Chester CountyPRESS
www.chestercounty.com
Covering Avon Grove, Chadds Ford, Kennett Square, Oxford, & Unionville Areas
Volume 155, No. 17
INSIDE
Wednesday, April 28, 2021
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Kennett Township opens books in 2019 audit report By Richard L. Gaw Staff Writer A recent audit of Kennett Township’s 2019 finances revealed “suspicious activity” and “several deficiencies,” all of which were likely to have factored in the conduct of former
township manager Lisa Moore that led to her firing in May of 2019 and later her arrest in December of 2019 on suspected charges of fraud, theft and embezzlement of more than $3.2 million in township funds. The audit and subsequent presentation was conduct-
ed by Christopher Herr, a certified public accountant with the firm of Maillie, LLP at the township’s April 21 online meeting. Among Herr’s audit findings were: • Annual budgeted contributions to local boards and authorities were not in
equal installments and limited back-up was provided. • Checks were signed using a rubber stamp signature. • Staff salaries were not approved by the Board of Supervisors, although percentage increases were approved by the board.
• Not all township invoices had evidence of approval. Each individual invoice should require a signature indicating approval for payment. • Invoices could not be located for three transactions (not related to the Continued on page 3A
Landenberg Life
Hall Building, Tubman mural to be razed to make way for new library By Richard L. Gaw Staff Writer As the late-July launch date for the construction of the Kennett Library & Resource Center at the corner of State and Willow streets in Kennett Square quickly approaches, it will require A great way to honor the removal of two buildmoms for Mother’s ings located on the back of Day...1B the library’s property, which are projected to both come down in early May. The first structure will be a small green house that has fallen into disrepair and has been condemned by the Kennett Borough. The other will be the Hall Building on 212 South Willow Street that once housed the Hope Chatham Lodge and a
Popular plant returns...2A
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Photo by Richard L. Gaw
The construction of the Kennett Library & Resource Center at the corner of State and Willow streets in Kennett Square will require the removal of two buildings located on the back of the library’s property, one of which is the Hall Building, most prominently known for its mural of Harriet Tubman. The new library will feature a new community mural that will honor Tubman and other members of southern Chester County’s cultural history.
Oxford Area School District proposes larger tax increase to cover budget shortfalls A 4.2 percent increase is on the table as the school district moves toward finalizing a spending plan for 2021-2022 By Steven Hoffman Staff Writer After keeping tax increases at a minimum—one-percent or less—for five straight years, the Oxford Area School District will likely
need a larger tax increase to balance the budget for 2021-2022. District officials said at an April 20 school board meeting that a 4.2 percent tax increase is under consideration as work continues
on the spending plan for the next fiscal year. The school board approved a proposed final budget at the meeting, and is expected to adopt a final budget next month. Pennsylvania school districts are required to
approve their budgets and set the new millage rates by June 30 each year. District officials pointed to budget shortfalls as the reason why a larger tax increase will be necessary this year.
“Our budget shortfalls are looking severe,” said school board member Robert Tenga, who serves on the district’s Finance and Budget Committee. The school district has Continued on page 4A
Two men charged Amphitheater at Saint with aggravated Anthony’s being re-imagined assault after shots as outdoor events venue were fired in home The Kennett Square Police Department has now arrested two men for their alleged involvement in an incident on April 10 where shots were fired in a home on Birch Street. Christian Sanchez-Franco, 18, and Ivan CastanoCastaneda, 17, are being charged with three counts of aggravated assault, weapons offenses, recklessly endangering another person, and other related assault offenses after an intensive investigation led police to believe that they were responsible for firing five rounds from a semiautomatic handgun into a home and in the direction of the bedroom of the house where three people were located at the time of the incident. Ivan Castano-Castaneda is being charged as an adult due to the nature of the offenses, after approval was obtained from the Chester County Continued on page 2A
By Richard L. Gaw Staff Writer
The 2,000-seat Greekstyle amphitheater at Saint Anthony in the Hills may currently own the signs of dormancy and neglect, but thanks to the ingenuity of an independent group of visionaries, residents may be flocking to The Roman Amphitheater as early as this August to watch movies beneath the evening stars. On April 26, during their second appearance before the New Garden Township
Board of Supervisors, representatives from MPH Events, LLC unveiled their plans to provide extensive renovations to the structure as part of a broad brushstroke that re-imagines it as the future home of film screenings, live performances, school graduations and religious events. Formed in 2021, MPH Events, LLC is made up of a team of professionals with a combined 65 years of experience in producing and facilitating live events, concerts, festivals and cor-
porate meetings. In his presentation, John DiEleuterio of MPH Events gave a timeline of the company’s two-phase plan for opening. Upon approval of a lease agreement with the township, the first phase will largely be spent upgrading the venue – repairing the railing and concrete seating areas to meet all code requirements, cleaning the area of debris, installing a temporary stage and providing portable latrines. Continued on page 3A
Brandywine Backyard BBQ Festival draws more than 500 to Scouts benefit By Richard L. Gaw Staff Writer
© 2007 The Chester County Press
barbershop. The Hall Building’s most prominent feature is the mural of Harriet Tubman that was added to the side of the structure in 2010, when artists Dave Mass and Joe Gothelf were commissioned to create a tribute to the legendary abolitionist, depicting Tubman leading freedom seekers by the light of a glowing lantern held in her right hand. Although the removal of the mural will be one of necessity, the new library is not forgetting Tubman’s legacy and connection to Kennett Square. The new library will feature a new community mural that will honor Tubman and
Despite the morning threat of rain and the unfortunate announcement that the barbecue portion of the event will have to wait until 2022 because of the continuing pandemic, the fourth
Brandywine Backyard Barbecue drew a crowd of more than 500 to New Garden Township Park on April 25 for a five-hour appreciation of scouting. Sponsored by the Chester County Council of the Boy Scouts of America (BSA), the fourth annual event –
which serves as a major fundraiser that benefits local scouting programs through the Friends of Scouting Campaign of the Chester County Council BSA -- looked to rebound from 2020, when it was canceled due to COVID-19.
Photo by Richard L. Gaw
The Late Ambition plays to a large audience who attended the fourth Brandywine Backyard BBQ event on April 25 at New Garden Township Park, which served as a benefit for the Chester County Council of Continued on page 4A the Boy Scouts of America.
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Chester County Press
Local News Kennett Beautification Committee Plant Sale returns this weekend The plant sale will be held in a new location—and in time for Mother’s Day One of the well-loved events that plant-loving locals missed in 2020 was the annual Kennett Beautification Committee Plant Sale. Organizers have announced that the plant sale is back this year, better than ever, in a two-day format and in a new location. Pratt’s Greenhouse at 634 Hillendale Road in Toughkenamon will host
this year’s sale on Saturday, May 1 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday, May 2 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Pratt’s provides a great space for a COVID-safe shopping experience and plenty of free parking. The wide variety of beautiful annuals and perennials for sale will also include plants that local garden club members bring from their gardens.
