Board to township: No contracted police, for now
By Richard L. Gaw Staff Writer
The London Grove Board of
cept of contracting with the newly formed Southern Chester County Regional Police Department, for the immediate future.
As a result, township residents will continue to receive police coverage exclusively from the State
Oxford
School
Board
approves a $68.5 million proposed final budget
By Steven Hoffman Staff Writer
At its meeting on April 18, the Oxford School Board unanimously approved a proposed final budget of $68,541,635 for 2017-2018. Overall, the budget includes an increase of $2,878,654 in spending over the current fiscal year. That’s a 4.38 percent increase in spending. The single largest item impacting Oxford’s budget is the state-mandated contribution to the Public School Employees Retirement System (PSERS), which is increasing by more than $1.1 million, an increase of approximately 8 percent.
Since the school district adopted a preliminary budget earlier this year, district officials have decided that it’s necessary to add one district staff position and two elementary school positions.
School board member Joseph Tighe, who serves on the district’s Finance Committee, said that a onepercent tax increase would likely be necessary to balance the budget, although work continues on the spending plan.
A millage rate hike of one-percent would increase the millage rate from 30.84 mills to 31.1484 mills. If the school board does
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Police in nearby Avondale.
Pointing to the results of a recent study, supervisor Mike Pickel told the audience, “London Grove Township does not need additional police coverage, nor will we be moving forward with joining the regional police force. We’re not entertaining any talks about contracting with them for 40 hours [of coverage] per week.”
However, Pickel told the audience that the study recommended that beginning in 2018, the township should convene meetings with its board chairman and township manager, along with a Pa. State Police commanding officer, as a means of addressing the policing needs of the community.
Continued on Page 2A
Learning the Sweet Science
U-CF School Board approves delayed school start time for 2018-2019 year
By John Chambless Staff Writer
It took three years of study, but the Unionville-Chadds Ford School District is now the first in Pennsylvania to adopt a later school start time, based on extensive research that shows adolescents learn better when they are not required to begin classes before 8 a.m.
At the school board’s April 24 meeting at Hillendale Elementary School, board member Carolyn Daniels made a motion to approve a plan to start and end high school and middle schools 25 minutes later, and to start and end the elementary schools 15 minutes later. Under the new schedule, middle school and
high school will start at 8 a.m. and last until 2:43 p.m. (the current schedule is 7:35 a.m. to 2:18 p.m.).
Elementary schools will start at 9:10 a.m. and last until 3:40 p.m. (the current schedule is 8:55 a.m. to 3:25 p.m.).
Board member Jeff Hellrung traced the history of the proposal. “Since 2014 there has been an increasing chorus of pleas from our doctors and sleep experts that our teens start their school days no later than 8:30 a.m.,” Hellrung said. “They all have identified early school start times as a major contributor to a public health crisis caused by widespread adolescent sleep deprivation. Hundreds of schools
in most states across our country have already heeded this expert advice and delayed school start times to promote student health.
A group of Unionville High School students studied this proposal and came to our board president three years ago, recommending later start times for their school.
“The proposal that we’ll vote on tonight is a result of excellent community work,” Hellrung continued. “It’s not ideal. It delays our high school and middle school start times by 25 minutes. Our committee thought that an 8:30 start would be so disruptive to so many constituencies that our community
Continued on Page 3A
By John Chambless Staff Writer
Taking another big step in preserving the legacy of the Wyeth family in Chadds Ford, the Brandywine Conservancy & Museum of Art will celebrate its 50th anniversary this weekend with the opening of new walking trails on April 30.
A 1.5-mile loop winds through Potts Meadow, which the organization was created to preserve in 1967, over two bridges that span a small creek. An intersecting trail takes hikers to the Andrew Wyeth Studio and the N.C. Wyeth House and Studio, allowing visitors to
By Uncle Irvin
(The writer looked closer at this most common vector-borne illness in the U.S. after a member of his family was recently stricken.)
Lyme disease has both early and late manifestations, and this dichotomy has precipitated a massive split in the health care community in the United States, causing the vector to break out from New England and the Middle Atlantic states westward and southward on a rapid migration.
Photo by Richard L. Gaw
Nine-year-old Makayla Bishop is a student at the Straight 2-3 Boxing Club in Oxford. For a complete story, see Page 1B.
Photo by John Chambless
Two new foot bridges span a small creek that
Chadds Ford.
Photo by Richard L. Gaw
An audience gathered at a London Grove Township town hall meeting on April 20 to discuss on-street parking and policing issues with township supervisors.
Contracted police...
Continued from Page 1A
“This study will be an on-going process and guide the Board of Supervisors in their decisions based on police, but as of tonight, we are not moving forward with any other service than our State Police,” he said.
The town hall gathering was not the first time the board publicly addressed the concept of linking the township with a region-
al police unit, which has been serving New Garden Township and the West Grove Borough since the start of 2017. In 2014, when the idea was initially floated in the southern region of the county, London Grove was one of several municipalities who sat at the discussion table. Over the next year, residents responded with both cheers and boos. It would boost safety in the township, some said, while others believed that that the price tag – estimated
at the time to be about $830,000 for the first year – would be too much for doing a job that was already being done well by the State Police.
At a town hall meeting in May 2015, an overwhelming majority of the 100 residents who attended voiced their opposition, and the township subsequently dropped its name from participation.
Last year, as tensions began to grow in the township about the need for additional policing – in
Wilbur T. Andrews
particular, finding a way to better patrol on-street parking issues – the township explored the idea of contracting with the regional police for about 40 hours a week.
In an effort to address the growing controversy of on-street parking in the township, board chairman Richard Scott-Harper said that the roots of the problem are two-fold: the width of many of the township’s roads are very narrow and do not meet current safety and fire codes; and the township has to do a better job of getting all of its current codes to enforce the same rules.
“When [the township] started to grow, the street width standard [in the township] was originally 17 feet, and there were a lot of reasons for that,” Scott-Harper told the audience. “One of them was to try to keep the country feel of nature that we have.”
is that it limits the space available for emergency service vehicles to maneuver around parked cars.
Just a small tribute to honor my brother: 1948 - 2017 I LOVE YOU, HELEN WARREN
I will miss–your great smile, your big brother love, and our heart connection. Until we meet again.
By the late 1990s, he said, the township saw a massive residential growth that created several new developments and thus, widened the roads in these communities to 20 feet. By late 2016, after meeting with local fire marshals, the board set a new minimum street width in the township at 26 feet. That’s a good move to make more room, Scott-Harper said, but it doesn’t address the on-street parking problems in existing communities, where several residents are complaining that the ability to park additional vehicles on the street is a necessity.
Scott-Harper told the audience that the major problem with on-street parking in the township
These streets are also in violation of a township fire code, which requires that the minimum width of a street has to be 20 feet, and 26 feet for a street that has a fire hydrant.
“If a tragedy happens, the township is most likely going to be held libel,” he said. “If the township gets sued and loses, that money comes out of all of our pockets. Depending on the size of it, if insurance does not cover it, then it would be up to us to make up the difference.”
After considering several options, including an idea to hire a parking enforcement officer, the board
decided that the best way to handle the on-street parking problem was to bolster the township’s codes department, and revamp current ordinances to make them consistent across the board.
“Our new township manager [Ken Battin], who is extremely knowledgeable with codes, has given us some guidance and we will, over the next few months, begin to build a true codes department who will be charged with enforcement and beginning commercial inspections, and fire inspections,” Scott-Harper said. “We have some issues that we have to address. These ordinances should all parallel each other and say the same thing.”
Following the presentations by Scott-Harper and Pickel, several audience members expressed their opinion on both issues.
To contact Staff Writer Richard L. Gaw, e-mail rgaw@chestercounty.com.
Photo by Richard L. Gaw
Board chairman Richard Scott-Harper moderated the meeting.
School start...
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would never accept it. I’m hopeful that other school districts will follow U-CF. We fully engaged our community. Our community was split on the proposal. Survey results showed a majority of parents in favor, but a majority of staff and students opposed. We received many reasonable comments on both sides of the issue.
“Change can be disruptive. The benefits of the proposal come at a cost for some,” Hellrung said. “But for those who have studied this issue the most, the benefits to our students are well worth the cost.”
Board member Tom Day added, “I have reflected on comments made against this proposal by students, parents and staff. I am confident that their voices have been heard. I know that this board took that input very seriously. I am mindful of the impact this decision may have on school activities, on work schedules of parents and teachers, and for our student athletes, their classmates and teachers. In the end, though, I believe the most important focus should be on student wellness. Delaying school by 25 minutes for our adolescents is an imperfect solution, but at least it’s a step forward in what I hope will be a multi-year journey.”
Board member Gregg Lindner, speaking by phone, was the lone dissenting member, saying, “I do not disagree with a 25-minute change in the start time of the middle school and high school, but I think it should go into effect in the 2018-2019 school year. That would better allow everyone to adjust for the change.” Lindner proposed an amendment to the resolution, delaying the rollout for a year, but there was no second from the board.
The school start time recommendation was approved, 8-1, for the upcoming school year.
Board member Elise Anderson commented, “It’s been almost a year that I’ve been involved on the committee for this, and I appreciate all the conversations within the board, the committees and the community. I ask that the administration continue to diligently listen as we proceed, and be nimble as we identify any possible problems and solutions as we go forward with this.”
At the conclusion of the meeting, Hellrung commented, “It’s rare for our district to be the first in the area, and I think first in the state, on something like this. That’s not in our DNA. But what is in our DNA is a relentless focus on the well-being of our students and our community. Without the superintendent’s leadership from the beginning, there wouldn’t have been a chance of this happening.” Hellrung also credited assistant superintendent John Nolen for persevering on the issue and seeing it to its resolution. The meeting video, and other information related to school district issues, is available at www.ucfsd. org.
To contact Staff Writer John Chambless, email jchambless@chestercounty.com.
Farmers Market season begins May 5th with new manager and new hours
The Kennett Square Farmers Market will kick off the regular weekly season with new hours beginning May 5.
The change, according to new farmers market manager Ros Fenton, means that those who couldn’t get to the market by its 6 p.m. closing time in past seasons will now be able to visit the market.
The new hours will be from 3-7 p.m. on Fridays. The market will continue to be held along the 100 block of East State Street and the Genesis Walkway.
“We did surveys and determined people had a hard time getting there after work,” Fenton said. “We had a good response from the community in support of a change to market hours.”
Oxford budget...
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approve a one-percent tax increase, the average taxpayer in the district would see a $39 increase in the tax bill.
The district will also be dipping into its fund balance in order to balance the budget, although the exact amount that will be allocated won’t be known for some time.
One of the biggest pieces of the school district budget remains somewhat uncertain—how will the state budget’s funding for public education change from one year to the next?
Oxford’s budget was developed anticipating a small increase in the basic education subsidy from the state. However, Oxford officials also anticipated a decrease in the transportation subsidy that it receives from the state.
The proposed final budget will be available for review by the public for one month, and the school board is expected to adopt a final budget at its regular meeting in May.
In other business at the meeting, Oxford Area High School athletic director Michael Price talked about the accomplishments of four standout athletes during the most recent sports season. All four qualified for states in their respective sports.
David Cox, a senior, qualified for states in wrestling for the second year in a row.
The new hours and new manager are not the only changes. Several new vendors have been added, and Fenton will introduce special guest vendors and events throughout the season in an effort to build engagement and make the farmers market a destination for the Kennett community. The first Friday of each month will feature a curated selection of crafts and live music to coincide with Kennett’s monthly Art Stroll.
