Chester County Press 08-18-2021 Edition

Chester CountyPRESS

www.chestercounty.com

Covering Avon Grove, Chadds Ford, Kennett Square, Oxford, & Unionville Areas

Volume 155, No. 33

INSIDE

Wednesday, August 18, 2021

Groundbreaking for Kennett Library & Resource Center draws stakeholders, momentum

By Richard L. Gaw Staff Writer

As the general public gathered with local elected and appointed officials both past and present at the Avon Grove softball all- groundbreaking ceremony stars shine...1B for the new Kennett Library & Resource Center on Aug. 12, a rich brown mound of dirt stood two feet high near the corner of State and Willow streets.

The curve of the mound was punctured by ceremonial shovels that were about to be used by dignitaries to officially introduce the

Riding for a cure...4B

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borough to its future – a $20 million masterpiece of architecture and imagination that will bring southern Chester County a new library.

In a broader respect, however, the dirt also represented the dreams of those who persisted for two decades with an undying belief that this day would arrive.

“This board has been working for 20 years for this momentous day, and I was just informed by our Photos by Richard L. Gaw attorney that it has actually Stakeholders and contributors participated in the groundbreaking ceremony for the Continued on page 2A

new Kennett Library & Resource Center on Aug. 12.

Oxford Union Fire Company No. 1 delays 150th anniversary celebration due to COVID-19

Unionville-Chadds Ford School Board adopts health and safety plan for new school year

By Monica Thompson Fragale Contributing Writer

Local heroes honored by the District Attorney’s Office...1B

INDEX Opinion.......................5A Obituaries.............2B-3B

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Photo by Betsy Brewer Brantner

Boy Scout Troop 13 members standing with Vince Brown from Union Fire Company No. 1. Pictured are (left to right, in front) Michael Stefanosky, Mason Salve, and Paul Kellerman, and (back row) Jim Salve, Troop 13 Scout Leader Michael Kellerman and Brown, who is chair of 150th anniversary celebration and a longtime fire company member.

By Betsy Brewer Brantner ebration in 2021. But fire Contributing Writer company officials recently decided to postpone the For three years, the Oxford event planned for Sept. 11 Union Fire Company No. 1 because of concerns about members had planned for COVID-19. the 150th anniversary celThe celebration was

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East Nottingham Township welcomes two new junior supervisors Samantha Dunlap and Katherine Hanna have been appointed as junior supervisors in East Nottingham Township. The two Oxford Area High School seniors will serve for one year

By Steven Hoffman Staff Writer At the most recent township meeting, the East Nottingham Township Board of Supervisors welcomed Katherine Hanna and Samantha Dunlap as the new junior supervisors.

Dunlap and Hanna, who

are both rising seniors at Oxford Area High School, will now serve in those roles for one year.

The township has usually had just one person serve as a junior supervisor each year since the program started in 2018. But Kelli Karlton, the township secretary for East Nottingham, said that

the Board of Supervisors found it impossible to select between Dunlap and Hanna since they both offered such strong credentials and interviewed so well during the selection process.

The decision was made to have Hanna and Dunlap both serve for a year. They will take turns attending the

meetings, Karlton said.

Both students expressed their enthusiasm for taking on the duties of junior supervisor in the township.

They are both longtime residents of East Nottingham, and Dunlap said that they both share a passion for wanting to help beautify the township and to take part

in activities that will help clean up the environment.

Hanna and Dunlap are both leaders in their school and they participate in a lot of extra-curricular activities.

Hanna participates in a dual enrollment program with Cecil College and will earn an associate’s degree Continued on page 4A

Auditor’s report shows that New Garden is in good financial shape

By Richard L. Gaw Staff Writer

© 2007 The Chester County Press

scheduled for September 11 as a way to honor all those who died in the terrorist attacks against the U.S. that occurred on September 11, 2001. Helping the fire

The Unionville-Chadds Ford School Board voted unanimously to adopt its newest health and safety plan which sets masking guidelines that district residents at the Aug. 16 meeting unanimously criticized.

The meeting also featured a 20-minute recess just 12 minutes in after one district resident spoke for more than the allotted three-minute public comment timeframe, and there were pleas from residents to vote against mandatory masking, especially for the elementary schools.

East Marlborough resident Erik Dietrich advocated for parents to have the choice as to whether their children

would need masks when they return to in-person learning, something Chadds Ford resident Steven Jones also spoke about.

“Is this board prepared to keep students in masks indefinitely?”

Jones asked. “Masking students for eight hours a day should be the parents’ choice.”

Pennsbury resident Stacy Gallo said her daughter, whose acne was inflamed due to wearing a mask while at school last year, “would rather get COVID again than wear a mask again this year and go through all that pain.”

Chadds Ford resident Dion Rassias said before the vote that he thought the board members had made up their minds already, saying, “I had

Flush with the profits made from the sale of its wastewater system at the end of 2020, the New Garden Township Board of Supervisors expected to hear some good news during its annual audit report

for 2020 at the board’s Aug. 16 meeting.

They did.

In a presentation by Carl Hogan of BBD, LLP, a certified public accounting firm in Philadelphia, the report reflected that when the township finalized its 2020 budget, it did not anticipate the financial uncertainty of

a global pandemic. By the end of 2020, however the township’s general fund revenues were six percent higher than originally budgeted. Further, the board learned that the township’s real estate transfer taxes and earned income taxes – originally thought to have been impacted by the pandem-

ic – finished stronger than expected.

In spite of the fears, forecasts and finances that were all impacted by COVID19, “Overall, New Garden ended up in the same spot that they began at the beginning of 2020,” Hogan said.

From the time the transition to sell its wastewater

treatment system to Aqua Pa was completed on Dec. 21, 2020, the township’s capital fund has become the lock box for most of the $29,756,567.05 that was received during the sale.

From that profit, the township directed $5,417,369 to paying off loans, including Continued on page 4A

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Local News Kennett Library...

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been 30 years that he has been working to get this done,” said Library Board President Jeff Yetter in his opening remarks before nearly 200 guests who gathered beneath a large white tarpaulin for the ceremony.

The groundbreaking ceremony was the official launch to the construction of what will become the Kennett Library & Resource Center, a 31,485 squarefoot, two-floor facility that will serve more than 45,000 residents in neighboring municipalities. It will feature a 110-seat auditorium; several group study meeting rooms and classrooms; and a children’s area, maker’s space and four tutor rooms – all of which will be outfitted with state-of-the-art computer connectivity. In addition, the new library will also feature an outdoor terrace and on-site parking.

It will replace the current 11,000-square-foot library that is located just west of the site of the new library, that has served the community since 1961.

Throughout his address,

Oxford Union...

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company with the anniversary celebration was Boy Scout Troop 13. Recently, the leaders and scouts from Troop 13 gathered at the firehouse along with Vince Brown, a long-time fire company member, to discuss plans for what they hoped would be an epic event.

Even though the scouts who were present were all under the age of 20, they knew and felt the impact of the tragedy of September 11, 2001. The adults all remembered where they were and what they were doing when tragedy struck that day. Both groups were anxious to celebrate the 150th anniversary of Union Fire Company No. 1 by remembering and honoring all those first responders who were called to duty when the United States was attacked. Young and old agreed that the trag-

Kennett Square Mayor Matt Fetick.

Yetter praised the Library’s 20-member board, whom he called “excited, energized and enthusiastic,” and who have also contributed $792,000 toward the library’s capital campaign. Yetter also gave recognition to Chairman Emeritus Thomas C. Swett, Dansko founders Mandy Cabot and Peter Kjellerup, and Longwood Gardens President and CEO Paul Redman, who serve as honorary campaign co-chairs.

“Kennett is a special place,” Yetter concluded.

“It is the board’s hope that we will enhance everyone’s quality of life, expand our dreams, increase our knowledge and help us all to become better members of an ever-changing society.”

In his remarks, Kennett Square Mayor Matt Fetick said that he and the members of Borough Council “are thrilled that the construction of the new library was able to remain in the borough and are excited to see this come to fruition.”

Fetick also recognized U.S. Rep. Chrissy Houlahan, State Reps.

Christina Sappey and Craig Williams, State Sen. John Kane and County Commissioners Marian Moskowitz, Michele Kichline and Josh Maxwell.

me on the street and say, ‘Matt, do we really need that big library? Can’t folks get everything they need on the internet?’”