Those whose thumbs are less than green can’t go wrong planting these welltended and healthy plants, and those who don’t have the space for extensive garden beds can still brighten up window boxes and containers with colorful blooms and textured, multi-hued foliage. All proceeds from the Kennett Beautification Committee Plant Sale pay for the spring and summer plantings in the large planters up and down State Street enjoyed all season by locals and visitors alike. In addition to the costs of the plants themselves, the design, planting, and maintenance of these planters requires a significant investment of time, hard work, and expertise from many different community members. Bill Reynolds of Pratt’s Greenhouse has designed the Kennett Square planters for many years now. Having studied the daily patterns of sun and shade in the various locations of these planters, he selects a variety of plants for maximum effect
Tubman mural... Continued from Page 1A
other members of southern Chester County’s rich cultural history on a wall next to a new parking lot that will be located at the rear of the new library. In addition, the library’s Board of Trustees hosted two public meetings on its plans to clear the site, and told those in attendance that not only will Tubman will be memorialized on a new mural, local photographer Dylan Francis will photograph the current mural for posterity in the new library. Kennett Library Board
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District Attorney’s Office. The incident occurred at 1:30 a.m. on April 10. According to police, the investigation determined that this was not a random incident. There was a verbal altercation between a resident at the house and the suspects. Criminal complaints were filed against Sanchez-Franco and Castano-Castaneda, and arrest warrants were then obtained for both suspects. In the days following the
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The popular annual Kennett Beautification Committee Plant Sale returns this weekend with a new location—and is just in time for Mother’s Day.
and interest throughout the season. Volunteers from local garden clubs, including Barb Kurowski from the Four Seasons Garden Club, Diane Cannon and Marge Brant from Seedlings, and Michelle Springer and Abbey Reece from the Spade and Trowel Garden Club, do the planting, and the hardworking staff from the Borough of Kennett Square’s Public Works
Department not only prepare the planters each year but also keep them well watered throughout the season. The gardenscapes and placemaking projects that Historic Kennett Square is implementing as part of their Kennett Blooms initiative, said Historic Kennett Square Executive Director Bo Wright, and will complement the planters to make Kennett Square more
beautiful and vibrant than ever this season. Kennett Beautification Committee members JoAnn Dolnick and Prissy Roberts thanked the community for the continued support of the plant sale and look forward to seeing both new and familiar faces, behind masks, at the sale. They invite everyone to support a great cause and beautify their gardens or containers in time for Mother’s Day.
President Jeff Yetter worked with the members of Hope Chatham Lodge and the barbershop owners to find an appropriate space for them to relocate. The members of the Hope Chatham Lodge have formed a partnership with the Masonic Lodge 475 to meet in their lodge on Center Street. “We were pleased to help the library move forward,” stated Hope Past Master Kenny Jackson. Eric Downs of Lodge 475 added, “We look forward to sharing our space and supporting both Lodge’s missions.” Prior to demolition, a cornerstone and time
capsule from the Lodge was removed and preserved by the Masons. The library’s Board of Trustees is also extending their thanks to Rob and Loren Pearson, who are donating their time and talent to take down the buildings. Loren is a Library Trustee and also serves as Vice Chair of the New Building Committee. Estimated at $18 million, the new 31,485-square-foot library is projected to begin construction in late July and be completed in December 2022. By replacing the current 11,000-square-foot library on State Street that
was built in 1961, the new facility will be able to offer the community a greater availability of live events, educational and cultural programs, technology and resources. “For more than 125 years, the Kennett Library has been a vital resource for families throughout the region,” Yetter said. “It is a strong and viable community asset. We are working hard and look forward to continuing to meet the rapidly changing needs of our patrons.”
incident, detectives from the Kennett Square Police Department Criminal Investigation Division diligently continued the effort to locate and apprehend both individuals. On April 15, the investigation revealed a potential location in Delaware. Detectives conducted surveillance on the location where both wanted subjects were then observed. The subjects left that location in a vehicle, at which point the Delaware State Police attempted to conduct a traffic stop. The suspects
fled from law enforcement officials and subsequently crashed the vehicle as they entered Pennsylvania in the area of Newark Road and Broad Run Road in New Garden Township. An uninvolved vehicle was struck by the suspects’ vehicle at the time of the crash, police said. The adult female driver of that uninvolved vehicle was taken by ambulance for observation. After the accident, both subjects were taken into custody without injury along with an uninvolved adult female who was in the
suspects’ vehicle at the time of the crash. Two firearms were recovered that had been thrown from the suspects’ vehicle just prior to the crash. Additional charges are being filed by the Delaware State Police and the Southern Chester County Regional Police Department for criminal acts involved during the pursuit and at the scene of the crash. The Kennett Square Police Department thanked both agencies for their assistance during this investigation.
To contact Staff Writer Richard L. Gaw, email rgaw@chestercounty.com.
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Local News Kennett Township audit... Continued from Page 1A
identified questionable and suspicious activity of Moore) • Checks for smaller amounts only had one authorized signature. Herr said the audit report also uncovered a segregation of duties in cash receipts. “During our review of internal controls of the process of receipts, it was determined that the accounting clerk (Moore) received all receipts, entered the receipts into the accounting system, prepared the deposit and put the deposit into the bank,” he said. “One person was running the whole process, which is not something you ever want to see when it comes to internal controls. “When any entity – forprofit, non-profit and government -- starts getting into problems with internal controls, segregation of duties is usually one of the main culprits. You want to have multiple people involved in the process.” Following Herr’s presentation, Finance and Human Resources Director Amy Heinrich listed the many checks and balances that have since been instituted in an effort to better account for how the township has controlled its finances since 2019. They have included: • An extensive investigation of township transactions prior to the time of Moore’s dismissal as township manager in April 2019 was conducted by the Chester County District Attorney’s office and Marcum LLP, a forensic accounting firm. These findings were incorporated into legal charges against Moore by the Chester County District Attorney’s office. • Every 2019 transaction has been thoroughly reviewed by the township and reconciled to bank records and other back-up documents. • The township staff has addressed nearly all of the discrepancies found in the 2019 audit, and the few remaining have been rectified by implementation of Sage Intact, the township’s new general ledger system. • All invoices are approved by one or more members of the management team. • The use of stamped signatures on invoices has been eliminated by the township, and all checks are signed by two members of the Board of Supervisors. • The township now has the people in place to properly divide up the duties related to the financial management of the township, including the Finance/HR Director and three members of the township’s financial department. • The township no longer
accepts cash payments, and now accepts credit cards for all payments, including permits and police reports. Additionally, sewer payments go to a lockbox service to drastically reduce check volume. • Payments from other government bodies and most grant funders come electronically. • All salaries and any changes since the fraud discovery are now approved by the Board of Supervisors. “A key portion of an audit is always to highlight concerns about material deficiencies,” Heinrich said. “Of course, given 2019 and the events leading up to April of 2019 (when the deficiencies in the township’s accounting were first detected) we were very familiar with what were going to find in the audit.” The 2019 audit findings, as well as all other financial information related to the township, can be found at www.kennett.pa.us/159/ Finance-HR and www. kennett.pa.us/388/PublicMeeting-Documents. Funding for Five Points Intersection In other business, the township was recently awarded $2.19 million in funding that will be used to construct a longawaited roundabout at the Five Points intersection. The grant was one of PennDOT’s 43 multimodal projects planned across the commonwealth. The township’s local match to the project is $767,743, for a total project cost of $2,961,293. Expected to begin its engineering plans this summer, the roundabout will be located at the intersection of South Union Street, Kaolin Road, Hillendale Road and Old Kennett Road. The grant comes after several unsuccessful attempts by the township to secure funding to build the roundabout, a topic that nonetheless has remained near the top of the township’s priority list, in order to enhance the safety of the regions’ residents and commuters, reduce growing congestion and increase traffic efficiency. Ratliff, who acknowledged PennDOT, Sen. John Kane and Rep. Craig Williams for their assistance in getting the project funded, said that had the township not been proactive in securing funding for the intersection, upgrades would likely not occur before 2030. Ratliff also said that while the design concept for the roundabout is being drawn for a project that is likely to be completed in three years -- the township will be working with businesses and homeowners near the intersection.
Photo by Richard L. Gaw
MPH Events, LLC, a newly formed event management group, is looking to secure a lease arrangement with New Garden Township to renovate and operate the dormant amphitheater at Saint Anthony in the Hills, as a venue for outdoor movies and other events.
