The agenda of the Oxford School Board’s April 12 work session was topped by a discussion about the district’s proposed budget for the 2016-2017 school year.
Lawmakers in Harrisburg recently finalized the state budget for the current fiscal year—nine months after the deadline—so officials at Pennsylvania’s 500 public schools finally have a clearer picture of the state subsidies that each district will receive for the 2015-16 school year. Approximately
one-third of Oxford Area School District’s revenues come from funding from the state, so a significant piece of the budgetary puzzle had been missing.
Brian Cooney, the business administrator for the Oxford Area School District, shared some good financial news with the school board. Since the budget deal that state lawmakers approved included additional funding for public schools, Oxford will be receiving a slightly larger state subsidy than it had budgeted for in the 201516 budget. Cooney said that
By Steven Hoffman Staff Writer
The Oxford School Board voted to appoint Becky Fetterolf to fill the vacancy of an at-large seat on the board at a special meeting on April 12.
The meeting began with the school board interviewing the three candidates who applied to fill the vacancy that was created when Joe Starcheski resigned from the board on March 15: Fetterolf, Donna Arrowood, and Mimma D’ Aquanno.
School board president Richard Orpneck outlined the process that the board would follow to fill the vacancy, explaining that the same five questions would be asked of each candidate. Members of the school board would then
New Garden continues sewer sale negotiations U-CF School Board hears proposal for strategic plan
By Richard L. Gaw Staff Writer
New Garden Township has announced that it will continue talks to sell its sewage system to the one company who has remained in the bidding process for the purchase of the system, since it first kicked off last November.
As spelled out in the township supervisors’ meeting on April 14, Spence Andress, a member of the township’s Sewer Authority Board, provided a summary of the work already done on the possible sale of the sys-
tem to Aqua Pennsylvania Wastewater, Inc. – a roadmap of meetings, proposals and analysis that is anticipated to lead to the final sale at the supervisors’ meeting on June 20.
Late last year, the township sent out request for proposals [RFP] in order to determine potential interest and qualifications from outside companies. They received initial proposals from the following interested parties: Aqua Pennsylvania Wastewater, Inc.; the Pennsylvania American Water Company, based in Vorhees, N.J.; and
Thousands flock to Chadds Ford antique show
By Richard L. Gaw Staff Writer
those who were attempting to get to the event through the traffic that the event was creating, that estimate seemed woefully small.
Even before event organizer Lisa Vonderstruck of Brandywine View Antiques cut the ribbon at 9 a.m. to Continued on Page 2A
Chester-based Delcora. Contained in each proposal were unique provisions and approaches to the potential structure of a sale, which included not only monetary offers but other components, including capital improvements, future rate increases and expanded infrastructure.
Over the next several months, three addendums were tacked on to the original RFP, and on March 18, when responses to the addendums were received, the township learned that two of the three bidding companies – Pennsylvania
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By John Chambless Staff Writer
The long path toward a strategic plan process for the Unionville-Chadds Ford School District was the focus of a long discussion at the school board’s April 18 meeting, which was held at Hillendale Elementary School.
The evening started with a packed house of family members and students who came to see certificates awarded to young partici-
By Uncle Irvin
pants in the LEGO Robotics competition by Hillendale principal Steve Dissinger. Family members were also present to see tributes to retiring teachers Daniel
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Photo by Richard L. Gaw
A steady stream of marketgoers lined the entrance throughout the day.
2016 Home and Garden Day Tour set for June 4
June 4 marks the 25th anniversary of the annual Home and Garden Day Tour benefiting the Kennett Public Library’s children’s programs and the adult literacy program.
This year’s tour, “Chadds Ford and Beyond” will explore an amazing variety of homes and gardens offering something for every interest.
Tour goers will see an
1843 farmhouse with an assortment of antique carriages and cars, a charming converted school house, an historic Inn and a spectacular garden oasis once featured in Martha Stewart Living. Each stop offers fascinating homes and gardens seldom seen by the public.
As always, visitors will be able to sample food and beverages from local restaurants and merchants. Many homes
will feature floral arrangements from area florists and garden clubs, as well as local artists in some of the gardens.
Tickets for the tour are $40, but an early bird special is available from April 18 to May 8 when tickets are $35. Tickets may be purchased online at www. kennettpubliclibrary.org, in person at the library, or by phone at 610-444-2702.
Antiques...
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welcome the first wave of attendees, hundreds more lined the entrance to what became a small village of curiosity. Throughout the picturesque spring morning and afternoon, more than 80 vendors joined 11 food and beverage stations to form avenues of antiques, collectibles, deals and negotiations.
Meanwhile, outside of the event grounds, traffic was a bottleneck of vehicles along Route 1 and Route 100, as local and state police – joined by volunteers -directed visitors to parking lots, which were half filled by the beginning of the event.
Almost immediately, comparisons were being made by vendors to the first Massive Barn Market, held last year, that drew 50 vendors, a few food trucks, and about 1,500 visitors.
“This is wonderful,” said Downingtown antique dealer Dave Wojo, who was joined by his wife, Jo Ann. “We’re here to see what’s selling, and we were completely taken aback by the amount of people who are here. I’ve never seen anything like this in this
Fetterolf...
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candidate or candidates to fill the vacancy. The board would then take roll call votes on each candidate with each board member voting “yes” or “no.” Board members were free to vote “yes” on as many candidates as they wanted. The candidate who received the most “yes” votes would be person to fill the vacancy—as long as they earned a minimum of five votes, which is a majority of the nine-member board.
Arrowood was the first person to apply for
area. We’ve seen everything from hand-painted artistry to older furniture that’s been re-purposed. There are vendors who are creating a shabby chic look with old furniture. There’s so much exposure here for vendors and dealers. You’ll never see this kind of crowd at any single antique store.”
For other vendors, the market served as a showcase.
“My work has a vintage feel so it fits in nicely here,” said Jenny Alexander of Painted Lily near Lancaster, who has been in business for 11 years and sells to customers around the world. “Lisa has been doing the show circuit and been in business in the area for a long time, so she knows everyone. She can simply send an e-mail and say, ‘You’ve got to come!’ It’s not only a great retail opportunity, but it gives vendors like me the chance to do wholesale sales as well.”
A second Massive Barn Market is scheduled for Oct. 8 at the Barn Visitors Center.
To contact Staff Writer Richard L. Gaw, e-mail rgaw@chestercounty.com.
the vacancy, so she was also the first person to be interviewed.
She has strong ties to the Oxford Area School District, having retired from the district after working in the business office for 30 years. She also served for four years on the school board, and was a board president for several years. Four generations of Arrowood’s family have also attended Oxford’s schools.
“I love this school district,” Arrowood said. “It’s been the main focus of my life.”
Fetterolf, who ran for a seat on the school board in 2015, was the next candidate to be interviewed.
Like Arrowood, Fetterolf has strong roots in Oxford.
Several generations of her family attended Oxford schools, and Fetterolf is a 1998 graduate of Oxford Area High School. She also has significant community involvement, coaching soccer, lacrosse, and junior robotics.
Fetterolf has a background in education, and works as a professional learning manager. Fetterolf said that her work requires her to stay informed about policies and trends in education, and she would bring her knowledge about educational issues to her duties on the school board. She said that she wants the best education possible for students in the district, including her three children.
“I want to make sure that their educational experience is as valuable as mine was,” Fetterolf explained.
Next, the board interviewed D’ Aquanno. She has two children, one currently in Oxford schools and another who will be attending Oxford schools.
D’ Aquanno said that, as a parent, she felt a duty to be involved with the school
district and her children’s education.
She said that one of her strengths as a board member would be her ability to work well with others.
D’ Aquanno said that her main goal would be to ensure that Oxford provides the best education possible for students with the resources that are available.
Once the interviews were completed, the school board began its discussion.
Board member Howard Robinson noted that Arrowood already served the school district as a board member, and had proven herself to be very capable in that role. He also said that she had already demonstrated that she is willing to put in the work necessary.
Board member Lorraine Durnan Bell acknowledged that Arrowood would be an asset if she were appointed to fill a vacancy. But Bell added that Fetterolf, with her background in education and extensive community involvement, would be an asset, too. When it came time for the school board to make its nominations, all three candidates were nominated—hardly a surprise considering their qualifications and dedication to the school district.
Robinson nominated Arrowood, Bell nominated Fetterolf, and board member Mark Patterson nominated D’ Aquanno.
When the vote was taken, Fetterolf received the most “yes’ votes with seven. She was promptly sworn in as a new school board member. Fetterolf will serve until the next school board election takes place in November of 2017.
To contact Staff Writer Steven Hoffman, email editor@chestercounty.com.
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Roe as their write-in candidate.
Roe is vying with fellow Republican Perry Bentley as well as Susan Rzucidlo, a community activist who is the endorsed Democrat for the 148th seat. Rzucidlo, who blew the whistle on the faulty Rivera filing, has run for the seat for the last three terms, losing to Ross in the General Election.
Rzucidlo is now openly campaigning for Republicans to write her in the GOP ballot. If Rzucidlo pulls this off, she would win the district with both the Republican and Democrat ballot slots in the General Election in November. Uncle Irvin endorsed Rzucidlo in her 2014 campaign against Ross, and I am endorsing her candidacy once again. Rzucidlo is a well-known community activist and is not by any means a politician ... but more of a reformer. (Uncle Irvin’s column is his opinion only, and is not a news story.)
Uncle Irvin...
As the new owner of an antique mirror, this buyer negotiated his way through the large crowds.
Photos (3) by Richard L. Gaw
Several artisans displayed their work.
The second annual Massive Barn Market on April 16 drew a crowd estimated to be 5,000, as well as more than 80 vendors.
Oxford is now expected to see an increase of $357,000 in state funding for the 2015-2016 school year. Additionally, the amount that the district receives as part of the Ready To Learn Grant is going up slightly. Oxford is now expecting to receive $226,000 through the Ready To Learn Grant, which is approximately a 51 percent increase over the previous year.
That’s the good news. The bad news is that projected expenditures continue to out-pace revenues, largely because of state-mandated increases to the Public School Employees’ Retirement System (PSERS). Cooney said that total expenditures for 2016-17 are now projected at $65,663,336, which is an increase of about $2,269,456, or 3.58 percent over the current school year. More than half of the increase can be attributed to PSERS contributions alone.
Oxford’s Act 1 Index limit for this year is 3.3 percent— that’s the maximum amount that taxes can be raised without seeking approval from voters through a referendum. The Oxford Area School District administration is recommending a one-percent increase in the tax rate for 2016-17 to balance the budget.
Cooney explained that a one-percent tax increase would hike the millage rate from 30.5347 mills to 30.84
U-CF plan...
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Cipollini and Janet Jennings from Patton Middle School, and to Unionville Elementary School nurse Cheryl Fulginiti, who is resigning at the end of the school year.
The bulk of the meeting was devoted to a presentation by Andy Hegedus, a representative of a strategic planning company called Demosophia. He outlined the company’s methods and how they would proceed if they are granted a contract by the district to conduct a strategic plan, beginning this summer.
Board president Victor Dupuis said, “When we started this conversation two years ago, one of the questions that the board posed to itself was, ‘What is it about districts that are considered to be the best in the nation? What are the tangible and intangible factors that separate Unionville-Chadds Ford from those districts? How can we get a plan of action to pursue those factors, to take us to another level as a district?’