Fetick said. “When you look at the resource portion of what this library is, you will begin to understand why this is going to be a hub and a critical part of our community service.

While we have the privi‘It’s going to make a lege of being the home huge impact on the greater Kennett area and for the Library & Resource southern Chester County’ Center right here in the borough, it’s going to “I have had folks stop make a huge impact on the

greater Kennett area and southern Chester County, overall.

“More importantly, it will support the most vulnerable in our community – folks that need access to computers and the internet, folks that need the adult literacy program, and the programs go on and on. When we look at healthy communities and communities that thrive, there is no doubt in my mind that when we put our energy and efforts behind the Library & Resource

Center, that we will make a huge impact on our community for the longevity.”

Saying that the importance of a community library cannot be overstated, Rep. Houlahan said that new library will be able to provide information resources, access to technology and training to the entire community.

“The ability to read is not just a fundamental skill, but it is an important opportunity to grow with your community, it is is important for your commu-

edy of that day united all Americans.

The fire company is hopeful that next year they will continue with their anniversary celebration and that Troop 13 will continue to work with them. The scout troop has previously honored first responders each September 11, during a ceremony where the timeline of that day was read. Union Fire Company and the Oxford Police Department are also involved in that ceremony.

This year marks the 20th anniversary of September 11, and it is fitting that two entities steeped deep in volunteerism were planning to mark the day.

Even though the planned event of that day has been cancelled, Brown, who is the chair of the anniversary celebration, wants the community to know that the celebration will happen, and Union Fire Co. No. 1 still

continues 150 years later to provide protection to the Oxford area.

There is no better time than now to look back on the history of the fire company, and to honor the current and past volunteers. Union Fire Company No. 1 has served the Oxford area, protecting and saving the lives and property of those residing in the southern Chester County community. The services provided include fire and rescue, which today still consists of a completely volunteer staff.

Also included are emergency medical services, (EMS), which is provided by combined paid and volunteer crews. Few people in the area haven’t used the services of the fire company, either when coming into this world, or at some point during their lifetimes.

only a few days as the Union Fire Company No. 1 became the official title. The name change was because some of the equipment obtained in Philadelphia came from the city’s Union Fire Company No. 1. It was more expedient to change the name of the

fire company than to change the name on the equipment, and 150 years later, the name has remained.

For more information on donating to the fire company or to become a member, visit the website at www.oxfordfire.com.

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The ceremony displayed signage celebrating individuals, businesses and municipalities who have made substantial contributions to the cost of building the new library.

The fire company is the fourth-oldest company in Chester County, and covers approximately 92 square miles. This makes up the largest district for any one company in Chester County. The district is comprised of the Oxford Borough, and the townships of East Nottingham, West Nottingham, Elk, Lower Oxford and portions of Upper Oxford.

The fire company serves the community from two locations: the midtown station located in the Borough of Oxford and the Nottingham Station in the village of Nottingham.

The company became an official organization on Feb. 6, 1871, when about 20 men agreed to approve the formation of Oxford Fire Company. That name lasted

Volunteers The Union Fire Company No. 1 in Oxford uses various means of advertising and recruiting volunteers. This includes a video of the fire company, yard signs, presentations at career days in the schools, and others. The Legacy and Junior programs were established to allow younger people (under the age of 18) to apply and participate in various, but limited, activities with the hope that they will continue their involvement when they reach age 18.

Applications for membership are available on the fire company’s website (Oxfordfire.com). Paper applications can be obtained through a member or by calling the firehouse during business hours at 610-932-2411.

Upper Oxford One-Room School Reunion The Upper Oxford Oneroom School Reunion will be held this year on Sept. 18 at Manor Church on Route 926 and Faggs Manor Road.

According to the chairperson Kathryn Steele, the luncheon will begin

at noon with fun activities and a short talk about how the group is now a part of the National One-room School Historical Group, thanks to efforts of Wanda Davis of Upper Oxford.

Something different this year is the opening of the

History and Memorabilia Room to the public from 2 to 4 p.m. This may be the only year that the group will be able to open the history room to the public.

If you are an Upper Oxford Township Oneroom school student up to

1954 and wish to attend the luncheon or have any one-room school items to display, please contact chairperson Kathryn Steele at 1 Sumner Lane, West Grove, Pa. 19390 or email: kfswfs179@comcast.net.

Oxford Area School District is seeking multiple candidates to serve as

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Bilingual English/Spanish desirable.

Daily M-F 7.5hrs/182 days Salary: $12.51/hr.

Apply Online at www.oxfordasd.org under Employment - Posting #2376 Oxford Area School District is an Equal Opportunity Employer

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 18, 2021

CHESTER COUNTY PRESS

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Local News

A future Kennett Library & Resource Center card holder takes in the ceremony.

nity’s ability to grow with the commonwealth and it is important for the commonwealth’s ability grow with the country,” she said.

‘This is about our children’s grandchildren’ Calling the ceremony “a huge day in the history of Kennett Square and in the history of all of us who have been working on this project for 20 to 30 years,” the Library’s capital campaign chair Collis Townsend expressed confidence that

Health & Safety Plan...

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this preordained feeling that no matter what anyone said to you isn’t going to move any pieces this evening.

This is not a one-size-fitsall solution or problem.”

The school reopening health and safety plan establishes regulations for universal masking in certain

Kennett Library Board President Jeff Yetter welcomed guests.

the capital campaign – which has already raised $12.3 million through public and private donations – will be able to achieve its $20 million goal. He referred to two signs beside the podium that listed many of the campaign’s major contributors.

“There are names you will know, but you will also see a bunch of people you don’t know, and I think that’s going to be the story of this campaign,” said Townsend, who encouraged those in the audience to serve as

The 31,485-square-foot Kennett Library & Resource Center is scheduled to be completed in December 2022.

U.S. Rep. Chrissy Houlahan.

the Library’s emissaries in connecting the campaign to potential donors.

“This is not about us,” Townsend concluded. “This is about our children. This is about our children’s

grandchildren. This is going to have an impact on this region for 100 years.”

Fighting back emotions, Townsend said, “We need to pout a shovel in this dirt, and get this party started.”

To learn more about the new Kennett Library & Resource Center, visit w w w. k e n n e t t l i b r a r y. org. To make a donation to the new library, visit www.campaign4kennettli-

brary.org or e-mail Mary Hutchins at mary@kennettlibrary.org.

circumstances, the cleaning of facilities, and contact tracing, among other things.

For instance, masks would be required in elementary schools for all but a low county transmission level of COVID-19, and would be required in the middle and high schools during substantial and high county transmission, according to the plan.

“We are not mandating

masking,” district superintendent John Sanville said at the meeting. “We are requiring masking under certain transmission levels.”

In the secondary schools, masks would be optional during low county transmission and recommended during moderate county transmission.

Sanville sent an update to the community on Saturday that outlined the health and

safety plan, writing, “Our goal is to provide full-day, in-person instruction for all students. Normal instructional activities including breakfast and lunch will be provided. For students who opt to attend online classes, the UCFVA is available.

“The success of our plan is reliant upon the continuation of mitigation measures including masking (on district transportation and as

required inside), increased air exchanges and improved ventilation, HEPA filters, social distancing, assurance testing, handwashing, and respiratory etiquette.”

Many of the residents who spoke cited “mask anxiety” among their kids, something Sanville said that district staff and teachers are being trained to handle.

“We’re ready to tackle head-on any social or emo-

tional issues that are going to arise from COVID,” Sanville said, adding that the first people to address any mask anxiety among students would be the teachers. “Our teachers have received training, and they are adept at discerning when a child is in distress.”

A copy of the health and safety plan can be found on the district’s website, ucfsd. org.

Courtesy image Photos by Richard L. Gaw

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

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Local News East Nottingham Township...

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by the time she earns her high school diploma in the spring of 2022. She is a drum major in the marching band, and is also a member of the Future Business Leaders of America, the Science Club, and National Honore Society at Oxford.

Hanna qualified as a Phi Theta Kappa International Honor Society Division 1 vice president semifinalist and ambassador. She is also an Alpha Alpha Theta Honor Society member.

Hanna discovered that she really likes public speaking, and that has helped her immensely when she seeks leadership positions in various activities.

