Chester County Press 09-16-2020 Edition

Chester CountyPRESS

www.chestercounty.com

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

Volume 154, No. 37

INSIDE

Wednesday, September 16, 2020

A Taste at the Fair

Kennett Square Borough officials seem cautiously optimistic about budget situation

By Steven Hoffman Staff Writer

During a Finance Committee report at the Sept. 8 council meeting, Kennett Square Borough officials expressed some optimism that the impact of the coronavirus pandemic on the borough’s budget could be less than what was initially feared.

Council member Ethan Cramer offered a yearto-date comparison of earned-income tax collections for 2019 and 2020.

This year, the borough’s revenues from earnedincome taxes amount to Gallery approximately $500,000 so far, while at the same point in 2019, the total was about $525,000. While that’s a significant decline—about 5 percent—borough manager Joseph Scalise noted that it’s less than a 15 percent decline that had

Landenberg Life Magazine

New Station exhibit...2A

$1.00

been feared for the second quarter, and a 10 percent decline that had been projected for the third quarter.

Scalise cautioned that no one knows whether revenues will dip more as the year progresses.

“There are way too many variables,” Scalise said.

“All we can do is keep an eye on it.”

Cramer said that borough officials were hoping for the best. He noted that diversity is a strength of Kennett Square, and a diverse workforce might be one reason that the borough is navigating its way through the pandemic a little better than was expected.

“We’re not a typical Chester County economy.

We’re not a typical anywhere economy,” Cramer said.

Bo Wright, the executive director of Historic Kennett Square, said that business-

es in Kennett Square are doing their best to move forward. To help with that, Wright said, Historic Kennett Square is planning some special events in the coming months that will hopefully boost local businesses.

Memorandum of understanding Borough officials have now started the process of considering an extension of the agreement between the borough, Kennett Township, and Historic Kennett Square on a collaborative approach to economic development, including the funding of a economic development director position that works under the umbrella of Historic Kennett Square.

The initial agreement is set to expire at the end of this year. The memoran-

Photo by Chris Barber

The winning chocolate cake at the second Taste of the Fair on Sept. 12 was baked by Emily Cwyk of Chadds Ford and is displayed by cake judging chair Terry Hawkins. Please see Page 1B for the story.

dum of understanding that was discussed briefly at the Sept. 8 meeting would be for an additional two years.

Bob Norris, who serves on the board of Historic

Kennett Square, outlined how the new memorandum of understanding will incorporate some needed changes based on the Continued on Page 4A

‘I will honor her forever’

‘We Walk With Harriet’ journey ends triumphantly in Kennett Square Redefining recovery...3A

By Richard L. Gaw Staff Writer

In an emotional welcoming that renewed their weary bodies and reignited their spirits, the eight women who recently embarked on a 116-mile Opinion.......................5A walk to raise awareness of the world’s most famous Obituaries.............2B-3B abolitionist, finished their Classifieds.................4B six-day journey on Sept. 10 at The Creamery of Kennett Square, before about 150 exuberant supporters.

Intended to bring public awareness to Harriet Tubman’s efforts that brought slaves to freedom through the Underground Railroad movement in

To Subscribe Call 610.869.5553

INDEX

the 1800s, the “We Walk With Harriet” contingent began their walk on Sept.

5 at the Brodess Farm in Cambridge, Md., where Tubman lived for a part of her childhood as a slave.

Averaging about 20 miles per day, the group – who live in Washington, D.C., Virginia, West Virginia and Maryland and began training together in March – generally retraced Tubman’s steps on what is now the Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad Byway, a 125-mile self-guided driving tour Photo by Richard L. Gaw that includes 36 sites sigAfter a six-day journey that encompassed 116 miles, “We Walk For Harriet,” a connificant to Tubman and the tingent of eight women who retraced the steps of abolitionist Harriet Tubman along Underground Railroad. the Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad Byway, received a heroes’ welcome in Continued on Page 2A

Kennett Square on Sept. 10.

Gov. Wolf calls for Occupation Day legislative action to commemorates the Battle of the support small businesses impacted by COVID-19 Brandywine

By Richard L. Gaw Staff Writer For a few hours last Thursday afternoon and evening, the normally calm and serene Borough of Kennett Square was temporarily under the occupation

Gen. Sir William Howe and several members of his army.

