Chester County Press 03-20-2024 Edition

New Garden board gives approval to Smedley Preserve’s master plan

Natural Lands, spelled out the future for the park –referred to as the Smedley Preserve -- that will include forests, trails and pathways, restored streams and acres of meadows in the form of a master plan that received the approval of the board.

a goal that will be challenging given its former usage. “Golf courses are not really an ecologically beneficial

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March

The $4.25 million project may be entirely paid for by grants million purchase of the 106acre site from the Smedley family at their June 7, 2021 online work session, however, the shared vision of the property’s owners and stakeholders have been reimagining the parcel as a passive recreation park. At a presentation on March 18 at the New Garden Township Building, Kate Raman, a conservation project manager at

The restoration of the park, Raman said, is intended to enhance the ecological function of water quality, biodiversity and resilience,

Howett’s Custom Screen Printing presents $35,000 to OMI

The #Oxford Strong t-shirt fundraiser was the single largest contribution that Oxford Mainstreet, Inc. received Greer said, “I underestimated what we would do. We sold over 4,000 shirts.”

The $35,000 raised through the #Oxford Strong t-shirt fundraiser was the single largest contribution that Oxford Mainstreet, Inc. received.

Ehrhardt had just started working as the new executive director for OMI just two days before the fire.

OMI’s building was one of the businesses destroyed in the fire.

Ehrhardt explained, “We

lost 25 years of Oxford Mainstreet history. We lost all of our supplies for First

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council that Brian Little from Cameron’s Ace Hardware approached the printing company with the idea.

Leslie Sleesman, the OMI board chairperson, and Julia Lo Ehrhardt, the OMI executive director, updated council on the status of the organization six months after the horrific fire that damaged several buildings in the downtown last Sept. 13. The fire displaced nearly 100 residents and numerous businesses.

Oxford Library officials outline the need for more funding

By Betsy Brewer Brantner

Contributing Writer

State and county funding for the third-oldest library in the state has not increased since 2020 library to ask for additional funding from the local municipalities.

According to Carey Bresler, the director of the Oxford Library, funding from the state and the county hasn’t changed since 2020. That has forced the

At a recent meeting of Oxford Borough Council, Bresler and Jay Kennedy, treasurer of the Oxford Library Board, addressed how the library is funded and the value it brings to the

Chester

Chester County and the third old-

est in Pennsylvania. The Oxford Library was established on Aug. 3, 1784 by 28 members and an equal number of books, to

County Intermediate Unit outlines process, timeline to find the next KCSD superintendent

The Kennett Consolidated School District formally enlisted the Chester County Intermediate Unit to facilitate the search for a new superintendent last week.

This week, the Chester County Intermediate Unit outlined the process and timeline to find the successor to Kennett Consolidated School District Superintendent Dr. Dusty Blakey, who announced his retirement

effective July 26, 2024.

The search process is already underway. The Intermediate Unit has already created the job posting. Applications from candidates will be accepted from March 15 through April 15.

In early April, there will be focus groups and surveys of Kennett stakeholders—opportunities for input from families, staff, students and the community will be an integral

part of the search process, according to the Chester County Intermediate Unit.

The Intermediate Unit will be hosting community forums, surveys, and stakeholder meetings to gather valuable insights and perspectives on the desired qualities and priorities for the next superintendent. Information on each of these opportunities will be forthcoming.

“We recognize the importance of engaging

our community in this significant decision,” said Kennett Consolidated School Board President David Kronenberg in a statement. “Input from all stakeholders will be carefully considered as we seek to identify a leader who will continue to advance the mission and values of the Kennett Consolidated School District.”

When the job posting closes, the applications will be reviewed. From April

15 to May 15, the candidates will be screened and interviewed. Once all the interviews and follow-up interviews are completed, the Kennett Consolidated School Board will make a decision. It is expected that the announcement of a new superintendent will be made in late May.

For more information and updates on the superintendent search process, contact the Chester County Intermediate Unit.

Photo by Kate Raman The New Garden Township Board of Supervisors gave their approval on

18 to a master plan for the conversion of the 106acre Smedley Preserve in the township to a passive recreation park.

Smedley Preserve...

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“The flood plains and wetlands have been removed and the streams have been realigned, and this is to create the fairways and make it fun for golfers. In a normal environment, there would be more trees on this site, but those trees have been removed to make way for the fairways and that takes shade out, and there is no shade over the tributaries or any of the water features.”

East side, west side restoration

Raman broke down the plans for the preserve into its west side – the area bordered by Church and McCue roads – and its east side, which is to the east of Church Road. The proposal for the west side will include the forest planting of four- to six-foot-high restoration grid trees, that will remain in tubes until they reach ten feet in height. The plan also proposes meadow growth near McCue Road.

Oxford Library...

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“promise Knowledge and Literature in the Township of Oxford…,” according to the articles of incorporation of the Oxford Library Company.

Originally, the library was kept in the home of the designated librarian and subscriptions were limited. In 1868, subscriptions were

A YEAR WITH THE BEST

Happy Anniversary Steven landscape, so this site has been altered significantly,” she said. “Water flows down from Route 1 and right across the turf grass, which functions as impervious cover and it picks up sediment, fertilizers, herbicides and pesticides and brings them into the tributary and eventually to the main branch of the White Clay [Creek].

On the east side, the plan calls for extensive meadow growth that will be created by three different seed mixtures that will produce wildflowers and meadow grasses. Because the 10 on-site ponds are man-made and do not receive shade, Raman said that they create warmer water temperatures and algae – all of which is harmful to fish – and backfills to the White Clay Creek. While some of the ponds have already dried up, the master plan recommends that all ponds be drained, including the largest, which is near the Bowling Green Brandywine Treatment Center. Hannah Kalk, a project coordinator and water quality lead with Resource Environmental Solutions (RES), said that beginning this fall, the company will begin to play an important role in the restoration of the park’s wetlands, which will include draining, grading, repairing failing culverts and incorporating native plantings.

“The stream on site is obviously very degraded, and we’re going to give it more natural geometry and make the streambanks shallow and the stream relatively narrow to encourage flooding into these new wetlands,” said Kalk, who estimated that RES’ work will be completed over the next 16 months.

Combined, Raman said that the west and east sides of the park have just under

made available to the public and, for the purchase of a share of stock and an annual fee of one dollar, you could borrow books. In 1938, when it was the beneficiary of the Community Chest, it was made a free library for all.

Kennedy explained where funding for the library comes from. “We are a member of the Chester County Library

4 miles of cart path trails and crossings. She said that while some paths will be removed as part of the master plan, others will be restored and paved to a smooth surface that will allow increased pedestrian accessibility.

While the park now has a temporary parking space off McCue Road, a permanent parking area is being proposed off Church Road and adjacent to Sherwood Drive that will include safety improvements along Church Road such as the installation of two 75-foot-long medians and a pedestrian crosswalk with safety signage.

Master plan costs

The ticket price for the restoration of the Smedley Preserve – estimated at $4.25 million – includes pre-construction; demo and site preparation; infrastructure upgrades; furniture and

Association, and serve a population of 27,160. We get our funding from the state, county and municipalities,” Kennedy said. “The majority of our money is spent on payroll, materials and services.”

Kennedy said that the library has been dipping into its reserves to pay for its operations.

The Oxford Library receives $2.17 per capita from Oxford Borough. The average funding in Chester County for libraries is $4.46 per capita.

In Pennsylvania, there are 630 library outlets, serving 12 million people. Those libraries provide a return on investment of $5.50 in benefits for every $1 of tax support.

Fundraising and donations are important to the Oxford

amenities; planting materials and meadow seeding. While the estimated price tag may be alarming to a township that is also developing the former Saint Anthony’s in the Hills property now known as New Garden Hills, financial assistance may come in the form of federal, state and local grants that could total as high as $4.9 million. Raman recommended that the township phase in these components over a long period rather than all at once, beginning with the installation of parking, and followed by stream and pond restoration and landscaping.

