Former property owner criticizes township for lack of action on easement
By Richard L. Gaw Staff Writer
On Dec. 16, 2021, after several years of negotiations, the New Garden Township’s Open Space Review Board (OSRB) reached an agreement with then Landenberg resident Cindy Hiles on the purchase of the Hiles’ family’s 7.8acre property along Penn
Green Road.
For the Hiles family –Cindy, her husband Wyn and their two sons – the property was a pristine sanctuary of thick forest, echoed with the persistent chorus of the White Clay Creek and accented by a home and several small cottages. Following Wyn’s passing in 2016, Cindy set out to preserve the property as a living memory for her husband and began discussions with the OSRB and Natural Lands to determine how it could be best saved – and perhaps redefined –in perpetuity. One of the ideas discussed was to fold the Hiles property into the township’s Greenways Plan as part of a trail system in order to create an important link in the township’s vision to create an open space corridor to the White Clay Creek Preserve.
“In the memory of my husband Wyn, we are leaving this legacy behind so that the entire community can access and use it for
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The former owner of a 7.8-acre property on Penn Green Road in Landenberg that was purchased by New Garden Township in 2021 criticized the municipality at an Aug. 19 meeting for its delays in establishing a vision for the property.
hiking, fishing and birding,”
Hiles said during a township meeting to announce the agreement in January 2022. “It just felt like the right thing to do. We say that we are ‘the owners of the land,’ and while we pay taxes on our properties, I believe in my heart that we are all stewards of the land, and we need to protect it and do what we can regardless of who we are.”
To date, however, the only
visible initiative from the township has been the placement of a “No Trespassing” sign that is tethered to a chain link fence across the property’s front driveway, encouraging potential visitors to keep out.
At the Aug. 19 New Garden Township Board of Supervisors meeting, Hiles, now a resident of Newark, Del., put the township on notice that she was less than enthused by the township’s
Kennett schools to permit cell phones in classes
By Chris Barber Contributing Writer
The Kennett Consolidated School District Board unanimously approved a policy at the Aug. 12 meeting that would permit students to have cell phones in class in spite of parental comments urging the board to reject the idea.
The policy also tasks the teachers with policing phone use in their classrooms to avoid possible disruptions.
Ryan Costa, who identified himself as a parent, said he sent petitions from dozens of parents asking for phone-free classes, independence and free play.
He said he was under the
impression that the board would not be voting on the technology policy until the fall, but he became aware the issue was on the August agenda.
The board announced a request in the July meeting for parental comment on the use of electronic devices. However, the Policy Committee presented the question for vote at this August meeting without having reported a meeting or a discussion of public response since then.
Costa quoted the statement in the technology usage policy that states, “The board recognizes that mobile phones and electronic devices are now an integral part of the daily
Oxford Area School Board discusses new policies, initiatives for upcoming year
By Gabbie Burton Contributing Writer
The Oxford Area School Board held policy committee and work session meetings on Aug. 13 that provided a broad overview of the district’s important policy changes and initiatives for the upcoming 2024-2025 school year, including who will determine whether a book will be removed from a school library, student classifications and policies regarding the school district’s use of social media.
The policy committee’s meeting primarily focused on policy 6300 -- “Materials Selection Policy Library,”
that began receiving attention last spring when the school board was involved in several books being contested for removal from one of the district’s libraries. Primarily, the committee focused on who would be on the advisory committee when a book is proposed for removal. Although School Board President Jenifer Warren and member Tenille Dewees agreed that there should only be one board member on the review committee, board member Mike Blessington said that the committee should be made up of two members.
The committee then voted in favor of having the Continued on Page 4A
lives and culture of many of the district’s students.”
“Fifty years ago, that’s what they said about smoking,” he said.
He cited statements by the U.S. Surgeon General that, just as cigarettes have health warnings, so should mobile phones in light of the harms that social media can cause.
He added that the district policy states that there are instructional benefits individual technical devices serve.
“I think that is wrong and open to debate,” he said. He also said he believes it is unfair to place the teachers in positions of policing mobile phone usage. He
lack of activity on a place that had once occupied a large part of her heart.
“Throughout the process, I was told I would be involved in the future plans for the property, and I was also told that I could build and place a bench on the property in memory of my late husband,” Hiles told the board. “I would think that the township would
recognize that I am a valuable and free resource with extensive knowledge of the structures, the physical plant and the land, but they have chosen to exclude me for the last two years and eight months.” On March 20, 2023, Hiles said that she spoke at a board meeting to request progress on the property
An open letter to the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission
and Aqua Pennsylvania Wastewater Inc. (Aqua Wastewater) submitted a proposal to increase the company’s annual operating revenues for water services by $112 million and its wastewater services by an additional $14.6 million – a potential windfall for the company that could amount to $126.7 million. In response, you voted
5-0 to suspend these proposed increases as part of an investigation that has for the moment held back a cost flooding that could financially drown a sizable chunk of the 1.5 million Aqua Water customers who live in portions of the more than 200 municipalities the water giant serves throughout 32 Pennsylvania counties, and the approximately 56,000 Aqua wastewater customers in portions of more than 40 municipalities throughout 16 counties in the commonwealth. If the deal goes through, the average monthly bill for
from $81.18 to $96.10. In a company statement, Aqua wrote that the additional revenue generated from a fee hike would recover the $953 million in infrastructure investments the company plans to make through the end of 2025. It includes the replacement of approximately 200 miles of aging water main, as well as associated valves and
New Garden Township...
Continued from Page 1A
and was told that a township representative would provide her with updates.
“To date, I have not received a text, a phone call or an email from anyone affiliated with New Garden Township, another 17 months wasted,” she told the board.
Arts, heritage and nature center proposal removed from meeting agenda
In the weeks leading up to the Aug. 19 meeting, the agenda included a presentation from the New Garden Township Historical Commission that proposed an idea to convert a portion of the Hiles property to an arts, heritage and nature center. The 21-page presentation reimagined the property’s infrastructure and acreage as a future site for indoor and outdoor community events, a nature center and a potential “home” for local artisans and arts instruction
Family
By Gabbie Burton
Contributing Writer
Since April 2022, Family Forever Home Healthcare in Nottingham has been providing services to the southern Lancaster and Chester County regions.
that would be entirely managed by volunteers at no cost to the township.
The presentation was subsequently removed from the Aug. 19 agenda. In response to the proposal, Hiles said that she “overwhelmingly” supported the vision to create a “multi-functional township amenity” to New Garden.
Hiles told the board that this past weekend, she read comments that were included in the minutes from the April 19, 2024 New Garden Township Parks and Recreation board meeting, that encouraged members to keep the property “on the down low” until a plan is in place.
“I am no longer a resident of New Garden, but Landenberg and 308 [Penn Green Road] will forever be a part of my heart and soul,” Hiles said. “It is painful beyond words to see the property withered and remain closed to your community. At this point, I deeply, deeply regret my decision to partner with New Garden Township to become the newest steward
of 308 Penn Green Road.
“In my humble opinion, investigating the potential that lies untapped on these eight pristine acres along the Wild and Scenic White Clay Creek is a scale much more manageable than those projects on the Saint Anthony’s [New Garden Hills] property.” (In 2018, the township acquired the 137-acre property on Limestone Road, the site of the former St. Anthony’s in the Hills parish day camp, and is currently developing the property in phases as part of a multitiered master plan.)
After her comments, Hiles provided additional written information for township manager Christopher Himes and Mike Buck, the township’s director of Parks and Open Space.
In other township business, Himes gave a year-to-date performance report that focused on progress and initiatives being made in the following township departments: administration, community development, parks and open space and the New Garden Flying Field. Himes also provided a snapshot of the grant scenario for the Smedley Preserve, formerly the Loch Nairn Golf Club, which the township purchased in January 2023 for use as a 105-acre passiverecreation preserve.
