Chester County Press 06-21-2023 Edition

KCSD approves small tax increase for $98 million school budget

By Chris Barber

Contributing Writer

The Kennett Consolidated School District board approved a 2023-24 budget that will include a tax increase that will cost the average property owner about $53 more than last year. At the June 12 meeting,

the school board members unanimously passed an operating budget of $98.6 million – an increase of $4.3 million over last year. Based on the population and wealth of the district, it required a millage increase from 32.43 mills this year to 32.73 mills next year.

A mill is a tax of $1 on every $1,000 of assessed

value of property in the district.

The average tax bill for homeowners in the district last year was $5,900. This year’s average bill will be $5,953 based on a house that is assessed at about $181,000.

This is an increase of .92 percent. For the 2023-2024 school year, the state per-

mits increases of up to 4.1 percent based on the Act 1 Index. If a district requires a tax increase above that, it must seek approval from

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First faith, then art, now family

Oxford Borough receives assessment of financial conditions

By Betsy Brewer Brantner

Contributing Writer

Brooke Queenan and Dan Connelly from Keystone Municipal Solutions recently met with Borough Council and the public to give them an update on the Strategic Management Planning Program (STMP), financial conditions assessment and trends analysis for Oxford Borough at the first council meeting in June.

One of Landenberg’s most historic landmarks is currently undergoing major renovations. Originally built in 1893 as the Saint Francis Xavier Catholic Church, the Landenberg Road structure later served as the longtime home of artist Bernie Felch and will soon become a private residence, with an expected completion date of late November. Most of the renovations are being done by carpenter and builder David W. Bard.

The borough received a $52,500 grant through the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development’s Strategic Management Planning

Lincoln University hosts Freedom’s Table dinner

Program in April. The STMP assists municipalities by supporting the costs associated with hiring an independent financial consultant to prepare a financial plan and management review of their municipality. The final plan outlines short-term and long-term financial, managerial and economic development strategies that the municipality can consider implementing to strengthen financial capacity. The program is administered by the Governor’s Center for Local Government Services (GCLGS).

The borough began

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‘Glory From Ashes’ celebrates

African American food and fashion

By Richard L. Gaw Staff Writer

In a weekend where prominent landmarks and venues hosted a diverse series of Juneteenth events throughout Chester County, it was only fitting that the culminating event of the commemoration was held at one of the nation’s premiere historically black colleges and universities.

In association with Voices Underground, Lincoln University hosted “Freedom’s Table Dinner: A Dinner of Friendship” before 100 guests on June 18 that featured a four-course meal prepared by Chef Shadee

of FoodHeadz, and a conversation with Philadelphia fashion designer and entrepreneur Kimberly McGlonn. Subtitled “Glory From Ashes,” the event served as a celebration of both food and fashion and how each has helped define and shape the African American culture –as well as fostered economic and social opportunities.

“Juneteenth tells the story of African American dignity and beauty and the struggle for freedom, but it also tells the story of sustainability and resourcefulness,” said Greg Thompson, who along with Alex Parham is the co-director for Voices

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Wyncote Golf Club celebrates 30 years

By Steven Hoffman Staff Writer

When the Wyncote Golf Club debuted 30 years ago this week, it was immediately hailed as one of the best new courses in the entire country. No less of an authority than Golf Digest ranked it as the third-best new public course in the entire country that year.

The Heathlands-style golf course in Lower Oxford Township made the most

of its breezy fairways, gentry rolling hills and fertile southern Chester County soils, offering a unique and challenging experience for golfers.

Jim Pepple, the owner and president of Wyncote, enlisted renowned golf course architect Brian Ault to design a course that is reminiscent of an inland Scottish links course— there are moguls, mounded bunkers, windy rises and a lush carpet of bent grass

greens, tees, and fairways that offer golfers a pleasing playing surface.

Wyncote’s front nine years more or less coincided with the arrival of Tiger Woods and his transcendent popularity. Everyone, it seemed, wanted to take up golf during the “Tiger Boom” years of the midto late-1990s, and Pepple’s par-72 course featured four tees and ranges from 5,454 yards from the front tee and 7,149 yards from the back

tee. Golfers of every ability and age could enjoy a round of golf at Wyncote.

It’s never easy to run a business. As the sport’s popularity skyrocketed in the 1990s, many new golf courses opened, including some competitors for Wyncote here in Chester County. But as the U.S. economy suffered setbacks—first in the aftermath of the September 11 terrorist attacks and then a larger hit during the global

financial crisis in 2007 and 2008—not all the once-successful golf courses could find their way out of the rough.

Wyncote has survived an economic recession, the Great Recession and a global pandemic to emerge on the other side. At 30, the Wyncote Golf Club is on an upswing with wholein-one offerings—fabulous fairways, friendly service, food, and fun.

Photo by Richard L. Gaw

Photo by Chris Barber Piles of rolled up artificial turf sit ready for application beside Legacy Fields earlier this month. The turf has since been applied.

Photo by Richard L. Gaw Voices Underground Co-Director Greg Thompson spoke with Philadelphia fashion designer and entrepreneur Kimberly McGlonn as part of “Freedom’s Table Dinner: A Dinner of Friendship” that was held before 100 guests on June 18 at Lincoln University.

Lincoln University...

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Underground, a component of Square Roots Collective that helps communities tell their African American stories in ways that are true, transformative and enduring.

“The theme for tonight is ‘Glory from Ashes’ -- how African Americans historically have taken the little that was given to this culture and made some of the most beautiful and powerful artifacts and cultural realities of any place in the world. It’s an incredible story that applies to music, food, fashion and literature.”

Following welcome addresses by Parham and Lincoln University President Dr. Brenda A. Allen, Thompson hosted a “fireside chat” with McGlonn, who shared her life’s journey, its struggles and ultimately her success as the founder, owner and CEO of Blk Ivy Thrift & Vintage in Philadelphia, which opened earlier this year. With a focus on sustainability, the clothing store provides a thrift-and-vintage concept that channels its cre-

Oxford...

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working with Keystone Municipal Solutions (KMS) in April. KMS worked with council, and department heads for the next several months. KMS also met with elected officials, and staff members, as well as other stakeholders to glean policy, goals, and department direction and to learn more about the borough’s finances and operations.

The Route 1 corridor continues to grow, and housing developments and expanding businesses in surrounding townships will only put more pressure on the borough to be a vibrant urban center. The borough must address critical issues and long-term challenges to ensure the sustainability of borough services and infrastructure, and to help Oxford remain an accessible community to residents across all income levels and demographics.

Connelly explained, “We are looking at the financial history of the borough to provide projections based on trends. We looked at the tax base makeup, real estate, and community income levels. The majority of the borough’s revenue comes from real estate and income. Due to the small tax base, higher poverty rate, and

ative vision from two key moments in the Civil Rights movement: Brown v. Board of Education in 1954 and Shirley Chisholm’s campaign for U.S. presidency in 1972 – the first African American and woman to do so.

A native of Milwaukee, Wisc., McGlonn was raised in a middle-class family whose parents fell to the human struggle of depression and drug addiction, but through the guidance of friends and counselors, she became the first member of her family to attend college and eventually earned her doctorate. After teaching for 20 years, she was inspired by a Netflix documentary about the jazz artist Lee Morgan, who was noted for his “Ivy League” style of clothing, a smart look that permeated the fashion and jazz culture in the 1950s and served as a statement that African Americans should be respected.

“There were tactics that were used during this era both in fashion and outside of fashion to provoke the spirit of resistance,” she said.

Blk Ivy represents a cele-

other issues, it is and will be a challenge to generate revenue. We study trends over a number of years. The borough has maintained surpluses over about four to five years. Things like the pandemic certainly had an effect on all municipalities. Our task is to insure that expenses do not grow faster than revenues. The borough was helped by some onetime donations.

“Currently, real estate transfer taxes are cooling off, so we look forward to where we can continue to pull income from. Essentially, our question is what the trend for growth is, and how that growth compares to expenses.”

The lengthy discussion highlighted potential pitfalls and potential options for the municipality. One aspect all agreed on is that simply raising the tax millage is not the answer.

From 2018 to 2022 there was a 5 percent increase in expenses with a 2 percent increase in revenues. Items such as employee contracts, health care costs, and inflation, plus expenses such as Stormwater Pollution Management Plans (MS4) road paving, pipe replacement, new equipment and police vehicles were also identified as expenses that need to be figured in the equation.

bration not only of freedom, but expression, McGlonn said.

“During the week, most African Americans donned the costumes of submission in the uniforms that we were required to wear,” she said, “but Sunday was a day when we could articulate our vision for how we wanted to express ourselves in our best and at our best, and do it in a place of sustainability, which is through our faith.”