Fenton has been a customer of the market since her family moved to the area from Los Angeles five years ago. She began her new position as farmers market manager in December.
In L.A., she frequently visited the Hollywood Farmers Market and developed a love
Senior Morgan Curl, who will be heading to the University of Pennsylvania in the fall, made her fourth straight trip to states in swimming. She placed fifth in the 200-meter freestyle at the competition.
Jeb Darhower, a junior, made his second straight trip to states in swimming. He was joined by teammate Michael Fazio, who qualified for the 200-meter freestyle in states. Fazio is only a sophomore.
The school board approved a resolution honoring J. Willard McMullen, who served the district for 37 years as a supervising principal between 1921 and 1958.
The resolution stated that McMullen’s “excellent skills and competencies in working as Oxford Area High School administrator have come to be highly respected by those who knew him...” Numerous family members were on hand to accept a portrait of the longtime school administrator. District employees came across a portrait of McMullen in a storage area of one of the school buildings.
Peggy Ann Russell, a resident of Oxford Borough, addressed the school board regarding the ACE AntiHuman Trafficking Alliance, a group that was founded by local residents to raise awareness about the dangers of modern-day slavery and human trafficking. Russell explained that the problem
of locally sourced foods. Once in Kennett, she said the transition was not that difficult with so much access to local foods year-round.
“Shopping farmers markets, eating locally, and eating seasonally is a way of life for me,” she said.
As the new farmers market manager, she is hoping to share that love with the people of Kennett. Fenton is working to increase communication with market-goers, letting them know what’s available each week through Facebook, Instagram, and an expanded e-newsletter.
“Supporting local farms and food producers and knowing the source of your food is important on many levels,” Fenton said. “And the farmers market is the best place to start. We are so
is more widespread than most people realize. Oxford is close to I-95 and Route 1, and is in close proximity to major urban areas, so it is considered a potential pass-through area for human trafficking.
Russell said that students would benefit greatly from learning about the dangers of human trafficking, and the ACE Anti-Human Trafficking Alliance is willing to pay for two people from the school district to attend a multi-day conference so that they could bring that information back to the rest of the school district.
“I think it would be very beneficial to the Oxford Area School District,” Russell said, adding that the group holds a meeting that is open to the public on the first Saturday of each month at the Oxford Area Senior Center.
The Oxford School Board will meet again for a work session on Tuesday, May 9 and for a regular meeting on Tuesday, May 16. Both meetings will take place at the Administration Building and will begin at 7 p.m.
To contact Staff Writer Steven Hoffman, email editor@chestercounty.com.
lucky to have a year-round market right in town. You can get the freshest locally-grown vegetables and fruits, pastured meats, eggs, honey, maple syrup, baked goods and prepared foods directly from the farmers and producers through every season.”
“Get to know our vendors as you shop the market,” she said. “They are a great community of people who love what they do and love to share it. It’s their livelihood but also a passion.”
Many of last year’s vendors are returning this season. New weekly vendors include Swallow Hill Farm, who has supplied produce to chefs at Talula’s Table and Sovana Bistro; and Joanne’s Candy Kitchen, whose chocolate creations will be a delicious addition. Fenton said The Mushroom Cap will also bring locallygrown and wild-harvested mushrooms to the market every other week.
For information on the Farmers Market: On the Web: Historickennettsquare.com/ recreation-culture/Kennett-square-farmers-market On Facebook: /ksqfarmersmarket On Instagram: /ksqfarmersmarket By phone: 610-444-8188 By email: ksqfarmersmarket@gmail.com
Ros Fenton is the new manager of the Kennett Square Farmers Market. The outside market debuts, with new hours, on Friday, May.
Students help beautify downtown Oxford for Earth Day
By Steven Hoffman Staff Writer
Approximately 30 students from Oxford Area High School spent the day planting flowers, cleaning up the streets, and helping out with a variety of chores to beautify downtown Oxford on April 20, as part of the school’s 12th annual Earth Day spring cleanup. The students’ day of volunteering was coordinated through the Oxford Mainstreet, Inc. (OMI) office, which regularly oversees the beautification efforts. Most of the students who participated in the cleanup
belong to the high school’s LEO’s Club or the Helping Hands Community Service Club.
“Oxford is such a nice community. We love it and we want it to be clean,” said Diana Zavala, the president of the Helping Hands Community Service Club.
Local businesses contributed the flowers, mulch, bags, and other equipment that was used during the cleanup.
Kevin Lentz, a teacher at the high school who also serves as an adviser to the LEOs Club, said that the business owners in town were very receptive
Photo by Steven Hoffman
Ryan Hannum, Matt DeHaut, and Abby Tzanakis, all members of Oxford Area High School’s LEOs Club, clean up a street in downtown Oxford for Earth Day.
to the students’ efforts.
“It went very well,” Lentz said. “The kids were very enthusiastic. We
covered a lot of ground today. I think the kids all understand that this day is all about coming together
and working to improve the community.”
Ryan Hannum and Matt DeHaut, two members of the LEO’s Club, visited senior citizens in the community and helped them clean up around their houses.
“It was nice to be able to help someone out in the community,” Hannum said.
The Helping Hands Community Service Club participates in the annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Service and Make A Difference Day, and raises funds for a variety of causes, including the Make-A-Wish Foundation,
the American Red Cross, and the Chester County Crop Walk. In the Oxford community, the club contributes in a number of different ways, including visiting the elderly, planting flowers, babysitting, and assisting with OMI’s annual Easter Egg Hunt, and more.
Participating in the Earth Day cleanup is important to the students.
“This is the only planet we have so it’s important to take care of it,” Zavala said.
To contact Staff Writer
Steven Hoffman, email editor@chestercounty. com
Parking changes coming to Oxford Borough
By Steven Hoffman Staff Writer
The big topic of discussion in Oxford is the proposed parking garage and transportation center, but there are more immediate changes coming to how and where people park in the borough—and how much they pay to do the parking.
A parking committee is currently working on evaluating all the parking that’s available in the borough, including setting new, higher rates to park in metered spaces.
At its April 17 meeting, Oxford Borough Council took a small action related to developing a new parking plan in town by approving a motion to purchase five kiosks for the unmetered parking lots in the borough.
The kiosks will make it easier for people to pay for parking when they use the lots.
Borough manager Brian Hoover explained that the goal is to establish new parking rates throughout the borough by July 1. There will also be new permitted parking regulations, Hoover said.
In other business at the April 17 meeting, council signed off on an application that the borough is filing for a Community Revitalization Program grant that would be used for the parking garage and transportation center project.
Oxford Borough Council also approved motions to authorize the advertisement of three ordinances—one to establish a parking garage and business office ordinance, one to update
regulations for LED and changeable display signs, and one pertaining to housing standards and rental inspections. The parking garage and business office ordinance will change the regulations pertaining to building heights in the borough, allowing for the construction of the proposed parking garage and transportation center if the borough moves forward with the project.
Borough council adopted an ordinance that amends the intergovernmental cooperation agreement that the borough has with the other member municipalities of the Oxford Area Sewer Authority. The intergovernmental cooperation agreement being amended established a special study group to look at the long-term
operations of the Oxford Area Sewer Authority and the public sewer system. The agreement is being amended so that the sewer authority itself would have representation on the study group.
Oxford Borough Council formally approved the construction of the inclusive playground for Oxford Memorial Park. The construction is approved pending the successful completion of fundraising for the project.
“We’re at $106,000. We’re $49,000 short of what we need,” said council member Paul Matthews, who has spearheaded the project.
Mayor Geoff Henry swore in three new parking enforcement officers— Dennis Boyko, James May, and Michelle Robinson. Henry also unveiled the
results of a recent survey about the proposed parking garage and transportation center that was the subject of an April 11 town hall meeting.
Borough officials emphasized that the online survey was not a scientific one, and would be used only for informational purposes. It was not sanctioned by the borough, and took place through social media.
Henry explained that there were a total of 462 responses. Of those, 38 responses were deemed to be duplicates because they came from the same IP address as another survey response. The online survey that was used identified responses from the same IP address as duplicates even though some of those may have been valid if more than one person from the same
home took the survey. Henry said that there were 424 non-duplicated responses, and the survey results showed that 135 Oxford Borough residents were in favor of the parking garage, while 104 borough residents were against it. For respondents who reside outside the borough, 133 were in favor of the parking garage, while 52 were against it. Henry said that the responses give the borough some sense of how the respondents—a small percentage of the borough’s total residents— are feeling about the project. The comments that were included as part of the survey also add to the feedback that borough officials have received about the project. To contact Staff Writer Steven Hoffman, email editor@chestercounty.com.
Planner tells county leaders: Invest in the existing infrastructure of your towns
By Richard L. Gaw Staff Writer
The latest smart growth presentation by Safety, Agriculture, Villages and Environment, Inc. (S.A.V.E.) held at and co-sponsored by Dansko at its West Grove headquarters on April 18, drew more than 150 of the county’s top environmentalists, preservationists, architects, builders, elected officials and business leaders.
They gathered to hear a keynote speech by city planner Joe Minicozzi of Urban3, a consulting firm created by Asheville, N.C. real estate developer, Public Interest Projects. By the end of Minicozzi’s presentation more than an hour later, it was fairly certain that several of those who are responsible for opening up smart growth opportunities while preserving
open space in the county left Dansko armed with a wealth of ideas.
Idea number one? Attract economic potential to small towns and increase that town’s tax base, and leave the outskirts to the farmers, the conservationists and open space opportunities.
In his presentation “Growth and Preservation: Working Together for Economic Success,” Minicozzi encouraged the audience to re-think how they finance, manage, interact and define existing downtown infrastructure, through the guise of two cities of the same name. He told the audience that he recently visited Rome, Italy with his mother, where he saw clear evidence that the city was reinvesting its dollars within the city limits, and thus reinvigorating its DNA. Conversely, downtown Rome, N.Y., where Minicozzi grew up, committed “economic suicide,” he said, by divesting its economy away from the downtown district and to the suburbs.
Referring to his hometown as an example of a city that reinvests in itself, he said that Asheville went from a decaying, under-served downtown area to a thriving rebirth of walkable streets, a re-imagined business culture and 75 restaurants, that draws ten million tourists a year and has made it one of the most popular destination cities in the U.S. Minicozzi said that a prime indicator of investing
in communities is seen in the numbers. Asheville has a taxable value of $12.8 billion. One renovated historic building in the downtown district, he said, went from having a value of $300,000 value to being valued at $11 million. Translated, that’s a 3,500 percent increase in taxes on the property.
“Just by fixing buildings, Asheville went from a $100 million asset to a $500 million asset,” Minicozzi said. “That’s the power of the economic potency of these urban environments that we’ve tried to shun for the last 50 years, but they’ve been part of our DNA for the last thousand years. They make sense.”
Minicozzi then brought his argument close to home. Comparing values, he said that the taxable value of the historic Kennett Inn is about $2 million a year for less than an acre, while the value of the Shoppes of Longwood is about $50,000 an acre.
“Which one of these is going to produce more wealth for you?” he asked. “Which one of these is going to be here 100 hundred years from now? Think about cultivating your wealth and leaving a legacy for your kids and grandkids.”
Pointing to an overhead relief map of the web-like developments that scissor off from Route 82 toward Unionville, which he called “a weird mitochondria,” Minicozzi told local leaders to determine the choices
they need to make, how they want to change the system, and begin to explore what’s affordable.
“You all have to have a ‘Come to Jesus’ meeting about what you’re doing here,” he said. “You should have an Asheville in Chester County. This isn’t hard stuff. Use the information that’s there and move past the biases you have.