Related to the Smedley Preserve, the board gave
‘We are the sunshine in their days’
Forever Home Healthcare
Started by Joni Rogan and her husband John, the family business also includes their daughter, Jena, who serves as one of their field supervisors and Joni’s best friend, Tammy Chew, who is the agency’s director of operations.
Over the last two years, the agency has provided companionship, meal preparation, housekeeping and hygiene to an expanding number of families throughout Chester and Lancaster counties, and while all those components are in full operation mode, it is not lost on Joni, John and Jena that Family Forever had a rather inauspicious start.
Rogan said that she did not want to open a home care business but after an experience taking care of a close client with her daughter, the family was given an opportunity they couldn’t ignore.
“My daughter and I had a mutual client and when she passed away the family gave us money to start a business,” she said.
Subsequently, Rogan and Jena brought the caregiving company they were associated with at the time on board to assist in the client’s care. When mother and daughter took off for two weeks for a family wedding, the company left the client unattended for four days.
“Luckily we were home, so the family called us, and
we went and took care of her,” Rogan said. “When Jena and I went back we quit the company and just said we couldn’t put our name to a company that would leave somebody who was 98 years old alone in their bed.”
After the client passed, the family discussed what to do with the money and while Joni admitted that she was reluctant to invest it into a new business, John – who covers the business side of the company – encouraged his wife to start Family Forever.
“I’m not a businessperson,” Rogan said. “I’m a caregiver, so I took on three more clients, put the money in a business account for three years and when my last client passed away right before we started the company, I came home and said, ‘Okay, it’s now or never.’”
Since then, Family Forever has grown to include 30 total staff currently assisting 42 clients in both counties, in prefect step with the growth of the homecare industry.
Joni said the advantage of home healthcare is the ability to have that one-on-one relationship between caregiver and client, where a caregiver can give their
approval for the township to pursue three grants for the preserve: a Greenways, Trails, and Recreation Program (GTRP) grant of $250,000.00 from the Commonwealth Financing Authority; a Multimodal Transportation Fund grant of $322,070.00 from the Commonwealth Financing Authority; and a Statewide Local Share Assessment grant of $1 million from the Commonwealth Financing Authority.
To contact Staff Writer Richard L. Gaw, email rgaw@chestercounty.com.
provides care and comfort to local families
full attention and client can benefit from interaction and personalized care.
In order to enter the client’s home and provide that comfortable and personalized care, Family Forever ensures that the client and caregiver are compatible and provides training to their employees regularly.
The state has required training and a test that each home caregiver must pass and additionally, Family Forever requires quarterly training for every caregiver in order to stay accountable and provide quality care. Field visits are also conducted during working hours to check up on the care being provided.
Beyond the technical training and responsibilities for the job there is also the
Free Seminar includes Continental Breakfast God uses us to help others, but oftentimes we do not know what to say or do. This seminar will benefit all who desire to minister the hope of Christ to those who are hurting, and includes the basics of Gospelcentered relationships and conversations. Part 1 – Living, Speaking and Serving as the
emotional side of caregiving that requires attention as well.
‘We are the sunshine in their days’
“We do a pretty intense training session on hospice cases, part of that is on when a client passes and the emotional side of dealing with that,” Joni said. “At the same time, we are being the support for the client and their family, what that looks like when it happens and the support that we offer after.” While dealing with loss may be a part of the job, it’s not something that ever gets easier.
“It’s going to be both a challenge and a process, but you have to look and see what we give them before they pass: the happy times, the smiles, the care,” Chew said. “Often, we’re doing a lot of things for them they can no longer do for themselves and we’re keeping them comfortable with dignity and respect. Sometimes we are the sunshine in their days and something to look forward to.”
Family Forever clients are not always confined to the home; with assistance from
The name of the salon mentioned in a story on Page 1B of the Aug. 14 edition of the Chester County Press was incorrect. The correct name of the salon is Hometown Roots. We apologize for any inconvenience this may have caused.
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Recently, the property was being proposed as the future site of an arts, heritage and nature center, but a presentation developed by the township’s Historical Commission for the Aug. 19 meeting was recently removed from the agenda.
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Based in Nottingham, Family Forever Home Healthcare provides home care service to families in Chester and Lancaster counties. From left to right, Sara Austin, Tammy Chew and Joni, Jena and John Rogan.
Chester County to recognize International Overdose Awareness Day with a ‘Night of Light’ event
As part of Chester County’s ongoing commitment to tackle the opioid epidemic, the county’s Department of Drug & Alcohol Services will recognize International Overdose Awareness Day on Saturday, Aug. 31.
On this day, the county will be joining communities around the world in encouraging residents, businesses, and organizations to raise awareness of overdose, reduce the stigma surrounding overdoses and drug-related deaths, remember the lives lost to overdoses, and acknowledge the grief felt by families and friends who have lost a loved one.
This year’s International Overdose Awareness Day theme, “Together We Can,” highlights the power of community when we all stand together.
As part of the recognition, 84 purple pinwheels,
the staff, they visit casinos, see friends and family and make arts and crafts.
One client was even taken out of an in-facility hospice care near the end of her life in favor of at home care before having a “complete turnaround,” and spending another four weeks with her family before passing comfortably at home.
Though home healthcare provides some benefits to clients and their families, it may not also be the best
representing 84 lives lost to accidental overdoses in Chester County in 2023, will be displayed in front of the Chester County Justice Center on Market Street in West Chester.
From August 28 through September 3, 84 pinwheels will also be displayed at the Government Services Center on Westtown Road.
On the evening of August 28, the public is invited to attend a “Night of Light” event from 6:30 to 8 p.m. held on the steps of the Historic Courthouse in West Chester.
“‘Night of Light’ is a special event that brings us all together to advocate for a future free from substance-related tragedies,” said Jamie Johnson, executive director of the Chester County Department of Drug & Alcohol Services. “It is here that we will remember the lives lost to substance
solution. Though Family Forever does offer live-in care for clients who need it, if safety is ever a concern for the client than a facility may be the best option. Additionally, Family Forever is private pay only as home healthcare is not usually covered by regular health insurance, making it a more expensive option for some families.
“We never guilt the family into keeping their loved ones at home,” Rogan said.
use disorders and bring hope to those working towards long-term recovery.
“The event helps to support those in need, foster understanding and compassion, and promote awareness of the resources available for Chester County residents.”
‘Night of Light’ will feature local resource tables, several keynote speakers, and a luminary ceremony to honor loved ones lost and those working towards long-term recovery.
“While it is worth noting that the number of accidental overdose deaths in Chester County has reduced from 111 in 2022 to 84 in 2023, one life lost is still one too many,” Johnson said, echoing the county's message that says, “recovery works, treatment is available, and people do recover from substance use disorders.” For more information on the Night of Light event, visit www.chesco.org/ DrugandAlcohol. And for more information and
“It’s sad because I would love to take everybody that comes in but financially it’s a strain on people.”
Though many aspects of the job can be emotional and complicated, the Family Forever team seems to focus on the positives and appreciate each client and experience individually.
“The clients are so thankful for the care we are giving them, but they have absolutely no idea that they are, in fact, are teaching us
and giving back more than we give to them,” Rogan said.
To learn more about Family Forever Home Healthcare, call (717) 955-0245, email familyforeverhhc@gmail.com or visit www.familyforeverhealthcare.com.
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Chester County will recognize International Overdose Awareness Day with a spe-
cial Night of Light event on the Historic Courthouse Steps on August 28. As part of the recognition, 84 purple pinwheels, representing 84 lives lost to accidental overdose in 2023 will be displayed.
Family Forever Home Healthcare provides a family’s loved ones with superb end-of-life care that is strengthened by a sense of compassion.
Cell phones...
