Apparent double homicide and suicide in East Marlborough Township
The Chester County District Attorney’s Office and the East Marlborough Township Police Department announced that three people are dead after an apparent double homicide and suicide on April 25. Two adults and a child were found dead at the scene at a home on Federal Walk in Kennett Square. East Marlborough
Township Police responded to a well-being check at a residence on Federal Walk in Kennett Square. When they arrived, police found a 55-year-old man, a 50-yearold woman, and their 12-year-old child dead of apparent gunshot wounds.
Multiple cartridge casings were found at the scene. A semi-automatic handgun was observed on the floor
near the male. Detectives learned that there was a history of domestic violence. Continued on Page 4A
Photo by Richard L. Gaw
This home on Federal Walk in Kennett Square was the scene of a double homicide and suicide on April 25 that took the lives of a 55-year-old man, a 50-year-old woman and their 12-year-old child.
Former New Garden supervisor charged with child sexual abuse
Warren Reynolds’ offenses include multiple counts of aggravated indecent assault and endangering the welfare of a child
By Richard L. Gaw Staff Writer
Please be advised that the following story contains sensitive wording regarding sexual abuse.
The Chester County District Attorney’s Office announced on April 21 that they had arrested former New Garden Township Supervisor and Avondale resident Warren Reynolds for the sexual abuse of a
female child over a five-year period that began in 1999, when the child was between eight and 13 years old.
Reynolds, 60, is being charged with multiple counts of aggravated indecent assault of a child, indecent
Lawrence, Comitta announce $2 million for Oxford theater project
A decades-long dream to bring a performing arts space to downtown Oxford is one step closer to reality.
State Rep. John Lawrence (R-Chester) and State Sen. Carolyn Comitta (D-Chester) announced this week that $2 million in state funding was awarded to Oxford Mainstreet Inc. for the reconstruction of the historic Oxford Theater on Third Street in the heart of the borough.
“This is an exciting day for Oxford,” said Lawrence, a longtime supporter of the project. “Today’s news is the next step in the continued revitalization of the downtown core, and a recognition of the hard work that so many have been a part of over the last few
assault, endangering the welfare of a child, and other charges. He is being held at Chester County Prison on $2 million bail set by Magisterial District Judge Matthew Seavey. The allegations state that in September 2020, Chester County Detectives interviewed a victim who detailed being sexually abused by Reynolds when he was between 38 and 43 years old. The abuse occurred several years.”
Originally constructed in 1922, the Oxford Theater was one of three movie theaters in Oxford over the years. After closing in 1956, the facility was partially converted into retail space. Much of the old theater infrastructure remains behind the retail area.
“The performing arts can be a powerful catalyst for recreation, education and economic revitalization in our communities. I’m proud to support this project and excited to see the historic theater returned to its former glory,” said Comitta.
“As we emerge from the pandemic, places for neighbors and visitors to come together to watch a film, enjoy a concert or take in a
lecture will be more important than ever. The theater will be a welcome addition to Oxford, and I look forward to its completion and opening.”
Oxford Mainstreet will lead efforts to completely renovate the old theater building into a 12,000square-foot multipurpose facility. Plans include a state-of-the-art auditorium for films and live performances. Classrooms and studio spaces will be available for rehearsals, classes and community use. Work has already begun on The Shoebox, a smaller, secondary theater within a theater that will open shortly. Plans also include a small café to cater to theatergoers and other patrons.
Legendary coach helps special children
By Gene Pisasale Contributing Writer
On April 24, a very special event brought together a man renowned in professional football and people whose passion is to help children with disabilities. The Barn at Spring Brook Farm in West Chester held the spring fundraiser wine tasting with legendary Eagles Coach Dick Vermeil. Well known to many in the Philadelphia area, Vermeil was a National Football League head coach for 15 seasons, including stints with the Philadelphia Eagles, the St. Louis Rams and the Kansas City Chiefs. He guided the Eagles to Super Bowl XV in 1981 and later successfully steered the St. Louis Rams to their first Super Bowl victory in Super Bowl XXXIV in 2000. Vermeil has the rare
“On behalf of the board of directors of Oxford Mainstreet, and the vision we share with the borough and the great spirit and culture of Oxford, we are most appreciative of this opportunity to use this grant and work hard to bring this project to reality.” said Ed Herr, chairman of Oxford Mainstreet. “What a blessing this will be for our beautiful town.”
This is the latest in a series of grants from federal, state, county and private sources supporting the continued revitalization of the
Photo by Phyllis Recca
Coach Dick Vermeil (middle) is pictured with the Barn at Spring Brook Farm Executive Director Nan Latona (left) and Board President Sharon Cichocki (right).
Kennett Township purchases additional 107 acres for conservation, trails
Residents who live near one easement argue that proposed trail will infringe on their privacy and lead to safety issues
By Richard L. Gaw Staff Writer
During separate public hearings held on April 20, the Kennett Township Board of Supervisors voted to authorize the execution of two conservation and trail easements in the township that will tack on an additional 107 acres of open space in the township.
Both parcels were brokered between the property owners and The Land Conservancy for Southern Chester County (TLC) – a local conservation agency that will merge with The Brandywine Red Clay Alliance at the end of April.
The purchase of the first of two parcels was unanimously agreed to by the board, and without fanfare.
Located at 901 Sills Mill Road near Bayard Road in Kennett Square, the 7.1acre property, owned by the Montgomery family, was purchased by the township for $77,893 and an additional county grant from TLC totaling $57,401 that will be added to the cost and total $135,294 for the property.
As listed by township Solicitor David Sander during the hearing, the purchase of this property will conserve water, forest, woodland and the natural ecosystem found within the property. In her overview of the property, TLC Executive Director Abby Kessler described the property as historic and scenic, and said that the easement eliminates every other development right for the property while protecting more than seven acres of riparian buffer, woodland and stream corridor of a branch of the Red Clay Creek. The easement also includes a trail corridor.
Sexual abuse...
Continued from Page 1A
times a week between 1999 and 2003 when she was in Reynolds’ care at his home on Penn Green Road in Avondale, as well as on Gun Club Road in New Castle County and at a beach residence in Lewes, Del.
As detailed in the police criminal complaint filed on April 18, Reynolds allegedly exposed a female child to repeated acts of penetration, repeated acts of fondling of
Proposed trail on 100acre easement raises neighbors’ objections
The second hearing, however – one that finalized the purchase of a 100-acre conservation and trail easement agreement at 251 Old Kennett Pike in Kennett Square for a price of $1.7 million – became a 90-minute verbal slugfest between those who live near the property and township representatives.
The parcel – identified as the Miller property – represents the largest protected space in the township’s history, and one that will leave the property’s remaining 25 acres to the seller.
Kessler said the protected property includes 60 acres of active cornfields, 34 acres of high-protection area that includes freshwater wetland stream corridor, as well as significant woodlands. The agreement also calls for the eventual construction of a trail easement that will be built on the eastern side of the parcel.
During the public comment portion of the hearing, several homeowners in the vicinity of the easement argued before the board, saying that the location of the proposed trail would come dangerously close to their property lines. They asked repeatedly whether the proposed trail – which may not be constructed for at least another ten to 15 years, it was revealed at the meeting -- could be built farther away from their property lines.
The most vocal of those who opposed the location of the trail were Robert and Denise Waters of Starvegut Lane, whose six-acre prop-
various parts of the child’s body and repeated acts of kissing of the victim’s neck – which would sometimes leave hickeys on her arms and neck. At the time of these acts, Reynolds was in a caretaking role and had “a duty of care, protection and support of the victim,” the report said.
The report also said that the victim described the abuse occurring on an almost daily basis – at least three to five times a week.
“Warren Reynolds engaged
erty edge is separated by the proposed trail by about 50 feet. The Waters were supported in argument by Kennett Square attorney Neil Land, who said that his clients had not been given proper notice of the hearing. Further, he recommended that the Waters and their neighbors receive additional time to consult with experts and secure expert testimony that will assist the township board.