“In terms of thinking about it in the phasing we proposed, you don’t have to do it all at once,” she told the board. “You can just start with the temporary parking lot, and once RES is done working in the area, establish that permanent parking lot and take it

Library, especially now since they are digging into their reserves. The library will continue to provide ongoing budget updates to the borough and the surrounding municipalities. Ongoing support to the library is vital to their success and to help them continue their mission to serve the Oxford area.

Kennedy said, “We have set a goal of $5.00 per capita, so we have a way to go. We are hopeful that we don’t have to keep dipping into our reserves.”

Oxford Borough Council member Amanda Birdwell said, “We have a great staff at the library. I want to make sure we pay enough so we don’t lose that staff.”

in bits as you go.”

Raman’s presentation was the latest public participation meeting related to the Smedley Preserve’s plans, which have also included committee and public meetings, interviews with key stakeholders and a focus group meeting that toured the site in 2023 with residents who live near the property.

Raman was assisted in the development of the plan by Rick Tralies, Natural Lands’ senior director of landscape

some minor changes,” he said.

It is hoped that the memorial will be delivered in April. The borough received drawings of the plan and Fasick reviewed the drawings with John Schaible, the public works supervisor for Oxford.

“One of those changes is to use stamped concrete on the base,” Fasick said. “We will also add rebar and drainage, and make it flush to the grading around the memorial. We will bring in dirt to fill, so it will be easy to mow the grass around it.”

The memorial will be arriving soon, and another meeting with Schaible is planned for April.

planning, and Mike Buck, New Garden Township’s parks and open space superintendent. In addition to the Smedley Preserve, Natural Lands owns and manages 42 nature preserves and one public garden that totals more than 23,000 acres and works with municipalities throughout the commonwealth to protect more than 135,000 acres of land.

To contact Staff Writer Richard L. Gaw, email rgaw@chestercounty.com.

cussed the DVRPC EXPO “Buzz of Summer” final project summary. Oxford Borough Council Manager Pauline Garcia-Allen told council that DVRPC did a final analysis of the project in January.

“We partnered with the Oxford Arts Alliance and set the project up to be highlighted on a First Friday,” she said. “DVRPC provided a lot of pro-bono work with their traffic engineers. The project was done mostly for public safety for pedestrians. We identified Broad Street as a good place to demonstrate the actual design. It involved a mural and temporary physical improvements to tighten the turning radius for turns on to Broad Street.

At the same council meeting, William Fasick, who is currently earning his Eagle Scout rank as a member of Troop 13, came before council to discuss the progress of his plans for a 9/11 Memorial for the Oxford Memorial Park.

“The company that we get the memorial from required

In other business, borough council approved Resolution # 1382-2024 adopting the Chester County Complete Streets Policy and the escrow release no. 4 in the amount of $10,760 for the Damico development at 703 Lincoln Street.

Borough Council also dis-

“We also added crosswalks going into the parking lots. DVRPC did traffic monitoring before and after, along with community surveys. The project cost $4,000. Our survey results showed that drivers’ speeds fell by 20 percent. The completion of this project will enable us to seek grants to make a permanent improvement to provide safety for pedestrians.”

Funding road projects was also discussed for a future project on Hodgson and Eighth streets and Mt. Vernon and Pine streets. Both projects will continue to be discussed.

Photo by Richard L. Gaw

The master plan also includes draining algae-filled ponds.

Photo by Kate Raman

The master plan calls for the restoration of streambanks, the planting of new trees and the construction of meadows.

OMI...

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ask people what they want—$8,000 in grants will be distributed to the businesses. Some days I still can’t believe what happened. One thing I know, together we are Oxford Strong!”

Melissa Pacella, the director of organization and development for SILO (Serving, Inspiring and Loving Others) presented an update on the fire recovery.

“Our mission is to focus on vulnerable people,” she said. “We have provided emergency support, rent and utilities. The first 48 hours, we were in shock. We went to Walmart to collect clothes. We had to collect information on the sizes. We provided a complete change of clothes. We worked with Chester County Emergency Services.

“We coordinated with the county and transferred about 100 people to a hotel. We made sure we had transportation for people. They continued to go to work. We worked early morning and late nights. We were looking for housing. We were shocked at the cost of rental properties. It was very hard to find affordable housing. We had to convince landlords to accept the group. We did it in record time.”

She added, “There is something special in this community. Everyone was working with us. Andrea worked with numerous people to find housing. The next step was to transport them to NSC (Neighborhood Services Center) to get used furniture and other supplies they would need to start over. We were also able to provide Christmas décor and presents for the children.”

Pacella continued, “There were so many people working behind the scenes. There was a lot of creative collaboration. One of those collaborators, St. Christopher’s Church, provided new and used household items.

Jennersville YMCA provided used clothing.

“SILO assisted with car titles, birth certificates and other important papers. We worked with local banks to open bank accounts. We are so grateful to the entire community. The attitude of

people was life changing.”

In other business at the meeting, Steven Seivwright, a resident of the Penn Oaks Development in the borough was advocating for a Penn Oak tree in that development.

The Penn Oak tree has always had a connection to William Penn, the founder of Pennsylvania. The tree was alive when William Penn arrived in Pennsylvania, making it a remarkable link to the past and a symbol of nature’s resilience. Of course, most notably, the development is named after the Penn Oak and its survival is written within the deed itself which says:

“Additionally, Declarant desires that the Penn Oak tree located on lot No. 15 and possibly overhanging Lot No. 14 and Lot No. 18 be cared for and preserved by subsequent owners with the affirmative duties listed herein as well as any other measures that can reasonably taken to preserve tree.”

“On February 12, my neighbor told me the HOA (Homeowners’ Association) voted to take the tree down,” Seivwright said. “It has been assessed by three certified arborists. Our mission statement says to protect and maintain jointly owned property, including the Penn Oak tree. I’m a simple landscaper that appreciates trees that are healthy. Ours is healthy. Core samples have been taken at the tree. The very idea that it would be an option to cut it down for no reason is ridiculous. I’m here to advocate for someone healthy but old –the tree. It can’t speak, so I am speaking for it. I was not apprised of the vote taking place. I don’t think residents were, either.”

After a lengthy discussion, attention was called to the declaration of easement, and whether it would be

wise to hire an attorney for further review.

Oxford Borough Police Chief Sam Iacono reported to council regarding accreditation. The only concern at this point is the Live Scan fingerprinting system. Those concerns are being addressed. More information on accreditation should be coming in April. Iacono thanked Sgt. Coverly and Sgt. Weaver for their work on the accreditation.

“We will have a postassessment meeting this month and work with the solicitor on updating policy,” Iacono said.

The borough will go through the process of updating the accreditation every three years. The accreditation will also help the department in securing grants.

Council held a hearing to adopt Ordinance #9632023 amending Chapter 27, Zoning, Part 2, definitions, section 27-202, definitions of terms, and to redefine terms related to signs, and part 16, signs, by deleting and replacing the part in its entirety. After the hearing, borough council approved the motion.

In other business, borough council approved the following:

• A letter of support for

Oxford Mainstreet Inc’s America 250 PA Day Mini Grant Application;

• HARB Certificate of Appropriateness for 320 Market Street;

• Oxford Area Chamber of Commerce Special Event Permit Application for Movies in the Park on June 21, July 19, and

August 16, 2024;

• Oxford Area Chamber of Commerce Special Event Permit Application for Movies in the Park Halloween, on October 5, 2024;

• Oxford Area Chamber of Commerce Special Event Permit Application for Memorial Day Remembrance Walk on May 27, 2024. It was noted that the chamber will be charged for police service for this event;

• Oxford Area Chamber of Commerce Special Event Permit Application for the Covered Bridge Motorcycle Ride on May 19, 2024; Council President Kathryn Cloyd encouraged the public to come to the Regional Comprehensive Plan update meeting at the Herr Foods Visitor Center.