Continued from Page 1A the policy earlier in the meeting saying that she is opposed to phones in class because they are disruptive and can lead to social isolation.
urged the board not to make a decision until they have researched the effects of social media, read up on the subject, and engaged in discussions with parents.
District resident Monica Strauser also spoke against
Oxford School Board...
Continued from Page 1A
review committee made up of two members.
Considerable time during the meeting was occupied by Blessington’s argument that books in the young adult genre are not appropriate, as students in the schools are “adolescents” and not “adults,” while Warren and Dewees clarified that the
For the board members’ part, Jeff McVey said he wanted to make sure that they were discussing phones exclusively when they voted,
“young adult” classification is from publishers and refers to books written for the adolescent age group and is not the district saying children in schools are actual adults.
“That’s a publisher’s definition of a ‘young adult,’ and that’s how they categorize the books,” Dewees said. “We can’t change that for the policy just because you don’t like referring to kids as young adults when it’s the way the entire industry
and not the overall collection of technical communication devices and computers.
Board member Michael Finnegan said he wanted to assure everyone that there would be continued discussion and re-evaluation by December.
In other business, District CFO Mark Tracy presented
calls it.”
This discussion did not end in a vote on any edits to the policy.
The policy committee also reviewed policy 1190 -- “District use of social media,” and decided not to disable comments under district posts, as a possible previous edit suggested.
“We can’t shut down the ability to post due to First Amendment,”
Superintendent David
the results of bidding for the building of new Greenwood Elementary School. He said the bids came in lower than expected.
The district awarded the general construction bid to Boro Construction for $32.2 million, to Tri County Mechanical for mechanical construction for $6.1 mil-
Woods said. “We can monitor our page for disparaging, harmful or harassing information.”
After the policy committee was completed, the work session began with the proposal of becoming a Unified Champion School, submitted by Athletics Director Amber Stirling and Dr. Chad Kinsey, director of Special Education. The Unified Champion Schools is a program through the
lion, to Schipsi Electrical for $5.4 million, and Dolan Mechanical for plumbing for $2.8 million.
Education bidding requirements and the recommended lowest responsible bidder have met all of the criteria specified by the district, according to Tracy’s report. The total
Special Olympics that would implement a track and field program in the high school where the team would be made up of 40 percent disabled students, 40 percent non-disabled and 20 percent according to the school’s preference of student-athletes, in order to promote social inclusion through sports. This presentation was an introduction to the board and a decision as to whether to implement it will be made
cost of construction is $46.6 million.
Tracy also reported that the Kennett Square Borough ordinances for the planned high school sign on the front lawn at the corner of Union and South streets had been met. It is moving along, he said, but the process is slow.
at a later date. Additional items on the agenda included Superintendent Woods’ goals for the upcoming school year, the 2024-2025 school handbooks and President Warren’s board goals – all of which was reviewed with little discussion. On Aug. 20, a special meeting will be held to appoint a new school board director to fill a vacancy left by previous member Kaitlin Bell.
Oxford Educational Foundation recognizes efforts of school staff and volunteers
Continuing a wonderful tradition, the Oxford Educational Foundation (OEF) recently held its annual breakfast to honor the staff and volunteers in the Oxford Area School District.
The event, co-sponsored by the OEF and Oxford Area Educational Association, included the presentation of both a volunteer award and the John Pittenger Building Grant. The OEF showed its appreciation for its classroom volunteers, mentors, and tutors who work in the Oxford Area School District. These dedicated
volunteers gave numerous hours of their time to benefit the students of the district.
Highlighting the event was the presentation of the Randy Sebastian Volunteer Person (RSVP) Award. Mr. Sebastian was a veteran, local lawyer, and founding member of OEF and also served as a volunteer. This coveted award has gone to retirees, volunteer parents, and community members. This year, the recipient is Nicole Prinsloo, an Oxford High School alumni. Prinsloo graduated from Oxford Area High School in 2002. Dr. Ray Fischer was
her first-grade principal, so it was fitting for Prinsloo to join him and the OEF as a volunteer. In 2022, she was asked to be a board member for the Oxford Educational Foundation, and she has served for the past two years.
Prinsloo has had a longtime interest in helping children, dating back to the time she was a swim instructor at the local YMCA. She also worked at a summer camp, and assisted the preschool program at Octorara during her college years.
Prinsloo attended Millersville University and
obtained a degree in elementary education with a specialization in early childhood, and then added an ESL certification before graduating in 2006.
She began her teaching career at the Avon Grove Intermediate School as an ESL teacher. Prinsloo has been a tremendous help with the ESL students at Elk Ridge, Penn’s Grove and more permanently at Hopewell Elementary School. She has volunteered in both her children’s classrooms. She has many more volunteer hours to give as her children are only going into 7th and 10th grades.
The award has a special meeting for Prinsloo. As a best friend of Melinda Sebastian, she spent considerable time with the family, including Randy, the award’s namesake.
Another high point of the event was the presentation of the John C. Pittinger Grant. Mr. Pittinger was Pennsylvania Secretary of Education from 1972 to 1976, a Rutgers University of Law School Dean from 1981 to 1986, and a founding member of the OEF, where he also served as president.
The foundation honors his work and his memory by awarding a building grant to the OASD school that has a grant request that best exemplifies the mission of enhancing the education of the students in the OASD. After going through a twotier process, the OEF has awarded two John Pittenger Grants this year.
The first grant was awarded to Jordan Bank Elementary School for its proposal— Play That Moves Your Imagination for Kindergarten Career Readiness. The purpose of this initiative is to reimagine recess as a platform for children to engage with various career paths, enhancing learning opportunities while prioritizing the value of play. By offering hands-on experiences at different stations, children will delve into roles like firefighters, chefs, doctors, builders, artists, and beyond. Each station will be furnished with props, materials, and activities specifically designed to simulate real-world scenarios associated with different professions, fostering curiosity, and laying the groundwork for future exploration and learning.
The
Pittenger Grant was awarded to Elk
Ridge Elementary. The purpose of the grant is to help the school create a more inviting space for students when they have recess and to increase the activities that they can access during this time. The grant will provide more equipment for the students to use which would include some updated playground equipment, a storage cart, portable basketball hoops, outdoor benches, and paint or templates for blacktop or cement areas. Several existing outdoor benches will be repainted.
The OEF recognizes that its work in support of the Oxford Area School District is made possible through its volunteers and the generosity of the Oxford community. As the OEF Board of Directors makes its plans for the upcoming 20242025 school year, won’t you please consider joining the more than 140 volunteers by becoming an OEF volunteer? Opportunities can be tailored to your specific interests and time in becoming a classroom volunteer, mentor, or tutor. If interested please contact Dr. Ray Fischer, executive director at 717- 947-0075 email at rfischer@oxfordeducationalfoundation.org or Kim Lewin, volunteer coordinator at 610-932-7200 or email at coordinator@ oxfordeducationalfoundation.org. Please visit the website for more information regarding the OEF at www.oxfordeducationalfoundation.org.
Dr. David Woods, OASD Superintendent of Schools, Matthew Hovanec, Elk Ridge Elementary School Principal, Dr. Ray Fischer, OEF executive director, Steve Roberts, OEF president gathered at the presentation where Elk Ridge Elementary School received a John C. Pittinger Grant.
second
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The Randy Sebastian Volunteer Person Award recipient Nicole Prinsloo, who is pictured with Dr. David Woods, OASD Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Ray Fischer, OEF executive director, Kim Lewin, OEF volunteer coordinator, and Steve Roberts, OEF President.
The Jordan Bank Elementary School received a John C. Pittinger Grant. Pictured are Dr. David Woods, OASD Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Dave Hamburg, Jordan Bank Elementary School Principal, Dr. Ray Fischer, OEF executive director, and Steve Roberts, OEF President.
customer service lines, throughout the approximately 5,900-mile distribution system.