She has worked with the school’s Interact Club and

New Garden...

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$4,577,368 to pay off the total costs for the construction of the facility now occupied by the Southern Chester County Regional Police Department.

As specified at the board’s Jan. 19, 2021 online meeting, the township plans to funnel $21,774,761 back into the township’s investment portfolio, for possible use over the next 10 to 20 years. The sum is expected to draw an annual one percent return in interest – about $210,000 a year.

The township will then allocate $2,307,871 toward expenditures, which will include $250,000 for St. Anthony in the Hills; $238,000 for the Toughkenamon Streetscape Improvement Plan; $35,000

Rotary Club to take part in roadside cleanups in the community, and she also reached out to the Oxford Rotary Club to discuss needs in the community.

Now, she’s working with the Oxford Public Library to form a new volunteerbased organization that will help the schools and communities do better with its litter and trash clean-up efforts.

Dunlap has served as the student council vice president and class treasurer. She is involved in cheerleading, diving, and the Girl Scouts.

She works on the yearbook and is a member of the National Honor Society, the National English Honor Society, the Science National Honor Society, and the Future Business Leaders of America. During the 2019-2020 school year,

she reached nationals in the FBLA competition.

Dunlap said that giving back to the community is very important to her, and she has worked on numerous projects during her 12 years with Girl Scouts.

“I have developed a real passion for helping others, especially in my community,” Dunlap said.

Karlton said that the township is very fortunate to have not one, but two students who are so well qualified to serve as junior supervisors.

The program is open to all juniors and seniors who reside in East Nottingham Township, regardless of where they attend school.

The next application process will be in May of 2022.

Karlton said that township officials would love to have even more applicants

so that more students could gain from being involved.

As non-voting junior supervisors, Dunlap and Hanna will attend public township meetings that the

supervisors are involved in. They can participate in discussions and will make regular reports to township officials about current events and concerns, espe-

cially as they relate to young people in the community.

They can also share information about any township activities that are of interest with their peers.

for the continued clean-up of the Broad Run Creek; $210,000 for the development of the Scarlett Road Trail; and an additional $1,574,371 that will be directed toward depreciation expenses.

As of Dec. 31, 2020, the township’s capital fund contained $26 million, but Board Chairman Patrick Little said that earlier in the year, the township placed $22 million into the Pennsylvania Local Government Investment Trust (PLIGT).

Founded 1981, the agency assists in the short-term investment needs of public entities like local governments, school districts, municipal authorities, and other types of governments in Pennsylvania.

Hogan told the board that he was pleased to learn that the township is following

his recommendation, and will soon hire an assistant finance director, which he said will better delegate the many layers of financial management duties in the township.

Referring to Little, supervisor Steve Allaband said, “I am very happy with the audit’s outcome and I know you have put a lot of time in the financial planing for the future of the township. I think we are in very good shape, and that we are possibly one of the better townships in Chester County, if not the entire state.”

In other township business: It was announced that the township will be following updated masking and health guidelines issued by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), as directed by the Pennsylvania Department of

Health. Updated on June 28, the CDC upgraded its guidance for wearing a mask where required by law, rule, and regulations, including local business and workplace guidance and policies.

Township Manager Ramsey Reiner said that those who visit the Township Building and are not vaccinated are required to wear a mask.

For those who have been vaccinated, a mask is not necessary when visiting the building. Lt. Joseph Greenwalt told the board that the members of the Southern Chester County Regional Police Department (SCCRPD) are wearing masks when communicating with the public.

The board approved advertising for – and the job description of – the position of Parks and Open Space Superintendent. Reiner said

that the position would supervise the operation of all properties considered open space in the township, serve as a liaison to the Friends of the New Garden Trails, and perform general maintenance of these properties.

The board approved the appointments of Briana Small and Mark Donaghy to the Parks and Recreation Board; and Kris Small to the Historical Commission.

Allaband was chosen to serve as the township representative at the annual Pennsylvania State Association of Township Supervisors (PSATS) celebration dinner and meeting on Oct. 14-15.

The township plans to explore the idea of creating an ordinance regulating the operation of food trucks in the township that when enacted, would enforce reg-

ulations regarding permits, registration, and trash and refuse practices.

Lt. Greenwalt reported that the SCCRPD’s three National Night Out events on Aug. 3 were successful.

He said that the department is already at work planning for next year’s event.

The annual Kennett Area Community Services Holiday gift distribution event will be held at the township’s Public Works Garage on Dec. 18.

The next Board of Supervisors meeting will be held on Sept. 20. The board’s next work session, originally scheduled for Sept. 7, has been canceled and will take place on Oct. 4 at 5 p.m.

Photo by Steven Hoffman

Katherine Hanna and Samantha Dunlap have been appointed to serve as junior supervisors in East Nottingham Township.

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

Welsh Baptist Historic District to be featured in upcoming Town Tours & Village Walks program The London Britain Township Historical Commission has been busy preparing for the newly

designated Welsh Baptist Aug. 19 and 21.

Historic District to be fea- The theme of Town Tours tured in the Town Tours & Village Walks program & Village Walks event on this year is “Journeying Toward Freedom,” and the Welsh Baptist Historic District/Mason Dixon Line Free Estimates is the grand finale of the series. The tours take place Boilers, Furnaces on Thursday, Aug. 19 from 5 & Hot Water Heaters to 7:30 p.m. and from noon to 3 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. All Fuels 21. The walking tours are available with pre-registration and are sponsored by the London Britain Historical Commission and the Friends 219 Birch Street, Kennett Square, PA 19348 of White Clay Creek.

There will be presentaAsk for Jeff tions on topics like Quaker

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values of tolerance, the boundary disputes with Maryland, the drawing of the Mason Dixon Line, and the abolitionists and freedom seekers.

The Welsh Baptist Historic District is steeped in history, as the Town Tours & Village Walks webpage explains: “In 1681, Charles II granted William Penn the land grant that would become Pennsylvania.

Almost immediately, Penn had to deal with the southern border with Maryland, a colony controlled by the Calvert family. Both claims overlapped and were considered disputed territory.

Penn adopted a number of strategies to get people on the ground quickly to establish settlements is his name.

Among them, the Penny Acre Tract was the first official survey for land in what would become London Britain Township. Nearly six decades later, Charles Mason and Jeremiah Dixon surveyed the Mason and Dixon line to establish an accepted border. It was in this context that the Welsh Baptist community established by John Evans in the White Clay Creek valley in c. 1714 grew and flourished for more than a century as a near monoculture. While slavery did not exist in Pennsylvania to the same extent as its southern neighbors, including Maryland and Delaware, it nevertheless was a part of the Commonwealth’s early history until 1780, particularly in areas along the

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southern border.”

The London Britain Township Historical Commission accomplished one of its primary goals with the preservation of the historical structures such as the Evans House and the Meeting House, in the Preserve, known as the Welsh Baptist Historic District. The commission had applied for historical designation for the structures in the preserve, and they were able to announce on April 15 of this year that the Pennsylvania State Historic Preservation Office declared that the structures in the preserve were eligible for historic certification. The determination of eligibility recognizes the authenticity and historical significance of the structures in the preserve and as such, is critical for achieving the necessary protection for the buildings, which in turn enables the London Britain Township Historical Commission to qualify for desperately needed funds toward their ongoing restoration. The accomplishment of the eligibility determination resulted through a rigorous application process and the hard work and tenacity of Susan Moon, a London Britain Township Historical Commission member; Karen Marshall, Chester County Heritage Preservation Coordinator; and Cliff Parker, Chester County Archivist.

Register now by visiting www.chesco.org/planning/ towntours.

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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.

Opinion

Editorial

Opinion

The inescapable echo of her alleged sins

Community Health Centers are a key to keeping America healthy

At the moment this editorial is being written on the afternoon of Aug. 10, Andrew Cuomo has just announced that he will resign from office as the Governor for the State of New York within 14 days, on the backlash of a sexual harassment scandal that is alleged to have involved his inappropriate behavior toward several women – many of them staffers in his administration.

It is normally not the exercise of this newspaper to venture into the matters of neighboring states.