Courtesy photo

Howett’s Custom Screen Printing and Cameron’s Ace Hardware staff presented Oxford Mainstreet Inc. with a check in the amount of $35,000 raised through the #Oxford Strong t-shirt fundraiser. The funds will be used by OMI to fulfill the mission of building a vibrant downtown. Pictured, left to right, are Christian Campbell, Ed Herr, Leslie Sleesman, Dan Greer, Brian Little, and Julia Lo Ehrhardt, the executive director of OMI.

For the benefit of all the people

“The people have a right to clean air, pure water and to the preservation of the natural, scenic, historic and esthetic values of the environment. Pennsylvania’s public natural resources are the common property of all the people, including generations yet to come. As a trustee of these resources, the Commonwealth shall conserve and maintain them for the benefit of all the people.”

Section 127 of the Constitution of Pennsylvania

There is no one in Chester County – save for perhaps the born naysayer – who can deny the sustaining agricultural, economic and social impact that the mushroom industry has had on the county. It is the core center of our region’s identity and it has been –and will very likely continue to be – our largest point of pride.

Two-thirds of all mushrooms harvested in the U.S. are grown and harvested here – 500 million pounds every year – and the industry supports nearly 10,000 jobs while contributing $4 billion to the economy as reflected in crop sales, packaging, transportation and ancillary jobs.

Some of our county’s largest benefactors – who contribute selflessly to non-profit agencies and events like the annual Mushroom Festival in Kennett Square – come from the mushroom industry, and there is not one local community who has not been the beneficiary of their goodwill.

Further, the industry has received high marks for its ability to convert byproducts and waste from other sectors of agriculture into the compost or medium used to grow mushrooms – leading to a smaller environmental footprint.

And yet, over the past several years, the practice of waste composting has become the focus of environmental protection and regulatory agencies as well as the residents who live near where mushroom substrate is developed.

Over the last several months, this newspaper has heard the stories of the residents of the Landenberg Hunt development along Starr Road, whose properties are in close proximity to several composting facilities. At a town hall meeting held at the New Garden Township Building in January, close to 50 residents from the development shared their on-going concern for the quality of the air that they and their children breathe. Many reported consistent headaches, nausea, and the constant permeation of Hydrogen Sulfide throughout their homes. Nearly everyone reported having to replace vital household appliances -- once, twice and sometimes three times at their own expense – that had been corroded from odors coming from neighboring composting facilities.

In a long conversation with a well-respected expert on the mushroom growing industry, this newspaper heard the testimony of his research in measuring Hydrogen Sulfide levels in Landenberg. At peak times of composting, he said, Hydrogen Sulfide levels greatly exceed legal limits for air quality. The enduring facts surrounding these realities are that they are not simply confined to Landenberg; they are on the minds of many in our county who are not simply content to accept foul air emanating from mushroom composting practices as part of the bargain of living in Chester County. In short, people are concerned for their personal health, the health of their children and for the overall well-being of the communities they live in.

They deserve answers – scientific research that bears the fruit of facts – and on March 21, beginning at 7 p.m. at the New Garden Township Building, they will begin to receive them. A joint presentation by representatives from the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture will share the results of a multi-year data collection that measured the levels of Hydrogen Sulfide at agricultural farms in New Garden Township.

The results of this study will be woven within future reports by the Chester County Press that will explore the short- and long-term impact of mushroom composting in the county, as well as introduce best management practices the mushroom industry is undertaking that both satisfy DEP requirements and prevent the pollution of surface water, groundwater and air.

We pledge that these reports will not be an exercise in finger-pointing. Hardly; our intention is to showcase the ingenuity of the local mushroom industry to create shared solutions in partnership with regulating agencies, state and local government, top experts in the field of environmental safety and perhaps most of all, their neighbors.

We expect nothing less from an industry that has already given us so much.

To tune into the live stream of the meeting, visit New Garden Township/YouTube.

Restricted housing units help keep Pa. corrections officers, inmates safe

By John Eckenrode

Working in state prisons as a corrections officer for a quarter century, it’s safe to say I’ve pretty much seen it all.

That’s why it’s concerning to me, and thousands of officers, to see legislation under consideration in Harrisburg that would eliminate or scale back the use of restricted housing units (RHUs) in our state prison system for inmates. Simply put, it’s our lives on the line, as well as the lives of inmates who are preyed upon by others.

Some refer to RHUs as solitary confinement, but the Hollywood images we’ve all seen are far from modern reality. What is reality is the very real danger inmates in RHUs pose.

Here’s a sample of inmates at SCI-Benner who were recently housed in the RHU for a number of dangerous incidents, including:

• An inmate convicted of first-degree murder who committed an assault.

• An inmate convicted of rape who engaged in sex acts or sodomy on another inmate.

• An inmate convicted of robbery who committed an

assault and threatened an employee.

• An innate convicted of kidnapping to inflict injury or terror who was placed in the RHU for fighting.

• An inmate with a drugrelated conviction who committed sexual harassment and indecent exposure. In one of these cases, an inmate was charged with assault while he was in the RHU. When returning from an outdoor RHU exercise area, the inmate headbutted an officer who was escorting him back to his cell. Several officers were needed to end the situation, but multiple times the inmate yelled, “Every time I come out, I’m gonna kill all of you m-----.” If RHUs are limited in any way, Pennsylvania will be sending a clear signal to inmates that it’s open season on officers, prison employees and other inmates. Even RHUs cannot fully guarantee the safety of others.

As an officer and later sergeant assigned to an RHU for eight years, I was “gassed” by an RHU inmate. Gassing occurs when an inmate throws his or her bodily fluids or feces at an officer. Please understand, horrific offenses like

this can be worse than violent assaults. Officers must undergo constant testing for communicable diseases and possibly be separated from their families. The kind of stress that can be placed on a human being — and his or her family — can be unbearable. We’re forced to take medications because of exposure to bloodborne pathogens and repeatedly test for HIV and hepatitis.

Pennsylvania recently marked six years since the murder of Pennsylvania Corrections Officer Sgt. Mark Baserman. His murder happened at SCISomerset, and it could’ve been avoided. Baserman and a fellow officer made repeated requests to have a dangerous inmate placed in the RHU. That never happened, and tragically, the inmate would later murder Sgt. Baserman. Limiting the use of RHUs has proven to increase violence in prisons. On April 1, 2022, New York passed a law that severely limits, or in some cases eliminates, the ability to place inmates in RHUs. In the first two weeks, six officers and a sergeant were assaulted at a state prison in Elmira.

One year later, statistics

showed prison violence skyrocketed by 33%.

According to numbers maintained by the New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision (DOCCS), there were 3,113 total assaults recorded in New York’s correctional facilities, up from 2,375 assaults the previous year when RHUs were in use. We do not want to see what’s happening in New York repeated here in Pennsylvania. By keeping our RHU system intact, state lawmakers will be protecting countless officers, prison staff and inmates.

John Eckenrode is the president of the Pennsylvania State Corrections Officers Association. For more information, see: pscoa.org.

Peepers, Bracketed Keepers of Our Spring Mood

By Marie-Louise Meyers

Let music from the spheres pour into your trapped ears, missing that let calibrated voices begin to rap. There is no crash course on when to peep and when to be in silence steeped; when shrill notes become more than just foot notes as sun beams penetrate their dreams.

Inconspicuous, almost ridiculous frogs without meter or rhyme, such brazen devotion define, such far-fetched notions like catching butterflies on the wing, and not letting go even in the snow while a flash of red, white and gold birds fly by with a dash of hope renewed in the spring of a doe.