“Is it realistic to think that we will go through this process and arrive at a conclusion that says, ‘These are the places that your various stakeholders have identified as opportunities to make significant improvements as a district,” Dupuis said. “Can we get to that place through this process?”
Hegedus said he believed the process would work, explaining, “What we’ve found is that expertise is best leveraged in trying to find out how to move forward with specific issues. That’s why we engage the community in this first part, designing where the leverage points are, and then expertise comes into play to figure out the best way to take those leverage points and move them forward.”
School district superintendent John Sanville
mills. For the average taxpayer, that equates to a $40 increase in the tax bill.
The school board will vote to adopt a final budget for 2016-2017 in June.
In other business at the April 12 meeting, Joseph Lubitsky, the director of administration for the Chester County Intermediate Unit made a presentation about the Chester County Intermediate Unit’s budget for 2016-2017.
There will be no increase in core budget contributions, which amount to about $20,657 for Oxford, Lubitsky said. The Chester County Intermediate Unit’s occupational education budget is projected to be $26.4 million to provide career and training programs to students in the 12 school districts served by the Chester County Intermediate Unit.
Three-year average enrollment figures are used to determine how much each school district contributes to the occupational education budget. Oxford now has more than 200 students attending classes at the Pennock’s Bridge campus.
“Our enrollment continues to climb,” Lubitsky said.
The Oxford School Board will meet again on Tuesday, May 10 and Tuesday, May 17. Both meetings will take place at 7 p.m. in the administration building.
To contact Staff Writer Steven Hoffman, email editor@chestercounty.com.
explained, “We have a two-rail track going with regard to strategic planning. In June, there will be a discussion at the work session and a voting item at the June board meeting regarding awarding a contract to Demosophia. The parallel track to that is the line item funding that is in the current budget for the 2016-2017 school year that also requires board approval. We’ll have opportunities for discussion next month and again in June. There’s a point that Dr. Hegedus made, and that is, in order for the strategic plan process to be successful, the board has to own it. We have to all stand in the same place where we’re comfortable moving forward.”
In a later discussion of the issue, board member Gregg Lindner said, “After hearing the presentation today, I would like to hear from one of the other companies which submitted proposals. I almost don’t care which one. But I’d like to hear somebody else’s point of view on a strategic plan process. My question is not about whether to do it, but my thought is that maybe we should get another approach to it.”
Board member Michael
New 10K run supports Operation Warm Coats for Kids Foundation
Operation Warm Coats for Kids Foundation recently announced that the inaugural RUN INSPIRED 10K road race will be held on Sunday, Oct. 23 from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. on the grounds of the Winterthur Museum, Garden and Library in Winterthur, Del. All proceeds will benefit Operation Warm, whose goal is to raise awareness for child poverty and provide brandnew winter coats to local children in need.
The force behind RUN INSPIRED’s creation is Dick Sanford, the founder of Operation Warm Coats for Kids. His inspiration to create a road race to benefit at-risk children began several years ago when his grandson, Nik Toocheck, ran in marathons in different parts of the world for children.
“Nik ran his first marathon at the age of nine to raise money for Operation Warm,” explained Sanford. Within two years, he became the youngest person to run a marathon on all seven continents, raising $42,000 in the process. “I was so inspired by his dedication and selflessness,” continued Sanford. “I knew I wanted to put on a race of my own to help even more children in need.”
While Nik was on his
Rock said, “I don’t remember us ever having a conversation about what we want to get out of a strategic plan. Before we vote on having somebody do a strategic planning exercise for us, I’d like the board to have a discussion of this set of issues. If we don’t, I don’t know what we’re getting into. I didn’t feel encouraged about what we’re going to get out of this thing.”
Board member Robert Sage, who has been heading the strategic planning process, said, “Dr. Sanville and I listened to the other approaches and I think they are distinct. I would ask that if we all read the proposals, if that’s not sufficient to understand the differences and the methods.”
Sanville added, “It’s less than a month away, so I don’t think we’ll have time for somebody else to come in. We had five vendors that submitted responses, and all five have different procedures. The inclusive approach that Demosophia had was why we made that recommendation.”
Linder answered, “I read through all five proposals. I have purchased similar services, but for businesses. It’s a very different process for
quest to run every continent, he became friends with running legend Dave McGillvray, race director of the B.A.A. Boston Marathon. It wasn’t long before Dick approached Dave to help him create a one-of-a-kind race in the Delaware Valley.
“When I first met Dick and he told me of his vision to put on a world-class race that would benefit children, I was immediately intrigued,” said McGillvray. “Nowadays, road races are so popular. I knew he would need a truly special location to pull this off. That’s when Dick took me to Winterthur.”
Winterthur Museum, Garden and Library is the former Delaware estate home of Henry Francis du Pont, which has been open to the public for the last 60 years. This world-renowned property is filled with serene meadows, rippling streams, historic buildings and a 60-acre naturalistic garden, which includes the Enchanted Woods. Winterthur is known for its annual Point-to-Point Steeplechase horse race that has drawn over 15,000 spectators each spring for the last 38 years.
“The first time I set foot on Winterthur’s property – I knew we had something spe-
education. I can see pros and cons in the different proposals, and it made a difference to me to hear what was said tonight, versus what I read.”
At this point, a contract to perform a strategic planning process has not been awarded, although Demosophia was judged to be the leading candidate, Sage said.
The district’s budget process will be discussed at a public meeting scheduled May 2 at 7 p.m. in the Administrative Conference Room (750 Unionville Rd., Kennett Square). If necessary, more public meetings will be held May 3 and 4. The board is scheduled to vote on the the proposed final budget on May 16. For updated information, visit www.ucfsd.org.
To contact Staff Writer John Chambless, email jchambless@chestercounty. com.
cial,” explained McGillvray. “Whenever we create a new race, we want to ensure it meets the high standards our runners deserve. This course is unique. You’ve got rolling hills, scenic views; it’s the perfect backdrop for a race.”
Working with Jill Abbott, Winterthur’s Events Director, the 6.2mile course was laid out to Dave’s specifications, and the development of the event began. By winter, plans were solidified and RUN INSPIRED 10K was born. RUN INSPIRED 10K will be the first road race of its kind to take place throughout the 1,000-acre preserve.
“We couldn’t be more excited to have runners across the Mid-Atlantic participate in such a unique event,” expressed Erin McMullin, Event Manager.
“We said it from the beginning; we want this to be more than a race. Between the location, course layout,
and family-friendly finisher’s party, it will truly be an inspiring event for everyone. And knowing we’ll be able to help provide brand new coats to thousands of kids in need will help Operation Warm expand its mission.”
Bib pick-up and day-of registration starts at 8 a.m. and the race will begin at 9:30 a.m., rain or shine, on Sunday, Oct. 23. All participants and spectators are welcome to join the Finishers Party, from 10:15 a.m. to 2 p.m.. Experience live musical entertainment, refreshments, including food trucks and a beer garden, various exhibitors and vendors, and family-friendly games and activities. Registration is now available online through www. runINSPIREDraces.com.
For more information on the event, to volunteer, or to become a sponsor, visit runINSPIREDraces.com or email Erin McMullin at erin@operationwarm.org.
Public Safety Day draws a crowd in Penn Township
By Nancy Johnson Correspondent
West Grove Fire Company representatives were on hand to answer questions
the beginning. Visitors could learn the basics of CPR and get a feel for just how dangerous impaired driving is by trying the DUI simulator.
Many other groups, such as Smart Drive, ServPro, Jennersville Hospital, AGREM, OXREM, and the Pennsylvania State Police,
hosted information booths.
As he unloaded some old computers from a vehicle, Jim Maguire of Sycamore Technology and Repair in West Grove said, “Our main priority today is date security. We will pull the hard drives and wipe them out, then we separate everything by
category for recycling. We have a zero landfill policy.”
Maguire explained that the bulk of Sycamore’s business is serving K-12 schools. They buy computers and other electronics from schools that are replacing their equipment. Then they upgrade the equipment and re-sell it to
another school. Sycamore has recently added a repair service at their West Grove site which is open to the public. Their specialty is repairing medical and educational technology equipment, like iPads and other tablets, as well as laptops. Many visitors took
advantage of the free document shredding service. Before the event began, a long line for shredding had formed. The operator from Shred One, who had the truck running nearly continuously throughout the four-hour event, reported that it was a good pace of customers. At the conclusion of the event, the truck was nearly full. After dropping off documents for shredding and/or e-waste for disposal, people were directed to park at Jennersville Hospital. Chesco Bus then ran a shuttle service back and forth to the event.
“We wanted to give it a trial run before we use it at the picnic in the fall,” Versuk said. “It worked great, plus it’s a good way for people to get more familiar with the service offered by Chester County.”
Photo by Nancy Johnson Jim Maguire of Sycamore Technology Service and Repair collected a variety of computers
printers for recycling.
Photo by Nancy Johnson Tammy Whiteman of Medic 94 instructs a young man in the importance of knowing how to administer CPR.
Photo by Nancy Johnson
Amy Collins, who works for West Grove State Farm agent Linda Ingenthrone, demonstrates the DUI simulator.
Photo by Nancy Johnson
Representatives of the Chester County Sheriff’s Office were pleased with the drug take-back drop box, which was filled to capacity. Penn Township’s chairman of the Board of Supervisors, Curtis Mason (right), enjoys a snack.
Photo by Nancy Johnson
from the public.
American Water Company and Delcora – had chosen to withdraw from consideration.
In order to determine the best path toward the sale, a committee was formed made up of members of the sewer authority board; two of the township’s supervisors; Tony Scheivert, the township’s manager; township solicitor Vince Pompo; and Andress. The group has looked into several components of the potential sale, including potential rates, capital investments, and return on investments for the township. The committee also hired AUS Consultants to determine the dollar value of the entire system, as well as attorney Steven Goldfield to help the committee structure the language and nuances of the potential transaction.
As part of their involvement, AUS presented a cost study report to the committee last September, and followed it up with a business enterprise valuation report last December.
During the next two to three months, as negotiations between the township and Aqua Pennsylvania Wastewater, Inc. move forward, the committee will grapple with how the proceeds from the sale of the sewer system will be distributed. The committee has been tossing several potential areas of need in the township, which include the idea of using the proceeds to pay down the township’s debt; creating programs to stimulate economic development and investment in the township; freezing sewer rates; developing public safety improvements; dedicating funds toward open space preservation; and potential capital improvements.
“That’s been a question that’s come to the board on several occasions in the past,” Andress said. “‘If the sale goes through, what are you going to do with the money?’ That will be addressed, and input will be solicited from the public.”
Another pending talking point will be how the potential sale of the system will affect local sewer rates in the township. The public will be made aware of any additional details of the potential sale, as well as be given at last two
opportunities to voice their opinion to the supervisors and committee.
A primary reason the township is exploring the concept of selling may have a lot to do with the fact that many of those in the know consider the current sewer system to be woefully outdated. The Toughkenamon stretch of the system was installed in 1969; another section was built in 1998; and the system in Somerset Lake was built in 2001 – all sure signs that there could be trouble in the future, given that the life expectancy of these systems range from 25 to 45 years.
Andress said at the November meeting that over the next seven to nine years, the township will be expected to spend between $9 million to $12 million to upgrade or replace these systems – if it chooses to maintain ownership of its sewage system.
If the township is able to sign off on the sale with Aqua Pennsylvania Wastewater, Inc., its stands to make a huge profit, and a quick look around the area proves it. In 2013, Allentown leased its water authority for a period of 50 years, and in doing so, helped avert a potential financial crisis. Middletown Borough in Dauphin County sold its sewage system for $43 million last year.
