Chester County Press 06-05-2024 Edition

Oxford Borough Council discusses height restrictions for cluster developments

By Betsy Brewer Brantner Contributing Writer

Oxford Borough Council discussed height restrictions in the PD-1 zoning district at their recent meeting. A proposed zoning amendment to change the height from 25 feet to 35 feet for a defined cluster development was reviewed, specifically for the Moran Farm Development.

Borough Solicitor Stacey Fuller explained that the Frost Development, also known as the Moran Farm, was before council to discuss a change in height.

Fuller said, “The applicant has two options to go to the Zoning Hearing Board or to amend the PD-1 ordinance to change the height regulation to 35 feet. I suggested it would be appropriate to have the developer here tonight to discuss whether

council is willing to give us a consensus on what they would require.”

The developer’s attorney, Debra Shulski, said, “Sycamore Crossing, which is also a cluster development was approved for 35 feet building height and they are adjacent to this development. I’m not sure how that happened. We can only suspect it was possibly a typo.”

After a lengthy discussion,

it was suggested that Frost Developers notify all residents in the PD-1 zone, and pay for those notifications.

In other business, Oxford Police Chief Sam Iacono asked for prayers for a police officer’s family that lost a member in a fire.

The chief also informed council that all officers passed their firearms test.

A new police vehicle is being outfitted and will hit the streets in three to four

weeks.

Iacono informed the council and public that if a police officer is needed, you must call 911.

“We do not dispatch from our station,” he said. “It is a county policy. We don’t have dispatching capabilities. 911 also knows where our police officers are located. The county watches the police 24/7.”

Borough Manager Pauline Garcia-Allen informed

council that a smaller group of experts are working with the borough solicitor on the Subdivision and Land Development Ordinance.

“There has been a lot of back and forth. We will have a joint work session in June where we will review proposed amendments. We will also have an open house for the public so they can look at key changes,” she said.

Borough Council votes to move community grocer’s ideas forward

By Richard L. Gaw Staff Writer

The six-year journey to open a cooperative grocery store in Kennett Square Borough moved one step closer to an eventual reality on Monday evening. By a unanimous vote on June 3, the Kennett Square Borough Council voted in favor of placing a letter of intent from Kennett Community Grocer on

its June 5 consent agenda, following a 45-minute presentation by Kennett Community Grocer Board President Edie Burkey and a back-and-forth conversation between owner-members of the proposed cooperative and council members. The intention of the organization is to eventually occupy 7,000 square feet of space on the first

St. Christopher’s Episcopal Church seeking help for the homeless

By Betsy Brewer Brantner Contributing Writer

If there can be a silver lining to the devastating fire in Oxford that left over 90 people homeless last September, it is that the fire clearly magnified the borough's need for affordable housing.

Pastor Mary Ann Mertz of

St. Christoper’s Episcopal Church has studied this problem for many years, and she is focused on helping those in the community that are acutely aware of the need for affordable housing.

Homelessness is a problem all over the country, and finding a solution to this problem would benefit everyone, not just those

who are homeless. It is not a stretch to say that homelessness affects health care, criminal justice, emergency systems and education.

Imagine what your life would be like with no home; pause and imagine having no place to come home to and rest after a day of work. In Oxford, on one tragic evening last September, a devastating

fire made that a reality for 90 people in town.

For many in the Borough of Oxford, the threat of fire is still evident, even eight months later. There are more than gaping holes on South Third Street to show how quick a life can change. There is still a hole in the soul of the community.

“If it weren’t for the two

Clover Market brings diversity of makers to Kennett Square

By Richard L. Gaw Staff Writer

For six hours along the 600 block of South Broad Street in Kennett Square last Sunday, the blue skies and temperate late Spring breezes served in perfect harmony with the symbiotic connection between the nearly 100 participating artisans and hundreds of visitors who flocked to the most recent Clover Market event on June 2.

Held in collaboration with Kennett Collaborative and the Borough of

police officers who went door to door that night waking up sleeping families, it would have been so much worse,” Mertz said. “Like everyone in the community, we wanted to help in any way possible. We saw firsthand the helpless looks on the faces of those that had lost everything.” Trying to find homes Popular artisan show returning to

Kennett Square, the market showcased row upon row of handmade jewelry, textiles, clothing and pottery created by artisans from Chester County and beyond, as well as collections from several vintage

Continued on Page 2A

Cecil County Life

Photo by Chris Barber

The Oxford Area High School Class of 2024 stands before the Air Force ROTC during the Pledge of Allegiance at the school’s commencement on May 31. For a complete story and additional photographs, see Page 1B.

Photo by Richard L. Gaw Alka Mattoo and Sebastian Knocurat of Orvana in Princeton, N.J. were among the nearly 100 vendors who showcased their work at the Clover Market show in Kennett Square on June 2.

Chester

Local News

Oxford...

Continued from Page 1A

She also recommended those in attendance to visit the borough's redesigned website.

In other business, the following motions were approved by council:

• Acceptance of the 30-day extension which will run through and include the date June 26, 2024, for

Clover Market...

Continued from Page 1A

antique dealers. The event also included a line of food vendors, as well as fresh lemonade, beer from Braeloch Brewery and wine from Grace Winery.

Many artisans at the event praised Clover Market founder Janet Long for her skill at curating Clover Market shows that draw from a wide range of products and talents.

Krystal Osmond from Krystal Osmond Designs in Levittown, Pa. -- who has also showcased her work at Clover Market events in Bryn Mawr, Pa and Collingwood, N.J. –said that she enjoys the diversity of vendors that Long brings to each event.

“I think Janet puts together an amazing assortment of vendors,” she said. “I don’t even want to be in my booth now, because I would like to see the work of so many other vendors. It always brings out a great crowd, and the Kennett Square event has always been among the most well attended.”

For Alka Mattoo of Orvana in Princeton, N.J., a clothing designer and self-professed “lover of fabric,” the June 2 event was her second appearance in Kennett Square.

“The most important aspect about Clover Market has always been the community of arti-

Help for Homeless...

Continued from Page 1A for the displaced residents became an entirely different challenge. Those residents were not only out in the cold, they were facing the high cost of housing in today’s world. Housing was found, but the high cost of that is still being dealt with. Sadly, it is not just the cost of rent that is daunting, but the process and requirements. Most landlords require a rental history of five years, a criminal back-

review of Enox Land LP’s preliminary land development plan of the Moran Farms Property;

• Approval of a resolution designating as blighted property and authorizing the filing of a petition for conservatorship for the property located at 343 S. Street;

• Initiation of the Civil Service Test process, to take place in the summer and

sans that Janet has drawn together, and they contribute to the energy of what Clover Market has come to be known for,” she said. “I have done other artisan markets, and they don’t have the soul that this one does, and it has to do with its organizers.

“They are themselves patrons, and that passion transcends to those who are subscribing to it. This is a community of makers, and we ourselves are connecting to the Kennett Square community.”

Upcoming Clover Market shows will be held at Chestnut Hill, Pa. on Sept. 8, Collingswood, N.J. on Sept. 22, Bryn Mawr, Pa. on Oct. 6 and Kennett Square on Oct. 20.

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

fall of 2024, to compile a full-time police officer eligibility list;

• Approval of a Flickerwood Wine Cellars special event permit application for the Flickerwood Vintage Wine & Music Festival on June 29;

• The Sycamore Crossing escrow release for Phase 5B, Request No. 6, in the amount of $160,881.18;

• Authorization to pro-

ceed with issuance of bid documents for the Hodgson & Eighth Street Repaving Project;

• The HARB Certificate of Appropriateness requests for 320 Market Street, 48 Western Terrace, and 25 South 4th Street.