Within that statement, Aqua President Marc Lucca said that in order to help pay for these improvements, the company has secured approximately $32 million in state grants and low-interest loans and have an additional pending request for nearly $85 million to benefit its customers. The source of contention among Aqua customers is that the remainder is being asked to come from the customers themselves – this on the heels of a ten percent water rate and 35 percent wastewater hike two years ago.
The five of you were right to order an investigation of this proposal, and if the overflow audience at the Aug. 8 public input hearing at New Garden Township Building was indicative of the other eight hearings held in Luzerne, Montgomery and Delaware counties from Aug. 1 to 12, the windfall of protest that came from those events has created a galvanized unification of collected voices throughout southeastern Pennsylvania that has only just begun to reign down on Aqua.
While administrative law judge Alphonso Arnold III gave those who testified at the New Garden hearing a fair and balanced opportunity, he and representatives from other agencies present – as well as two Aqua attorneys – heard the equivalent of a dam that can no longer hold back the rising waters of public outrage. They were the thunderous roar of civil protest and the awakening of a sleeping giant; each of those who testified came armed with emotions, kitchen-table payments and fact after fact after fact that condemned that acts of a for-profit company whose business plan calls for the spending of millions in infrastructure improvements together with the brazen audacity to stick their customers with the bill – “to dig deeper into their pockets for a basic necessity – our public water,” State Sen. John Kane told Arnold on Aug. 8.
Here are my bills, they told Arnold.
Here is my fixed income.
Here is my decision to choose between water and medicine.
Here is my shrinking happiness.
Here is the reality that is slowly telling me that someday I will no longer be able to afford to live here.
Here is the vanishing fabric of my community.
As members of the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission, you are charged with the responsibility to balance the needs of consumers; ensure safe and reliable utility service at reasonable rates; protect the public interest; educate consumers to make independent and informed utility choices; further economic development; and foster new technologies and competitive markets in an environmentally sound manner.
In the coming months, as you carefully weigh the opinions of administrative law judges Arnold and Gail M. Chiodo, we ask that you render your final argument by placing your duties as commissioners as the chief barometers of that ultimate decision. The fate of an entire region – its economies, its townships, its families, its businesses and its social fabric – will in the next few months come down to whether you as a commission support the people of the Commonwealth for whom you serve, or the exploits of a company that pursues price gouging under the big umbrella of community reinvestment.
Should you summarily reject Aqua’s proposal on Feb. 25, 2025, your decision will go a very long way to lighten the fear of a resident finding himself or herself at that kitchen table being asked to dig even deeper into a wallet that has already been swallowed unfairly by rising expenses.
Should you approve Aqua’s rate increase, however, your decision will lead to a mass exodus from small towns and villages by residents who realize that they can no longer afford to live as a pawn on a board game of monopoly. The accordion fold of southeastern Pennsylvania will begin, and the tumbledown of its residual ferocity will burn in your consciences until you will no longer be able to hear anything but the sound of your own regret. Choose wisely.
Guest Column
What can Pa. lawmakers do about a looming regional power shortage?
By Terry Fitzpatrick
What can Pennsylvania lawmakers do about a looming regional power shortage that they didn’t cause and can’t easily fix? This dilemma poses the most important energy issue facing the commonwealth.
PJM Interconnection — which operates the regional electric grid serving 13 states and the District of Columbia — issued a report last year warning that, under current trends, there may not be enough electric generating capacity to keep the lights on by 2028-2030. The problem results from a combination of circumstances. First, demand for electricity is growing due to the proliferation of electric vehicles and data centers that power artificial intelligence.
At the same time, coal and natural gas-fired power plants that are work horses of the grid are retiring prematurely because of the climate policies of some states (not Pennsylvania)
and the federal government that discourage or ban fossil-fuel power plants and give preferential treatment to renewable energy. As a result, PJM’s interconnection queue now consists almost entirely of renewable energy and battery projects. These technologies alone can’t replace the reliability value of power plants capable of operating around the clock.
Pennsylvania’s energy policies have not caused this problem. We generate more electricity than any other state in PJM, and we have not forced the closure of natural gas and coal plants. Our renewable energy requirements are modest — 8 percent of the electricity we use — which should be enough to kick-start these technologies in what was intended to be a free market.
What can lawmakers in Pennsylvania do to avoid a supply shortage? The best solution would be for other states and the federal government to moderate their
climate policies to preserve reliable electricity supplies. But Pennsylvania lawmakers can’t control those decisions, and these other jurisdictions show no sign of changing course.
Given this reality, any solution Pennsylvania lawmakers pursue will be second-best. Since the restructuring of the electric industry in Pennsylvania over two decades ago, we have relied on incentives in PJM’s wholesale markets to ensure enough power plants were built to guarantee adequate electricity supplies. That worked until recently, but we now face the prospect that these markets have been damaged and can no longer be relied on to ensure adequate supplies. To keep the lights on, it may unfortunately become necessary for the government to intervene in the market to support power plants capable of operating 24/7 to offset the mandates and subsidies given to renewable energy.
Financial Focus
While this problem is being studied and solutions debated, every piece of energy legislation in the General Assembly should be judged by how it affects the problem of prematurely retiring power plants and maintaining reliable electricity supplies. The first law of holes is if you find yourself in one, stop digging.
PA and a former chairman of the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission.
529 plan can help ease college ‘sticker
The school year will soon be here. And if you have young children, you’re one year closer to the day when they may be headed off to college. When that day arrives, will you be financially prepared?
College isn’t cheap. For the 2023–24 academic year, the average cost — including tuition, fees, housing, food, books, transportation and other expenses — was nearly $29,000 for in-state students at four-year public colleges and universities, and about $60,000 for private schools, according to the College Board. Most students do get some type of financial aid or scholarships, or both, but even the “net” price of college can be considerable. So, it’s a good idea to begin a savings program as early as you can.
One popular way to build money for college expenses is through a 529 education savings plan. When you invest in a 529 plan, your earnings can grow tax deferred and your withdrawals are federally tax free when used for qualified education expenses — tuition, fees, books and so on. And while you can invest in any state’s 529 plan, you might be able to
deduct your contributions from your state income tax or receive a state tax credit if you invest in your own state’s plan.
Despite these tax benefits, some people are concerned that a 529 plan can prove costly in terms of lost financial aid. And the value of a 529 plan is looked at as an investment asset on the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). However, recent changes to FAFSA may mean that a 529 plan has a relatively small effect on the amount of aid you may receive.
A 529 plan also can be used to pay for other costs, including:
• K-12 expenses: You can use a 529 plan to pay K-12 expenses, up to $10,000 per student per year. Not all states comply with this 529 expansion for K-12, so you might not be able to claim deductions and your withdrawals could be subject to state tax penalties.
• Apprenticeship programs: A 529 plan can be used to pay for most expenses connected to apprenticeship programs registered with the U.S. Department of Labor. These programs are often available at community colleges and combine
shock’
classroom education with on-the-job training.
• Student loans: You can withdraw funds from a 529 plan to repay qualified federal private and student loans, up to $10,000 for each 529 plan beneficiary and another $10,000 for each of the beneficiary’s siblings.
Another potential advantage of a 529 plan is its transferability. If you’ve named a child as a 529 plan beneficiary, and that child eventually chooses not to pursue any post-secondary education, you — as the account owner — can name another family member as beneficiary. And with the passage of the SECURE 2.0 Act, any unused 529 plan funds up to a lifetime limit of $35,000 can be transferred to a Roth IRA for a beneficiary, free of taxes and penalties. There are certain rules governing this 529-to-Roth move — for example, you must have had your 529 plan at least 15 years — so you’ll want to consult with your tax advisor before making any moves in this area.
If you’d like to invest in your children’s future education, a 529 plan can be a good choice — so study up on it soon.