McGlonn told the audience that her decision to leave the teaching profession to embark on an entirely new focus in her life was “a call to action.”

“There are a number of people in this room who have had a moment in their lives when they came to an awareness of something, and they had to decide whether they were going to ignore that awareness or be called into action,” she said. “I love teaching, but I wanted to see the world from a different perspective.”

After a trip to Africa, she established a team of seamstresses, directors and graphic designers in Philadelphia, “in order to

KCSD...

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voters via a referendum.

The board started early in the year preparing a preliminary budget in January, following the calendar guidelines of the state. As months go by every spring, district officials fine tune the numbers and ultimately approve the Final General Operating Budget.

In the Kennett Consolidated School District, the state support was listed as $19.9 million this past year. This coming year the amount was listed at $19.6 million, a decrease of about $300,000.

The upcoming development of the Moran Tract is seen as a potential increase in revenues for the borough, but work has not yet begun on that project.

Moving forward a plan and timeline will be formulated and reviewed by council.

Borough Manager Pauline Garcia-Allen stressed, “Residents and voters will ultimately decide the level of services they want and what they will pay for.”

In other business, junior council member Annabelle Bresler, who has served as a liaison between the school

convince people that there was work to do,” McGlonn said. “I tried to intersect my passion with their passion so that we could play together and do something that was important.”

McGlonn is also the founder and CEO of Grant Blvd in Philadelphia, an agency that creates pathways to self-sufficiency for minorities who have been incarcerated by developing employment opportunities through sustainability, waste reduction, job creation and racial inclusivity.

Grant Blvd, she said, is about changing an entrenched narrative.

“The reality is that when we think about how we define ourselves, our government is telling us the stories about what we should care about, and if we don’t know who produces our earnings, it really means that we have decided to opt out of asking why or when or where or who or how,” she said. “In doing that, we unintentionally align ourselves with cruel forces.

“If there was one legacy of my life, it would be that I used my life to think about

Board treasurer Mike Finnegan praised the relatively low increase in millage and credited his own and CFO Mark Tracy’s frugality. He also said that the calculated assessed value of a home may be somewhat diminished thanks to a state program called the “Homestead Exemption” which reduces the bill with funds from state gambling – the lottery – for people who live in the property they own. The formula reduces for calculation the assessed value of the home by $8,964, resulting in a decrease of $293 in tax according to calculations provided at the meeting.

and council, received a certificate of appreciation and a gift from council for her participation.

An open house will be held on June 22 from 6 to 8 p.m. for the public so they can review the updates to the Subdivision and Land Development and Zoning ordinances. Residents are welcome to visit at any time.

The Active Transportation Plan survey now includes a map which is available online. The plan is scheduled to be adopted by late October.

Oxford Area Chamber of Commerce’s preliminary special event application for a New Year’s Eve event

how to invite people to see what is hard to look at and to change what is hard to change, which is ignorance.”

To learn more about Voices Underground, visit www. vuproject.org.

To learn more about Grant

In other business:

Policy

The board approved a policy directed by the Pennsylvania School Boards Associatio and commissioned by the Commonwealth that in school boards throughout the state the superintendent shall have an advisory but not voting position.

Model UN

Social studies teacher

Michael Waite received unanimous board approval to take 38 students and two chaperones on an overnight trip to Model

on December 31, 2023 was given preliminary approval by borough council.

Dennis McCartney, president of the Oxford Chamber, explained to council that the event will be a familyfriendly evening.

He said, “We will be partnering with the Oxford Presbyterian Church for this event and are working with Sgt. Coverly of the Oxford Police Department to guarantee a safe evening.” McCartney said that Coverly confirmed that he is seeking four officers to work with him on that event, which does not include two regularly scheduled patrol officers. The event would be

Blvd, visit www.grantblvd. com. To learn more about Blk Ivy Thrift & Vintage, visit www.blkivythrift.com.

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

UN. It will be held at the College of William and Mary in Virginia on Nov. 2 through 4. Fundraising will provide available funds for students who need help with the cost. The estimated cost per student is between $350 and $400. The treasury of the school club is predicted to pay for transportation.

Legacy Fields

George Wolhafe, the director of facilities, reported that the new artificial turf had been received and applied to the fields.

held entirely in the center of the town.

Borough Council also approved the following:

• Oxford Mainstreet Inc.’s special event application for “610 Day” on June 10. 610 day is named for the area code and is designed to bring the public to downtown to shop and dine locally.

• Oxford Mainstreet Inc’s special event application for the 9th Annual Car Show on Sept. 1.

• Oxford Mainstreet Inc’s special event application for the “Sounds of Summer”

First Friday event on Aug. 4.

• A motion to ratify council approval of the proposal by McMahon, A Bowman Company for $10,000 to complete the borough’s sidewalk inventory, as funded by a $10,000 grant through the Walk Works Program.

• A motion to ratify approval of the letter of support for a grant application submitted by the Alliance for the Chesapeake Bay for an Urban and Community Forestry Inflation Reduction Act award to support the Alliance’s Growing Canopies, Empowering Communities: A Collaborative Approach to Urban Forestry in the Chesapeake Bay Watershed project.

• A motion to ratify approval of the purchase agreement with Patriot Energy (on behalf of EMEX, LLC dba Mantis Energy) for a fixed energy rate of $0.07994 per kilowatt hour, with 25 percent green energy sources, for 48-months effective Dec. 1, 2023.

Photo by Richard L. Gaw

Lincoln University president Dr. Brenda A. Allen gave introductory remarks at the event.

Performance offers poignant reflection of West Chester native and civil rights leader

By Richard L. Gaw Staff Writer

Throughout last weekend, along walking tours and in venues large and small throughout southern Chester County, the region was teeming with events and activities related to the Juneteenth celebration. From field trips to food to fashion to fufu cocktails, it was a constant acknowledgement of an event that occurred 158 years ago that serves as a touchstone for African American history.

In one of the area’s

most prominent centers for music, however, there was acknowledgement of another kind, one that paid a tribute to one of Chester County’s most prominent sons, in music and the spoken word.

Illuminating Bayard Rustin, produced by People’s Light and Theatre and starring David Watkins and Sydney Banks, was performed on June 18 to an intimate and appreciative audience at The Kennett Flash. The 30-minute performance provided a stirring and informative

look into Rustin’s life as an African American activist, civil rights leader and advocate for civil rights, nonviolence and gay rights.

Born in West Chester in 1912 and educated at a school on Gay Street, Rustin later rose to prominence through his influence on Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. to call for nonviolent means of protest against discrimination, as well as his work in helping to form the Montgomery bus boycott. As illuminated throughout the performance, Rustin was often persecuted for being a homosexual, but it did not prevent him from speaking out against laws that denied gay people essential human rights.

During the 1970s and 1980s, Rustin served on many humanitarian missions that included providing aid to refugees from Vietnam and Cambodia. At the time of his death in 1987, Rustin was on a humanitarian mission in Haiti, and in 2013, President Barack Obama posthumously awarded Rustin the Presidential Medal of Freedom.

Originally a full-length play written by Steve Broadnax III that premiered in 2019, Illuminating Bayard Rustin is now a touring production offered by People’s Light.

“People’s Light has a

vested interest in civic discourse and uncovering untold stories, and I think Bayard Rustin has a story that needs to be told,” said Andrew Watring, People’s Light’s creative director of community programs. “Too often, communities do not tell the stories of those people who have a long lineage of bringing light and life and love to their own stories.

“Bayard Rustin is a case study in that. The reason that he has largely been erased from much of our history had to do not only with his sexuality but his political views and how they were weaponized against him, but using vehicles like this to tell his story provides a platform for others to consider their own stories as valid and vitally important.”

“Bayard Rustin had all of these influences that shape the activist, the world citizen, the pacifist and the gay icon – all of these things that contribute to who we are, and we do a disservice when we only focus on one aspect of his upbringing,” said Penny Washington, who has served as an historical consultant to the production.

“My work with the theater is to look at him in a more total and holistic way.”

The Kennett Flash performance served as one of many Juneteenth stopping

points in a calendar that also included a “Fashioning Freedom” showcase at Longwood Gardens; a Juneteenth dedication at Anson B. Nixon Park; a “Freedom’s Table” dinner at Lincoln University; several tours of Kennett Square, which has been

historically considered as a pioneering community in the Undergound Railroad movement; and an after party held at The Kennett Creamery.

To contact Staff Writer Richard L. Gaw, email

rgaw@chestercounty.com.

The event also included a performance of two spirituals by community leader and former Kennett Square Mayor Leon Spencer.

Local historian Penny Washington provided an historical overview of Rustin’s life and contributions to civil and human rights as part of the event.