Council member Bob Ketcham had a PowerPoint presentation on a Natural History Magazine article titled, “Chesapeake Bay a

ground check, three months of rent, and a weekly pay the amount of the monthly rent. Sounds reasonable right? The average cost of rent in Chester County is about $1596 per month for a one bedroom home. Minimum wage in the state of Pennsylvania is $7.25 an hour. So if you do the math you would have to make $40 an hour to produce the income required by many landlords. Now add child care, transportation costs, payroll taxes—the overwhelming challenges facing people are obvious.

Fortunately, St. Christopher’s Episcopal Church has been working on transitional housing, which would be a beginning.

“The Episcopal church is an inclusive and open church,” Mertz said. “Our theology is more open in receiving LGBTQ, same sex marriage and divorce and remarried persons. A lot of people coming from other denominations often end up in the Episcopal Church. We make sure marginalized people have a place of belonging where they feel safe.”

Mertz and the members of the church have been looking at how they can help the

Restoration Blueprint,” and he discussed how it connected to the borough’s MS4 reduction plan.

During the public comment period, a local resident told council that she and her husband and four other couples were being evicted from their apartments. She outlined steps she had made thus far, but stated that she is having difficulty finding another place to live.

“We can’t afford the cost of rent people are now charging for apartments,” she said. She gave council her name in the event that anyone knew of affordable apartments. Council vice president Bill Fitzpatrick announced that it was National Public Works Week. He thanked the public works department in Oxford for all they do.

community. Recently, they applied for and received a grant from the Pennsylvania Crime and Delinquency Commission, with the help of State Senator Carolyn Comitta, in the amount of $150,000.

“Senator Comitta alerted us that a grant was available. It is for safety and security for non-profits, to secure your space so the minister and congregation will be safe,” Mertz said.

“We are constructing our first entry space to be a gathering space that will be equipped with an acoustical audio loop for the hearing impaired. People can have meetings there but it will

also double as a security measure to keep us away from those wishing to do us harm.”

She added, “This will be open to the community itself, not just for our parishioners. We are planning to turn back a portion of our lawn into a meadow where we can teach people about nature.

Mertz said that they also plan to build a columbarium and a labyrinth where people can walk.

“We want a real engagement with the community and are opening each part of the church grounds for community use,” she said. “The house that currently sits there hasn’t been used for 20 years. That is where we plan to have the transitional housing, not a homeless shelter, but a place for people to live while they are transitioning into housing.

“We don’t have members that can run it, so we are hoping that a group like the Good Samaritan will be able to do that.”

Mertz explained that that

group empowers people to move from a housing crisis to stability. Their mission is to respond with compassion to the challenges of poverty-related needs across Lancaster and Chester counties. They take a personalized approach to empower individuals and families to prevent or overcome homelessness.

“We invited the community to give us input on what they thought the needs were in the community,” she explained. “That is where the idea for transitional housing blossomed. Families would stay in the house while working toward their own home. We are hopeful we can find the group that will run that for us.”

The church is currently working with an architect to reconfigure their office building to be used by the community in some capacity. They are seeking a partner that could utilize that space as well.

“This is a work in progress,” Mertz said. “We are not there yet, but we are working hard to find someone interested in running a transitional housing program. I don’t think anyone would argue that affordable housing is needed. We are waiting to see what the next step is for us. I invite people to call us for more information or to be a part of this. My phone number is 502489-1337. I hope you call.”

The Clover Market featured handmade pottery, clothing, jewelry and products for the home.

Karen Coston of Karen Coston Jewelry in Baltimore assists a new customer with a fitting at the Clover Market show, held on June 2 in Kennett Square.

Alex and Ruth Hogue of Kennett Square enjoyed the market with their children.

Kelly Roche of Ellesea Shoppes in Haddon Heights, N.J. displayed her handwoven pillows.

Brooke Marble and Kristine Castoria enjoyed glasses of wine from Grace Winery.

Photos by Richard L. Gaw

The Clover Market also showcased the vintage collections of several antique dealers.

floor of the Kennett Square Borough Building at 600 South Broad Street, where it will provide accessible, affordable,

and natural foods to the entire Kennett Square community and surrounding areas; use sustainable practices to promote healthy lifestyles; serve as an educational hub and resource center; and offer affordable and subsidized grocery options for lower-income individuals and families.

If the lease arrangement with the borough is ultimately accepted, Kennett Community Grocer would sign a 10-year lease with the borough – with an additional 10-year option -- to operate the store at a rate of $17 per square foot.

Burkey said that the community-owned food co-op – first conceptualized in 2018 – currently has a 12-member board and 374 member-owners and is one of 94 food co-ops in development across the U.S., all of which are being mentored by the Food Co-op Initiative.

“We will be good tenants and we are not just developing our financial Performa out of the blue,” said Burkey, who was supported by more than one dozen memberowners in the audience. “It was developed with a lot of thought and mentoring by the Food Co-Op Initiative. Of the top 12 food co-ops that are emerging, we are identified in the top 10 of those who are projected to be sustainable.

“We meet the benchmarks

of sales and cash flow forecasting for emerging food co-ops.”

Affordable options

Burkey said that a sales analysis conducted on Kennett Community Grocer two years ago projected that the grocer will create $2.5 million in income during its first year. Comparatively, she said that a 3,000 squarefoot co-op in Philadelphia is recording $3 million in sales a year.

The co-op’s business plan in the immediate future, Burkey said, will be to seek grants and pursue fundraising with the Chester County Community Economic Development Corporation. At the same time, it is working with an architect who is creating an artistic rendering of the proposed space and is looking to hire a fulltime general manager, who will establish partnerships with local farmers and vendors throughout Chester and Lancaster counties.

Burkey said the emphasis for the proposed co-op will be on providing local and sustainably grown food and keeping food prices in check to accommodate the entire community.

“We will not be charging farm market prices,” she said. “We will be putting a lot of effort into the wholesale market in order to make [shopping at Kennett Community Grocer] affordable. For those individuals who have struggled to buy groceries, they will be able to [purchase items] with their SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) benefits.

“We will also be conducting on-going fundraising for Food for All Program, a deep-discount program for those who do not qualify for SNAP benefits but are living at 200 percent or below the poverty line.”

The projected timeline for the opening of the co-op was answered by Colis Townsend, who along with Luis Tovar is representing Kennett Community Grocer as a realtor. He said that the opening will occur after the borough completes infrastructure improvements in the building, such as abatement of asbestos.

“Once those things are all provided, that’s when our term will begin, and we will probably open within a year after that,” Townsend said. While he said that the

borough has “struggled” to attract commercial tenants in the Borough Building, Council President Bob Norris said that the borough is not able and willing to spend a lot of money to refurbish the building and fitting out space for a particular user. He said a few months ago, the majority of the council said they preferred to dedicate more of the building space to community use rather than commercial use.

‘This incredible place right in our backyards’

While a few of those in the audience expressed their skepticism about the proposed grocer establishing a business as a tenant of the borough – as well as the

logistics of how the borough would maneuver through unexpected problems that could arise in their role as a landlord -- a wide majority said they supported the concept of bringing a cooperative grocery store to a borough that will be within walking distance of many residents.

“What a wonderful thing it will be for those residents who don’t have transportation and have to ride their bikes or walk on major roads to get to Giant or up to Walmart,” said former council member Peter Waterkotte.

“I think it’s going to benefit the residents who don’t have transportation access to be able to safely walk to a grocer to buy their groceries. It’s a nice thing to keep in mind for the large number

of people who don’t have transportation.”

Borough resident Patrick McKenna expressed his support of Kennett Community Grocer, comparing its concept to the building of the Kennett Library.

“We took a chance on the library, and now it’s here, and it’s amazing what an asset it is for the wired community, and every single day I feel fortunate that I live in the borough, and I can walk to it any time I want,” he said. “The grocery will become another pillar of the community, and we will be able to walk to this incredible place right in our backyards.”

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

Photo by Richard L. Gaw Kennett Community Grocer Board President Edie Burkey spoke before the Kennett Square Borough Council at

Avon Grove appoints new high school assistant principal

The Avon Grove School Board approved the appointment of a new assistant principal at Avon Grove High School on May 23.

