Nature trail system expected to open in 2023
New Garden unveils two-phase plan for Saint Anthony’s
By Richard L. Gaw Staff Writer
New Garden Township recently introduced a two-phase proposal for the development of Saint Anthony’s in the Hills Park that spells out a vision for the 137-acre property that the township purchased in 2018.
The plans, expected to be rolled out over the next two years, were introduced to
the Board of Supervisors on Sept. 6 by Mike Buck, the township’s Parks and Open Space Superintendent. Phase I of the project, located at the southernmost parcel of the park near the former soccer fields, will create a trail system that is expected to open to the public in the fall of 2023. The area will include a caretaker house, several kiosks, pedestrian barriers, signage and parking spaces.
Buck estimated the cost of Phase I will be in the range of $50,000, and that grant opportunities will soon be available to fund the project.
“This checks off the box of the number one item that respondents to [Saint Anthony’s] master plan survey said they wanted at the park,” Buck said. “People want trails and access to nature, and this is something we can deliver on that will get people to the park.”
Phase II, located in the northwest corner of the park, is projected to open in the summer of 2024 and will include the installation of a playground, gazebos and an open-air gymnasium.
Buck said that in addition to developing both phases over the next two years, the project will also include a rebranding of Saint Anthony’s in the Hills Park; developing a mission statement for the park; constructing a gateway
to the park from its primary entrance on Route 7; creating a consistent graphic identity and theme; naming roads; and continuing to develop partnerships with potential businesses that may wish to develop business plans at the park in the future.
Buck’s presentation served in some ways as a response to a presentation he gave at the board’s Aug. 15 meeting, at which he and former township manager Ramsey
Reiner were criticized by the board for their perception that the development of the park was being done in small increments, rather than as part of a larger vision. Throughout the Aug. 15 presentation, the board called for a more “phased in approach.”
“I think it’s critical that we consider all of the opportunities in the park for the present and the future,” Buck told
Penn Township officials discuss the opening of new Avon Grove High School
By Marcella Peyre-Ferry Contributing Writer
The opening of the new Avon Grove High School was one of the discussion topics at the Penn Township Board of Supervisors meeting on Sept. 7.
The township has granted a temporary occupancy permit to the school even though there is still work in progress on the building. There are also a number of concerns about traffic and road access at the site.
PennDOT has granted a highway access permit for Waltman Way, but the road has not been completed. Without that additional access, traffic has been very congested now that the new school is open.
“Once Waltman Way is open, and that’s months away, that will alleviate a lot of it (congestion),”
supervisor Victor Mantegna said. In the meantime, he encourages families to use the school buses rather than parents dropping off and picking up students or letting students drive to school.
Continued on page 3A
Township OKs $478K to stabilize, demolish Spar Hill Farm structures
By Richard L. Gaw Staff Writer
In a 3-0 vote, the Kennett Township Board of Supervisors agreed at their Sept. 7 meeting to authorize the township to prepare and present request for proposals (RFPs) for the demolition, remediation and historic preservation of 27 structures at Spar Hill Farm.
The township purchased the 137-acre farm in 2018 for $3.2 million, of which $1 million of the purchase cost came from a grant from the Mt. Cuba Center.
In total, the township is projected to spend approximately $335,584 – or 70 percent of the total estimated cost of $478,210 – to demolish 13 structures at the site. The remaining 30 percent of the estimated cost -- $142,626 – will be spent to stabilize seven structures, as well as retain an additional six structures in their current state. As part of the overhaul of the historic site, the township will also spend $18,000 on overall clean-up.
The decision served as a follow-up to an Aug. 17 presentation by the township’s
Historical Commission that spelled out the findings and recommendations of a May 9 report it received from Matthew Roberson, president of West Chester-based Restoration Carpentry, Inc.
“In the analysis of each building, we looked at what would be the minimum [effort required] to stabilize the structure to preserve it from further deterioration,” Roberson told the board on Aug. 17. “For a variety of structures, there are recommended upgrades to the scope of work that would enhance each in some way.”
“We are asking that
The Apple Festival tradition continues
By Betsy Brewer Brantner Contributing Writer
The Apple Festival tradition continues when the popular event in Oxford returns on September 24. The co-chairs for the event this year are Neeley Spotts and Bethany Atkinson. “Bethany and I are really excited to be back at the helm for this year’s festival after a two-year break,”
Neeley explained. “Though the festival was originally started in 1989 as a fundraiser to rebuild our church after the fire, over the years it has become so much more—bringing together not only our church family, but the entire Oxford community, for a day of fun and fellowship. As the world emerges from the isolation created by the pandemic, it is more important than ever to embrace these opportuni-
ties to reconnect with our neighbors in meaningful ways.”
The fire left the church congregation and several community groups without a home for an extended period of time. Those agencies, whose focus is on helping others, have used the festival as a time to show this community just how they provide help. And make no mistake, the
the board consider their recommendations for preservation techniques as a package,” said Historical Commission Chairperson Karen Marshall. “Together, they will provide enough physical evidence of the historic Spar Hill Farm to tell a cohesive story about the three major periods of agriculture that we are focusing on preserving.”
The following structures will be stabilized or retained “as is”: a smoke house, the main residence, a metal silo, a silo base, a stone wall, three small sheds, a pony barn, a metal fence, a spring house, a wood bridge and concrete livestock ramps.
Spar Hill Farm, originally owned by William Penn, has had several incarnations
Based on Roberson’s report and the Commission’s recommendations, the following structures have been deemed “not worthy of preservation” at the site and will be demolished: a carriage house, a barn, four sheds, a concrete silo, a loafing barn, a turkey slaughter house, two tenant houses, a wood fence and a garage.
Photo by Chris Barber
At the 37th annual Mushroom Festival held in Kennett Square last weekend, children greeted the character “Fun Gus,” who was roaming the festival and bringing cheer to visitors. The event once again attracted tens of thousands of people to Kennett Square. Please see Page 1B for the story and more photos.
Courtesy photo
Enjoy the Apple Festival and get educated in the process. Admission is free.
the board on Sept. 6. “At this point, it is the opportunities in the present that I’d like to have a discussion about – introduced in phases that we can agree on as a group and take something that is a possibility and turn it into an action that is going to get us closer to a complete park.”
If there remains a component of mystery in the development of the park, it is found in the stalled development of Splash New Garden, a private membership swim club that was first scheduled to open on Memorial Day weekend in 2021. After an early flourish to redesign the former Saint Anthony’s swimming facility, construction of the club has come to a complete standstill.
For the moment, township Solicitor William Christman said that New Garden has no legal recourse to pursue a loophole in the company’s lease agreement with the township that could possibly permit the township to sever ties with the company.
Grower’s Market to stay at current location
After hearing the comments of several vendors who regularly appear at the New Garden Growers Market, the supervisors voted to maintain the market’s current location at the township’s Public Works Garage, and to introduce safety measures that would allow for better vehicle and customer access to the market.
The sentiments expressed
Gaw
Photo by Richard L.
Mikala and Michelle Slicer of Landenberg sort through a variety of flowers from White Rock Garden Bouquets at the New Garden Growers Market last Saturday in New Garden Township. After discussion at a Sept. 6 meeting, the township’s Board of Supervisors agreed to keep the market at its current location, but implement safety measures and reduce access routes to and from the market.
by the vendors were in response to an Aug. 30 letter that proposed a location change for the popular market to New Garden Township Park – about a quarter-mile from Route 41. The letter, authored by the township’s Parks and Public Works departments and the Southern Chester County Regional Police Department (SCCRPD), said that the proposed change would improve the safety of the entrance and exit options for shoppers who attend the market, which has been operating at its current location since 2005.