Photos by Richard L. Gaw

Actors David Watkins and Sydney Banks delivered a stunning performance of Illuminating Bayard Rustin at The Kennett Flash on June 18, as part of the Juneteenth celebration held this past weekend in Chester County. The performance was produced by People’s Light and Theatre.

Wyncote Golf Club...

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You have one chance to make a good first impression

The accolades for Wyncote Golf Club haven’t stopped since it officially opened on June 23, 1993. A variety of industry magazines and associations have taken turns lauding the public course for offering conditions and amenities that are comparable to private courses, and golfers have been no less effusive in their praise.

One Wyncote visitor described a fall afternoon spent on the links there as “golfing heaven” in a review posted on GolfPass. “Great course, well kept and always set up to challenge. Walking this course is so much better than using a cart. Try it.”

First impressions are important—including for a golf course.

If a person drives for an hour or more to try a new course, he or she won’t come back a second time if there’s an unsatisfactory experience. That means that the golf course has to be in good condition—every day. That also means that the service and the quality of the food at the restaurant

and pub must be good— every day.

For the last 16 years, Mark McGreevy, the general manager and superintendent at Wyncote, has been charged with overseeing the conditions of the golf course. He has a degree in turf grass science.

Pepple, meanwhile, knows the land and the Oxford community very well. He was just ten years old in 1957 when his father purchased the farmland in Lower Oxford Township where the golf course is now situated. Through the years, the farm grew to include 3,000 acres with 800 cows. By 1973, Pepple took over running the farm. He continued to run the farm, and by 1986, plans were starting to take shape to achieve another dream: Bring a world-class public golf course to the Oxford area.

In 1988, he hired Ault as the architect to oversee the design and construction of what would become Wyncote Golf Club.

The permitting process alone took two years. Once that was out of the way, things came together quickly—and quite perfectly.

“The year 1992 was the best year to build a golf course,” Pepple explained. Much of the work on the course took place in about

ten months because the weather cooperated.

The temperatures only got above 90 degrees a handful of times that summer, Pepple recalled, so the growing conditions for the grass was close to ideal.

Heavy rain is bad when a golf course is under construction. Pepple recalled one day when a thunderstorm rolled in to the area. At nearby Lincoln University, four inches of rain hammered the countryside. At Wyncote, though, just a half an inch of rain fell, and the course was fine. It was a close call, but things broke the right way. As any golfer will attest, luck factors into the game. It also factors into the success of any business—at least a little bit.

“It’s a good product, good luck, good people, and a commitment to service. That’s how you get it done,” Pepple said.

Wyncote Golf Club reimagines its dining offerings

As Wyncote Golf Club celebrates its 30th anniversary this year, Pepple and his staff are eager to unveil the results of a complete reimagining of the dining experiences that are offered at the club.

The scope of the project goes far beyond a simple revision of the menus at the restaurant and pub, which are now simply known as The Restaurant at Wyncote and The Pub at Wyncote. The remodel of the restaurant and pub gives each

a new look. For the restaurant, a big emphasis was placed on being authentic to southern Chester County. They incorporated as much local woods as they could during the remodel, turning to Hearne Hardwoods for

lumber that was used. Other woods came from local barns. The main dining area in the restaurant now has enough space to accommodate 80 diners. A long table close to the bar has been imagined as a “community

Kennett Square Borough Council handles a full agenda

Parking lot lease, parking garage fee sponsorships, and several proclamations top a busy month for Kennett Square officials horticulture since 1965.

By HaLeigh Abbott

Contributing

Writer

A packed agenda for June’s Kennett Square Borough Council meeting set forth many projects and changes this summer.

Mayor Matt Fetick began the June 7 meeting by honoring Bill Taylor of Taylor Oil with a proclamation for his hard work and dedication to the Kennett Memorial Day Parade. An Army veteran, Taylor served as chairman of the parade for 17 years.

“Parade participants come from everywhere—New York, New Jersey and Maryland—and they love this town,” said Taylor in his acceptance speech.

Joann Donlick accepted a second proclamation of the month, on behalf of the Beautification Committee, for the group’s commitment to spreading beauty through

Public comments voiced many continuing concerns for community access to the Kennett Square Community/ YMCA pool this summer.

At the close of the meeting, Fetick confirmed the borough is still working with the YMCA to reduce the cost and availability of passes, which is currently only available for weekends for $10 per person. Fetick and the council feel the price is too high, and that weekday access should also be allowed.

The Kennett Square Police Department sought, and received approval, to hire a new officer. An officer resigned on June 5, which created the need to find a replacement. The Police Department will be filling the role based on the list of eligible officers developed in May.

The HARB (Historical Architecture Review Board) submitted and received approval for four building renovations: 205 S. Union Street, a currently unoccupied building, is being renovated as a boutique hotel; 201 Birch Street will be undergoing renovations to the facade of the motel wing of the building; 321 S. Union Street, a private residence, will be demolishing an existing non-original living area and building a new living area to the rear of the original house; and the Friends Home at 147 W. State Street will be demolishing a stair tower to install an elevator wing for better building access.

The Borough Council approved parking garage fee sponsorships for free parking during special events.

The proposed sponsorship fee for a non-for-profit is

$400 and a for-profit business is $500. This would allow anyone to use the garage free of charge during the sponsored time. The cost of garage parking will also be waived for Third Thursday events, based on feedback from visitors who saw a hefty delay of 30 to 40 minutes when trying to exit the garage.

A lease agreement for parking spaces created in 1961 between the Library and the Borough was voted to be terminated. Parking spaces at the old library location were leased to the Borough since the December 1961 Borough Council meeting, but with the sale of the property, the Library requested the spots be turned over to the new property owner. The library offered a $2,500 payment to the borough for termination of the lease, which is a higher profit than the park-

ing meters on the spots bring in annually for the borough.

The Wednesday Workshop was presented by Natasha Manbeck, project manager for the Kennett Connection Study. This project, which is in the planning and feasibility phases, aims to connect Kennett Square Borough, East Marlborough and Longwood Gardens to each other via walk-

ing and bicycle paths. The Active Transportation method allows for any human-powered mode of transport, including scooters and e-bikes. The project has an anticipated budget of $75,000 to be funded by grants and fundraising, and is open for public review on the website: https://www. kennectivity.com/planningkennett-connections.

Courtesy photos

The Wyncote Golf Club, with a course that is reminiscent of an inland Scottish links course, brought a worldclass golfing experience to southern Chester County when it debuted in 1993.

The golf course offers amazing views, no matter what the time of day.

Photo by HaLeigh Abbott

Bill Taylor of Taylor Oil was honored with a proclamation for his hard work and dedication to the Kennett Memorial Day Parade during the June 7 Kennett Square Borough Council meeting.

table” and it can be utilized as a long dining table for one large group or as a community table by several couples or small groups.

One of the goals of the reimagining of the dining areas was to establish a distinctive quality for the restaurant and the pub.

“All golf courses have signature holes,” McGreevy said. “Why shouldn’t a restaurant have signature tables?”

With its cozy feel, The Pub at Wyncote offers professionally crafted cocktails, cold beer and a limited menu. Guests can enjoy patio seating, great views and great conversations in a comfortable environment. Freshly baked snacks and prepared meals are also available for golfers before and during their round.

Pepple compared the renovation and rebranding of the dining spaces to what Wyncote does with its golf course on a regular basis. He tasked McGreevy with leading the effort because this is what he does to help maintain the high standards for the golf course.

Pepple said, “Mark takes on projects on the golf course every year, whether it’s improving the greens, or the sand traps or some other aspect of the course to improve the experience for golfers.”

Jon Reither is Wyncote’s director of food and beverage. He has more than 25 years of experience in the industry, including stints at the Kennett Square Golf and Country Club and Hartefeld.

Pepple, McGreevy, and

Wyncote now offers outdoor seating with tremendous views of the golf course.

Reither spent a year listening to what people liked about the restaurant and the the pub at Wyncote—and listening to what could be improved with each. Then they set out to make the changes a reality.

“We did a lot of research,”

Pepple said.

In addition to listening to guests at Wyncote, they talked to restaurant managers in Kennett Square to find out what works for restaurants locally. Reither even reached out to residents who live in the homes closest to the golf course. They were surprised to find that, after all these years, some neighbors still held the misconception that you had to golf in order to enjoy food at the restaurant or pub.

That is not the case. The restaurant and pub are open to the public, just as the golf course is.

Pepple, McGreevy, and Reither collaborated on reimagining the dining options. Reither said that McGreevy has emphasized the goal of ensuring that the food and service at the restaurant and pub matches the consistent quality of the golf course itself.

“Mark really had a clear

vision about elevating services,” Reither said.

They recently finalized an exciting, new menu that features, fresh locally sourced and seasonal foods, which combine to provide an upscale but casual dining experience.

Since the restaurant and pub are open to the public they make sure that there are plenty of affordable options on the menu.