Anton Ocepek will be filling the vacancy left by Angie Houghton, who is retiring at the end of this school year after serving in the district since 2001.

Ocepek has served as a physics and chemistry teacher at the Downingtown STEM Academy and Central Bucks West High School, where he gained extensive

experience in co-teaching, hybrid learning, and cyber instruction. During his tenure, he held leadership roles as a tenth grade team leader, curriculum developer, and workshop facilitator, where he spearheaded initiatives to enhance student success, align curricula with state standards, and foster professional development for staff.

Ocepek was the recipient of the prestigious 2023 DuPont Excellence in Teaching Award, which

recognizes extraordinary teaching skills, effective communication of STEM inquiry and learning, and a talent for motivating and supporting students.

Beyond the classroom, Ocepek has demonstrated exceptional leadership in science research, serving as the science fair director for multiple elementary schools and coordinating student participation in regional and state-level science fairs. He has forged invaluable community

partnerships, securing mentorships and research opportunities for students with local universities and industry professionals.

At the board meeting, Ocepek shared his enthusiasm for joining the Avon Grove School District.

“I am very excited to start working with the students next year and look forward to collaborating with the faculty and staff as well,” he said.

Ocepek will begin his new position on July 1.

Avon Grove School District celebrates success of annual art show

The Avon Grove School District (AGSD) hosted its annual Art Show on May 28 and 29, showcasing a diverse selection of student

dergarten to grade 12. This district-wide celebration of creativity and talent showcased an impressive array of student creations, including paintings, drawings, sculp-

tures, digital art, and mixed media pieces, highlighting the artistic skills, dedication, and passion of our young artists.

Attendees experienced engaging live demonstrations of wheel throwing and painting by Avon Grove High School (AGHS) students, offering unique insights into the artistic processes and techniques. The event was further enhanced by live musical performances from AGHS string seniors on viola and cello, providing a harmonious backdrop to the exhibit. A notable feature of this year’s Art Show was the innovative use of QR code

displays, allowing attendees to interact with the artwork on a deeper level. Visitors could engage visually with the pieces while listening to detailed information about the creation processes and underlying concepts. This fusion of technology and art provided a more immersive experience for all attendees.

Kara Mercer, an AGHS art teacher, emphasized the significance of the event.

“The District Art Show reveals a glimpse of student learning and progress throughout our K-12 program,” she said. “Exhibiting our hard-working students and their beautiful works allows us, as teachers, to

create environments where students are proud, positive, and present.” The success of the Art Show was due to the collective efforts of our students,

staff, volunteers, and the supportive community. Their dedication ensured that the event was a memorable and enriching experience for all who attended.

Courtesy photo

Anton Ocepek has been appointed assistant principal at Avon Grove High School.

artwork from kin-

Courtesy photos

Avon Grove High School students demonstrated ceramic skills live for district art show guests.

Avon Grove School District students’ artwork displayed at the annual Art Show.

Keeping southern Chester County strong

The work of the United Way of Southern Chester County has played a part in helping to keep the communities in this area strong.

At the annual meeting in mid-May, the United Way of Southern Chester County recently announced that it was allocating $750,000 to 28 different programs that are provided by 21 nonprofit agencies.

The nonprofit organizations that receive support from the United Way of Southern Chester County are on the front lines when it comes to helping local residents in times of need. The United Way of Southern Chester County focuses its allocations on crisis intervention efforts, programs that help people transition to independence through education, and family stability and health programs.

One contribution to the United Way of Southern Chester County is a great way to help your neighbors in need. There are a variety of methods for giving, whether through your employer or by making a onetime contribution online, and more information is available on the website at unitedwayscc.org.

Oxford event celebrates its 10th year

When Oxford Mainstreet, Inc. organized its first car show 10 years ago, it quickly became one of the most popular events in Oxford.

The event is now called the Oxford Car and Bike Show, and the 10th annual show will take place on Friday, Sept. 6 from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. Registration is now open for the car show. All years, makes and models of cars, trucks and bikes are eligible for the show.

We hope that Oxford gets a big turnout and good weather for this event.

A decade of helping students excel academically

Just as Oxford’s car show is celebrating its 10th anniversary, Cecil College is celebrating the 10th anniversary of its Early College Academy, where high school students graduate with an associate degree in general studies weeks before they earn their high school diplomas.

Oxford students have benefitted from this program—the pilot program was launched in partnership with the Oxford Area School District back in 2014.

This year’s class of Oxford graduates who took part in the Early College Academy recently walked across the Cecil College stage during the 2024 commencement to accept their degrees.

Concurrent high school and community college learning has become popular nationally, and this kind of dual enrollment has helped students immensely.

The Early College Academy is a pathway to shortening the higher education process, which reduces the costs for students and their families. This kind of program also prepares students for a college environment at an earlier age and offers numerous other opportunities and benefits for students. Academic studies has generally found that dual-enrollment students perform better academically, both in high school and in college and require less remedial work.

Preparing the next generation for their lives after high school is also an important part of keeping southern Chester County strong, and we applaud this program and others like it that are available to local students.

Historic tax cuts for all Pennsylvanians

By State Rep. Tim O’Neal

For the people across Pennsylvania, the past few years have been filled with economic uncertainty and soaring costs. Inflation has run rampant. Families and seniors have watched grocery bills multiply, energy costs skyrocket, and home prices and rent continue to go through the roof.

And through it all, what can you say your government has done to help you?

President Joe Biden and Gov. Josh Shapiro certainly have their ideas. Essentially, they say the government needs more of your money so that they can decide how to spend your tax dollars to best help you. How is that going?

Pennsylvania’s bank account is already flush. In fact, the Commonwealth is projected to have a budget

surplus of over $14 billion.

Gov. Shapiro’s response to this is to spend away on more government programs and wasted bureaucratic bloat. In fact, Gov. Shapiro’s budget proposal calls for outrageous spending increases that would set Pennsylvania on a path towards massive tax hikes in just a few years.

Year after year, Pennsylvania increases its budgetary spending by record amounts. Just since I was elected to office in 2018, Pennsylvania has increased spending by nearly $13 billion or 40 percent. Could the average person tell you how Pennsylvania’s now nearly $50 billion in spending each year is directly making their lives better?

It’s time we throw out the notion that the only way to improve people’s lives is to take more of their money and spend it. Why not invest

in working families rather than government? Let’s get out of people’s wallets and let them keep more of their hard-earned money.

Now is the time to pass historic tax cuts for all Pennsylvanians.

The good news is we have already taken the first step.

Recently, the state Senate overwhelmingly passed bipartisan legislation to reduce the Personal Income Tax and eliminate a burdensome tax on electricity bills. House Republicans have come out in strong support by quickly moving to introduce identical legislation and calling on House Democrats to act.

We are not talking about tax breaks for just a privileged few or for massive corporations. This plan would mean more money in every single Pennsylvanian’s paycheck and would immediately

Social Security Matters

reduce electricity bills for every single consumer.

Think about what even a small boost in a working mom’s take-home pay would mean for her family or what a 10 percent reduction in an electricity bill would mean for a retired couple.

Harrisburg politicians need to stop worrying about increasing government revenue and spending it all on big plans of which no one has even heard. We have a chance to act now and immediately change the lives of every single Pennsylvanian. Let’s invest in the people of Pennsylvania rather than the government. Pass tax cuts now.

State Rep. Tim O’Neal represents the 48th Legislative District in Washington County and serves as the Republican Whip.

Future retiree worried about Social Security’s future

By Russell Gloor

Dear Rusty: I keep reading that the SSA will only be able to pay out 75 percent of benefits come 2033. If Congress were to do nothing and this reduction in benefits occurred, would seniors already collecting benefits in 2033 have their benefits reduced or would it only be those who have not begun to collect have their future benefits reduced?