“If you’re not measuring this stuff, you can ‘t manage it, and you can’t make educated decisions about how to bail yourselves out of your problems, and how to make strong economic investments.”
The underlying narrative of Minicozzi’s visionary seemed to have kick-started its momentum from introductory comments by Dansko co-founder Peter Kjellerup, who told the audience that the efforts of local leaders should be dedicated toward “the preservation and balance and harmony that we all deserve.”
“What town do you want to be?” Minicozzi asked the audience. “What genetic material do you have in your town that’s the same or different than that of Philadelphia? Some are growing bigger and faster, so how do you avoid these things?”
In addition to Minicozzi’s presentation, Brian O’Leary, the executive director of the Chester County Planning Commission, gave an update on the progress of Landscapes 3, a strategic planning initiative intended to
balance development and land preservation in the county over the next several decades.
Landscapes 1, adopted in 1996 and Landscapes 2, adopted in 2009, served to launch the conversation on how the county should incorporate smart growth ideas to achieve that balance.
During the last 20 years, O’Leary said that the conversation has been complicated by an increase in population of 100,000 people in the county, but despite the jump, 132,000 acres – 27 percent of the county -- is still preserved as open space, made possible by a $180 million investment by the county.
An additional $50 million investment, O’Leary said, has stimulated growth potential in several towns in the southern portion of the county.
O’Leary said that the key issues facing the county will be to deal with how a projected population growth on school districts, and how a projected growth of 87,000
additional jobs coming into the county over the next decade will impact the need for more homes.
Additional presentations were made by developer Peter Staz of Core Development; Steven Fellin of PennDOT; and Bob Leonard, a PennDOT consultant.
Michael Cowart, a senior at Unionville High School, was the recipient of a $1,000 S.A.V.E. Founders’ Scholarship. The scholarship recognizes the efforts of our local citizens who preserve the quality of life and community character of southern Chester County through smart growth principles. Cowart will be attending Penn State Brandywine in the fall, where he will study electrical engineering, with a career path to pursuing sustainable energy. He was recognized for his efforts to preserve 72 acres in Elk Township. To contact Staff Writer Richard L. Gaw, e-mail rgaw@chestercounty.com.
Photo by Richard L. Gaw Joe Minicozzi, an Asheville, North Carolinabased city planner, served as the event’s keynote speaker.
Photo by Richard L. Gaw
More than 150 of the county’s top environmental, political and business leaders attended S.A.V.E.’s presentation on April 18 at Dansko’s headquarters in West Grove.
New Garden to pull plug on farm purchase if no action by May 15
By Richard L. Gaw Staff Writer
By a vote of 4-1, the New Garden Township Board of Supervisors agreed at its April 17 meeting that if there is no progress made in the on-going negotiations to purchase the 178-acre Green Valley Farm in the township by its next meeting on May 15, the township will pull out of the deal.
On Feb. 23, 2015, the New Garden Township Board of Supervisors voted 3-2 to enter into negotiations to purchase the property for $2.3 million, for the purpose of placing a conservation easement on it. The property, eight contiguous parcels, is located north of Route 41 and is bordered by Penn Green Road on its western edge, Old Baltimore Pike on its northern border, and the area behind the commercial and residential development along Newark Road, on its eastern edge.
The acreage is currently owned in part by former New Garden Township
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supervisor Warren Reynolds and his brother John, who is incapacitated and incapable of managing his own affairs.
For the past two years, the negotiations have been a hodgepodge of delays, likely exacerbated by John’s condition – which has forced the negotiations into the Orphan’s Court in Philadelphia, a division of the Philadelphia Judicial System which serves to protect the personal and property rights of all persons and entities who are otherwise incapable of managing their own affairs.
“We discussed this and we’re ready to pull the chord because we’re getting messed around with on them agreeing to get everything ready for Orphan’s Court,” said board chairman Pat Little, who put forth the motion. “This was supposed to have happened 18 months ago, and they have promised that it would be done by March (of last year), and here we are a year later and nothing’s happened. We’re ready to withdraw our offer, if they don’t get it to
Orphan’s Court by May 15.”
At the board’s meeting on Feb. 16, 2016, township Solicitor Vince Pompo said that Tom Johnson and George Elser, attorneys for the Reynolds family -- the owners of the property -said that the negotiations between family members was expected to be finalized by early April 2016.
This projected finish date to the agreement contradicted what Johnson told the supervisors on Jan. 19, 2016, when he said that a final agreement between family members would be completed by the end of February 2016, and that anticipated final negotiations would begin in March 2016.
To contact Staff Writer Richard L. Gaw, e-mail rgaw@chestercounty.com.
Morning java time
Author Bruce Mowday releases new book
Chester County author
Bruce Mowday will have copies of his new book, “First Date Homicides,” for sale when he takes part in charity events, talks and book signings in the coming month.
Squire Cheyney books is scheduled to release “First Date Homicides” in April. The book is fiction based on frightening facts. The details of murders of Christians across the globe used in the book come straight from published reports. The book uses a fictionalized murder investigation in Chester County and Philadelphia to tell the genocide story.
“This is my first fiction
book, but ‘First Date Homicides’ is more fact than fiction,” Mowday said. “From reading internet newspapers from all over the world for years reporting on the Christian genocide taking place, it was clear the United States media covered only a small fraction of the stories. I wanted to write a book to highlight the issue and thought the fiction setting was the best option.”
Copies of “First Date Homicides” can be obtained from Mowday by emailing him at mowday@mowday. com. The book costs $19.95. Mowday has authored more than 15 books on history, sports, business
and true crime. For more information, visit www. mowday.com.
Mowday is scheduled to talk and sign books at charity and civic events, including a Boy Scouts meeting on April 27 in Marshallton. He will talk about Gettysburg and his book, “Pickett’s Charge: The Untold Story.” He will sign books at the Cathy Miller Cancer Fund event on May 11 at the Concord Country Club at 7 p.m.
On April 26 at 7:30 p.m., Mowday will talk about Jim Herr and his book, “Life With Flavor,” at Shannondell at Valley Forge at 7:30 p.m. On April
30 from noon until 4 p.m., he will be signing books at the Coatesville Parents Music Club fundraising event at East Fallowfield Community Park. On May 5, Mowday will sign books at the Chester County Historical Society from 6 to 8 p.m. as part of West Chester’s First Friday event. The Brandywine Valley Civil War Round Table is hosting Mowday and artist Karl Kuerner on May 3 at 7 p.m. at West Chester Borough Hall. Kuerner and Mowday will preview a series of landscape paintings of Gettysburg and the essays Mowday wrote on Kuerner’s subjects.
Photo by Richard L. Gaw
Join the fight against cancer
Communities
all around the
world hold Relay for Life events
We all have a loved one who has battled against cancer.
The American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life events bring communities together in the global effort to fight back against the dreaded disease, and this is the time of the year when many of these Relay for Life events are taking place. Relay for Life events are held in more than 5,200 communities in 27 different countries around the world.
Locally, the The American Cancer Society Relay For Life of Central Chester County will take place for 24 hours starting on Saturday, May 20 at 10 a.m. through Sunday, May 21 at Downingtown West High School track in Downingtown. The Relay for Life for Kennett and Unionville will take place at Unionville High School starting on Friday, June 2 at 5 p.m. The Relay for Life of Southern Chester County at Oxford will take place at the school track at 301 S. 5th Street in Oxford starting at 5 p.m. on Friday, June 16.
Contributions raised during Relay for Life events are used to fund groundbreaking cancer research, provide essential patient care services to those battling cancer, to move forward education and prevention initiatives, and much more.
Relay for Life teams are formed and team members take turns walking around a track or designated path for a length of time—usually between six and 24 hours. Each team collects donations with the goal of supporting the effort to find a cure for cancer.
A Relay for Life event is very powerful and moving as participants honor those family members and friends who have battled cancer. It is a celebration of all cancer survivors and a remembrance of those who have passed away from the disease. There is a Survivors Lap at Relay for Life events where survivors take a walk around the track while the crowd cheers them on. Some events also have a Caregivers Lap to honor those who have provided care to someone suffering from cancer. A luminaria ceremony is held to remember loved ones who have battled cancer.
People can help out the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life events by becoming a team captain, participating in a Relay event, volunteering at an event, or by making a contribution to support the American Cancer Society’s mission. All of these actions are very worthwhile.
To learn more about how to help out in the fight against cancer, visit the American Cancer Society’s official website at www.cancer.org or call 1-800-227-2345.
Chester County Press
Avon Grove School Board incumbents seek support for Primary Election
Letter to the Editor:
We, Brian Gaerity, Patrick Walker, Ed Farina and Bill Wood are current Avon Grove School Board members, and we are asking for your support at the Primary on May 16. Whether you are a Republican or a Democrat (and all of us will be on both ballots), we believe that working together to provide the best education possible for our students should be a non-partisan goal.
This is an important election for the future of our district. When combining the objective measures of per-pupil spending with student achievement, Avon Grove schools provide the best educational value in
Chester County! We want to maintain this winning combination of achieving high student outcomes and fiscal responsibility to the taxpayer. We believe the best way to do this is to continue supporting the district’s strategic plan that was developed two years ago with input from a broad cross-section of the community. The plan calls for 1) full-day kindergarten (coming next year) that gives our youngest learners more class time to develop academic, as well as social and emotional skills with more individualized attention from their teachers. 2) A change in the high school bell schedule (implemented this year) allows students
more flexible course scheduling and an intervention/ enrichment period that focuses on the specific needs of each individual student. 3) The recently formed Communication/ Community Engagement committee will be seeking more ways to involve parents and the broader community for the benefit of students. 4) A Facilities Input Group (FIG) made up of district representatives, parents and community members is in the midst of a comprehensive, 18 month process exploring all possible options regarding our school buildings, which are in need of extensive repairs, are at or above enrollment capac-
ity, or both. 5) Improved and expanded professional development is in the works to help teachers and staff stay highly trained and highly motivated. We believe that continuing this plan will ensure that our schools stay strong, our property values increase, and (most importantly) our students will have futures full of promise and opportunity, all while keeping taxes amongst the lowest in the county and state. Please vote for Gaerity, Walker, Farina, Wood on May 16! Thank you.
Pennsylvania’s townships urge lawmakers to stop pushing state’s responsibilities down to local government
Local government remains the most efficient, effective, and responsive to citizens, and township officials continue to urge Harrisburg and Washington to stop passing laws and regulations that undermine their authority and waste taxpayer money. Promoting local control and demanding an end to unfunded mandates were key themes among township officials who gathered in Hershey April 23 to 26 for the 95th Annual Educational Conference of the Pennsylvania State Association of Township Supervisors (PSATS).
In the resolutions they passed guiding the association’s legislative priorities, close to 2,500 conference attendees stood united in their belief that the government closest to the people is the most efficient and responsive.
“Some people still want to erase Pennsylvania’s grassroots governing system,” PSATS Executive Director David M. Sanko said, “even though it’s more effective and mindful about spending than either Harrisburg or Washington.”
He noted that lawmakers in Harrisburg and Washington, instead of reforming and reining in spending, prefer to push state and federal responsibilities down to local government.
“Who is left holding the bag? Townships,” he said. “Any proposal that tries to solve Harrisburg’s financial problems on the backs of communities that are fiscally responsible and doing the right thing is dangerous.”
As an example, he refers to a proposal in Gov. Tom Wolf’s budget to include a $25 per person tax on municipalities that rely exclusively on State Police for protection, a plan that concerns many PSATS members.