As the market has grown in popularity in tandem with increased traffic along Route 41, the market “remains limited to the existing footprint which grows increasingly difficult to access for customers,” the letter read. By relocating the market to the park, it would reduce the number of entrance and exit points from three to one, and funnel customers in and out at the entrance to the park
in a two-way traffic pattern.
“The new location will provide safe, adequate, and marked parking spaces (that include dedicated ADA accessible parking),” the letter read. “The existing entrance to New Garden Park is already designed to handle a high volume of traffic. Relocating the market will also eliminate any instances of vendor vehicles blocking Public Works Garage access during weekend emergency calls.”
Buck said that discussions that launched the proposal to move the market into the park began in April, when a few residents expressed their concerns to him about the egress, ingress and regress traffic patterns at the market. It led to an internal discussion with the Parks and Public Works departments -- with input from the SCCRPD -- to potentially adjust the traffic flow.
“The entrance to the park is already designed to handle a high volume of traffic, and this would allow, in
our opinion, lead to a safer experience for the customer and provide an equal if not a larger footprint for the market,” Buck said.
He said that the SCCRPD suggested that a move to the park would reduce distraction opportunities for motorists traveling along Gap-Newport Pike and potentially ease potential back-ups for customers seeking parking.
kicking off an entirely new market.
“Starting a new market is the same as starting any retail business where you rely on people to come to where you are, when you are open,” she said. “We’re always looking to grow [the market], but moving will really make it hard, and it assumes that all of the vendors will move with us.
owner Patrick O’Neill said that moving the market would be a “death knell” to his business.
Many of the vendors believed, however, that the proposal would create too much distance from the market and its customers. Sarah Friedline, who has been the manager of the market for the past two years and a long-time vendor, said moving the market into the park would effectively be the equivalent of
“The only people who bear the risk of moving and suffering are the individual vendors.”
Friedline agreed with the suggestion to block off the two entrances at the front of the market, but that its current site improves its visibility to passing motorists, who account for 40 percent of the market’s customers.
Big Sky Bread Company
“About 40 percent of our customers are from Delaware, and when we ask them what brings them here, they tell us that they are stopping here on the way to Lancaster, or are stopping here on their way to the beach,” he said. “We have to continue to bring those people in and visibility is the biggest thing.”
“Out of sight, out of mind,” added Dave Van Nevel of Grampa’s Garden, who has been at the market with his wife for the past two years.
While agreeing that the market will remain in its current location, the supervisors made several recommendations: that the two egress-ingress locations in front of the market alongside Route 41 would be coned off from vehicles; that the location would be enforced by the presence of a SCCRPD police vehicle; and that pathways and crosswalks would be constructed along the bushes at the entrance of the market, in order to provide safer pedestrian access from parking spaces at the SCCRPD and the park.
Courtesy image
A two-phase development plan for Saint Anthony’s in the Hills Park was introduced at the New Garden Township Board of Supervisors meeting on Sept. 6.
Township issues statement regarding resignation of former manager
In other township business, the township issued a joint statement regarding former township manager Ramey Reiner, who resigned from her position in late August.
“’Ramsey Reiner has resigned as township manager of New Garden Township,’” said Chairman Steve Allaband, reading from the statement. “’This was not an easy decision but she appreciates the support of the board and the wonderful staff at New Garden Township. She will truly miss participating in such a wonderful community. The Board of Supervisors thanks her for her service to the township and wishes her the best of luck in her future endeavors.’”
The statement followed a nearly two-week shroud of secrecy surrounding the reasons for Reiner’s resignation, namely whether she resigned, was asked to resign or was terminated. Questions to the board following the statement were answered by Christman, who said that Reiner’s removal from her position is deemed a “personnel matter” and therefore, is not considered “public information.”
“I have asked [the supervisors] not to comment on the specifics of whether she resigned or not,” Christman said. Reiner was appointed to her former position in April of 2020, replacing former township manager Tony Scheivert.
To contact Staff Writer Richard L. Gaw, email rgaw@chestercounty.com.
Spar Hill Farm...
Continued from Page 1A
throughout its history. Originally called the Way Farm, it was managed by Quakers for over 100 years and was one of the most productive farms in the township.
For a time in the 1800s, Feldspar, a group of nonmetallic minerals used in ceramics, was mined from two quarries on the property. From 1925 to 1940, it operated as the Shutt Dairy Farm and from 1940 until 1960, it became known as the Spar Hill Turkey Farm.
As a result, the property is dotted with structures from its different periods with little age delineation separating them from one another. One such building – a metal silo built in the 1930s – stands at the edge of the conglomeration of sheds and barns that were built during an earlier time. To some, it is the primary architectural centerpiece of Spar Hill Farm, while to others, it is a conical-roofed tower of rust.
Avon Grove High School...
Continued from Page 1A
A sketch plan for an additional entrance to the campus at the Jenners Commons Shopping Center was presented to the township’s Planning Commission two months ago, but the Planning Commission considered
After discussion about its relative merits in the future of the township’s plans to “tell the story” of Spar Hill Farm, the board agreed that the metal silo will receive RFPs for both stabilization (estimated at $15,488) and demolition (estimated at $15, 616).
“All of what we are talking about – if we stabilize or demolish -- will take money in order to figure out what to do in the future, and in five or ten years, will probably require more money,” Chairperson Richard Leff said of the project. “This maintains options and allows the process to move forward. It will then allow us a little more time to figure out the options for the metal silo.”
“To me, it’s an eyesore, but to other people, it’s an icon,”
Supervisor Geoffrey Gamble said of the metal silo. “I think our presumption with any historic building in the township --- even one built in the 1930s – is that it be preserved. We can overcome that presumption by recommendations from the Historical Commission.
“If we’re going to preserve it, it needs to be re-galvanized, and the tin can
it an incomplete plan. No revised plan has been submitted yet.
The Penn Township Historical Committee has organized a Red Rose Rent Day event for Sept. 17 at the Red Rose Inn. The event will be much smaller than the reinstitution of Red Rose Rent Day last year. The rose ceremony will be held at 11 a.m. followed by
demolish a total of
In other township business, the board agreed to the appointments of Linda Dillow to the Historical Commission and Anne Verplanck to the Planning Commission, and accepted the resignation of Michael Guttman from the Land Conservation Advisory Committee.
To contact Staff Writer Richard L. Gaw, email rgaw@chestercounty.com.
two hours of building tours.
The Red Rose Inn will also be open for tours on Sun., Oct. 9 and Sun., Dec. 11.
Last year, 571 visitors toured the Inn. So far this year, in just three open house days, there have been 278 visitors to the building.
The board had planned to hold a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the Dockstader Environmental Education
Center at the Penn Township Sports Park prior to the township meeting, but the event was postponed due to rain. The ribbon-cutting has been rescheduled to Sept. 13 at 4 p.m.
A new township storm water ordinance will be considered at the supervisors’ next meeting on Sept. 21. The Penn Township Comp Plan Task Force will
meet at 4 p.m. on Sept. 28. As explained on the township website, this update of the 2012 comprehensive plan will provide guidance and describe the township’s vision for the future. All meetings are open to the public, plus there is a community values survey on the website and in the township’s fall news letter for public input.