Yet, while having a private company operate a township’s sewer system may be able to lower monthly and yearly taxpayer rates by economy of scale, what a large company may chose to do in the future to expand the system is a question that is also expected to be raised.
Close to home, Coatesville sold its system to the Pennsylvania American Water Company for $48 million in 2001, and soon after, the company froze any rate increases for a period of three years. During that time, however, the company made improvements to the outdated system that numbered well into the millions, ultimately turning to local residents to pay for it. Currently, Coatesville taxpayers are paying 282 percent more in sewer rates per month than they did when the sale was finalized 15 years ago.
At the meeting, former supervisor Robert Perotti raised another potential red flag, should the township
follow through with the sale of its sewage system: the possibility for more development in the township.
“These companies are in business to do more business, to sell more sewer systems,” he said. “Do you think there will be an explosion of housing in New Garden Township? When that plant was built in Somerset Lake to furnish sewer for [the development], it turned into 715 homes between there and Hartefeld...and another 120 homes or so across the street. If you don’t think that sewer brings development, then I think you’re wrong.
“I would urge the board to consider the fact that selling this is going to make this township explode.”
Pompo insisted to Perotti that there are mechanisms to put into place during the negotiations, in order to avoid going beyond the existing service areas.
“A lot of information has been made available to the supervisors, the sewer authority and to some extent the public, but this is a work in progress,” Andress said. “No decisions have been made yet, and there are still a number of issues to be worked through.
“We’re not going to talk dollars and cents tonight, but I think in general terms, it’s fair to say that compared to the initial responses that were received, the current response [from Aqua Pennsylvania Wastewater, Inc.] is significantly better in a number of ways.”
To contact Staff Writer Richard L. Gaw, e-mail rgaw@chestercounty.com.
Penn’s Grove school teacher receives Heart of Learning Award
Penn’s Grove Middle School teacher Carol Wiegner is the Oxford Area School District’s recipient of the 2016 Citadel Heart of Learning Award sponsored by Citadel Federal Credit Union and the Chester County Intermediate Unit. The annual award recognizes the outstanding job Chester County’s teachers perform in educating and caring for our young people.
Wiegner teaches seventh grade language arts and has been at Penn’s Grove for 15 years. She is a member of the school’s Core Data Team, which gathers and analyzes data to develop strategies for meeting the academic needs of all Penn’s Grove students.
In addition to the award, Wiegner received $500 for classroom use. She is now one of 15 finalists for the county Heart of Learning Award which will be announced at the annual awards banquet in May.
“When I came to Penn’s Grove at the beginning of the school year, I could see right away that Carol is a teacher who gets to know her students and works hard to meet their needs and help them to give their best effort in the classroom,” said assistant principal Kristen Chastain. “She is a teacher whom other teachers look up to and administrators can always depend on. We are extremely proud to have Carol at Penn’s Grove.”
Wiegner and her hus-
Kim Jarvis, manager of the Oxford branch of Citadel Federal Credit Union, presents Oxford Area High School principal Christopher Dormer with a check for $500, which the high school earned for having the third-highest number of teacher nominations among Chester County schools for the 2016 Citadel Heart of Learning Award.
band, Harry, live in Lincoln University and have two children, Hailey, 11, and Samantha, 8. Additionally, as part of the accompanying Schools with Heart program, Oxford Area
High School received $500 from Citadel Federal Credit Union for having the third highest number of teacher nominations among Chester County schools for the Heart of Learning Award.
Courtesy Photos (2)
Pictured from left are Penn’s Grove Middle School Principal James Canaday; Carol Wiegner, the Oxford Area School District’s winner of the 2016 Citadel Heart of Learning Award; assistant principal Kristen Chastain; and Kim Jarvis, manager of the Oxford branch of Citadel Federal Credit Union.
Mushroom Festival awards $85,000 in grants
“As
By Carla Lucas Correspondent
region’s emergency services, and help families in need.
The local organizations are at work in the Kennett Square, West Grove, and Oxford areas of Pennsylvania, as well as in New Castle County, Del.
The grant reception and check presentation to recipients was the culminating event of the 2015 Mushroom Festival and kicks off the start of the 31st annual festival in 2016. This year, the festival awarded $85,000 in grants and donations, bringing its total awards to $805,000 since 2000. The Mushroom Festival also made its first donation, as part of a multiyear commitment, to The City of Hope’s new cancer research program using mushrooms. Also, the Honorary Chairperson of the previous year’s Mushroom Festival selects a non-profit organization to donate $1,000 in their honor. RoRo Ferrante, 2015’s Honorary Chairperson, chose the ALS Society this year.
Mushroom Festival 2016 Grants
Adult Care of Chester County received funds toward the purchase of a new shower chair, therapeutic games, and raised bed planters.
The ALS Society received funds to meet the equipment needs of Chester County patients with ALS.
Avondale Fire Company’s grant will purchase a portable radio to be used for interior firefighting.
The Barn at Spring Brook Farm received funds for new equipment for each of The Barn’s five therapy horses.
Bournelyf Special Camp will use their funds for programrelated transportation costs to off-site locations for canoeing, hiking, and other activities.
Camp Dreamcatcher’s grant will allow three HIV/ ADS-impacted youth to attend summer camp.
Canine Partners for Life received funds to purchase customized hardware for the service dogs’ harnesses.
Chester County Council, Boy Scouts of America will use its grant to send scouts to National Youth Leadership Training and STEM Camp.
Chester County SPCA’s grant will be used to purchase pet food for low-income families that can no longer afford to feed their pets as a temporary solution to keep families from having to give their pets away.
Chester County Women’s Services received a grant to purchase baby supplies for at-risk parents participating in their program at the Kennett Square satellite center.
Delaware Zoological Society (Brandywine Zoo) received funds for materials and supplies for their “Boo in the Zoo” event, and to build kestrel nesting boxes in Delaware.
The Domestic Violence Center of Chester County received funds to support their Kennett Square satellite office.
Family Promise of Southern Chester County’s grant funds the purchase of a computer projector, screen and speakers for training volunteers and community presentations.
Friends Home of Kennett Square will use its grant to purchase two electric lift recliner chairs for their patients.
Friends of Auburn Heights Preserve received funds to develop a new, interactive exhibit highlighting the Stanley Motor Carriage Company.
Good Neighbors’ grant will allow it to make a critical van repair to one of their work vans.
Head Start of Kennett Square will purchase book bags and school supplies to give to their children transitioning to kindergarten.
Historic East Linden Project’s grant will purchase a new computer for their computer lab for the Study Buddies program.
Historic Kennett Square’s grant will be used to present the Memorial Day Parade.
Jonathan Beech Memorial Concert will use its funds to cover part of the cost of putting on the event.
Kennett After Prom received a grant to provide entertainment for the after-prom event.
Kennett After-School Association’s grant will be put toward after-school transportation costs for the After-the-Bell program.
Kennett High School Walk in Knowledge program received funds to provide transportation for college visits, snacks and supplies for their after-school program.
Kennett Area Parks Authority will use its funds to produce
the Summer Concert Series at Anson B. Nixon Park.
Kennett Area Parks and Recreation Board received funds for beautification at Herb Pennock Park and program expenses for the KAPRB Cross Country Race.
Kennett Education Foundation’s grant will fund educational grants for educators and students in KCSD.
Kennett Fire Company received a grant to purchase two AEDs (defibrilators) for use on their vehicles.
Kennett Flash will use its grant to purchase furniture and equipment to support a variety of programs at the venue.
Kennett Area YMCA’s grant will purchase program materials and supplies, and pay for field trip admissions and busing for its Kennett Borough Summer Camp.
La Communida Hispana will purchase a medication refrigerator and other equipment and supplies for the new pediatric services they are providing at their center.
Land Conservancy of Southern Chester County’s grant will provide transportation to the preserves for environmental educational programs.
Lighthouse Youth Center received funds toward purchasing incentives for students to receive upon meeting specific goals throughout the year.
Longwood Fire Company received funds toward the purchase of a McGrath MAC EMS Video Laryngoscope.
Meals on Wheels funds will provide meals to senior residents at Luther House, Jennersville.
Operation Homefront will use its grant to supply emergency financial assistance to military families in this region.
Oxford Arts Alliance will use its funds to purchase materials, stools and tables for a new clay/ ceramic studio. Paws for People will purchase items for a kit that will help trained pet-therapy teams interact better with their visitors.
Smart
The Garage’s grant will allow them to purchase program supplies for the Kennett Square and West Grove Garages. Tick Tock Early Learning Center’s grant will fund program supplies and special activities to enhance their curriculum and overall program services.
Unionville Fair received funds to support children’s entertainment at the fair. Volunteers in English will use their funds for books and workbooks used during tutoring sessions.
Photo by Carla Lucas
Festival’s impact mushrooms
The 2015 Mushroom Festival took place seven months ago, but the impact of the event is being felt throughout the year.
In this issue of the Chester County Press, you can read about the reception that the Mushroom Festival recently held for the 47 local non-profit organizations that are receiving grants from the festival this year. The approximately $85,000 in funding that was handed out to the Kennett Area Parks and Recreation Board, the Meals on Wheels program, the Kennett Fire Company, the Oxford Arts Alliance, the ALS Society, and the 42 other organizations came from the proceeds of the 2015 event.
These organizations will take the grant money that they receive and use it to the maximum benefit to help children, senior citizens, and numerous groups that serve the community in important ways. The Avondale Fire Company will be purchasing a radio that will be useful for interior firefighting. The grant to the Domestic Violence Center of Chester County will be utilized to support the satellite office in Kennett Square. The Chester County SPCA will purchase pet food so that low-income families can care for their pets.
Children in the community will benefit directly in a number of different ways by organizations that received funding through the Mushroom Festival’s grant program.
Head Start of Kennett Square will use its grant money to purchase book bags and school supplies to give to children who are heading to kindergarten. The Kennett After-School Association will use its funding to offset after-school transportation costs for students in the After-the-Bell program. The Kennett Education Foundation will use its money to fund educational grants for educators and students in the Kennett Consolidated School District. The funding to the Kennett Area YMCA will be used to purchase program materials and supplies, and to pay for field trip admissions and busing for its summer camp. The Lighthouse Youth Center received funds to purchase the incentives that students receive after meeting specific goals throughout the year. The Garage’s grant will allow them to purchase supplies for the Kennett Square and West Grove youth centers. The grant to the Tick Tock Early Learning Center will pay for supplies and special activities to enhance its curriculum.
The community as a whole will benefit from the grants, too. Historic Kennett Square uses the funding that it receives to help stage the enormously popular Memorial Day Parade. Meanwhile, the Kennett Area Parks Authority will use its grant money to produce the Summer Concert Series at Anson B. Nixon Park. The Unionville Fair received funds to support children’s entertainment at the fair. The Kennett Fire Company received grant money to purchase two AEDs (defibrillators) for use on their vehicles. Lives will likely be saved as a result of that purchase.
Examine everything that is accomplished with the grant funding and it quickly becomes apparent that the impact of the Mushroom Festival is significant. With the $85,000 this year, the Mushroom Festival has now distributed a total of $805,000 to non-profits in the area. Those non-profits have, in turn, multiplied the impact of that funding on the community with their programs and services. It’s great to celebrate the fact that Kennett Square is the Mushroom Capital of the World, but the impact of the Mushroom Festival is far greater than that.