The British came. They marched. They posed for photographs. They had a few beers with the townspeople.

Continued on Page 3A

© 2007 The Chester County Press Photos by Richard L. Gaw

A small segment of Gen. William Howe’s British Army gathered at the Genesis Walkway in Kennett Square on Sept. 10, as part of the Occupation Day commemoration of the Battle of the Brandywine, which took place on Sept. 11, 1777.

As small businesses continue to feel an economic impact of the COVID-19 public health crisis, Pennsylvania Gov. Tom Wolf recently called on the General Assembly to provide additional funding to support these businesses. The governor was joined by the York County Economic Alliance, local elected officials and business advocates.

“The COVID-19 pandemic is a public health crisis, but it is also an economic crisis. In order to help Pennsylvania’s economy recover from the effects of COVID-19, it is vital that we continue to support businesses in Pennsylvania, especially as so many have taken on additional work and costs to keep their employees and customers

safe since reopening,” Gov. Wolf said. “Small businesses have been significantly impacted by the COVID19 mitigation efforts and further support is needed to strengthen the economy, so I am calling on the General Assembly to approve additional funds to support our small businesses.”

As part of his fall legislative agenda, Gov. Wolf is calling on the General Assembly to provide an additional $225 million in federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act funding in the form of forgivable loans and grants to small businesses in Pennsylvania through the COVID-19 Relief Statewide Small Business Assistance Program. In addition, the governor is proposing $100 million in forgivable loans and grants for the hospi-

tality, leisure and service industries, including restaurants and bars, salons, and barber shops.

The COVID-19 Relief Statewide Small Business Assistance funding was developed in partnership with state lawmakers and allocated through the state budget, which included $2.6 billion in federal stimulus funds through the CARES Act, of which $225 million was earmarked for relief for small businesses, including historically disadvantaged businesses.

Thousands of businesses have qualified for this grant program, which continues to distribute funding.

York County is utilizing a portion of its $40.5 million in CARES Act funding that was Continued on Page 3A

2A

CHESTER COUNTY PRESS

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2020

Chester County Press

Local News Tubman walk...

Continued from Page 1A

Soon after their trip began, the course the women took was followed closely by nearly 9,000 visitors on the group’s social media page.

Along the byway, waiting visitors stopped to greet them, give them water and food, and offered encouragement and their homes, restrooms and yards for rest. Along the way, they stayed overnight in prebooked hotels.

‘I am renewed’ Tracy Clarke of Washington, D.C. said she and her fellow walkers were not expecting the reception they received along the route.

“People came up to us with tears running down their face in solidarity and in spirit,” she said. “It was incredible, in a very difficult year, which lifted our hearts and our spirits so much. It completely renews and reaffirms that there are good people in this country, as there are everywhere, and we experienced that on this walk. We walked through communities that are very different from us, and they opened up their arms, offered us things, and gave us encouraging words and prayers.

“I am renewed.”

Prior to their arrival in Kennett Square on Sept.

10, the “We Walk With Harriet” group made a visit to Lincoln University, where they were greeted

by Dr. Lenetta Lee, dean of the college and president for Student Success; Dr. Maxine Cook of Student Success and a representative from Rep. Chrissy Houlahan’s office. While on campus, they posed for photographs with students and toured the grounds of the historic Hosana Meeting House on campus.

In anticipation for the originally scheduled arrival of the women in Kennett Square at 3 p.m., several residents began to mingle at The Creamery of Kennett Square as early as 2 p.m.

When they were told that the contingent would be arriving in Kennett Square between 5 and 6 p.m., many chose to remain at the venue.

By 4 p.m., the parking lot area at The Creamery of

Kennett Square was nearly full, and by 5 p.m., the size of the crowd had swelled to nearly 200, some of whom chose to form a ‘Welcome’ line along Birch Street.

Greg Lafferty, the senior pastor at the Willowdale Chapel in Unionville, waited on the corner of Broad and Birch streets with his wife Deane and their two daughters for the arrival of the women.

“We are big advocates for racial reconciliation, and it is a part of what our church is all about,” Greg Lafferty said. “It’s also about having two brown-skinned daughters and wanting them to know about their heritage.

This is a part of their history and we wanted them to have a moment with this.”

“Harriet Tubman is such a hero,” Deane said, “and I think it’s important for the girls to grow up having some heroes that look like them.”