The notes may come from a few inflated throats at first, the outspoken ones pierc-

ing the gathering warmth token on a March day, delayed in the next day’s frost, going for broke in the fragrant air soon on its way till the full musical chorus stretches beyond endurance relaying its message in April or May. In the wind-rows where snow was stowed, telescoping blankets of snow drops enjoined with a blue stars as if shot out of an arrow from afar, How will we ever find peace of mind again unless everything happens at Show time?

Their voices pale before the sunshine impales blossoms on trees and bushes imprisoning them bursting forth finding fruition their only course.

Sounding abrupt much like a Greek chorus, peepers fail to undermine the wafting stream of bird song,

emancipating us from the stronghold of our winter ways while we rake away the last leaves to comprise autumn’s fate.

No need to analyze, like a refresher chorus from now on our lives are consumed by blooms of varying beauty born to be free of any contingencies.

Avon Grove Lions donate hospital equipment to Project Cure

Courtesy photo The Avon Grove Lions recently donated extra hospital equipment from their Hospital Equipment Loaner Program to Project Cure in Jennersville. They donated seven hospital beds, 20 hospital bed mattresses, five Hoyer lifts and 16 bed rails.

Courtesy photo John Eckenrode

Oxford Borough awarded funding for strategic management and planning

Oxford Borough was awarded state funding to improve operations and deliver services more efficiently and effectively.

The Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) recently approved $120,000 in grant funding through its Strategic Management Planning Program (STMP) for the borough. The funding will

support Oxford entering Phase 2 of the program, which includes software and IT upgrades. “As a former mayor and borough council member, I know how hard our local leaders and officials work to serve our communities with limited resources. This funding will help Oxford overcome organizational challenges and operate at top capability through bet-

ter planning, management, and economies,” said State Sen. Carolyn Comitta, who serves on the Senate Local Government Committee and the Pennsylvania Local Government Commission. “I applaud Oxford Borough for taking on this effort in the interest of good government and providing effective, reliable services to constituents and business.”

“The Strategic Management

Planning Program has been invaluable to Oxford, as we work to make informed decisions and improve the Borough’s finances and operations,” said Kathryn Cloyd, Council president. “Phase 1 provided us the opportunity to carefully evaluate all Borough departments to identify inefficiencies. This STMP Phase 2 funding will now enable us to improve, and reduce the cost to deliver,

services to our residents. We thank DCED and our state legislators for supporting us through this process.”

“Governor Shapiro is committed to making Pennsylvania’s communities better places to live and work, and we applaud the growth demonstrated by Oxford Borough,” said Secretary Rick Siger of the Department of Community and Economic Development. “The STMP

is an important tool in the Commonwealth’s efforts to create fiscal strength for a municipality. Funding for programs like this one significantly improve the capability of local governments to deliver services more efficiently and effectively, and to promote growth and community improvements.”

For more information on DCED programs, visit www. dced.pa.gov.

Over 380 Chester County students participate in annual science research competition

Students from all across Chester County showcased their passion for science in the 2024 Chester County Science Research Competition (CCSRC) at the West Chester University Student Recreation Center on March 12 and 13.

Facilitated by the Chester County Intermediate Unit (CCIU), the fair brought together over 380 students from 53 schools, who embraced the spirit of competition across 15 different categories from botany to chemistry, earth and space, zoology and more.

The CCSRC, which is sponsored by CCRES, AGC Chemicals, the Children’s Fund of Chester County and Phillips Mushroom Farms, has two parts: the

Dr. Lucy Balian RorkeAdams Fair for students in grades 6-12, and the Dr. Jonas Salk Fair for students in grades 4-5. The RorkeAdams Fair included 64 volunteer judges and the Salk Fair included 51 volunteer judges, spanning a variety of backgrounds across several different industries.

Students in both fairs displayed months of research on their chosen topics and presented their findings to the judges. The judges, who could preview student projects, met with the student researchers to interview them about their research and conclusions. After the interviews, the judges deliberated in category-based groups

to determine winners and provide each student with valuable feedback.

“This event encourages students to go outside of their comfort zone, whether they are participating in interviews, going to various venues or providing information to the questions being asked that are related to the work that they have done. They learn to express categorically the information that they have learned,” said Jay Erb, a volunteer judge for the CCSRC.

Karin Brian, another volunteer judge for the CCSRC, added, “It gives the students an opportunity to see potential mentors and the realization that pursuing careers in science, tech-

nology, engineering and math is possible for them. They get to see real world applications and engage with people who think like them.”

After a full day of competition, both the Rorke-Adams Fair and the Salk Fair concluded with an open house in the evening, where students and their families had the opportunity to browse all the projects. During the Salk open house, students who placed in each of the 15 categories received their awards while accompanied by their family and friends.

Of the 183 projects entered into the Rorke-Adams Fair of the CCSRC, 123 met the judges’ criteria of a winning project. Winners from Rorke-Adams were

celebrated at the RorkeAdams Award Ceremony on March 19. High school students who placed first, second or third in their category and middle school students who placed first or

second will advance to the Delaware Valley Science Fairs (DVSF) held in the first week of April. To learn more about the CCSRC, visit https://www.cciu.org/ science-fair.

Courtesy photo A student participant in the 2024 Chester County Science Research Competition explains the details of her project to a volunteer judge.

Brandywine Hills Point to Point to run on April 7

The Brandywine Hills Point to Point races, the oldest point-to-point races in the Delaware Valley, will run this year on Sunday, April 7 at the H. E. Myrick Conservation Center in Pocopson Township along Route 842.

The Brandywine Hills point-to-point races are presented by Radnor Hunt Foxhunters and The Hounds Foundation, and the proceeds will benefit the Brandywine Red Clay Alliance’s environment education and watershed conservation programs.

Besides being a great opportunity to get outdoors and enjoy the beautiful Chester County countryside, Brandywine Hills race day offers spectators the thrill of horse and pony races as well as the fun of family-friendly activities like the bouncy pony races and attractions like the parade of foxhounds and antique car display. Part of what makes Brandywine Hills so special is the longtime participation and support of many local families and businesses. There are many pieces to put together to ensure safe and successful racing and

all of the loyal sponsors help make race day possible. The sponsors include the following:

• Livestream, ad and promo Sponsor: West Pharmaceutical Services, Inc.

• Program Printing Sponsor: Brown Advisory

• Safety Sponsors: Nancy Swayne and also an anonymous donor

• Course Maintenance

Sponsor: Franny & Franny Abbott

• Hang Tag Sponsors: Sally Hagele & Hank Lloyd

• Photography Sponsor: Maripeg Bruder and Volterra Farm

• Trophy Sponsor: James A. Cochrane, Inc. and

• Best Turned Out Pony Sponsor: Iron Spring Farm.

The Junior Field Master Chase kicks off the day at noon and is sponsored by Charles S. Fitzgerald, Jr. The excitement of the pony races on the flat begin with the Small Pony Race, sponsored by Unionville Small Animal Associates and is followed by the Medium Pony Race sponsored by Brandywine Valley Heating and Air Conditioning. The Large Pony Race, sponsored by R. Phillips Service

LLC., and the Leadline Pony Race, sponsored by Stephen J. Devine Esquire, follow.

The featured jump races begin at 1:45 p.m. with the Ladies Race sponsored by Nancy Swayne and Jim and Diana Perella, followed by the Amateur Apprentice Race sponsored by Patricia Scott Equine Insurance Specialist. The Novice Timber Race is sponsored by Margot Mohr Teetor/ ReMax Preferred and Mr. & Mrs. Dale Krapf is next. Then the Open Race is sponsored by Radnor Capital Management. The day of racing concludes with the Side Saddle Race sponsored by Clee Edgar.

Gates open at 11 a.m. off Route 842 with preferred parking near the finish line. General admission parking is $25 per car. Refreshments may be purchased on site from Saloon 151.

Children’s activities, which include Bouncy Pony Races and jewelry making, are sponsored by Fylicia Barr Eventing and E. Murdoch Family Foundation.