Chester County Press
Letter to the Editor
Poor choice of fundraiser for Avondale Fire Company
Letter to the Editor:
I recently saw on Facebook that the Avondale Fire Company is holding a fundraising raffle. The prize of the raffle is guns. Three of them.
When another local resident and I commented that perhaps we weren’t comfortable with that type of fundraiser, we were invited to volunteer for the Avondale Fire Company and then our comments were deleted. The message was loud and clear—“Shut up. You cannot dispute or voice concern over guns in our community, and certainly not unless you volunteer for Avondale Fire Company can you criticize one of our fundraisers.”
First of all, I have visited almost every open house and housing and breakfast fundraiser they’ve hosted, and I have donated cash while there. I held my son’s birthday party in the building when it first opened, and taught First Aid and
CPR classes there when they were in the old building. I have been a supporter of the fire company for the two decades we’ve lived here and will continue to do so. But even without that, I am entitled to an opinion. You don’t need to write back to this newspaper and rebuke me with all your Second Amendment rights. I am well aware of your unlimited rights as gun owners. Most gun owners want all the rights with zero responsibility, and that is what they have. If your child comes to my house and gets hurt on my swing set or trampoline, you can sue me, the manufacturer, and the installer and so on. Not so for guns. You cannot sue. Good luck getting homeowners’ insurance if you have a diving board, but you can have 500 guns, no problem. There is only one manufacturer left of football helmets. Litigation has put all the others out of business. But sue a gun manufacturer or owner?
Good luck. You can’t. All the rights, no responsibility. How do we know that these three guns are going to go into responsible hands? We don’t. Even felons can get them through loopholes, because it’s their “right.” Even if the winners are screened, we have no idea where those guns will end up. There are no repercussions for not reporting stolen guns, and the winners can sell those guns in a parking lot with no background check the same day—completely legal. Every year in this country, 10,000 children are shot and 3,000 of them die. Every time a child is killed or injured by a gun, an adult is responsible, but seldom are they held responsible or liable. Our country has nine guns for every ten people. Do we really need three more guns in our community?
Couldn’t the Avondale Fire Company have provided fun and valuable prizes that promote health and well-
being, rather than the one product on the planet that is made solely to kill? How about a health club or YMCA membership? A weekend getaway, or if they wanted to support hunters and sportsmen, a weekend fishing trip or hunting cabin. They also could have chosen something that would support a local business, not a gun manufacturer who has no ties to our community. Mostly, what makes me sad is that Avondale Fire Company chose something that divides communities, not unite them. The gun debate stirs up so many emotions on both sides, and it does nothing to make this community cohesive. A fire company should bring a sense of safety and security to a community, not fear that they have now inserted three more weapons, in a place that already has too many, and no responsibilities.
Lisa Lightner Avondale
Questions about State Sen. Smucker’s political record
Letter to the Editor:
I do not trust State Sen. Lloyd Smucker. He has sold out the people of his district, and now he wants to sell out the people of the 16th Congressional District as well.
I’ve looked into his record and here are a few of the things he did that give me great concern:
1. Sen. Smucker introduced the Pennsylvania Dream Act, a bill that gives in-state college tuition rates
to illegal aliens. This bill not only promotes illegal immigration, it rewards it.
2. Smucker voted against penalizing sanctuary cities like Philadelphia. These cities give safe harbor to illegal aliens that have committed crimes (other than being here illegally) and it prevents them from being deported after their release. Smucker was the only Republican to vote against this commonsense bill.
3. He voted to expand
Obamacare into Pennsylvania by Medicaid expansion. He said it was to give the people of Pennsylvania more local control, but he didn’t give a thought about what taking that money meant to the astronomical debt our children and future generations will have to repay. There are plenty of other problems I have with Sen. Smucker. His close affiliation with former state senator Dominic Pileggi is one. Smucker even called
voting for Obamacare a “conservative vote.” He is all about political double-speak. Chet Beiler has the practical experience and political principles that I value greatly. I trust him because he has already shown he is willing to work hard and do his homework. He’s a man of integrity. Chet gets my vote on April 26.
Jane E. Brown Franklin Township
The state of the 158th District
Letter to the Editor:
There has been a lot of misinformation going around about the contested primary election to replace retiring State Representative Chris Ross in the 158th District. Endorsed candidate Lenny Rivera withdrew from the race on March 26 due to a dispute over the procedure to collect petition signatures. Lenny was a good candidate but he wanted to avoid the distraction
this issue would cause and asked to be taken off the ballot.
Since the endorsed candidate dropped out so close to the election, the Republican ballot for this seat will be blank. There are two Republicans who will be running in the primary as write-in candidates, Businessman Perry Bentley and Eric Roe. Republican voters will have the opportunity to write-in the candidate of their choice on April 26.
Bentley, whose private sector experience and deeper roots in the district make him a stronger candidate against Rzucidlo in November, has my vote.
I understand that Democrat Susan Rzucidlo is waging a campaign to also be a write-in candidate on the Republican primary ballot. Her campaign has reportedly been contacting Republican voters claiming that she shares Republican values – what Rzucidlo fails to
mention is that she is a life-long liberal Democrat who would be a reliable vote in the state house for Gov. Tom Wolf’s tax-andspend policies. The Democrats will have a chance to try and elect their candidate in November. They shouldn’t try to trick the voters into supporting their candidate in the Republican primary on April 26.
Bruce Murray
Support Beiler on Election Day
Letter to the Editor:
I was never a fan of former state senator Dominic Pileggi when he was in the State Senate. Now, it looks like we might have one of his closest allies representing us in Congress.
I was surprised to learn recently that State Sen. Lloyd Smucker has taken more than $35,000 from
Pileggi over the years. He’s also taken money from drug companies, teachers’ unions, and a bunch of other special interests. That seems to me to be a clear indication that Smucker has no intention of being his own man in Washington.
I was surprised to learn that senators Smucker and Pileggi ran together
for positions in the senate leadership and were soundly defeated. Now, Pileggi is a judge, and Smucker is running for Congress. It doesn’t take a rocket scientist to figure out they’re probably not wanted in Harrisburg. In a recent debate, Smucker’s opponent, Chet Beiler, pointed out that much of his opposition research has come
from Smucker’s own colleagues. I believe it. I will be casting my ballot for Chet Beiler. Chet has convinced me that he is every bit the conservative that he says he is. I also believe Chet will reject the special interest money that Smucker seems so fond of.
Patrick Harrison Oxford
Kasich headlines 2016 Spring Reception
Ohio governor John Kasich, who is seeking the Republican nomination for President, will headline the 2016 Spring Reception of the Republican Committee
of Chester County on Thursday, April 21 at the Valley Forge Casino, 1160 1st Avenue, King of Prussia, Pa. A VIP reception with Gov. Kasich takes place
from 6:30 p.m. to 7 p.m.
An RSVP is required for admittance to the event. A general reception will take place from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Tickets are $250 per per-
son, $100 for committee people, and $150 per person for couples. For more information, call 610-6961842 or email lwagoner@ republicanccc.com.
Oxford Educational Foundation funds 27 grants for innovative ideas for classrooms
While the state of Pennsylvania has been slow in dispersing funds to schools this year, the Oxford Educational Foundation has continued to provide professional grants for the Oxford Area School District. In the first half of this current school year, twentyseven grants have been awarded to personnel in the schools to fund innovative educational ideas. These grants totaled $9,672.83 for use across the six school buildings, grades K- 12. Funding for the grants
come from donations and membership in the foundation. Teachers and staff are given four opportunities each school year to apply for funds not provided by the school budget in order to enhance the education of students in the OASD. The generosity of the Oxford community and those interested in education provide these dollars. The Oxford Educational Foundation encourages all to consider adding their support to these efforts. Information on how to join the OEF
and/or make donations can be found at www. oxfordeducationalfoundation. org.
The grant awardees and their funded projects from the first semester include the following: At the Oxford Area High School, Chris Perdomenico was awarded a grant to help students create a professional newspaper; at the Hopewell School, Leslie Gambrell purchased Social Studies newspapers to enhance the curriculum, Sarah Hannum bought drumsticks and practice
Help keep the Brandywine clean on April 23
The Young Friends of the Brandywine will host their 20th Annual Brandywine River Cleanup on Saturday, April 23, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
pads for the music program, and Kelly Midkiff is piloting the use of stand up desks to better meet the needs of her students; at the Nottingham School, 20 teachers applied for and purchased document cameras to facilitate reading and math lessons, Kim Blando and Linda Hicks purchased a Buddy Bench for use at recess to promote positive socialization and inclusion, and Pam Anderson received funding for an outreach program from the Delaware Museum
of Natural History on animal adaptations; for use in classrooms from kindergarten through twelfth grade, Marisa Mahon purchased kits for career development programs.
This is the 16th year that the professional grants have been awarded bringing the total funding used to over $164,000 in support of local public education. The OEF looks forward to continuing to encourage the further development of innovative programs.
An Earth Day cleanup event is being hosted by Oxford Mainstreet, Inc. (OMI) this Saturday, April 23, from 8 a.m. to noon. The day begins at the OMI office on Third Street. The Nottingham County Park will make a presentation for school-age children at approximately 9 a.m. After the cleanup efforts, participants can bring or buy a lunch to enjoy a picnic on the lawn of the Edward Jones building.
Awards from YMCA of Greater Brandywine
Since the event’s inception, the Young Friends have removed more than 30 tons of trash from the banks of the Brandywine between Lenape and the Delaware state line. Items plucked from its banks include picnic tables, hundreds of tires, lawn chairs, countless cans and even a huge stuffed purple gorilla.
Volunteers are advised to wear hats, long pants, heavy shoes or boots, and sunscreen.
This event helps to ensure cleaner water for communities that rely on the Brandywine as a source for their drinking water, a healthier habitat for wildlife, and a safer environment for recreational activities. More than 500,000 residents in Pennsylvania and Delaware rely on the Brandywine as the source of their drinking water.
Gloves and trash bags will be provided. Lunch will be provided. This event is acceptable for children over the age of 5. To volunteer for the cleanup, contact Kathy Smith at ksmith@ brandywine.org or 610388-8315. Volunteers are asked to come to the Environmental Management Center at the Brandywine River Museum of Art at 9 a.m. to register and be divided into teams, which will clean sections of the river banks.
Courtesy photo
Doug Nakashima, executive director of the Kennett Area
the branch’s 2015 Social Responsibility Award
board chair, Phil Patrone,
Masterful paintings of Chester County scenes Ray
By John Chambless Staff Writer
What Ray Hendershot does, he does exceedingly well.
His paintings of barns and old homes in all seasons are technically perfect – each stone rendered meticulously, each slab of weathered wood depicted in all its faded glory. But when you’ve been painting masterfully for nearly 70 years, as he has, the problem is that everyone else wants to paint like you. So as you walk around Hendershot’s large exhibit at the Chadds Ford Gallery, you can’t help thinking, “I’ve seen this barn before ...”
And you have. There are at least a dozen Chester County artists who have followed in Hendershot’s footsteps, and who paint exactly the same subjects. But there’s certainly no faulting any of these paintings for their skill and perfection. Again and again, Hendershot proves he can paint a house and barn. But it’s when he steps away from
Hendershot featured at Chadds Ford Gallery
the buildings that he has a chance to branch out a bit.