I will be collecting my benefits no later than 2027 but my wife will not reach full retirement age until 2033 and we are looking for information on whether we need to adjust savings now to account for mine or my wife’s possible reduction in benefits. Signed: Worried Senior

Dear Worried Senior: If Congress does nothing to prevent Social Security’s reserves from depletion, Social Security – by law – will only be able to pay out benefits equal to

income, which is estimated to be about 23 to 25 percent short of what will be needed to pay full benefits starting in 2033. That would mean everyone who is already receiving monthly Social Security benefits would get a payment 23 to 25 percent less than they were previously receiving. And without reform, new beneficiaries would get benefits similarly reduced.

The action needed to prevent those cuts from happening resides with Congress, and any program reform they enact would likely only affect those who are not yet collecting. Whether or how that would affect you and your wife as future Social Security beneficiaries depends on the scope of reform Congress will enact which, of course, is not yet known. That uncertainty, itself, is reason enough to bolster your savings for your future retirement.

The probability of Congress allowing the Trust Funds to be depleted, thus necessitat-

ing an across-the-board cut in everyone’s benefit is, in my opinion, slim (it would be political suicide). Congress already knows how to fix Social Security’s financial woes – they just currently lack the bipartisanship and political fortitude to do so.

And it’s doubtful any Social Security reform will happen this election year – rather, the opposing sides will likely just sling accusations at each other in 2024.

But rest assured that both sides of Congress are acutely aware that reform of the Social Security program is needed soon, and we are already seeing signs that progress on reform may be forthcoming (but not until after the 2024 elections).

Congress is notorious for waiting until the last possible moment to act, and I don’t suggest you alter your Social Security claiming strategy based on the unknown but building a bigger nest egg for retirement is always a prudent goal. Also, calling your congressional representative

to endorse needed Social Security reform which ensures your future benefits will not be cut would be a good move.

Russell Gloor is a National Social Security Advisor at the AMAC Foundation, the non-profit arm of the Association of Mature American Citizens.

This article is intended for information purposes only and does not represent legal or financial guidance. It presents the opinions and interpretations of the AMAC Foundation’s staff, trained and accredited by the National Social Security Association (NSSA). NSSA and the AMAC Foundation and its staff are not affiliated with or endorsed by the Social Security Administration or any other governmental entity. To submit a question, visit our website (amacfoundation. org/programs/social-security-advisory) or email us at ssadvisor@amacfoundation. org.

Bill reauthorizing the Responsible Utility Customer Protection Act passes Pa. Senate

State Senator Lisa M. Boscola (D-Northampton) announced that her legislation, Senate Bill 1017, passed the PA Senate with broad

bipartisan support. The bill focuses on amending and reauthorizing Chapter 14, known as “The Responsible Utility Customer Protection

Act,” set to expire on December 31, 2024.

Chapter 14, initially established in 2004, serves to shield responsible customers of public utilities by providing fair avenues for reducing unpaid accounts. Senator Boscola expressed thanks for the Senate’s support, highlighting the collaborative efforts that went into the bill following numerous public hearings and stakeholder meetings.

“Senate Bill 1017 is a dedicated effort to make measured and balanced updates to enhance this essential consumer protection tool,” Boscola said.

Beyond permanently reauthorizing the Chapter, Senate

Bill 1017 introduces updates to strengthen customer protections. These include improvements to payment arrangements, termination notices, extended safeguards for medically vulnerable customers, enhancements to customer assistance programs, and expanded protections for domestic violence victims. The bill also modernizes notification standards for public utilities and prioritizes safety for utility workers during service terminations. She emphasized that this marks an important step in renewing the chapter, urging swift action from the House and Governor before the scheduled expiration in December 2024.

Chester County Commissioners award nearly $6.7 million in open space preservation and park improvement grants

Chester County Commissioners Josh Maxwell, Marian Moskowitz, and Eric Roe approved the awarding of nearly $6.7 million in open space preservation and park improvement grants at a recent public Commissioners meeting.

The grants are made available through Chester County’s Preservation Partnership Program, which offers funding to municipalities and non-profit land preservation organizations.

“We are pleased to join with our municipalities and land trusts in these investments to provide safe recreational opportunities for the public, protect the environment, and preserve Chester County’s incredible natural resources,” Maxwell, Moskowitz, and Roe said in a statement.

“These projects help us contribute to a high quality of life that we hope will inspire future generations to similar stewardship. We are fortunate that, for more than 30 years, the people of Chester County have approved devoting dollars in this way.”

A total of 16 grants are included this year, ranging from $11,533 to East Coventry Township for environmental restoration of the East Coventry Nature Preserve to $2,000,000 to Natural Lands to expand the William Penn State Forest.

The grants include the following sites and projects:

• East Coventry Township will receive $11,533 for environmental restoration at the East Coventry Nature Preserve. The project will help address streambank erosion, flooding, and invasive species removal.

• East Vincent Township will receive $226,750 for the acquisition of a 25.6acre woodland property located in the Hopewell Big Woods, the largest remaining contiguous forest in southeastern Pennsylvania. Future use will be a nature

The site of the future Pennsbury Township Park expansion. preserve with trails for hiking, birdwatching, and nature exploration.

• East Whiteland Township will receive $870,000 for the acquisition of 52.1 acres in East Whiteland, West Whiteland, and East Goshen Townships for a future East Whiteland Township park which will include hiking and walking trails.

• London Britain Township will receive $199,187 for improvements to Nichol Park to include replacing an existing playground structure with a handicap accessible version, new playground surfacing, and resurfacing of an existing basketball court.

• Penn Township will receive $250,000 to construct the third phase of the Penn Township Sports Park which includes three youth baseball fields and two multi-purpose fields for soccer, lacrosse, and field

hockey, and more parking spaces. All facilities will be handicap accessible.

• Pennsbury Township will receive $1,875,000 to purchase a 100-acre addition to the adjacent Pennsbury Township Park for passive public recreation including hiking and birdwatching. The property supports a diversity of natural resources including woodlands, meadows, and part of Rising Run, which flows into Brandywine Creek.

• West Grove Borough will receive $100,000 for installation of an artificial turf field at Memorial Park plus the addition of trees, understory plantings, seating, stadium lights, and a new equipment storage building.

• French & Pickering Creeks Conservation Trust will receive a total of $623,765 for four projects: $72,900 for the purchase of

a conservation easement on 23.3 acres in East Coventry Township with an extensive stream corridor and woodlands; $128,300 for the purchase of a conservation easement on 24 acres in East Coventry Township which will include a public trail corridor to eventually lead to the East Coventry Nature Preserve; and $201,565 for the purchase of a conservation easement on 55.6 acres across North and South Coventry Townships which includes a publicly assessable trail and trailhead to connect Coventry Woods and Woody’s Woods, two woodland preserves which are a part of Hopewell Big Woods.

An additional $221,000 will be given to fund the purchase of a 126-acre conservation easement on the Camp Innabah property in East Vincent Township to supplement a prior county grant of $640,000.

• Natural Lands will receive a total of $2,238,184 for three projects: $188,184 for the purchase of a conservation easement on 109 acres in South Coventry and Warwick Townships located within the Hopewell Big Woods; $50,000 for the planting of over 10,000 trees in the Peacedale Preserve in Franklin Township to improve stormwater management and create habitat; and $2,000,000 for the acquisition of 493 acres in Wallace Township which will be transferred to the state and managed as part of the William Penn State Forest.

This site will eventually connect to Marsh Creek State Park and Chester County Water Resource’s Barneston Dam property along the county’s future Struble Trail North. The project will provide significant opportunities for outdoor activities including

hiking, camping, hunting, fishing, and bird watching.