Land also said that perhaps the largest concern the Waters have is about their safety.
“This is a big problem, because this is the backyard where their kids and grandkids play, and they are going to have a situation now where there will be unregulated and unrestricted folks coming up and down their property line, and essentially looking into their backyard and into their home,” Land told the board. “If trails are designed to create scenic views of the township, I suggest that in this situation and in this section of the proposed trail, that is not happening here.
“My clients do not necessarily oppose a conservation easement on the Miller property,” he added. “What they do object to strenuously is the proposal to place this trail, pressed up against the entirety of their backyard, in a manner they believe is unsafe and unwanted.”
Kessler said that there have been multiple studies nationwide that prove that trails do not lead to an increase in crime.
“If anything, having a trail actually deters crime, because it leads to additional potential witnesses,” she said.
in a depraved and systemic course of conduct violating a young child he was responsible for protecting and keeping safe,” said Chester County District Attorney Deb Ryan. “We will do everything possible to get justice for this brave victim. It took years for her to find the courage to speak to law enforcement about the horrors she endured. I commend her bravery and hope she sees the defendant’s arrest as the first step towards justice.”
Reynolds’ April 21 arrest
‘That is unconscionable’
Speaking to the board, Robert Waters expressed his displeasure that the township had the right “to put a public trail in my backyard.”
“That is unconscionable,” he said. “It destroys the total value of our property. Not a lot of people know it, but the township’s open space program takes away all of the owners’ rights. If you have a trail next to you, you have zero rights. They are not giving you any due process, and that’s what we’re asking for here.”
Land proposed that the proposed easement be moved farther away from the Waters’ property line. He calculated that if the trail location was moved an additional 50 feet farther away from the Waters’ home, the Miller family would lose one-half an acre of their total 125 acres.
Kessler said that the location of a trail easement is decided by the owner of the property, through negotiations with TLC, who then brings the proposed transaction to the township, the county and the state for funding support.
“The problem of [moving the trail] in 50 to 100 feet is that you literally will run it through an active cornfield, which makes it very difficult to farm that property,” she said. “You have to take into account the private property owners’ wishes to be able to use their property the way they have been using it for decades.”
Following public comment, Supervisor Scudder Stevens and board Chairman Richard Leff voted to authorize the purchase of the Miller property, while
is not his first brush with the law stemming from sexual crimes. On June 12, 2013, following an investigation by Pennsylvania State Police, Reynolds was arrested for the possession of more than 500 images of child pornography. The collection included both video and still images depicting children as young as three engaged in sexual acts with adults and other children.
Reynolds, then 51, was charged with sexual abuse of children, possession of child pornography and one count of criminal use of a communication facility. He appeared before Seavey and was freed after posting 10 percent of a $1 million bail
Supervisor Geoffrey Gamble voted against the purchase.
“We are paying a lot of money for the easement and the ultimate trail, and I think we have to protect the residents who are affected by this,” said Gamble. “We have an obligation to balance the public right to this area – which I thoroughly support – as well as the concerns of people that involves the public welfare.”
Township Manager Eden Ratliff – who had walked the territory with Gamble earlier that day with those who live near the easement – said that the construction of the trail in the future will be done in consultation with them.
“The township in a very meaningful way has engaged these property owners and told them, ‘We want to build a greenway here. What are your thoughts? What are your interests? What are your needs?”” Ratliff said.
“I would say that we are being proactive with them to build screenings, save certain trees and meet residents where they are.
“We have a landscape
set by Seavey. The investigation began in the wake of an April 22 computer technician’s visit to the Reynolds home at 973 Penn Green Road in Avondale to service a computer in Reynolds’ office. During the repair, the technician found hundreds of child pornography images on the computer, and discovered that some of these images had been accessed the previous day.
architect on our trails consulting team who has worked with them to come with solutions, and [these residents] have been appreciative and we’re going to implement [those ideas] when it comes to construction.”
While there is no exact determination as to how far the trail would be from the neighboring properties at this early stage, “that would be up to the trail easement owner or co-holder, which is the township, if and when it ever gets in,” Leff said.
“It seems improbable that there is a going to be a great crowd of people causing disruption to anyone along the road,” Stevens said. “To the best of my knowledge, there is no history – certainly not in Kennett Township – of any kind of criminal behavior that occurs on these trails. This is going to be a safe and appropriate trail that will give people who want to experience the wild an opportunity to do so.”
To contact Staff Writer Richard L. Gaw, email rgaw@chestercounty.com.
If you suspect child sexual abuse, call CHILDLINE at 1-800-932-0313. Learn to recognize, react, and report child sexual abuse by taking a free virtual Stewards of Children workshop. Contact County Coordinator Katie Walters at kwalters@chesco.org or 610-344-6115 for more information.
To contact Staff Writer Richard L. Gaw, email rgaw@chestercounty.com.
On March 4, 2014, Reynolds pled guilty to five counts of possession of child pornography, and on Sept. 9, 2014, Reynolds appeared at the Court of Common Pleas in West Chester, where he agreed to a state prison term that extended to a maximum of four years. Reynolds’ preliminary hearing is set for April 29, and the prosecuting attorney will be Assistant District Attorney Christine Abatemarco.
Photo by Richard L. Gaw
Kennett Township homeowner Robert Waters shared his disagreement on April 20 regarding Kennett Township’s purchase of a 100-acre parcel that will include a conservation and trail easement. Joined by several of his neighbors, Waters, whose property backs up to the edge of the easement, argued that the proposed trail corridor would infringe upon his family’s privacy and lead to safety issues.
Editor’s Notebook
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Southern Chester County Chamber of Commerce hosts Inspirational Breakfast
The Southern Chester County Chamber of Commerce will hold its 7th annual Inspirational Breakfast on Tuesday, May 24, beginning at 7:30 a.m. at the Mendenhall Inn.
This springtime signature event of the Chamber features an inspiring theme with patriotic components. The keynote speaker, Brigadier General Maureen Weigl, will present a powerful presentation titled, “Together We Serve.” Weigl is Pennsylvania’s Deputy Adjutant General for Veterans Affairs. In this position, she supervises the administration of state veterans’ programs, Continued from Page 1A
reintegration and outreach, and veteran initiatives for nearly 800,000 veterans and their dependents. Weigl also oversees operation of the Commonwealth’s six veterans’ homes and ensures compliance with all federal, state and local laws and regulations related to nursing home care and acts as the agency liaison between federal, state and local government agencies and veterans’ organizations on all matters concerning veterans in Pennsylvania.
The event includes a coffee reception with Reception Sponsor Qnectus, followed by a formal sit-down breakfast and program with Presenting Sponsor Constellation Energy. Special guests include the American Legion Color Guard of Kennett Square Post 00491, led by John DiMatteo, who is a Corporal with the U.S. Marines and a local business owner and Chamber member. The National Anthem will be performed by Leon R. Spencer, Jr., the Chamber’s 2016 Outstanding Citizen of the Year, and “Taps” will be performed by Bill Anderson of Grieco Funeral Home & Crematory, Inc.
Healthy Kids Day is April 30
The YMCA of Greater Brandywine is hosting the annual Healthy Kids Day on Saturday, April 30 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at seven Chester County locations, including the YMCA in Kennett Square and Jennersville.
Events feature plenty of activities, crafts, games and vendors to encourage families to take a moment to help kids be kids and set them up for a summer of fun and success.
The event will also act as an open house event for community members interested in learning more about the programs and amenities of the YMCA and its various summer camps.
“At the Y, we believe in the potential of all children and each day we work to help kids find that potential within themselves,” said Denise Day, president and CEO of YMCA of Greater Brandywine. “Healthy Kids Day is a fun, free, community-wide event to kick off summer and remind us all how important it is for kids to stay active, physically and mentally, throughout the summer.”