Joe Oliver
This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor, Joe Oliver. Joe Oliver is a lifelong Oxfordian, husband, father, and financial advisor with Edward Jones Investments. Joe services business owners and individual investors by helping them accomplish their financial goals. For a complimentary financial consultation, connect with Joe at Joe.Oliver@ Edwardjones.com.
Joe Oliver, CFP,AAMS Financial Advisor 2250 Baltimore Pike Oxford, Pa. 19363 484-702-9311 www.edwardjones.com/ joe-oliver Edward Jones, Member SIPC
Strengthening our Belief System
By Marie-Louise Meyers
There is a strong current of disbelief among the young in this country, while the older generation learned to navigate between right and wrong, respect of the principles laid down by our forefathers and the faith which takes us even into Old Age. Without the young supporting our goals, we can lose control of the precepts by which we once
lived. No matter how you’re leaning, right, left or in-between without the support of democratic principles, you’re voice will not be heard nor will we as a country be saved from infiltration of those who violate and make mockery of the Land of the Free and Home of the Brave with little support for our military,
especially for those who suffered or died in freedom’s cause. Is the price tag too high for some to pay do others feel bereft, left out, unwilling to take up the cudgel of citizenship spinning hope and fortitude for the long hard road ahead instead just looking for a hand-out instead.
When my grandchildren were young, I created a narrative
called the “Enchanted Valley” where Fraidy Fox and the Wise Old Owl devised a Universal Tongue to create a Peaceful Valley among the diverse population who couldn’t agree on anything. Each in their own right became stronger in the unity.
Maybe we need to do that in real time now to keep our country united and strong!
Courtesy photo Terry Fitzpatrick
Terry Fitzpatrick is the President and CEO of the Energy Association of
Mushroom Festival contributions make a big difference for seniors
By Chris Barber Contributing Writer
The Kennett Area Senior Center runs on a shoestring budget, but for many in the Kennett area it is a lifeline.
The senior center is one of 40 local non-profits that benefit from annual contributions by the Mushroom Festival.
Last year the center received $1,900 as its part of the total $77,000 the festival gave out. Over the years, more than $1 million has been given to local agencies from the festival.
Mushroom Festival Coordinator Gale Ferranto said that while the activities of the event excite her, she gets the greatest satisfaction from distributing the proceeds to local non-profits each year.
“This year’s festival theme is ‘Spawning Future Growth,’ which encapsulates our dedication to nurturing not just the delicious and healthy fungi that we grow but also supporting
The 2024 Kennett Square Mushroom Festival takes place on Sept. 7 and 8. In the weeks leading up to the event, the Chester County Press will be publishing the Mushroom Festival Guide and stories about the impact the mushroom industry has on the area. The theme for the 39th annual event is Spawning Future Growth, and this week we look at the positive impact a Mushroom Festival grant provides to the Kennett Area Senior Center.
the future of our community,” the Mushroom Festival website said.
The Senior Center, which sits at mid-block of South Walnut Street in the borough, operates on an annual budget of less than $400,000 according to executive director Stephanie D’Amico. Its major funding comes from the Chester County Department of Aging which supports all the senior centers in the county. The department sends Kennett $84,000 annually. Occasionally in times of emergency like the COVID-
19 pandemic, it sends a modest, and unexpected supplement, D’Amico said.
By Betsy Brewer Brantner Contributing Writer
Bonnie Barlow turned 100 years old on August 8. She enjoyed a beautiful birthday party at Luther House, where it was standingroom-only for the festive celebration.
One of her friends, Marie Sweeney, was quick to say, “The best thing about Bonnie is, she is still Bonnie.”
And if you ask any of the friends she has made in the 14 years she has lived at Luther House, they would all agree.
One of the first things you notice about Bonnie is her beautiful smile. According to her daughter, Shirley, she is seldom seen when she is not smiling. That is what her friends at Luther see. Smiling just seems second nature to
her, and she does give everyone around her a smile to make their day brighter.
A cheery disposition has helped her through every obstacle in her life. She freely gave that good cheer to the hundreds of residents that she cared for at Pocopson Home. She worked as a nurses aide for 32 years, and certainly made every day brighter for anyone else that worked there.
Bonnie and her late husband were part of the “Greatest Generation.”
As such, they were born between 1901 and 1927. They lived through the Great Depression and the 1940s, and many of them fought or helped with the war effort during World War II.
The term, Greatest Generation, was also highlighted by a 1998 book of the same name by American journalist Tom Brokaw. In
“I didn’t have $1,900,” she said.
She added she put in a request to the festival and received the funds needed.
Continuing on such a limited income, D’Amico and her staff are constantly working on projects to bring in more support. Among other things they have an annual golf tournament, donations from the local municipalities and the United Way, “indoor” yard sales, fees for facility rental and grants from individuals. She gave an example of how important the Mushroom Festival grants are. She said the center had been struggling with an aging and obsolete website. They needed $1,900 to upgrade it.
In the year preceding, she received funding for 30 chairs from the festival.
“You know, chairs are expensive,” she said. “We appreciate them beyond belief. When you are worried all the time about keeping services in place, to have support like the Mushroom Festival is great.”
She added that the Mushroom Festival funding application process for support is “user-friendly,” and she appreciates that.
The Kennett Area Senior Center was founded in 1971 by late Dr. Leonard Kanofsky with the support of his fellow Rotary Club members.
Kanofsky recognized that
there was a segment of the local population whose needs were not being met as they were aging. Some older residents were experiencing, among other things, declining health, less income, less participation in local leadership, the loss of driving privileges, an increased probability of distance from or loss of family, and limited affordability for programs and education, among others.
Carol Wendel was the original director of the senior center, and the members met in the cellar of Kennett Square Presbyterian Church several times a week.
In 1986 the senior center purchased the building on South Walnut Street, which has two large activity rooms, several smaller gathering spaces, office space and an upstairs storage area. Its programs these days are free, which is important considering that more than one-quarter of the members
reported being low income. The center is open five days a week from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sometimes there are weekend or evening events. The programs include, but are not limited to, Silver Sneakers exercise, weight loss, mental fitness, afternoon card playing, photography class, ancestral history, dancing, free produce, Medicare applications and tax preparation, informational lectures, holiday celebrations and individual attention. Lunch is provided every day for a small fee, and is free for those who cannot afford it.
ChescoConnect affordable bus system is available for seniors who do not have access to their own cars or drivers’ licenses.
“We provide a unique community resource in which people can gather. We do that through programs, and the [atmosphere] is welcoming and personal,” D’Amico said.
Bonnie Barlow celebrates 100th birthday
that book, Brokaw profiled American members of this generation who came of age during the Great Depression and went on to fight in World War II, as well as those who contributed to the war effort on the home front. Brokaw wrote that, “These men and women didn’t fight for fame or recognition, but because it was the “right thing to do.”
Doing what was right might seem like an alien concept today, but back then doing the right thing was what you did. For instance, there was always a plate available at Bonnie’s table for anyone that stopped by. There was no need to call ahead to visit and you could always count on being served whatever food was available. Bonnie gave her all to those she cared for at Pocopson, and for her husband and three daughters.
There were eight people in her family that grew up in Ashe County, N.C.. Having been born on August 8, 1924, she was born just after the 1917 Spanish Flu Pandemic was ending and survived the C OVID-19 pandemic nearly 100 years later.
They also experienced much of their youth with rapid technological innovation including the radio, telephone, and automobile. They also lived at a time of growing levels of worldwide income inequality and an unpredictable economy. After the stock market crashed and the economy stumbled, this generation experienced profound economic and social turmoil.
Despite those hardships, or because of them, literature, arts, music, and cinema of the period flourished. This generation experienced
what is commonly referred to as the “Golden Age of Hollywood.”