His “Autumn Woods” is a stunning, photo-like depiction of trees on a misty day, with vibrant orange leaves and spindly black branches depicted in jaw-dropping detail.
His “Snow Laden” paintings – depicting drifted snow on tree trunks, under leaden skies – are just as fine, and evoke a vivid chill.
“Spring Blossoms,” a still life of a basket, a worn blue table top and a sprig of flowers, succeeds with its simplicity; as does the still life “Chust Picked,” a grouping of apples and crocks on a shelf. Hendershot, who is in his 80s, has been doing this longer than his imitators have been alive, and it’s very nice to see so many of his original paintings in one place – 35, to be exact. His esteemed place among the region’s art collectors is assured, and you shouldn’t miss this chance to see such a generously stocked exhibition.
Ray Hendershot’s “My World – Chapter Three” solo show continues at the Chadds Ford Gallery (Route 1, Chadds Ford) through May 1. The gallery is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday from noon to 5 p.m. Visit www.awyethgallery.com for more information.
To contact Staff Writer John Chambless, email jchambless@chestercounty. com.
Looking at the land at the Arts Alliance
Four artists featured in ‘Plein Air-ism: A Responsive Echo’
By John Chambless Staff Writer
It’s an ideal season for a landscape show, and the four artists featured at the Oxford Arts Alliance make the most of the theme. The exhibit, “Plein Air-ism:
A Responsive Echo,” opened on April 15 and continues through May 24.
Ellen Corddry’s
“Cherry Run, Ricketts Glen, Pa.” is a very fine watercolor and crayon work that has a semi-abstract quality that comes from the overlapping textures of ferns and leaves on the stream banks, as well as the swirling patterns in the shallow stream.
Corddry’s hand-colored woodcuts are also interesting, with bold
black lines and delicate tinting that gives them a distinctive look.
John Sauers has a nice, chilly winter scene, “Snow, Sleet and Ice,” in which a crow in the foreground regards a tree that’s weighted down with ice. The crow turns up in several other pieces by Sauers, such as the sunny landscape “Field With Hay Bales, Late Summer.”
Mary Swann’s oil landscapes have a sketchy texture and light tone that’s shown nicely in “Ober Farm,” in which the artist’s brush strokes are evident in the view of farm field and a mass of billowing clouds.
But it’s Michael Gaudreau who works the most magic in his luminous pastels and vividly rendered oils.
“Lone Pine, Winter” gets everything right – reflective water, dried scrub trees and a thicket of evergreens in a cold, slanting light.
“Drydock, The Skipjack Martha Lewis” captures the blue foreground shadow on a white boat hull, as well as the expanse of backlit clouds above. His “First Snow on Mt. Giant,” the woodland scene “Raking
Showers” and “Moving Cloud” are virtuoso efforts in pastel. Each one has shadows you can practically feel, and a marvelous sense of depth and space.
“Plein Air-ism: A Responsive Echo” continues through May 24 at the Oxford Arts Alliance (38 S. Third St., Oxford). The gallery will also be part of the Chester County Studio Tour on May 21 and 22. The gallery is open, free of charge, on Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Visit www.oxfordart.org for more information.
To contact Staff Writer John Chambless, email jchambless@ chestercounty.com.
‘Cherry Run, Ricketts Glen, Pa.,’ by Ellen Corddry.
‘Lone Pine, Winter’ by Michael Gaudreau.
‘Ober Farm’ by Mary Swann.
‘Field With Hay Bales, Late Summer’ by John Sauers.
‘Raking Showers’ by Michael Gaudreau.
‘Rural Vista’
‘Autumn Woods’
Art? Trash? It’s both, as the Trashy Women celebrate creative recycling
By John Chambless Staff Writer
It’s always a treat when the Trashy Women get together, as they have for the past 11 years. The group of women artists recycles and reuses what some people would call trash, and they create endlessly inventive art.
The Wilson Vineyard Gallery in Nottingham is hosting a group show through May 7 that will make you laugh, and then
make you want to go home and create something of your own.
Mindy Jarusek turns faucet handles into flowers and buttons into bouquets in her small pieces. Sue Eyet’s mobiles are feats of delicate engineering, using a beguiling mix of objects that suggest multiple interpretations. Her “Love With Wall Book” is an assemblage of items you wouldn’t otherwise see together – keys, watch parts, Scrabble letters, bobbins and more, all balanced perfectly on a wall-mounted bracket. Her mobiles are also hanging in the winery’s tasting room, giving you plenty of time to linger and appreciate her masterful arrangements of tiny things.
Caryn Hetherston has some tribal-inspired necklaces and pendants, and three fascinating sculptures.
“Industrial Angel” is a timeless, strange monument using a little doll figure on a pedestal; and “A Dime For Your Thoughts” is a complex, evocative sculpture under a glass dome that combines a mouse’s jaw
bone, a porcelain doll ear and who knows what else. It’s like a steampunk shrine, and unlike anything you’ll see anywhere else.
Maggie Creshkoff’s rusty angels are always delightful, with somber pottery faces and bodies made of rusted, ragged metal. Only Creshkoff could accidentally run over a helmet liner with her car, look at the shattered results, mount it on a frame and – voila! – it’s an odd, dessicated trophy titled “Fish or Foul?” She can also turn a bit of particle board shelving and a few doodads into a whimsical canine profile.
Donna Steck’s three-
column wall hanging, “Wish You Were Here,” links watercolor scenes that are like abstract postcards. But Steck’s high points are “Recorded History,” a wall hanging made of interwoven cassette tape and microfilm; as well as “Mixed Tape,” a weaving of different shades of brown cassette tape that looks like a textile. Both are prime examples of taking something useless – does anyone have a use for old cassettes? – and making something entirely unexpected.
Jo Pinder’s paintings are, at first glance, abstract stripes and dashes. But when you
look at them as landscapes, their scale opens up and you can see cartoonish mountain ranges or trees, overlapping into the distance.
Aside from being fun and thought-provoking, the show is a celebration of making art, not expanding a landfill. Don’t miss it. The Wilson Vineyard Gallery is at 4374 Forge Road in Nottingham. Visit www.wilsonvineyard.com To contact Staff Writer John Chambless, email jchambless@chestercounty. com.
Student Art Exhibit
slated April 29 to May 1 in Kennett Square
Local art students will get a turn in the spotlight during the fourth annual Student Art Exhibit, to be held from April 29 to May 1 at the American Legion Building (Broad and State streets, Kennett Square).
This year’s participating schools are the Kennett Consolidated School District, Unionville-Chadds
Ford Schools, Avon Grove Schools, Oxford Schools and the Sanford School. Students in kindergarten to 12th grade will exhibit fine art, photography, and sculptures.
There will be a preview party on April 29 from 6 to 8 p.m., which is open to all teachers, students, parents, Borough Council, the mayor, and Kennett Square merchants. Light refreshment will be provided. For more information, contact Linda Thies at 610-444-5595 or Ksjlinda2@gmail.com. The event is sponsored by Kennett Area Merchants and Restaurants, and the Art on the Square Arts and Crafts Festival.
Oxford Feed & Lumber introduces Kids’ Korner
On May 6, in conjunction with Oxford’s familyoriented First Fridays, Oxford Feed & Lumber will introduce Kids’ Korner, where each month a different free, fun project will be offered for kids.
Owners of Oxford Feed & Lumber, the Drennen family, have been hosting Kids’ Korner at their Brandywine Ace, Pet & Farm store in West Chester for more than a year. “It has been enormously popular. There are many families that look forward
to it every month at Brandywine Ace,” said Chris Drennen.
“We thought it would be fun to bring a similar event to the families of Oxford,” added Larry Drennen.
“And it seems a natural fit with First Fridays.”
The May 6 project will have kids personalizing a canvas tote bag by “painting” flowers – using their handprints to form the petals. Families can stop in anytime between 4 and 6 p.m. for Kids Korner. The project
takes about 20 minutes to complete. Call the store at 610932-8521 for more information.
New London Community Choir seeks singers
The New London Community Choir has openings for the 2016 season.
The choir, under the direction of Robin Bidwell, will present “A Tribute to the ‘60s” on July 16 at 7 p.m. in the Avon Grove
High School Auditorium. This will be the sixth summer concert for this rapidly growing choir. The choir performs two concerts a year, and sings at other local events.
Anyone over the age of 14 is welcome to join, and all vocal ranges are being sought. Practice for this event starts on May 17 at 7 p.m. at Guthrie Hall (1010 State Rd., New London). For more information, call 610-869-8129 or e-mail at newlondonumc@verizon. net.
One of Maggie Creshkoff’s rusty angels.
‘Mixed Tape,’ a weaving made of cassette tape, by Donna Steck-McMahon.
A delicately balanced mobile by Sue Eyet.
‘A Dime For Your Thoughts’ by Caryn Hetherston.
Photos by John Chambless Flowers made from old faucet handles, by Mindy Jarusek.
‘Dog Face’ by Maggie Creshkoff.
April 21 to 30
‘Grease’ auditions
The Avon Grove Community Theater (ACT) will hold auditions for this summer’s musical, “Grease,” from April 21 to 30 at Kemblesville United Methodist Church. Appointments can be scheduled at www. actheater.org. Tickets will be available starting in May. The minimum age for cast members is 15. The musical will run from July 21 to 31 at The Ware Center at Lincoln University. For more information, contact Karen Weaver at director@avongrove.org.
April 22 and 23
Spring clean-up in Upper Oxford Upper Oxford Township will hold the spring clean-up days on April 22 from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. and April 23 from 8 a.m. to noon. All large items, appliances and electronics will be
accepted at no charge. Tires will be accepted for a fee. No hazardous materials accepted.
April 22
Oxford Services Center auction
The Oxford Area Neighborhood Services Center will hold its 45th anniversary celebration and auction at the Oxford Fire Hall on April 22 from 6 to 9 p.m. The event, which includes a live and silent auction, dinner, wine, beer and other beverages, features live entertainment by Jamie’s Jazz. Advance tickets are $45 ($50 at the door). There will be tickets to sporting events, decorative items, gift certificates to local businesses and more. All proceeds support the Services Center. To make a reservation or donate auction items, call 610-932-8557 or stop by the NSC at 35 N. 3rd St., Oxford.
April 23
Franklin Township cleanup As part of the Great American Cleanup of Pennsylvania, Franklin Township is organizing a cleanup of Franklin Township on April 23. Residents are encouraged to clean up their own properties, their neighborhoods and sections of township roads. Meet at the township office at 8 a.m. Gloves, trash bags, safety vests and marking flags will be available. The township contractor, Yardworks, will be donating a dump truck to haul the trash to the landfill. Call the township office to volunteer to clean up a section of road, or for more information -- 610255-5212 or email info@ franklintownship.us.
April 27
Car care for seniors
The Oxford Area Senior Center and Fravers’ Auto Repair will host a program
Get that antique item appraised on April 23
Saturday, April 23, will be a day of discovery at the Brandywine River Museum of Art when experts from Freeman’s, America’s oldest auction house, will offer verbal appraisals.
The team of auction specialists, many of whom have been featured on PBS’s “Antiques Roadshow,” will provide expert valuations of fine paintings, jewelry, furniture and decorative arts including porcelain,
jade, silver and rare books.