This ice house near the entrance to Spar Hill Farm is scheduled to be demolished as part of the project.
Photos by Richard L. Gaw
This metal silo will either be stabilized or demolished in the future, as part of a Sept. 7 decision by the Kennett Township Board of Supervisors to stabilize and
27 structures at the historic Spar Hill Farm in the township. doorway with jagged metal needs to be remediated.”
supportive agencies in Oxford can fill the park. Memories from the years the Oxford Presbyterian Church has provided a place for fun, fellowship, and community outreach continue to this day. They provided roller skating on Saturdays, a place to house the First Start Program, and a home to a Pre-School Program. And of course, weddings, funerals, christenings and baptisms, Bible Schools, community meals and so much more. In many ways, the church has always opened the doors
for all who needed space in the Oxford community. Neeley explained, “This year’s festival may look a little different from other years, but guests can expect to see many of their old favorites. We’ll have fresh apple butter cooked on site, homemade apple pies, apple and scrapple, apple cider, a kids zone with many free activities including crafts led by the Oxford Arts Alliance, barrel train rides, 70-plus vendors, crafters, artisans and food trucks.”
Maggie Creshkoff will be there with her pottery wheels and a full lineup of live entertainment will be kicked off by the Upper Chesapeake Community
Band when the festival opens at 10 a.m. As always, admission is free.
To view the full list of confirmed vendors, visit www.opcapplefestival. org and follow the latest updates and vendor spotlights on the festival Facebook page: https:// www.facebook.com/ opcapplefestival.
People wait expectantly each year for the last Saturday of September when they are awakened to the smell of apple butter, and that smell beckons everyone back to a sweeter, gentler time.
The Apple Festival takes place from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Oxford Rotary Foundation plans crab feast fundraiser
Enjoy a Crab Feast on Sunday, Sept 25 from 1 to 4 p.m. at The Wellwood, 523 Water Street in Charlestown, Md. The event is a fundraiser organized by the Oxford Rotary Foundation for their service projects. One of the organization’s main beneficiaries is the Oxford Area Recreation Authority. Funds will help the authority as they begin to work toward
a new adult adaptive fitness area. The goal is to provide an outdoor area where fitness equipment will be available for use by anyone interested in improving their strength, coordination and mobility. The handicappedaccessible area will be especially useful for older residents, anyone recovering from injuries or medical challenges, and those with limited mobility.
The delicious meal includes all-you-can-eat steamed crabs and shrimp, Maryland crab soup, fried chicken, corn on the cob, potato salad, cole slaw, cookies, brownies and a cash bar. There will be a 50/50 drawing, silent auction and raffles. Purchase tickets in advance online by visiting www.oxfordrotaryfoundation.com.
Sen. Comitta to hold free shredding event on Oct. 1
Participants can also safely dispose of prescription drugs, donate food items
Residents interested in properly disposing of personal information should consider taking advantage of State Sen. Carolyn Comitta’s free shredding event on Saturday, Oct. 1 at the Oxford Area Recreation Authority.
The event runs from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., when residents can drop off up to three boxes of documents to be safely and securely destroyed on site. The paper will later be recycled.
At the same event, Comitta’s office will partner with Chester County Sheriff Fredda Maddox and the Chester County Sheriff’s Department to collect unused, unwanted, or expired prescription medication. The department will be accepting any prescription medication except liquids or syringes.
And while dropping off documents or medication
to be securely disposed of, participants are invited to donate nonperishable food items to the Oxford Area Neighborhood Services Center’s Thanksgiving basket program. Suggested donations include boxed stuffing and mashed potatoes, canned gravy and gravy packets, canned green beans, corn, yams, apple sauce, canned fruit, etc. Donations are appreciated but not required to participate in the shredding event.
“Sensitive personal documents can easily fall into the wrong hands exposing residents to fraud or identity theft. Similarly, unused prescription medication in the wrong hands can lead to addiction, abuse, and even overdose,” Comitta said.
“This is a free service to help you properly dispose of both while offering an opportunity to donate to
area residents and families who may be experiencing food insecurity.”
Some examples of unneeded documents that should be shredded include credit card statements and applications, bank records, canceled checks, income tax forms, insurance records, medical and retirement or pension fund information, and any documents that contain personal information like Social Security, credit card, or bank account numbers.
The event is free and open to the public. However, the event is for individuals only, not businesses, and there is a three box limit per car. Only paper will be accepted. Please do not bring binders, binder clips, or books.
The Oxford Area Recreation Authority is located at 900 W. Locust Street in Oxford.
Author will sign copies of new book at Oxford Presbyterian Church Apple Festival
PassionTide, a novel by local author, Jim DiLuzio, from West Grove, will be available for purchase ($15) at the Oxford Presbyterian Church Apple Festival, on Saturday, Sept. 24, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Meet the author, have your copy of PassionTide autographed, and enjoy a Twenty-First Century
tale of passion, and its ever-present dangers.
PassionTide is published by Dorrance Publishing Co., of Pittsburgh. The Oxford Presbyterian Church Apple Festival takes place at Oxford Memorial Park, 100 East Lancaster Ave., near South 3rd St., in Oxford. PassionTide will be available at Booth 70.
United Way of Chester County makes big move for next generation of the organization
The United Way of Chester County recently acquired a new headquarters funded by silent capital campaign that raised $1.395 million in just 57 days renovation started quickly afterwards.
United Way of Chester County has purchased and renovated a 5,000-squarefoot stand-alone building, located at 150 John Robert Thomas Drive in the Commons at Lincoln Center in Exton, that will serve as the permanent new headquarters for the organization’s staff. The headquarters will also host a social innovation lab, a leadership training center and financial independence hub for the community. The center is expected to be completed and ready to open in late September.
The decision to buy a building was not on the radar for the organization, but with the current office lease entering its final year and an increase in rent, the Board of Directors decided that this strategic move was necessary to set the United Way up for the next generation. United Way of Chester County looked at the new building in February 2022 and closed on the sale on June 1. Demolition and
“United Way of Chester County is beyond grateful for our Board of Directors and especially Board Chair, Brian Parsons, who worked tirelessly to help make this permanent home a possibility,” said Christopher Saello, president and CEO. “It was important to raise building funds through a silent capital campaign to make sure it did not affect the annual campaign that supports nonprofit grants. In just 57 days, we raised $1.395 million and all donors agreed to give their gifts above any current annual support.
“Due to their generosity, our rent now goes away returning $80,000 to the community that would have otherwise gone to rent and occupancy costs. That money will now be invested back into the community.”
Once news of the purchase slowly began making its way around the community, United Way of Chester
County received a lot of calls from companies looking to support the project with inkind donations, including:
• CTDI donated project management, CAD work, marketing, fundraising support and overseeing all building inspections;
• SL Commercial donated pro bono project management, glass walls and kitchen countertops ;
• Brandywine Valley Heating & Air donated a new HVAC unit and significant donated labor;
• Blackney Hayes donated pro bono architectural work;
• Attorney Brian Nagle, Macelree Harvey donated pro bono legal work;
• G.A. Vietri donated discounted electric work;
• Opt4 Group donated wiring and discounted state of the art AV systems;
• Colonial Electric Supply donated 67 LED lights for entire building;
• West Chester Mechanical donated dis-
counted plumbing;
• Home Depot donated all new kitchen appliances;
• Aidan’s Heart Foundation and David’s Drive 831 donated an automated external defibrillator (AED);
• WorkTogetherDowningtown donated pro bono interior design;
• 3Spoons Productions donated pro bono photography/videography;
“This is a big deal for the UWCC, and it has truly been a community effort to make it happen,” said Brian Parsons, CTDI Chief Operating officer and United Way of Chester County Board chairman. “We expect that this new site will provide physical and financial stability so that UWCC can continue to serve for decades to come. We are so thankful for all who supported it.”