At the Jennersville YMCA at 880 W Baltimore Pike, there will be crafts, face painting, a moon bounce, roaming actors, lawn games, on-site vendors and more.
At the Kennett Area YMCA at 101 Race Street in Kennett Square, there will be crafts, face painting, a moon bounce, pedal carts, archery tag, an obstacle course, on-site vendors and more.
2022 marks the 30th anniversary of Healthy Kids Day, the YMCA’s national initiative to improve health and well-being for kids and families.
Mushroom Festival awards community grants
The Mushroom Festival awarded nearly $63,000 in grants to 28 local non-profit and community organizations at their annual Grants Reception last week, the Mushroom Festival Board announced.
While the Mushroom Festival is a weekend event, the impact continues all year. Each year, the Mushroom Festival provides proceeds from the event to local charities and non-profit organizations.
Over the past 20 years, the Mushroom Festival has donated more than $1 million in funds to local organizations for things like books, playground equipment, food, transportation, healthcare services, and more.
“Kennett Square is the Mushroom Capital of the World, in large part due to the support of the community,” said Gale Ferranto of Buona Foods and the Festival’s Coordinator.
“This is a way for the mushroom farming community to say ‘thank you.’” Grants were awarded to the following community groups:
Adult Literacy Program at The Kennett Library
Kennett Square
ALS Association Greater Philadelphia Chapter Ambler
Kennett
Arts Holding Hands and Hearts, Inc (AHHAH) West Chester
Avondale Fire Company
Avondale
Bournelyf Special Camp West Chester Camp Dreamcatcher
Kennett Square Canine Partners for Life Cochranville
Chester County Council, Boy Scouts of America
Exton Domestic Violence Center of Chester County West Chester Family Promise of Southern Chester County Kennett Square
Kennett
Kennett
Kennett
Courtesy photo
The
Square Mushroom Festival grant award recipients.
Continued from Page 1A
distinction of being named “Coach of the Year” on four levels: high school, junior college, NCAA Division I and professional football. He retired in 2005 and now runs Vermeil Winery in Calistoga, California. His interest in wines is not a distant passion—Vermeil grew up in the Napa Valley area and knows the region well. He also owns a ranch near Coatesville.
The Spring Brook event allowed sponsors and their guests to meet Coach Vermeil, sample some of his wines, learn more about the The Barn at Spring Brook Farm programs and have some face time with a man who will be inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2022. When asked about his two careers -- football and winemaking -- Vermeil said that his favorite football memory was winning the Rose Bowl in 1976 and being congratulated by Ohio State
Homocide...
Continued from Page 1A
Chester County Detectives and East Marlborough Police are investigating the incident.
District Attorney Deb Ryan said, “This is an inconceivable tragedy for the victims’ family, their loved ones, and our community. We will use all our resources to determine why this heartbreaking
Coach Woody Hayes before the game was over. His favorite Vermeil wine is the 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon. Their 2018 Chardonnay and 2019 Red Blend and Cabernet Franc wines were offered for wine tasting.
The Barn at Spring Brook Farm is the realization of a long-held dream of founder Mary Beth Drobish, who for years wanted to establish an entity which would help special needs children in a unique, loving environment. According to their website, beginning in 2004, Drobish wanted to “combine her
and senseless incident happened. This is an ongoing investigation and we will update the public as soon as possible.”
East Marlborough Township Police Chief Robert Clarke said, “We are doing a thorough investigation into the events that led up to this horrible incident. While residents may be feeling uneasy in light of this event, I assure everyone that community safety is our number one priority.”
passion for farm animals with her love for children.”
The next year, Spring Brook was incorporated as a nonprofit 501(c) 3 organization. At the Farm, children with conditions including autism, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, epilepsy and other ailments have been interacting with and enjoying the company of a variety of domesticated, well-behaved animals, including miniature horses, bunnies and other kid-friendly pets.
Spring Brook Farm sits on 17 acres, bringing special needs children together with
Contact Chester County Detective Christine Bleiler at 610-344-6866 or Sgt. Kevin Urbany at 610-444-5075 if you have any information about this investigation. If you feel unsafe around someone you love, contact the Domestic Violence Center of Chester County’s 24/7 hotline at 888-711-6270 or 610-431-1430. Call 911 if you are in immediate danger.
animals and trained caregivers in a loving environment which is beneficial to all involved.
The Farm hosts a variety of programs and events throughout the year, including the Spring Fling, Summer Splash, Autumn Festival and the Holiday Pancake Palooza. Designed for children ages 6 to 12, Camp Geronimo is a day camp allowing a wheelchair accessible ride for children around the property, as well as providing soccer, arts and crafts and other fun pursuits, all monitored by staff trained to work with children of all abilities. Board president Sharon Cichocki said the camp is named after
Oxford theater...
Continued from Page 1A borough. Over the past several years, Oxford has received millions in funding to support infrastructure improvements including new water lines, sidewalks near the school complex, and the multimodal transit center
one of founder Mary Beth Drobish’s favorite horses.
On certain occasions, the children get to meet a very friendly two-legged dog named Deuce who, despite his disability, is an inspiration to all. He even has his own Facebook page.
Although not open to the general public, interested persons can contact the Farm by phone at 610793-1037 and via e-mail at thebarn@springbrook-farm. org. They are offering their Spring Fling on Saturday,
and parking deck near the post office.
May 7, which will be “… a fun-filled event full of animal activities, sheep shearing, games, crafts, hayrides and more.” They welcome support as well as volunteers and even have a “wish list” of needed items for the operations of the Farm. Donations can be made via the website. Spring Brook Farm is located at 360 Locust Grove Road in West Chester. For more information, visit their website at www.springbrook-farm.org.
“By embracing our history and leveraging our valued partnerships, we are thrilled to begin the next chapter of Oxford’s revitalization,” said Brian Dix, executive director of Oxford Mainstreet. “The Oxford Theater is positioned to once again serve as the community hub for film, arts and culture.”
“The theater will be great for our community,” said John McGlothlin, president of Oxford Mainstreet. “Both the economic impact, and the opportunity for great entertainment, is really exciting. It’s an amazing time to be in Oxford.”
Photo by Phyllis Recca
Vermeil wines
Courtesy Photo
The Barn at Spring Brook Farm.
Coach Dick Vermeil...
Letter to the Editor
A new home for inspiring human potential The Aftermath
On the evening of Monday, May 2 in the Avondale Borough, a brilliant new chapter will begin for one of the most influential organizations in the recent history of southern Chester County, when a new home for The Garage Community & Youth Center will officially open.
Since it was founded 20 years ago, The Garage has served thousands of middle school and high school students in Kennett Square and West Grove as an after-school and youth development center. Both locations have become an open door of inspiration, leadership, tutelage, mentoring and kindness, extended by The Garage’s staff and its many volunteers. The effects of these efforts are powerful and everlasting, and to give evidence of their impact, the leadership of several non-profit organizations throughout our region is dotted liberally with former Garage students.
Beginning more than a year ago, conversations started that saw the potential of The Garage’s West Grove center moving from its Rosehill Avenue location to a new and larger home at the former Avondale Fire House, which later served as the offices for a Servpro franchise. Christine Trumbell, the wife of the late David Hughes – the founder of Servpro and a long-time community advocate – began to imagine the old firehouse as a home for an even larger purpose. She told Garage Executive Director Kristin Proto that David saw it as an honor to be able to work in the historic building and that she wanted its future to be occupied by an agency or cause that would make the community better.
After The Garage purchased the building last September, it embarked on a months-long effort – led largely by its volunteers, its board of directors and the community itself – to transform the 11,000-squarefoot, two story facility. There is now an indoor recreational gymnasium, a performance stage with portable seating, creative areas, a small café, an expanded commercial kitchen and meal preparation area, quiet academic study spaces, WiFi and computer access for students, administrative offices, meeting areas and additional space that will be used to welcome local non-profit and legal aid organizations who partner with The Garage.