“If you have an inherited treasure, and know the family history about it, but what to learn more, or an intriguing piece you have purchased, this is your opportunity to learn about the age, style, condition and rarity of your item,” said Donna Gormel, director of volunteers and events at the Brandywine. Attendees will receive a verbal auction estimate.
on basic auto maintenance on April 27 at 7 p.m. The class will show how to change a tire, check and add fluids, check belts and car batteries, replace wiper blades, identify lights on the dashboard, choose the right motor oil and change it. The workshop will be held at Fravers’ shop at 1495 Limestone Road, Cochranville. The class is free but space is limited. Call 610-932-5244 or email oxsrctr@zoominternet.net to reserve a space.
April 30
‘Spring Fling’ at fire company
The Water Witch Fire Company (15 N. Main St., Port Deposit, Md.) has scheduled a “Spring Fling” on April 30 from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Station 7-2, off Jacob Tome Memorial Highway. The event includes the second annual yard sale, a craft fair, direct sales, and food. Vendors and crafters are wanted. Call call 410-977-
Through June 12
American Landscapes
Bring in photos for larger items. No guns, stamps, dolls, or collectibles will be appraised.
The Brandywine River Museum of Art (Route 1, Chadds Ford) will exhibit “The Poetry of Nature: A Golden Age of American Landscape Painting” through June 12. The exhibition, drawn from the NewYork Historical Society, features works by artists of the Hudson River School from the 1800s. The museum is open daily from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Call 610-3882700 or visit www.
3539 to rent a 12-by-20foot space for $20.
April 30
Plant sale
The 51st Annual Kennett Square Beautification Plant Sale will take place on April 30 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the Genesis Walk Way. There will be hanging baskets, herbs, annuals, perennials, grasses, native plants, and starter vegetable plantings. The sale features plants dug from the gardens of area garden club members who donate their plants every year. The proceeds from the sale support the sidewalk planters and hanging plants throughout downtown Kennett Square, as well as other beautification projects throughout the area.
May 8
Kacie’s Cause
Mother’s Day Walk
The Parkesburg Point (700 Main St., Parkesburg) will be the starting point for the Kacie’s Cause
brandywinemuseum.org.
Through April 30
Art at Metamorphosis
Metamorphosis
Wellness Center (331 E. State St., Kennett Square) is featuring artwork by Christine Burke and Shay Aubrey Allen through April 30. Burke studied art under Karl J. Kuerner, who was mentored by Andrew Wyeth. Allen is a mixed-media artist and graduate of the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts. Call 610444-8020 or visit www.
Mothers’ Day Walk on May 8 at 9 a.m. to raise money and awareness to fight drug abuse and overdoses in the county. The family event will be held rain or shine. Lunch will be provided. To register online, visit https://goo.gl/rYuz87.
May 21
Shredding event
The Unionville High School front parking lot will be the site of a free shredding event for the community on May 21 from 9 a.m. to noon. Community residents can bring up to four boxes of documents to be securely shredded. The event will continue until the truck is full.
To submit items to the Calendar of Events, e-mail jchambless@ chestercounty.com. There is no charge. Not every submission can be included. Items should be submitted at least two weeks before the event.
metamorphosiswellnesscenter. net.
Through April 25
‘Welcome Spring’ Longwood Art Gallery (200 E. State St., Kennett Square) will host “Welcome Spring,” featuring original art by local artist Rachel Altschuler, during April. Her work is a reflection of her love of nature. The exhibit continues through April 25. For more information, call the 610-4440146 or visit www. longwoodartgallery.com.
The event will take place from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Timed tickets are available every halfhour, with the last ticket at 3:30 p.m. The cost is $30 per time slot for one item and includes admission to the museum and exhibitions. Tickets may be purchased online at brandywine.org or by calling 610-388-8112. When my high blood pressure turned into something more complex, my Chester County Hospital cardiologist referred me to an expert in my specific condition at Penn, the region’s #1
After being successfully treated downtown, I do all of my follow up back close to home. With access to Penn Medicine here in Chester County, I never have to settle. Now chasing after my grandson is the only thing that makes my heart skip a beat. My life is worth Penn Medicine, isn’t yours?
JAMES H. MOSIER, SR.
James H. Mosier, Sr., 91, of Landenberg, passed away on April 16 at the Thomas Jefferson University Hospital in Philadelphia. He was the husband of Frances Combs Mosier, with whom he shared 68 years of marriage. Born in Laurel Bloomery, Tenn., he was the son of the late Wiley and Mary Riddle Mosier. He was a spot welder with General Motors Corp. in Wilmington, Del., retiring in 1982 after 30 years of service. He enjoyed building bird houses, working in his garage, watching airplanes, and being with his family and friends.
In addition to his wife, he is survived by one son, James H. Mosier, Jr., and his wife Ada of Gap, Pa.; two daughters, Sandy Couch and her husband Bob of West Grove, and Kathryn Waltman of Ronks, Pa.; one brother, Raymond Mosier of Dallas, Texas; one sister, Shirley Hiltz of Dallas, Texas; ten grandchildren, James C., John, Keith and Dyanna Mosier, Robert, Brad, and Samantha Couch, and Mike Dillard, Tina Palmer and Ashley Walton; 11 great-grandchildren; and one great-greatgrandson. He was predeceased by three brothers, Herbert Mosier, Sherman Mosier and Billy Mosier; and one sister, Margaret Tallman.
A visitation with family and friends will be held from
10 a.m. to noon on April 22 at the Foulk & Grieco Funeral Home (200 Rose Hill Rd., West Grove). His funeral service will follow at noon. Burial will be in the New London Presbyterian Cemetery. Online condolences may be made by visiting www.griecocares.com.
MIGUEL C. CABRERA
Miguel C. Cabrera, 89, of Atglen, passed away on April 6 at Neighborhood Hospice in West Chester.
He was the husband of the Julia Narvaez Cabrera, with whom he shared 52 years of marriage. Born in Puerto Rico, he was the son of the late Asuncion and Adelina Cabrera. Miguel was a hardworking man who provided the best for his seven children, whom he was so very proud of.
He is survived by wife; seven children, Carmen J. Ortiz (Juan) of Little Britain, Miguel C. Cabrera, Jr. (Luz) of Lancaster, Adelaida Griffin (Dan) of Maryland, Rosa M. Ramos (Johnny) of Delaware, Zoraida Baer (Roy) of Nottingham, Jose W. Cabrera (Denise) of Oxford, and Carlos M. Cabrera (Loretta) of Peach Bottom; 21 grandchildren; and 20 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by seven brothers and two sisters.
Mass of Christian burial was celebrated April 12. Online condolences may be made at www. elcollinsfuneralhome.com.
MARY ANN FENNER
Mary Ann Fenner, 71, of West Grove, passed away on April 9 at the Jennersville Regional Hospital. She was the wife of Kenneth E. Fenner, Sr., who passed away in 2001 and with whom she shared 35 years of marriage. Born in Philadelphia, she was the daughter of the late William and Beatrice Polito Santoro. She was a homemaker and enjoyed watching old movies, and being with her family and friends.
She is survived by one daughter, Nicole Boyle and her husband Jim of Woodstown, N.J.; two sons, Kenneth E. Fenner, Jr., of Pennsylvania and Gregory Fenner of Glenolden, Pa.; one sister, Felice Kloss of Broomall; and three grandchildren.
A visitation with family and friends will be held from 10 to 11 a.m. on Wednesday, April 20, at the Kuzo & Grieco Funeral Home (250 W. State St., Kennett Square). Her memorial service will follow ant 11 a.m. Burial will follow at 1 p.m. in Saints Peter and Paul Cemetery in Springfield. In memory of Mary Ann, a contribution may be made to the American Lung Association, 527 Plymouth Road, Suite 415, Plymouth Meeting, PA 19462. Online condolences may be made by visiting www.griecocares.com.
April 23
Spaghetti dinner
April 23
Buffet breakfast
The Oxford United Methodist Church (18 Addison St., Oxford) hosts a buffet breakfast
Oxford United Methodist Church (18 Addison St., Oxford) will hold a community spaghetti dinner on April 23 from 4 to 7 p.m. Tickets are $9 for adults and $4.50 for ages 12 and younger. The meal includes spaghetti with homemade sauce, meatballs, sausage, salad, bread, dessert, coffee and iced tea. Tickets will be available at the door. Takeouts will be available.
on April 23 from 7 to 10 a.m. The menu includes pancakes, French toast, scrambled eggs, fruit, sausage and bacon, roasted potatoes, and specialty breads. Tickets at the door are $6 for adults and $3 for ages 3 to 10. Everyone is welcome. Call 610932-9698 for more information.
April 24
Handbell concert Avondale Presbyterian Church (420 Pennsylvania Ave., Avondale) presents the eighth annual Community Handbell Benefit Concert on April 24 at 3:30 p.m.
Several handbell choirs from local churches and the community will be
performing. A freewill offering will be received. Parking is free and the concert is open to the public. Doors open at 3 p.m., and seating is limited. Call 610-2682919 or visit www. avondalepc.org.
April 27
Joseph’s People
The next monthly Joseph’s People meeting for the unemployed/ underemployed will be on April 27 at 6:45 p.m. in the Parish Life Center (lower level) of ABVM’s Church (300 State Rd., West Grove). The presenter will be Bob Moran, change management manager of Wawa, Inc. He will discuss the role of change management in the job search process. Joseph’s People provides prayerful support, introduction of community resources, encouraging member interaction, and discussions of job opportunities.
April 29-30
Rummage sale
The West Grove
westgroveumc.org.
May 7 Chicken barbecue Landenberg United Methodist Church (205 Landenberg Rd., Landenberg) will hold a chicken barbeque on May 7 from 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. Dinners will include half a chicken, baked potato, string beans, roll and dessert for $10 or half chicken only for $6. Eat in, take out or drive through. Tickets will be sold at the door, or preorder by calling Lydia at 610-274-8335.
May 7
Super Saturday Oxford
TheChesterCountyPressfeaturesadedicatedchurch/religiouspagethat canhelpyouadvertiseyourhouseofworshipand/orbusiness.Thepage isupdatedweeklywithnewscripture.Only$10Weeklyforthisspace. Weareofferingaspecialdiscountof25%offeachandeveryhelpwanted/ classifiedadvertisementtoanybusinessthatadvertisesonthePRESS churchpage. For more information or to place an ad, contact Brenda Butt at 610-869-5553 ext. 15
United Methodist Church (18 Addison St., Oxford) will hold its Super Saturday event on May 7. There will be a plant sale and chicken barbecue, and the parking lot will be full of yard sale vendors. For local residents, space in the parking lot is free for the yard sale, or $10 if you need to rent a table. The plant sale and yard sale will go from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Chicken will be ready around 11 a.m., and available until sold out. Tickets for the barbecue can be purchased in advance by calling 610-9329698, and the cost is $10. To reserve space for the yard sale, call the church office.
United Methodist Church’s Annual Spring Rummage Sale will be held April 29 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., and April 30 from 9 a.m. to noon. This sale is open to the entire community. On Saturday, visitors may fill a brown paper grocery sack for $2. The United Methodist Women, who sponsor this sale, use the proceeds to fund various needs in the church and the wider community. Donations of items are accepted at the church from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. from April 25 to 28. The sale is held inside. The church is at 300 N. Guernsey Rd., West Grove. Call 610869-9334 or visit www.
To submit items to the Church Calendar, e-mail jchambless@ chestercounty.com. There is no charge. Information should be received at least two weeks before the event. Not every submission can be included. Please include the address and contact information for the church in your submission.