However, in the wake of the turbulent scandal that will soon leave a once-powerful governor stripped of his influence, Cuomo’s predicament – entirely of his own doing – is eerily similar in scope to the long and painful saga that led to the arrest of former Kennett Township manager Lisa Moore on Dec. 10, 2019 for allegedly embezzling $3.2 million from the township.

While the alleged crimes of Gov. Cuomo and Moore are as different as the state capitol of Albany is to Kennett Township, they have both been committed by individuals for whom the laws of checks and balances seemingly did not apply.

In the case of Cuomo, a scathing report issued by the New York attorney general found that the thirdterm governor sexually harassed 11 women and in one instance, attempted to retaliate against one of his accusers who shared her story with the public.

These reports are just a slim year removed from the time when Cuomo was cementing his position as a rising star in the Democratic Party, that were illuminated by his dignified response to the COVID-19 outbreak in his state.

Similarly, it is still hard to connect Moore – a once highly-regarded stakeholder in the economic and social community of Kennett Square – with the findings of an extensive nine-month investigation by the Chester County District Attorney’s Office that revealed the full extent of Moore’s alleged crimes.

It is not the obligation of this newspaper to investigate the thorny mess that Andrew Cuomo now finds himself in -- that’s a deep dive for the New York tabloids that will sell newspapers for months -- but it falls well within our purview to compare Cuomo’s behavior with that of Moore’s.

In the case of both individuals, their first whiff of impropriety was both alluring and, in their minds, virtually harmless. Both were respected and trusted and therefore given all of the freedom to carry on unchecked and unregulated.

With each passing impropriety, however, another layer was added to the endorphin rush of being able to get away with it. Their actions, once implausible, had become routine, and eventually, a brash system of self-governing commonly known as hubris consumed them.

While it is most certain that the political career of Cuomo is over, we do not yet know what the fate of her actions holds for Moore. Her attorney Julia Alexa Rogers recently stood before a Common Pleas judge and asked that her client’s case be continued until September, in order to “prepare for plea to comply with terms thereof and determine scheduling.”

At the time of this writing, we anticipate the long, tangled saga of Lisa Moore’s alleged $3.2 million theft is about to come to an end, likely with a guilty plea, no trial, a plan to repay the money she allegedly stole and either a negotiated sentence or a probationary period.

While we await closure on this terrible tragedy in order to provide accurate reporting of it, we already know the calamity of its aftermath.

Just as Andrew Cuomo will spend the remainder of his life chained to the shackles of his absolute truth, Lisa Moore has already been sentenced to life in the prison of her own conscience, where the inescapable echo of her alleged sins has begun to reverberate, repeatedly, and where the many faces in the township who once trusted her will haunt her dreams, and where parole will never be granted.

Letter to the Editor: Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, community health centers like LCH have been key to ensuring everyone can access affordable, quality healthcare, during and beyond the pandemic.

They are locally run, yet part of a national network that serves almost 30 million people nationwide.

They save American taxpayers $24 billion a year in health care costs by preventing and managing chronic diseases.

Community Health Centers are not ordinary medical clinics; they are also problem-solving health partners who reach beyond the exam room to care for the whole person by providing access to necessities like food and

housing resources.

Community Health Centers care for everyone, regardless of insurance status. As unemployment rises and more Americans lose their employersponsored health care, Community Health Centers will be the key to keeping America healthy.

I am so proud to have a community health center like LCH in south-

ern Chester County: primary care, pediatrics, mental health services, social assistance, dental, women’s health—so many LCH services working together to best understand and take care of the community.

Pia McCann Board chair, LCH Health and Community Services

The fight over voting rights

By Lee H. Hamilton Call me naïve, but I’ve never quite gotten why some politicians want to limit voters’ ability to cast their ballots. Sure, I know that plenty of people like to flip the classic Clausewitz quote and say that politics is war by other means.

All’s fair, etc., they insist.

But the cornerstone of representative democracy, the base on which everything else rests, is the people’s right to cast an informed vote to choose our leaders.

There’s no argument about this: it’s just a basic right.

Which means that the more Americans we hear from in the voting booth, the fairer and more representative the results. So, in my book, getting creative about restricting the ability to cast a ballot is pretty much an admission that you can’t win in the marketplace of ideas.

Over the course of our history, despite fits and starts, we’ve moved steadily toward expanding people’s ability to vote—from white men with property only, to allowing women, Black people, Native Americans, and people 18 and older to cast ballots. Yet here we are in 2021, still in a

pitched battle over this most basic of democratic rights— fought out this year in the state legislatures, Congress, and the courts, the same venues that have seen this issue for generations.

And right now, it’s looking like as a nation we’re on a determined march backward. Thanks to new legislation in Georgia, county elections officials—the backbone of our democracy—are being removed as new local and state laws take aim at elections administration in a bid, bluntly put, to put people in authority who can tilt rules and regulations in their party’s favor. Secretaries of state are losing their power as legislatures across the country move to shift power over the running of elections to, well, themselves. This does not inspire confidence in the future of American democracy.

Why? Because all these maneuvers take aim at the nitty-gritty details of running elections: voting hours; the locations of precincts and of ballot drop boxes; making it harder or easier for eligible voters to register; what’s in voter notifications—and who gets them; how often to purge voter rolls (and of

whom); the ability to certify elections. This is not about making voting fairer or easier for Americans. It’s about putting rules in place that make it harder. For a more-than-usually bold assertion of the partisan hue these moves take, you can look at Arizona: there, state legislators have introduced a bill that would take away authority from the secretary of state of the other party— until she leaves office, at which point the bill expires.

Looking to the courts for help is dicey. The U.S. Supreme Court has just signaled its willingness to allow the core value embedded in the 1965 Voting Rights Act—that what happens on the ground matters, whatever the intent—to fall by the wayside. In its decision, the Court essentially said that there’s no legal recourse if you can’t prove that a legislature acted with racist intent, regardless of how things play out in real life. There are state courts pushing back against this direction— New Hampshire’s supreme court, for instance, just invalidated a law passed in 2017 because its impact fell unequally on voters. But that strikes me as a rearguard action.

When I began in politics, I thought it would be easy to protect the right to vote. I was dead wrong. One of my earliest votes in Congress was to support the 1965 Voting Rights Act, clearly one of the most important pieces of legislation in our country’s history—and the one that the Supreme Court just undermined. I am constantly amazed at how much time, energy, and effort some people put into denying other people the right to vote. This is a battle, and those of us who believe that the health of our democracy rests on ensuring fair, equal, and unfettered access to the ballot box for all eligible voters have our work cut out for us.

Lee Hamilton is a senior advisor for the Indiana University Center on Representative Government; a Distinguished Scholar at the IU Hamilton Lugar School of Global and International Studies; and a Professor of Practice at the IU O’Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs. He was a member of the U.S. House of Representatives for 34 years.

County Commissioners Association of Pennsylvania announces 2022 leaders Members of the County Commissioners Association of Pennsylvania (CCAP) elected Daryl Miller, Bradford County commissioner as the 2022 president of the Association during its 135th Annual Conference.

Other county officials elected to be leaders of CCAP include Albert “Chip” Abramovic, Venango County commis-

sioner, first vice president; Michael Rivera, Berks County commissioner, second vice president; and Loretta Spielvogel, Lawrence County commissioner, treasurer. Kevin Boozel, Butler County commissioner and current CCAP president, will serve as the Association’s board chair in 2022.

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resentatives to the CCAP board were District 1 Representative Basil Huffman, Forest County commissioner; District 2 Representative Dan Vogler, Lawrence County commissioner; District 3 Representative Randy Phiel, Adams County commissioner; District 4 Representative Preston Boop, Union County commissioner; District 5 Representative to be determined; District 6 Representative Ray D’Agostino, Lancaster County commissioner; and District 7 Representative Brian Smith, Wayne County commissioner. Those elected will begin their terms on Jan. 1, 2022.

County governments are responsible for a wide variety of critical services, including provision of human services (mental health, intellectual disabilities, juvenile justice, children and youth, longterm care, drug and alcohol services, housing) to people in need in our communities.

Courtesy photo

Members of the County C o m m i s s i o n e r s Association of Pennsylvania (CCAP) elected Daryl Miller, Bradford County commissioner as the 2022 president of the Association during its 135th Annual Conference.