• Willistown Conservation Trust will receive a total of $296,170 for two projects: $46,170 toward the installation of a bioretention basin to better manage runoff from Rushton Farm in the Rushton Woods Preserve in Willistown Township; and an additional $250,000 toward the purchase of 90 acres to create a publicly accessible nature preserve which will include new public trails. The latter amount supplements a $500,000 Preservation Partnership Program grant they received from the county in 2023.

Chester County has funded the preservation of over 65,000 acres of farmland, open space, nature preserves, and parks in partnership with farmers, municipalities, non-profits, and landowners in all 73 municipalities.

Courtesy photo

Oxford Area HS commencement speakers express hope and optimism

By Chris Barber Contributing Writer

The speakers at Oxford Area High School’s commencement last Friday expressed optimism for the future and appreciation for the education they had received.

The annual ceremony took place at the school's gymnasium, where there was ample seating for friends and relatives of the graduates.

The class members entered from the front to the music of “Pomp and Circumstance,” circled the floor and came to sit in the center of the room, surrounded by the spectators—their families and friends. The honor speakers and class officers took their places on the stage.

Class President Ava McGlothlin greeted her classmates, recalling their years and reminding them that they had learned to make new choices as they arrived at their teenage years.

Then for advice, she told them, “Follow your dreams.”

The Air Force Junior ROTC Color Guard presented the colors, followed by the National Anthem sung by the Senior Chorus.

Salutatorian Lexi Reinard said she often noticed the importance of numbers as she encountered experiences in her life. She also recalled the many hours she put in with her studies, occasionally coming up against her parents’ views on answers.

Valedictorian Molly Friel said she appreciated her excellent education at Oxford and that she will always remember the extracurricular events like sports and social events as well.

Principal James Canaday, who also served as the master of ceremonies for the evening, said he had four pieces of advice for the graduates: “Seek and serve others; come back to visit the high school and share your experiences; embrace challenges (and don’t fear failure); and seek to be a uniter and encourager.”

The class members received their diplomas one by one onstage from School Board President Jenifer Warren, Superintendent David Woods and Canaday. For a final gesture as class president, McGlothlin presented the president’s sash to Junior Class President Owen Oliver. Simultaneously with lifting their mortarboard tassels from left to right, class members shot off confetti blowers that flowed the colorful bits of paper down on their heads.

The graduates then exited with a reprise of Elgar’s “Pomp and Circumstance.”

The Oxford Arts Alliance hosts an annual student art exhibition to celebrate the vibrant talent and boundless imagination of young artists from local school districts. This year, the show will run from June 7 to June 28, with an opening reception taking place on Friday, June 7 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. The Oxford Arts Alliance is located at 38 S.Third Street in

Honor speakers pledge allegiance from their positions on the stage.

Photos by Chris Barber

Graduates celebrate the announcement of their commencement as confetti rains down on them just prior to their exit from the gym.

Class President Ava McGlothlin passes the senior sash to Junior Class President Owen Oliver.

of the Month.

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The Oxford Rotary Student of the Month is Lily Fay, pictured with LeAnn Riloff, president of the Oxford Rotary Club.

MARGARET MERRYMAN

Hockessin, Del.

Margaret “Peg” (Smith) Merryman, of Kennett Square and York, passed away on May 19, 2024 while at her home in Avondale. She was 78.

She was the spouse of C. Richard “Dick” Merryman, with whom she shared 53 years of marriage. Born in Carlisle, Pa., she was the daughter of the late H. Elwood Smith and the late Elizabeth McKnight Smith.

In addition to her husband, she is survived by her son, Mark Merryman (Tami, spouse), her daughter, Gail Merryman (Shannon Baird, partner), her grandchildren, Noah Merryman and Maya Merryman.

In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her beloved brother, H.E “Woody” Smith.

After graduating from Dallastown High School, Peg went on to study at Shippensburg and Penn State University, earning both a BS and MS in elementary education. Peg first taught at Mt. Holly Springs near Carlisle then went on to serve for over 30 years in the classroom at Avon Grove Elementary and later Penn London Elementary.

She was a woman of strong faith and was a member of the Hockessin United Methodist Church in

Peg was a devoted mother and a born teacher. She taught her children, grandchildren, and students many things about nature, from birds to fish, insects to reptiles, flowers to trees, and everything in between.

An avid book reader and card player, Peg loved playing games of all sorts with her friends and family. She always had a sense of adventure and traveled the world with her husband on many different trips and cruises. As a “snowbird,” Peg enjoyed spending the winter months in Naples, Fla., where she was active in her continuing love for outdoor education as a volunteer, giving tours and helping in several conservation groups. A true social butterfly, she never tired of chatting and spending time with friends and family.

Peg had a true zest for life and even through many difficult days with her health, her perpetual positive attitude was awe-inspiring.

Her funeral service was held at the Hockessin United Methodist Church in Hockessin, Del. Interment will be held privately.

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

To view Peg’s online obituary, please visit www. griecofunerals.com.

ROBERT DANIEL WAGNER, III

Robert Daniel Wagner, III, 70, of Cochranville, passed away on May 20, 2024 at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital in Philadelphia. He was the husband of Patricia A. Peterson Wagner. Born in Lebanon, Pa., he was the son of Betty J. Donmoyer Cimellaro and the late Robert D. Wagner, II. Robert was a veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps and served during the Vietnam War.

He was employed with Manfredi Mushroom as a truck driver for over 40 years and transported horses for Ralph G. Smith.

Robert was a devoted husband, father and friend to many. He would give the shirt off of his back to anyone in need.

Robert was very well known for his passion for baking, especially cheesecakes. His in-home business was Ellie’s Cheesecake Delightful Baked Goods.

He also enjoyed riding motorcycles, shooting pool and he was a devoted true Marine. “Semper Fi.”

He was a member of Lighthouse Freewill Gospel Baptist Church in Nottingham.

He was also a member of the Mason Dixon VFW Post # 7234 Ocean View, Delaware, the American Legion Mason Dixon Post #194, Rising Sun, Md., and Fraternal Order of Eagles Aerie 2666, Oxford.

TheChesterCountyPressfeaturesadedicatedchurch/religious pagethatcanhelpyouadvertiseyourhouseofworshipand/or business.Thepageisupdatedweeklywithnewscripture.Only$10 Weeklyforthisspace.

Weareofferingaspecialdiscountof25%offeachandeveryhelp wanted/classifiedadvertisementtoanybusinessthatadvertiseson thePRESSchurchpage.

For more information or to place an ad, contact Brenda Butt at 610-869-5553 ext. 10

In addition to his wife and mother, he is survived by his stepfather, Tony Cimellaro of Parkesburg, one daughter, Danielle L. Boxleitner (Dave) of New Providence, one son, Michael Peterson (Cindy Lashley) of Oxford, and five grandchildren, Tiffany Hernandez (Nick), Michael Peterson, Jr., Brandon Fisher, Chris Fisher (Karina) and Ellie Zook. He is also survived by one great-grandson, Bryson Mahoney and three sisters, Donna Wagner, Cheryl Conner and Lisa Wagner, and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Services will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Fraternal Order of Eagles #2666,410 South St, Oxford, Pa. 19363 or Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, https://giving. jefferson.edu/giving-guide.html.

Arrangements are being handled by the Edward L. Collins, Jr. Funeral Home, Inc. in Oxford.

Online condolences may be made at www.elcollinsfuneralhome.com.

CC250 Summit takes place on June 7

With the nation’s 250th anniversary fast approaching, it’s time for Chester County organizations, neighborhoods, and individuals to get ready.

CC250 will host a community planning summit on Friday, June 7 at Thornbury Farm in West Chester from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Attendees will have the opportunity to meet local legislators and discuss how their organizations and groups can present interactive, inclusive, compelling experiences to commemorate and celebrate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, throughout 2026.

The event will begin with

an overview of Chester County’s Heritage Themes related to CC250, and elected officials exchanging views on the importance of citizen engagement in safeguarding independence and freedom—in our nation’s past, present, and future.