For more information and to purchase parking passes, visit www.brandywineredclay.org.

Radnor Hunt Races celebrate 93rd year

Celebrating 93 years of horseracing on the Main Line, the Radnor Hunt Races return on Saturday, May 18 in Willistown Township in Chester County.

One of the oldest regional steeplechases, the Radnor Hunt Races will feature five thrilling jump races sanctioned by the National Steeplechase Association. Special events throughout the day include the fourth annual Katherine W. Illoway Invitational Sidesaddle Race, the return of the adorable pony races, a spectacular antique carriage parade, and the much-loved parade of foxhounds.

A variety of entertainment packages are available, from regular and tented tailgates and box seat options to the all-inclusive Skip’s Fox’s Den—which offers both individual ticket options and table rentals for groups of 10.

Located at the finish line, Skip’s Fox’s Den includes gourmet catering, full beverage service, private restrooms, and the opportunity to network and enjoy the races from the best seat in the house.

The Kit’s Club, a familyfriendly version of Skip’s Fox’s Den, will also return this year, offering a buffet lunch with a view of the finish line and ageappropriate games and activities—all children must be accompanied by an adult. And new this year, the all-inclusive Hounds Club, located on the hillside overlooking the homestretch and finish line, includes a gourmet

buffet and open bar.

Radnor

Races is

and must be purchased by May 8—there are no Race Day sales. Tickets can be purchased online by visiting www. radnorhuntraces.org or by calling 610-388-8383. The Races will take place rain or shine on Saturday, May 18 at the W. Burling Cocks Racecourse at the Radnor Hunt. Gates open at 9 a.m. and close at 5 p.m. The five jump races include the Milfern Cup at 1:30 p.m.; the Thompson Memorial Steeplechase at 2:10 p.m.; the Radnor Hunt Cup at 2:50 p.m.; the National Hunt Cup at 3:30 p.m.; and the Henry Collins at 4:10 p.m.

Since 1967, the Brandywine Conservancy—the sole beneficiary of the Radnor Hunt Races—has worked to preserve and protect water resources, breathtaking landscapes, history and active farmland in this region. With the help of the Races and many likeminded partners, the Conservancy has protected over 70,200 acres of open space—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. Built on a rich history of horse racing that has been cultivated in this region for nearly 100 years, the Radnor Hunt Races is supported by the legacy of protecting the stunning

open spaces that make this region such a beautiful place to call home.

For more than 40 years, the Radnor Hunt Races have been “Racing for Open Space” in support of the Brandywine Conservancy—raising over $5.5 million for the organization’s clean water and open space efforts to date.

The 93rd Radnor Hunt Races are generously sponsored by RDS Automotive Group, JPMorgan Chase & Co., Revivalist Spirits, Black Stallion Estate Winery, dfYOUNG, Fox Rothschild LLP, Lockton Companies, Porsche Main Line, RDS INEOS Grenadier, Apogee Insurance Group, The

National Bank of Malvern, Today Media. For more information about corporate sponsorship opportunities, please call 610-388-8308.

About the Brandywine Conservancy

The Brandywine Conservancy protects water, conserves land, and engages communities. The Conservancy uses a multi-faceted approach to conservation. Staff work with private landowners who wish to see their lands protected forever and provide innovative community planning services to municipalities and other governmental agencies. The Conservancy

currently holds more than 510 conservation and agricultural easements and has facilitated the permanent preservation of over 70,200 acres of land. The Conservancy is a program of the Brandywine Conservancy & Museum of Art.

About the Brandywine Conservancy & Museum of Art

The Brandywine Conservancy & Museum of Art preserves and promotes the natural and cultural connections between the area’s beautiful landscape, historic sites, and important artists. The

Conservancy protects the lands and waters throughout the Brandywine Valley and other priority conservation areas, developing sustainable approaches to emerging needs and assuring preservation of majestic open spaces and protection of natural resources for generations to come.

The Museum of Art presents and collects historic and contemporary works of American art, engaging and exciting visitors of all ages through an array of exhibitions and programs.

The Brandywine unites the inspiring experiences of art and nature, enhancing the quality of life in its community and among its diverse audiences.

Courtesy photo

The Brandywine Hills Point to Point races are the oldest point-to-point races in the Delaware Valley. This year’s event takes place on April 7.

Photo courtesy Radnor Hunt Races and Bob Plant

Races.

tradition

CONNIE AKERS

Connie Akers, age 83, of Sanford, North Carolina, passed away peacefully on March 14, 2024 at Parkview Retirement Village.

Connie Lee Brown was born at home in Oxford on Nov. 12, 1940. She grew up in Pentecost at the Broad Street Church. She is preceded in death by her parents, John Walter and Laura Lee Brown, and her siblings, Cedric, Doris, Arthur (Otsy), and Nancy.

She is survived by her siblings, Agnes and Larry, two sons, George L. Akers and wife Annie of Sanford, N.C., and David Akers and wife Rhonda of Franklinton, N.C., ten grandchildren, and seven great-grandchildren.

In 1957, she married Bishop George L Akers, Sr. In 1967, they took the pastorate of First Apostolic Church in Sanford, N.C.

She was also a unit secretary at Central Carolina Hospital Emergency Department for almost 30 years. She treasured the memories she made with numerous doctors, nurses, and staff.

The funeral service was held on March 18 at First Apostolic Church in Sanford, N.C. Burial will be private.

Donations in her memory can be made to First Apostolic Church Building Fund, P.O. Box 2219 Sanford, N.C. 27331.

Condolences may be made at www.bridgescameronfuneralhome.com.

C. ROBERT BARNETT

C. Robert Barnett, age 84, of Kennett Square, formerly of West Grove, passed away on March 10, 2024 at Linden Hall in Kennett Square.

Born in West Grove, he was the son of the late Walter E. Barnett and the late Dorothy Hopkins Barnett.

He was a crane operator at Lukens Steel Company in Coatesville for many years.

Mr. Barnett was an avid Phillies fan. He went to Clearwater, Fla. every year to see the Phillies at Spring Training. He was a season ticket holder for many years. While in Florida, he liked going to the Daytona 500 NASCAR race. He also enjoyed country music, going to the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville, Tenn. and being with his friends. Bob was also a Judge of Elections for many years in his voting district in West Grove.

He leaves no survivors.

You are invited to attend his graveside service at 11 a.m. on Wednesday morning, March 20 at the Union Hill Cemetery, Route 82, in Kennett Square.

To view his online tribute and to leave a memory, please visit www.kuzoandfoulkfh.com.

Arrangements are being handled by the Foulk Funeral Home of West Grove.

LAWRENCE ROBERT CARROLL

Lawrence Robert Carroll, of Penn Township and formerly of New London, Pa., passed away peacefully while at home on March 11, 2024. He was 72.

He was the husband of Mary Theresa (Frederick) Carroll, with whom he shared 51 years of marriage. Born in Drexel Hill, Pa., he was the son of the late Lawrence Francis Carroll and Ellen Regina (Gabe) Carroll of Glenolden, Pa.

Larry was a loving husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather. He had many nieces and nephews and cousins. Larry was a graduate of Cardinal O’Hara, Class of 1969, and met his loving wife Mary, a graduate of Prendie, also Class of 1969. In 1978, Larry started building his dream home in New London Township and moved his family from Toby Farms in 1980. He also coached his kids and many others at St. Mary’s CYO basketball league with the “Three Amigos” (also including Gene and Joe) and Avon Grove Little League.

He retired from Carpenter’s Local 845 and Paul Restall Company in Media, Pa. after 34 years. He was a master carpenter and spent over 25 years as a general superintendent and spent most of his career at Boeing Helicopters in Ridley Park, Pa.

Larry loved his boat “Proud Mary” and enjoyed living in Florida for ten years and spending time with his neighbor, “Vito.” He enjoyed golfing, fishing, spending time with his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.