Another initiative at Wyncote has been to utilize the space available to meet some community needs. For instance, there’s always a need for private event space. McGreevy explained that they remodeled one area below the clubhouse into a small, intimate space with a private bar that can be utilized for private events like graduation parties, NFL draft parties, or bachelor parties.

Another room can be used for business presentations. For sports fans, there are five televisions outside, and three more televisions inside. There will sometimes be live music. Of course, always on display whenever the weather allows are the tremendous views of the southern Chester County countryside. The sunsets at

Wyncote are particularly stunning.

30 years of highlights

Over the course of the last 30 years, there have been plenty of highlights. The course hosted two Exelon skins game events, bringing in top professional golfers like Jim Furyk, Sergio Garcia, and John Daly. The course earned great reviews from numerous other professional athletes, including members of the Philadelphia Eagles and basketball great Charles Barkley, who enjoyed golf outings on the course.

Pepple talked about how he and his wife, Sandy, managed to guide the business through the many challenges as the golf industry has experienced many ups and downs during the last three decades.

When the September 11 terrorist attacks caused an economic downturn that impacted corporate outings, they made the decision to reduce both their weekday rates and weekend rates to

bring in new golfers.

At one point, not long after the great recession started to ease, Wyncote utilized some space on the lower level of the clubhouse to partner with a local Curves franchise to boost revenues.

The global pandemic presented many challenges, especially early on, but then by the summer of 2020, people were turning to outdoor activities as the only way to safely spend time together and be entertained. Also, with more people working from home, they can now get away for a few hours to play some golf as part of their day.

“That actually helped introduce golf to a lot of people,” McGreevy said of the changes prompted by the pandemic. He said that it’s a family environment at Wyncote, which is one of the reasons why it has succeeded where other golf courses in the region haven’t.

McGreevy has been at Wyncote for the last 16 years, but his connections to the Pepple family go

back to when he was a teenager playing basketball with one of Pepple’s sons.

“I used to play basketball in his milking parlor,” he said.

McGreevy is just one of the longtime employees on the golf side of the business. Two of the people who work in the kitchen have been with Wyncote for more than 20 years.

“That just speaks to his commitment to people,” McGreevy said. “Jim has said, ‘I am going to find good people and give them the tools to succeed.’”

Pepple said, “As much fun as I’ve had doing it, I could not do it without the staff.”

As Wyncote reaches a new milestone anniversary, the accolades and praise from sources like Golf Advisor, GolfNow , and Golfweek validate the hard work that the staff puts in.

Wyncote Golf Club consistently ranks very high on customer satisfaction surveys.

“What that says is people come here and have a great experience,” Pepple said.

Wyncote features mounded bunkers and windy rises.

Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the government for a redress of grievances.

Innovation under pressure

On early Sunday morning, June 11, four northbound lanes of I-95 collapsed in northeast Philadelphia following the explosion of an 8,500-gallon tanker truck carrying gasoline that severed the main expressway and caused immediate chaos for travelers along the well-traveled route that connects millions of people annually to their jobs, to distribution centers and commerce centers and to their schools and their families.

As he saw the charred remains of the 103-foot-long stretch of highway from an overhead helicopter, Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro called it “remarkable devastation,” and immediately went into action by issuing a declaration of disaster, an initiative that will permit Pennsylvania to seek – and receive – federal assistance. Shapiro was joined by Philadelphia Mayor Jim Kenney and U.S. Department of Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg in promising the funds needed to repair the damage.

Then the news hit: the timetable for the reopening of the roadway would likely take several months. PennDOT is scrambling to cobble together a reasonable alternative for motorists, while in the mean time schedules teeter off kilter, city blocks and cozy, two-lane neighborhoods coagulate into a crawl of vehicles, and the tempers and patience of millions are tested like never before. In short, the City of Philadelphia – Chester County’s nearest large city – will embark upon a long, hot summer of inconvenience.

Consider for a moment, the complete impact of the bridge’s collapse as if a tragedy of similar proportions occurred on one of Chester County’s most well-traveled thoroughfares. There would be some hotheads in the mix -- we are most sure of that –who live by the belief that the world is required to maintain both their time and their overall happiness above that of others. And yet, we are also nearly certain that most in Chester County would look to the helpers – the many police departments and fire units in our municipalities, and the road crews who toil without fanfare in our townships.

In the face of tragedies large and small, specks of order begin to arise plan by plan in order that it eventually becomes a unified collaboration, authored by our most trusted men and women in the uniforms of their respective industries. There is already clear evidence of this at work; it was reported last week that crews are working 24 hours a day to construct a temporary highway where the portion of I-95 collapsed. Just days after the collapse, Shapiro and a team of advisors outlined a plan that calls for the installation of 2,000 tons of recycled glass that will be used to fill in the demolished area, followed by the paving of the reconstructed roadway that will enable the highway to reopen three lanes of traffic in each direction.

Patience may be a virtue, but innovation under pressure continues to solve our most complex issues.

Moul, Lawrence, Owlett praise Congressional action on whole milk

Rep. Dan Moul (R-Adams), Republican chairman of the House Agriculture and Rural Affairs Committee, joined with Reps. John Lawrence (R-Chester) and Clint Owlett (R-Tioga/Bradford) in praising congressional action to put whole milk back in the nation’s schools.

Moul, Lawrence and Owlett each represent rural, dairy-producing districts, and have been leading efforts in Pennsylvania to restore whole and reducedfat milk to school lunch menus. Last spring, they held a joint news conference on the topic with representatives of Pennsylvania’s dairy industry. The House later passed a package of bills, sponsored by

Lawrence, that included a measure to permit Pennsylvania schools to purchase and dispense whole and reduced fat (2 percent) Pennsylvania milk for students. The bill received overwhelming approval in the House, but the Senate failed to act.

They released the following statement: “Whole milk is delicious and nutritious and should be available to our school children. Whole and reduced fat milk was removed from our nation’s school lunch menus during the Obama administration on the premise that it would curb childhood obesity. However, this regulation has been detrimental to Pennsylvania school children and our Commonwealth’s strug-

gling dairy industry.

“Fat-free and skim milk are now the only choices available to children through school lunch programs. This milk lacks the flavor and appeal of whole milk and a lot of it ends up in the trash, depriving children of its health and nutritional benefits, and turning off many would-be milk drinkers for a lifetime.

“Agriculture is Pennsylvania’s No. 1 industry and dairy is its largest segment. A decline in milk consumption has a significant impact on Pennsylvania dairy farmers and the more than 52,000 jobs the industry provides.

In fact, Pennsylvania has lost more than 2,100 dairy farms since the federal regulation went into effect.”

Moul, Lawrence and

Owlett are now praising efforts by U.S. Rep. Glenn “GT” Thompson, who represents the 15th Congressional District and chairs the U.S. House Committee on Agriculture, for getting his bipartisan Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act through committee and on its way to consideration by the full House.

“We agree with Thompson and the bipartisan group of lawmakers who supported his bill that science does not back up claims that whole milk is unhealthy for school children. We are grateful for his leadership in Congress to restore whole and reduced fat milk to the nation’s school lunch program and bring much-needed relief for our struggling dairy farmers.”

Sappey bill implementing state-level earned income tax credit advances

State Rep. Christina Sappey is applauding the passage of H.B. 1272, bipartisan legislation crafted in partnership with the United Way of Pennsylvania, that would implement a statelevel Earned Income Tax Credit for low-income working households.

“A state earned income tax credit is a smart investment in our workforce and the return on this investment is substantial to the commonwealth,” Sappey said. “These are members of our workforce who do

not meet eligibility for social safety net programs, but are often on the verge of not being able to pay the rent on time or meet other financial obligations, particularly when an unexpected expense like a car repair or medical expense arises.”

The United Way of PA calls households in the category asset limited income constrained employed, or ALICE.

These Pennsylvanians meet the requirements for the federal EITC, which H.B.

1272 mirrors. Sappey noted that, for every $1 spent on a state EITC by the commonwealth, Pennsylvania would receive $4 back in economic growth and save $3 in social spending. The annual economic benefits of a refundable state EITC of 25 percent of the federal EITC amount to at least $1.2 billion at a cost of $366 million per year.

“Enactment of a state Earned Income Tax Credit will ensure working middle-to-low-income

families, that are currently struggling, have additional resources to avoid the slide into poverty,” Sappey said. “These folks go on to further their education and training, and increase their earning power. Our employers also need workers to stay on the job. We can support those who are doing everything right by establishing a state Earned Income Tax Credit.”

H.B. 1272 passed the House with bipartisan support and will now head to the Senate for consideration.

Avondale Borough mayor honors recent high school graduates

On June 1, Avondale Borough mayor Susan Rzucidlo presented certificates to the high school graduates residing in the borough, and congratulated them on their remarkable achievements.