“This new state tax on municipalities would be the first of its kind and change the partnership
between state and local government by opening the possibility that municipalities will become another bank account to be tapped when the state needs revenue,” Sanko said. “What is next? An invoice for the use of state crime labs or the State Police helicopter? Instead of a new tax, PSATS urges the legislature to consider meaningful reforms that will reduce the financial burden on townships that provide local protection and remove barriers for those that would like to have local police but can’t afford to. Reform of the collective bargaining process, the option to provide defined contribution plans to new public safety employees, and creative alternatives for providing local police service, such as a resident trooper program, are more feasible solutions.
“Those of us in local government have learned not to let our guard down when it comes to decisions made in Harrisburg and Washington,” Sanko said. “All too often, townships and their residents pay the price for overzealous regulations that townships are required to implement without the accompanying dollars necessary to fund them.”
He points to the unintended financial consequences of the state’s Right-to-Know
Law and the increasing costs to pay for legal advertising requirements as examples of laws that cost townships unnecessary expenditures.
Although PSATS supports the public’s right to view and obtain copies of public documents, the association would like to see reforms that authorize municipalities to charge additional fees for commercial requests, protect sensitive information, limit the types of records that inmates may request, reduce the prepayment cap from the current $100 to $50, and exempt home addresses of employees.
Likewise, townships would like to see reforms to mandated municipal employee benefits that would bring relief to distressed municipal pension plans. Municipalities should be given the tools to properly fund benefits so that police and fire employees receive the benefits they have earned. PSATS supports changes to state law that would allow townships to place new officers into a defined contribution or cash balance plan and prohibit collective bargaining of pension benefits beyond those mandated by the state. Finally, PSATS remains committed to any effort that will help to recruit and retain volunteer emergency service providers whose numbers continue to dwindle at the local level. During the conference, PSATS unveiled a model ordinance that allows townships to set up tax credits for volunteer firefighters. In addition to discussing these and other legislative priorities of the association, conference attendees heard from Gov. Tom Wolf (via videotape), Sen. Scott Wagner, Rep. Kate Harper, Secretary of Transportation Leslie Richards, acting Secretary of Environmental Protection Patrick McDonnell, State Police Commissioner Tyree Blocker, and Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency Director Richard Flinn during the threeand-a-half-day event. The Pennsylvania State Association of Township Supervisors represents Pennsylvania’s 1,454 townships of the second class and is committed to preserving and strengthening township government and securing greater visibility and involvement for townships in the state and federal political arenas. Townships of the second class cover 95 percent of Pennsylvania’s land mass and represent more residents — 5.5 million — than any other type of political subdivision in the commonwealth.
Brian Gaerity Patrick Walker
Ed Farina
Bill Wood
Courtesy photo
Close to 2,500 township officials and their guests gathered for the 95th Annual Educational Conference of the Pennsylvania State Association of Township Supervisors, held April 23 to 26 in Hershey. In addition to hearing from guest speakers, township officials discussed issues and proposed legislation, attended educational sessions and the state’s largest municipal trade show, and elected officers.
Chester County Press
Local News
Walking trails...
Continued from Page 1A
literally walk in the footsteps of the artists.
The trails are marked with directional signs, but are not paved. There is an orientation sign on the edge of Potts Meadow, where walkers enter the trail. At the eastern end of the trail is the Chadds Ford Township building, which was once the summer studio where artist Howard Pyle taught a young N.C. Wyeth and other artists of the late 1800s and early 1900s. The location is just a short distance from Kuerner Farm, where Andrew Wyeth completed hundreds of artworks, as well as the iconic Kuerner Hill.
The year of celebration continues with a major retrospective exhibition of the work of Andrew Wyeth –the largest ever organized by the museum – plus programs
Uncle Irvin...
Continued from Page 1A
and activities highlighting the organization’s commitment to art and the environment. In addition to a 50th Anniversary Gala on April 29, there will be ongoing events, including:
Andrew Wyeth: In Retrospect
June 24 to Sept. 17
This exhibition of iconic works commemorates the centennial of the art-
ist’s birth. It will include more than 100 works spanning Wyeth’s entire career, from the early works that quickly established his reputation to his final painting, “Goodbye,” completed months before his death in 2009.
Andrew Wyeth 100th Birthday Celebration and Stamp First-Day-of-Issue July 12
Free admission all day. The U.S. Postal Service will host the official release party at the museum of a set of 12 stamps inspired by the art of Andrew Wyeth. The day’s events also feature special activities.
The crux of the matter is a split in the medical community pitting the U.S. government CDC, large teaching hospitals and the drug industry, all represented by the huge Infectious Disease Society of America (IDSA). While ICADS represent hundreds of thousands of individual past and present victims of what they believe is long term
Lyme disease, the industry counterpart IDSA -- whose members represent the U.S. government CDC and elected politicians, a vast majority of physicians, teaching hospitals, and the drug industry – has all the money and clout, and has been virtually unchallenged to see Lyme disease as two headed -- present stage and long term.
The IDSA’s one-sided policy has thwarted research, disallowed health insurance benefits, and forced the vast majority of Lyme disease patients to fight their battles through small local cells to fend for themselves.
One such local organization is the Lyme disease Association of Southeastern PA. For further information, call Christa Vanderbilt at 610-388-7333 or Douglas W. Fearn, a co-volunteer who authored the group’s booklet on Lyme disease.
Until and unless these adversaries hash out their differences and develop a comprehensive program that services both short- and long-term patients, a possible cure will be hard to come by.
(Uncle Irvin’s column is his opinion only, and is not a news story.)
Native Plant Gardens Tour
July 23, noon to 5 p.m.
Discover six diverse gardens in the area that show how to use native plants in a home setting on this special tour sponsored by the Brandywine Conservancy. Ticket sales start May 13.
Bike the Brandywine Sept. 30
The second annual event offers three distance loop choices (25, 50, and 100 miles), each highlighting the scenery, history and lure of the Brandywine Creek Greenway and surrounding countryside. Proceeds from the ride benefit the Conservancy’s clean water programs.
The new trails are marked on a map at the entrance.
Photo by John Chambless
The Chadds Ford Township building incorporates a building which was once the summer studio of artist Howard Pyle.
Photo by John Chambless
The mowed trail is marked with directional arrows.
Collective effort has Kennett softball team off to a strong start
By Steven Hoffman Staff Writer
The Kennett High School softball team is finding different ways to win games as it has gotten off to a very strong start to the 2017 season.
On some days, the team slugs its way to victory.
Senior Sarah Oscar belted two home runs in the 12-8 win over Henderson on April 19. The balanced offense also led the way in victories over Unionville and Octorara. On other days, it’s the pitching of Madison Bowe that makes the difference. In some of the team’s wins in close games, it might come down to good baserunning or solid defense.
Every game has its own narrative, but so far this season the Kennett softball team has earned six victories in eight tries.
“We’re off to a nice start,” said first-year head coach Lauren Gottstein. “It’s been a real collective effort. It’s never just one person. They are all working really hard, and I couldn’t be more proud of them.”
Although this is Gottstein’s first season at the helm, she knew many of the players from her time as a coach at the Kennett Middle School, and knew that the team had the potential to have a very good season.
Leadership has played an important part in Kennett’s success, and the team is filled with smart, experienced players— including seniors Bowe, Oscar, Kylee Harvey,
Samantha Weaver, Margaret O’Sullivan, and Jamie Wessels. The senior leaders on the team have helped ease the transition to playing on varsity for a group of talented freshmen—Jordan Barish, Kara Murphy, and Ainsley Albert. Freshman players have seen significant playing time so far this season, and have all made important contributions for Kennett.
There is a good balance to this year’s team, and it’s producing results on the field.
Harvey, who is heading to Sacred Heart University to play softball next year, has twice been named to the Ches-Mont League First Team, and was a Second Team selection as a freshman in 2014. She provides good pop in the middle of Kennett’s order, usually batting third where she can drive in runs and set the table for the hitters who follow her.
Gottstein said that Harvey is also a standout in center field, where she will track down anything hit in the vicinity.
Weaver usually occupies the leadoff spot in the Kennett lineup, and is one of the reasons that the team’s offense is so productive. Weaver plays shortstop in the field, and will be playing at Lebanon Valley College next year. She is also instrumental in keeping the team focused and upbeat.
“She has a really positive attitude,” Gottstein said.
Carleigh Smith, a junior, primarily plays third base,
but her coach said that she also can play well at first base or even catch, if needed.
“She’s a real utility player,” Gottstein said. “She can play anywhere, and she’s one of those kids who is always working hard.”
O’ Sullivan and Murphy share time in right field in what has been a very effective platoon. O’
Sullivan just got accepted into Wake Forest University for academics. She has helped Murphy, a freshman, adjust to playing at varsity.
Gottstein said that Murphy is always willing to learn, and will go to the seniors on the team for advice.
“She’s one of those players who is always saying, ‘Coach, what do I need to fix?’” Gottstein explained.
Barish has stepped in at second base and made all the plays as a freshman. Ainsley Albert, another freshman, has spent a lot of time in left field early in the season.
“Ainsley is really growing into her game,”
Gottstein said. “She plays a lot of travel ball, mostly as a catcher, but she does what we need her to do.”
Bowe is bound for Swarthmore College in the fall. She has been a consistently good pitcher for Kennett. She will never beat herself on the mound.
“She hasn’t walked a person all season, I don’t think,” said Gottstein.
“As a coach, that’s really important. It really works to our advantage.”
Bowe has been aided by catcher Jamie Wessels, who returned to the team this season after not playing last season. Wessels can call a very good game, and she handles all facets of the catching duties well.
“She has really stepped up and been a leader behind the plate,” Gottstein said. “She’s been a great asset for us in the field and at bat.”
Gottstein wants her hitters to focus on putting the ball in play rather than trying to hit home runs, and that’s one of the reasons for Kennett’s success.
“I tell them, ‘you’re not all going to hit home runs.
Just go up there and hit a single,’” she explained.
Gottstein added that there have been a few times this season when Oscar has slugged a home run only to come back to the bench and tell her coach that she was just trying to hit a single, but the ball cleared the fence. The lesson is that if you focus on making good contact rather than worrying about home runs, good things will happen.
Another reason for the team’s success is its depth. Gottstein said that the team’s reserves—junior Kathleen Schuetz, sophomores Elaina Maahs and Bejonsey Coleman, and freshman Aleena Schannauer—have also played an important role in the team’s success.
On a team with five seniors, playing time can be hard to come by, but everyone continues to work hard, the coach said.
“They come to practice every day ready to work,” Gottstein said of the reserves. “They know that their roles are very important, and that this is a team effort.”
As good as the team has been on the softball field this season, they may be even better in the classroom. Gottstein enjoys telling the story about how she had to cancel a practice earlier this year when it fell on the same evening as a National Honor Society meeting. So many players on the team belong to the National Honor Society that there wasn’t any reason to hold a practice without them.
The second half of the
season will be a good test for Kennett. A few players said that they are particularly looking forward to playing Avon Grove because the Red Devils have been one of the best teams in the Ches-Mont League in recent seasons. That game has been rescheduled for Tuesday, May 2 after a rain-out.
The players are pleased with how the season has unfolded so far, but they know that a lot of hard work will be necessary to finish the season strong in the tough Ches-Mont League. The players are ready for the challenge.
“I think our senior leadership is strong this year,” said Weaver, explaining that the seniors make a point to work with and help the younger players.