The new location on Pennsylvania Avenue in Avondale will not just serve as an expanded model of an existing operation, but become an incubator for ideas, growth and mentorship for generations of young people for decades to come.
We applaud those whose imagination made The Garage Community & Youth Center what it has become; we praise the work of Kristin Proto and her staff and Garage volunteers, as well as the coalition of partnerships who have joined hands with The Garage; and we wish those who grace its newest location to continue to believe in this organization’s unrelenting power to inspire human potential.
To learn more about The Garage Community & Youth Center and to make a contribution, visit www. garageyouthcenter.org.
By Marie-Louise Meyers
Shocked into insensibility, their stock and trade in democracy, the bread basket of European Nations turned into smoldering ashes.
Who will be sifting through
them for the remnants of the past coming into fruition again where embattled farmers were torn between donning a uniform or tending their fields, tie their cows far enough apart, so if one is
killed the others might live?
Who will explain to the innocent faces of the young uprooted from their homes to finally come back to this?
Who will replace the formidable embrace of bombs intersecting Lives stretched beyond
Guest Column
endurance and seek permission in the poisoned Earth to begin again before memory fades of acres and acres of flowing wheat fields till they’re sifting flour again?
Ditch ‘forever chemicals’, forever
By State Rep. Kristine Howard D-Chester
Since the 1940s, the use of a group of toxic manmade chemicals known as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, or PFAS, have been increasingly used in numerous consumer goods and industrial processes. From degreasing pots and pans to making pants stain-resistant, PFAS use has proliferated over the past eight decades. While these so-called forever chemicals may provide short-term convenience, they accumulate over time, both in the environment and in the human body. They
also have been linked to adverse health effects in humans, such as increased cholesterol levels, thyroid problems, fetal development issues and weakened immune systems. Further, research suggests these forever chemicals can lead to reproductive issues, liver issues, asthma and cancer. As food is often contaminated by PFAS through the unnecessary addition of these chemicals to the packaging, I introduced legislation last year to prohibit the sale, distribution and manufacturing of any food packaging containing PFAS in Pennsylvania. While eliminating these
forever chemicals from food packaging is a small step, it would be a significant one toward protecting ourselves and our environment. Thankfully, my legislation is not the only proposal out there.
Gov. Tom Wolf signed an executive order in 2018 establishing the PFAS Action Team and tasking them with managing environmental contamination and ensuring that our drinking water is safe. As an outgrowth of this effort, the PA Department of Environmental Protection has proposed a new rule that would set Maximum Contaminant Levels in drinking water for two
varieties of PFAS – perfluorooctane sulfonic acid and perfluorooctanoic acid – to protect Pennsylvanians from the myriad health issues these chemicals are known to cause.
The DEP’s proposed rule would set stricter limits than the United States Environmental Protection Agency and would position Pennsylvania as a national leader. Through this combination of legislation, gubernatorial action, and industrial regulation, we can make meaningful and muchneeded progress towards ditching forever chemicals forever.
Chester County achieves milestone in preserved open space
An Open Space Summit will take place on May 10
Chester County Commissioners Marian Moskowitz, Josh Maxwell and Michelle Kichline recently announced the achievement of a significant milestone for the county: More than 30 percent of Chester County has now been preserved as open space. According to the analysis of the Chester County Planning Commission’s Protected Open Space Tracking – or POST – system, as of December 31, 2021, Chester County has reached 147,000 acres of preserved land.
“We have been saying ‘nearly 30 percent’ for a number of years, and now Chester County can confidently proclaim that 30 percent – actually 30.2 percent – of our land is protected, preserved, and will never be developed,” said Chester County Commissioners’ Chair Marian Moskowitz.
“As the fastest growing county in Pennsylvania, it remains important to balance land preservation with land development, ensuring the growth takes place in and around our urban areas, so that we can continue to connect parcels of protected open space,” added Commissioner Moskowitz.
To commemorate and celebrate this 30 percent milestone, and to share information on the county’s focus for open space
preservation in the future, the Commissioners, along with staff from the county’s Planning Commission and Department of Parks + Preservation will host the 2022 Open Space Summit on Tuesday, May 10.
Chester County Commissioner Josh Maxwell noted, “One of Chester County’s greatest assets is its open space. From green rolling hills, to wooded acres and farm fields – there’s no doubt that preserving a portion of this land is important for the future of the county and its residents.
“And we are not stopping at 30 percent,” added Maxwell.
The 2022 Open Space Summit theme, Farms for the Future, will highlight Chester County’s preserved agricultural land and how it plays a huge role in Chester County’s economy, quality of life, and sense of place. Specifically, the Summit will call attention to Chester County’s farming industry as a whole and ways that farming can be responsive to pressing environmental challenges.
“Farmland is a key aspect of Chester County’s bucolic legacy,” said Chester County Commissioner Michelle Kichline. “Thanks to the tremendous partnerships that have been developed with staff from our county departments, members of our Ag Land Preservation Board, our farm owners, conservancies and municipalities, we are able to add thousands of acres of preserved farmland every year.
“In fact, of the 2,930 acres preserved last year, nearly half of it was as agricultural conservation easements, which is one reason why this year’s Open Space Summit recognizes the important connection with our farming community.”
Pennsylvania Secretary of Agriculture Russell Redding will provide the keynote address at the 2022 Open Space Summit, and other topics include regenerative agriculture and a summary of Chester County’s open space preservation efforts in 2021.
David Stauffer, the director of Chester County’s Department of Parks and Preservation said, “Chester County was the first in the region to formally set aside funds for a rigorous open space preservation program, and that program has grown to be appreciated, not just for the green fields, preserved farms and community parks, but also for the partnerships with municipalities, farmers and conservancies that have leveraged the County’s investment in protected land many-fold.
“And in addition, Chester County’s protected lands, parks and trails are proven to be true assets that generate economic value for the county,” added Stauffer.
The Chester County Open Space Summit will take place at Springton on Tuesday, May 10 at Springton Manor Farm in Glenmoore, from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Formal presentations will begin at 5 p.m., and tours of Springton Manor Farm and its agricultural operations will begin at 6 p.m.
In addition to the Summit,
the Chester County Planning Commission and Chester County Parks and Preservation are offering tours of preserved farms across the county on the first three Saturdays in May. These tours will showcase the variety of preserved farms and farm products in Chester County, and give residents a unique opportunity to visit agricultural lands and learn about the value of agricultural preservation. These tours will be open to the public, but registration will be on a first-come, first-served basis.
“Farming is such an important part of Chester County’s economy and our network of protected open space, and we’re thrilled to highlight the success of our agricultural preservation program this year,” commented Rachael Griffith, the Chester County Planning Commission’s new sustainability director. The 2022 Open Space Summit is open to all municipal officials, nonprofit organizations, land conservancies, members of the agriculture industry, county partners, and members of the public. If you are unable to attend the event in person, the Summit presentations will be livestreamed. To learn more and register for the 2022 Open Space Summit and Farm Tours, visit https://bit. ly/ccopenspacesummit.
Courtesy photo
Chester County will celebrate an important open space milestone at the May 10 Open Space Summit.
An interview with General Washington LIVING HISTORY
By Gene Pisasale Contributing Writer
No person is more responsible for the creation of our country than George Washington. Without his steadfast perseverance, the cause for independence would have been doomed. Despite numerous setbacks over the eight-year long Revolutionary War, Washington remained committed to what he called “the cause.” The concepts behind it were enshrined in the Declaration of Independence. It laid the foundation 11 years later for the U.S. Constitution, called by British Prime Minister William Gladstone “…the most wonderful work ever struck off… by the brain and purpose of man.”
Those founding documents have been recognized as among the most important in human history. Washington provided the driving force which brought them to life.