An open house and ribbon cutting event is being planned for Oct. 6 from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. United Way of Chester County fights for the health, education and financial stability of every person in Chester County. To learn more about United Way of Chester County, please visit www. LiveUnitedChesterCounty. org.
Courtesy photo
Apple Festival co-chairs Bethany Atkinson and Neeley Spotts are promising an exciting festival this year. Follow the smell of apples to the Oxford Memorial Park on Sept. 24 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
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.
Keep moving on
In our desire for happiness and contentment, we are preordained to the safe and proper order of things. In a cruel twist, however, we are also utterly helpless to the unanticipated and the unknown.
On the morning of Aug. 14, Barry Fragale, who owns the Fragale Brothers Barber Shop in Kennett Square with his brother-in-law, took his family to Bethany Beach in Delaware. Tragedy was not prescripted on the day’s agenda – in the course of human lives, it never is -- and so what led Barry to walk in the ocean and stand in the cool and shallow water was an act done out of pure and simple joy – a tiny and momentary gift to himself.
After the wave hit him, after its sheer force broke his back in several places and rendered him unable to move, he was airlifted to Christiana Hospital, where he was diagnosed with a broken neck, a spinal cord injury, and underwent emergency surgery to stabilize his body.
We are not blessed with the ability to foreshadow the seconds when our worst moments occur. We are, however, overabundant with compassion for others who endure such horrible misfortune as what happened to Barry Fragale on Aug. 14. Our veins and arteries flow thick with it along with our blood, and in the weeks since that fateful day one month ago, we have proven again that compassion may be our greatest gift.
To help defray the exorbitant costs associated with Barry’s care, a GoFundMe campaign was organized, and after its first week, over 600 people had made donations that totaled nearly $90,000 – shattering the original $43,000 goal earmarked to help pay for medical bills, mobility aids and home alterations.
As of this edition of the Chester County Press goes to print, the number of donors has risen to 877, and collectively, the campaign now stands at over $122,000. Every day and every hour, both numbers continue to get larger.
“The reality is that the outcome of his injury is not yet known,” it reads on the GoFundMe page. “We know it will be a long road to recovery and life will look a little different when it’s done.”
There is no way for us to know in advance about the boulder teetering high above the freeway. We cannot forecast the arrival of the man with the weapon. Our intuition is not strong enough to stop the planes above us from slamming into the toners above. It is merely our fate and we suppose, also our destiny to keep moving on. In our hearts, in our prayers and in our contributions, we are right now telling Barry Fragale to do the same.
To make your contribution to Barry Fragale’s recovery, visit: www.gofundme. com/f/barry-fragales-spinal-injury-recovery
Letter to the Editor
Inflation Reduction Act investments will help fight climate change
Letter to the Editor:
President Biden recently signed the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), which includes $369 billion for combatting climate change. It is a large sum at a time of economic strain, but necessary as we must move toward a clean energy economy. Simply put, failure to reign in heat-trapping pollution from fossil fuels, agriculture and other human activity will most assuredly
push us from climate crisis we’re already experiencing to catastrophe.
The historic investments included in the IRA will bring down consumer energy costs, and increase American energy security, while substantially reducing greenhouse gas emissions -- the U.S. is now on a path to cut emissions roughly 40 percent by 2030. While the bill is by far the single biggest climate investment in U.S.
history, it is also far from perfect. Unfortunately, negotiations that enabled its passage have allowed the fast-tracking of fossil fuel development, with little to no say-so from impacted communities.
While the IRA is a big step in the right direction in fighting climate change, there is much that can, and should, be done. We should charge a price on the carbon pollution emitted by the fossil fuel industry, with
the proceeds going directly to consumers. Another is to keep oil, gas and coal in the ground. It will also be necessary to draw down the CO2 already in the atmosphere through an array of methods. To restore and preserve a world that has sustained human society for thousands of years, we must undertake bold and immediate actions.
Richard Cole, West
Want more teachers? Start valuing education
By Bella DeVaan and Rebekah Entralgo
Too many lawmakers are happy to dole out subsidies for the rich and corporations while resisting pay increases for educators faced during the pandemic. The gap is even wider in some of the states with the largest teacher shortages, reaching 32 percent in Arizona, for example.
As students return to the classroom, school districts across the country are facing a historic number of teacher vacancies — an estimated 300,000, according to the National Education Association (NEA), the largest U.S. teachers union.
Some states are particularly hard hit, with approximately 2,000 empty positions in Illinois and Arizona, 3,000 in Nevada, and 9,000 in Florida.
How are political leaders responding? A number of rural Texas districts have moved to a four-day school schedule, creating major hassles for working parents. A new Arizona law will no longer require a bachelor’s degree for fulltime teachers. Florida is allowing military veterans to temporarily teach without prior certification. Florida’s Broward County recruited over 100 teachers from the Philippines.
These band-aid actions ignore the root causes of the teacher crisis: low pay and burnout.
A new Economic Policy Institute report finds that teachers made 23.5 percent less than comparable college graduates in 2021. That’s the widest gap ever — despite the extraordinary challenges teachers have
Across the country, real wages for public school teachers have essentially flatlined since 1996.
When the NEA surveyed teachers earlier this year, 55 percent reported they plan to leave the profession sooner than planned. An overwhelming 91 percent pointed to burnout as their biggest concern, with 96 percent supporting raising salaries as a means to address burnout.
Some states are getting the message: In New Mexico, lawmakers have instituted minimum teacher salary tiers based on experience — beginning at $50,000 and maintaining a $64,000 median wage. They’re also aiming to codify annual 7 percent raises so that teachers don’t lose ground to inflation.
“These raises represent the difference of being on Medicaid with your family, the difference of having to have a second or third job or doing tutoring work on the side, the difference of driving the bus during the day and having to take extra routes just to make ends meet,” said New Mexico teacher John Dyrcz in a recent interview with More Perfect Union.
In other areas, teachers are harnessing their collective bargaining power to make their demands heard. Thousands of teachers in Ohio, Washington state, Pennsylvania, and Washington, D.C. went on strike during the first weeks of the academic year.
The educators’ union in Columbus, Ohio demands a simple, public “commitment to modern schools”: not only pay raises but also smaller class sizes, decent air conditioning, adequate funding for the arts and physical education, and caps on numbers of periods taught in a row.
Meeting such demands requires public investment. And unfortunately, too many lawmakers favor lining the coffers of the wealthy instead of funding our school systems.
In 2021, the Columbus Dispatch estimates schools in the city lost out on $51
million to local real estate developers. In New York, an over $200 million reduction in school budgets has provoked public outcry in a city where luxury builders have pocketed well over $1 billion in tax breaks each year. The Columbus teachers union soon came to a “conceptual agreement” with the city’s schools, ending their strike. Let’s hope this is a sign of a turning tide. Through a relentless pandemic, vicious censorship of curricula, and surging inequality, we cannot continue to skimp on education while squandering our resources on the wealthy.