1 Peter 5:7

He is survived by his wife Mary; a daughter, Kimberly Ann (Carroll) Singleton and her husband, Michael of Cochranville, Pa.; three sons, Lawrence Robert Carroll, Jr. and his wife Michelle of Newark, Del., Shawn Carroll and his wife Rachel of New Garden Township, and William Carroll and his wife Dawn of New London Township; his sister, Kathleen Ann (Carroll) Leahy of West Grove; and 11 grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Larry and Ellen, and a brother-in-law, Bernard Patrick Leahy. Arrangements are being handled by the Foulk Funeral Home, Inc. in West Grove. For online condolences and to share a memory with the family, please visit www. kuzoandfoulkfh.com.

19348

GREGG A. PYLE

Gregg A. Pyle passed away on March 11, 2024 while at his home in Kennett Square. He was 62.

He was the loving husband of Gail (Burns) Pyle. They met in 2006 and married in 2012.

Born in West Chester, he was the son of Robert Pyle and Mary (Carpenter) Pyle.

Gregg graduated from Unionville High School and RETS Electronic School in Marple. He then went on to be an auto glass installer for Safelite Auto Glass of West Chester for 38 years. It was a job he enjoyed, and it gave him a chance to meet a lot of people.

Gregg was someone who liked to keep busy. He liked to spend time tinkering around the house. He liked going to the beach to surf, fish and crab. He enjoyed spending time with his family and he also enjoyed gardening and cooking. For many years, he liked to go hunting.

Gregg always said if he was teasing you about something, that meant he loved you. He enjoyed growing up on the Longwood property with his brothers. He was a true Dennis the Menace growing up.

Gregg will be remembered and missed for his sense of humor, his kindness, his love for his family and friends.

In addition to his parents and his wife, Gregg is survived by his brothers, Gary Pyle (Ann) of Chesapeake, Virginia, Brian Pyle (Karen) of West Chester, and Glenn Pyle of Winchester, Virginia. He is also survived by his nieces, Kelly Reinhart (Tim) and Nicole Curley (Kyle), and his great-nieces and nephew, Harper, Avery, Chase, and Ro.

You are invited to visit with Gregg’s family and friends from 2 to 4 p.m. on Sunday, April 7 at the Red Clay Room at 423 Dalmation Street in Kennett Square. His celebration of life will begin at 4 p.m. No formal wear required. Please wear jeans and t-shirts, which is what Gregg would want people to wear to his celebration.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Gregg’s name to either the Brandywine SPCA, 1212 Phoenixville Pike, West Chester, Pa. 19380, or KACS (Kennett Area Community Service), PO Box 1025, Kennett Square, Pa. 19348.

Arrangements are being handled by Matthew J. Grieco of Grieco Funeral Home & Crematory, Inc. (484-734-8100) of Kennett Square.

To view Gregg’s online tribute, and to share a memory with his family, please visit www.griecofunerals.com.

MARY ANN HOLCOMB

Mary Ann Holcomb went to be with Jesus in Heaven and reunite with other family members on March 1, 2024. She passed away at Chester County Hospital, with family by her side, at the age of 88. She was born June 17, 1935, in Carroll County, Va., to the late Harless & Vera (Goad) Marshall. She was married to Luther “Lou” Holcomb and they shared 49 years of marriage.

She graduated from Hillsville High School in Virginia in 1952. Shortly after high school, she moved to Wilmington, Del. to live with her cousin, Maxine Goad. She worked as a telephone operator for the Bell Telephone Company. One weekend in 1954, she and Maxine went to New River Ranch, a country music venue in Rising Sun, Md. It was that that night she met the love of her life, Lou. They were married Feb. 5, 1955, and moved to Avondale, Pa. to start their family. They eventually settled in West Grove in 1968 where they lived on Sunnyside Road for 36 years. She was a homemaker and cared for her three children and mother-in-law, Lelia (Cox) Holcomb, until 1979. She also worked at Kendall Retirement home for over two decades, serving as a waitress in the medical dining room, forming lasting friendships along the way, before eventually retiring. She was a lifelong member of the VFW Ladies Auxiliary, in support of her husband, who served in the Korean War.

She was a devout Christian, and her life was a true testimony. During her youth, she actively participated in the Liberty Bible Church in Laurel Fork, Va. She faithfully attended all church events and even won a Bible verse contest. Additionally, her father’s donation of the land facilitated the construction of the church.

After moving to Pennsylvania with her husband, thanks to her sister-in-law, Ruth Richards, she became a member of the Toughkenamon Presbyterian Church. Over the years, she faithfully served in various roles

such as a greeter and a Deacon, demonstrating her dedication to the church and community. She continued to attend services until she no longer could drive, although remained a member. She cherished her church family deeply. They continued to visit and pray with her, offering support and companionship.

She was a loving, kind, compassionate, sweet, and gentle woman who loved caring for and spending time with her family. Each and every family member felt her unconditional love. She loved flowers, had the ultimate “sweet tooth” and collected salt & pepper shakers. No matter what she was faced with in life, she always kept her faith.

She is survived by her daughters, Mary Lou Thomas and Ruth Ann Gilbert (Ronnie); her eight grandchildren, Shannon Whitt (Billy), Sara Sexton, Betsy Schmidt (Stephen), Zachary Wilson (Amy), Michael Holcomb II, Amanda Dugger (Josh), Cassie Wilson and Erica Gilbert. Also surviving are 21 great-grandchildren, William (Krista), Alivia (Artie), Ronnie (Hayleigh), Makenzie, Karly, Paige, Chelsea, Owen, Madisen, Athena, Sean, Zachary, Aubrey, Michael III, Mason, Kendra, Amelia, Alex, Wyatt, Stella and Jessie.

She is also survived by three great-great grandchildren, Arthur, Carter and Alorah, a brother, Joel Racine Marshall, a daughter-in-law, Mary Ellen Jackson and many nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents and husband, she was predeceased by her son, Michael L. Holcomb, her brothers, Wayne Marshall, Ralph Marshall and Saford James Marshall, numerous brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, a son-in-law, John Thomas and grandson-in-law, Bobbie Sexton.

Services were held on March 8 at Foulk Funeral

Home in West Grove. Interment followed at Union Hill Cemetery.

Arrangements are being handled by Foulk Funeral

Home of West Grove.

As Mary Ann would say, “Turn the other cheek,” and “Jesus Never Fails,” and “Bye. Be good and God Bless.”

Obituary submissions

The Chester County Press publishes obituaries free of charge for funeral homes with active advertising accounts only.

Others with a connection to southern Chester County are charged a modest fee. Obituaries appear on the Wednesday after they are received with a Monday 5 p.m. deadline. They are also posted on www.chestercounty.com. Photos should be

sent as .jpeg attachments to the obituary text. To submit an obituary to the Chester County Press or for a rate quote, email the information to editor@ chestercounty.com.