Like the saying goes, “What doesn’t kill you will make you stronger.” Bonnie was a strong woman, as so many women had to be during that era. Many women were called to work during World War II because the men were fighting a war, but when the men came home from the war, women stepped aside and came back to serve on the home front.
Shirley remembers her mother as being “forgiving and loving.”
Bonnie has enjoyed her life, and she really liked quilting and other crafts, and staying in her camper in Florida. She still enjoys her life at Luther House, occasionally enjoying a rousing game of Bingo, a holiday meal, or celebrating someone else’s birthday.
The smile captured on her face at her 100th birthday party says it all: life is still fun and Bonnie is still Bonnie.
To her many friends at Luther House that is important and that is her ongoing gift to them – just being Bonnie.
The original senior center location at the Presbyterian Church moved following the purchase of the building on South Walnut Street in 1986.
All photos by Chris Barber Kennett Square’s Mushroom Festival will return for the 39th time on Sept. 7 and 8.
The senior center serves lunch every day at a very low cost or a free lunch for those who cannot afford the cost.
There is plenty of fun at the annual Mushroom Festival.
Last year the Mushroom Festival provided funding for 30 new chairs for the senior center.
Courtesy photo Bonnie Barlow is still smiling at 100 years old.
JOSEPH JOHN BOYD, SR.
Joseph John Boyd, Sr., 64, of Nottingham, passed away on Aug. 4, 2024 while at home.
He was born in Philadelphia, the son of the late Al and Dorothy King Boyd.
Joseph was a veteran of the U.S. Navy.
He was employed as a truck driver by D & K Graham Trucking, Inc. in Christiana, Pa.
Joseph enjoyed camping, fishing, and spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren.
He is survived by two children, Joseph John Boyd, Jr. (Heather) of Montrose, Iowa and Amanda Cummings (Scotty) of Peach Bottom, nine grandchildren, and two siblings, Kerri Isenstadt of Baltimore and Patrick Boyd of Oxford.
Services are private.
Arrangements are being handled by the Edward L. Collins, Jr. Funeral Home, Inc. in Oxford. Online condolences may be made at www.elcollinsfuneralhome.com.
BRIAN D. LOVE
Brian D. Love, of Newark, Del., passed away on August 13, 2024 at Einstein Medical Center in Philadelphia. He was 47. Born in Wilmington, Del., he was the son of Judith Kepler Love of Newark, Del. and the late Walter C. Love.
Brian loved NASCAR, professional wrestling and comics. He was an avid fan of the Philadelphia Eagles and the Philadelphia Phillies.
He is survived by his mother, one sister, Krista Benjamin (Chris) of Newark, Del., one brother, Larry Love of Newark, Del., and one nephew, Will Benjamin.
Services will be private.
Arrangements are being handled by the Edward L. Collins, Jr. Funeral Home, Inc. in Oxford. Online condolences may be made at www.elcollinsfuneralhome.com.
Obituary submissions
The Chester County Press publishes obituaries free of charge for funeral homes with active advertising accounts only. Others with a connection to southern Chester County are charged a modest fee. Obituaries appear on the Wednesday after they are received with a Monday
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.
GERALD T. COX
Gerald Townsend Cox, a resident of Port Richey, Fla. and formerly of Nottingham, passed away on May 4, 2024 while surrounded by his loving family. He was 85. He was born on July 28, 1938 in West Grove, the only child of Townsend P. and Laura Gill Cox. He graduated from Oxford Area High School in 1956.
For 30 years, he owned and operated Gerald T. Cox Garage in Elim, Pa. His joyful laugh and readiness to help others will long be remembered.
He is survived by Nancy (Wells) Cox, his wife of 64 years; a son, Gerald, Jr., and wife Lyndal of Australia; a daughter, Tammy Buchheister and fiancé’ Phil Resta of Spring Hill, Fla.; grandsons, Nicholas and Zachary Cox and Cameron and T.J. Buchheister; and a granddaughter, Maysie Buchheister.
Also surviving are Gerald’s “adopted sister” Janet Lloyd, a niece, Betsy Longenecker, a brother-in-law, James Wells, Jr. and his wife Judy, and other extended family.
He was preceded in death by his parents and a son, Kevin James Cox.
A celebration of life will be held at the United Methodist Church in Oxford at 2 p.m. on Sunday, September 1. All are invited to join the time of remembrance.
Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.
For more information or to place an ad, contact Brenda Butt at 610-869-5553 ext. 10
ROBERT CAMERON CRAW, JR.
Robert Cameron Craw, Jr., of Kennett Square, suffered a fatal heart attack at home on August 6, 2024. He was 73.
He was the loving husband of Diane (DiGiovanni) Craw, with whom he shared 44 years of marriage.
Born and raised in Inglewood, Calif., he was the son of the late Robert C. Craw, Sr. and the late Carroll (Slack) Craw.
Rob was born with a congenital heart defect. He underwent open-heart surgery at seven years old at UCLA Medical Center. It was one of the earliest surgeries of its kind in the United States, only four years after the invention of the heart-lung machine. He was not expected to live beyond his teenage years. Despite this early trauma, Rob was determined to live a full life.
During his family’s camping vacations in Sequoia National Park, he would often spend entire days fishing by himself. He was a natural athlete and participated in high school pole vaulting and football. As a young adult, he played in a semi-pro softball league and drove funny cars and dragsters at national events. He was quite a source of what he deprecatingly called “useless information” – movie, television and sports trivia. He said it was from so much time spent in the hospital watching TV.
Professionally, Rob was a certified automotive technician for Alfa Romeo. He met his wife, Diane, while servicing her 1974 Alfa Romeo in Hollywood. He met and befriended several other Alfa Romeo and Ferrari owners, including many in the music business, notably staff and members of the band Journey. He even arranged for a body shop to paint their grand piano red.
Later, when he moved to the East Coast, Rob continued to work on Alfa Romeos, Ferraris, Fiats and other Italian sports cars on the Main Line. Diane’s classic Alfa, now 50 years old, is still in mint condition thanks to Rob’s expertise and care over the past half century.
In his thirties, Rob took up golf, changed careers and ultimately became a professional golf instructor. Others often described him as a born mentor and an insightful teacher. He had an intuitive gift for understanding people and he did his best to help them through their challenges.
Rob was happy to become part of Diane’s Italian family circle. He enjoyed being with and helping the elders and developed close relationships with Diane’s siblings, nieces and nephews. He loved children and they in turn often gravitated to him. He loved animals, especially Irish Setters. He received his first one at age seven after being discharged from the hospital. He and Diane went on to raise six Irish Setters over the years. Their current one is named, “Finn,” and was Rob’s loyal companion.
As a multi-talented person, Rob had an innate artistic ability. He was always sketching and doodling, frequently personalizing family birthday cards with his cartoons. He was an inventor and loved tinkering with his tools and making something new of out something old. He loved orchids; If anyone’s orchid was not doing well, he would take it and nurse it back to health.
Rob was a generous, kind, thoughtful, and caring person. He will be remembered for being a man with a big heart who was always willing to step in and help anyone in need. He was like a little kid in a big man’s body and will be dearly missed by all those who knew and loved him.
In addition to his wife, Rob is survived by his sister, Carroll Purvis, his brother, James Cameron (Jane), stepsisters, Michele and Shannon McGowen, and several cherished nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, Rob was predeceased by his stepmother, Janice (McGowan) Craw.
You are invited to visit with Rob’s family and friends from 11 a.m. to noon on Monday, September 16 at the Kennett Square Golf and Country Club at 100 East Locust Lane in Kennett Square.
His celebration of life will follow at noon. Interment will be held privately.
In lieu of flowers, gifts can be made in memory of Robert C. Craw Jr., to First Tee of Greater Philadelphia, 800 Walnut Lane, Philadelphia, Pa. 19128 by check or online https://firstteephiladelphia.org.