Rebekah Entralgo (@ rebekahentralgo) is the managing editor for Inequality.org. Bella DeVaan (@bdevaan) is the research and editorial assistant for Inequality. org.
Lafayette and America’s freedom bonded at Brandywine
By Bruce E. Mowday
Some years after the battle of Brandywine on September 11, 1777, a writer penned that details of the fighting along the Brandywine River weren’t necessary as every reader knew the facts of the valiant American stand against the British army upon the fields of Birmingham Hill and Sandy Hallow. Sadly, few Americans today are aware of the heroics that General George Washington’s army performed against the forces of British Generals William Howe and Charles Cornwallis that day. Many a brave American became a casualty in the name of freedom. During the late afternoon, a portion of the American army
halted the British advance for more than an hour, enough time for the majority of Washington’s army to escape to Chester that evening. Indeed, the stand Washington’s troops made on the fields surrounding the Birmingham Meeting House saved the American army from complete defeat. British officers lamented in their journals that if another few hours of daylight remained, Washington’s army would have ceased to exist and the American Revolution ended in ignominious defeat. The 245th anniversary of the battle is now upon us and a grand reenactment event will take place at Sandy Hallow in Birmingham Township on Sept. 24 and Sept. 25.
Almost 1,000 re-enactors, including members of cavalry and cannoneers, will give demonstrations. The family-oriented educational event is open to the public.
The public will have an opportunity to recognize the Marquis Lafayette’s contribution to American freedom. As with the details of the battle of Brandywine, many Americans are unaware of deeds of Lafayette, an American hero.
The young French nobleman celebrated his 20th birthday less than a week before Brandywine. Even though given a commission in Washington’s army and a former member of the French army, Lafayette had never been in a battle. The volunteer was just another European staff offi-
cer without a command as September 11 dawned. By late afternoon, Lafayette established himself as an American freedom fighter. When Washington’s army was threatened with annihilation, Lafayette rushed to Birmingham Hill to aid Washington’s troops. Lafayette dismounted and commanded troops of General Thomas Conway as the British soldiers moved within yards of Lafayette. Lafayette was shot in his left leg, thus spilling his blood for American freedom. Lafayette’s courage and willingness to put his life on the line proved to Washington, Lafayette’s fellow officers and Washington’s troops that Lafayette was dedicated to American freedom. He was not just another European
looking to make a reputation and riches at the expense of America’s bid for independence. When wounded on the afternoon of September 11, 1777, Lafayette began his ascent to becoming an American hero. Lafayette developed into an able commander. He also was a strong and relentless advocate for America. Washington’s troops would have been hard-pressed to defeat England without the military aid of France. Without Lafayette, France would not have been America’s staunch ally. Brandywine, Lafayette and Freedom should be forever linked.
Bruce E. Mowday authored the book Lafayette at Brandywine: The Making of an American Hero. The book was recently released by Barricade Publishing of New York. For more information on Mowday, see www.mowday.com. Details on the battle of Brandywine event at Sandy Hallow can be found at www.brandywine2022.com.
Norriton
Rebekah Entralgo
Bella DeVaan
Courtesy image
Mushroom Festival attracts tens of thousands to Kennett Square
By Chris Barber Contributing Writer
It apparently mattered little to the visitors who showed up for the Kennett Square Mushroom Festival on Saturday that the event had been somewhat downsized from previous years.
Just an hour into the 10 a.m. opening, the crowds were so thick that the idea of taking a quick jaunt up State Street beside the vendors to check out something else was close to impossible because of the heavy throng. There appears to have been no estimate of attendance publicly issued as of Sunday night, but it was clear that
the count of tens of thousands in attendance from previous years still held for 2022.
Several aspects of the 37th annual festival stood out.
One was the consolidation of the entertainment to one location at the Main Stage beside Liberty Place Market at Center Street. Others included some new twists on old events and the heroic response by the organizers to a rainy Sunday.
Because of the construction of the new Kennett Square Library on Willow Street, the Mushroom Festival no longer had access to that lot, which had for years held the tent for the wine and soup
event, cooking demonstrations, the cooking contest and the popular mushroom eating contest.
The soup and wine event was eliminated this year, but the fried mushroom eating event returned as popular as ever to the Main Stage. This year it included two categories of contestants: amateurs and professionals.
Some of the amateurs were walk-ons from nearby locations while the professionals came from farther distances.
Many of them were repeats from previous years.
The winner this year was returning professional eater Molly Schuyler, who easily out-gobbled her competition. The word was spreading afterward that she had consumed 12 pounds of fried mushrooms.
Another popular event that came over from Willow Street to the Main Stage was the cooking contest. This year it was called “The Chopped Cooking Contest,” and it expanded into two events: one for adults and one for youths.
The contestants were challenged to put together their dishes using ingredients provided on the main table as well as mystery foods they
received in a bag.
The adult winner among five adults competing was Sadia Akhter Aurna, who cooked up a “Big Dinner” with mushrooms, rice and other flavors.
The youth event with three contestants of high school age took place in the Liberty Place Market – inside because of the rain. It was won by Sophie Li, who created a stir fry chow mein with mushrooms.
Each of the young contestants was accompanied by one parent in the contest.
At the youth event as well, Gina Gannon of 6ABC News was the hostess and also acted as a judge.
As in the past, the Growers’ Tent on Broad Street received heavy attendance, with growers from various companies showing on compost beds they brought in how mushrooms are spawned, pinned and harvested. Also in that tent were displays of exotic mushrooms and demonstrations of how they are grown. Near the entrance to the growers’ tent was a block of stands where visitors could buy souvenirs, vote and bid on decorated ceramic mushrooms, buy or eat mushroom soup and contribute to a contest called “Cute as a Button.”
This “button” contest consisted of rows of cans that held pictures of young children, with several categories of ages. People were invited to place money in the cans of the children they wanted to win. The richest cans won. On hand were “button” staff who admitted to those who stopped by that they wouldn’t be surprised if the winners were kids whose grandparents were overgenerous with dollars in the cans.
As Sunday dawned with rain, it was clear that the parking lot and Main Stage,
which was outside, could not function properly under those weather conditions.
The decision was made to ask Liberty Place owner and manager Geoff Bosley if he would permit a move inside the market.
He jumped in not only to allow it, but he set about to help them make arrangement with tables and chairs and a make-shift stage.
Mushroom Festival Coordinator Gale Ferranto credited Bosley with the rescue and said he was vital in their success in responding to the rain.
On Sunday morning, marking the 21st anniversary of the 911 attack on America, former Kennett Square Mayor and current Pennsylvania House of Representatives candidate Leon Spencer gave an inspirational message about respecting and holding emergency responders in high esteem. “They need us like we need them,” he said.
At the opening ceremony on Saturday morning, state Rep. Christina Sappey greeted the crowd and praised the mushroom industry for its support of the state and local economy as well as its contributions to worthy non-profits.
Also at the festival were many vendors under tents along State Street. They appeared well attended and heavily patronized.
The musical groups were
likewise popular, with the Sunday groups set up inside the market.