In addition, counties are responsible for emergency management and 911 services, administration of the courts and corrections system, elections, maintenance of county bridges, and the county property assessment rolls, and also are involved in environmental and land use planning, protection of open space and community and economic development.

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CHESTER COUNTY PRESS

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 18, 2021

Chester County Press

In the Spotlight

Section

B

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 18, 2021

Avon Grove all-star softball team earns third-place finish at state tourney

By Richard L. Gaw Staff Writer At the end of the regular season for the five-team Avon Grove 10-and-under softball league in early June, a total of 12 players were selected to the league’s all-star team.

As with any collection of all-stars, the talent was there, spread fairly evenly among the roster. The cohesiveness that forms every successful team, however, had to be pieced together practically overnight.

When head coach Lou Chance and his assistant coaches Mike Bertotti, Steve Krech, Chuck Rotche and Shar Rotche first gathered their team for their first practice on June 7 at Penn London Elementary

School, they knew that their first district all-star game would be played two weeks later.

“We had a group of girls who had been playing together as part of a travel team, but there were four girls who weren’t a part of that, so we focused on the collaboration from the outset, making sure that those who played together and those who didn’t came together as an allstar team,” said Chance, whose daughter Molly played third base for the team. “We had three of the best shortstops in the league on this team, so it was about assessing who fit best in what positions in order to field the best talent we could.”

The chemistry of the

The Avon Grove 10U All-Star Softball Team Roster Jorgi Beltran Brielle Bertotti Evelyn Boyle Bella Campese Molly Chance Shay Chesworth Bella Flurie Hannah Grudzinski Keaton Krech Sophia Rotche Emma Shellenberger Ava Shelley Coach Lou Chance Assistant Coaches Mike Bertotti, Steve Krech, Chuck Rotche and Shar Rotche Team Mom Lori Chance

The team earned its place in the state tournament by winning the PA District 28 softball tournament.

Courtesy photos

Avon Grove Little League’s 10U softball all-star team joined the parade of participating teams at the state tournament, held in late July in Fairchance, Pa.

girls worked in tandem with their talent, and after a hard-fought district win, the team qualified for the state 10U double-elimination softball tournament in Fairchance, Pa. in late July, a four-and-a-half-hour trip from West Grove.

Immediately, the team jumped out to an early lead in the state tournament brackets, defeating Central Columbia Little League from Bloomsburg 4-2 on July 22, and Northwest Little League from Bloomsburg by a score of 15-2 on July 23.

In between games – that involved adjusting to cramped hotel accommodations – team mom Lori Chance helped schedule fun activities that included miniature golf and a cave tour.

After two early wins, Avon Grove lost its third game on July 24 by a score of 8-0 to Dandy Lion Little

League in Moscow – the eventual state champs, who were undefeated during the entire tournament – and on July 26, the team finished tournament play with an 11-1 loss to Lower Perkiomen Little League in Collegeville.

The team drove back to Chester County, having earned a third-place finish in the state tournament.

“Even after a tough loss to the second-place team, the girls quickly put smiles back on their faces, congratulated the other team then proceeded to eat, laugh and play with that team for the next hour at the field,” said Mandy Bertotti, the mother of shortstop Brielle Bertotti and the wife of assistant coach Mike Bertotti. “Later that night at the hotel, they all sang ‘The Star-Spangled Banner’ loud enough for the whole hotel to hear!

“Our team and their families are so generous and

Head coach Lou Chance, far right, with coaches Mike Bertotti, Steve Krech, Chuck Rotche and Shar Rotche.

kind-hearted, and it shows in the way our girls treat the other teams. We as parents couldn’t be more proud of how our girls handled this whole amazing journey. It helps to have such caring coaches that support our girls through it all.”

Chance sees the Avon Grove 10U Little League softball program – including the players on this year’s all-star team – as a potential incubator affiliate for future softball teams at Avon Grove High School.

“Even while we were playing through states, that was top of mind – that some of our responsibility as coaches was to develop them as players and bring them together,” he said.

“They have such a bright future that they really are going to be the girls who will make up Avon Grove’s softball team in about six or seven years, if not sooner.”

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

District Attorney’s Office presents awards to law enforcement, first responders and community leaders The Chester County District Attorney’s Office held its annual awards ceremony to recognize and honor law enforcement, first responders, and community leaders for their extraordinary efforts to make Chester County a better and safer place.

District Attorney Deb Ryan said, “In our respective roles, it is the duty of each of us to serve and protect our communities. For most of us, this is a calling.

We understand the critical importance of helping those in need, regardless of threat, danger, or obstacle, because it is our job to make this world a better place.”

Ryan added, “Many of the award recipients repeatedly demonstrated heroic efforts by saving children from horrific abuse, tracking down and capturing

killers, removing poison and deadly weapons from our streets, or going into burning buildings to save the lives of hundreds of people. Some were part of the crucial effort to keep all of us safe from a deadly pandemic because, as essential workers, we never stopped our service to the community Others fought the good fight for justice in the courtroom while helping victims navigate an often complicated and traumatizing process. And some sought out ways to improve law enforcement’s relationships with communities of color and affect positive change to criminal justice reform in response to national tragedies.”

Ryan concluded, “Even though our professions are highly scrutinized and sometimes vilified, I am reminded every day that

Prosecutor of the Year, Deputy District Attorney Erin O'Brien and her family.

Awarded a commendation for their heroic and courageous service to the citizens of Chester County on July 30, 2020, at the Ashwood Apartments fire in North Coventry Township were NORCO Fire Compnay, Office of the Fire Marshall, North Coventry Police Department, and Pastor Josh Park.

what we do matters. Each award recipient consistently contributes to making this county a better place, facing down danger, working long hours, and selflessly serving those around them despite all the challenges.”

The awards presented this year included the following: Prosecutor of the Year – Deputy District Attorney Erin O’Brien Detective of the Year –

Chester County Detective Gary Lynch Law Enforcement Officer of the Year – Pennsylvania State Police Corporal Stefano Gallina Administrative Professional of the Year – Office manager Cheryl Greener Commendation – NORCO Fire Company, Office of the Fire Marshal, North Coventry Police Department, and Pastor Josh Park for their heroic

Law Enforecement Officer of the Year, Pennsylvania Trooper Corporal Stefano Galina (center) with DA Deb Ryan, First Assistant Mike Barry (left), and Chester County Lieutenant Robert Doughtery.

Detective of the Year, Chester County Detective Gary Lynch and his family.

and courageous service to the citizens of Chester County on July 30, 2020, at the Ashwood Apartments fire in North Coventry Township.

Commendation – Phoenixville Borough Police Department for their exemplary efforts and teamwork in providing justice to the family of a murdered teenager.

Commendation – Chester County Department of Emergency Services for their outstanding and continuous efforts in sup-

porting law enforcement and first responders during the global Covid-19 pandemic.

Commendation – Edward McFadden for his outstanding dedication, commitment, and service as the Warden of Chester County Prison for 15 years.

Commendation – Chris Saello of the United Way and DeVon Jackson for their extraordinary efforts in improving relationships between law enforcement and the communities in Chester County.

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CHESTER COUNTY PRESS

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 18, 2021

Chester County Press

Obituaries ELIZABETH RUTH DRAPER On Saturday, July 31, Elizabeth Ruth Draper transitioned peacefully while surrounded and supported by her family, following a brief, but courageous, battle with colon and liver cancer.

She was born Elizabeth Ruth Barnett in Lancaster, Pa. on May 19, 1956 to parents Genevia and Leo Barnett.

Elizabeth (or as she was affectionately known to family and friends, Butchie) graduated from Oxford Area High School in 1974. In high school, Elizabeth excelled as an all-around athlete and fierce competitor in varsity basketball and tennis. After high school, Elizabeth continued to compete in various community leagues in volleyball and softball. Elizabeth was a key member of the championshipwinning Coastal Cardinals.

Always up for any challenge, Elizabeth worked as a skilled machinist at ATACS Antenna Corporation and was a cable installer for Comcast, but it was her work with the intellectually disabled community that revealed her true talent in working with others. Her strict hand and nurturing demeanor made her a standout at Impact Systems, where she served as the supervisor of three community living sites. For 21 years, Elizabeth supervised a sheltered workshop at HandiCrafters in Thorndale, Pa., where she often ran the workshop as well as

catered the food for the cafeteria.

