; and all the estate, right title, interest, property, claim and demand whatsoever of the said Grantors, as well at law as in equity, of, in, and to the same.
UPI NO.: 3-3-111
BEING the same premises which Katie Scanlon Kleckner, formerly known as Katie Scanlon by Deed dated 3/06/2023 and recorded 3/28/2023 in Chester County in Record Book 11029 Page 2158 conveyed unto Steven B. Siepser and Susannah Small, in fee
BEING known as 530 Richards Road, Kennett Square, PA 19348.
AND Address of property: 528 Brandywine Creek Road, Coatesville, PA 19320
Legal Description:
ALL THAT CERTAIN parcel of land situated in Newlin Township, Chester County, Pennsylvania being shown as Tract F3 on a Plan of Property for Buck and Doe Associates, L.P., by Henry S. Conrey, Inc., Division of Chester Valley Engineers, Paoli, Pennsylvania and being more fully described as follows: BEGINNING at a point in the title line, L.R. 15057, Brandywine
Creed Road, 33 feet wide, said point being 596.00 more or less feet east of the intersection of Brandywine Creek Road, L.R. 15057 with McCorkles Road, T-389; thence from the said point of beginning, leaving Brandywine Creek Road, passing over the south side thereof and along the northwest line of Tract F4, South 42 degrees 24 minutes 33 seconds West 1,058.01 to a point in the northeast line of Tract R2; thence along the northeast line of Tract 2, North 56 degrees 02 minutes 40 seconds West 713.15 feet to a point in the title line of McCorkles Road T-389 (vacated); thence along the title line of the same, the following four (4) courses and distances; (1) South 41 degrees 57 minutes 02 seconds West 260.00 feet; (2) South 38 degrees 53 minutes 39 seconds West 200.50 feet to an angle point; (3) South 20 degrees 34 minutes 55 seconds West 130.01 feet to an angle point; (4) South 62 degrees 25 minutes 27 seconds West 450.00 feet to a point marking a corner of lands of Tract R2; thence leaving McCorkles Road, crossing over the north side thereof North 73 degrees 04 minutes 49 seconds West 353.81 feet to a point in the center line of Buck Run; thence along Buck Run the following three (3) courses and distances; (1) North 26 degrees 58 minutes 14 seconds West 189.62 feet to an angle point; (2) Nmih 55 degrees 16 minutes 24 seconds West, crossing over the dividing line between East Fallowfield Township and Newlin Township 119.96 feet to an angle point; (3) Nmih 43 degrees 12 minutes 36 seconds West 181.11 feet to a point; thence still along the easternmost lines of Tract R2, leaving Buck Run North 71 degrees 41 minutes 52 seconds East 448.65 feet to a point; thence recrossing the dividing line between East Fallowfield Township and Newlin Township and still along the, easternmost line of Tract R2, North 24 degrees 19 minutes 53 seconds West 692.88 feet to a stone marking the southeast corner of lands of Howard Elvin; thence along the southeast lines of lands of Howard Elvin, North 37 degrees 16 minutes 40 seconds East 402.62 feet to a post; thence continuing along the south line of lands of Howard Elvin, North 76 degrees 27 minutes 19 seconds East, again crossing the dividing line between East Fallowfield
Township and Newlin Township, 297.71 feet to a post; thence still along the southernmost lines of Howard Elvin, the following four (4) courses and distances: (1) North 73 degrees 25 minutes 22 seconds East 498.69 feet to a post; (2) South 56 degrees 08 minutes 31 seconds East 224.66 feet to a post; (3) North 89 degrees 39 minutes 05 seconds East 400.56 feet to a post; (4) North 31 degrees 10 minutes 51 seconds East 94.90 feet to a spike in the Brandywine Creek Road, 33 feet wide; thence along the title line of the same the following (4) courses and distances: (1) South 57 degrees 02 minutes 10 seconds East 57.05 feet to an angle point; (2) South 53 degrees 00 minutes 10 seconds East 232.32 feet to an angle point; (3) South 33 degrees 38 minutes I°O Seconds East 110.22 feet to an angle point; (4) South 08 degrees 54 minutes 10 seconds East 153.78 feet to an angle point; said point being west of the intersection of the west branch of the Brandywine with Buck Run; thence leaving Brandywine Creek Road, South 73 degrees 52 minutes 00 seconds East 55.44 feet to a point on the bank of Buck Run; thence generally along the south side of the Brandywine Creek the following 3 courses and distances; (1) South 61 degrees 07 minutes 00 seconds East 98.76 feet to an angle point; (2) South 74 degrees 00 minutes 00 seconds East 240.24 feet to an angle point; (3) South 83 degrees 10 minutes 00 seconds East 364.32 feet to an angle point; thence along crossing through the title line of Brandywine Creek Road, L. R. 15057, South 45 degrees 57 minutes 00 seconds East 198.50 feet to a point in the title line of L. R. 15057; thence along the title line of the same, North 83 degrees 04 minutes 34 seconds West 175.58 feet to the point of beginning.
CONTAINING 69.673 acres of land, be the same more or less.
TITLE TO SAID PREMISES IS VESTED IN Steven B. Siepser and Susannah Small by Deed from Forgason Family Limited Partnership dated 2/24/2005 and recorded 3/17/2005 in the County of Chester in Record Book 6437 Page 1850.
BEING known as 528 Brandywine Creek Road.