Arrangements are being handled by Matthew Grieco of Grieco Funeral Home & Crematory, Inc. (484-7348100) of Kennett Square.
To view Rob’s online obituary and leave condolences, please visit www.griecofunerals.com.
MARY ELIZABETH MUNDELL
Mary Elizabeth Mundell, known as Betty, the wife of Samuel James Mundell Jr, died on Aug. 4, 2024 after a long illness. She was born in Manchester, Conn. to Mary Eileen Winch and Eugene Christy Winch. Betty grew up in West Willington, Conn., and graduated from Rockville High School and then Drexel University in 1962, with degrees in home economics and English. She went on to teach at Folcroft Junior High School and Garnet Valley High School. She retired in 1996.
In 1997, Betty and Jim signed up to move to Jenner’s Pond Retirement Community, moving into their newly built cottage in December of 1999. Betty was a quilter and made everything from table runners to bed quilts. Betty enjoyed traveling and visiting many of the U.S. national parks. Her favorite place to visit was Alaska and she went there a total of nine times. In 1992, as an addon excursion on a trip to Alaska, she and Jim flew over to Eastern Russia and traveled on the Trans-Siberian Railway before returning to Alaska.
Other travel spots were Manitoba, Canada to see the polar bears, the Galapagos Islands, Machu Picchu, the Antarctic to walk among the penguins, a cruise of the Arctic Northwest Passage from Alaska to Greenland to New York City, and Germany to see the Passion Play at Oberammergau. The highlight of their travel was eight world cruises on Princess Cruises, and they visited all seven continents.
Betty is survived by her husband, Jim; her sister-in-law, Dottie Kaiser and her husband, Roger; two nephews, Roger A. Kaiser and wife, Donna and Douglas S. Kaiser; her friend, Sherry; a niece, Wendy J. Covington, and her husband Darryl; along with grandnephews and nieces.
You are invited to visit with Betty’s family and friends from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. on Saturday, September 7 at West Grove United Methodist Church, 300 North Guernsey Road in West Grove. Her memorial service will follow at 11 a.m.
In lieu of flowers, a gift in her memory can be made to the Mundell Fund at Jenner’s Pond, 2000 Greenbriar Lane in West Grove or to West Grove United Methodist Church, 300 N. Guernsey Road in West Grove.
Arrangements are being handled by Matthew Grieco of Grieco Funeral Home & Crematory, Inc. (484-7348100) of Kennett Square.
To view Betty’s online obituary and leave condolences, please visit www.griecofunerals.com.
Blevins named United Way of Chester County’s director of community impact initiatives
United Way of Chester County recently announced the appointment of Amanda Blevins as the new director of community impact initiatives.
In this role, Blevins will be instrumental in advancing the objectives of community impact, including fund distribution, agency relations, community relations, community initiatives, advocacy efforts, information
and referral, and volunteer engagement, all to meet the strategic goals of United Way of Chester County.
“We are thrilled to have Amanda join our team,” said Christopher Saello, president and CEO of United Way of Chester County. “Her expertise in nonprofit development and community engagement will be invaluable as we continue to expand our impact in Chester County. We look
NOTICE: DEStorage.com Newgarden
Located at 710 Newark Rd Landenberg, PA 19350
Will be holding a Public ONLINE Auction at www.ibid4storage.com
Closing on September 18, 2024 at 10 AM. The following units will be sold because of nonpayment of rent pursuant to the Pennsylvania Self Service Storage Facilities Act. Auction bidding and additional information about the contents, including photographs, is available on www.ibid4storage.com. Sale and payment will take place at the storage facility. Containing: Furniture, household items, totes, clothing, and boxes
Unit # 1240 - Hollie Anderson
Unit # 2033 – Brandon Beard DEStorage.com Newgarden reserves the right to withdraw any storage unit from sale or cancel the sale without prior notice.
ESTATE NOTICE
Estate of Joyce Carol Farkas, late of Exton, 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 Jeffrey Farkas, Executor, 27 Manor Lane, Morris Plains NJ 07950 8p-7-3t
ESTATE NOTICE
ESTATE OF VIRGINIA C.
MELRATH, LATE OF Oxford, 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 SUSAN MELRATH, Executor C/O Attorney: Ira D. Binder, 227 Cullen Rd, Oxford, PA 19363 8p-7-3t
ESTATE NOTICE
ESTATE OF ANNA J. GREEN, LATE OF Oxford, PA, LETTERS TESTAMENTARY on the above
forward to seeing the positive contributions she will bring to our organization and the community.”
Blevins brings extensive experience in nonprofit development and community engagement to her new role. She has held key positions at local nonprofits throughout Chester County. In these roles, she successfully developed and executed fundraising strat-
egies, managed community outreach programs, fostered partnerships, and oversaw external communications.
Blevins’ dedication and expertise have consistently resulted in increased funding, enhanced community relations, and greater organizational impact.
Having lived in northern Chester County for the majority of her life, Blevins is passionate about mak-
Legals/Classifieds
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NOTICE
PENNSBURY TOWNSHIP
ZONING HEARING BOARD
NOTICE is hereby given that the Zoning Hearing Board of Pennsbury Township will hold a Public Hearing at the Pennsbury Township Building, 702 Baltimore Pike, Chadds Ford, Pennsylvania, on September 4, 2024, at 7:00 p.m. at which time the Board will hear the following matter:
ing Chester County a great place to live and work. In her personal time, she enjoys traveling and experiencing different cultures around the world. Blevins is also the proud owner of a sixyear-old rescue dog named Poppy.
To learn more about United Way of Chester County, please visit www. LiveUnitedChesterCounty. org.
ESTATE NOTICE
Estate of Elinor F. Maier, Late of Honeybrook 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 Karen Clee 3007 Greenes Way Circle PA 19426, Executor.
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above and require an auxiliary aide, service or other accommodation to participate in the proceedings, please contact the Township Secretary at (610) 869-9620 to discuss how Penn Township may best accommodate your needs. Edward M. Foley, Solicitor, Brutscher, Foley, Milliner, Land & Kelly, LLP, 213 E. State Street Kennett Square, PA 19348 8p-21-2t
ESTATE NOTICE
NOTICE
PENN TOWNSHIP ZONING
HEARING BOARD
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ESTATE NOTICE
Estate of Barry Gene Harris, Late of East Goshen Township, Chester County, Pennsylvania, Letters of Administration on the above Estate have been granted to the undersigned, who request all persons having claims or demands against the Estate of the decedent to make known the same and all persons indebted to the decedent to make payment without delay to Richard J. Harris of 420 Husted Station Road, Pittsgrove, NJ 08318, Administrator.