Attendees will be urged to share best practices and generate ideas regarding how their own organizations’ programs and events can help people commemorate and celebrate the 250th. The aims are to help people encounter the many ways in which Chester County participated in and influenced our nation’s founding; as well as elevate everyone’s understanding of our continuing journey to build a

Claudia Lewis Silvia passed away at Crosslands in Kennett Square on May 19, 2024. She was 80. She was the spouse of Peter Silvia, with whom she shared almost nine years of marriage.

Born in Baltimore, she was the daughter of the late Richard and Louise (Stahl) Chapman and the sister of the late David Chapman.

Claudia graduated from the University of Maryland College Park and earned a degree in biology. She went on to earn two master’s degrees in education and cytogenetics. She taught at UMBC for a few years in the early 1970s and Carroll County schools for a total of 42 years, sharing her love of science and the environment. Upon retirement from the Carroll County school system, she created and taught an environmental science class for several years at McDaniel College. She will be most remembered for being the “mom” to a lot of students. She even performed marriage cer-

more perfect union. CC250 is a crowdsourced year-long commemoration and celebration by and for We the People.

At the conclusion of the Summit, all are welcome to tour Thornbury Farm, to discover the site’s historic involvement in the Battle of Brandywine at our nation’s founding; and unfinished business with the Underground Railroad.

“The CC250 Summit at Thornbury Farm will connect people who care about heritage, patriotism, civic engagement, liberty and justice for all,” said Michelle Kichline Esq., CC250 Chair. “Working together, we can maximize this unique opportunity

to commemorate historic achievements, renew our commitment to democratic ideas, and inspire the American spirit.”

All are invited to attend. To register for this free event, contact CC250 at 610-696-8211, email cc250@chescocf.org.

CC250 is an initiative of the Chester County Government in partnership with the Community Foundation. CC250’s mission is to inspire and engage all of Chester County’s communities in commemoration of America’s founding, connecting the county’s stories to the nation’s past, present, and future. For more information, visit https:// america250chesco.org.

CLAUDIA L. SILVIA

emonies for her grandson and several of her students. She made it her mission to encourage all to reach their highest potential no matter what their desires were and found a way to reach them on their own terms. Past students stayed connected with her, and she was equally proud of the musicians, the artisans, the teachers, and the medical professionals and anyone not named in these groups. Many of them credit her high school teaching with igniting their love of science and their choices in life. Beyond teaching, Claudia was a staunch environmentalist supporting many groups from cleaning up our streams to wildlife preservation. She was also an avid supporter of women’s rights, joining marches as she could. Music was one of her true loves. She met Pete at Common Ground on the Hill, an annual folk life event. Claudia and Pete had many adventures together traveling all over the world.

In addition to her husband, she is survived by her daughter, Tina, her sons, Ian, and Gaelan, her grandchildren, Patrick, Corry, and Kahlan, her great-grandchildren, Jamicen, Isla, and Bert, and her siblings, Robin, and

Marianne, her daughters-in-law, Melissa and Rebecca, as well as loved nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her loving husband, Charles Wilbert Lewis.

Contributions in her memory may be made to the Claudia and Charles Lewis STEM scholarship at carrollcf.fcsuite.com/erp/donate.

Claudia and Will’s vision for this scholarship is that it encourages students to major and/or explore STEM opportunities to help build a better future for our world. Please consider a donation to this scholarship instead of flowers.

A celebration of life will be held at 3 p.m. on June 9 at the Carroll County Arts Council, 91 West Main Street in Westminster, Md.

Claudia requested that you bring your instruments for an impromptu jam session as one of her final wishes. Arrangements are being handled by Grieco Funeral Home & Crematory, Inc. (484-734-8100) of Kennett Square. To view Claudia’s online obituary, please visit www.griecofunerals.com.

Obituaries

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CC250 will host a community planning summit on Friday, June 7 at Thornbury Farm in West Chester. U.S. Rep. Chrissy Houlahan with Randall Spackman and Kent Snell and Noah Lewis on Veterans Day last year.

ESTATE NOTICE

ESTATE OF MARGUERITE

S. BARE, DECEASED. LETTERS TESTAMENTARY on the above Estate have been granted to the undersigned, who request all persons having claims or demands against the estate of the decedent to make known the same and all persons indebted to the decedent to make payment without delay to STEPHEN J. BARE & KIMRA G. SNYDER, CO-EXECUTORS Or to their Attorney: TIMOTHY E. SHAWARYN, ESQUIRE, C/O LEGACY LAW, PLLC, 147 AIRPORT ROAD, LITITZ, PA 17543 5p-29-3t

ESTATE NOTICE

ESTATE OF Betty Lou Spotts, late of Upper Oxford Township, Chester County, Deceased. Letters Testamentary on the estate of the above-named Betty Lou Spotts 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:

Kelvin L. Spotts, Co-Executor, Ronald E. Spotts, Co-Executor, Melanie S. Murray, Co-Executor, c/o Attorney: Winifred Moran Sebastian, Esquire, 208 E. Locust St., P.O. Box 381, Oxford, PA 19363 Phone: 610-932-3838 5p-29-3t

INVITATION TO BID

Sealed proposals will be received by Elk Township at the office of Elk Township, 952 Chesterville Road, P.O. Box 153, Lewisville, PA 19351. Bids will be accepted until 3:00 PM, Monday, July 1, 2024. Bids will be opened at 6:30 PM on that day. Action will be taken by the municipality on the awarding of each bid item at the Board of Supervisors Meeting on Monday, July 1, 2024, at 7:00 PM. Bidders are asked to bid on the following:

1. Roadwork Equipment Rental w/Operator per Specifications (Bidders Qualification Form is required)

2. Snow Plowing/Ice Removal Services Equipment Rental w/ Operator per Specifications (Bidders Qualification Form and

Agreement for Snow Plowing/ Ice Removal are required) All of the above equipment shall meet Pennsylvania Department of Transportation Specification standards and the terms/conditions of the Agreement for Snow Plowing/Ice Removal Services. Bidders are not required to bid on all of the above items. The contract period for Roadwork Equipment Rental begins on July 1, 2024 and ends on June 30, 2025. The contract period for Snow Plowing/Ice Removal Services Equipment Rental begins on October 15, 2024 and ends on April 30, 2025. The successful bidder shall, within 14 days of the award of the contract, submit the following: Performance Bond in the amount of 100% of the Equipment Rental Contract; Certificate of Insurance with minimum limits of $500,000/$1,000,000 aggregate and endorsing Elk Township as Additional Insured; Proof of Workers’ Compensation Insurance or Workers’ Compensation Insurance Coverage Information for Independent Contractors; Hold Harmless & Indemnification Agreement; and IRS Form W-9. All bidders are to follow the Bidder Information Guidelines. Bidding packets are available by appointment at the Elk Township Office or may be requested by phone 610-255-0634 or by e-mail elktwpchester@gmail. com., Michael Corcoran, Secretary/Treasurer 5p-29-2t

PUBLIC NOTICE

Pursuant to the Land Recycling and Environmental Remediation Standards Act, the Act of May 19, 1995, P.L. 4, No. 19952 (Act 2), 35 P.S. §§ 6026.101 et seq., notice is hereby given that Lord Corporation, a subsidiary of Parker Hannifin (Parker Lord) is submitting to the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (PADEP), Southeast Regional Office, a Remedial Investigation Report and Preliminary Risk Assessment (Report) for the site located at 4110 Conestoga Road in Elverson, northern Chester County, Pennsylvania. The Report indicates that remediation activities conducted at the

Site attain compliance with a combination of the Statewide Health Standards and SiteSpecific Standards established under Act 2. Questions related to the Report may be directed to Arcadis U.S., Inc. at 724934-9529.

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NOTICE

OXFORD BOROUGH RESIDENTS

NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETINGS

Oxford Borough has scheduled the following public meeting. The Oxford Finance Committee meeting will be held on Tuesday, June 18, 2024, beginning at 4:30 pm.