Saint Anthony... Continued from Page 1A
Family-friendly movie nights at The Roman Amphitheater – which DiEleuterio said could begin as early as August – will also provide beverages and snacks for sale, and food trucks that will support local organizations. Phase two of the concept will include the installation of a permanent concert stage, that DiEleuterio said will increase the profile of the amphitheater and provide opportunities to produce more complex live events. In addition, MPH Events proposes to work with the township, local fire companies and the Southern Chester County Regional Police Department to create an effective traffic plan for the venue. DiEleuterio emphasized that the rate of growth of The Roman Amphitheater will be contingent upon the amount of sponsorships and partnerships MPH Events develops. The key partnership, he said, will be with the township, where the company is asking for a 20-year lease for the amphitheater. As part of that desired partnership, DiEleuterio said that the company will request that the township support the upgrading of restroom facilities adjacent to the theater, coordinate with local power companies to provide electrical service to the theater; provide ADA-compliant seating; create lighting and pathways from the parking lot to the theater; and supply police and traffic safety and security patrols. Throughout the presentation, MPH Events representatives assured the township that the compa-
ny will be in charge of several yards away, would the heavy lifting needed to cause an overflow of traffic and congestion. operate the venue. “I have serious concerns about bringing even more Creating a ‘single people right now, until we point of contact’ have buttoned up some of “If it were up to every the safety issues that we are organization to book their anticipating in the park,” own trash service and she said. “I would like to coordinate with fire and see less traffic in here as police, it would be a gar- much as possible until we gantuan effort,” said Tom can ensure the safety of Manchester. “Essentially everyone going in there. “We as a township need what we’re doing is creating a single point of contact to address some of those between the community, concerns before we can the township and its infra- entertain any additional structure. That way, things traffic.” At this stage, it’s not just are scheduled cleanly and it creates a great reflection reaching a lease agreement on the township as well, in with the township that is the sense that we can create foremost on the to-do list standards such as control- for MPH Events. While ling noise ordinances, in a he was not able to proway that are consistent with vide an estimate for the projected cost of renovatcommunity values. “By putting all of these ing the theater, DiEleuterio things in place, we create a said that the company will safer and consistent event raise the funding through experience, regardless of sponsorships, grants and what contractors or groups community appeals. “Once we have a lease are there.” While the overall con- and ink on paper and this cept to revitalize an unused is our project, we will attraction in the township move forward with raising was positively received money,” he said. “Because by the board, several had this space is so special, I questions about the cost of don’t believe it will be an providing ADA-compliant issue to raise money.” There is also the issue of seating, infrastructure improvements and parking logistics. Supervisor Michael Loftus balked at the idea of the township entering into a 20-year lease with MPH Events. “I think we could possibly do a shorter lease,” DiEleuterio said. “We are more than willing to work with the township.” Supervisor Kristie Brodowski drew attention to another potential snafu -that the proposed opening of the amphitheater, combined with the projected late May opening of the Splash Surf Club franchise
repairing a large venue that hasn’t hosted a live event in decades. Jamie Watts of MPH Events said that the company has met with the township’s code manager to review the infrastructure needs, and reinforced that the only major work that needs to be done is to fix the seating and install railing. “We’re very community focused,” DiEleuterio said. “Saint Anthony in the Hills was built by the community, for the community and we want to keep it that way. One of our main goals is to amplify and honor the aesthetics and history of the space. We would like to educate the community about the history of Saint Anthony in the Hills through oral history and research. “Another main goal is to provide the surrounding community with increased access to the arts. The amphitheater is an exceptional space and can host a variety of entertainment and cultural events, as a way to bring the arts directly to the community.” To contact Staff Writer Richard L. Gaw, email rgaw@chestercounty.com.
To contact Staff Writer Richard L. Gaw, email rgaw@chestercounty.com.
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Local News Backyard BBQ... Continued from Page 1A
It certainly lived up to previous years, as sociallydistant crowds filled a ball field adjacent to a pavilion stage to hear live music by The Late Ambitions, Younger Than Charlie and Ol’ 442. Rimming the stage area, several food trucks served up a wide assortment of goodies that included 22BBQ, Uncle John’s BBQ, Baked of West Chester, On The Roll, Sugar Shack, Chuck’s Barbeque and Rita’s Water Ice, with adult beverages served by Braeloch
Oxford tax increase... Continued from Page 1A
been dipping into its fund balance each year to balance the annual budget, and after years of doing that, the district is now in a position where it will need to boost revenues to offset the increases in expenditures. District officials want to work toward being able to balance the budget without utilizing the fund balance by the 2025-2026 school year so that Oxford doesn’t end up in a precarious financial position. District officials pointed out that a larger tax increase
Brewing Company and Harvest Ridge Winery. “We have tried to turn this into a community event, not just for the scouting community but the whole community,” said Brandywine Backyard BBQ Chairman Don Kohler. “The purpose of this is to have people out to enjoy the park, and hopefully our impact will be to raise funds for scouting and provide more information on scouting.” To learn more about the Chester County Council of the Boy Scouts of America, visit www.cccbsa.org/join, or to find a scout troop near was avoided last year – at the height of the pandemic – by utilizing money from the fund balance, but it would be irresponsible to continue to do that. Brian Cooney, the district’s business administrator, said that a tax increase at 4.2 percent, which is Oxford’s adjusted Act 1 Index limit, would bring in about $1.6 million in revenues. That’s not enough to cover all the year-to-year expenditure increases, but it will reduce how much of the fund balance gets used up this year. Superintendent David Woods said that the Public School Employees’ Retirement System
you, visit www.BeAScout. org. To contact Staff Writer Richard L. Gaw, email rgaw@chestercounty.com.
Photo by Richard L. Gaw
New Garden Township Supervisor Steve Allaband, far right, joined with Brandywine Backyard BBQ Chairman Don Kohler; Chester County Boy Scouts’ Octorara District Executive Melissa Pendill; and Chester County Boy Scouts’ Membership Chairperson Poorwa Iarocci Kenkre.
(PSERS) costs, as well as expenses related to special education and charter schools, are the three line items that are impacting the budget the most. “We have almost zero control over those three cost drivers,” Woods said. Several school board members talked about how Oxford’s budget is much less than those of neighboring school districts, so the need for a tax increase is not a result of unnecessary spending. School board member Mark Patterson pointed out that Oxford’s budget is in the range of $73 million, while other school districts in the area have budgets that exceed $90 million. Tenga said that Oxford’s tax increases of less than one-percent per year during the last five years compare favorably to the tax increases by other school districts in the area during that same time period when, he said,
only one other district had an average tax increase of under two-percent. Ultimately, the school board approved the proposed final budget, 7-2. School board president Joseph Tighe said that he did not support a tax increase of 4.2 percent as he voted against the motion. If the school district does adopt a final budget with a 4.2 percent tax increase, the average taxpayer’s bill would rise by $172. In other business, the school board discussed a large project that is being planned to update the heating and cooling systems in the Jordan Bank School, the Nottingham School, and Elk Ridge. The school board approved a contract totaling $2,526,193 with the McClure Company. Cooney explained that the systems in these older buildings had not been updated during the last 30 years, and the district has known for some
time that improvements were going to be needed. Elk Ridge will need less work than the other two buildings because the air conditioning system was upgraded several years ago when the system stopped working. There are some positive aspects to the project. First, Oxford is taking advantage of some one-time funding. The school district has received pandemic relief grants totaling about $3.2 million, and some of that money can be used for facilities upgrades like this. Additionally, once the upgrades are made, Oxford will see a reduction in its energy costs each year. The school board approved a new contract for Dr. Margaret BillingsJones, the district’s assistant superintendent. The new contract begins on July 1 and extends through June 30, 2025. Billings-Jones has been with the school district
since July of 2013. Her contract extension comes just a month after the school board also finalized a new contract with Woods, who also joined the district in 2013. Woods’ pact also extends through June 30, 2025. In her report to the school board, Billings-Jones said that the summer school program is being enhanced this year so that all students in the district can get the extra help that they need to overcome the challenges of the tumultuous 2020-2021 school year. Details about the summer course offerings can be found on the school district’s website. The school board’s next work session will take place on Tuesday, May 11. A regular meeting will take place on Tuesday, May 18. Both meetings will begin at 7 p.m. To contact Staff Writer Steven Hoffman, email editor@chestercounty.com.