Weber, Hall, and Williams spark Oxford’s offense in 12-2 win Brendan Ward improves to 3-0 on the mound for the Hornets
By Steven Hoffman Staff Writer
Mike Williams lined a single to right field to score two runs and put an exclamation point on Oxford’s 12-2 win over Sun Valley on April 13.
Mike Weber contributed three hits, including a double, and drove in four runs and Hunter Hall went 4-for-4 and scored two runs—plenty of offensive support for the Hornets’ starting pitcher, Brendan Ward.
Ward scattered four hits and walked just one batter during six innings of work. He struck out five batters en route to his third victory on the young season. The Hornet hurler credited his teammates with playing good defense behind him, and the offense’s prodigious output helped the cause, too.
Ward provided a spark to Oxford’s offense with a double to left-center to lead off the bottom of the third inning. Hall promptly drove him in with an RBIdouble to left. Weber then hit a sharp single to score Hall. Oxford led 4-1.
The Hornets put the leadoff hitter on again in the fourth inning when Williams walked. Hall singled, moving Williams to third. Hall then stole
second base to move into scoring position. With two strikes, Weber shortened his swing and poked the ball just inside the third base bag for a two-run double.
Just one inning later, Weber came up with the bases loaded and delivered another hit, scoring two more runs. It was 10-2 in Oxford’s favor heading to the sixth inning.
Ward retired Sun Valley in order in the top of the sixth.
Oxford continued its momentum in the bottom half of the inning. Lucas Capelli led off the bottom of the sixth with a single. Zach Todd singled and then Eddie Settine walked to load the bases. Williams then delivered the hit that would end the game as the Hornets took a ten-run lead at 12-2.
The victory improved Oxford’s record to 4-3, and Oxford head coach Andy Wendle said that he was pleased with the approach that his hitters took at the plate.
“We’ve done a pretty good job so far,” Wendle said. “We’ve been putting up five, six, seven runs a game.”
Weber, who drove in four runs against Sun Valley has developed a knack for delivering clutch hits. He’s
still only a junior, and is only getting better.
Wendle said that Hall has been one of Oxford’s more reliable hitters. Hall had a solid season last year as a freshman, and he has continued to deliver big hits for the Hornets this year. The addition of Ward has been good for Oxford, too. He transferred in from Salesianum at the start of this school year and very quickly became a part of the team.
“He’s really done a great
job for us,” Wendle said. “He pitches, he hits, and he plays well in the field.”
Ward said that Oxford could make a push for the playoffs, especially if the team plays good defense. With talent up and down the lineup, the Hornets can score runs, and Ward said that he thinks pitching might be the strength of the team.
Wendle agreed, saying that Oxford’s pitchers have the opportunity to work hard and expand the team’s potential for success. In addition to Ward, Oxford is counting on Andrew Stefanosky, Jackson West, and Nolan Benke. Benke is currently rehabbing from a strained hamstring, but has been a key contributor since his freshman year.
“They have all pitched very well for us this year,” Wendle said. “By in large, our pitching staff has done a good job controlling both sides of the plate and working ahead in counts. They have done a great job controlling the pace of the game, and making big pitches when the situation called for it.”
Stefanosky, West, and Benke are all juniors. “We have a nice, young, pitching
staff that has a lot of future potential,” Wendle said.
The Oxford coach added that he just wants the team to focus on improving in all phases of the game.
“Our goal is to just get better—throughout the course of the game and throughout the course of the season,” Wendle said. “When we’re firing on all cylinders, we can play a pretty good game of baseball.”
To contact Staff Writer Steven Hoffman, email editor@chestercounty. com.
Photo by Steven Hoffman
Senior Brendan Ward got the start on the mound for Oxford. He and the other Oxford hurlers have done a good
job of giving the Hornets a chance to win each game.
Photo by Steven Hoffman
The Oxford baseball team waits for their coach after the impressive win over Sun Valley.
Photo by Steven Hoffman Mike Weber drove in four runs for Oxford.
Photo by Steven Hoffman
Eddie Settine steals second base for the Hornets.
Three Avon Grove hurlers toss 4-0 shutout
By Richard L. Gaw Staff Writer
Three weeks into the 2016 Ches-Mont season, there was probably not a player or a coach associated with this year’s Avon Grove baseball team who did not believe – if only for a moment – that the club’s 0-7 start was a bellwether sign of what was to come.
They were the hard-luck kids, because five of those early losses came after the Red Devils were leading by one run going into the latter innings, but a fourrun seventh inning that pulled out a win against Coatesville last week gave a glimmer of hope that the season could be salvaged.
On Monday afternoon, however, that glimmer of hope shone even brighter.
Behind the gutsy pitching of Alex Ei, Alex Gaydos and Ryan Gerenser – as well as timely hitting and slick fielding – Avon Grove defeated Downingtown East 4-0, for its second win of the season.
The Red Devils jumped on Downingtown starter Chris Donovan early, when lead-off hitter Andrew Brady led the game off with a walk, stole second, went to third on a sacrifice fly, and scored on a slap single by Ryan Guckin. With two on and two out and runners on second and third, Donovan induced Tom Jacobs to line out to short to end the first-inning threat.
Although he only logged the first three innings, Ei,
a sophomore, showed the seasoned acumen of a senior, especially in the top of the second inning, when the Cougars mounted one of their only run-scoring threats of the game. Will Peiffer led off with a liner to right field, advanced to second on an interference call given to Avon Grove first baseman Luke Ferkler, and took third on an opposite side ground out.
Ei then struck out Matt Szepanski on a change-up, and escaped trouble when right fielder Bryce Carey made a diving catch on a sinking liner by Austin Taylor.
Ei also got another helping hand from his defense in the top of the third, when a 4-6-3 double play started by Brent Griffin and Jim Farrow snuffed out a lead-off single by Albert Choi.
“Alex is a sophomore, and we know his strengths and he’s just learning them,” said Avon Grove head coach Dave Whitcraft.
“He threw a 3-2 changeup to one of their middle hitters, and it was just a thing of beauty. To have confidence in a sophomore to throw a change in that situation when you might be struggling with your fastball, is huge.”
Avon Grove notched another run in the fourth that began with a leadoff walk to Jacobs, who then went to second on a sacrifice bunt by Carey, and scored on a double to right center by designated hitter Matt Greenjack, one
of three hits Greenjack had on the day.
While middle reliever Gaydos was tossing two innings of shut-out ball, Avon Grove pushed across its third run of the game in the fifth, when Guckin led off with a single to right. Ryan Arrell, pinch running for Guckin, then scampered to third on a failed attempt at a pick-off by Donovan, and scored on a chopper by Zach Long that went over the head of D-Town third baseman Chase Fike.
In the sixth, Greenjack led off with a single, went to second on a single by Brady, and came around on a ground rule double by Farrow, to close out Avon Grove scoring.
Closer Gerenser surrendered a two-out single to Kelsey Launi in the sixth, and saw Launi take third on an overthrow by Farrow on a grounder by Michael Rodriguez.
Undaunted, Gerenser promptly struck out Fike to end the threat.
Whitcraft said the win showed signs of his young team’s resiliency.
“I have to say, being 0-7 to start the season and losing five of those seven games by a run leading in the fifth and sixth inning can be devastating,” he said. “It’s a credit to the players and coaching staff to keep our heads together and get better in bits and pieces.”
The Red Devils (2-7) will try to continue their winning ways when they travel to Octorara on April 22. On the same day, Downingtown East (5-5) travels to Kennett to play the Blue Demons.
To contact Staff Writer Richard L. Gaw, email rgaw@chestercounty.com.
Photo by Richard L. Gaw Starter Alex Ei was one of three Avon Grove pitchers who tossed a shutout in a 4-0 win over Downingtown East on April 18.
Photo by Richard L. Gaw
Andrew Brady steals second base early in the game.
Photo by Richard L. Gaw Ryan Guckin slapped an opposite field single to drive in Avon Grove’s first run of the game.
caption, term, and number. The Condemnor is Sunoco Pipeline L.P. (“Sunoco Pipeline”), acting through its Board of Directors. The Condemnor’s office address is: Sunoco Pipeline L.P., 525 Fritztown Road, Sinking Spring,
take, occupy and condemn property for one or more of the following principal purposes and ancillary purposes reasonably necessary or appropriate for the accomplishment of the principal purposes: (2) The transportation of artificial or natural gas, electricity, petroleum or petroleum products or water or any combination of such substances for the public., 15 Pa.C.S. § 1511(a)(2) (emphasis added). The Declaration of Taking is made and authorized by virtue of the Resolution duly adopted by the Board of Directors of the Condemnor on February 9, 2016. The record of the meeting, being the minutes thereof, and the original Resolution may be examined at the Condemnor’s offices, at the address stated above. A copy of the Resolution is attached as Exhibit T to the Declaration of Taking (Exhibit A hereto) and incorporated herein by reference. A portion of your property located at 1423 South Ship Road, West Whiteland Township, Pennsylvania 19380, has been condemned by Sunoco Pipeline to acquire a permanent right of way. A description identifying and specifying the location of the property hereby condemned is attached as Exhibit S to the Declaration of Taking (Exhibit A hereto).
The purpose of the condemnation is to construct, install, maintain, operate, repair, inspect, alter, protect, change the size of, relocate, replace in whole or in part, remove, and abandon pipelines and other appurtenant facilities including, but not limited to, above-ground markers, test stations and cathodic protection equipment for the purpose of
transporting petroleum and petroleum products including but not limited to ethane, propane, and liquid petroleum gas in, over, through, across, under, and along the above-described property for the public. Plans showing the property hereby condemned may be inspected in the Office of the Recorder of Deeds of Chester County. On the same day as this Declaration of Taking was filed with the Prothonotary, plans showing the property condemned were lodged of record in the Office of the Recorder of Deeds in and for Chester County in accordance with Section 304 of the Eminent Domain Code. The nature of the title acquired hereby is a permanent easement.
The payment of just compensation in this matter is secured by a Bond that was filed with the Prothonotary on the date the Declaration of Taking was filed of record.
If you wish to challenge the power or right of Sunoco Pipeline to appropriate the condemned property, the sufficiency of the security, the procedure followed by the Condemnor or the Declaration of Taking, you are required to file preliminary objections within thirty (30) days after being served with this notice.
DUANE MORRIS llp
By:George J. Kroculick (40112)
E-mail: gjkroculick@duanemorris.com
Michael J. McCalley (93956) E-mail mjmccalley@duanemorris.com
30 South 17th Street
Philadelphia, PA 19103-4196
Telephone: 215- 979-1000
Fax: (215) 979-1020
Counsel for Condemnor Sunoco
Pipeline L.P.