I am friends with “Living Biographer” Carl Closs of Kennett Square, who has studied Washington’s life in detail and portrayed him at venues around the nation for over 20 years, from Brandywine Battlefield and Valley Forge to Mount Rushmore. Closs not only looks like Washington, when dressed in blue Continental Army officer’s uniform, he is Washington. Below is an interview with the General regarding his views on the American Revolution, his achievements and America today.
Q: What did “the cause” mean to you?
A: It all came down to liberty. After the Declaration of Independence was written, I received a copy and insisted that it be read to the troops. I believed strongly in the phrase “life, liberty and the pursuit of
happiness…” For me, it was a cause worth fighting and dying for.
Q: You had no children of your own, but in a way, you helped ‘give birth’ to America. Do you think others of your era felt the same?
A: Most people at the time greatly appreciated my efforts, considering me the “savior” of the Revolution. That is how the term “Father of Our Country” came about.
Q: During the tough fight against the British, was there ever a time when you were close to giving up?
A: Yes—Valley Forge. Roughly 2,000 men died from disease during the winter of 1777- 1778. We were perilously close to failure. On December 23, 1777, I wrote to Henry Laurens, President of the Continental Congress: “…I am now convinced beyond
by Gene Pisasale
a doubt, that unless some great and capital change suddenly takes place… this Army must inevitably be reduced to one… of these three things: Starve—dissolve—or disperse…” We were outnumbered and outgunned, just trying to survive. Perhaps it helped that I was an optimist.
Q: Some of your compatriots believed America would not endure unless its citizens were morally strong and religious. Can you describe what you call “the sacred fire of liberty”?
A: That is a line from my First Inaugural Address. I once said “Labor to keep alive in your breast that little spark of celestial fire, called conscience.” Liberty is only possible by remaining true to that “sacred fire.” When we have a strong moral compass, we can accomplish great things.
Q: Of all the persons of your era, who did you feel closest to?
A: I was close to General Nathaniel Greene and respected his abilities and devotion. I was fond of the Marquis de Lafayette. He was like a son to me, the one I never had. My longtime friend, Surgeon General Dr. James Craik, who was with me at Mount Vernon on my last day. Alexander Hamilton and I shared the same vision for America—one of economic growth and expansion, which strengthened and united the republic. Yet one must be very careful in associating with others. “Friendship is a plant
of slow growth and must undergo and withstand the shocks of adversity before it is entitled to the appellation.”
Q: America has survived under the Constitution for over 230 years. Did you ever think it would last this long?
A: Yes. I knew it had the potential to last for a very long time. However, there are many challenges today. It is disappointing that so many citizens and politicians do not apply religious principles to their daily lives. Religion and morality are the essential pillars to a civil society.
Q: What qualities are necessary in a leader?
A: Prudence, fortitude, justice and humility. By justice, I mean doing unto others as you would have them do unto you. Important moral virtues are faith, hope and love, meaning charity towards others. Most people considered me quite civil, a very giving person. I always instructed my servants at Mount Vernon to welcome anyone who came to our door needing assistance and help them in any way we could.
Q: What characteristics of a successful government are most needed today?
A: We need to get back to our ‘founding principles.’ For those principles to be reflected in the government, they must come from the people, whose lives should be based on a strong set of morals. It starts with the family.
Q: What do you think your place in history will be?
A: As a General, for allowing liberty to survive- and a republic to come alive- by leading the Continental Army to victory. As President, helping people to feel they were part of one nation- not citizens of individual states. Unity is essential to success- in war and in government. We must remember that or we will fail.
Q: Do you have any recommendations for people today concerned about the future of our country?
A: Live by the concepts espoused in the Declaration of Independence. Parents need to teach those sacred principles to their children in the home, the breeding ground for the success of a nation. It will take a generation or more for those principles to be fully reflected again throughout our country. In some ways, we need to start over, from scratch. It took a long time for the Roman Empire to become decadent. It will take a long time to turn the country around, but it can be done.
General Washington on his favorite horse.
Courtesy photos
General Washington with reenactor Sandi Johnson at the historic Barns Brinton House circa 1714.
General Washington with children at Mount Rushmore.
Washington at one of the reconstructed huts used by the soldiers at Valley Forge.
General Washington at the Barns Brinton House, which is owned and operated by the Chadds Ford Historical Society.
Washington with Thomas Jefferson, Teddy Roosevelt and Abraham Lincoln at Mount Rushmore in 2012.
Washington at the Valley Forge Memorial Arch.
Tiffany Lloyd (Thompson) Volovich died at her home in Kennett Township on April 19, 2022 after battling inoperable pancreatic cancer for over 36 months. She was 78.
She will be remembered as a person guided by her deep faith and her commitment to family, friends and caring for others. Her gift was connecting with people in all walks of life. She loved being married to Jim, and being a mother, grandmother and mother-in-law. She was a professional social worker who loved to volunteer and always sought leadership roles in her volunteer activities.
She was born in Sewickley Hospital outside of Pittsburgh to John and Theresia (Gastner) Thompson. She was raised in the Pittsburgh suburb of Robinson Township and was a 1962 Montour High School graduate. An early adventure in her life was when her parents took her and her sister Judy out of school for one year to accompany them to
TIFFANY VOLOVICH
Cuba as the Cuban Revolution took place. Her father was consulting on a steel mill project.
In 1966, she graduated from West Virginia Wesleyan College with a bachelor of arts degree. In 1989, while raising a family and living and working in Trumbull, Conn., she realized her dream and received a masters degree in social work from Fordham University with graduation at Lincoln Center. She became a licensed social worker in the states of New York, Pennsylvania and Delaware and worked in social work for 40 years.
In 1967, Tiffany married James Volovich in Bridgeville, a Pittsburgh suburb, and three months later she became a military wife as Jim was drafted. Tiffany and Jim agreed he should go to Army Officer School. As Jim was assigned to Army bases, Tiffany lived and practiced social work in Columbus, Georgia and Colorado Springs.
Upon Jim’s return from Vietnam, Tiffany left her social work job in Pittsburgh and moved to Monterey, Calif., which was the location of Jim’s last assignment. Upon discharge, they moved to San Mateo and then Foster City. Their sons Marc and Paul were born in Northern California.
Jim’s job transfers took them to White Plains N.Y. and
finally in 1976 to Trumbull, Conn., where Tiffany was active in Christ the King Parish and the Trumbull, PTA. She also worked for Trumbull Head Start and Saint Vincent Hospital in the field of social work.
The family moved from Trumbull to Kennett Township as a result of another of Jim’s job transfers in 1989. She restarted her career practicing social work at Saint Francis
Hospital and Kentmere nursing home (both in Wilmington) and various Hospice agencies.
Tiffany loved to travel, read, write stories for her young grandchildren and play golf at the Kennett Golf Club. She always made time available to stay in touch with her “social work buddies,” cousins, Kennett Library volunteers and friends from past residences. But she never stopped practicing her gift of caring for others. Her notes of thank you, congratulations and sympathy captured the feelings of the recipient and were handwritten. During her battle with cancer she would often lend her ear, console, and give advice to friends. She was driven to help others.
Some of her favorite travel destinations were the Canadian Rockies, Monument Valley, Az., the western U.S. National Parks and all the major U.S. cities.
Internationally it was Hong Kong, Beijing, Shanghai, New Zealand, Australia, golfing in Ireland and many of the countries in Europe.
The best trip ever was in 2017 when she took the entire family to Hawaii for 10 days.
Tiffany is survived by her husband, Jim; her son Marc and his wife Paige and their twin daughters, Reece and Elle; her son Paul and his wife Scharmagne and their son William and daughter Madelaine; her sister, Judy Hughes of Ludowici, Georgia, and Judy’s three sons, Joseph, John and James Hughes. She is also survived by many cousins.
Tiffany enjoyed the blessings of this life, was grateful for what life gave her, and was enthusiastic about using the valuable resource of her time to bring joy and help to others.