Rzucidlo encouraged students from Avon Grove High School and Avon Grove Charter School to

live a life filled with adventure, passion, and purpose.

Addressing the graduates, Mayor Rzucidlo emphasized the importance of chasing their dreams, even in adversity. She urged them to embrace the unknown, step out of their comfort zones, and recognize that living a good story goes beyond personal achievements. It is

important to make a positive impact on others, be kind, compassionate, and lift others up.

High school graduation marks the beginning of an exciting journey, Rzucidlo said. She congratulated the graduates, and recognized their hard work, sacrifices, and accomplishments.

Rzucidlo invites Avondale

Borough residents who have graduated from a private school, an approved private school, or completed their IEP curriculum or GED to contact the Avondale Borough Office. She is also committed to creating and delivering congratulatory certificates for these individuals.

Photo courtesy Ian Klink Avon Grove Charter School students were presented with certificates recognizing their achievements.

Courtesy photo Avondale mayor Susan Rzucidlo is pictured with Avon Grove High School graduates after they received their certificates.

Maryland winery to open tasting room in West Grove this summer

By Caroline Roosevelt Contributing Writer

Until very recently, the term “East Coast winery” was never considered in the glossary of what accounts for a “true destination.” The title has been clutched in the palm of California and the Pacific Northwest for decades, but with changing climates and a new millennial outlook on wines that stray from the traditional concepts of wine appreciation, the East Coast is galvanizing the region into a new era in winemaking.

The Pallares family has recognized and seized on this changing landscape since they founded their Chestertown, Md.- based winery Casa Carmen in 2016. Met with success, founders Enrique and Felipe Pallares are expanding their venture to Chester County and preparing their newlyacquired farm in West Grove to become a tasting room, complete with small tapas that can be enjoyed with Casa Carmen’s wines and Spanish style vermouths. I recently spoke with Enrique Pallares to learn a little more about their operation and their expansion to Chester County.

Tell me a little about Casa Carmen.

Felipe, my wife, Laura and I started the winery in 2016 on the Eastern Shore of Maryland. My brother and I are from Ecuador, but we have also lived in Argentina, Spain, California and New York.

The constant was always the contact with nature, and the kitchen table. Our culture is deeply rooted in eating and drinking around the table, and in hospitality. When we moved to the East Coast, we started learning about the budding wine scene here. It’s kind of all over the place in terms of quality, as most new wine regions tend to be. California was like that in the fifties and sixties before it became a big deal in the seven-

ties and eighties. So we became interested in the climate, the terroir and the varietals, and that’s when we realized that the East Coast was a really interesting place to grow grapes.

We have a particular interest in low-intervention wine, made naturally and with a sustainable approach. We use mostly biodynamic practices. We also have a focus on Spanish-style vermouths. In Spain and Argentina, people drink it on its own on the rocks or with soda. We wanted to bring the idea of socially eating and drinking well, as is practiced in Spain, Italy and France.

I can appreciate your experiences over there. The quality of life, the pace of life, is different in that part of the world.

Exactly! There’s a sharp difference between the weekday and the weekend here in the U.S. Going out in Spain is not the huge commitment it is here. You may just go for a small tapas and a glass of wine. It’s better to do that in an everyday way rather than waiting for the weekend to binge.

I am curious about the growing wine scene here in Pennsylvania. What kind of specialties can you grow here? What are the strengths in this region?

Out of the East Coast states, New York and Virginia have done the best job at marketing and showing that good wine can be made out here, and Pennsylvania and Maryland are right behind. It’s a matter of a region coming into itself. There’s the problematic hegemony of Cabernet Sauvignon. You CAN grow it here, but it’s never going to be exceptional. So, on the East Coast, we have had excellent results with Cabernet Franc and Petit Bordeaux, which are wonderful wines. They’re never cloying, and they always have a nice structure to them.

Why did you want to expand Casa Carmen into West Grove?

We have been around this area for many years in nearby Maryland, and have been coming up here for a long time. There are real advantages to the wines up here, to the ones on the Eastern Shore. We have better growing conditions here.

While we still have our tasting room in downtown Chestertown, we sold our farm and moved our whole agricultural operation to West Grove, because we found a hillside in a windy valley that has very rocky soils and is well drained and was perfect for what we wanted to do with the vineyard. Our whole family is together here and we all work in the winery.

The Casa Carmen tasting room will be on the farm?

Yes. Part of what we want to do here is to bring people into the agricultural side of the business. From the beginning, Casa Carmen has really focused on the vermouth and tapas culture.

If you go to our place in Chestertown, it really feels like a bar in Spain. What we want to do at our West Grove tasting room is to also have tapas and cocktails and wine, and infuse the tasting room with the agricultural component of Chester County. We will grow food for the tapas here in the garden. My brother, Felipe will be the brains and chef behind the food, and will also run the tasting room.

When are you planning to open your tasting room?

At this point, we are looking for a July-August opening, but we will definitely be open by late summer.

It’s been really eye opening to hear about these wines in less limiting terms. I’m excited to check it out and I’ll also give vermouth a try. I’ve never been interested in

vermouth but the way you described them, they sound delicious. We are proud vermouth evangelists and we have converted many skeptics!

Hopefully, I’ll be one of them!

Casa Carmen is located at 378 Hoods Lane in West Grove. To learn more about Casa Carmen, visit www.casacarmenwines. com.

CCIU teacher selected as finalist for 2024 Pa. Teacher of the Year

Heather Kilgore, a multiple disabilities support (MDS) teacher at the Child and Career Development Center (CCDC), has been selected as a finalist for the 2024 Pennsylvania Teacher of the Year.

Each year, public school teachers who support K-12 are recognized by the Teacher of the Year program for excellence in teaching and outstanding academic contributions to Pennsylvania’s school-aged children.

Kilgore is one of 12 teachers from across the commonwealth who have been selected as finalists.

Kilgore began her teaching career at CCDC in the

fall of 2004, where she served as a student teacher in a high school learning sup port classroom. In January 2005, Kilgore was officially hired at CCDC for a middle and high school emotional support classroom role. After nine years, she transitioned to her current role as a teacher in a K-4 MDS classroom.

Kilgore has become a beloved teacher and colleague during her years at CCDC.

“Heather is one of those teachers you come across once in a great while,” said Dr. Susan Mateka, principal at CCDC. “She is able to see exactly what each child brings to the com-

munity, and her whole teaching approach involves finding and using their unique strengths to help them fully participate in meaningful learning.”

While Kilgore’s selection is well-deserved according to many of her colleagues, she attributes her success to the supportive and closeknit community at CCDC.

“I am so honored and humbled to be named a finalist for PA Teacher of the Year,” she said. “This recognition is not about me though. It is about all of the amazing teachers, therapists, instructional assistants and nurses who support one another throughout the challeng-

ing and rewarding times of our profession. I have the honor to work with such amazing, dedicated and passionate people.”

As a finalist, Kilgore must submit several videos showcasing her lessons and classroom. Considering her students’ enthusiasm for her class, it will not be hard to capture Kilgore’s remarkable work.

“The best thing about my classroom is the students. I have the honor of teaching the most incredible children who have taught me more about life than I could ever teach them,” Kilgore said. “You can’t leave my classroom without smiling from ear to ear. There’s

Casa Carmen offers an extensive list of wines, as well as Spanish-style vermouths.

Photos courtesy of Sarah Culver Photography

With the help of their family, Enrique and Felipe Pallares of Casa Carmen are opening a wine tasting room on their farm in West Grove later this summer.

Infusing an agricultural component of Chester County that will include tapas made from ingredients grown fresh on the farm, the wine tasting room at Casa Carmen will focus on the enjoyment of wine, food, family and friends.

Courtesy photo

Pennsylvania Teacher of the Year Finalist Heather Kilgore and a student interact during a lesson in her classroom.

JACQUELINE FARRA SLAUCH

Jacqueline Farra Slauch, a lifelong resident of Oxford, passed away on June 6, 2023 at the Jenners Pond Assisted Living Facility in West Grove. She was 97. She shared 66 years of marriage with her late husband, Leon T. Slauch.

Born in Oxford, she was the daughter of the late John R. and Genevieve McClurg Farra.

Jacqueline graduated as “best all-around student” from Oxford High School in 1943. She attended West Chester State Teachers College and graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in music education in 1948. She went on to earn a master’s degree from West Chester State College and Temple University.

Jacqueline taught music for two years at the Atlantic City School District and retired from the Kennett Consolidated School District as a music teacher after 22

Alleluia

DANIEL BLAIR SPENCER

years of service.