In 1999, Elizabeth married Thomas Draper and moved to Lincoln University, Pa. Together, they raised Jennifer Lynn, born in 1983, and Brian Thomas, born in 1991. Her grandsons Nathaniel, Jr. (NJ) and Xavier were true and eternal sources of joy. Elizabeth remained a devoted wife and loving mother and grandmother all the days of her life.

Elizabeth was a faithful member and worker at Trinity African Union Methodist Protestant Church in Zion, Md., where she was the co-chair and secretary of the Trustee Board; assistant pastor steward; president of the steward and stewardess board; president of the usher board; assistant clerk/secretary; member of the senior choir; superintendent and teacher of the Sunday School; president of the Reverend Jeanne D. Brown Scholarship Fund Committee; assistant director of the junior choir; a member of The Ray Gospel Singers; and chief cook for many delicious Sunday dinners, chicken and fish dinners, prayer breakfasts, and for special occasions. At the Conference Level of the African Union Methodist Protestant Church and Connection, she was a church delegate representing Trinity AUMP Church and a faithful member and Secretary of the Sunday School Association.

Elizabeth is survived by her husband, Thomas Draper; daughter, Jennifer Quattlebaum (Nathaniel) and son, Brian Barnett; two grandsons, Nathaniel Jr., and Xavier; siblings

Philena, Velma, Stephanie, Marcellus, and Marina (William); godchildren, Aisha and Xavier, and a host of cousins, nieces, nephews, great and great-great nieces and nephews, family, friends, and co-workers.

She was preceded in death by her mother, Genevia Barnett, and father, Leo Barnett, and her brother, Stewart Barnett, and sisters, Beverly Jackson and Wanda Lawson.

Elizabeth was an avid Phillies baseball and Eagles football fan. She was an outstanding cook, and the family can’t imagine a gathering without someone fighting over her famous chocolate cake, pies, and rice pudding. Always a jokester, Elizabeth will be remembered for her mischievous wit and easy smile.

She was a consummate and accomplished professional, had an incomparable style and a commanding presence. Elizabeth was a living testimony to the power of faith and obedience to God. Her strength and perseverance during her illness were inspirational. Butchie, Aunt Butchie and Mom Mom was the favorite aunt, best friend, jokester, and caregiver. She was loved and will be missed.

A Home Going Service was held on Aug. 7 at the Trinity Church AUMP Church.

Interment will be in the adjoining 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.

Alleluia And now, O Lord, for what do I wait? My hope is in you.

Psalm 39:7 The Chester County Press features a dedicated church/religious page that can help you advertise your house of worship and/or business. The page is updated weekly with new scripture. Only $10 Weekly for this space.

We are offering a special discount of 25% off each and every help wanted/ classified advertisement to any business that advertises on the PRESS church page.

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WEST GROVE, INC.

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 18, 2021

CHESTER COUNTY PRESS

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Chester County Press

Obituaries JAMES EDWARD AKEHURST, SR. James Edward Akehurst, Sr., a resident of West Chester, passed away at his home on Aug. 10. He was 94.

For many years, James worked at and managed a dry cleaning business.

Since the 1960s, James was an avid ham radio operator and took great interest in this passion. He earned his license, was an expert in morse code, and used the call sign W3ZKY, or ZEKE. James proudly led a group of retirees for over 30 years on the airwaves.

James was an intelligent jack-of-all-trades who possessed many talents. He was technologically savvy and used his computer skills to create digital pieces of artwork.

James also enjoyed fly-fishing on the Brandywine and listening to jazz, big band and country music.

James loved his family and appreciated spending time with them. Whether they went out to eat at a restaurant or gathered at a family member’s house for a birthday party, James enjoyed celebrating with his family and treasured

the special moments they shared together.

James was the type of person who made everyone feel welcome. His easy-going personality tended to put people at ease and make others feel comfortable. He was friendly, loving, generous and kind. James will be deeply missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him.

James is survived by two sons, James E. Akehurst, Jr. (Angela Knight) and John P. Akehurst; two daughters, Linda L. Riley (William) and Della M. Akehurst; as well as his granddaughter, Amanda Rae Akehurst.

James was preceded in death by his wife, Esther May Akehurst and his sister, Mavis Callaghan.

A graveside service will be held at 1 p.m. on Wednesday, Aug. 18 at Longwood Cemetery, 945 E Baltimore Pike in Kennett Square.

To acknowledge James’ love of animals, donations in his name may be made to Faithful Friends Animal Society, 12 Germay Dr, Wilmington, Del. 19804.

To view James’ online obituary and share a message with his family, please visit www.kuzoandfoulkfh.com.

JANE ENTRIKEN CONNER Jane Entriken Conner of Avondale passed away on Aug. 10 at Wellspan York Hospital in York, Pa. She was 92.

She was the wife of the late James A. Conner, Sr. Born in West Chester, she was the daughter of the late Dr. John Norman and Grace Matson Brinton Entriken.

Jane was a graduate of Kennett High School and attended the University of Mary Washington, Fredericksburg, Va. She was employed at Fred Engle Middle School in West Grove for 29 years and at Sanford School in Hockessin, Del. in numerous roles for over 11 years. She also worked part-time as a proofreader with the Kennett Paper.

Jane was an educator in the purest sense. She instilled a love of music, history, and the natural world in her children, taking them to countless cultural events and to experience and appreciate the wonders of nature at places like Hawk Mountain, the Eastern Shore, and the Atlantic beaches of New Jersey and Delaware. Although she was not a classroom instructor, at Sanford School, Jane became a trusted confidant to numerous boarding and day students navigating the challenges of adolescence in the turbulent years of the late 1960s. In later years, Jane loved to visit Beaufort, S.C., where her mother and two of her sisters resided.

In the 1960s, Jane volunteered as a geneaology research-

er for the Brinton Family Assoc. in Dilworthtown, Pa. She was a member of the church choir at Kennett Presbyterian Church for several years. She also volunteered for the Red Cross as a Gray Lady and she and her husband, Jim were Red Cross Disaster Action Team members.

Jane and her husband, Jim enjoyed summers in Fenwick Island, Del. for 30 years with friends from the Avon Grove area. Jane’s children and grandchildren were often in attendance at the beach, and treasure many happy memories of those summer days.

She is survived by her four children, Betsy Jane Conner, David Conner (Candy), Andy Conner (Kate) and Sallie Rush (Dave); four grandchildren, Clark, Drew, Grace and Jac; two sisters, Graceanne Sellitto of Dallas, Pa. and Barbara Entriken of Beaufort, S.C.; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, grandnieces and grandnephews. Jane had a third sister, Joan, who passed in 2016.

A private graveside service will be held in Indiantown Gap National Cemetery in Annville, Pa. When times are safer, the family plans to hold a celebration of life for Jane and her husband Jim. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Avon Grove Lions Club, 600 N. Baker Station Rd., West Grove, Pa. 19390 or Canine Partners for Life, 334 Faggs Manor Rd., Cochranville, Pa. 19330.

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

More Obituaries on Page 5B

MARY WYATT N. RILEY Mary Wyatt N. Riley, 55 of Elkton, Md., died on Aug. 9 at Christiana Hospital in Newark, Del. She was born in Jennersville on July 28, 1966 and attended Avon Grove School and North East High School.

Mary worked at Dansko and UPS in West Chester, Pa. She is survived by her two sons, John S. Novotny, Jr. and Mikel W. Novotny, both of Elkton, Md.; her parents, Clara (Mearns) Wyatt of Elkton, Md. and the late Jones Carl Wyatt; three grandchildren; and three sisters, Jo Ann Hullum, Jena Cavanagh and Janette Wyatt.

The funeral service was held on Aug. 14 at Crouch Funeral Home, P.A., 127 South Main Street, North East, Md. Interment was in North East Methodist Cemetery in North East, Md. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Singerly Fire Company, EMS Services, in care of the funeral home.

For condolences, please visit www.crouchfuneralhome. com.

BETTY JANE POTTER Betty Jane (Furches) Potter, 82, of West Grove, peacefully passed away at home while surrounded by her family on Aug. 7.

Betty married Junior Worth Potter, with whom she shared 65 years of marriage.

Born in Mountain City, Tenn., she was the daughter of the late Albert and Annie Irene May Furches.