Harvey said that she thinks that there is a positive atmosphere around this team. The freshmen players have blended nicely with the more experienced players. She said that the team knew when they beat Bayard Rustin twice with good hitting, pitching, and defense that they were on the path to a successful season. The hard-fought victory over Henderson also helped the players believe in themselves.
“Every single person in the lineup made a difference in that game,” Harvey said. “It was a good win for us.” If that collective effort continues, more wins are coming Kennett’s way.
To contact Staff Writer Steven Hoffman, email editor@chestercounty.com.
Courtesy photo
The Kennett High School softball team is off to a strong start to the 2017 season thanks to a collective effort that finds each player making a contribution.
KENNETH
E. WORKMAN
Kenneth E. Workman, 71, passed away at his residence on April 12 after a courageous battle with cancer.
He was the husband of Sheri Sylvina Workman, with whom he shared 19 years of marriage. Born in Dover, Del., he was the son of Helen Dixon Workman of Avondale, and the late Ralph Workman. He was the vice president of operations at Meadowwood Retirement Community in Worcester, Pa., retiring in 2016. He was the former director of campus ministries at Tupelo Children’s Mansion. He was a graduate of Dover Central High School. He studied music and education at West Chester University, and studied social work at University of Mississippi. He also studied business at Century College. He enjoyed the beach, gardening, music, trips to Disney World, and being with his family, especially his grandchildren. He served his country in the U.S. Navy.
In addition to his wife and mother, he is survived by two daughters, Jennifer Workman Meehan and her husband Brian of Newark, Del., and Kristen Rushing and her husband Paul of West Grove; four grandchildren, Lauren, Brian, Emily and Olivia; and a brother-in-law, Michael Sylvina and his wife Suzanne of West Grove. He was predeceased by his maternal grandparents, Dewey and Ida Dixon; and his paternal grandparents, Earl and Anna Workman.
A memorial service was held April 19. In lieu of flowers, a contribution may be made to the Ronald McDonald House of Delaware, 1901 Rockland Road, Wilmington, DE 19803. Online condolences may be made by visiting www.griecocares.com.
RAY M. PAISLEY
Ray McNeil Paisley, 87, of Genesee, Pa., and formerly Landenberg, went home to be with his Lord on April 17 at his daughter Karen’s home in Nottingham, surrounded by his family. Born in Avondale, he was the son of the late Cecil and Maggie (McMillan) Paisley. He and his wife, Edna Lois (Miles) Paisley celebrated 64 years of marriage in April. Ray worked most of his life as a carpenter.
Surviving, besides his wife, are daughters Deborah Sue, wife of Larry Gale of Lake Wales, Fla., and Karen Lynn, wife of Jerry Schroder of Nottingham; along with a son, Dennis Ray and his wife Suzan of Genesee. He is also survived by seven grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild; and three brothers. He was preceded in death by a brother.
A graveside service was conducted on April 22 in Genesee, Pa. Contributions may be made in Ray’s memory to Brandywine River Valley Hospice, 121 Bell Tower Rd., Oxford, PA 19363; or Cole Memorial Home Health and Hospice, 102-108 Main St., Coudersport, PA 16915. For online condolences, visit www.dewalds.com.
MARY LEE DUVALL
Mary Lee Duvall, 56, of Oxford, passed away on April 13 at her residence.
Born in Butler, Tenn., she was the daughter of the late Billy Gene and Sinda Walker Dugger. Mary Lee was an avid Philadelphia Eagles fan and enjoyed going to Delaware Park. She enjoyed being with her granddaughter, Amyia.
She is survived by two sons, Joseph Duvall and his wife Shani of Kennett Square, and Christopher Dugger of Tennessee; three brothers, James Dugger of Oxford, Verlin Short of Avondale, and Bill Dugger of Tennessee; and one granddaughter, Amyia. Her service and burial was held privately. Online condolences may be made by visiting www.griecocares.com.
April 26
Joseph’s People meeting
The monthly Joseph’s People for the unemployed/ underemployed will be on April 26 at 6:45 p.m. in the parish life center (lower level) of ABVM’s Church (300 State Rd.). The speaker will be State Rep. John Lawrence. His topic will be job seeker state resources. Visit www. josephspeople.org or email johnfcolgan@gmail.com.
April 28-29
Rummage sale
The Spring Rummage Sale at Avondale Presbyterian Church (420 Pennsylvania Ave., Avondale) will be held on April 28 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., and April 29 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. There will be children’s and adult clothing all sizes, shoes, household goods, games and toys, tools, linens, collectibles and more. Items in good condition can be dropped off from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the church front lobby through April 27. All proceeds benefit missions. Call 610-268-2919 or visit www.AvondalePC.org.
May 6
‘Attic Treasures’
The “Attic Treasurers” sale takes place on May 6 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Grove United Methodist Church. There will be used
LEONA ELLEN HERB BOGUS
Leona Ellen Herb Bogus, 97, went home to be with the Lord on April 17, surrounded by family. She “fought the good fight, finished the race, and kept the faith.” (2 Timothy 4:7). Her faith in Jesus was central to her life. Her favorite hymn was “Trust and Obey.”
Born in Shamokin, Pa., in 1919, she was the daughter of the late Gurney and Maude (Morgan) Herb. Leona was predeceased by all her siblings: Leroy, Gurney, and Jay Herb, Marcella Herb, Treina (Herb) Magennis, and LaRue (Herb) Beck. She shared 68 years of marriage with Edward Bogus, until his passing in September 2014. She is survived by her children, Karen (Frank) McCardell of Strasburg, Charles “Chuck” (Pamela) Bogus of Nottingham, Elaine (Barry) Morrison of Kirkwood, and Faye (Ed) Max of Honey Brook; eight grandchildren; and 16 great-grandchildren.
A resident of Oxford since 1958, Leona was the oldest living member of the First Baptist Church, where she taught Sunday school and served for many years as president of the Stafford Missionary Society. At 9 years old, Leona learned to sew and later worked in a sewing factory. She sewed for her family, children she babysat, mission projects and craft fairs. Baking cookies and other treats for her family was another favorite activity.
During World War II, she worked in an airplane factory, welding inside the wings. Later, she babysat many children in her Oxford home. She enjoyed traveling around the country with her husband and family members. A highlight of her summer was the Herb Family Reunion.
The family wishes to express their appreciation to the caring staff at Ware Presbyterian Home and Heartland Hospice.
A memorial service was held April 22. Interment was private. In lieu of flowers, donations in Leona’s memory may be made to the First Baptist Church, 525 Market St., Oxford PA 19363. Online condolences may be made at www.elcollinsfuneralhome.com.
JOSEPH KMECK
Joseph Kmeck, 94, of Kennett Square, peacefully passed away on April 18, surrounded by his loving family.
Originally from Jersey City, N.J., Joseph was a son of the late John Kmeck and the late Mary Grofik. After graduating from Lincoln High School in Jersey City, Joseph went on to serve our country for two tours of duty in North Africa and Italy as a B24 mechanic with the U.S. Army Air Corps during World War II. Joseph continued his passion for aviation after the war as a mechanic for American Airlines and an aircraft instrumentation technician for the Bendix Corporation. He was also an active member of the Pyramidiers 98th Bomb Group (H) Veterans Association and reunited with his fellow bomb group comrades many times at annual meetings with his wife, Julia.
Joseph was deeply religious, and his loyalty to his Christian faith and family was unmatched. Joseph was an avid fisherman and enjoyed many hours fishing along the New Jersey coast, offshore and in Barnegat Bay. He introduced his family to the enjoyment of boating, fishing, and crabbing during wonderful summers at the Jersey Shore.
Joseph is survived by his wife, Julia Jagielski, with whom he shared 71 years of marriage. He is also survived by his son, Joseph Kmeck, Jr., of Erie, Colo.; his daughter, Joan Phillips and her husband Lou of Kennett Square; his grandchildren, Julianne Martin and her husband Travis of Gilbertsville, Emily Harris and her husband Adrian of Newtown Square, Mark Phillips of Kennett Square; and his three great-grandchildren, Gabriela, Claire, and Jack. Joseph was predeceased by his four brothers, Charles, John, George, and Nicholas.
JOAN TESTA CARDILE
Joan Testa Cardile, 82, formerly of Kennett Square, peacefully passed away on April 12 at Neshaminy Manor in Warrington, Pa.
Born in Lansford, Pa., she was a daughter of the late Harry (Enrico) Testa and Lena Canonico Testa Flammini. Joan worked as a settlement coordinator for various organizations, and ultimately retired from Prudential Fox & Roach Realty of Kennett Square. She enjoyed reading and cooking, but most of all loved spending time with her family and friends. She will be remembered for her selfless nature and great sense of humor.
Joan is survived by her three children, Karen and her husband Kenny of Parkertown, N.J.; Harry and his wife Laura of Atlanta, Ga.; and Maria and her husband Steve of Doylestown; her brother, Sam Flammini and his wife Kim of Kennett Square; her sister, Rosemarie DePoulter of West Grove; eight grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; her dear cousins Shirley and Bill Fantini of Bala Cynwyd; and several nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her brother, James Testa. A funeral was held April 18. Online condolences may be shared with the family at www.griecocares.com.
JODI LYNN MELRATH
Jodi Lynn Melrath, 53, of Wilmington, Del., formerly of Oxford, passed away peacefully at home on April 18. She was born in 1963 in Lancaster, Pa., to the late Earl and Mona Melrath. She is survived by her brother, Earl Melrath, Jr.; sister, Patty (David); companion and caregiver, Eddie Dunfee; as well as several aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and many cousins and friends. She was predeceased in death by her sister, Terrye Melrath Compton.
She loved all genres of music, from country to rock, her favorite being Guns N Roses, and the Melrath theme song, “Family Tradition.” She loved all animals and had a wide variety of pets over the years, including dogs, cats, guinea pigs, rabbits and even a gecko. Her favorite pastimes were drawing and writing poetry.
A memorial was held April 23. To send online condolences, visit www.rtfoard.com.
books, jewelry, snacks to go, and household items. Light refreshments are available. Call 610-348-0421 or visit www.grovechurch.org.
A service was held April 24. Interment was held privately at Brigadier General William C. Doyle Veterans Memorial Cemetery. Contributions in Joseph’s memory may be made to Wounded Warrior Project, P.O. Box 758517, Topeka, KS 66675. To view Joseph’s online tribute and to share a memory with his family, visit www.griecocares.com.
Alleluia
‘He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.’ Revelation 21:4
TheChesterCountyPressfeaturesadedicatedchurch/religious pagethatcanhelpyouadvertiseyourhouseofworshipand/or business.Thepageisupdatedweeklywithnewscripture.Only$10 Weeklyforthisspace. Weareofferingaspecialdiscountof25%offeachandeveryhelp wanted/classifiedadvertisementtoanybusinessthatadvertiseson thePRESSchurchpage. For more information or to place an ad, contact Brenda Butt at 610-869-5553 ext. 10
Kennett plant sale slated April 29
On the last Saturday in March and the last Saturday in May, members of the Kennett Beautification Committee gather to plant approximately 42 barrels and 14 large containers with flowers in downtown Kennett Square. They also plant at the Kennett Police Station and the Genesis Walkway.
Some members of the Four Seasons Garden Club plant at the parking garage, the Miller’s Hill garden at South Walnut Street, the Food Cupboard, and plant and maintain the War of 1812 Memorial Garden on East Cypress Street. At the entrance to Kennett Square by Waywood
TIMOTHY JOHNSON
Timothy Johnson, 55, of West Grove, passed away on April 6. Born at Jennersville Hospital, he was the son of Marian Moran Johnson and the late Lewis H. Johnson. Tim was a 1979 graduate of Avon Grove High School. He enjoyed watching NASCAR, sports and old TV shows. He especially enjoyed spending time with his dog, Maggie, and his cat, Dusty.