Nicole Lewis of Kennett Square brought her two fourth-grade nephews to the event.

“I grew up here, and this is a very historical moment for me,” she said. “I know that Kennett Square is home to one of the stops along the Underground Railroad and the route that Harriet Tubman traveled, so this is important, especially for someone like me, who is an African-American female.”

Just before 6 p.m., the eight members of “We Walk With Harriet” turned right onto Birch Street from Broad Street, and as they came nearer to the gathering waiting for them in the distance, they locked hands, as the sound of applause began to rise. When they reached The Creamery of Kennett Square, they embraced each other in solidarity.

‘We hope to leave a legacy that is heroic’ “We not only walk in the steps of Harriet Tubman,” Monica Samuel said. “We walk in the steps of all of our ancestors who fought for freedom and social justice – women like [abolitionist and women’s rights activist] Sojourner Truth and [civil rights and human rights activist] Ella Baker and [politician and educator] Shirley Chisholm.

“We follow their legacy and we hope to leave a legacy that is heroic.”

The women finished their journey along Birch Street, on their way to the Creamery of Kennett Square.

Photos by Richard L. Gaw

“We Walk With Harriet” organizer Linda Harris celebrates the achievement of the women.

For “We Walk With Harriet” organizer Linda Harris, the walk reaffirmed her respect for Tubman’s accomplishments, and she vowed to repeat the walk again.

“This woman did this walk with poachers and trappers and trackers after her,” Harris said. “It was incredible. We had phones and logistics teams. I know she had people who helped her along the trail, but it was nothing like we had. I am so in awe of her accomplishments. I will honor her forever.”

On Sept. 14, the group posted on their social media page that they are scheduling a second walk on the Harriet Tubman Byway, beginning on Oct. 21, 2021, that will begin in Kennett Square and end in Cambridge, Md. “From Saturday to Saturday, I shared my life with Harriet Tubman and the people I love the most,” Harris posted on the “We Walk With Harriet” social media page on Sept. 12.

“Now I know what Harriet has been trying to show me all this time. When you have love in your life and people who support your passion, you are free, truly free! Free from terror, free from doubt and fear, free to try something new, free to block the noise, free to clear your mind, free to be inventive, free to be creative, free

Homeownership more affordable.

M&T has options to help you achieve homeownership.

You may be eligible for solutions to help: • • • •

Reduce the cash needed at closing Lower monthly payments Save thousands by paying less interest Qualify with a less-than-perfect credit history

Get started with one of our mortgage specialists by calling 1-888-253-0993 or visit us at mtb.com.

Equal Housing Lender.

Certain restrictions apply. Subject to credit and property approval. ©2020 M&T Bank. Member FDIC. NMLS# 381076. 43771-A 200721 VF

to laugh, free to cry, free to dance, free to walk, free to run! FREE TO LIVE!” The Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad National Historical Park is located at 4068 Golden Hill Road, Church Creek, Md. 2162. For more information, visit www.nps.gov. hatu.

To learn more about the Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad Byway, visit www.harriettubmanbyway.org.

To contact Staff Writer Richard L. Gaw, email Several of the walkers embraced each other at the end rgaw@chestercounty.com. of a journey that began six days earlier.

Work of Rachel Altschuler and Gay Freeborn featured at the Station Gallery

Courtesy photos

The Station Gallery currently features the work of artists Rachel Altschuler and Gay Freeborn in the “Teach Your Children Well” exhibit that includes new paintings, collaborations and works from the Endangered Species Series. The exhibit runs through Sept. 26. The Station Gallery is located in Greenville Station at 3922 Kennett Pike in Greenville, Del. The gallery’s hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. each Monday through Friday and 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday. For more information, visit the Station Gallery website at StationGallery.net.

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2020

CHESTER COUNTY PRESS

3A

Chester County Press

Local News Occupation Day...

Continued from Page 1A

where Howe and his troops used the nearby Kennett Brewing Company as the headquarters to plan the next day’s battle. Replenished by the brewery’s Old Speckled George beer (made from George Washington’s own recipe), the regiment joined the local citizenry at the brewery.

Currently under construction, the Kennett Heritage Center on North Union Street was once the home of Dr. Isaac D. Johnson, an inventor, author, doctor and local abolitionist who provided medical care to slaves who were going through Kennett Square as part of the Underground Railroad movement.