FREDERICK L. WILLIAMS
Frederick L. Williams, a resident of Linden Hall in Kennett Square, passed away peacefully after a long illness at Christiana Hospital in Newark, Del. on April 16, 2022. He was 81.
Born in West Grove, he was a son of the late Paul T. Williams and the late Vivian L. (Edwards) Williams. Fred was a graduate of Oxford Area High School, Class of 1960. After graduation, Fred worked for many years for NVF company in Yorklyn, Del.
During his life he lived in Downingtown, Florida, and Oxford, and was a longtime resident of Chatham, Pa.
Fred is survived by his brothers, Paul Williams and Thomas Williams; several nieces and nephews, and his cats Arlo and Bree. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by a brother.
Services and interment will be held privately.
Contributions in his memory may be made to the SPCA of Chester County (bvspca.org/donate).
Arrangements are being handled by Matthew J. Grieco of Grieco Funeral Home & Crematory, Inc. (484-734-8100).
To view his online tribute, please visit www.griecofunerals.com.
Matthew J. Grieco, Supervisor, Funeral Director / Certified Celebrant
ALBERT K. WEAVER
member of the Fraternal Order of Police.
Albert Kyle Weaver, 74, passed away on April 16, 2022 at his home in Oxford while surrounded by his family.
He was the husband of Linda Kennedy Weaver, with whom he shared 54 years of marriage.
Born in Sylmar, Md., he was the son of the late Joseph Kyle and Sara Elizabeth Logan Weaver.
Albert graduated from Oxford Area High School Class of 1966. After graduation he farmed with his father for several years. He graduated from the Pennsylvania State Police Academy in Harrisburg and then was employed as a police officer for the Borough of Oxford for 29 years. He retired in 1998.
After retiring from the Police Department, Albert was employed with Shelton Pallet Co. in Oxford until he retired from that job in 2013.
He was a lifetime member of the Union Fire Company No. 1 in Oxford and the Oxford Gun Club. He was also a
He is survived by his wife; two sons, Jeff Weaver of Jasper, Ga. and Tim Weaver (Lesley) of Fort Worth, Tex.; one daughter, Cathy Reed (Allen) of North East, Md.; seven grandchildren, Kyle Weaver, Justin Weaver, Matthew Weaver, Madeline Weaver, Danielle Weaver, Caleb Reed and Brayden Reed; three brothers, Dean Weaver of Rising Sun, Md., Ronnie Weaver of Quarryville and Marty Weaver of Nottingham; two sisters, Lettie Ross of Newark, Del. and Gloria Lusby of Oxford.
He was preceded in death by a brother, Larry Weaver.
Funeral services were held on April 20 at the Edward L. Collins, Jr. Funeral Home, Inc. in Oxford.
Interment will be in Oxford Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be made to the Lighthouse Youth Center, P. O. Box 38, Oxford, Pa. 19363.
Funeral arrangements are being handled by the Edward L. Collins, Jr. Funeral Home, Inc. in Oxford.
Online condolences may be made at www.elcollinsfuneralhome.com.
DOROTHEA S. CHIDESTER
Dorothea S. Chidester died on April 15, 2022 at the age of 97.
She is survived her son, Jeffrey Chidester and daughter Jennifer Beard, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. She was predeceased by her son, G. Christopher Chidester and her husband, George F. Chidester with whom she shared 70 years of marriage.
Born in Pittsburgh, Pa., she was the daughter of the late Herman Snyder and Dorothea (Grimes) Snyder.
Dottie enjoyed her formative years in Williamsport, Md. and graduated from Williamsport High School and then from Frostburg College.
A dedicated wife, mother, and friend, she was a homemaker and so much more. Dottie worked in a veterinary office. She enjoyed many hobbies and interests, including raising AKC pedigree dogs, ponies, horses, and
livestock early in her life. Gardening (both vegetable and flowers), fruit trees, bee keeping, sewing, weaving, needlework, candle making quilting and cooking were among her interests and activities. She was a dedicated aide at Luther Towers, always looking for ways to enrich the lives of the residents. She was a member of the Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd. Dottie was born with boundless energy, curiosity with deep faith and the heart of a true servant of God. She provided exceptional care for others throughout her life. Dottie was well loved by many.
A memorial service was held at The Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd on April 25.
Burial will be private.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to Lutheran World Relief, P.O. Box 17061, Baltimore, Md. 21297-1061.
To view her one tribute and to share a memory with her family, please visit www.kuzoandfoulkfh.com.
Obituary submissions
The Chester County Press publishes obituaries free of charge for funeral homes with active advertising accounts only. Others with
a connection to southern Chester County are charged a modest fee. Obituaries appear on the Wednesday after they are received with a
Monday 5pm deadline. They are also posted on www. chestercounty.com. Photos should be sent as .jpeg attachments to the obituary
text. To submit an obituary to the Chester County Press or for a rate quote, email the information to editor@chestercounty.com.
Additional Obituaries on page 5B
MARY M. PARSONS
Mary M. Parsons, of Rehoboth Beach, Del. and formerly of Kennett Square, passed away on April 20, 2022 at her home. She was 88.
She was the wife of the late Russell E. Parsons, with whom she shared 57 loving years of marriage. Born on Dec. 31, 1933, in Newtown Square, she was the daughter of the late Joseph and Mary (Pinkerton) Bird.
Mary was a homemaker. In addition to caring for her own children and home, she provided care for many other children and homes through the years. In her later years she worked at Heart to Heart Bridal Salon in Delaware and Fabrications in Kennett Square.
Mary loved taking care of her family and spending time with family and friends. She enjoyed her time at the beach, playing cards, painting, knitting and sewing.
Mary was a graduate of Conestoga High School. She was a longtime member and deacon at the First Baptist Church, Kennett Square, more recently becoming a member at the Kennett Square Presbyterian Church. She was also a member of the Order of the Eastern Star, Cochranville Chapter and served as a Worthy Matron with the Kennett Chapter.
Mary is survived by her children, Deborah Reppert (Dave), Larry Parsons (Michele), Dionne McNeel (Michael), and Russell (known as Rusty); her grandchildren, Shannon, Amanda (Chris), Matthew, Laura (Adam), Paul (Taylor), and Jake; and her greatgrandchildren, Ivy, Aiden, Collin, Chase, Aubrey, Carter, Piper, Asher and Reese.
In addition to her husband and parents, Mary is preceded in death by her son Robert, granddaughter Cheryl, and brother Joseph Bird.
Friends will be received on Wednesday, April 27 from 6 to 8 p.m. and on Thursday, April 28, from 10 to 11 a.m. at the Kuzo Funeral Home, 250 W. State St., Kennett Square, where a service will begin at 11 a.m.
The interment will follow at Longwood Cemetery, Kennett Square.
Contributions may be made in the name of Mary Parsons to the Kennett Square Presbyterian Church, 211 S. Broad St., Kennett Square, Pa. 19348 or the American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 22478, Oklahoma City, Okla. 73123.
Please visit the online memorial at www.kuzoandfoulkfh.com.
New Garden hosts Brandywine Backyard BBQ
sales, on Thursday, May 19th , 2022 at 11AM. Notice is given to all parties in interest and claimants that the Sheriff will file with the Prothonotary and in the Sheriff’s Office, both located in the Chester County Justice Center, 201 W Market Street, West Chester, Pennsylvania, Schedules of Distribution on Monday, June 20 th , 2022. Distribution will be made in accordance with the Schedules unless exceptions are filed in the Sheriff’s Office within ten (10) days thereafter.
SALE NO. 22-5-157 Writ of Execution No. 2019-05846 DEBT $124,677.05
ALL THAT CERTAIN property situated in the Township of Londonderry in the County of Chester and Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, being described as Follows:
UPI: #46-3-16 being more fully described in a Deed Dated 04/09/1998 and recorded 04/17/1998, Among the land records of the county and state set forth above, in Deed Volume 4334 and Page 1356, Tax Map or Parcel id No: 46-03-0016.