He is survived by two brothers, Tom (Chris) of Highland Springs, Va., and Mickey (Sharon) of Wilmington, Del.; and one sister, Nancy Graham of Cochranville. He is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, grandnieces and grandnephews. He was predeceased by two brothers, Jim and Bob. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you make donations to the Gift Of Life Donor Program.
JOHN W. BRADLEY
John William Bradley, 73, of Landenberg, peacefully passed away on April 11, surrounded by his loving family. Born in Wilmington, Del., he was a son of the late John Francis and the late Alice Williams Bradley. He was a graduate of Brandywine High School. After graduation, he served in the military at the Delaware Army National Guard. John worked for DuPont for 37 and a half years before his retirement. He was most notably an instrument technician, but also fulfilled other roles, such as laboratory technician and carpenter. John was also the president of the local DuPont Edgemoor United Steelworkers Union for three years.
John is survived his wife, Gail, with whom he shared 31 years of marriage. He is also survived by his son, James Bradley of West Grove; his grandchildren, Tyler and Samantha; his brother Jim and his wife Laurette of Boca Raton, Fla.; his sisters, Donna Ruggio and her husband Bob of Hockessin, Del., and Diane Erace of Miami, Fla.; and his nieces Noelle Thomas of Miami, Fla., and Chelsea Erace of Wilmington, Del.
A visitation with family and friends will be held from 2 to 4 p.m. April 29 at Kuzo & Grieco Funeral Home (250 W. State St., Kennett Square). A memorial service celebrating his life will follow at 4 p.m. Interment will be held privately. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Delaware Hospice, 16 Polly Drummond Shopping Center, Newark, DE 19711. To view his online tribute and to share a memory with his family, visit www.griecocares.com.
Beverage is a garden planted and maintained by The Spade and Trowel Club. Thanks to the Borough of Kennett Square, follow-up watering of the barrels and containers is done at least two times a week to keep the plants healthy and hydrated.
All plants are paid for by the Beautification
Committee through money raised at the Annual Beautification Plant Sale, to be held on April 29 in the Genesis Walkway from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Annuals, perennials, vegetables, herbs, native plants, grasses, hanging baskets, dahlia bulbs and donated plants will be for sale.
Teams sought for Relay for Life
The American Cancer Society is seeking teams for the 2017 Relay For Life of Central Chester County.
Relay For Life is the American Cancer Society’s signature overnight fundraising activity. Teams gather with tents and sleeping bags to participate in the largest fundraising walk in the nation. Relay For Life unites friends, families, businesses, hospitals, schools and churches. Teams fundraise prior to the event, all with the goal of supporting a cure for cancer.
The theme this year is “Sea A Cure.” Teams are encouraged to sign up to join the American Cancer Society Relay For Life of Central Chester County to take place for 24-hours starting on Saturday, May 20 at 10 a.m. through Sunday, May 21 at Downingtown West High School track in Downingtown. The Survivor Celebration of Life will be held on May 20 at 6 p.m., and the Luminaria Ceremony is also on May 20 starting at 9 p.m.
“The event is very powerful and moving. We have an extremely dedicated committee that works very hard all year to put on this incredible event,” said event leadership chair Dawn Kirsch. “I truly love this event. It celebrates all cancer survivors, acknowledges caregivers and in a very touching and beautiful way, remembers those whom we have lost. Individuals, who are willing to give their time and energy to this exciting family friendly, community event, have made a commitment to fight back against cancer.
“While teams take turns walking or running around the track, we have a DJ, bands, food concessions, activities, games and much more. Over the past 22 years, the Relay For Life of Central Chester County has raised over $5 million. Much of the money raised stays right here in our area.”
For more information, contact Amanda Childs at Amanda.Childs@ cancer.org or visit www. RelayForLife.org/paccc.
Planters around Kennett Square are maintained by the Kennett Beautification Committee, as well as other groups.
Franklin Supervisors approve tax relief for emergency workers
By John Chambless Staff Writer
On April 19, the Franklin Township Board of Supervisors unanimously approved Act 172, which provides 100 percent of the EIT and 20 percent of municipal real estate tax relief for township residents who are active volunteers of fire companies and nonprofit emergency medical services agencies. The ordinance, which was introduced in February, has been enacted in townships across the region as a way of providing incentive for volunteering for fire and rescue services, which are declining in membership.
Township Solicitor Max O’Keefe opened the public hearing, and noted the ordinance was duly advertised. There was no public comment, and O’Keefe closed the public hearing. The board then enacted the ordinance, which amends Chapter 24 of the Code of Ordinances Taxation Special and adds a new Part 4, Volunteer Service Tax Credit and amends Part 1 Earned Income Tax.
Township Manager Joan McVaugh updated the board on zoning violations that have been occurring at 1620 New London Rd. According to a report from Zoning Officer Jeffrey
Vogels of LTL Consultants, Ltd., “a complaint was received regarding the use of the property for a possible business, early morning noise from employees and their vehicles, as well as dust from their vehicles. The property is currently registered as residential and there is no record for a change of use for a business.
“A letter was issued March 9, 2016, requesting clarification of the use and the requirement for permits. Owner contacted the township and stated that proper applications would be submitted,” the report reads. “Applications have been received but additional
UHS Indoor Percussion Ensemble named seventh best in the world
Unionville High School’s Indoor Percussion Ensemble returned from the Winter Guard International World Championships in Dayton, Ohio, as the seventh best in the world in the Scholastic A Division.
Unionville competed against 64 groups from around the country in the preliminary round to advance to the semi-final round against 32 groups, and then to the finals against the best 15 groups in the country. This was Unionville’s second trip to the World Championships and their first as a world finalist.
Unionville is also ending their season as the
Mid Atlantic Percussion Society Scholastic A Champions and the WGI East Power Regional Scholastic A Champions. The 25-member ensemble showed great dedication to their craft, with practice three times a week for three hours per night. Almost every
Saturday was more than a 12-hour day with practice and a competition, which sometimes took place in a neighboring state. The students used a broad array of percussion instruments including drums, cymbals, marimbas and electronic effects to present their show, “The Drought.”
information is required to make a determination.
An additional complaint was received regarding the tenant allowing oil to be spilled onto the ground. The owner was contacted and was told this must stop immediately. He will speak to the tenant regarding this matter.
“On July l, 2016, DEP was notified via e-mail regarding the oil spill. ... DEP continues to monitor the site,” the report continues. “The owner’s attorney met with the Board of Supervisors in early August. He was advised by the board and will make application for multiple uses of the property. As
An Avondale woman was arrested for a shooting incident on April 8, according to the Southern Chester County Regional Police Department. Police said that on April 8, just after midnight, police responded to a report of a domestic incident involving a firearm. The caller said Christine Wittman, 44, had pointed a gun at him and three other people in the home. The guests left, leaving the victim in the home with Wittman. She allegedly pointed the gun at the victim and then fired one round through a wall before locking herself in a bedroom with
of Nov. 7, 2016, there has been no further action by the owner, but he stated by phone that an engineer has been on site, plans are in progress, and most of the engine repair business has been removed.”
Neighbors have reported that most of the noise that had been reported between 9 p.m. and 7 a.m. has stopped. An application for a conditional use for the property was received by the township on March 20, 2017.
The board unanimously appointed resident Shelly McCoy to serve as the township’s representative to the Avon Grove Library Board. McCoy is a librarian
the gun. Officers from several agencies secured the scene, and Wittman was told to leave the gun and come outside. She was charged with recklessly endangering another person and harassment. She was taken to Chester County Prison after failing to post bail.
VEHICLE STOLEN Pennsylvania State Police Avondale reported that a utility vehicle was stolen from North Creek Nursery in East Nottingham Township on April 3.
FOUR-WHEELER
STOLEN A barn at 265 Good Hope Road in London Britain Township was broken into on March 27 and a John Deere four-wheeler was stolen, according to Pennsylvania State Police Avondale.
with 18 years of library experience. She discussed the relevance of the library in today’s electronic age, how the library serves as a resource for the public who otherwise do not have access to computers and that it is also a resource for those in need of career guidance and resume writing assistance. The board members thanked McCoy for her service to the township. Updated information is available on the township’s website, www. franklintownship.us.
To contact Staff Writer John Chambless, email jchambless@chestercounty. com.
GATE STOLEN A homeowner at 612 Kennett Pike in Pennsbury Township reported that an antique wooden gate and a black metal wood stacker were stolen from his property overnight on March 8, according to Pennsylvania State Police Avondale. Anyone with information is asked to call Trooper Ryan Ard at 610-268-2022.
DUI On Feb. 7, Nicholas Grove, 21, of Newark, Del., was stopped by Pennsylvania State Police Avondale when he was driving in West Nottingham Township, and was found to be under the influence of methamphetamines and morphine. He also had a large amount of drug paraphernalia. He was charged with DUI and other related charges.
ARREST IN SHOOTING
Straight 2-3 Boxing Club: Oxford’s home of champions
By Richard L. Gaw Staff Writer
At the Straight 2-3 Boxing Club in Oxford, owned and operated by Dwayne Phipps, there is very little in the way of aesthetic and marketing fanfare.
Operated out of a corner wedge of space in a long warehouse row on Old Baltimore Pike, the club doesn’t have a sign. Its interior back walls are lined with boxing posters, and seating is in the form of unglamorous benches that tell the visitor that this is not a place of grandeur.
It’s the bare bones of what Phipps has intended it to be, a classroom where the “Sweet Science” of boxing is studied with the same intensity as a doctorate-level neuroscience symposium taught at MIT.
Now in its third year, the Straight 2-3 Boxing Club has already been producing some incredibly gifted students. Two stand out: Phipp’s 11-year-old son Cornellio, nicknamed
“Chada,” and 20-yearold Bahieem Billups. Working in the 75-pound weight class and sporting a 27-10 overall record, Cornellio is a two-time Pennsylvania Silver Glove state champion, and won the 2016 Ringside World National Championship in Independence, Mo. He also won the 2017 Hometown Heroes Boxing Championship in Charleston, W.Va. “Cornellio has the ability to take himself to an Olympic team, and make a good living from the sport,” Phipps said. “You ask him what he wants and he will tell you, ‘I want to be the best.’ He loves the spotlight.”
Currently boxing in the 152-pound weight division, Billups is the 2017 Pennsylvania Golden Gloves Eastern Regional Champion. Having only taken up the sport two years ago, he now trains seven days a week, and has only one goal in mind: The 2020 Olympics in Tokyo. “God willing, Bahieem
can go all the way to the Olympics,” Phipps said. “That’s our goal. He has three more years, and then we see him going back to the Olympics four years later. Bahieem has done a lot in a short period of time, and if he continues to work hard and train, the sky is the limit for him. The Olympics is a way to represent your country, and he has the ability to get him there.”
He is in training to compete at the National Gold Gloves in Lafayette, La. Billups said his inspiration is driven in part by his mother, who died six months ago.
“She always wanted the best for her son,” Phipps added. “Bahieem’s transition – his story alone -- is enough to get him over the hump. It will allow him to say, ‘I have the skills, and I will embark upon those skills.’”