NOTICE

PENNSBURY TOWNSHIP

ZONING HEARING BOARD

NOTICE is hereby given that the Z oning Hearing Board of Pennsbury Township will hold a Public Hearing at the Pennsbury Township Building, 702 Baltimore Pike, Chadds Ford, Pennsylvania, on April 3, 2024, at 6:30 p.m. at which time the Board will hear the following matter: In re: Application of Peter Paulsen seeking variances from the requirements that all accessory buildings be located in the side yard or rear yard of the lot, and no closer to the street than the front building line of the principal building under Zoning Ordinance Section 162-2002.A.2.b. and c.; and from the 10-foot minimum side yard setback under Ordinance Section 162-2002.A.3; and such other relief including, in the alternative, a variance from the one-year time limitation on the reconstruction of a prior, lawful non-conforming building under Ordinance Section 162-2204.B, all so as to permit the re-construction of a non-

conforming detached garage on property located at 2066 Parkerville Road, West Chester, PA (UPI #64-1-3) in the Township’s R-3 Residential Zoning District. If you are a person with a disability and wish to attend the public meeting scheduled above and require an auxiliary aide, service or other accommodation to participate in the proceedings, please contact Kathy Howley at 610-388-7323 to discuss how Pennsbury Township may best accommodate your needs. Edward M. Foley, Solicitor Brutscher, Foley, Milliner, Land & Kelly, LLP 213 East State Street Kennett Square, PA 19348 3p-13-2t

NOTICE

PENNSBURY TOWNSHIP

ZONING HEARING BOARD

NOTICE is hereby given that the Zoning Hearing Board of Pennsbury Township will hold a Public Hearing at the Pennsbury Township Building, 702 Baltimore Pike, Chadds Ford, Pennsylvania, on April 3, 2024, at 7:30 p.m. at which time the Board will hear the following

matter: In re: Application of Spencer Staples and Jana Law seeking a variance from the fifty-foot setback requirement applicable to swimming pools and related structures under Zoning Ordinance Section 162-2002.A.3.b so as to allow construction of a swimming pool, coping, deck, pool equipment pad and pool house within 19 feet of the side property line and within 22.3 feet of the rear property line on property located at 142 Ponds Edge Dr., Chadds Ford, PA (UPI#64-3-95.2) in the Township’s R-4 Residential Zoning district. If you are a person with a disability and wish to attend the public meeting scheduled above and require an auxiliary aide, service or other accommodation to participate in the proceedings, please contact Kathy Howley at 610-388-7323 to discuss how Pennsbury Township may best accommodate your needs. Edward M. Foley, Solicitor Brutscher, Foley, Milliner, Land & Kelly, LLP 213 East State Street Kennett Square, PA 19348 3p-13-2t

ESTATE NOTICE

ESTATE OF ROBERT BRIAN JORDAN, DECEASED. Late of London Grove Township, Chester County, PA

LETTERS of ANCILLARY 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 ALLAN

WHEATCRAFT, ANCILLARY ADMINISTRATOR, c/o Stephen D. Potts, Strafford Office Bldg. #2, 200 Eagle Rd., Ste. 106, Wayne, PA 19087-3115, Or to his Attorney: STEPHEN D. POTTS, HERR, POTTS & POTTS, LLC, Strafford Office Bldg. #2, 200 Eagle Rd., Ste. 106, Wayne, PA 19087-3115 3p-20-3t

ESTATE NOTICE ESTATE OF DORIS S. GROSECLOSE, 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 BETH A. GROSECLOSE, ADMINISTRATRIX, c/o Stacey Willits McConnell, Esq., 24 E. Market St., P.O. Box 565, West Chester, PA 19381-0565, Or to her Attorney: STACEY WILLITS McCONNELL, LAMB McERLANE, PC, 24 E. Market St., P.O. Box 565, West Chester, PA

19381-0565

3p-20-3t

NOTICE OF ESTATE AND TRUST ADMINISTRATION

NOTICE is hereby given of the administration of the Estate of BRESCI J. CELLINI, a/k/a B. JOSEPH CELLINI and of THE BRESCI J. AND DOROTHY R.

REAL ESTATE PROTECTOR TRUST, dated January 16, 2009; THE BRESCI J. & DOROTHY R. CELLINI INCOME ONLY REAL ESTATE PROTECTOR TRUST, dated January 16, 2009; and THE BRESCI J. & DOROTHY R. CELLINI LIVING TRUST, dated January 16, 2009. Bresci J. Cellini, settlor of the trust, late of the Township of Logan Grove, County of Chester, and Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, departed this life on October 16, 2023.

Letters Testamentary in the Estate of BRESCI J. CELLINI, 15-23-2835, have been granted to Francis J. Cellini and Gregory J. Cellini, who request all persons having claims or demands against the Estate and/or Trust of the Decedent to make known the same, and all persons indebted to the Decedent to make payments without delay to the Personal Representative/Trustee, c/o

Julieanne E. Steinbacher, Esquire, Steinbacher, Goodall & Yurchak, 413 Washington Blvd, Williamsport, PA 17701. 3p-20-3t

NOTICE

Notice is hereby given that an online auction to sell surplus items will be received by London Grove Township starting Monday, April 1, 2024 - 8:00 a.m. until closing on April 26, 2022 at www.municibid.com. Shane P. Kinsey Director of Public Works 3p-20-1t

NOTICE

PENN TOWNSHIP ZONING

HEARING BOARD NOTICE is hereby given that the Zoning Hearing Board of Penn Township will hold a Public Hearing at the Penn Township Municipal Building, 260 Lewis Road, West Grove, Pennsylvania, on April 10, 2024 at 7:00 p.m. at which time the Board will hear the following matter: Application of Roberto C. Nieto Ayala seeking a dimensional variance from the 100 foot set-back requirements for permanent animal shelters under Section 1615.B of the Zoning Ordinance so as to allow construction of a chicken house closer to the property line than 100 feet; and seeking a variance from the prohibition against locating accessory structures within the front yard of a property under Ordinance Sections 1501.A.2.b and c, so as to allow the construction of the chicken house within the legal front yard of property located at 320

Woodcrest Road, West Grove, PA (being UPI #58-4-16.9) in the Township’s RA-Residential/ Agricultural Zoning District. If you are a person with a disability and wish to attend the public meeting scheduled above and require an auxiliary aide, service or other accommodation to participate in the proceedings, please contact the Township Secretary at (610) 869-9620 to discuss how Penn Township may best accommodate your needs. Edward M. Foley, Solicitor Brutscher, Foley, Milliner, Land & Kelly, LLP 213 E. State Street Kennett Square, PA 19348

3p-20-2t

FICTITIOUS NAME

REGISTRATION

An application for registration of the fictitious name Charny Wellness, 1265 Drummers Lane, Suite 120, Wayne, PA 19087, was filed in the Department of State at Harrisburg, PA, March 11, 2024, pursuant to the Fictitious Names Act, Act 1982-295. The name and address of the person who is a party to the registration is Dr. David Charny, Psy.D., 1265 Drummers Lane, Suite 120, Wayne, PA 19087. Kurtz and Partners P.C., 3 Glenhardie Corp. Ctr., 1265 Drummers Lane, Suite 120, Wayne, PA 19087

3p-20-1t

ESTATE NOTICE

ESTATE OF Louva Ann Gibbs late of West Fallowfield Township, Chester County, Deceased. Letters Testamentary on the estate of the above named Louva Ann Gibbs having been granted to the undersigned, all persons having claims or demands against the estate of the said decedent are requested to make known the same and all persons indebted to the said decedent to make payment without delay to: David B. Gibbs, Executor c/o Attorney: Winifred Moran Sebastian, Esquire 208 E. Locust Street , P.O. Box 381, Oxford, PA 19363

Phone: 610-932-3838 3p-20-3t

Classifieds

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On Feb. 16, former longtime Philadelphia Eagle Jon Dorenbos captivated the audience with his extraordinary blend of magic, storytelling and charisma during “An Evening with Jon Dorenbos.”

Immaculata University played host to an enchanting evening of magic, inspiration and entertainment as Dorenbos took center stage.

The event was organized in partnership with the Chester County Intermediate Unit (CCIU) and Immaculata University to provide entertainment with a meaningful message.

Dorenbos is now a worldrenowned magician and motivational speaker. The

Magical night unfolds at ‘An Evening with Jon Dorenbos’

event showcased Dorenbos’ unique talents, both on and off the football field, providing the audience with an intimate look into Jon’s heart-rending story of compassion, forgiveness and grit.

Throughout the evening, Dorenbos shared his inspiring story, weaving together his experiences as a long snapper in the NFL with his magical prowess. More than just a show, the event was an opportunity for attendees to witness the magic of Dorenbos live and to be inspired by his transformative journey from adversity to resilience, exemplifying the human capacity to persevere

through life’s challenges.