This was the 37th Mushroom Festival—a festival that started years ago with a small parade on State Street. It was cancelled in 2020 because of COVID-19, and held at a smaller venue on South Broad Street last year because of PennDOT roadwork uptown.
For many years, Kathi Lafferty, owner of The Mushroom Cap store in Kennett Square, led and greatly expanded the festival. She was present at this year’s opening, and was introduced and honored by Ferranto.
This year’s president of the Mushroom Festival is Gina Puoci, who led last year’s event as well.
Thousands filled State Street as soon as the gates opened on Saturday.
Sadia Akhter Aurna displays her check for winning the adult “Chopped” cooking contest.
Molly Schuyler, winner of the Mushroom Eating Contest, displays her trophy with Gale Ferranto, left, and Peter Ferranto, center, who ran the contest and provided the mushrooms.
Contestants in the adult “Chopped” contest lined up behind the food table after the competition.
Visitors at the festival survey the painted mushrooms up for votes.
Several professional eaters participated in the Fried Mushroom Eating contest.
Former Mushroom Festival Coordinator Kathi Lafferty, left, is congratulated and honored by 2022 Coordinator Gale Ferranto.
Photos by Chris Barber
CLAUDE ANTHONY MADONNA
Claude Anthony Madonna, of Kennett Square, affectionately known by all as “Uncle Claude,” passed away peacefully on Sept. 3, 2022, at the age of 100.
He was born in Kennett Square on Oct. 14, 1921, the son of Donato Madonna and Maria Michaelene Caprara of Lama dei Peligni, Chieti, Abruzzo, Italy. He is predeceased by his beloved siblings, Emma DiFrancesco, Nicholas, Rose DiRosa, Phillip (“Fritz”), Francis (“Frank”), Mary Concetta (“Jit”), Daniel P. Madonna, and two infant siblings.
He is survived by loving nieces and nephews too numerous to mention, extending across four generations to his great, great, great nieces, and nephews.
He graduated from Kennett High School in 1939 and served in the U.S. Army from 1942 to 1946 (World War II, 35th Machine Records Unit, France). He went on to study acting and voice in New York City, then traveled all over the country with the Children’s Theater. He returned to New York City and worked as a recruiter for System Development Corporation (SDC) in the Empire State Building until 1962. He then transferred to Arlington, Massachusetts, just outside of Boston, where he had a long career with SDC human resources (Cambridge and Bedford offices) until his retirement in 1984. His work supported major institutions in the field of computer programming, including MIT Instrumentation Lab (now Draper). He
made many lifelong friends while living in Arlington, including his dear friend, Jane Goode (deceased). He enjoyed summers at the Delaware beaches with family, and in Maine, with Jane and other dear friends. He moved back to Kennett Square in 2016, at the age of 95, to live out the rest of his years closer to his family. He walked almost every day, always greeting those lucky enough to cross his path. He was an unbelievable storyteller, a great cook, an active member of St. Patrick Parish (where he was educated as a child), and a wonderful uncle, never missing a niece’s or nephew’s birthday or major milestone.
Uncle Claude was truly larger than life. He loved to learn about everything and everyone around him, and he would engage in conversation for hours if he could. He also loved to laugh. He had a wonderful sense of humor, an amazing memory, a beautiful voice, a love of food, the arts and a good martini. He was generous in every way. He blessed us with his contagious smile, endless warm hugs and was an instant friend to every creature he met. He is dearly missed already. May he rest in peace.
Claude’s Mass of Christian Burial took place on Sept. 9 at St. Patrick Catholic Church.
Interment will be in St. Patrick Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations are made to St. Patrick Church in Kennett Square.
Arrangements are being handled by Grieco Funeral Home & Crematory, Inc. (484-734-8100). To view his online tribute and to share a memory with his family, please visit www.griecofunerals.com.
BILLY GORDON HUNNELL
Billy Gordon Hunnell, age 58, of West Grove, passed away on Aug. 31, 2022 at the Union Hospital in Elkton, Md.
He and his wife Jennifer Kent Hunnell just celebrated their 25th wedding anniversary on May 24, 2022. Born in Lancaster, Pa., he was the son of Minnie Jennings Hunnell of New Providence, Pa. and the late Robert William Hunnell.
Billy had worked at Edgecraft Corp for over 10 years and also at Adecco Corp.
He attended the Solanco Bible Church in Quarryville, Pa.
Billy enjoyed watching the Pittsburgh Steelers and he collected Steelers memorabilia. He enjoyed the yearly trips Ocean City, Md., watching old TV shows and spending time with his family and friends. He loved his fur babies, Lucky, Ally, Peaches and Darby May.
In addition to his wife and mother, he is survived by one brother, Danver Hunnell and his wife Tammy of Rising Sun, Md. and their children, Valerie, Kristy, Heather and Kathrin. He is survived also by three sisters, Maggie Sprout (and her husband Ernie and their children, James, Joseph and Mary of Rising Sun, Md.); Clara “Chris” Wiley of Holtwood, Pa. (and her children, Jason and Jeremy); brother-in-law Jap Swift, husband of the late Frances Swift of New Providence, Pa. and their children, Emily and Brian; one sister-inlaw Colleen Hunnell, wife of the late Timothy Hunnell of Nottingham, and their children, Tim Jr., Tristian and William; numerous cousins and numerous nieces and nephews and two special family friends, Erin Blounts and Jennifer Linkey.
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Billy’s family would like to extend a special thank you to the nurses at Union Hospital and also his infusion nurses, Megan and Melissa for the special care given.
You are invited to attend Billy’s memorial service at 11 a.m. on Saturday morning, Sept. 17 at the Solanco Bible Church, 166 Oak Bottom Road, Quarryville, Pa.
His burial will be held privately.
In lieu of flowers, a contribution may be made to the Brandywine Valley SPCA, 1212 Phoenixville Pike, West Chester, Pa. 19380.
To view his online tribute and to share a memory with his family, please visit www.kuzoandfoulkfh.com.
Additional obituaries on page 5B
JANICE “LOUISE” MORAN
Janice “Louise” Moran, 82, of Lincoln University, passed away with her family by her side on Sept. 5.
Louise was the wife of Albert Moran, with whom she shared 65 years of marriage.
Born in Coatesville, Pa., she was the daughter of the late Leroy McCullough and Sophia Crowl. She was a lifelong resident of the Oxford area. Louise was a faithful member of the Nottingham “Greenstone” Presbyterian Church where she held many positions over the years, including Sunday School teacher, choir member, Deacon and Session Member.
Louise worked by her husband’s side in the family mushroom business for many years before later working at Herr Foods, from where she retired.
Louise loved being surrounded by her family, especially at the yearly Christmas gathering where everyone was together.
In addition to her husband, Louise will be dearly missed by her five children, Sharon (Ken) Hershey of Nine Points, Steve (Brenda) Moran of Nottingham, Robin (Paul) Rovnak of East Petersburg, Ken Moran of Wakefield and Karen (Bernie) Hostetter of Lincoln University. She is also survived by 11 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren.
Louise will also be lovingly missed by her sister Jean McCauley of Oxford.
The family would like to give heartfelt thanks to the compassionate nurses and aides from Willow Tree Hospice, who cared for Louise at home in her final days.
Funeral services and burial will be private and at the convenience of family.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Nottingham Presbyterian Church or Willow Tree Hospice.
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.