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CHESTER COUNTY PRESS
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Chester County Press
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Opinion Guest column
Editorial
Vaccines are saving small business The strange, curious, continuing and seemingly never-ending case of Lisa Moore By Karen Kerrigan
It has become a necessary and customary ritual at the start of every Kennett Township Board of Supervisors meeting over the past year for township manager Eden Ratliff to report that there have been no new developments in what the township deems its “recovery update.” Ratliff’s “no new news” has become the signature echo in the hollow of what has happened since former township manager Lisa Moore was arrested on Dec. 10, 2019 for allegedly embezzling over $3.2 million of township funds, and the impact of this empty shrill has reverberated around a township – and a region – that has grown increasingly frustrated about the insufferable delay in bringing this case to trial. Over the past 17 months, we have witnessed a township dig its heels into the mud of this scandalous quagmire and endeavor to clean it up. Ratliff was hired as its new manager, and then Amy Heinrich as its director of finance and human resources. The township hired the forensic accounting firm Marcum, and then the law firm Blank Rome, LLP, who has helped the township recover $1 million of the funds that Moore had allegedly stolen from the township between 2013 and 2019. Meanwhile, the mud continues to reveal a deeper truth. At the township meeting held on April 21, Christopher Herr, a representative from the accounting firm of Maillie, LLP gave a thorough review of his audit of the township’s 2019 financial data. He used words like “suspicious activity” and “several deficiencies” throughout his presentation. He found several invoices that had not been approved by the supervisors, lost invoices, staff salary increases that were not approved by the supervisors, no effective system of purchases, and township checks signed with the rubber stamp signature of the then board chairman – an across-the-board dereliction of duties. While Moore’s alleged activities continue to become known, however, none of them have come to the full light of the legal system. Instead, while the residents of Kennett Township and southern Chester County continue to wait for proper justice to be served and ultimate facts to be revealed, the trial of Lisa Moore has become a kick-the-can-down-the-road series of continuations and delays. A preliminary hearing, originally scheduled for Feb. 11, 2020, was waived until April 21, 2020, until it was also waived. Most recently, a trial date that had been set for April 19, 2021 before the Hon. David Bortner of the 15th Judicial District has been continued, with a new trial date set for June. Will that date be continued to another date in the future? We have no way of knowing, but the only truth we have now is an alleged one, that tells a story about a once prominent figure in local politics and the Kennett community who may – or may not have -- played her own personal parlor game for at least eight years, deceiving residents, elected and appointed leaders, stakeholders and yes, even herself. And yet, until we begin to know all of the facts, and until that day arrives when the word “alleged” will no longer be applied to this case, the ultimate knowledge of what actually happened remains an illusive truth. And what is the value of a truth that never comes?
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Americans are slowly returning to their favorite mom-and-pop shops and locally owned restaurants. With COVID-19 cases falling, and a growing percentage of the U.S. population becoming fully vaccinated, most states have lifted the strictest lockdown measures. Relief can’t come soon enough for small businesses. These firms are the backbone of our economy, accounting for more than 40 percent of GDP and almost half of all jobs. Our economy will depend on these firms to create new jobs and bring the nation back to full recovery. Small firms have borne the economic brunt of the coronavirus, largely because so many of their business models depend on in-person interaction. Thousands -- perhaps millions -- will not survive. Restaurants have suffered massively, with the sector losing 2.5 million jobs and $240 billion in sales in 2020.
Things could have been much worse without the quick “pivoting” of entrepreneurs and the vaccines. It is critical for elected leaders to understand the policies that brought us to this positive juncture in order to make the right choices for the future. Experts didn’t know if drug makers could invent, test, and produce vaccines for a brand-new disease as rapidly as they did. The previous record for speedy vaccine development had been four years, and it often takes 10 to 15. Yet Moderna and Pfizer brought their vaccines to market in less than one. In-person enterprises would not be able to reopen without vaccines. It’s harrowing to think how the economy would fare in the face of multiyear lockdowns. While the pace of vaccine development has been dramatic, it’s no miracle. Industry and government officials have spent decades honing policies that facilitate rapid medical innovation.
The system that gave us record-speed vaccines rests on a few pillars. One is the 1980 BayhDole Act. It promotes technology transfer from academia to the private sector by letting universities own and license patents on discoveries made with help from federal grants. By giving universities the right to license their researchers’ discoveries to private companies, the law has spurred the creation of countless startups. Another important tenet is allowing companies to price products without government restrictions, which encourages risktaking and the sizable level of investment it takes to bring a treatment to market. Finally, stringent protections on intellectual property give investors and innovators the confidence they need to make large bets on long-shot drug research. These policies explain why the United States has been the world’s leading
drug developer for more than 30 years. And why a company like Moderna -- a small startup just a decade ago -- could produce a vaccine in record time. Some lawmakers are keen to loosen intellectual property protections and impose price controls on new drugs. Such policies would make us unready for the next public health crisis. If we torpedo our current system, the lockdowns we face when the next pandemic rolls around could last much longer. It’s been a challenging year, but we have finally reached a hopeful point thanks to the policies that gave us vaccines in record time. A thriving future for small business and our nation’s health depends on keeping these critical policies intact.
Karen Kerrigan is President and CEO of the Small Business & Entrepreneurship Council. This piece originally ran in the International Business Times.
Five ways to celebrate National Donate Life Month By Susan Koomar, Gift of Life Donor Program Every minute counts for more than 5,000 children and adults waiting for a life-saving organ transplant in eastern Pennsylvania and across our region, according to Gift of Life Donor Program. Gift of Life, the organ and tissue donor program for our community, is working to give each person on the waitlist a second chance at life and invites everyone to join in celebrating the power of donation this April, which is National Donate Life Month. This month’s theme, “Garden of Life,” highlights the seeds of hope sown by every person who registers as a donor. The impact of one donor is extraordinary. One organ donor can save up to eight lives and a tissue donor can transform the lives of more than 100 people through gifts of corneas, skin, bone, veins, ligaments, and heart valves. Here are five ways to take part in National Donate Life Month:
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1. Register as a donor: Visit donors1.org to sign up today. It’s quick and easy. Anyone can be a potential donor regardless of age or medical history. 2. Share your decision: Tell your family and friends about your lifesaving decision and encourage them to sign up. Donors are heroes. 3. Learn more: Explore our website at donors1.org to discover facts versus myths about donation and much more. 4. Connect with us on social media: Read and share inspiring stories about donors and transplant recipients from our community by following
Gift of Life on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. 5. Take a victory lap: The Gift of Life region has been the most generous for organ and tissue donation in the United States every year since 2008. Selfless donors and their compassionate families have saved thousands of lives with support from healthcare heroes in the 128 acute care hospitals and 15 transplant centers that Gift of Life works with. Gift of Life Donor Program is the non-profit, federally designated organ procurement organization serving 11.3 million people in the eastern half of Pennsylvania, southern
Susan Koomar
New Jersey and Delaware. Since 1974, Gift of Life has coordinated more than 52,500 life-saving organs for transplant, and approximately 1.75 million tissue transplants have resulted from the generosity of donors and their families.