Bid4Assets, by accessing URL www. bid4assets.com/chestercopasheriff-
Tax Parcel # 46-3-16
PLAINTIFF: U.S. Bank National Association, not in its individual capacity but solely in its capacity as Indenture Trustee of CIM Trust 2018-R4 VS DEFENDANT: John Preston Dehaven a/k/a John P. Dehaven and Lynn Karmilowicz a/k/a Lynn M. Dehaven
SALE ADDRESS: 201 Paxton Road, Cochranville, PA, 19330
PLAINTIFF ATTORNEY: STERN & EISENBERG, PC 215-572-8111
N.B. Ten percent (10%) of the purchase money must be paid at the time of the on-line sale. Payment must be made via Bid4Assets. The balance must be paid within twenty-one (21) days from the date of sale via Bid4Assets. FREDDA L. MADDOX, SHERIFF 4p-27-3t Sheriff Sale of Real Estate
By virtue of the within mentioned writs directed to Sheriff Fredda L. Maddox, the herein-described real estate will be sold at public on-line auction via Bid4Assets, by accessing URL www. bid4assets.com/chestercopasheriffsales, on Thursday, May 19th , 2022 at 11AM. Notice is given to all parties in interest and claimants that the Sheriff
will file with the Prothonotary and in the Sheriff’s Office, both located in the Chester County Justice Center, 201 W Market Street, West Chester, Pennsylvania, Schedules of Distribution on Monday, June 20 th , 2022. Distribution will be made in accordance with the Schedules unless exceptions are filed in the Sheriff’s Office within ten (10) days thereafter.
SALE NO. 22-5-160
Writ of Execution No. 2015-05187 DEBT $479,781.13
Property situate in NEW GARDEN TOWNSHIP
Tax Parcel No. 60-06-0091
IMPROVEMENTS thereon: a residential dwelling
PLAINTIFF: Bank of America, N.A.
VS DEFENDANT: Kathleen Morgan
SALE ADDRESS: 9 West Shore Court, Landenberg, PA 19350
PLAINTIFF ATTORNEY: KML LAW
GROUP, P.C. 215-627-1322
N.B. Ten percent (10%) of the purchase
money must be paid at the time of the on-line sale. Payment must be made via Bid4Assets. The balance must be paid within twenty-one (21) days from the date of sale via Bid4Assets. FREDDA L. MADDOX, SHERIFF 4p-27-3t
Sheriff Sale of Real Estate By virtue of the within mentioned writs directed to Sheriff Fredda L. Maddox, the herein-described real estate will be sold at public on-line auction via Bid4Assets, by accessing URL www. bid4assets.com/chestercopasheriffsales, on Thursday, May 19th , 2022 at 11AM. Notice is given to all parties in interest and claimants that the Sheriff will file with the Prothonotary and in the Sheriff’s Office, both located in the Chester County Justice Center, 201 W Market Street, West Chester, Pennsylvania, Schedules of Distribution on Monday, June 20 th , 2022. Distribution will be made in accordance with the Schedules unless exceptions are filed in
Katelyn Marsden of Braeloch Brewing served thirsty adults throughout the festival.
Photos by Richard L. Gaw
Under gorgeous blue skies and the tantalizing scent of barbecue, hundreds of friends and families celebrated the Fourth Annual Brandywine Backyard BBQ Festival, held April 24 at New Garden Township Park.
The Mohan family of Kennett Square. Hosted by The Chester County Council, Boy Scouts of America and New Garden Township, the event served as a fundraiser to support local scouting efforts in the Kennett Consolidated, Unionville-Chadds Ford, Avon Grove, Octorara, Oxford and Cecil County School Districts.
The wait was a long one at this barbecue station.
With their son in tow, Ryan and Caroline Griffith of Chatham enjoyed their time at the festival.
The festival also featured live music from two local bands.
The park was packed with happy faces.
Max of Gourmet Jerk Shack samples the incredible flavors of his smoker.
Michael Tauber and his son take a break from the children’s playground.
Harvest Ridge Winery was also on hand.
Oxford Borough Council zooms in on grants to moving the town forward
By Betsy Brewer Brantner Contributing Writer
Oxford Borough Council is zooming in on a variety of grants, improving the borough’s bottom line, meeting mandated requirements, improv ing the quality of life for its residents and keeping a keen focus on the environment.
Hiring Pauline GarciaAllen, an accomplished grant writer, as the new borough manager, was certainly a great way to focus on the growing list of needs in Oxford.
Council also decided this year to educate residents at their meetings on the inner-workings of borough governments. Those educational moments have increased the interest that local residents have to serve and work with the borough council on a variety of issues in the community.
At the last meeting, Council also agreed to create an Advisory Commission on Latino Affairs (ACOLA). The purpose of the group will be to bring information and speakers to future meetings to keep council informed on
how an ACOLA might benefit all borough residents.
Oxford Borough Council has an aggressive “to-do” list moving forward.
Oxford Borough is part of the Oxford Regional Planning Commission and is working with other municipal members to update the Oxford Regional Comprehensive Plan. As part of that, plans are in the work to promote trails for biking and hiking that can tie in with the greater Philadelphia area all the way down to Maryland.
The implementation of these trails will generate travel to the borough, and will increase business opportunities within the borough.
Council is also focused on stormwater management and the serious problems like flooding and poor water quality.
David Ross made a slide presentation to council on two potential projects that would be covered under a Chesapeake Bay Trust Green Streets, Green Town (G3) grant award that the Borough received. The purpose of the grant is to identify two green infrastructure projects for
implementation. The implemented projects will reduce the amount of stormwater pollution that is impairing local streams. The projects, their costs and benefits were presented. One project is a tree trench concept at the Oxford Police Station on N. 4th Street, while the other is the west Mt. Vernon Street traffic calming plan that would feature bio-retention bump-outs.
The slide presentation is available at the Oxford Borough Hall for review. Borough officials are seeking input from its residents about the projects.
Like all Pennsylvania municipalities, Oxford faces a mandate from the state DEP to develop and implement a comprehensive stormwater management program that includes pollution-prevention measures, treatment or removal techniques, monitoring and other appropriate measures to control stormwater discharged to storm drains and local waterways. Due to the developed nature of the Borough, there are space challenges and limitations in implementing best management practices (BMPs). The grant would cover the
Kennett Area Senior Center plans golf outing
The Kennett Area Senior Center will hold its 2nd annual “Partners on Course” golf outing on Monday, June 20 at Hartefeld National in Avondale. This is a unique opportunity to experience an awardwinning private course while you support a great cause. All proceeds from this outing will go toward the mission and programs of KASC, to promote
healthy aging, independence, and the well-being of older adults in our area.
The golf outing begins at 10 a.m. with registration and practice. A shotgun start takes place at 11 a.m.
There will be plenty of contests and prizes for participants.
Please consider sponsoring the outing, joining in for a round of golf, or simply joining for dinner. More information about sponsor-
ship opportunities and registration can be found at www.birdease.com/ KSC.
The Kennett Area Senior Center is a nonprofit organization serving older residents of southern Chester County. It provides daytime, evening, and weekend programs and services to help adults 50 and better live healthy, active, and independent lifestyles.
ALBA C. ROSELLI
Alba C. (Esposito) Roselli passed away peacefully on April 21, 2022 at Pocopson Home.
Born in Toughkenamon on June 1, 1931, she was the daughter of Antonio and Antoinette (Pettini) Esposito.
Alba loved to read, color, do puzzles, and just enjoy the fresh air. Her favorite thing was going on vacations with her family and rocking in her rocking chair. Her great grand-puppies were her pride and joy and they were certainly spoiled rotten by her. She was a die-hard Philadelphia Eagles fan and would often be caught yelling at the television during any sporting event.