All meetings are open to the public and will be held at Oxford Borough Hall, 1 Octoraro Alley, Oxford, PA.

If you are a person with a disability wishing to attend the public meeting and require auxiliary aid, service, or other accommodations to observe or participate in the proceedings, or you have questions please contact the Borough Manager at 610-932-2500 to discuss how your needs may be best accommodated. By: Pauline Garcia-Allen, Borough Manager 6p-5-1t

ESTATE NOTICE

ESTATE OF DAVID HENRY

SMITH, DECEASED.

Late of West Nottingham Township, Chester County, PA LETTERS of ADMINISTRATION on the above Estate have been granted to the undersigned, who request all persons having claims or demands against the estate of the decedent to make known the same and all persons indebted to the decedent to make payment without delay to JANET L. SCARUZZI, ADMINISTRATRIX, c/o Joseph A. Bellinghieri, Esq., 17 W. Miner St., West Chester, PA 19382, Or to her Attorney: JOSEPH A. BELLINGHIERI, MacELREE

HARVEY, LTD., 17 W. Miner St., West Chester, PA 19382

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PUBLIC NOTICE

2024 HYDRANT FLUSHING LONDON GROVE TOWNSHIP MUNICIPAL AUTHORITY

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN TO THE LONDON GROVE TOWNSHIP MUNICIPAL AUTHORITY WATER CUSTOMERS: FIRE HYDRANTS WILL BE FLUSHED AND FLOW TESTED FROM THE BEGINNING OF JUNE 2024 THROUGH AUGUST 2024. FLUSHING MAY BRIEFLY CAUSE LOW WATER PRESSURE. THE FLUSHING PROCESS MAY ALSO CAUSE TEMPORARY CLOUDINESS IN YOUR WATER AND/OR AIR POCKETS WHICH GIVE THE WATER A MILKY APPEARANCE. ALLOW THE WATER TO RUN UNTIL IT CLEARS. THE WATER IS POTABLE AND STILL SAFE TO DRINK. KEN BATTIN, TOWNSHIP MANAGER

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Sheriff Sale of Real Estate

By virtue of the within mentioned writs directed to Sheriff Kevin D. Dykes, the herein-described real estate will be sold at public

online auction via Bid4Assets, by accessing URL www.bid4assets.com/chestercopasheriffsales, on Thursday, June 20th, 2024 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, July 22nd, 2024. 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. 24-6-166 Writ of Execution No. 2023-07403 DEBT $216,330.95

THE LAND REFERRED TO IN THIS COMMITMENT IS DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS: ALL THAT CERTAIN TRACT OF GROUND WITH THE BUILDINGS AND IMPROVEMENTS THEREON ERECTED, SITUATE IN LOWER OXFORD TOWNSHIP, COUNTY OF CHESTER AND COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA, BOUNDED AND DESCRIBED IN ACCORDANCE WITH A TWO-LOT SUBDIVISION PLAN PREPARED FOR ROBERT WAGONER BY CONCORD LAND PLANNERS AND SURVEYORS, OXFORD, PA, DAT-

ED OCTOBER 12, 2000 AS LAST REVISED MARCH 7, 2002 AND WHICH PLAN IS RECORDED AS PLAN NO. 16183, TO WIT:

BEGINNING AT A POINT OF CURVE ON THE TITLE LINE IN THE BED OF CONNER ROAD (T-329) WHICH POINT MAKES A COMMON CORNER OF THIS PREMISES AND LAND NOW OR LATE OF UNITED MOBILE HOMES OF PA., INC.; THENCE EXTENDING FROM SAID

BEGINNING POINT ALONG THE SAID TITLE LINE IN THE BED OF CONNER ROAD THE TWO NEXT FOLLOWING COURSES AND DISTANCES, VIZ: (1) ALONG THE ARC OF A CIRCLE CURVING TO THE LEFT HAVING A RADIUS OF 1117.61 FEET THE ARC DISTANCE OF 145.50 FEET TO A POINT OF TANGENT AND (2) NORTH 63 DEGREES 40 MINUTES 00 SECONDS EAST 44.33 FEET TO A POINT, A CORNER OF THIS PREMISES AND LOT NO. 3 A; THENCE EXTENDING ALONG THE SAME SOUTH 22 DEGREES 11 MINUTES 04 SECONDS EAST 280.73 TO A POINT, A CORNER OF THIS PREMISES ON LINE OF LAND NOW OR LATE OF UNITED MOBILE HOMES OF PA., INC. AFORESAID; THENCE EXTENDING ALONG THE SAME

THE TWO NEXT FOLLOWING COURSES AND DISTANCES, VIZ: (1) SOUTH 74 DEGREES 25 MINUTES 29 SECONDS WEST 206.60 FEET TO A POINT, A CORNER OF THIS PREMISES AND (2) NORTH 18 DEGREES 52 MINUTES 25

SECONDS WEST 253.21 FEET TO THE FIRST MENTIONED POINT AND PLACE OF BEGINNING.

BEING LOT NO. 3B ON THE ABOVE MENTIONED PLAN

BEING the same premises which WILLIAM DONALD ROBINSON AND JEANETTE R. ROBINSON, HUSBAND AND WIFE, WAGONER CUSTOM CONTRACTING, INC by Deed dated 09/22/2003 and recorded in the Office of Recorder of Deeds of Chester County on 10/02/2003 at Book 5919, Page 350 granted and conveyed unto RICHARD A. MAITRE, A SINGLE MAN.

Tax Parcel # 56-4-51.5A

PLAINTIFF: LSF9 Master Participation Trust VS DEFENDANT: Richard A Maitre

SALE ADDRESS: 370 Conner Road, Oxford, PA 19363

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. KEVIN D. DYKES, SHERIFF 5p-29-3t

Classifieds

AUTO AUCTIONS

2009 Ram vin # 1D3HV13T99S711463 to be sold on June 7 2024 @9:00 am Chews Towing,Inc. 722 Market Street Oxford,PA 19363

2004 GMC 1500 vin # 2GTEC19TX41425736 to be sold on June 7 2024 @ 9:00am. Chew’s Towing, Inc. 722 Market Street Oxford, PA 19363

2020 Kia Optima vin # 5XXGT4L39LG425013 to be sold on June 7 2024 @9:00 am 722 Market Street Oxford,PA 19363

2104 Mazda CX9 vin # JM3TB3DV9E0439601 to be sold on June7 2024 @9:00 am 722 Market Street Oxford PA 19363

2007 Toyota Camry vin # 4T1BE46KX7U123877 to be sold on June 7 2024 @ 9:00 am Chews Towing,Inc. 722 Market Street Oxford, PA 19363

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Houlahan, Health and Human Services leader visit LCH

LCH Health and Community Services (LCH) welcomed U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Xavier Becerra and U.S. Congresswoman Chrissy Houlahan at LCH Kennett Square on May 10.

Becerra and Houlahan joined LCH staff during National Nurses Week to discuss the beneficial impact of the Inflation Reduction Act on the affordability of healthcare for their patients.

“It’s more than just dollars and cents,” said Becerra. “It’s about access. It’s about making sure that every single person, regardless of income, has access to the care and medications they need to live a healthy life.

“With Medicare negotiating drug prices and the elimination of catastrophic cost-sharing, we’re building a health care system that’s

stronger, more resilient, and more equitable for generations to come.”

“We applaud the administration for addressing the high cost of healthcare and prescription drugs. LCH and health centers across the country have the same goals: to ensure people have access to high-quality affordable healthcare and affordable prescription drugs,” said Ronan W. Gannon, LCH CEO. “More than 50 percent of LCH patients are uninsured. Like health centers across the country, LCH uses a sliding fee discount to make health care affordable for all patients, regardless of their ability to pay.”