Once opened, the mission of the center will be to serve as a central hub for the research, documentation and celebration of Kennett Square’s unique history, and to become the home Photos by Richard L. Gaw Ken Lawson of the Chadds Ford Historical Society of the Kennett Underground Revolutionary War reenactor Randell Spackman. greets a few guests on State Street in Kennett Square.

Railroad Research & Education Center. In addition, it will also feature lectures and presentations, provide bus tours to individuals, communities and schools, and arrange pop-up museum exhibits at events throughout Chester County.

The Kennett Heritage Center is located at 120 N. Union Street in Kennett Square. To learn more, visit “Kennett Heritage Center” on Facebook, www.kennetheritagecenter.org, or email KennettHeritageCenter@ gmail.com.

The Kennett Heritage Center, in partnership with the Chadds Ford Historical Society, commemorated the 243rd anniversary of The Battle of Brandywine, which was fought between the American Continental Army of General George Washington and the British Army on Sept. 11, 1777.

The battle, which took place in what are now 15 townships in southeastern Pennsylvania, became the largest single-day engagement of the American Revolution, where nearly 30,000 soldiers squared off on a ten-square-mile area of 35,000 acres. Considered the biggest defeat of the Continental Army during the Revolutionary War, the British forces routed Gen. Washington’s troops as part of Gen. Howe’s advance to occupy the City of Philadelphia.

For more than two hours, historical reenactors dressed in British Army regalia, led by a fife and drum team, marched through the borough, posing for photographs with curious onlookers and pledging their loyalty to King George.

Later, a liaison of Howe delivered a message to the citizens of Kennett Square, forewarning local townspeople that they were now the King’s Loyal Subjects and that a large battle was to take place the next day.

To contact Staff Writer The commemoration was Richard L. Gaw, email topped off at Apple Alley, rgaw@chestercounty.com.

Redefining Recovery in Today’s World takes place on Sept. 24 A virtual event with addiction recovery coach Cortney Lovell is part of ongoing opioid treatment, prevention, and education initiatives “Redefining Recovery in Today’s World” is the title of a virtual discussion Delaware County Community College will host at 11 a.m. on Thursday, Sept. 24, featuring Cortney Lovell, a well-known leader in addiction recovery coaching. The event is free and open to the public. Visit dccc.edu/courtney-lovell to register and receive instructions on how to attend. To participate, please register by no later than Sept. 23.

A certified recovery peer advocate, Lovell is a modern messenger for change. Driven by her personal experience of growth and transformation, study and reflection, she challenges traditional treatment systems to truly meet individuals who use drugs where they are, with the support they need.

Lovell co-founded Our Wellness Collective, FindRecoveryCoaches. com and RecoveryTraining.Online, resources to better train, supervise and support addiction recovery coaches and the emerging recovery profession.

She has served on the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Advisory Committee for Women’s Services, the National Academy of Medicine’s Action

Collaborative on Countering the U.S. Opioid Epidemic, and on the board of directors of Families Together in New York State, which represents families of children with social, emotional and behavioral challenges.

Determined to uplift the field of peer services, so that others also can discover the value of their experience, Lovell has spent many years working within the evolving field of recovery supports.

Clinically trained, she identified early on in her career that her skills were best utilized in cultivating the emerging peer service field.

She has worked with numerous state agencies, non-profit and private sector entities to support implementation, develop curriculum and offer training to diverse audiences.

Lovell also has served as an appointee on the U.S. Health and Human Services Advisory Committee for Women’s Services and has served on or assisted New York State’s Combat Heroin Campaign; Youth.gov, a U.S. government website that helps people create, maintain and strengthen effective youth programs; and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

She has been featured in films such as Refinery29’s “See, Here, Now,” “Reversing the Stigma” and “Everywhere but Safe.”

She was a regular contributor for addiction stories

Courtesy photo

Cortney Lovell, a wellknown leader in addiction recovery coaching will participate in the event, which is free and open to the public.

on cable television’s HLN’s Michaela Pereira show, and she frequently participates in press events, conferences and ceremonies.

Lovell’s “Redefining Recovery in Today’s World” discussion is one of a series of ongoing events Delaware County Community College is hosting on the issues of combatting opioid addiction and seeking opioid recovery.

The events are made possible by a grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs. The grant has helped the College create a variety of initiatives to educate, inform and support students, faculty, staff and the community about how to address the U.S. opioid epidemic.