VERNA D. BEARD
Verna D. Beard, a resident of Nottingham for 48 years, passed away on Sept. 3, 2022 at her home. She was 83. She was the wife of the late Lawrence B. Beard, with whom she shared 53 years of marriage.
Born in Houtzdale, Pa., she was the daughter of the late Alberta Phillips. She is survived by two sons, Terrance L. Leair of York
and William R. LeFevre of Mingoville; one daughter, Lauren D. Beard of Nottingham; seven grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; and one brother, Bill Leair of Ohio.
She was preceded in death by her brother, Ronald Phillips and her sister, Donna Sharpless. 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.
MARLENE MARIE MCDONOUGH
Marlene Marie McDonough, of Kennett Square, died on Sept. 8, 2022. She was 86. She was known as “Mom Mom” to everyone, and “Mom Mom Mom” to the great-grandchildren. She was married to Norbert “Norby” McDonough, her childhood sweetheart and best friend for 62 years. Rarely did you see one without the other.
Born and raised in Kennett Square, Marlene was the daughter of Daniel P. Madonna II and Ella (Dwyer) Madonna. She grew up surrounded by a large family that enjoyed regular Sunday dinners, weeknight visits on the porch, and in the last few years, watching “Jeopardy” with her Uncle Claude.
A lifelong resident of Kennett Square, Marlene considered the Delaware coast to be a second home. Over the years, Marlene and Norby spent their summers at the beach. After several summers in Rehoboth Beach, Norby and Marlene found their summer oasis in Dewey Beach on New Orleans Street. Were you to walk past the house, often you would find them sitting in the front yard enjoying the sights or enjoying a Happy Hour at one of their favorite spots.
From the time they were toddlers, her grandchildren were fortunate enough to spend their summers with “Mom Mom” at the Beach, being spoiled and creating lasting memories each summer as they grew up.
Marlene was a lifelong member of St. Patrick’s Parish, and one of the original Ladies of St. Patrick’s, where she made lifelong friends. She volunteered at the St. Patrick’s school when her children were growing up, and for several years she could be found doing the flowers on the altar and Sunday morning donuts after masses. She especially loved decorating the altar for Christmas and many times her children and grandchildren to help her.
Marlene is survived by her daughter, Karen (Gary Ceman) of Rehoboth Beach, Del. and their children
Christopher McMahon (Krissy), Jack McMahon, and Ally Lingo (Ken); Eileen (Tom Taylor) of Newark, Del. and their daughters, Ally and Molly; Noreen Lasorsa of Wilmington, Del. and her son, Payton, and great-grandchildren Jaxson, Saylor and Crew Thomas. Marlene is also survived by her sisters-in law Janice Madonna of Kennett Square, and Betty McDonough of Winter Haven, Florida, several nieces and nephews, cousins and many special friends.
In addition to her husband and parents, Marlene is predeceased by her younger brothers Daniel P. Madonna III and Edward J. Madonna.
The family would like to extend thanks to the wonderful ladies who took care of Marlene during the last two years, with special thanks and gratitude to Joyce, Vanessa and Deanna who treated her as they would their own mother. They not only helped her with daily living needs, but they also made sure her hair was done and her nails were polished. Additionally, the family would like to thank the nurses of Bayada Home Care Services, Bayada Hospice of Chester County, and Dr. Maryann Ost.
You are invited to visit with Marlene’s family and friends from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 14 at Kuzo Funeral Home, 250 W. State Street in Kennett Square.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Thursday, Sept. 15, 2022, at 11 a.m. at St. Patrick Catholic Church, 212 Meredith Street in Kennett Square.
Interment will immediately follow at St. Patrick Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, a contribution may be made to the Ladies of St. Patrick’s or to Saint Patrick Church, 205 Lafayette Street, Kennett Square, Pa. 19348.
To view Marlene’s online tribute and to share a memory with her family please visit, www.kuzoandfoulkfh. com.
Arrangements are being handled by Kuzo Funeral Home of Kennett Square.
Canine Partners for Life’s Fall Festival takes place on Sept. 17
Event features service dog demos, puppy kissing booth, food trucks, vendors, and more
Canine Partners for Life’s Fall Festival, which includes the popular cow bingo event, will be held on Saturday, Sept. 17 from noon to 4 p.m. at the campus at 334 Faggs Manor Road in Cochranville. All ages are welcome, so bring the whole family for an afternoon of free and fun activities to discover how service dogs change lives.
Guests can begin their afternoon by watching a service dog demonstration, touring the CPL kennel or meeting puppies at the ever-popular Puppy Kissing Booth. There will be a Family Fun Zone, a band, Ol’ 442, providing entertainment, a variety of food trucks, unique vendors and more.
“Our Fall Festival is one of the best days at CPL and I look forward to it each year,” said Janie Cramer, CPL’s executive director.
“It’s a great opportunity
for our community to learn more about the CPL mission, meet recipients of service and companion dogs, tour our campus, support local vendors or enjoy lunch from a local food truck.”
The day ends with Cow Bingo, which is a game of chance. The cow will be released at 3 p.m., and whichever square the cow heeds the call of nature on
Help Wanted
will be the lucky winner of $5,000. Tickets are $10 each, squares are randomly assigned and chances are 1 in 3,000. Tickets are on sale now and can also be purchased at the event. The winner does not need to be present to win.
This event is rain or shine. All parking will be on site, at the CPL campus. Personal pets are not permitted. To learn more or download a
Cow Bingo order form, visit CPL’s website or Facebook page. There is no admission fee, however, donations
are always appreciated and benefit CPL’s mission to increase the independence and quality of life of
individuals with physical, developmental, and cognitive disabilities or who are in other situations of need.
Franklin Mint
Federal Credit Union earns award
Franklin Mint Federal Credit Union was named one of the 2022 “Best Credit Unions to Work For” by American Banker
This national survey and awards program, formerly produced by Credit Union Journal , now a part of American Banker, identifies, recognizes, and honors those credit unions that have excelled in creating quality workplaces for employees.
“Franklin Mint Federal Credit Union is extremely proud to receive this recog-
ESTATE NOTICE
ESTATE OF Robert W. Pierson, late of Elk Township, Chester County, Deceased. Letters Testamentary on the estate of the above-named Robert W. Pierson 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: Kristine Alice Riley and Kathy Sue Pierson, Co-Executrixes C/O Attorney: Winifred Moran Sebastian, Esquire, Lamb McErlane, PC , 208 E. Locust Street , P.O. Box 381, Oxford, PA 19363 Phone: 610-932-3838 8p-31-3t
POCOPSON TOWNSHIP ZONING
nition three years in a row,” said president and CEO Michael B. Magnavita, CPA. “It reflects our culture and commitment to create a collaborative, team-focused work environment. Just as importantly, our strong levels of employee engagement is tied directly to a high level of member satisfaction.”
Determining the “Best Credit Unions to Work For” involved a two-step process. The first consisted of evaluating each participating
Legals
HEARING BOARD
NOTICE is hereby given that the Zoning Hearing Board of Pocopson Township will hold a Public Hearing at the Pocopson Township Municipal Building, 664 South Wawaset Road, West Chester, PA 19382, on September 28, 2022 at 7:00 p.m. at which time the Board will hear the following matter: Application of Jason Antonelli seeking a variance from the 40 foot rear yard setback requirements under Section 250-19.C(5) of the zoning ordinance so as to allow a 25 foot rear yard; and seeking a special exception under section 250-87.M(3) from the steep slope disturbance limits under Section 250-87.B(8) and D(1)(a) and (c) so as to allow disturbance of 39.1% of the moderately steep slopes and 12.3% of the very steep slopes; and a special exception under
credit union’s workplace policies, practices, and demographics. This part of the process was worth approximately 25 percent of the total evaluation.