She was employed with NVF in Kennett Square for 22 years.

Betty enjoyed gardening, flea markets and blue grass music.

She leaves behind a son, Wayne Potter of Cochranville; one granddaughter, Brandi Lee Potter; three sisters, Lucille Jennings, Janice Humphry and Willia Jennings, all of Mountain City, Tenn.; and four brothers, Albert Furches and Dayton Furches, both of N.C., and Timothy Furches and James Furches, both of Mountain City, Tenn.

She was preceded in death by one son, Sunny Potter and three brothers, Jerry Furches, Kenneth Furches and Daniel Furches.

Funeral services were held at the Edward L. Collins, Jr. Funeral Home, Inc. in Oxford.

Interment will be in 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.

4B

CHESTER COUNTY PRESS

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 18, 2021

Chester County Press

Local News Lincoln University rider to participate in third Great Cycle Challenge USA Tony Haldaway will ride 500 miles during month of September in support of Children’s Cancer Research Fund Tony Haldaway, a resident of Lincoln University, is planning to ride 500 miles and raise $500 during the month of September for Children’s Cancer Research Fund (CCRF) in support of its 7th annual Great Cycle Challenge USA. Founded in 2015, Great Cycle Challenge USA has grown to become one of the biggest cycling events in the country.

In just six years, over

350,000 riders from 50 states have tallied 24.8 million miles, raising more than $39 million for research and the development of better treatments and cures for childhood cancer. This year, CCRF hopes over 80,000 riders will help is raise more than $10 million.

“Over 15,000 American children are diagnosed with cancer every year and, sadly, 38 children die every week,” said Daniel Gumnit,

chief executive officer at Children’s Cancer Research Fund. “Thanks to riders like Tony, we’re fueling groundbreaking research to save lives and give kids the brighter future they deserve.”

Haldaway said, “This is the third time I have participated in Great Cycle Challenge. During those years, I rode 866 miles and raised $1,555.63. This year, I am aiming to raise $500

and ride 500 miles.”

Funds go to support research at leading pediatric cancer centers across America. To learn more about Tony’s Great Cycle Challenge USA and to make a donation, please visit greatcyclechallenge. com/Riders/TonyHaldaway.

To participate in Great Cycle Challenge USA, visit GreatCycleChallenge. com. About Great Cycle Challenge USA: Great

Fourth annual international Poe Fest tickets on sale Allan Poe-themed performances, vendors, readings, music, and art workshops.

The program includes presentations by The Edgar Allan Poe House, The Poe Museum (Richmond, Va.), The Poe Cottage (Bronx, N.Y.), The Poe Studies Association, The United States Military Academy at West Point, Enoch Pratt Free Library, and The Edgar Allan Poe Society of Baltimore.

Special events are ticketed, including “The Poe Places Death Weekend Bus Tour” of historic sites in Baltimore associated with Poe’s death, and the “Poe in Film & Fashion Exhibit”

at 1840s Plaza which explores the ways in which Edgar Allan Poe’s life and works continue to inspire and shape popular culture.

For those who cannot attend in person, the festival is also organizing several virtual programs and tours, livestreamed via Facebook Live @PoeBaltimore and YouTube.

A complete schedule of festival events and ticket information will be regularly updated at https:// poefestinternational.com/ festival-program. Direct ticket sales are available at PoeFestInternational. eventbrite.com.

that is leading to better treatments and cures for children with cancer. CCRF also funds vital family support services and advocates for childhood cancer education and awareness.

Since 1981, CCRF donors have helped fund research that has revolutionized the way childhood cancer is treated worldwide. Visit childrenscancer.org or call 1-888-422-7348 to learn more.

Downingtown resident elected to Franklin Mint Federal Credit Union board

This year’s event will be in-person and virtual Poe Baltimore will host the fourth annual International Edgar Allan Poe Festival and Awards (Poe Fest International) with in-person and virtual events, including vendors, performances, tours, and The Black Cat Ball. This year’s events commemorate the 172nd anniversary of Edgar Allan Poe’s death, and they will take place on Oct. 2 and 3.

The event is open to the public and free. In-person activities take place at Poe Park, in front of Poe House, at 203 N. Amity Street in Baltimore.

The in-person and online festival will feature Edgar

Cycle Challenge USA encourages cyclists across the United States to challenge themselves and set their own personal riding goal throughout September to fight kids’ cancer. Riders fundraise to save lives and give kids the brighter future they deserve.

For more information, visit greatcyclechallenge.com.

Children’s Cancer Research Fund invests in groundbreaking research

Franklin Mint Federal Credit Union (FMFCU) announced the election of Robert Partridge to its board of directors.

Partridge is a former pharmaceutical industry executive and past director of communications for the West Chester Area School District.

“Rob was an accomplished senior leader who possesses a wide range of experience and business acumen,” said FMFCU President and CEO Michael B. Magnavita, CPA. “It is an honor having him join our talented, all-volunteer board of directors.”

Partridge was previously on the FMFCU advisory board and a past board member of the Greater West Chester Chamber of Commerce.

“I proudly served on FMFCU’s Chester County Advisory Board for many years and am extremely happy to continue my association as a board member,” noted Partridge. “FMFCU is a renowned, local financial institution with an incredible past and even brighter future.”

Partridge graduated from Clarion University of Pennsylvania and resides in Downingtown.

Courtesy photo

Robert Partridge

Legals ESTATE NOTICE

Estate of, Late of ZELL, MARY F. dec’d.

Late of Oxford Borough, Chester County, PA. LETTERS TESTAMENTARY on the above estate have been granted to the undersigned, who requests all persons having claims against the estate of the decedent to make known the same and all persons indebted to the decedent to make payment without delay to: William C. Fenstermacher, Jr., Executor, 944 Marlboro Spring Rd, Kennett Square, PA 193488p8p-4-3t

ESTATE NOTICE

Estate of Ruth P. Holmes, late of East

Nottingham Township, County of Chester Pennsylvania, Deceased. Letters of Administration on said estate having been granted to the below mentioned, request all persons indebted to the decedent, make immediate payment, and those having claims or demands against the same, present them without delay for settlement to: Sarah Jane Mullins (Administrator) 104 Sunset Road, Oxford PA 19363.

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NOTICE

NOTICE – PENNSBURY TOWNSHIP ZONING HEARING BOARD NOTICE is hereby given that the Zoning Hear-

Andy's Lawn Care Lawn & Field Mowing Aerating & Overseeding Lawn Renovation Seasonal Cleanups Mulching Landscaping Tree & Stump Removal Lot & Land Clearing Grading & Drainage Snow Removal

(610) 274-2273 Office or (610) 721-3119 cell

ing Board of Pennsbury Township will hold a Public Hearing at the Pennsbury Township Building, 702 Baltimore Pike, Chadds Ford, Pennsylvania, on Wednesday, September 1, 2021, at 7:00 p.m. at which time the Board will hear the following matter: Application of Gabriella Petrik and Tetsu Uejima seeking a variance from the 15% maximum lot coverage limit under zoning ordinance Section 162-503.C.1 so as to permit the addition of a covered deck resulting in total impervious coverage of 19.96% on a 1.02 acre property located at 102 Anthony Way, West Chester, PA (UPI #64-1-106) in the Township’s R-2 residential zoning district. If you are

a person with a disability and wish to attend the public meeting scheduled above and require an auxiliary aide, service or other accommodation to participate in the proceedings, please contact Kathy Howley at 610-388-7323 to discuss how Pennsbury Township may best accommodate your needs.

Edward M. Foley, Solicitor Brutscher, Foley, Milliner, Land & Kelly, LLP 213 East State Street Kennett Square, PA 19348 8p-11-2t

ESTATE NOTICE

Estate of. Catania, Frances J. late of Wayne, PA. LETTERS TESTAMEN-

T L MOVING C SERVICES, LLC A personalized and friendly service specializing in packing and unpacking for house to retirement home moves.

We manage your move! www.tlcmovingservicesllc.com Caen Stroud

610-268-3243

TARY on the above estate have been granted to the undersigned, who requests all persons having claims against the estate of the decedent to make known the same and all persons indebted to the decedent to make payment without delay to: Lillian A. Catania and Vincent J. Catania, c/o Hope Bosniak, Esq., Dessen, Moses & Rossitto, 600 Easton Rd., Willow Grove, PA 19090, Co-Executors.