Revolutionary War reenactors gave demonstrations to families who attended the events.

Wolf...

Continued from Page 1A

businesses that have been adversely affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. This funding, in the form of forgivable loans and grants, for the hospitality, leisure, and service industries, including restaurants and bars, salons, and barber shops, would provide working capital for

the commonwealth’s small businesses who need it the most,” said state Rep. Carol Hill-Evans (D-York). “Now, we as legislators must put aside political differences to quickly pass much needed legislation that will help keep our small businesses afloat.”

appropriated to counties through the General Assembly and allocated

by Gov. Wolf to further support small businesses in the county. The county created the YoCo Strong Restart Grant Program, a competitive grant program developed and managed by the York County Economic Alliance and Community First Fund to provide $10 million to support small businesses and $4 million to support nonprofit organizations. Eligible small businesses, including historically disadvantaged businesses and vulnerable industries like restaurants, salons and barber shops, retail and more were awardCourtesy photos ed grants of up to $35,000. Gov. Tom Wolf called on the General Assembly to pro“Unprecedented times vide additional funding to support small businesses. call for unprecedented measures. Our small businesses need the continued support from our commonwealth, and we are encouraged by all that has been done to date. We are optimistic of the legislative proposals set forth, and know these decisions are incredibly vital for our health and continued economic recovery,” said Kevin Schreiber, president and CEO of the York County Economic Alliance.

“The state's allocation of $225 million in small business support was novel, and Free Estimates now a model other states are emulating as a best pracBoilers, Furnaces tice,” said Dan Betancourt, & Hot Water Heaters president and CEO of the Community First Fund.

All Fuels “This was adapted here in York County to ensure those most vulnerable and in most need receive access to funding in a timely and 219 Birch Street, Kennett Square, PA 19348 efficient manner.”

“I am pleased that Gov. Ask for Jeff Wolf is dedicating millions www.tayloroilandpropane.com of dollars to help our small

610-444-3810

4A

CHESTER COUNTY PRESS

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2020

Chester County Press

Local News Kennett Square budget...

Continued from Page 1A

experiences of the three parties during the first three years of the agreement.

Norris said that the economic development office’s purpose is to meet the objectives of both Kennett Square Borough and Kennett Township, and the memorandum of understanding should clarify those objectives.

“The accountability and the measurements are important to us,” Norris said.

Norris emphasized that economic development doesn’t simply refer to adding new businesses or building up or out on the limited land that remains open for development.

Economic development could also pertain to things like the need for more affordable housing or the need for more support for black-owned businesses.

Wright talked about some of the objectives of the Office of Economic Development. They include working on business retention efforts and identifying and attracting new businesses to the area, and offering recommendations on existing zoning regulations to ensure that the zoning is appropriate for what the borough’s objectives are.

The Office of Economic Development would also provide an analysis of proposed developments, create stronger relationships among the staff, help borough council determine its priorities, and work with the Chester County

Economic Development Council to create a plan for borough-owned properties that are under-utilized.

The office of economic development could also provide direct support to small businesses and secure and manage grants for the borough.

Wright said that the mission of Historic Kennett Square as an organization continues to evolve, and moving forward, he thinks Historic Kennett Square will work to support the entire borough, not just the businesses in the commercial district.

Borough council opted to ask the Finance Committee to provide a review of the Memorandum of Understanding. This will be the first step in the process to extend the memorandum of understanding.

Other business Borough council also authorized the filing of an application to the state’s multimodal transportation fund program for a grant.

Kennett Square Borough is collaborating with Kennett Township on this grant, and the funding would be used for improvements to Birch Street and an underpass to connect the trail under the railroad tracks at the Pennock Park.

Scalise explained at the meeting in July that the Birch Street project would include streetscape, traffic calming, roadway and stormwater improvements.

The borough is utilizing $500,000 it received through the county’s Community Revitalization

Chester County sheriff’s office seeking names for new, four-legged recruits The Chester County Sheriff ’s Office announced that later this month, two young K-9s will be "delivered" to Chester County to begin their training regime.

But both dogs need names.

And Chester County Sheriff Fredda Maddox and her team are asking the Chester County community for suggestions.

“We are excited to welcome the two male K-9s in the next few weeks,” said Maddox. “Both of the dogs have been cho- The Chester County Sheriff's Office will soon receive sen because they show begin their training.