The second step consisted of employee surveys aimed at assessing the experiences and attitudes of individual employees with respect to their workplace. This part of the process was worth approximately 75 percent of the total evaluation. The combined scores determined the final ranking.
ordinance Section 250-19.C(3) so as to allow impervious cover of 29.33% of the property, and such other relief as may be required to enable construction of an addition to the existing residential dwelling, as well as a barn and in-ground swimming pool, on a 3.56-acre property located at 456 West Creek Road, West Chester, PA (UPI #63-2-9) in the Township’s RA - Residential and Agricultural 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; or if you wish to participate remotely, please contact Susan Simone at 610-793-2151 to discuss how Pocopson Township may best accommodate your needs. Edward M. Foley, Solicitor Brutscher, Foley, Mil-
Courtesy photo
Partners
Life’s Fall Festival
The Nature Conservancy welcomes new Delaware Oceans and Coasts Director
The Nature Conservancy (TNC) in Delaware and Pennsylvania announced that Will Helt has joined the organization as Oceans and Coasts Director. Helt joins the Delaware TNC team following work for the Rhode Island TNC chapter working on coastal resiliency and marine science projects.
“The Nature Conservancy in Delaware and across the globe is focused on cli-
mate change and coastal resilience,” said TNC Delaware & Pennsylvania executive director Lori Brennan. “As we look to the future, we knew it was important to invest in new staff with an expertise in coastal programming. I am so pleased to welcome Will to our team as our chapter’s first Oceans and Coasts Director.”
The Nature Conservancy’s Delaware
Aline Ruch Frank passed away peacefully in her home on Sept. 3, while surrounded by her family and neighbors, who were drinking wine and telling stories. She would have loved the whole scene.
Born in Baltimore in 1956 to James Ruch and Frances Collins Ruch, she lived in many places before moving to Kennett Square in 1996. She is survived by her siblings, Frannie, Pat, Katie, Mary, Sue, Jim, and John, as well as their spouses and children; her children, Henry (Kayla), Sam (Brooks), Abigail, and Hannah; and her grandchildren, Alice, Leonard, Ira, and Daphne.
Aline was incomparable. She is impossible to describe, but here are a few things her children loved about her. She was a technical designer in the fashion industry by trade—a pattern maker—and loved textiles, design, and engineering. She had a timeless style and seemingly endless talents. She earned her bachelor’s degree in medieval Spanish literature
chapter was founded in 1990 and merged with the Pennsylvania chapter in 2020. The organization’s work in Delaware includes land protection, stewardship, and advocacy including the Milford Neck Preserve, urban conservation, the citizen science Stream Stewardship program, and educational volunteer opportunities.
“Delaware is the home to iconic coastal com-
munities, important bio habitats, and almost 300,000 acres of wetlands,” said TNC Delaware and Pennsylvania director of conservation Keith Fisher. “It is also struggling with the challenge of sea level rise, a changing climate and more intense storm events. Will’s background in coastal habitats and restoration make him the perfect fit to join the team.”
Obituaries
ALINE RUCH FRANK
from the University of Pennsylvania while raising four kids. She threw herself wholeheartedly into any community that she was a part of—St. Ignatius Parish, St. Pat’s, the Kennett Consolidated School District, her neighborhood, and countless more. She did a million things at once and was everywhere in Kennett. She held many jobs. She was president of the Mary D. Lang PTO and served on the Kennett School Board. She fixed everyone’s prom and wedding dresses, wrote curricula, translated between English and Spanish, threw community welcome parties, went to all the sports games and musicals and graduations. She was always athletic, but her favorite exercise was “checking in on her peeps,” i.e., walking around town on a Friday night knowing she would run into friends anywhere she went. She was kind, open-minded, curious, mischievous, selfless, and brave. She was incredibly smart but never pretentious. She was funny, without being loud, and without putting other people down. She was not sentimental, but she loved people deeply and unconditionally. She would always say, “Do what you can do” and “What do normal people do?”
The Director of Oceans and Coasts will lead a multi-disciplinary team of scientists and practitioners focused on implementing science-based strategies to improve the climate resilience of coastal habitats and natural communities along the Delaware Bayshore, while incorporating natural infrastructure solutions that help human communities adapt to the impacts of sea-level rise. Through
this work, Helt will regularly work with academic, municipal, state, non-profit and federal partners.
“I am thrilled to join the Delaware & Pennsylvania TNC Chapter,” said Helt. “I look forward to hearing the concerns of Delawareans in terms of sea level rise and storms, and I am excited to think about natural solutions that benefit both the residents and the environment.”
She loved catching critters in her garden to entertain her grandchildren. She cared about public education. She was honest, unfailingly forgiving, and had no sense of entitlement. There are a lot of people who want to be just like Aline. She will be indescribably missed.
There will be a wake on Thursday, Sept. 15, from 5 to 7 p.m. at her home (111 East Sickle Street in Kennett Square) and a Funeral Mass at St. Patrick Church, 212 Meredith Street in Kennett Square. All are welcome. The service will also be available online here: https://venue.streamspot. com/66c95b9b.
Burial will be in St. Patrick’s Cemetery, Route 82, in Kennett Square.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Aline’s name and memory to the Kennett Library Capital Campaign (https://kennettlibrary.org/donate/).
To view her online tribute and to share a memory with her family, please visit www.kuzoandfoulkfh.com.
Arrangements are being handled by the Kuzo Funeral Home in Kennett Square.
PUBLIC REAL ESTATE AUCTION
liner, Land & Kelly, LLP, 213 East State Street, Kennett Square, PA 19348
9p-7-2t
ESTATE NOTICE
ESTATE OF Ruth S. Pattinson, late of Oxford, Chester County, Deceased. Letters Testamentary on the estate of the above-named Estate, have 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: Roland L. Pattinson, Executor, P.O. Box 147, Oxford, PA 19363. 9p-7-3t
NOTICE OF DISSOLUTION
Pursuant to the requirements of section 1975 of the Pennsylvania Business Corporation Law of 1988, notice is hereby given that LENAPE AIR, LTD. is currently in the process of voluntarily dissolving. Anthony J. Rocca, Esquire, 1528 Walnut Street, Suite 1507, Philadelphia, PA 19102
9p-14-1t
INCORPORATION NOTICE
J LARKIN AUTOMOTIVE INC has been incorporated under the provisions of the Pennsylvania Business Corporation Law of 1988.
9p-14-1t ESTATE NOTICE
Estate of Fred D. Main Late of Oxford , East NottinghamTownship, 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 Michael D. Main, Executor, 968 Hopewell Road, Oxford, PA, 19363 9p-14-3t
Kohler Crushed Stone Showers By Home Smart
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.
“Great experience with Home Smart. I collected a couple quotes for a bathtub/surround replacement. Home Smart offered the most aesthetically pleasing option at a competitive price. They also beat the installation lead time estimate by ~4 weeks. Ken and Tony came and efficiently completed the install. My house is old and there were challenges to work with, but they worked through them and in the end, product looks really great. Thanks!”
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