LCH served 8,490 patients in 2023 across 33,926 visits to any of their three locations in Kennett Square, West Grove, and Oxford. LCH is a diverse, dynamic healthcare and patient

services team dedicated to providing affordable, accessible, and equitable healthcare and social services to our community for more than fifty years.

Houlahan said, “I am so grateful to U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services Xavier Becerra for visiting our vibrant community today. His presence underscores the Biden Administration’s unwavering commitment to prioritizing affordable healthcare for all. As we celebrate National Nurses Week, it’s particularly timely to also acknowledge the critical role nurses play in our healthcare system and the importance of accessible medication for their patients.

“The Inflation Reduction Act creates invaluable savings on prescription drugs and out of pocket

expenses for Medicare and Medicare enrollees alike. Additionally, it

saves American taxpayers billions. Together, we are making strides towards a

in our nation.”

Cecil College’s Early College Academy celebrates a decade of helping students excel academically

Cecil College is celebrating the tenth anniversary of its Early College Academy, where high school students graduate with an Associate Degree in General Studies just weeks before earning their high school diplomas. The pilot program was launched in partnership with the Oxford Area School District in Chester County back in 2014, so it is only appropriate that Oxford students will walk across the Cecil College stage during the 2024 commencement to accept their degrees. The Early College Academy graduates this year are Sabrina Alioto, Kirstin Arnold, Mason

Fetterolf, Maya Harris, Emilie Harrison, Emilee Jumper, Vivian Kearney and Kendall Tower.

Ten years ago, Cecil College took a proactive approach to expanding its dual credit opportunities for secondary students by creating the Early College Academy (ECA). This program accepted students entering ninth grade who had demonstrated academic excellence in their class.

These students embark on their journey as freshmen, taking introductory-level college classes and participating in academic success seminars for the first two years. As they progress,

they challenge themselves with higher-level courses in their major on the North East Campus during their junior and senior years, culminating in the completion of an associate of arts degree. This is a testament to their personal growth and academic excellence.

Cecil College has been at the forefront of a national trend for concurrent high school and community college learning, a trend that is more prevalent in Midwestern and Southern states than on the East Coast. The Early College Academy is a pathway to shortening the higher education process, thus

reducing the cost, and preparing students for a college environment at an earlier age. This program offers numerous opportunities and benefits for our students.

At least ten states currently require high schools to offer students a chance to earn college credits.

A growing body of academic studies has generally found that dual-enrollment students perform better academically both in high school and in college and require less remedial work.

Students who have graduated from Cecil College ECA have transferred with great success to four-year colleges and universities

throughout the United States, including Millersville University, West Chester University, University of Pittsburgh, Pitt-BradfordUniversity of Pittsburgh, Drexel University, Messiah College, Penn State University, Penn State

Harrisburg, Penn State Brandywine, Wilmington University, Towson University, Franklin and Marshall College, Delaware Valley University, Kutztown University, Bloomsburg University and Kansas State University.

Chester County announces 30th annual Town Tours & Village Walks Program

Marian

and Eric Roe

details of the 2024 Town Tours & Village Walks program,

kicking-off at the Chester County History Center in West Chester on Thursday, June 6.

Celebrating its 30th year, the Chester County Town Tours & Village Walks pro-

gram is a highly anticipated series that attracts residents and visitors from around the area. The free events feature Chester County’s cultural heritage through a series of engaging lectures

and evening strolls. The nine different programs, held weekly in communities throughout Chester County, continue through August 15.

In addition to celebrating the 30th anniversary of the program, the June 6 kickoff event will focus on the Borough of West Chester’s 225th anniversary, highlighting its evolution from Quaker village to the vibrant community it is today. Doors at the Chester County History Center will open at 5 p.m. for registration, with the program beginning promptly at 5:30 p.m., followed by the walking tours.

Additional 2024 Town Tours & Village Walk programs take place in the following Chester County communities:

• June 13, Coventryville in

South Coventry Township

• June 20, Main Street at Exton, West Whiteland Township

• June 27, Upland Farm, Upper Uwchlan Township

• July 11, Highland Orchards, West Bradford Township

• July 18, White Horse Village, East Whiteland Township

• July 25, Baird House, Uwchlan Township

• August 1, Baptist Church in the Great Valley, Tredyffrin Township

• August 8, Coventry Woods, North Coventry Township and

• August 15, Yellow Springs, West Pikeland Township

All Town Tours & Village Walks events are free to attend. Each tour begins at 5:30 p.m. and lasts approximately 50 minutes, with

the last tour leaving at 7 p.m.

Preregistration is not required for any of the Town Tours & Village Walks events in the 2024 season, and those interested in attending should go to the advertised starting point of the tour to register onsite.

For full details on the 2024 Town Tours & Village Walks program, visit www. chesco.org/towntours. The Town Tours & Village Walks program is made possible through a partnership between the Chester County Board of Commissioners, the Chester County Planning Commission, the Chester County History Center, the Chester County Historic Preservation Network, Chester County Tourism, and many dedicated volunteers.

Courtesy photo

The staff of LCH Health and Community Services with U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra and U.S. Congresswoman Chrissy Houlahan during the recent visit.

Chester County Sheriff’s Office boosts security measures

The Chester County Sheriff’s Office announced a significant boost in security measures that will strengthen the safety and security of county facilities, courts, and the community.

Six Chester County Sheriff’s Office individuals were recently promoted, taking their ceremonial oath in Courtroom 1 of the County’s Justice Center.

Those promoted include Daniel Clifton, Martin Lawson, and Robert Burkley, moving from Corporal to the rank of Sergeant. Deputies Deborah Gibney, Deborah Scavello and Kevin Griffin are now Corporals.

In addition to the promotions, the Sheriff’s Office has strengthened and expanded its security team, promoting Jose Mestre, James Harris, and Samantha Gomez from Security Officer I to Security Officer

moted leaders.”

II, and welcoming seven new security officers to

reinforce safety measures.

Under the leadership of Sheriff Kevin Dykes, the Chester County Sheriff’s Office has swiftly implemented several changes that increase security operations and enhance staffing levels.

Sheriff Dykes said, “This Office is making great strides to keep our county buildings and courts secure, and make sure that all who pass through those doors are safe.

“These promotions reflect the dedication to professional development of our current staff, and we are proud of our newly pro-

To add to the security efforts, The Sheriff’s Office has partnered with a respected vendor security company which has deployed seven security officers under the Sheriff’s command to provide supplemental security services.

In addition, the office has launched an aggressive recruitment campaign with three deputy candidates set to graduate from the academy in June, the recent hiring of two additional deputies, and four new deputy candidates scheduled to begin their training at the police academy in July.

“We also have a number of interviews in progress to make our deputy force even stronger by the end of the year,” said Dykes.

In addition, the Sheriff’s Office announced plans to

The Chester County Sheriff’s Office is focused on a comprehensive overhaul which includes the creation of new security positions, revitalizing the honor guard unit, the fugitive apprehension unit, wheels unit, implementing physical fitness programs to boost deputy well-being, and community outreach.

deputize two members of the Chester County Prison to serve as K-9 handlers, creating a partnership to expand K-9 services across the county, including the enhancement of their current unit.

Added Dykes, “As we continue to evolve and adapt to the changing landscape of law enforcement, we remain committed to professionalism, integrity, and public service. We also thank the County Commissioners for their support to ensure that we can hire the best deputies to serve Chester County.”

Courtesy photo

Six individuals in the Chester County Sheriff’s Office were recently promoted. Pictured at the ceremonial swearing-in in Courtroom 1 of the Chester County Justice Center are (from left to right) Lt. Janis Pickell, Sgt. Daniel Clifton, Chief Jason W. Suydam, Sgt. Martin Lawson,

Sheriff Kevin D. Dykes, Cpl. Deborah Gibney, Sgt. Robert Burkley, Cpl. Deborah Scavello, and Lt. Adam Sibley.

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