The dogs that currently the perfect tempera- hours of instruction over a ment and intelligence to number of months, and will serve as Chester County excel at being part of our train alongside their indi- K-9s are named Don, Cairo, Chester County Sheriff’s vidual handler partners who Marley, Maddie, Luke, Office K-9 team. Now, are current Chester County Dexter and retired K-9 all that they need are to sheriff’s deputies. Once ini- Yukon.

“For our two new dogs we be named as they begin tial training is complete, the their extensive training, dogs will join the current are looking for names that and we would like the sheriff’s office K-9 team are unique, but of course, Chester County commu- that specializes in detecting quick and easy to promissing people, narcotics or nounce,” added Maddox. nity to help us.”

To submit a suggestThe new trainee K-9s explosives, as well as a K-9 will undergo hundreds of that serves as a comfort dog. ed name for each of the Program as partial matching funds for the state grant.

The borough most likely won’t find out if the grant application was approved until the spring of 2021.

A public hearing was held regarding an update to the borough’s MS4 stormwater permit application. Scalise explained that the borough is seeking to get credits for some of the improvement work that has taken

place. This could offset the need for a larger project to meet MS4 stormwater requirements.

Borough council accepted the resignation of Human Relations Commission member Franco DiCarlo, who is stepping aside to focus more on his work with Kennett-area parks and the Kennett Library.

Additionally, borough council approved the

appointment of Nancy AyllonRamieez to the Kennett Area Parks Authority board.

Council president Dr. Brenda Mercomes said that there are currently three vacancies on the borough’s Advisory Commission on Latino Affairs, one vacancy on the Human Relations Commission, one vacancy on the Property Maintenance Appeals

Courtesy image

two K-9s, who will soon

Chester County Sheriff’s Office’s newest K-9s, email yukon@chesco.org by 5 p.m. on Friday, Sept.

18.

The two selected names will be announced by the end of September as each of the dogs begins its formal training to join the prestigious ranks of the Chester County sheriff’s office K-9 team.

Board. An alternate is also needed to serve on the Civil Service Commission.

Mercomes said that anyone who is interested should submit a letter of interest, a résumé, and a completed form to Rachel Berkowitz, the borough secretary, at rberkowitz@kennettsq.org.

To contact Staff Writer Steven Hoffman, email editor@chestercounty.com.

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2020

CHESTER COUNTY PRESS

5A

Chester County Press

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

Opinion

Editorial

Letters to the Editor

Harriet’s sisters

Which is it, John?

At about 6 p.m. last Thursday evening, as the eight women who formed the “We Walk with Harriet” team turned on to Birch Street in Kennett Square to celebrate the end of their 116-mile journey along the Tubman Byway to honor the memory and work of Harriet Tubman, none of them had any idea what lay immediately ahead of them.

They had begun their walk on Sept. 5 in Cambridge, Md. at the Brodess Farm, where Tubman had spent part of her childhood living in slavery, and now they were about to finish in a town that has become synonymous with the Underground Railroad and its place as a cornerstone of freedom.

As they walked side by side, their emotions became an exquisite blend of excitement, anticipation, exhaustion and reflection; the magnitude of what they had accomplished had suddenly caught up to them.

One walker, surrounded by local children of color who walked beside her, began weeping, comparing her journey – one where she and her companions were met in friendship and solidarity by strangers from Maryland to Kennett Square – to that of Tubman’s, who marched in the moonlight, guided only by lamplight and the North Star, always knowing that her life and the lives of those who accompanied her were in constant danger.

The women assumed that there would be a few residents waiting for them at the Kennett Creamery, where they imagined they would receive a small smattering of applause and acknowledgement. As they continued what would be the last steps of their journey, they saw a crowd of 150 residents ahead of them -- a half-circle, five-deep, diverse breadth of humanity who cheered on their every step.

It was not known for certain what precipitated the high decibels that surrounded the welcome of the eight women last Thursday evening.

Most likely, it was the recognition of their efforts to bring attention to an historical figure, who gave hope to thousands of freedom seekers, abolitionists, conductors and stationmasters.

Maybe they cheered at the beautiful audacity of eight women walking arm-in-arm toward them, who made the decision to puncture a tiny hole in a country torn by racial division in order to sow seeds of hope and unity.