Avon Grove School District community invited to attend a virtual focus group on April 28 The Avon Grove School District is in the process of creating a three-year communication plan and is seeking input from school personnel, parents and the community through a series of focus groups. Focus group participants will share their perceptions about the district as well as its communications strategy. The focus group will be held on Wednesday, April 28 from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. via Zoom. All interested members of the community are invited to attend.
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CHESTER COUNTY PRESS
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 28, 2021
Chester County Press
In the Spotlight
Section
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WEDNESDAY, APRIL 28, 2021
Missing Mom on Mother’s Day? Honor her and other moms By Betsy Brewer Brantner Contributing Writer For those of us whose mother has departed, Mother’s Day is an extremely difficult day. When you see the card, gift, and flower displays in stores, it’s a sad reminder that your mom is no longer here. So this year, honor your mother by helping other mothers, families and individuals. And, of course, if your mother is still with you, find the perfect gift for the mother who doesn’t need a thing, make her proud by sending her a gift basket where 100 percent of the proceeds go toward helping others. And for young mothers just beginning to raise their children, a gift shows them they are supported in their motherhood journey and allows them to feel they are helping others, too. This great opportunity is brought to you by New London Counseling Center (NLC), a non-profit organization that provides individual, couples, family, and group counseling to the southern Chester County community. Dr. Katie Bowman, the executive director of the center, is very excited about this fundraiser. Since they are a non-profit, fundraising is vital so they can carry out their mission. Every basket sold pays for one person or family to start treatment at New London Counseling Center, and 100 percent of the proceeds go directly to therapy scholarships for people in the community who are unable to pay for services. Some clients pay as little as $10 per hour-long session with a licensed mental health professional. Approximately half of the clients receive a scholarship to pay for their mental health care. NLC has an amazing team of nine clinicians with expertise in a variety of areas so they are able to treat just about everyone from age 5 and up. They offer individual, marriage, family, and group therapy. The mission at NLC
is to meet people where they are, so they do lots of workshops and presentations for a variety of civic, religious and community groups---free of charge. The gift baskets are $75 and can be purchased at https://www.newlondoncounselingcenter.com. People can also donate baskets to young moms with significant life challenges. By donating a gift basket to a young mom in need, you are also paying for the cost of therapy for a local family or individual. Here’s what the gift baskets include: • Breakfast in bed, which includes freshly baked scones from Sweet Magnolia Bakery in Landenberg, a fruit cup, and a tea bag; • Chocolates; • Flowers (4.5-inch potted flowers); • Spa essentials, such as Arbonne face wash, face mask, face serum, and moisturizer, detox teas and fizz sticks; • Expert strategies for unwinding and taking care of yourself (videos by the resident therapists along with aromatherapy candles or essential oils). If you want to make this Mother’s Day extra special and double the love, you can purchase an extra gift basket, which will be given to a young mom (under 21) who is facing huge life challenges and could use a little encouragement. Baskets will be available for pick-up on May 8 from 9 a.m. to noon and 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. at the Christian Life Center, 125 Saginaw Road, Lincoln University, PA 19352. If you have questions, you can send an email to executivedirector@newlodoncounselingcenter.com. You can also support the center by making a donation in any amount. NLC has already raised $1,522 toward their goal of $5,000. NLC began in 2019, when members of the Christian Life Center in Lincoln University recognized a need for mental health services in Southern Chester County and wanted to make counseling available to the entire
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A few of the New London Counseling Center therapists. The center began in 2019, when members of the Christian Life Center in Lincoln University recognized a need for mental health services in Southern Chester County.
community regardless of their ability to pay. Pastor Joshua Roberts from Christian Life Center invited Bowman to join this endeavor, and the New London Counseling Center was born. The Christian Life Center has been, and will continue to be, a generous donor toward this new organization and an important community partner. The New London Counseling Center operates out of a grand home with a rich history, built in the 1850s and is nestled in historic New London Village. The quiet solitude and beauty offered by this home and land is evident as soon as you pull into the driveway. The property boasts a working farm over eight sprawling acres. It houses a barn, silo and airplane hangar that once operated as the New London Airport for several
NLC got the word out about the organization’s mission at a First Friday event in Oxford in 2019.
decades. Today, the former landing strip has been returned to farm land. Bowman said, “We have nine therapists and see 100 people at any given time. We don’t turn anyone away.” NLC plans a future event, the first annual Denim and Diamonds fundraiser on Sept. 25 from 5 to 9 p.m. at 85 Lewisville Road, Lincoln University. It will be an outdoor evening of dinner and dancing with live music under the stars. NLC works in the southern Chester County community. They are currently working with The Garage Community & Youth Center, an after-school and youth development program serving middle and high school students in West Grove and Kennett Square. Bowman cares deeply about the youth and has been working with them
extensively in the last few months. “We have been helping them with a variety of mental issues,” she said. “During the pandemic, mental health issues have escalated, especially for 13- to 19-year-olds, and 75 percent of mental health issues start in adolescence, so it is very important to intervene at that time. Four out of 10 adolescents are struggling with anxiety and depression. During the pandemic, it has become much more serious. “We have been flooded with clients,” Bowman said. “We are up over 50 percent from where we were last year. One of our therapists goes to Jenner’s Pond to help health care workers. There is a real sense of urgency to succeed. We desperately need to see people, and we really need volunteers. “Fundraisers are very
Dr. Katie Bowman, the executive director of New London Counseling Center, said that the pandemic has increased the need for counseling services.
important to us since 50 percent of our clients are on a scholarship and are paying less than what it costs to deliver service. And we won’t say no to anyone who needs help.” To make an appointment with the New London Counseling Center, call 484-746-3112.
Children are pictured here playing with NLC counselors. Helping children is one of the most important duties of the staff.
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CHESTER COUNTY PRESS
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 28, 2021
Chester County Press
Obituaries MARIA MARTELLI Maria Martelli, 87, of Kennett Square, passed away on April 14 at Select Specialty Hospital in Wilmington, Del. She was the wife of Gino Martelli, with whom she shared 58 beautiful years of marriage. Born in 1933 in Civitella del Tronto, Teramo, Italy, Maria was the daughter of the late Carino and Giulia Di Luigi Lucignoli. Maria was a homemaker who loved gardening, cooking, and spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren. She was a member of St. Patrick’s Church since 1965. In addition to her adoring husband, Gino, Maria is
survived by her daughter, Stephania Price (John); son, Domenic Martelli (Jennifer); and her five grandchildren, Brandon, Austin, Alexandria, Luke and Giavanna. Maria’s viewing will be private. Her Mass of Christian Burial was held on April 23 at St. Patrick Catholic Church in Kennett Square. Interment followed at St. Patrick Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations in Maria’s memory may be made to the American Cancer Society, 1818 Market St., Suite 2820, Philadelphia, Pa. 19103 or St. Patrick Church, 212 Meredith St, Kennett Square, Pa. 19348. To view Maria’s online tribute and to share a message with her family, please visit www.kuzoandfoulkfh.com. Arrangements are being handled by Kuzo Funeral Home in Kennett Square.
EDWARD WILLIAM AUGHE, JR. Edward William Aughe, Jr., a resident of Parkesburg, went home to be with Jesus after passing peacefully in his sleep at his home on Feb. 15. He was 78. He was born on Oct. 21, 1942 in Upper Darby, Pa. to Edward Aughe and Cecelia (Werner) Aughe. Ed is survived by his three children (two daughters and a son), their mother, two grandsons and four granddaughters, and two great-granddaughters, two great-grandsons, and another great-grandchild on the way. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brothers, William and Robert, and his sister, Phyllis. Ed was a U.S. veteran and served as an Airman First Class in the U.S. Air Force. Ed loved flying airplanes and was learning to fly helicopters before taking ill. Ed had a great sense of humor. He was an avid Philadelphia Eagles fan and coached Little League baseball. He enjoyed country living. Ed received his bachelors degree in accounting, and he worked in the food industry most of his adult life. He owned Ed’s Delicatessen in Quakertown, Pa. in the 1970s and West Chester Glass Company in the 2000s. No memorial or funeral services were held.