Jacqueline was the longest serving member of the Oxford Presbyterian Church and was the director of music for 47 years. She was also a charter member of the Oxford Research Club and was a member of the Presbyterian Women’s Association and the Pennsylvania Music Educators Association.

She is survived by her four sons, Peter Slauch (Connie) of Oxford, John Slauch (Sandy) of Quarryville, Walter Slauch (Pamela) of Trappe, and James Slauch (Sandie) of Champagne, IL. Jacqueline is also survived by 10 grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren.

A memorial service will be announced at a later date. Interment will be private.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Jacqueline’s memory may be made to the Oxford Presbyterian Church, 6 Pine St., Oxford, Pa. 19363. Arrangements are being handled by the Edward L. Collins, Jr. Funeral Home, Inc., Oxford. Online condolences may be made at www.elcollinsfuneralhome.com.

Daniel Blair Spencer, 78, of Oxford passed away on June 8, 2023 at Christiana Hospital in Newark, Del.

He was the husband of Cindy Sherota Spencer, with whom he shared 45 years of marriage.

Born in Lancaster, he was the son of the late Kyle E. and Okie C. Hash Spencer.

Daniel was a veteran of the U.S. Army, 1st Infantry Division and he proudly served in the Vietnam War.

He was employed with Cedar Knoll Builders for 15 years after retiring from General Motors’ Boxwood Plant in Wilmington Del. after 30 years.

He enjoyed collecting old coins and antiques. He loved old tractors, classic cars, hot-rodding around town and jamming to good music. Daniel was a master on the drums and also a great singer in two different bands. He loved telling jokes and would do just about anything to see others smile.

Daniel is survived by his wife; two daughters, Shera Bell (Robert) of Middletown, Del. and Kyley Spencer of Wilmington, Del.; one son, Daniel Spencer of Oxford; four grandchildren, Richard Dugger, Makennah Bell, Dominic Spencer and Rylan Spencer; and one sister, Linda M. Reese (Ronald) of Rising Sun, Md.

He was preceded in death by a sister, Bonnie L. Dewitsky; his maternal grandparents, Lona M. Davis Hash and William R. Hash; and his paternal grandparents, Lessie J. Rash Spencer and Walter W. Spencer. Funeral services were held on June 19 at the Edward L. Collins, Jr. Funeral Home, Inc. in Oxford.

Interment will be private.

In lieu of flowers contributions in his memory may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project, www. woundedwarriorproject.org.

Arrangements are being handled by the Edward L. Collins, Jr. Funeral Home, Inc. in Oxford. Online condolences may be made at www.elcollinsfuneralhome.com.

Behold, God is mighty, and does not despise any; he is mighty in strength of understanding.

Job 36:5

Obituaries

HARRIET C. KRISTULA

Harriet Kristula, one of Jenner’s Pond’s oldest residents at 99 years and four months, passed away in her sleep after a brief illness on June 10, 2023.

Harriet and her husband, Mike, who predeceased her at the age of 97 shortly after the national COVID-19 lockdown started in March of 2020, joined the Jenner’s Pond community in 2009. They had previously lived in Annandale, Va.

Harriet was born in Cadillac, Mich. Shortly thereafter, her family moved to Chicago. As a young professional, Harriet’s love of the arts led her to enroll in a night course in music appreciation where she met the love of her life. After four years of dating, Harriet, who was working as a stewardess for American Airlines, flew down to Mexico City, Mexico, where Mike was studying Spanish and the two were wed in 1952.

This brief foray into foreign travel offered Harriet a glimpse into what living overseas might be like. After spending five years in Los Angeles, where Mike worked in the film industry (and where daughters Michelle and Michaela were born), Mike was accepted into the foreign service. They soon found themselves living in their first foreign service posting: Dacca, East Pakistan. They would go on to live in Bolivia (where son Mark was born), Colombia, Poland and Mexico.

After spending their initial retirement years in Virginia, Harriet and Mike moved to Jenner’s Pond because Mike had suffered a stroke. While Harriet was a dedicated caregiver, she also found time to join the Jenner’s Pond bridge circuit for several years. With all her responsibilities, Harriet was never happier than when she could simply sit back and enjoy the view outside from her Allison Building apartment.

A graveside service was held on June 15 at Oxford Cemetery.

Arrangements are being handled by the Edward L. Collins, Jr. Funeral Home, Inc. in Oxford. Online condolences may be made at www.elcollinsfuneralhome.com.

BRENDA L. BACCINO

Brenda L. (Wilcox) Baccino, of Oxford, passed away peacefully on June 14, 2023 while at the Chester County Hospital after a courageous battle with cancer. She was 64. Brenda will be remembered for her deep love for all those whom she called friends, which includes many, spanning countries, cultures, and religions. Brenda was tenacious and full of life, and her energy was contagious to those who surrounded her.

Brenda enjoyed traveling, cooking, spending time outdoors, and showing up for anyone who needed her without question or expectation of return.

Born in Casablanca, Morocco, she was the daughter of the late Earl Wilcox and the late Alice Bitton Wilcox.

Brenda was a real estate agent in Chester County, retiring in 2011 as a site manager for Baker Residential. She was an active member of the Kesher Israel Congregation in West Chester. She is survived by one daughter, Elyse BaccinoHall and her husband Eric of Downingtown, longtime partner, Louis Baccino of Oxford and one sister, Jacqueline Hicks and her husband Billy of Kennett Square.

Brenda was predeceased by one sister, Jessie Wilcox.

A graveside service was held on June 19 at the Union Hill Cemetery in Kennett Square.

In lieu of flowers, a contribution may be made to the Kesher Israel Congregation, 1000 Pottstown Pike, West Chester, Pa. 19380.

To view her online tribute and to share a memory for her family, please visit www.kuzoandfoulkfh. com.

KAREN MARGARET FRANK

Karen Margaret Frank, of Franklin Township, passed away at home on June 16, 2023. She was 79.

She was the wife of John C.S. Frank, with whom she shared 55 years of marriage.

Born in Columbus, Ohio, she was the daughter of the late Jack R. and Allene M. Eide Caddell.

Karen received her bachelor’s degree from Gettysburg College and later received her RN degree from the University of Delaware.

She was an outdoors person who loved horses and

dogs. At the age of five, Karen fox hunted on her pony and then competed in horse shows each year, including the Devon Horse Show. Karen rode horses, hiked for 45 years in local, state and federal parks as well as in Europe.

She is survived by her husband. Services will be private.

Please honor Karen by visiting the Fair Hill Natural Resources Management Area where she explored since the age of 5.

Arrangements are being handled by the Edward L. Collins, Jr. Funeral Home, Inc. in Oxford. Online condolences may be made at www.elcollinsfuneralhome. com.

JAMES ROGER MORAN

James Roger Moran, 87, of Oxford, passed away on June 11, 2023 while at home. He was the husband of Kay Rubincan Moran, with whom he shared 63 years of marriage. Born in Coatesville, he was the son of the late Thomas Oliver and Bessie Wilson Moran.

Roger was a member of Nottingham Presbyterian Church.

He was former supervisor for East Nottingham Township and he served on the township’s zoning hearing board. Roger was a dairy farmer and a mushroom grower for 30 years. He left farming in 1984 to work for Herr Foods Inc. in Nottingham.

Roger loved spending time with his family and friends.

He is survived by his wife; one daughter, Diane Robertson (Bruce) of Quarryville; two sons, Mark Moran (Natalie) of Landenberg and Scott Moran (Lisa) of Oxford; nine grandchildren, Ryan Robertson, Kaitlyn Nolt, Kyle, Collin, Clay, Cole, Thomas, Joseph and Sarah Moran; six great-grandchildren, Brynnley, Jackson and Hayden Robertson, Adley Nolt, Charlotte and Reese Moran; one brother, Larry Moran; and one sister, Winifred Moran-Sebastian.

A memorial service was held on June 15 at the Nottingham Presbyterian Church in Nottingham. Interment will be private.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Nottingham Presbyterian Church Property Committee, 497 W. Christine Rd., Nottingham, Pa. 19362.

Arrangements are being handled by the Edward L. Collins, Jr. Funeral Home, Inc. in Oxford. Online condolences may be made to www.elcollinsfuneralhome.com.

NANCY LEE GARDINER

Nancy Lee Gardiner, a resident of Landenberg, passed away while surrounded by her family at the Christiana Hospital on June 16. She was 76.

Born at the Coatesville Hospital, Nancy was the daughter of the late Leon and Alta (Hillworth) Butler.

Nancy enjoyed putting together puzzles, reading books (especially mysteries), completing sudoku puzzles, and most importantly spending time with her loved ones.

Nancy is survived by Charles Gardiner, her husband of 43 years; her children, Lisa Bernardo, Sherry Stephenson, and Reed Willis; her grandchildren, Heather Walker, Derek Roth, Kendra Bernardo, Tyler Stephenson, Madison Bloss, Devyn Bloss, and David Willis; and numerous great-grandchildren.