Phipps, 39, who got boxing training from legendary Delaware boxing icon Dave Tiberi when he was younger, began to
teach his son the basics of the sport, beginning when Cornellio was 6. By the time he was 8, Phipps saw a natural talent in his son, and decided to take on the role of Cornellio’s trainer. Phipps teaches a Europeanstyle boxing, reminiscent of the method taught by boxing coach Freddie Roach to champions Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao.
At Straight 2-3 Boxing, it’s not just punch-punch, jab-jab. The most important lesson Phipps teaches is discipline, and safety.
“At the end of the day, they’re all of my kids, and it’s my responsibility to keep all of them safe,” he said. “I refuse to let a boxer remain in the ring if he’s not listening to me. Boxing is a humble sport, and it can hurt you if you’re not focused.”
Phipps doesn’t just train current and future champions. He works with young people who will never see the boxing ring in competition. Rather, they come to the club with life challenges, and through lessons, he sees them improve their confidence.
Nine-year-old Makayla Bishop struggles with epileptic symptoms and ADHD. Since she began
classes at Straight 2-3 Boxing Club two years ago, her mother, Melissa, said she has seen a great improvement in her daughter’s ability to concentrate.
“It’s been a great activity for her, to learn some selfdefense measures,” Melissa said. “When Dwayne is training Makayla, you can actually see her focus, so it enables her to concentrate on one thing, and that plays an important role when she’s in school, when she has to show the same focus.” The Straight 2-3 Boxing Club is at 501 Old Baltimore Pike, Oxford. For more information, make a contribution or visit the club, contact Dwayne Phipps at 610-470-9565. To contact Staff Writer Richard L. Gaw, email rgaw@chestercounty.com.
Straight 2-3 Boxing Club student Ariella Heredia.
Photos by Richard L. Gaw
Straight 2-3 Boxing Club owner Dwayne Phipps gives lessons to Pennsylvania Gold Gloves champion Bahieem Billups.
Cornellio ‘Chada’ Phipps.
Through April 28
‘Fiddler on the Roof’ auditions
Avon Grove Community Theater will present the musical “Fiddler on the Roof” in July, and auditions are scheduled on April 27 and 28 at the Kemblesville United Methodist Church (1772 New London Rd., Kemblesville). Those interested in auditioning should visit www.actheater. org and pick a time to audition. The show will be staged July 21, 22, 27 and 29 at 7 p.m., and July 23 and 30 at 2 p.m. No prior experience is required to audition.
April 29
Plant sale
The Annual Kennett Beautification Plant Sale will be held April 29 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Along the Genesis Walkway in Kennett Square. Annuals, perennials, herbs, native plants, bedding plants, vegetables, grasses, dahlias, and the ever popular preowned plants grown and dug by garden club members and members of the community
will be available. All proceeds go toward the purchase of flowers for the containers in the center of town, annuals for the Genesis Walkway, and the Kennett Square Police Station. Call 610-444-0792 for more information.
April 29
Literary Open Mic
The Kennett Library (216 E. State St., Kennett Square) hosts a Literary Open Mic event on April 29 at 1 p.m. Celebrate National Poetry Month by sharing a poem, short story, or excerpt of your work, or read one of your favorites from an author you admire. For more information or to register, contact Alex Caliva at acaliva@ccls.org.
April 29
Pennock’s Bridge Community Day
The Technical College High School (TCHS) Pennock’s Bridge Community Day & 5K Tech Run will take place on April 29. Run cross-country on the TCHS Pennock’s Bridge campus and attend the annual TCHS Pennock’s
Through April 29
Helena van Emmerik-Finn
The Station Gallery (3922 Kennett Pike, Greenville, Del.) presents a solo show of new pastels by Helena van EmmerikFinn through April 29. Call 302-654-8638 or visit www.stationgallery.net.
Through April 30
Rhoda Kahler and John Baker
Mala Galleria (206 E.
State St., Kennett Square) is featuring “Full Circle,” with works by John Baker and Rhoda Kahler. Kahler is a ceramic artist living in West Chester, known for her tile work that has been featured in magazines, newspapers and on television. Baker is known for his sculpted paper vessels which echo ancient design motifs. Visit www.malagalleria. com.
Bridge Community Day. At this year’s event, there will be children’s activities, raffle baskets, face painting, classic cars, nail art, crafts, video games and more. The campus will also play host to the Jennersville YMCA’s Healthy Kids Day during the event.
April 29
Youth Orchestra concert
The Chester County Youth Orchestra will present its annual spring concert on April 29 at 7:30 p.m. at the Westminster Presbyterian Church (10 W. Pleasant Grove Rd., West Chester). Tickets will be available at the door and will benefit the West Chester Food Cupboard. The program includes “Marche Militaire” by Saint-Saens, “St. Paul’s Suite” for strings by Holst, “Les Preludes” by Liszt and “Pavane” composed by Faure. CCYO is seeking musically talented students from the ages of 11 to 18. Spring audition dates for all instruments will be posted on the orchestra’s website. Auditions for instrumentation still needed will also be held in the fall. Visit www.ccyo.org.
April 30
Organ recital
The Oxford Redman’s Pavilion (10 Brick Rd., Oxford) will be the site of an organ recital by Robert Trimble on April 30 at 7 p.m. Trimble is the grand organist for the Masonic Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania, as well as grand organist for the Grand Chapter of Pennsylvania, Order of the Eastern Star. Light refreshments will be served. Admission is free, but a free-will offering will be collected.
May 4
Author workshops
The Kennett Library (216 E. State St., Kennett Square) hosts a free Author Workshop on May 4 at 6 p.m. with local author Ed Charlton. The series continues Thursdays in May at 6 p.m. Topics on May 4 include “Good stories, well told,” “Why you need an editor,” “Are other authors competitors or collaborators?” and “The final manuscript: Writing vs. rewriting.” For more information or to register, contact Alex Caliva at acaliva@ccls.org.
May 6
ACE meeting
“What’s Trending With Our Youth?” will be presented by Oxford Police Officer Coverly on May 6 at 9:30 a.m. for ACE (Advocating, Collaborating, Educating) Anti-Human Trafficking Alliance of Oxford. The presentation will discuss drug and alcohol awareness, internet safety/bullying, selfharm, and fighting. This is an adult presentation and you must be 18 years old to attend. Refreshments will be served at 9 a.m. at the Oxford Senior Center (12
E. Locust St., Oxford). Call 610-932-0337 for more information.
May 7
Record Collectors show
The Keystone Record Collectors Music Expo will be held at the Continental Inn (2285 Lincoln Highway east, Route 30, Lancaster) on May 7 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Dealers and collectors will be selling music memorabilia, CDs and records from all eras. Admission and parking are free. Call 610-932-7852 or visit www.recordcollectors. org.
May 12
Broadway music concert Vocalist/instrumentalist
Charlie Zahm will perform an evening of Broadway music on May 12 at the Oxford Meetinghouse (260 S. Third St., Oxford). Tickets are $15, and will be available at the door (children 12 and younger free). Refreshments will be sold. Doors will open at 7 p.m., and the concert will start at 7:30 p.m. For more information, call 610-869-8076 or email friendsfolkclub@aol.com.
May 13 Sky Tour
tickets are on sale now.
Members of the Chester County Astronomical Society will guide visitors of all ages through the night sky on May 13 at 8 p.m. in Anson B. Nixon Park. Bring a small flashlight and meet at the Tino Leto Athletic Fields on North Walnut Street, near the main Nixon Park entrance. Several telescopes will be set up for viewing, and the night sky will be pointed out using a green laser light. Members of the Chester County Astronomical Society are presenting the program. For more information, email observing@ccas.us or call 484-888-1831.
June 3
Jen Chapin in concert
The Friends Folk Club will host a return performance by singer Jen Chapin on June 3 at 7:30 p.m. at the Oxford Meetinghouse (260 S. Third St., Oxford). She will be joined by Stephan Crump (bass) and Jamie Fox (guitar). Tickets are $15, and will be available at the door (children 12 and younger are free). Refreshments will be sold. Doors open at 7 p.m. For more information, call 610-869-8076 or email friendsfolkclub@aol.com.
The Jen Chapin Trio returns to Oxford on June 3, and
Nature takes center stage for ‘Living Art’ in Oxford
By John Chambless Staff Writer
“Living Art,” which opened last weekend at the Oxford Arts Alliance, brings nature indoors, with grasses and vines in the display windows, wood slabs and ivy on the display pedestals inside, and bird songs playing in the gallery.
Lining the walls are pastel-hued photographs by Kathleen Magner-Rios, focusing on flowers and insects from her garden, printed to give them the appearance of hand-tinted images. They convey the soft textures of petals and butterfly wings in strongly composed closeups that focus all the attention on the interplay of insect and flower.
Paired with the photos are
remarkable, full-sized shoes made of intricately crafted natural materials by Lenny Wilson. Leaves, seed pods, feathers, pine cones and tiny corn cobs are all used
in these fanciful creations, which look like fairy shoes – or at least the kind of footwear you’d expect a fairy to have.
Delicate but still sturdy looking, they meld natural materials in ways you’ve never seen before. Most spectacular are the sedge slippers, with their tendrils stretching out in front and back by eight inches or so, but you’ll be consistently intrigued by how Wilson re-imagines the materials
to craft sculptural objects that are firmly rooted in the natural world.
At the back of the gallery is a dynamic metal sculpture by Rob Sigafoos that seems to be caught in mid-transition, its tendrils fraying but anchored by its solid, trunk-like base. It’s displayed against a backdrop of “Caged Bird,” a poem by Maya Angelou, tying together the theme, the soundtrack and the materials in this immersive, gentle, memorable exhibition.
“Living Art” continues through May 12 at the Oxford Arts Alliance (38 S. Third St., Oxford). Gallery hours are: Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., with extended hours on the first and third Fridays until 8 p.m. Visit www.oxfordart.org for more information.
To contact Staff Writer John Chambless, email jchambless@chestercounty. com.
A pair of ice skates made from natural materials by Lenny Wilson.
Photo by John Chambless The large metal sculpture by Kennett Square sculptor Rob Sigafoos.
‘Day Slippers’ by Lenny Wilson.
‘Sedge Slippers’ by Lenny Wilson. The photos have
1900s.
‘Ginkgo Shoes’ by Lenny Wilson.
One of the images by Kathleen Magner-Rios, captured in her garden.
Pennsylvania. Management's Responsibility for the Summary Financial Statement Management is responsible for the summary financial statement in conformity with the accounting practices prescribed or permitted by the DCED. Auditor's Responsibility Our responsibility is to express an opinion about whether the summary financial statement is consistent, in all material aspects, with the audited annual audit and financial report based on our procedures, which were conducted in accordance with the auditing standards generally accepted in the United States of America. The procedures consisted principally of comparing the summary financial statement with the related information in the audited annual audit and financial report from which the summary financial statement has been derived, and evaluating
whether the summary financial statement is prepared in accordance with the basis described in the second paragraph of this report.
Opinion In our opinion, the financial statement of London Grove Township, West Grove, Pennsylvania as of and for the year ended December 31, 2016 referred to above is consistent, in all material respects , with the audited annual audit and financial report from which it was derived, in accordance with the basis described in the second paragraph of this report.
Barbacane, Thornton & Company LLP, Certified Public Accountants LONDON GROVE TOWNSHIP
Chester County, Pennsylvania
Summary Financial Statement
For the Year Ended December 31, 2016
This publication is published in accordance with Section 904 of the Township Code. A complete copy of the audit report for the year ended December 31, 2016, is on file and available for inspection at the Township office.