“We are delighted to have collaborated on ‘An Evening with Jon Dorenbos,’ an event that not only entertained but also inspired attendees with messages of resilience and positivity,” Andrew Reigle, the supervisor of training and consultation at the CCIU. “At the Chester County Intermediate Unit, we are dedicated to promoting student well-being and mental health awareness. Events like this provide valuable opportunities for our community to come together, engage in meaningful dialogue and find inspiration in the stories shared.”

Real estate mogul DJ Wootson found opportunity at Cecil College

As a 19-year-old from Wilmington, Del., all DJ (Dwayne) Wootson needed was an opportunity. But growing up as a young black man on the streets of that city, there were few opportunities until the fateful day when he met Cecil College men’s basketball coach Bill Lewit.

Coach Lewit was looking for hidden talent when he offered Wootson a chance to compete on the collegiate level, and Wootson grabbed that opportunity with both hands.

“Before Coach Lewit, I had nothing going for me. I was a good high school

basketball player, but there were no offers beyond that level. I was a subpar student in high school who barely graduated. Then Coach Lewit gave me an opportunity to come to Cecil College,” said Wootson, who became Cecil College’s all-time leading scorer.

Coach Lewit had the knack for finding “diamond in the rough” players, and in 1995, that diamond was Wootson. Coach Lewit talked to the young man about his vision for his future and what he had to offer if Wootson came to play for Cecil College.

“When you are young and

Obituaries

DOLORES HAMMAKER

Dolores Hammaker passed away on March 11, 2024 at the age of 85.

She was known to many as “Dee.”

She graduated from Drexel University and taught at Philadelphia high schools. She enjoyed gardening, needlepoint, holiday decorating, and crossword puzzles.

She is survived by Robert, her spouse of over 62 years; her son Jeffrey and his wife Susan; and her brother, Joseph Rodriguez.

She will be greatly missed by family and friends.

Services will be private.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Longwood Fire Company, 1001 East Baltimore Pike, Kennett Square, Pa. 19348.

RODNEY L. JENNINGS

Rodney L. Jennings, 70, of Nottingham, passed away on March 15, 2024 at Chester County Hospital.

Born in Wilmington, Del., he was the son of the late Marvin James Jennings and the late Edith Mae Powers Wilson.

Rodney was a retired truck driver. Soon after retiring, Rodney started a lawn care service.

He was a member of Cornerstone Baptist Church in Street, Md.

Rodney enjoyed old cars, hot-rods and motorcycles. He is survived by one brother, James Jennings and two sisters, Patricia Carroll and Tamela Fulton. He was preceded in death by one brother, Michael Jennings and two sisters, Diana Lyons and Judy Case. A graveside service will be held at 1 p.m. on Wednesday, March 20 at Fremont Union Cemetery, 321 Fremont Rd., Nottingham.

Arrangements are being handled by the Edward L. Collins, Jr. Funeral Home, Inc. in Oxford. Online condolences may be made at www.elcollinsfuneralhome.com.

come from where I came from, you are looking for people to give you an opportunity. Coach Lewit offered me that opportunity,” said Wootson, who embraced what Coach Lewit had to say and the future he was facilitating for the young man. “I can truly say Coach Lewit saved me because I had no other options at the time. If not here, then where and what?”

For Wootson, Cecil County starkly contrasted high school. Initially, college was about the opportunity to continue playing basketball, but soon, he realized and learned something about himself—he was an outstanding student. With the assistance and support of professors like Dr. Paul Bauer, Wootson excelled in the classroom as much as he did on the court. He went on to graduate from Cecil College with a 3.7 GPA.

“Dr. Paul Bauer was a phenomenal teacher. He changed my life and many other guys’ lives by making us thinkers. He turned us into critical thinkers, supporting us on and off the court,” said Wootson. “Cecil College provided me with a sense of maturity and stability. Cecil County

was a change of pace for me, where there wasn’t much to do but basketball and academics. It provided the perfect opportunity as a contrast from where I came from.”

Wootson also credits his academic success to Coach Lewit’s three rules for his players: be on time and, if you cannot be on time, be early. Do what you are supposed to do when you are supposed to do it to the best of your ability. No one is guaranteed one second of playing time. You have to earn it by being a good citizen and getting it done in the classroom. His performance on the hardwood matched Wootson’s accomplishments in the classroom. For the 1998-1999 season, he was named First Team AllMaryland Junior College Athletic Conference, First Team All-NJCAA Region 20, NJCAA Region 20 Tournament MVP, and First-Team NJCAA National Tournament. Wootson led the Seahawks to the 1999 NJCAA Region 20 Championship and the NJCAA national tournament.

In his 62-game career, he averaged 24.5 points per game (PG), 5.3 assists PG, 3.5 rebounds PG, and 1.9

steals PG to become Cecil College’s all-time leading scorer with 1,519 points. Wootson completed his collegiate career playing at Georgia State for legendary coach Charles Grice “Lefty” Driesell while completing his bachelor’s degree.

Wootson took the lessons he learned at Cecil College and established his real estate development company in Nashville

Obituaries

EMIDIO FREZZO JR.

Emidio “Junior” Frezzo, Jr., a longtime resident of Kennett Square, passed away peacefully on March 16, 2024 at the Jenners Pond Retirement Community. He was 87. He was the husband of Barbara Mason Frezzo, with whom he shared 44 years of marriage.

Born in West Chester, he was a son of the late Emidio Frezzo Sr. and the late Josephine Delaurentis Frezzo. Junior served our country in the U.S. Army.

He was a progressive mushroom grower who was eager to learn, develop, and implement new techniques in the agricultural field. He was a second-generation mushroom grower and owned and operated Emidio Frezzo Jr., Inc. until he retired in 2005. He served as president of the American Mushroom Institute, and on several boards of directors, including a number of local banks and businesses.

He enjoyed traveling for both business and pleasure, especially to Italy where he visited extended family many times. He celebrated his Italian heritage. A kind and generous man known for his smile and humor, Junior loved being with his family and friends. Junior also loved golfing, playing cards, and spending time with friends at the Kennett Square Country Club.

over the past decade, building apartment complexes and owning multi-family housing facilities. His commitment and focus on his business and family have grown to a portfolio of more than $30 million.

“I always tell people Cecil Community College is where I got my start. This is where I grew up and became a man. This was the start of my life,” said Wootson.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his brothers, Guido Frezzo and Gabriel Frezzo, and his sister, Louise DiMarco.

In addition to his wife Barbara, Junior is survived by his son, Scott DiStefano and his wife, Christina, of Maryland, two grandchildren, Nina Romeo (Anthony) and Lianna, and great-granddaughter Aria Romeo. Junior is also survived by his siblings, Joseph Frezzo, James Frezzo (Virginia), and brother-in-law Frank DiMarco along with many loved nieces and nephews. Due to capacity, parking, and convenience, Junior’s viewing will be at Church of the Advent at 401 N. Union St. in Kennett Square from 9 to 10:45 a.m. on Friday March 22. His funeral mass of Christian burial will follow at 11 a.m. at St. Patrick Catholic Church at 212 Meredith St. in Kennett Square.

Interment will follow in St. Patrick Cemetery, Kennett Square.

Memorial donations in his memory may be made to St. Patrick Catholic Church, 205 Lafayette, St. Kennett Square, Pa. 19348.

Arrangements are being handled by Matthew Grieco of Grieco Funeral Home & Crematory, Inc. (484-7348100) of Kennett Square.

To view Junior’s online tribute and to share a memory with his family, please visit www.griecofunerals. com.

Courtesy photo

Jon Dorenbos enjoyed a successful NFL career as a Philadelphia Eagle. Dorenbos is now a world-renowned magician and motivational speaker and recently performed in Chester County.

Courtesy photo

DJ (Dwayne) Wootson got his start on the path to a successful career at Cecil College.

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