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Psalm 34:17 The Chester County Press features a dedicated church/religious page that can help you advertise your house of worship and/or business. The page is updated weekly with new scripture. Only $10 Weekly for this space. We are offering a special discount of 25% off each and every help wanted/ classified advertisement to any business that advertises on the PRESS church page.
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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.
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HERR FOODS, INC. NOTTHINGHAM, PA
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P.O. Box 270 Oxford, PA 19363 Meets First and Third Thursday at 6:30p.m. Nottingham Inn, Nottingham, PA
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WEDNESDAY, APRIL 28, 2021
CHESTER COUNTY PRESS
3B
Chester County Press
Local News Kennett Library brings together local author and businesses in Story Stroll collaboration When local children’s author Jamie Kleman’s son confused the term “going green” with witches, Frankenstein, and other iconic monsters during a car ride home, she couldn’t have known the impact the book it inspired would have. Years later, when Kleman
donated a signed copy of “It’s Not Mean to be Green,” a story that helps children of all ages understand what they can do to take care of the environment, to the Kennett Library, the library staff knew exactly what to do with it. They’re turning it into a bilingual Story Stroll.
In collaboration with eighteen local businesses, the story is being divided into two-page sections that will be displayed in the front windows of participating businesses and restaurants so that as families walk downtown Kennett Square, parents and their children can read the whole story
Oxford Area High School Air Force Jr. ROTC cadets honored
together. Both English and Spanish versions of “It’s Not Mean to be Green” will be in the shop and restaurant windows throughout the entire month of May. The story begins at Work2Together on East State Street and ends at Nomadic Pies, two blocks
down on West State Street. Other participating businesses are restaurants La Verona, Portabello’s, Verbena, Lily’s, Talula’s Table, and Grain, as well as businesses Green Eyed Lady, Picone Spa, Fab & Boujee, Kennett Glass, Trail Creek Outfitters, The Mushroom Cap, Cigar
Life, The Growing Tree, Bove Jeweler’s and the Historic Kennett Square organization. The book is available to check out from the Kennett Library in the children’s section. For more information, visit https:// kennettlibrary.org.
Giant employees plant trees for Earth Day
Three Oxford Area High School students who are members of the Air Force Jr. ROTC program were honored at the PA-771 AFJROTC 42nd Annual Military Ball on April 17 at the Coatesville Country Club.
Freshman cadet Gabe Andrews received the 2021 Scottish Rite Award. He is pictured with parents Erin and Timothy. Sophomore cadet Jayden Rickards, daughter of Janet and Thomas Rickards, was a 2021 “Miss AFJROTC Court” Candidate.
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Junior cadet Laura Kister, daughter of Linette and Shawn Kister, received the Outstanding Cadet of the Year Award and Military Officers Association of America JROTC Medal. She is pictured with Lt. Colonel James E. Turnball (Ret.), head of the AFJROTC program.
Courtesy photo
Employees from the Giant in Thorndale planted 10 trees at the East Brandywine Township Community Park in Downingtown in honor of Earth Day. The company also donated 10 benches made of recycled materials to the park by way of its Bags to Benches Program. Chester County commissioners Michelle Kichline, Josh Maxwell, and Marian Moskowitz, along with East Brandywine Township manager Luke Reven, were also in attendance.
Obituaries
JEFFREY MICHAEL PATRICK Jeffrey Michael (JP) Patrick, 50, of Bear, Del., passed away peacefully April 20 at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital in Philadelphia from complications associated with a liver transplant. Born on Oct. 8, 1970 in Chester County to Gwyn C. and Helen D. (Holbrook) Patrick, Jeffrey grew up in Oxford, where he was active in the Boy Scouts, achieving the rank of Eagle Scout. He graduated from Oxford Area High School in 1989, received a degree in education from Kutztown University in 1993, and earned a degree in culinary arts from the Pennsylvania Institute of Culinary Arts in Pittsburgh in 1995. He spent the next 24 years working in all aspects of food service, including roles as chef, manager, owner, and health/safety specialist. He began his relationship with his husband, Burriss (Burt) Wilson, Jr., on May 21, 2005, and they married on Jan. 16, 2016. Friends and family were Jeffrey’s first love, and he often showed that love through food. He was at his happiest inviting a group of people over to enjoy (and occasionally suffer through) his culinary experiments. On the rare occasion an experiment didn’t work, he was always the first to suggest it should be abandoned in favor of take-out pizza. Jeffery spent much of his free time traveling, and his outgoing personality and laid-back demeanor earned him lifelong friends across the country and around the world. Jeffrey was predeceased by his father, Gwyn C. Patrick. He is survived by his husband, Burt of Bear, Del.; his mother, Helen of Nottingham; his brothers Thomas Patrick (Kerry) of Rising Sun, Md., and G. Charles Patrick, Jr. (Tammy) of Nottingham; his sister Donna Patrick-Roten (Thomas) of Nottingham; his nephews, Brandon Patrick (Nicole) of Falls Church, Va., Cody Patrick (Taylor) of Havre de Grace, Md., Dusty Patrick (Kristen) of Rising Sun, Md., and Joshua Patrick of Nottingham; his niece MacKenzie Twardus (Dalton) of Baltimore, Md.; his grandnephews Jack Patrick of Havre de Grace, Md., and Chase Twardus of Baltimore, Md.; and an extended family of many loving relatives. In lieu of flowers, Jeffrey requested that contributions in his memory be made to the Brandywine River Museum of Art’s art acquisition fund (www.brandywine. org/brandywine/support/make-donation). A celebration of his life will be held in October of 2021.
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LINDA S. HAMPTON Linda S. Hampton passed away on Mach 25 at her residence in Oxford. She was 65. Her husband, James Hampton, passed away in 2016. Born in West Grove, she was the daughter of the late Elijah J. Roberts and the late Ruby Edwards Roberts. Linda was a packer at Herr’s Foods for over 15 years, retiring in 2018. She enjoyed going to flea markets and being with her family. She is survived by three stepdaughters, Lenna Pearson of Landenberg, Donna Hampton of York, and Crystal Alexander of Leola; one brother, Glenn Roberts of Milford, Pa., and one sister, Kathy Wood of Weaverville, N.C. Linda was predeceased by one brother, Bobby Roberts, and three sisters, Jean Price, Geraldine Barker and Rosa Hoosier. Her service and burial will be private. To view her online tribute and to share a memory with her family, please visit www.kuzoandfoulkfh. com.
CLARENCE L. GRAY Clarence L. Gray, 71, a resident of West Grove, died April 19 in the Jennersville Hospital-Tower Health in West Grove. Born in Elkton, Md., on Dec. 25, 1949, he was the son of the late Clarence E. Gray, Jr. and Catherine Eva (Doyle) Gray. He is survived by his siblings, Alice Marie Kennedy (David) of Deland, Fla., Roger W. Gray (Louise) of Nottingham, Gary Gray (Debra) of Cochranville, Carol Gray of Coatesville, Faye Hornyak (John) of Nottingham, Charles Gray of Oxford and several nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, Clarence was also preceded in death by his brothers, Larry and Delbert Gray. The funeral service was held on April 23 at Crouch Funeral Home in North East, Md. Interment was in Rose Bank Cemetery in Rising Sun, Md. For condolences, please visit www.crouchfuneralhome. com.