4p-20-1t
ESTATE NOTICE
ESTATE OF : Ruth A. Wilson, late of Upper Oxford Township, Chester County, PA, Deceased. Letters of Administration on the above Estate having been granted to the undersigned, who request 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: Edmund Wilson Jr. Executor, 116bTweed Rd. Oxford, PA 19363
4p-20-3t
NOTICE OF DISSOLUTION
Pursuant to the requirements of Section 5975 of the Pennsylvania Nonprofit Corporation Law of 1988, notice is hereby given that ERM Low Carbon Enterprise Fund Foundation is currently in the process of dissolving. Laura Solomon & Assocs., 121 Sibley Avenue, Ardmore, PA 19003 4p-20-1t
ESTATE NOTICE
ESTATE OF : David James Soldo late of Elk Township, Chester County, PA, Deceased. Letters of Administration on the above Estate having been granted to the undersigned, who request 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 James Soldo, Jr. Administrator, 412 Taylor Street, Bear, DE 19701
Or his Attorney: Kenneth R. Pyle, Esq. Law offices of Kenneth R. Pyle, 64 S. 3rd St. Suite 1, Oxford, Pa 19363-1603 4p-20-3t
ESTATE NOTICE
Estate of Dorothy Stahl Underhill a/k/a Dorothy S Underhill and Dorothy Underhill,Deceased, late of Oxford Borough, Chester County, PA.Notice is hereby given that Letters Testamentary have been granted to the undersigned, who request all persons having claims or demands against the estate of the deceadent to make known the same and all persons indebted to the deceadent to make payment without delay to Janice Underhill Lasak, Executrix, c/o John H. Pottsl, Esquire, Strafford Office Building. #2, 200 Eagle Rd. Suite 106, Wayne, PA 19807-3115 4p-13-3t
ESTATE NOTICE Notice is hereby given that Letters Testamentary have been granted to James S. Curran and Toni Lee Cavanagh, Esquire as Co-Executors of the Estate of Angela M. Shanaughy, deceased, whose last address was Willistown Township, Chester County, PA . All persons having claims or demands against the said Estate to make known the same, and all
Kennett High School student qualifies for All-State Band
Yvonna Liszewski, a junior at Kennett High School, has qualified for the Pennsylvania Music Educators Association All-State Festival as part of the All-State Concert Band. The band is comprised
of about 100 of the best musicians from across the commonwealth. Yvonna was one of only four flautists who qualified from PMEA Region VI that includes high school musicians from Chester, Bucks, Montgomery, and Philadelphia counties.
Liszewski said, “The way auditions are handled, it’s really just a snapshot of your playing ability. So, while I might have been better on that particular day, there are so many talented musi-
cians in our region.”
However, Anton Romano, Kennett High School’s band director, said, “It’s pretty amazing to make it once, and Yvonna has made it two consecutive years. She really is just that good.”
Wheezer’s Animal Rescue Foundation plans a halfway house for animals
Wheezer’s Animal Rescue, a new Nottingham-based non-profit organization, is looking to help abandoned, neglected, or lost animals with the goal being to rescue, rehabilitate, and then find them a new home.
Wheezer’s Animal Rescue, a new Nottingham-based non-profit organization, is looking to help abandoned, neglected, or lost animals with the goal being to rescue, rehabilitate, and then find them a new home.
While the Wheezer’s halfway home for animals is still in the planning stages, the idea has already attracted some high-profile interest and support. Wheezer’s will be different from the traditional animal shelter in that it will be an environmentally friendly rescue that more closely resembles a home living
situation for the animals.
The organization would also like to offer educational and informational programs for the public.
Wheezer’s Animal Rescue Foundation was started by Kim Moore, the president and founder. She has been a animal advocate for years, and has shared great patience for these rescued animals
that have either been abused, neglected or homeless. She also assisted a multitude of owners with unforeseen veterinary expenses.
Debbie Sampson is the vice president of Wheezer’s Animal Rescue. She said that she was inspired by Moore’s work as an animal advocate.
“I have seen Kim in action
helping these animals,” Sampson said. “I have respect and admiration for all that this wonderful organization stands for.”
The organization is currently working to acquire a home for Wheezer’s Animal Rescue, and numerous fundraisers are planned throughout the year.
The organization is accepting charitable donations to help launch its programs to help animals in the area. Contributions can be made at www.wheezersrescue. org or Wheezer’s Animal Rescue Foundation, P.O. Box 23 Nottingham, PA 19362. For more information, call 610-425-0990 or email wheezersfoundation@gmail.com.
Rogevich and Green named Seniors of the Month at OAHS
Oxford Area High School
students Daniel Green and Rachel Rogevich were honored as Oxford Rotary Club Seniors of the Month for February.
Daniel, son of Gail Weber-Green and David Green, is a two-year member of National Honor Society, a two-year member of the Helping Hands Community Service Club and a three-year member of the high school’s chapter of Future Business Leaders of America, where he helped to organize the recent FBLA Dodge Ball Tournament to benefit the Eli Seth Matthews Leukemia Foundation.
In his junior and senior years, Daniel played quar-
terback on the varsity football team and holds the school records for career passing yards and touchdowns. He served as team captain and was named second team All Ches-Mont League both years.
Daniel is also a pitcher, shortstop and captain on the varsity baseball team.
Daniel, who is employed at the Jennersville YMCA, will attend Penn State University this fall to study accounting.
Rachel, daughter of Beverly and Raymond Rogevich, is a member of National Honor Society, chairing the fundraising committee for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, and a four-year member of
Helping Hands, volunteering at the Lighthouse Youth Center and First Friday in Oxford. As a member of Future Business Leaders of America, she attended the 2015 Pennsylvania FBLA State Leadership Conference, where she competed in the Business Ethics category on a team with current senior Heather Burnett and current junior Carrie McMahon.
Rachel has played soccer since age three and was a four-year member of the varsity team, serving as cocaptain in her junior and senior years and named second team All-Ches-Mont League as a junior. She told the Rotary members that she is particularly proud
of the progress the varsity made during her four years, from not earning a victory in her freshman year to winning one game in her sophomore year, an 8-8 record in her junior year and a winning season in her senior year.
Rachel coaches at the Southern Chester County Soccer Association elite summer camp. A certified referee, she officiates at the camp and at regional tournaments.
“I have benefitted so much from playing soccer and I want to give back what I’ve learned to younger players,” she told the club members.
Rachel recently signed a national letter of intent to play soccer at the University of Pittsburgh-Johnstown, where she will major in business management.
Yvonna Liszewski
Courtesy photo
Oxford Area High School students Daniel Green and Rachel Rogevich were honored as Oxford Rotary Club Seniors of the Month for February. Pictured from left are Oxford Rotary Club President Marilyn Knaub, M.D., Raymond, Beverly and Rachel Rogevich, Daniel Green and Gail Weber-Green and Principal Christopher Dormer.
Knockout Boxing and Fitness opens in Nottingham
By Steven Hoffman Staff Writer
Brandon Sheffield, Jonathan Gainey, and Ted Mercer, the partners in Knockout Boxing and Fitness, have been developing a successful program for their fitness organization since 2010. That program includes everything from MMA training, boxing, and grappling to cardio-kickboxing, sports conditioning, and personal training.
Earlier this month, Knockout Boxing and Fitness opened its second location in Nottingham, and Gainey was enthusiastic about the opportunity to provide Pennsylvania and
Maryland residents with the same fitness experience— including top-notch striking instruction, cardio classes, and personal training—that has been the hallmark of the Newark facility.
“We want to bring some of what we offer in Newark to this facility,” said Gainey, adding that the programs offered at the Nottingham facility will designed specifically for the area. Getting healthy and staying in shape can certainly be a challenge, so there are programs and classes to fit every personality—and every schedule.
Gainey, an experienced mixed martial artist, specializes in providing weight loss programs and personal training classes designed to improve sports performance. He can also provide training for mixed martial arts, boxing, and kickboxing.
Sheffield, a retired professional boxer who holds a black belt in kickboxing and Tang Soo Do, has been training people in the Oxford area at the Team Defiant gym for the last seven years, and many of those people have moved to the new facility.
“We already have a wide variety of people who come here to train,” Gainey said.
Women’s cardio-kickboxing classes are already enormously popular. Sheffield also trains youth, high school, and adult wrestlers. Wrestling is a very popular sport in Pennsylvania, and grapplers from about ten different high schools in the area train with Team Defiant. The Nottingham facility is also home to Revolution Brazilian Jiu Jitsu.
Gainey, who trained as a mixed martial arts fighter under Sheffield, said that his colleague is a very good trainer who can develop a program specifically
to a person’s physical needs.
“He’s definitely one of the best coaches I know,” Gainey explained. “He’s really qualified to do this.”
Mixed martial arts is extremely popular right now, and while the trainers at Knockout Boxing have the experience necessary to train people for amateur or even professional mixed martial arts or boxing contests, they can also train those people who just want to incorporate boxing or mixed martial arts conditioning into their routine. There are
Derby Day Run for the Roses 5K Race set at New Bolton Center
The second annual Derby Day Run for the Roses 5K Race is scheduled for Saturday, May 7, at Penn Vet’s New Bolton Center campus. This year’s event celebrates the 10th anniversary of Barbaro’s 2006 Kentucky Derby win. All proceeds will benefit the Barbaro Fund for Excellence, which supports equine and other large animal patients at New Bolton Center.
On-site registration for this family friendly run/walk begins at 9 a.m. in Alumni Hall at New Bolton Center (382 W. Street Rd., Kennett Square). The race will start at 10 a.m., rain or shine. Registration is $29 for adults until May 1, $35 on race day, and $10 for kids. T-shirts are guaranteed to the first 100 registrants. For online registration and additional information, visit www.runccrs.
com.
“Supporting our local community is very important to New Bolton Center,” said Dr. Barbara Dallap Schaer, medical director of New Bolton Center. “We look forward to welcoming our friends and neighbors to our campus on Derby Day.”
The course is mostly flat, with a few gentle hills, mainly on the road with a few places of even turf terrain. The course starts
from the campus, goes down Byrd and Bartram Roads, and back. Awards will be given to the top three male and female runners overall, top three male and female runners in traditional age groups, and top three walkers overall. Light refreshments will be available. The Chester County Running Store will provide the timing and results. For more information, visit www.vet.upenn.edu.
“We can train those people who work 9 to 5 and then come here to work out in a friendly environment,” Gainey explained.
Having experienced and highly knowledgeable trainers to oversee workouts is a major advantage for fitness enthusiasts because it ensures that they are working out safely, and they are also maximizing the benefits from their workouts.
As Gainey explained, “When the technique gets better, you see better conditioning and you get better results.”
Gainey said that they expect to draw people from Chester County and neighboring
Cecil County to the new 2,800-square-foot facility in Nottingham. They will add or modify classes to ensure that they are meeting the needs of everyone who is using the facility.
Gainey said that they are looking for ways to become a part of the community. They have started making preliminary plans for a 5K run, likely at the Nottingham Park, that will benefit a non-profit organization—perhaps one that supports military veterans. Knockout Boxing and Fitness is located at 476 West Christine Road in Nottingham. More information about the facility and the classes that are available can be found at www. knockoutboxingde.com.
Trout rodeo set for May 7
The 21st annual Anson B. Nixon Park Trout Rodeo will be held on Saturday, May 7 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the Anson B. Nixon Park rain or shine. Tickets can be purchased in advance at Buck’s Hunting, 809 Gap-Newport Pike, Avondale (484-
720-8317) or the Kennett Square Borough. Tickets for adults are $10, and tickets for children are $5. A Pennsylvania fishing license is required for those 16 years of age or older. For more information, call 610444-0792 or visit www. ansonbnixonpark.org. people at all fitness levels at Knockout Boxing and Fitness.
Courtesy photo
Knockout Boxing and Fitness has opened its second facility in Nottingham, featuring everything from MMA training, boxing, and grappling to cardio-kickboxing, sports conditioning, and personal training.
Courtesy photo Training regimens can be designed to meet any person’s individual needs.
Courtesy photo
Women’s cardio-kickboxing classes are already enormously popular, and the lead trainers at Knockout Boxing and Fitness are looking to bring new fitness options to the area.