Dessen, Moses & Rossitto, 600 Easton Rd., Willow Grove, PA 19090 8p-18-3t

INCORPORATION NOTICE

Norris Hills GP Inc. has been incorporated under the provisions of the Pennsylvania Business Corporation Law of 1988. Capstone Law LLC 1760 Market Street, Suite 1200, Philadelphia, PA 19103 8p-18-1t

NON-PROFIT INCORPORATION NOTICE

Do it for Dave (suicide awareness and support) has been incorporated as a Pennsylvania Nonprofit pursuant to the Nonprofit Corporation Law of 1988.

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See these local businesses and many more on our website Click Directory

Trailer Repair Welding

Truck Acces.

Spray Liners

BASHER & SON 610-268-0007 • basherandson.com

Over 40 Years Experience UHAUL

Hitches

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 18, 2021

CHESTER COUNTY PRESS

5B

Chester County Press

Local News Tara Mangano joins Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Fox & Roach realtors Mary Anne Steele, a sales leader of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Fox & Roach, Realtors Chadds Ford office, recently welcomed Tara Mangano as a sales associate.

“I joined the company because Berkshire

Hathaway HomeServices Fox & Roach is the best fit for me and my career goals,” said Mangano.

“They are friendly, goaloriented and had amazing training programs to offer.

I feel valued as an agent with my broker and my

co-agents.”

Mangano is a member of the National and TriCounty Associations of Realtors and she serves Chester and Delaware counties. She resides in Unionville and is active in her community. She has

been a volunteer coach for the Unionville Recreation Association for over a decade. Mangano has a background in interior and visual design and can be contacted at 610-653-8051 or by emailing tara.mangano@foxroach.com

Tara Mangano

Obituaries

KENNETH “GREGG” MAYHART

More Obituaries on Pages 2B and 3B

RICHARD BRIAN JONES Richard Brian Jones, known as “Dickie,” died peacefully on Aug. 8 after succumbing to complications from multiple strokes he suffered in early June. He was 63.

He lived in Oxford.

Rich was born on Jan. 20,1958 in Ridley Park, Pa. to Constance and Richard Jones of Essington, Pa. He is survived by his wife of 23 years, Amy Louise (Mercer) Jones, and his sons, Dustin and Dakota.

They enjoyed living in the country in Oxford since 2000. He is also survived by his sister, Diane Jones of Essington, Pa. Diane looked up to her big brother, and she had a soft spot in Rich’s heart.

Rich was a lifetime member of the Essington Fire House in Essington, Pa. He was proud of his time served and enjoyed lifelong friendships from his years as a firefighter. He cherished being close with his father who gave 40-plus years to the fire company. Father and son also enjoyed memberships together in the local bowling league, and they also enjoyed boating and fishing. Rich had a strong commitment to his career, loved his work and co-workers and just celebrated his 35th anniversary of employment at SouthCo, Inc. in Concordville, Pa. Of all of Rich’s achievements, the most treasured was the love he had for his family. He was a devoted husband and father and made them all a priority in his life. He could not have been any more proud of his boys, Dustin and Dakota. The boys enjoyed spending

quality time with their father at an early age, as he loved teaching them how to fish and surf the waves in the ocean at the Cape Henlopen beaches.

Regular family vacations and having dinner as a family were important to Rich. To say he enjoyed watching his boys excel in lacrosse and football is an understatement. All along, Rich raised the boys to look out for their mom, to respect and love family and to be good friends to others. This was Rich.

He was a family man above all, but he also was known as a loyal friend to many. Rich’s backyard bonfires and passion for grilling the perfect barbecue often brought family and friends together. The Jones Ranch was often the familiar gathering place, where holidays were beautifully and comfortably hosted. “Rich and Amy, the perfect team,” they would say. Rich was a beloved man of the Oxford community and will be greatly missed. His smile, great sense of humor and love of people will always be remembered.

Memorial Services will be private due to COVID-19.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Rich’s honor, to Season’s Hospice & Palliative Care, 220 Continental Drive, Suite 407, Newark, Del. 19713 or to an Educational Fund being established for his two sons. Checks for that fund can be made payable to Amy Jones.

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

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

Kenneth “Gregg” Mayhart, 92, of Wilmington, Del., passed away on Aug. 4 at Foulk Manor North retirement community in Wilmington, Del. He was the husband of the late Janet Faull Mayhart, with whom he shared 57 years of marriage. Born in Wilmington, Del., he was the son of the late James Mayhart, Sr. and Marie Carr Mayhart.

Gregg graduated from Alexis I. DuPont High School in 1947. He served our country in the Army during the Korean War and was honorably discharged in 1956. He was a member of St. Joseph on the Brandywine Roman Catholic Church for many years. He was the auto sales manager for local dealerships and enjoyed spending his time boating, reading, and being with his son and grandchildren.

He will be most remembered for his wit and engaging personality.

He is survived by his son, Scott G. Mayhart, Esq. of Kennett Square, his grandchildren Garrett Mayhart and Meredith Mayhart, and many nieces and nephews.

A memorial luncheon celebrating Gregg’s life will be held at a later date.

Interment will be held privately at the Delaware Veterans Memorial Cemetery.

Arrangements are being handled by Matthew Grieco of Grieco Funeral Home & Crematory, Inc. (1800-FUNERAL).

To view his online obituary, visit www.griecofunerals. com.

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3HUHQQLDO *URZHUV ,QF Cumberland Truck Equipment Co. (CTE), a heavy-duty truck parts distributor, has an immediate opening for a full-time local Delivery Driver at our Nottingham branch location, 470 West Christine Road, Nottingham, PA 19362. Delivery driver will be delivering truck parts to customers driving a company van or box truck and working 1st shift, Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM. Applicant should have knowledge of local area and a good driving record. Hiring manager is Jim DeGeorge @ 610-932-1152.

Drug-free applicant with a clean driving record may apply at: http://www.cumberlandtruck.com/more/employment.aspx

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*UHDW 3HUHQQLDO *DUGHQV 6WDUW +HUH 29(5 9$5,(7,(6 2) 3277(' 3(5(11,$/6 2)) DOO 3(5(11,$/6 *5$66(6 IRU WKH SXEOLF

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23(1 72 7+( 38%/,& $1' 7+( 75$'(

REQUIREMENTS 18 years of age or older Able to lift unassisted up to 75 pounds, over 75 pounds assisted Have a valid driver’s license with good driving record Able to read, write and speak English Able to maintain good customer relationships High School Diploma or equivalent preferred

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES Load and unload delivery trucks Pull customer orders Deliver parts as required using company vehicle Maintain vehicle (daily check) and maintain vehicle logs

OFFERED BENEFITS • Health • Dental

• Vision • Life

• 401(k) • Vacation • Holiday pay • Others

/LPHVWRQH 5RDG 5WH &RFKUDQYLOOH 3$

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Cumberland Truck Equipment Co. (CTE) is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Veterans are encouraged to apply.

6B

CHESTER COUNTY PRESS

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 18, 2021

Kohler Crushed Stone Showers By Home Smart

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Home Smart Industries is the areas only Authorized Dealer of Kohler’s LuxStone shower wall system made of 70% real crushed marble and professionally installed at prices comparable to acrylic showers. When you have our Kohler LuxStone Design Consultants to your home for a Design Consultation, you will be given an exact, to the penny price including all labor, materials, removal, haul away, installation and permits. No surprise costs AND we honor that price for 1 year GUARANTEED. All of the design and product selection is done in your home, saving you time and ensuring the choices work perfectly with your space. We offer senior & military discounts as well as other discounts plus financing so a shower remodel is affordable on any budget. Don’t cover your problem up with a tub or shower liner. Design your bathtub or shower replacement with our trained and certified Specialists at a price you can afford.

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*Cannot be combined with any other offer. Previous sales excluded. Good at initial presentation only. $1,000 discount is only available to be used towards purchasing Luxstone walls. Additional work is extra and optional. Financing available for qualified buyers. Exp. 09/01/2021 PA:PA013302 * NJ: 13VH 04301900 MD: MD129485 * DE: 2008206060 NO PRICE QUOTES GIVEN VIA PHONE.