To view her online tribute and to share a memory with her family, please visit www.kuzoandfoulkfh. com.

Arrangements are being handled by the Kuzo Funeral Home in Kennett Square.

Obituary submissions

The Chester County Press publishes obituaries free of charge for funeral homes with active advertising accounts only. Others with a connection to southern Chester County are charged a modest fee. Obituaries appear on the Wednesday after they are received with a Monday 5 p.m. 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.

Graduation

Celebrating the

Class of 2023

We love celebrating southern Chester County high school graduates during this time of the year.

As we’ve provided coverage of local commencements, our photographers have captured some of the smiles, pride, and joy from students, their parents, teachers, and administration. Here are some additional photos from the graduation ceremonies at Avon Grove, Kennett,

and Unionville-Chadds Ford high schools as we celebrate the Class of 2023.

Oxford,

Photo by Chris Barber Kennett just-announced graduates toss their mortar boards in celebration.

Photo by Chris Barber Oxford students express their elation following the announcement of their graduation.

Photo by HaLeigh Abbott

A moment of pride at Unionville High School’s graduation ceremony.

Photo by HaLeigh Abbott

A Unionville graduate celebrates receiving the diploma.

Photo by Chris Barber Kennett High School class officers sit together in preparation for their remarks onstage.

Photo by Chris Barber Confetti rains down on Oxford graduates following the turning of their tassels.

Photo by Chris Barber Oxford Area High School seniors turn their tassels from right to left to signify their status as former students and new graduates.

Photo by Richard L. Gaw Members of the Avon Grove High School Graduation Band.

Photo by Richard L. Gaw

A few of the 429 graduating members of the Avon Grove High School Class of 2023 proceed onto the Bob Carpenter Center floor on June 7 for the school’s 95th commencement.

Photo by Richard L. Gaw

This quartet of Avon Grove soon-to-be graduates gathered in the lobby of the Bob Carpenter Center moments before ceremonies.

Celebrating the

Class of 2023

Photo by Chris Barber Kennett administration and board present diplomas to seniors onstage.

Photo by Richard L. Gaw Jeremiah Bournett and Taa Box, in alphabetical order.

Photo by Richard L. Gaw Connor King celebrates his milestone.

Photo by HaLeigh Abbott

A Unionville graduate prepares for the big moment.

Photo by Richard L. Gaw Avon Grove Senior Class President Carlos Ochoa-Martin departs the stage following his speech, “Mr. President.”

Photo by Chris Barber

Many parents and friends hold balloons and flowers to present to their children following graduation.

Photo by Chris Barber

The Kennett High School Orchestra played live music for graduation.

Photo by HaLeigh Abbott

Family and friends celebrated with the members of the Unionville High School Class of 2023.

Photo by HaLeigh Abbott

The 100th graduating class for Unionville High School.

Weaver and Hayes honored as Rotary Students of the Month

The Oxford Rotary recently honored Peyton Weaver and Nick Hayes as Rotary Students of the Month at Oxford Area High School. Weaver attends Technical College High School at Pennock’s Bridge Campus.

She is a member of the FFA. She is also a member of Skills USA, where she competes in a variety of activities related to veterinarian assistants. She is employed at Weaver’s Lawn Care and All American Overhead Doors.

Mushroom Packer

Permanent Full-Time positions: pay rate $9.50/hour - 6 days per week

Location: Kennett Square, PA.

Job Duties: Responsible for ensuring product moves rapidly and efficiently through the packing line, while at the same time, ensuring the quality of the product, packaging, wrapping and label. Must have reliable transportation to and from work.

• This position entails some bending, reaching, grasping, walking, carrying, variable temperatures, and prolonged standing.

• Ability to communicate with Supervisors and Manager

Apply at 649 W. South Street, Kennett Square, PA 19348

ESTATE NOTICE

ESTATE OF FRANCES L. DU-

VALL a/k/a FRANCES LANE

DUVALL, DECEASED.

Late of New London Township, Chester County, PA, LETTERS

TESTAMENTARY on the above

Estate have been granted to the undersigned, who request all persons having claims or demands against the estate of the decedent to make known the same and all persons indebted to the decedent to make payment without delay to SANDRA

DUVALL-WOLFE, EXECUTRIX,

c/o William B. Cooper, III, Esq., P.O. Box 673, Exton, PA 193410673,

Or to her Attorney: WILLIAM

B. COOPER, III, FOX ROTHSCHILD LLP, P.O. Box 673, Exton, PA 19341-0673

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ESTATE NOTICE

Estate of ROBERT H. BRYNILDSEN aka Robert Brynildsen, Deceased, late of the Borough of West Grove, Chester County, Pennsylvania. Letters Testamentary, have been granted to the undersigned, who requests 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 payments without delay to: ROBERT STEPHEN BRYNILDSEN, Executor, c/o his attorney, JOHN M. ASHCRAFT, III, ESQUIRE, 20 North 5th Street, Suite #1, Emmaus, PA 18049-2406

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ADVERTISEMENT FOR GRANT OF

LETTERS

ESTATE OF SUSAN TROYAN, Deceased. LATE OF Londonderry Township, Chester County, PA. Letters of Administration on the above estate have been granted to the undersigned. All persons having claims or demands against or indebted to the estate should make claims known without delay, or forward payment to Executor: Ira D. Binder, 227 Cullen Rd., Oxford, 19363, Attorney: Ira D. Binder, 227 Cullen Rd, Oxford, PA 19363

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ESTATE NOTICE

ESTATE OF PAUL A. SULLIVAN, JR., DECEASED. Late of New Garden Township, Chester County, PA, LETTERS of 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 PATRICK J. SULLIVAN, EXECUTOR, 2100 OTHOSON AVENUE, WILMINGTON, DE 19808 OR ELLE VAN DAHLGREN, ESQ., 20 MONTCHANIN ROAD, STE. 1000, GREENVILLE, DE 19807

6p-14-3t

ESTATE NOTICE

ESTATE OF MARY JANE CARROLL, DECEASED.

Late of Oxford Borough, Chester County, PA, LETTERS TESTAMENTARY on the above

Estate have been granted to the undersigned, who request all persons having claims or

She will be attending Millersville University and major in biology pre-med.

Hayes is interested in video games and cooking. He will be attending Millersville Honors College and he will major in computer science.

Classifieds/Legals

Maintenance Mechanic

Permanent Full-Time position: pay rate $15/hour 5 days per week including overtime.

Farm location: Landenberg, PA.

ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Performs regularly scheduled preventative maintenance on fleet vehicles. • Updates and maintains the Preventative Maintenance Program (PMP) schedules and manuals timely and accurately. • Documents work performed in a thorough, accurate and timely manner in the Enterprise Asset Management (EAM) computer system. • Performs all maintenance tasks in coordination with production activities and schedules. • Ensures all tasks are performed with appropriate safety measures and consistent with generally accepted maintenance shop practices. • Performs observation, diagnosis, maintenance and repair on mechanical, minor electrical and hydraulic systems on light and heavy-duty motorized vehicles and equipment. • Performs all other duties as apparent or as assigned.

1+ years of vehicle maintenance preferred. Trade or Vocational certification preferred. Apply at 649 W. South Street, Kennett Square, PA 19348

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 CHRISTINE GRAFF, EXECUTRIX, 209 Wills Farm Rd., Lincoln University, PA 19352, Or to her Attorney: ANITA M. D’AMICO, D’AMICO LAW, P.C., 65 S. Third St., Oxford, PA 19363

6p-14-3t

ESTATE NOTICE

ESTATE OF CHARLES RAY WALLACE a/k/a CHARLES R. WALLACE, DECEASED.