MARJORY A. MORAN Marjory A. Moran, a resident of Lewes, Del. and formerly of the Oxford area, passed away on April 24 at home. She was 82. She was the wife of Frank E. Moran, with whom she shared 64 years of marriage. Born in West Chester, she was the daughter of the late James and Alma Mink Young. She was formerly employed with W.L. Gore, Barksdale Plant in Newark, Del. for 16 years as an administrative assistant. Marjory was an avid reader and enjoyed the beach. She is survived by her husband; one son, Michael D. Moran (Cathy) of Elkton, Md.; three grandchildren, Chastity Moran, Justin King (Ashley) and Michael Moran; and one sister, Sandy Paisley (Arnold) of Lewes, Del. Friends and family may visit from 2 to 4 p.m. on Friday, April 30 at the Edward L. Collins, Jr. Funeral Home, Inc. at 86 Pine St. in Oxford. Services and interment are private. In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory may be made to Compassionate Care, 20165 Office Circle, Georgetown, DE 19947. Arrangements are being handled by the Edward L. Collins, Jr. Funeral Home, Inc. in Oxford. Online condolences may be made at www.elcollinsfuneralhome.com.
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4B
CHESTER COUNTY PRESS
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 28, 2021
Chester County Press
Local News Andrew Wyeth model and confidante releases book about elusive artist A book signing will take place on Wednesday, May 5 at Barbara Moore Fine Art Artist Andrew Wyeth’s model and confidante Helen Sipala has released a book written from diaries she kept of conversations with the famous American artist. The book, Beyond the Marriage Bed: My Years as Friend, Model and Confidante of Andrew Wyeth, was published this month by Regent Press of Berkeley, Cal. Beyond the Marriage Bed is an intimate look at Andrew Wyeth the artist and the man, and his close relationship with Helen Sipala, model and confidante. The book gives a rare glimpse into the world of a true and talented artist through Helen’s 20-year diary. Wyeth didn’t want his life “sugar-coated” and Helen didn’t do so. An Amazon review stated, “The book dives into the
good, the bad and the ugly. It reveals a heartfelt personal account of friendship, wealth, love, folly, infatuation, heartache, hardship and tearful moments among the buttercups. An eye opener and page turner!” A book signing will take place on Wednesday, May 5 from 6 p.m. until 8 p.m. at Barbara Moore Fine Art, in the Chadds Ford Village and Barn Shops, 1609 Baltimore Pike, Suite 400 A, Chadds Ford. The cost of the 200page book is $29.95 The book can be obtained from Barbara Moore Fine Art, the Regent Press, http://www. regentpress.net/, or other social media book sites. In March of 1989, Helen and George Sipala met Wyeth after they purchased the Chadds Ford home known as Painter’s Folly.
Renowned artist Howard Pyle used the home to teach art students, including Wyeth’s father, N. C. Wyeth. During the years, Andrew Wyeth visited Helen and George regularly, sharing meals. The trio became close friends. A sought-after Christmas invitation was Wyeth holiday parties hosted by Helen and George Sipala. During their years of friendship, Andrew shared many private thoughts with Helen. Helen also observed Wyeth, an American master painter, as he created many of his masterpieces. Andrew invited the couple to major national and local art events. The couple’s home, especially the Widow’s Walk, was treated as a studio by Wyeth. “Over the years, he stated several times that he hoped I
‘was writing all this down.’ You will see by my notes when this happened I never responded to him. It was a known fact Andy preferred that writers not make his stories ‘sweet’ but to ‘put an edge to it,’” as Helen wrote in her introduction. The dedication to Wyeth captures the sense of the book, “Yes Andy, I did write it down just as you ‘hoped’ I would. I think you would be proud that the world now knows the REAL Andy: sensitive, generous, compassionate, comical, humble and a true gentleman!” Helen worked with Chester County author Bruce E. Mowday on the manuscript and editing of the diary. Courtesy photo
Beyond the Marriage Bed is an intimate look at Andrew Wyeth the artist and the man and his close relationship with Helen Sipala, model and confidante.
Legals INVITATION TO BID
Southern Chester County School Districts are soliciting a bid for Milk & Beverage items. Bid documents will be available online Wednesday, April 14, 2021 at: https://www.avongrove.org/ departments/food-services Bidding will end at 10:00 a.m. Wednesday, May 12, 2021. Bids should be forwarded by this date/time to: Avon Grove School District Office, Attn: Elizabeth Julian, 375 S. Jennersville
Road, West Grove, PA 19390. Bids received by the deadline will be publicly reviewed on Wednesday, May 12, 2021 at the Avon Grove Intermediate School, 395 S. Jennersville Road, West Grove, PA 19390. Elizabeth Julian, Avon Grove School District 4p-14-3t
ESTATE NOTICE
ESTATE OF Joan E. Mackin late of Penn Township, Chester County, Deceased. Letters Testamentary on
the estate of the above named Joan E. Mackin 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: R. Scott Mackin, Executor, c/o Attorney:Winifred Moran Sebastian, Esquire, 208 E. Locust Street Address: 208 E. Locust St., P.O. Box 38, Oxford, PA 19363 Phone: 610-932-3838 4p-21-3t
ESTATE NOTICE
ESTATE OF Norita R. Timoney aka Norita Rose Timoney, Timoney, Norita R. aka Timoney, Norita Rose late of West Grove, PA. ., Deceased. Letters Testamentary on the estate of the above named 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 Gregory P. Timoney, c/o Alfred Rauch, III, Esq., Black & Gerngross, P.C., 1617 JFK Blvd., Suite 1575, Philadelphia, PA 19103, Executor. Black & Gerngross, P.C., 1617 JFK Blvd., Suite 1575, Philadelphia, PA 19103
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4p-21-3t Chapter 71 of the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental ProtecFICTITIOUS NAME REG- tion (PADEP) Rules and Regulations requires that public notice be given ISTRATION An application for registration of the to allow the general public to provide fictitious Cosmetic Ink by Christina, comments regarding a proposed 3242 Krista Ln, Chester Springs, PA sewage disposal system to serve the 19425 has been filed in the Department Lynch Property at 200 East Avondale of State at Harrisburg, PA, File Date Road, West Grove, PA. The property 3/24/21 pursuant to the Fictitious Names is an existing single-family residence Act, Act 1982-295. The name and ad- situated on 0.66 acres located at the dress of the person who is a party to the southeastern corner of the intersection registration is Christina DeCristo, 3242 of East Avondale Road and Route 841 Krista Ln, Chester Springs, PA 19425. in London Grove Township, Chester 4p-28-1t County. The owners propose to meet the sewage disposal needs of this NOTICE OF property by installing a small flow treatRESCHEDULED PUBLIC ment facility with stream discharge in accordance with PADEP regulations. MEETING A 30 day comment period has been The Penn Township Regular Public established to allow the general public Meeting scheduled for 6:00 p.m. on to comment on the proposed plan. Wednesday, May 5, 2021 has been canThe documents can be reviewed at celled and is rescheduled for Wednesthe township building. Please address day, May 19, 2021 at 6:00 p.m. at the any comments to: London Grove TownPenn Township Municipal Building, ship, 372 Rose Hill Road, West Grove, Finnen Community Room, 260 Lewis PA 19390 Road, West Grove, PA. 4p-28-1t Please refer any questions or requests for special accommodation to Caitlin Sheriff Sale Ianni, Township Secretary at 610of Real Estate 869-9620. 4p-28-1t By virtue of the within mentioned writs directed to Sheriff Fredda L. Maddox, the herein-described real estate will PUBLIC NOTICE be sold at public sale in the Chester County Justice Center at 201 W Market Street, 3rd Floor, Room 3300, West Chester, Pennsylvania, as announced on Thursday, May 20th, 2021 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 21st, 2021. Distribution
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will be made in accordance with the Schedules unless exceptions are filed in the Sheriff’s Office within ten (10) days thereafter. SALE NO. 21-5-52 Writ of Execution No. 2017-01543 DEBT $56,691.49 ALL THAT CERTAIN lot or parcel of land situated in the Township of Franklin, County of Chester, Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, being more fully described in Deed dated October 10, 2000 and recorded in the Office of the Chester County Recorder of Deeds on October 11, 2000, in Deed Book Volume 4833 at Page 1715. Tax Parcel No. 72-5-34.1 PLAINTIFF: U.S. Bank TrustNational Association, as Trustee of Dwelling Series IV Trust VS DEFENDANT: Rudy D. Arnold SALE ADDRESS:1833 New London Road, Landenberg, PA 19350 PLAINTIFF ATTORNEY: HLADIK, ONORATO & FEDERMAN, LLP 215855-9521 N.B. Ten percent (10%) of the purchase money must be paid at the time and place of sale. Payment must be paid in cash, certified check, or money order made payable to the purchaser or “Sheriff of Chester County”. The balance must be made payable to “Sheriff of Chester County” within twenty-one (21) days from the date of sale by 4PM. FREDDA L. MADDOX, SHERIFF 4p-28-3t