Alba is survived by one sister, Vera (Esposito) Campopiano; one daughter, Denise Rogowski (Roselli) and her husband Stephen, of Coatesville; one daughterin-law, Michaele Roselli (wife of David) of Philadelphia; six grandchildren, Stephanie Rogowski, girlfriend of J.J. Stelma, of Morrisville, N.C.; Kristina Rogowski of Coatesville; Jessica Rogowski, engaged to Chad Kurman, of Downingtown; and Marielle, Francesca, and Gianna Roselli of Philadelphia.
Alba is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews (Alba was closest to Leonard Grasso, son of Delores, of Sicklerville, N.J.); and several family friends.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her two sons, David and Louis, as well as her four brothers and three sisters, Ernie, Rick, Edmund, Frank, Norma, Elda, and Delores.
In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Brandywine SPCA (https://bvspca.org/donate).
A private celebration of Alba’s life will be held at her home.
Arrangements are being handled by Matthew J. Grieco of Grieco Funeral Home & Crematory, Inc. (484-734-8100). Condolences may be shared at www.griecofunerals.com.
costs of these projects at a great savings to the borough’s taxpayers.
Garcia-Allen presented her recommendations for the borough’s sidewalk and curb ordinance which has been a concern for many years.
“I am gathering information to update our ordinance,” she said.
Garcia-Allen said that there are three triggers—maintenance, rental inspection and sale of property—that trigger sidewalk rehab issues. Sidewalks along a PennDOT road also create another problem. She has looked at the sidewalk system borough-wide, not just parcel to parcel, in an effort to make sure that there are no “sidewalks to nowhere.”
“I want to match up sidewalks and curbs. Doing it parcel by parcel doesn’t make sense,” Garcia-Allen said. “I want to work with our solicitor and potentially take our curbs back. We can own curbs for water projects. I also see us amending the sidewalk escrow agreements to give us more time to look at it as a municipality. We need to have the flexibility to look at the whole street, and to have a finished vision of the placements of curbs and sidewalks.”
Sidewalks have been a constant problem in the Borough for many years, and Garcia-Allen is determined to not lose sight of the problem.
Garcia-Allen looks for grants on an on-going basis to limit the costs to local taxpayers.
“We have a lot of grant opportunities that have been presented to us,” she said.
Both U.S. Rep. Chrissy Houlahan and U.S. Sen. Robert Casey have discussed opportunities in community funding, as well as county grants, such as the Community Development Block Grant.
“We need to find fund-
DENNIS J. KLEINZ
Dennis J. Kleinz, 76, of Kirkwood, passed away on Friday, April 22, 2022 at Lancaster General Hospital. He was the husband of Rebecca Miller Kleinz, with whom he shared 32 years of marriage. Born on March 12, 1946 to Frederick and Harriett Kleinz, Dennis lived most of his life in Pennsylvania. He owned and operated Kleinz Construction Inc. for 50 years. He liked his work, which was also his hobby. Restoring and re-purposing old vehicles and machinery was something he enjoyed, bringing new life to old equipment.
Home was where he liked to be and his family was a priority.
Dennis is survived by two sons, Brian Chapman (Kelly) of Quarryville and Andrew Chapman (Kristi) of New Providence. He was proud to be called Poppop by seven grandchildren, Cheston, Joey, Evan, Lanie, Collins, Asher, and Harper. He is missed by his faithful canine companion, Buddy.
Dennis is survived by two sisters, Marge Kleinz and Susan Crawford, both of Oklahoma.
A brother, Fred, predeceased him.
Dennis attended Oxford United Methodist Church, 18 Addison St., Oxford, where a memorial service will be held on Friday, April 29 at 1:30 p.m. A dessert reception will follow in Fellowship Hall. Interment will be private.
Arrangements are being handled by the Edward L. Collins, Jr. Funeral Home, Inc., of Oxford.
Online condolences may be made at www.elcollinsfuneralhome.com
ing for our GIS system, to improve our website, upgrade our water meters, and for our waterline project,” Garcia-Allen said.
She plans to put together grant applications to help with the future needs of the borough.
In other news, Mayor Phil Harris said that he continues to work on the Memorial Day Parade and will have more information on that soon.
Detective Adam Weaver told council that Crime Watch continues to bring a lot of tips to the police department and help them solve many crimes in the borough. He encouraged everyone to continue to sign up and utilize the service.
Borough Solicitor Stacey Fuller reminded council that the Moran Development would be discussed at the next Planning Commission meeting.
She also continues to work with the developer at Sycamore Crossing on a variety of issues.
Borough Council approved the following:
• Resolution #13302022 supporting the Pennsylvania Commission for the United States Semi-Quincentennial;
• Resolution #1331-2022 to apply for a planning grant through the Delaware Valley Planning Commission’s Transportation and Community Development Initiative (TCDI) program to update the Borough’s Subdivision And Land Development and Zoning Ordinance;
• Resolution #1332-2022 to request federal community project funding from the offices of U.S. Rep. Chrissy Houlahan and U.S. Sen. Robert P. Casey to be used for the construction of the Water Infrastructure, Facilities and Equipment Improvements Project;
• Council also approved Flyway Excavating Inc. Pay Application #2 in the amount of $194,035.50 for the Transportation Center
Access Improvements Project (Streetscapes IV);
• Council passed a motion to approve a letter of intent to the Walk Works Program of the Pennsylvania Department of Health to submit an application for funding to assist with the development of an Active Transportation Plan;
• Council approved a motion to authorize advertising of ordinance regarding false alarms;
• Council approved a motion to authorize advertising of an ordinance to accept dedication of additional Right-of-Way offered by Presbyterian Homes, Inc.; and
• The annual spring cleanup event for the Borough of Oxford is scheduled for May 4 through May 7 from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Public Works Building at 450 W. Locust St. Public works staff will be on hand to direct participants and assist with unloading.
Scrap metal, appliances, and used oil will be accepted. Empty paint cans will be accepted if the lid is removed and all contents are dry.
Recyclable electronics will not be accepted. No hazardous materials of any kind will be accepted, and no liquids of any kind will be accepted.
Yard waste and brush will be accepted, but residents are reminded to place sticks and bagged yard waste curbside for the weekly pick up.
Tires will be accepted with payment as follows:
• Car tires: $4
• Light truck tires: $6
• Heavy truck tires: $12
• Tractor tires: $1 per inch
All payments for items requiring a fee for disposal will be cash only.
The Borough’s recycling trailer will be available during the event for all recyclable materials. This event is for Oxford Borough residents only and proof of residency is required.
ALMA L. CULLEN
Alma L. Cullen, of St. Anne’s Retirement Community, Columbia and formerly of Oxford, passed away after a brief illness on April 22, 2022 at home. She was 96. She was the wife of the late John W. Cullen, whom she shared 69 years of marriage with at the time of his death in 2015.
She was born in Frackville, Pa. to the late Clarence and Alma Meade Lloyd.
Alma worked in the insurance industry as the owner and agent of Cullen Insurance Agency.
She was a member of Sacred Heart Church, Oxford.
Alma enjoyed camping, painting, playing cards and being very social. She was a devout Catholic and attended Mass daily.
She is survived by three sisters, Inez Drennen of Oxford, Marcella Moore of Columbia and Elizabeth (Donald) Pierce of Rockville, Md. She is also survived by Edna Lloyd, a sister-in-law who she thought of as a sister.
In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by two brothers, Clarence Lloyd and John Lloyd and one sister, Anna Kirk.
She was “Aunt Cissy” to four generations of nieces and nephews. She loved them all and enjoyed time spent with them.
A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated on April 26 at Sacred Heart Church.
Interment will be in Oxford Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory may be made to the Vista Autism Services, 1021 Springboard Dr., Hershey, PA. 17033.
Arrangements are being handled by the Edward L. Collins, Jr. Funeral Home, Inc. in Oxford. Online condolences may be made at www.elcollinsfuneralhome.com.
Additional Obituaries on page 3B
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