Late of Londonderry Township, Chester County, PA, LETTERS TESTAMENTARY on the above Estate have been granted to the undersigned, who request all persons having claims or demands against the estate of the decedent to make known the same and all persons indebted to the decedent to make payment without delay to DEBORAH GENARO, EXECUTRIX, 165 Crestview Dr., Kennett Square, PA 19348, Or to her Attorney: ANITA M. D’AMICO LAW, P.C., D’AMICO LAW, P.C., 65 S. Third St., Oxford, PA 19363 6p-14-3t

Mushroom Grower

Permanent Full-Time position: pay rate depending on experience 6/5 day week schedule

Location: Cochranville, PA

Position summary: the Grower position is responsible for assisting in monitoring and controlling all farm duties. The grower will be assigned tasks to be conducted in a timely manner so that the farm can function in a predetermined set schedule. The grower must have a sound understanding of the mushroom growing process to mentor and direct all farm employees to achieve company goals of mushroom quantity and quality. A successful grower must have thorough knowledge of mushroom physiology, growing media, mycology, and entomology as well as computer and labor relations skills, and the engineering understanding to provide an environment best suited for mushroom growth. If applicable the grower must interact with the harvesters and harvesting management throughout the week and during the daily level 2 farm meetings. Apply at 649 W. South Street, Kennett Square, PA 19348

PUBLIC NOTICE

Notice is hereby given that the London Grove Township Municipal Authority Board meeting scheduled for Monday, July 3, 2023 has been rescheduled for Wednesday, June 28, 2023 at 6:00 p.m. The meeting will be held in the London Grove Township Building, 372 Rose Hill Road, West Grove, PA. The public is invited. 6p-21-1t

Classifieds

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Courtesy photo The Oxford Rotary recently honored Peyton Weaver and Nick Hayes as Rotary Students of the Month at Oxford Area High School. Pictured are (left to right) Herbert Hayes (father), Katie Hayes (sister) Linda Hazelwood (mother) and Nick Hayes. Peyton Weaver is with her father, Eric Weaver and Dr. Ray Fischer, the Oxford Rotary Club president.

Oxford Police adds new vehicles aimed at increasing visibility, transparency

By Gabbie Burton Contributing Writer

The Oxford Borough Police Department recently added two new patrol vehicles to their existing fleet that include new features in an effort to increase their visibility and transparency in the communities they serve.

The two 2023 Ford police vehicles were officially unveiled at Oxford’s First Friday event on May 5. The cars are recognizable by their new gray color, American flag decal, reflective “POLICE” writing and the QR codes featured on the back of the vehicles.

“It’s just a more innovative way of connecting with people and linking them faster to us,” said Sgt. Chris Coverly, who first proposed the QR code feature.

While the new gray vehicles currently stand out among the all-white models currently in use, the department will be transitioning to the new style and the new features, including the QR codes, as the older cars age out. The QR code links to the CRIMEWATCH site used by the department. The site shares information about recent arrests, unsolved cases and features a tip line.

The QR code is aimed at increasing transparency

between the police department and the community, an effort that took precedence in the wake of the 2020 killing of George Floyd and the subsequent calls for change in law enforcement and criminal justice practices.

“We began to look for ways where we could be more transparent,” Coverly said. “One of them was with our social media account and our website, and then that’s when CRIMEWATCH came along.”

CRIMEWATCH is a nationwide service used by police departments to disseminate information efficiently and transparently to their respective communities. CRIMEWATCH chose to recognize the department for the QR code addition to the new vehicles in their “Customer Spotlight” feature.

“This innovative addition to the police vehicle is a commendable move towards enhancing community engagement and promoting transparency in law enforcement,” the feature reads. “As a result, we believe that this is a noteworthy development that deserves recognition and emulation.”

CRIMEWATCH also includes an app that the department utilizes to send important notifications

such as if an unsafe situation is unfolding nearby or to collect tips from the public.

“People can anonymously send us tips and send us information, and we don’t see their e-mail and we don’t know where it came from,” Coverly said. “We’re having a much higher success rate because we’re putting it on CRIMEWATCH. Tips are flowing in at a much quicker rate, and we’re able to solve crimes more quickly.”

According to Coverly, CRIMEWATCH has so far been working for the department. Since transitioning to CRIMEWATCH in early 2021, that community interaction through the website and social media has increased. He did, however, issue a reminder that the Oxford Borough Police Department only has jurisdiction within the borough and cannot respond to any tips issued from the surrounding townships.

According to Coverly, at the end of the first year using CRIMEWATCH, the department ranked in the top five for most interactions among comparably sized departments in Pennsylvania.

The QR code is also featured on A-frames to display during community events and on stickers for local businesses and indi-

viduals to place where they see fit. In addition to the QR codes, the department is also working on receiving accreditation with help from the Pennsylvania Police Accreditation Coalition (PPAC) in an effort to further promote transparency.

“Statewide accreditation is a police department opening their doors, opening their books, opening their building, opening their policy, to then have recommendations for best practices,” Coverly explained.

The PPAC adheres to the official accreditation pro-

Girl Scouts raise funds for Canine Partners for Life

Brownie Girl Scouts from Brandywine Valley Girl Scout Service Unit, which serves the Kennett and Unionville-Chadds Ford school districts, recently made a large donation of dog food, leashes, collars, and more to Canine Partners for Life.

During the Girl Scout cookie season, this group of third grade Girl Scout

Brownies decided together how they want to help their community with money raised from selling cookies.

The troop’s decision-making process allowed all the girls to have a voice. The girls began by creating an extensive list on a poster board of all the ways they can help their community. Every idea is included with equal importance. Next, the

girls voted and narrowed it down to the top-three ideas. Then there was a final vote to ensure that there was h a majority consensus on how they could make the biggest impact in the community.

After much deliberation, this group of Girl Scouts chose Canine Partners for Life, a local nonprofit organization dedicated to training service dogs, home

companion dogs, and residential companion dogs. These Brownie Girl Scouts absolutely love animals, and they were excited to find an organization willing to come to their school with a service dog to show them firsthand what the role of service dogs is in our local community. The outreach coordinator, Amanda Walton, and a Golden

Wilmington firm raises

$32,000

for Kennett Area Community Service

Diversified, LLC, a Wilmington-based financial planning firm, hosted a charity golf event to benefit Kennett Area Community Service (KACS) on May 22 at DuPont Country Club.

KACS serves the Kennett area by providing food and housing. With the help of generous sponsors and attendees, Diversified has raised over $32,000 for KACS.

Diversified announced that many companies participated as sponsors and donated raffle prizes for this event, including the following: SEI, Labaton Scharow, McKee Kubasko Group, First Home Mortgage, Will and Lynn Majarian, Nuveen, Cooper Levinson, Nataxis, Corrado Construction, Swigg, Fava, Herrs, Total Wine & More, Tito’s Handmade Vodka,

Periodontics and Implant Dentistry (Dr. Felzer and Dr. Lopes), Wawa, University of Delaware, Jamestown Hospitality Group, Stumpy’s Middletown, The Philadelphia Flyers, Winterthur, SoDel Concepts, The DuPont Country Club, The Grand, FreeRate Update, Longwood Gardens, The Produce Place, The Couch Tomato Café, Galer Estate, Delaware Museum of Nature and Science, Grain, Expedition Escape, Invesco, Morgan Stanley, Pizza By Elizabeth,

Dogfish Head Brewery,

with a charity like KACS that benefits so many people in our local community,” said Rosen. “This will be a fun event for our community, and it supports a wonderful cause, so we’re excited to see everyone there.”

KACS provides emergency housing assistance, food assistance and bridges out of

poverty workshops within the local community. Learn more at https://kacsimpact. org/. Diversified offers holistic financial planning, investment management, tax planning and insurance services in Delaware, Pennsylvania and in other states throughout the U.S. To learn more, visit www. diversifiedllc.com.

gram from the Pennsylvania Law Enforcement Accreditation Commission (PLEAC) developed by the Pennsylvania Chief of Police Association.

Currently, 149 agencies across the state maintain accredited status and must be reevaluated every three years.

“[PLEAC] recognizes the benefits of establishing professional standards and objectives for law enforcement agencies to adhere to in order for them to increase accountability, professionalism, transparency, and

most of all establish and maintain community support and trust,” reads the PPAC website on the benefits of accreditation.

In addition to increasing transparency, Coverly hopes the QR codes, CRIMEWATCH and the accreditation also increase the community’s trust in the department. “Hopefully this eases their thoughts that their town is doing it right,” he said. “I can appreciate the fact that they are willing to police themselves. I think that’s very important.”

Retriever named Rusty demonstrated the skills a dog needs to assist individuals who have a wide range of physical and cognitive disabilities.

The troop’s donation of $500 provided dog food, treats, collars, leashes, training vests, and other essential items to care for these wonderful animals at Canine Partners for Life.

An integral part of the

Girl Scout experience is to engage in community service. This is one example of how Girl Scouts can do this. If you are interested in learning more about Girl Scouts, in the Kennett Square and Unionville School Districts, contact Karen D’Agusto at kdagusto@aol.com or go the Girl Scouts of Eastern Pennsylvania website at gsep.org.

Classified

Pure Yoga, GeoTechnology

Pizza

Associates,

By Elizabeth and Oriental Trading.

Diversified is managed and co-owned by CCO David Levy and President Andrew Rosen. “We’re proud to partner

Photo courtesy of The Oxford Borough Police Department

The Oxford Borough Police Department recently added two new patrol vehicles to their existing fleet that include new features designed to increase the department’s transparency.

Courtesy photo

This group of third grade Girl Scout Brownies decided together how they wanted to help their community with money raised from selling cookies. They decided on making a donation to Canine Partners for Life.

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