$8,106,998
Total Assets:
Total Liabilities: $231,235
Total Fund Equity: $7,875,763
Total Revenues and Other Financing Sources: $4,309,128
Total Expenditures and Other Financing Uses: $4,580,365
Change In Fund Equity: $(271,237)
4p-26-1t
ESTATE NOTICE
Estate of Frances Smedley Ennis, also known as Frances S. Ennis, late of Oxford Borough, Chester County, Deceased. Letters Testamentary on the estate of the above named Frances Smedley Ennis having been granted to the undersigned, all persons having claims or demands against the estate of the said decedent are requested to make known the same and all persons indebted to the said decedent to make payment without delay to: Gail Tefft, Co- Executrix, Elizabeth E. Ward, CoExecutrix, C/O Attorney: Winifred Moran Sebastian, Esquire, 208 Locust Street, P.O. Box
381,
4p-19-3t London Grove Township Employment Opportunities
Building Official Position London Grove Township is accepting applications to fill a full-time Building Official Position. The Position requires the ability to perform a variety of duties including plan review, inspections, compiling reports, plan review, public interaction, and other duties as assigned by the Township Manager. Applicant must be able to ascend and descend steps and or ladders of various heights, walking over rough surfaces, crouching and bending. Individual must be available to work a 40 hour work week, during normal township hours and be available for occasional on-call work 24/7. Applicant must have clean criminal and driving records. Applicant must have thorough knowledge and understanding of building codes and standards, inspection practices and procedures, construction practices and municipal zoning. London Grove Township is an equal opportunity employer. Submit applications to London Grove Township Attn: Township Manager, 372 Rose Hill Road, Suite 100, West Grove, Pa 19390. Complete job description along with application is available at https://www.londongrove.org Applications will be accepted until May 12, 2017 at 4:30pm. Fire Marshal Position London Grove Township is accepting applications to fill a full-time Fire Marshal Position. The Position requires the ability to perform a variety of duties including inspections, compiling reports, plan review, public interaction, and other duties as assigned by the Township Manager. Applicant must be able to ascend and descend steps and or ladders of various heights, walking over rough surfaces, crouching and bending. Individual must be available to work a 40 hour work week, during normal township hours and be available for occasional on-call work 24/7. Applicant must have clean criminal and driving records. Applicant must have thorough knowledge and understanding of
Building & Fire Codes and standards, inspection practices and procedures and construction practices. London Grove Township is an equal opportunity employer. Submit applications to London Grove Township Attn: Township Manager, 372 Rose Hill Road, Suite 100, West Grove, Pa 19390. Complete job description along with application is available at https://www.londongrove. org Applications will be accepted until May 12, 2017 at 4:30pm. 4p-26-1t
ESTATE NOTICE
ESTATE OF VERNA L. ENGLAND, DECEASED. Late of the Township of London Grove, Chester County, PA LETTERS TESTAMENTARY on the above Estate have been granted to the undersigned, who request all persons having claims or demands against the estate of the decedent to make known the same and all persons indebted to the decedent to make payment without delay to LAURA A. FAZIO and DIANA STANTON, EXECUTRICES, c/o Kristen R. Matthews, Esq., 17 W. Miner St., West Chester, PA 19382, Or to their Attorney: KRISTEN R. MATTHEWS MacELREE HARVEY, LTD. 17 W. Miner St., West Chester, PA 19382 4p-12-3t
ESTATE NOTICE
Estate of Frances Smedley Ennis, also known as Frances S. Ennis, late of Oxford Borough, Chester County, Deceased. Letters Testamentary on the estate of the above named Frances Smedley Ennis having been granted to the undersigned, all persons having claims or demands against the estate of
Chester County Justice Center, Office of the Sheriff, 201 West Market Street, Suite 1201, West Chester, Pennsylvania, a Schedule of Distribution on Monday, June 19th, 2017. Distribution will be
made in accordance with the Schedule unless exceptions are filed hereto within ten (10) days thereafter.
and distances: (1) north 35 degrees 20 minutes 00 seconds east
SALE NO. 17-5-332 Writ of Execution No. 2016-02525 DEBT $184,759.56
ALL THAT CERTAIN parcel of ground, situate in the Township of Sadsbury, County of Chester, Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, being shown and described on a ‘Foundation As-Built Plan” for Sadsbury Associates, Building Unit “U”, drawing number 2002219u111, dated September 7, 2003, prepared by Wilkinson Associates, Surveying/ Engineering, as follows to wit:
BEING the same premises which Robert M. Frey and Cassandra A. Bartolomeo, by Deed dated 05/11/2012 and recorded 05/14/2012 in the Office of the Recorder of Deeds in and for Chester County in Deed Book 8426, Page 535, granted and conveyed unto Andrea T. Defelice.
BEING known as: 310 Fox Trail, Parkesburg, PA 19365
PARCEL No.: 37-4-40.11D
IMPROVEMENTS: residential property.
PLAINTIFF: Pennymac Loan Services, LLC VS
DEFENDANT: ANDREA T. DEFELICE
SALE ADDRESS: 310 Fox Trail, Parkesburg, PA 19365
PLAINTIFF ATTORNEY: POWERS, KIRN & ASSOCIATES, LLC, 215942-2090
BEING
BEING
N.B. Ten percent (10%) of the purchase money must be paid at the time and place of sale. 10% payment must be paid in cash, certified check or money order made payable to the purchaser or Sheriff of Chester Co. The final payment must be made payable to Sheriff of Chester Co. & is due twenty-one (21) days from the date of sale by 2PM. CAROLYN B. WELSH, SHERIFF 4p-26-3t Sheriff Sale of Real Estate
By virtue of the within mentioned writ directed to Carolyn B. Welsh, Sheriff, will be sold at public sale, in the Chester County Justice Center, 201 West Market Street, West Chester, Pennsylvania, announced on Thursday, May 18th, 2017 at 11AM prevailing time, the herein-described real estate. Notice is given to all parties in interest and claimants that the Sheriff will file in her office located in the Chester County Justice Center, Office of the Sheriff, 201 West Market Street, Suite 1201, West Chester, Pennsylvania, a Schedule of Distribution on Monday, June 19th, 2017. Distribution will be made in accordance with the Schedule unless exceptions are filed hereto within ten (10) days thereafter.
SALE NO. 17-5-354 Writ of Execution No. 2015-06203 DEBT $121,364.48
ALL THAT CERTAIN lot or piece of ground with the buildings and improvements thereon erected situate in the Township of West Nottingham, County of Chester, Commonwealth of Pennsylvania bounded and described according to a Final Plan of Property of W. Ronald Ried, made by Concord Land Planners & Surveyors of Oxford, Pa., dated 9/12/1988, as follows to wit: BEGINNING at the point on the title line in the bed of Pa Route #272 at the southwesterly corner of land at Owen W. Hastings; thence along the said title line north 50 degrees 28 minutes 00 seconds west 50.13 feet to a point a corner of Parcel “A”; thence along Parcel “A” the three following courses
T. REDSICKER, DECEASED AND UNKNOWN HEIRS, SUCCESSORS, ASSIGNS AND ALL PERSONS, FIRMS OR ASSOCIATIONS CLAIMING RIGHT, TITLE OR INTEREST FROM OR UNDER ALAN T. REDSICKER, DECEASED
SALE ADDRESS: 482 West Christine Road, Nottingham, PA 19362
PLAINTIFF ATTORNEY: MARTHA E. VON ROSENSTIEL, ESQ., 610328-2887
N.B. Ten percent (10%) of the purchase money must be paid at the time and place of sale. 10% payment must be paid in cash, certified check or money order made payable to the purchaser or Sheriff of Chester Co. The final payment must be made payable to Sheriff of Chester Co. & is due twenty-one (21) days from the date of sale by 2PM. CAROLYN B. WELSH, SHERIFF 4p-26-3t Sheriff Sale of Real Estate By virtue of the within mentioned writ directed to Carolyn B. Welsh, Sheriff, will be sold at public sale, in the Chester County Justice Center, 201 West Market Street, West Chester, Pennsylvania, announced on Thursday, May 18th, 2017 at 11AM prevailing time, the herein-described real estate. Notice is given to all parties in interest and claimants that the Sheriff will file in her office located in the Chester County Justice Center, Office of the Sheriff, 201 West Market Street, Suite 1201, West Chester, Pennsylvania, a Schedule of Distribution on Monday, June 19th, 2017. Distribution will be made in accordance with the Schedule unless exceptions are filed hereto within ten (10) days thereafter.
SALE NO. 17-5-348 Writ of Execution No. 2015-11315 DEBT $322,154.61
BEING
BEING the same premises which Alan T. Redsicker and Karen B. Elder a/k/a Karen B. Redsicker, husband and wife, granted and conveyed unto Alan T. Redsicker by Deed dated May 8, 2003 and recorded May 19, 2003 in Chester County Record Book 5701, Page 1805 for the consideration of $1.00.
PLAINTIFF: PROF-2013-M4 Legal Title Trust II, by U.S. Bank National Association, as Legal Title Trustee VS DEFENDANT: RICHARD REDSICKER, IN HIS CAPACITY AS HEIR OF ALAN
PROPERTY situate in the Sadsbury Township, Chester County, Pennsylvania
BLR# 37-4-26
IMPROVEMENTS thereon: residential dwelling
PLAINTIFF: Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. VS DEFENDANT: DEBORAH L. McCLASKEY a/k/a DEBBIE McCLASKEY a/k/a
DEBORAH McCLASKEY and LEWIS McCLASKEY, SR. a/k/a LEWIS E. McCLASKEY, SR.
SALE ADDRESS: 63 Octorara Road, Parkesburg, PA 19365-9175
PLAINTIFF ATTORNEY: PHELAN HALLINAN DIAMOND & JONES, LLP, 215-563-7000
N.B. Ten percent (10%) of the purchase money must be paid at the time and place of sale. 10% payment must be paid in cash, certified check or money order made payable to the purchaser or Sheriff of Chester Co. The final payment must be made payable to Sheriff of Chester Co. & is due twenty-one (21) days from the date of sale by 2PM. CAROLYN B. WELSH, SHERIFF 4p-26-3t
Sheriff Sale of Real Estate By virtue of the within mentioned writ directed to Carolyn B. Welsh, Sheriff, will be sold at public sale, in the Chester County Justice Center, 201 West Market Street, West Chester, Pennsylvania, announced on Thursday, May 18th, 2017 at 11AM prevailing time, the herein-described real estate. Notice is given to all parties in interest and claimants that the Sheriff will file in her office located in the Chester County Justice Center, Office of the Sheriff, 201 West Market Street, Suite 1201, West Chester, Pennsylvania, a Schedule of Distribution on Monday, June 19th, 2017. Distribution will be made in accordance with the Schedule unless exceptions are filed hereto within ten (10) days thereafter.
SALE NO. 17-5-340 Writ of Execution No. 2016-00373 DEBT $18,863.77
ALL THAT CERTAIN lot or piece of ground situate in Penn Township, Chester County, Pennsylvania, bounded and described according to a Final Plan of “3 Lot Subdivision” drawn for Emiline B. Gray, by N. M. Lake, Inc., Engineers-Surveyors, dated 9/17/87, and revised 1/6/86, said Plan recorded in Chester County as Plan No. 6173, as follows, to wit:
BEGINNING at a P.K. Nail on the title line in the bed of Ewing Road (LR 15031) (133 feet wide), said point being a corner of lands now or late of Earl M. Cole; thence extending from said point of beginning along said lands, south 17 degrees 32 minutes 42 seconds west and crossing the southwesterly side of Ewing Road, 221.58 feet to a point, a corner of Lot No. 2 on