Law Firm / Attorney: Christopher P. Schueller (PA. Id. No. 92746), BUCHANAN INGERSOLL & ROONEY PC, Two Liberty Place, 50 S. 16th Street, Suite 3200, Philadelphia, PA 19102, (T): 215-665-8700
Attorneys for Plaintiff, MMG Investments VI, LLC
N.B. Ten percent (10%) of the purchase money must be paid at the time of the on-line sale. Payment must be made via Bid4Assets. The balance must be paid within twenty-one (21) days from the date of sale via Bid4Assets. KEVIN D. DYKES, SHERIFF 12p-24-3t
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Courtesy photo
Sam Goodwin has been named the Avon Grove Lions Club Student of the Month from the Avon Grove High School for December 2025. He is the son of Sam Goodwin, Sr. and Becky Bewley of West Grove. Pictured are, from left, Sam Goodwin, Sr, Sam Goodwin, Ed Tolmie, the first vice president Lion, assistant principal Mark Miller, Becky Bewley, Lucas Goodwin and Lion Dave Priebe.
Courtesy photo
Wyatt Nelson was named the Avon Grove Lions Student of the Month. Pictured are Ashley Boyle, Christopher Nelson, Wyatt Nelson, Avon Grove Lions first Vice President Lion Ed Tolmie and science teacher Marielle Veilleux.
Pa. lawmakers fight for accountable policing, introduce bill to unmask federal ICE agents
As Immigration Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents continue to ramp up their efforts to detain and arrest civilians, State Sen. Amanda M. Cappelletti (D-17, Montgomery/Delaware) and State Sen. Nikil Saval (D-1, Philadelphia) introduced legislation that will prohibit law enforcement agents from using face coverings to conceal their identities while acting within the scope of their duties in Pennsylvania.
Senate Bill 1071 seeks to reestablish a broken public trust in legitimate law enforcement and discourage bad actors from impersonating law enforcement and further harming Pennsylvania communities.
“Our Commonwealth depends on immigrants— many of whom are Hispanic and Latino—for the vitality of our economy, the strength of our communities, and the richness of our culture. To target people based on appearance, language, or heritage under the guise of ‘law enforcement’ is nothing more than state-sanctioned intimidation. Armed agents, often without clear and visible identification, conducting indiscriminate raids are not making our country safer— they’re deepening division,” Sen. Cappelletti said in a statement. “ICE has become a symbol of government
overreach, and its agents’ actions are a betrayal of our core democratic values. Their unprecedented use of masked policing is not just misguided, it is an intentional attempt to reshape America through fear and scapegoating.”
Since the beginning of 2025, 20 people have died in ICE custody, marking the year as the deadliest for ICE detentions since 2005.
In Pennsylvania alone, the state houses approximately 13,850 ICE detainees, with 2,370 being held in solitary confinement—the second highest rate following that in Texas. Additionally, ProPublica has reported findings indicating that Immigration agents have held upwards of 170 U.S. citizens this year, including combat veterans who have served our nation.
“The presence of heavily armed, masked, unidentifiable individuals roaming our public spaces, work sites, and residential blocks— kidnapping people off the streets and disappearing our neighbors—breeds terror and chaos in our communities and makes all of us less safe,” Sen. Saval said. “We must reassert the rights we all hold dear as residents of Pennsylvania: to dignity, to safety, and to due process. The No Secret Police Legislation is a step in the right direction, requir-
ing a floor for transparency between officers and the communities they serve.”
While ICE agents continue to execute dangerous raids and arrests nationwide, their reach extends deep into Pennsylvania communities, including the districts that Sen. Cappelletti and Sen. Saval represent.
Key provisions in the legislation include the following:
Mandatory identification: Law enforcement officers and agents acting within the scope of their duties must wear clearly visible identification that includes a badge with name, badge number, and department or agency, and a department or agencyissued uniform.
Prohibition on masking: Officers and agents acting within the scope of their duties may not wear masks, facial coverings, or other garments that obscure their identity.
Criminal penalties: Officers and agents who violate these provisions will be subject to criminal penalties.
Civil penalties: Failure to identify or concealment of identity may be grounds for a civil cause of action.
Appropriate exceptions are also considered in the bill, including surgical or
N95 respirators designed to prevent the transmission of airborne diseases and undercover officers or agents investigating serious criminal conduct.
Several other states, including New York and Massachusetts, have introduced similar legislation that would require federal agents to wear identifying information. California also introduced a like bill, which was signed into law in September. On the federal level, Senate Democrats introduced the VISIBLE Act to require all immigration enforcement officers to display visible
identification.
State Sen. John Kane (D-9, Delaware/Chester) said, “Our Commonwealth and our country should never become comfortable with masked, unidentified groups taking people from their homes, schools, or right off the street. Lawful investigations and arrests in the United States must be performed by properly identified law enforcement officers. This legislation is about accountability, transparency, and public safety. It also continues past practice of law enforcement displaying their badge and name on their uniform. We have
required this for centuries and it is important that we continue this policy. Every Pennsylvanian deserves to know that when someone with a badge approaches them, that badge is real, that name is visible, and that officer is acting under the law. We hold our police and all stewards of the law to these standards, and we should expect no less from anyone operating within our borders.”
Supporters of this legislative initiative can reach out to their Pennsylvania State Senators to ask them to sign on in support of Senate Bill 1071.
Courtesy photo
State lawmakers have introduced legislation that will prohibit law enforcement agents from using face coverings to conceal their identities while acting within the scope of their duties in Pennsylvania.