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WEDNESDAY, APRIL 28, 2021
CHESTER COUNTY PRESS
5B
Chester County Press
Local News Gannon named CEO of LCH Health and Community Services LCH Health and Community Services announced that Ronan W. Gannon will be its new Chief Executive Officer starting next month. “We are thrilled to have Ronan lead the LCH team,” said Pia McCann, LCH Board Chair. “Ronan’s passion and expertise in health equity, and his genuineness and kindness are exactly what LCH needs to continue to be the leading provider of integrated health and community services for all.” Gannon has been connected with LCH as a board member since 2015. “I am honored and excit-
ed to become part of the LCH team,” Gannon said. “LCH is a wonderful organization with a rich history and a strong commitment to its people, its community and to providing the best possible health care and community services.” Gannon will oversee LCH’s mission to serve the community with integrated, high quality, person-centered care at LCH’s three locations: health centers in Kennett Square and Oxford and a specialty services site in West Grove that hosts LCH’s pediatrics, women’s health services, and dental care. LCH’s staff of over 90 employees provides care
for more than 8,000 people each year. Gannon’s career has included both strategic and operational roles in primary care, pediatrics, public health, and vaccine development in both large and small organizations. Most recently, he served as chief commercial officer at EryDel Biotech. He holds a bachelor of arts degree from the University of Richmond, an MBA from Northeastern University, and is an alumnus of Harvard Business School’s General Management Program. He and his wife are long-time residents of Courtesy photo Ronan W. Gannon pictured at the LCH health center in Kennett Square. Kennett Square.
Claire Mooney appointed to Chester County Workforce Development Board Brandywine Hospital announced that Claire Mooney, the president and chief executive officer at both Brandywine Hospital and Jennersville Hospital, has been appointed to serve on the Chester County Workforce Development Board. She has been appointed for a two-year term. The mission of the Chester County Workforce Development Board is “to serve as the local entity, responsible for the strategic planning and
promotion of an effective workforce development system in Chester County, that responds to the regional labor market needs.” The Workforce Development board members are appointed by the Chester County Commissioners. “We are very happy to have Claire on the board,” said Pat Bokovitz, director of the Chester County Department of Community Development. “Claire sharing her knowledge and expertise of the health care
industry is a tremendous value to the board.” In addition to serving on the board, Claire also serves as the Chair of the Health Care Connect Industry Partnership. Health Care Connect advocates for the advancement of the health care industry through training, outreach, and other industry strategies to help recruitment and retention of health care workers. “It is so important to the future of health care in our community that there is a steady stream of
qualified health care workers in Chester County for many years to come,” said Mooney. “It is my great pleasure to serve on the Chester County Workforce Development board.”
Courtesy photo
Claire Mooney, the president and chief executive officer at both Brandywine Hospital and Jennersville Hospital, has been appointed to serve on the Chester County Workforce Development Board.
6B
CHESTER COUNTY PRESS
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 28, 2021
Chester County Press
Local News Pa. traffic citations record drop in 2020 Overall traffic citations in Pennsylvania decreased by 33 percent in 2020 during the pandemic compared to 2019. Specifically, distracted-driving citations decreased by 47 percent statewide from 2019 to 2020. Distracted-driving citations in Pennsylvania can be issued for 1) using headphones while driving, 2) using a handheld mobile phone while driving a commercial vehicle or 3) texting while driving. Texting includes sending, reading or writing a text-based message.
Jakatt named the CCIU’s Citadel Heart of Learning finalist Traditionally, when we think of heroes, those that come to mind fly around in capes, defeat supervillains and save entire cities from destruction. These comic book heroes are fun and inspiring, but as our current situation has undoubtedly shown, the real-life heroes of today are the ones putting on medical scrubs, working at the grocery store and teaching our children day after day, regardless of any personal and professional challenges. This year, more than ever, Citadel, in partnership with the Chester County Intermediate Unit (CCIU), celebrate all of the hardworking heroes for not only making futures brighter for their students but for being flexible and dedicated to overcoming the many challenges they’ve faced. The CCIU announced that Jessica Jakatt, an emotional support teacher at the CCIU Learning Center, as one of 15 outstanding Chester County educators selected as a finalist in the 2021 Citadel Heart of Learning Awards. This year, over 1,400 nominations were submitted for more than 1,100 teachers. “I’ve never really envisioned being nominated for this award, so to be recognized as a finalist is so humbling to me,” said Jakatt, who is celebrating her twelfth year in the classroom. “I work alongside many dedicated educators at the CCIU,
and I am flattered to be recognized for this achievement.” Jakatt started her career teaching English and language arts and then moved into special education. She has spent the past two years working at the CCIU Learning Center in Coatesville. “Jess is an outstanding educator who is passionate about helping students succeed,” said Dr. Chamise S. Taylor, principal of the CCIU Learning Center. “Despite the multitude of challenges that we all faced during this unprecedented pandemic, Jess never once complained and always asked what more she could do to help.” “Jess is the ultimate team player who is actively engaged in all aspects of the CCIU Learning Center community,” said Sam Ewing, the CCIU director of student services. “Her student-centered approach to learning has helped keep her students engaged and connected despite the challenges of the pandemic. One of Jessica’s greatest strengths is her ability to cultivate relationships with her students, which has helped build a classroom environment where they feel comfortable taking risks to enhance their learning.” The Citadel Heart of Learning Award, which is a collaboration between Citadel and the CCIU, is designed to recognize and thank teachers in Chester County. New to 2021, teachers from sur-
Courtesy photo
Jessica Jakatt has been named a Citadel Heart of Learning finalist this year.
rounding counties including Delaware, Montgomery, Bucks, Lancaster and Philadelphia will be honored as well. It raises awareness of the impact that their hard work and dedication have on their students, the students’ families and on the entire community. Since its inception, thousands of teachers have been nominated and hundreds have been named finalists. According to Jakatt, one of her main goals is to establish a community within the classroom. “Setting a positive tone in our environment is the key to our successes. Developing a safe, respectful place for students and staff has always been a priority in my classroom,” she explained. Each finalist receives $500 to use in his or her classroom. From the finalists, the three Chester County grand prize winners (one high school, one middle school and one elementary school teacher) will be awarded with the Citadel Heart of Learning Award and an additional $2,000.
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We are also having an online Job Fair May 4, 2021 from 4:30pm-6:30pm. To apply or receive login information for the Job Fair, please call Nancy Elliott-Haskins, 610-384-7711 Ext 6012 or send resume and/or questions to vhacoanursingcareers@va.gov While meeting the needs of our patients is our top priority, we offer flexibility in scheduling to make sure you can take care of your top priorities too. And yes, it really is as good as it sounds.