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ESTATE NOTICE
ESTATE OF CHERYL A. RUSSELL a/k/a CHERYL A. HEIM, DECEASED. Late of Upper Oxford Township, Chester County, PA. LETTERS of ADMINISTRATION on the above Estate have been granted to the undersigned, who request all persons having claims or demands against the estate of the decedent to make known the same and all persons indebted to the decedent to make payment without delay to WILLIAM S. RUSSELL, JR., ADMINISTRATOR, c/o Steven M. Zelinger, Esq., 1650 Market St., Ste. 3600, Philadelphia, PA 19103, Or to his Attorney: STEVEN M. ZELINGER, STEVEN M. ZELINGER, LLC 1650 Market St., Ste. 3600, Philadelphia, PA 19103
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, DAVID GREEN, Executor C/O Attorney: Ira D. Binder, 227 Cullen Rd, Oxford, PA 19363
In re: Application of Freddie & Marshie LLC seeking variances from the height and illumination restrictions on signs so as to allow a new freestanding sign eighteen feet tall with internal illumination, new building signs and new directory signs, including relief from Ordinance Sections 162-2102.E; 162-2103.A.3; 162-2103.B.1; 162-2104.A.1; 162-2105; and 162-1910.F., on property located at 423 Baltimore Pike, Chadds Ford, PA (being UPI #64-3-71) in the Township’s R-1 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
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ESTATE NOTICE
ESTATE OF Raymond A. Giuliano of Londonderry Township, Chester County, Deceased. Letters Testamentary on the estate of the above named Raymond A. Guiliano having been granted to the undersigned, all persons having claims or demands against the estate of the said decedent are requested to make known the same and all persons indebted to the said decedent to make payment without delay to: Ray J. Giuliano, Executor, c/o Attorney: Winifred Moran Sebastian, Esquire, 208 E. Locust Street, P.O. Box 381, Oxford, PA 19363 Phone: 610-932-3838 8p-14-3t
NOTICE is hereby given that the Zoning Hearing Board of Penn Township will hold a Public Hearing at the Penn Township Municipal Building, 260 Lewis Road, West Grove, Pennsylvania, on September 5, 2024 at 7:00 p.m. at which time the Board will hear the following matter:
In Re: Application of Conard Pyle Company t/a Star Roses and Plants, seeking variances:(i) from the 15 % maximum disturbance of the prohibitively steep slopes under ordinance section 1302.A.2 so as to permit up to 24.9% disturbance; (ii) from the use restrictions in the prohibitively steep slope area under ordinance section 1302.A.2.a; (iii) from the prohibition against disturbance of the zone one Inner Riparian Buffer area under ordinance section 1304.A so as to permit up to 2.0% disturbance of that area; and (iv) from the use restrictions for disturbance of the zone one Inner Riparian Buffer area under ordinance section 1304.A; all so as to permit the construction of a two-story addition having a footprint of 10,168 square feet to its existing 145,752 square foot non-intensive agricultural use building; and to install 37 additional parking spaces and associated stormwater management facilities, grading, landscaping, retaining wall, lighting, etc. on its property located at 25 Lewis Road, West Grove, PA (UPI # 58-1-15) in the Township’s R-A Residential Agricultural zoning district.
If you are a person with a disability and wish to attend the public meeting scheduled
Notice is hereby given that Letters Testamentary have been granted to Martin D. Farmer, Executor for the Estate of Lois H. Farmer, whose last address was East Nottingham Township, Chester County, Pennsylvania. Any person having a claim to this Estate is asked to make same c/o R. Samuel McMichael, Esquire, P.O. Box 296, Oxford, PA 19363. 8p-21-3t
ESTATE NOTICE
Notice is hereby given that Letters Testamentary have been granted to David May, Executor for the Estate of Louise May, whose last address was West Nottingham Township, Chester County, Pennsylvania. Any person having a claim to this Estate is asked to make same c/o R. Samuel McMichael, Esquire, P.O. Box 296, Oxford, PA 19363. 8p-21-3t
Classifieds
Notice of Self Storage Sale
Please take notice Storage First Downington located at 3925 Hazelwood Ave Downington PA 19335 intends to hold a public sale to the highest bidder of the property stored by the following tenants at the storage facility. The sale will occur as an online auction via www.storageauctions.com on 9/10/2024 at 10:00AM. Amber Trimble unit #312. This sale may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Certain terms and conditions apply. 8-21-2t
TRAVEL/ VACATION:
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Courtesy photo Amanda Blevins
Innovative internship prepares students for post-secondary success
Two years after its launch, the internship program developed by the Chester County Intermediate Unit (CCIU) and the Technical College High School (TCHS) continues to yield outstanding results in equipping students with the skills and experience necessary for a smooth transition into post-secondary education or careers.
This year, interns earned an hourly wage thanks to a grant from the Chester County Department of Workforce Development.
The innovative program, designed for students in the Computer Information Systems (CIS) Networking Program, immerses participants in a professional environment alongside CCIU staff. By working directly with network infrastructure, equipment, and real-world scenarios, students gain invaluable hands-on training that extends far beyond classroom simulations.
“Working hands-on with computer networks has prepared me for the tasks I can expect to do in future jobs after graduation,” said Nola Lewis, a TCHS Brandywine student. “There are a lot of things that are not taught in the classroom that I would not have learned otherwise, and I now feel more secure in my abilities to face future situations and challenges.”
In addition to technical skills, the program fosters the development of essential professional abilities that are vital for success after high school. Students enhance their problemsolving, critical thinking, and collaboration skills while navigating complex networking challenges alongside experienced professionals. The CCIU staff who mentor the interns echo the program’s positive
impact.
“One of the key benefits of CIS students participating in an internship, is the opportunity to apply theoretical and classroom knowledge into real-world scenarios,” said CIS networking teacher Joe Vecchio. “Students gain hands-on experience that reinforces their technical skills. I also believe that it builds their confidence and soft skills necessary to be successful in their future careers.”
“The students are eager to learn and participate in network management. We’ve witnessed remarkable growth in our interns’ confidence and preparedness for post-secondary life,” said Dr. Walter Snyder, senior infrastructure architect. “They’re gaining a level of experience on complex network skills that will set them apart as they pursue further studies or enter the workforce.”
Larry Konig, senior infrastructure architect, also expressed their satisfaction with the partnership, saying, “It’s been incredibly rewarding to work closely with these students and see their skills flourish in a realworld setting,” he said. “We provide students with the fundamentals and scenarios, and they have been able to add a layer on top of that with their knowledge.
“So, not only are they learning from us, but they are also showing us creative solutions and new applications that can translate into value-added services for our customers.”
The program’s impact extends beyond technical proficiency, providing participants with a competitive edge in time management, communication, and adapting to professional environments––competencies that are highly valued by universities and employers alike.
Jessica Sahl, assistant director of innovative educational services at the CCIU, emphasized the program’s importance in bridging the gap between education and career readiness.
“Our goal is to ensure our students are not only knowledgeable but truly prepared to thrive in whatever path they choose after graduation,” she said. “This internship program has been instrumental in achieving that objective.”
As the CCIU and TCHS continue to build on the program’s success, they
remain committed to providing students with transformative experiences that will position them for a seamless transition into post-secondary life, armed with the skills, experience,
and confidence to excel.
The Technical College High School is operated by the Chester County Intermediate Unit on behalf of Chester County’s 12 public school districts. For
more information about the CCIU and TCHS Computer Information SystemsNetworking Program, please contact the CCIU at 484-237-5000 or visit www. cciu.org.
A look at school zone citations in Pa.
Colleen Frens, the Chester County solicitor, has graduated from the Center for Excellence in County Leadership, which is a Leadership Development Program of the County Commissioners Association of Pennsylvania. Frens has graduated from the program as part of the Class of 2024.
The program fosters individual growth through interactive and high-level executive training aimed at improving participants’ communication, management and leadership skills. The program includes intense classes in leadership styles, managerial versatility, interpersonal dynamics, strategic planning, media management, daily communication problem solving, and decision making.
The 2024 CEL program was produced by Dering Consulting Group (www. deringconsulting.com).
Program sponsors include CCAP PComp, PA Counties
CCAP
MacCain Leinhauser; Gabriel Fera, PC, and Diamond Mowers. For more information about CCAP, log on to www.pacounties.org. As the new school year approaches, the Pennsylvania Courts offered a reminder to drivers to slow down in school zones. Drivers also need to stop for school buses and stay alert and ensure the safety of all students. In Pennsylvania, two school zone traffic laws have been cited more than 25,057 times over the past five years (2019-2023). This infographic highlights key data about violations for speeding in school zones or illegally passing a school bus.
Courtesy photo
Mike Martinez, an infrastructure architect at CCIU, instructs CIS students.
Courtesy photo Colleen Frens, the Chester County solicitor, has graduated from the Center for Excellence in County Leadership.
Kohler Crushed Stone Showers By Home Smart
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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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