Perhaps it was an affirmation of a word that had been applied to the women all along their route, used by people they passed in other towns.

It is the decision of everyone who has heard and seen the journey of these eight women over the past week whether or not to use the word “Hero.” It is for certain that for each of these women, all acknowledgement of heroism should be reserved not for them but for Harriet Tubman and Sojourner Truth and every abolitionist who dared speak and act against the grain of accepted ideals.

And yet, in this, the Year of Atrocity, our world could use more heroes. For those who welcomed the eight women who formed “We Walk With Harriet” last Thursday in Kennett Square, all of that cheering was a very welcome sound.

Chester County Press Randall S. Lieberman Publisher Steve Hoffman..................................Managing Editor Richard L. Gaw..................................Associate Editor Brenda Butt.........................................Office Manager Tricia Hoadley...........................................Art Director Alan E. Turn...............................Advertising Director Teri Turns................................Advertising Executive Helen E. Warren......................Advertising Executive Amy Lieberman.............Marketing/Public Relations The Chester County Press (USPS 416-500) is published every Wednesday by: AD PRO, Inc. 144 South Jennersville Rd, West Grove, PA 19390 Mailing Address: PO Box 150, Kelton, PA 19346 Telephone: (610) 869-5553 • FAX (610) 869-9628 E-mail (editor): editor@chestercounty.com HOURS: Monday- Friday 8 a.m. - 4 p.m., no weekend hours Annual Subscription Rate: $40.00 | Senior Citizen Rate - $30.00

NO REFUNDS AFTER RECEIPT OF SUBSCRIPTION PAYMENT Current and previous week's issues are &1.00 each.

Older issues are $1.50 each. Periodicals postage paid at Oxford, PA 19363. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Chester County Press, P.O. Box 150, Kelton, PA 19346.

The award winning Chester County Press

Letter to the Editor: In public, State Rep. John Lawrence has come out in support of "saving" the Chester Water Authority (CWA) from the evil clutches of Aqua America.

Although they recently changed their name to “Essential Utilities, Inc.,” make no mistake, they are still the same water-grabbing, for-profit company they’ve always been, gob-

bling up public water utilities as fast as they can.

We’re all concerned that a sale to Aqua would result in higher rates and reduced or eliminated access to Octoraro Reservoir, a favorite of boaters, fishermen, and hikers. Aqua is attempting a hostile takeover and taking the lead on that effort is none other than our recently resigned Pennsylvania Speaker of the House Mike Turzai. His

new job? General Counsel for Essential Utilities.

Mr. Turzai is a long-time proponent of privatizing public utilities. It is no surprise that Turzai’s election coffers have taken in over $50,000 from individuals and PACs associated with Aqua since 2007.

It caught my eye, then, when John Lawrence accepted a $25,000 donation from Mike Turzai for his PA-13 re-election

campaign.

For this cycle, that represents 65 percent of all the donations his campaign has received. Is John Lawrence really in on saving CWA, or is he waiting until after Nov. 3 to climb into Aqua’s pocket? I’d rather vote him out and go with someone who will protect CWA from “Essential Utilities.”

Russ Phifer London Grove Township

Weep No More My Ladies (The Ups and Downs of Churchill Downs)

By Marie-Louise Meyers My Old Kentucky Home is silent for a change only a bugler’s arrangement.

Throngs of spectators not to be found in Churchill Downs.

No vantage point given for the rich and famous, no flowered bonnets and silk derbies milling around, only thoroughbreds exchanging their racing vows with jockey’s colors vaulting flags of renown against the backdrop of colorless empty bleachers.

Only the echoic years of great steeds, not the vacant cheers,

and the silence drawn down as unearthly sounds prevail beating up the dusty trails of time.

Only the last Entry’s name as yet unknowable as to features, size and inclination, but it’s infamy spread far and wide across the borders of even the refined.

yearly in May now delayed to late Summer as though to circumvent the Truth.

Stephen Foster’s lyrics float in the compromised air empty and despairing with all the sentiments eluding us.

There is no racing sheet but statistics put It in the lead, home grown or anywhere known drawn to crowds no one dare sing about Only the track holds the spell with the jockey’s with any conviction. colors, The name of the winner only the spotlight held, everything else is merely almost eludes me except it’s Authentic, eyewash. the runner-up ’Tis the Interviews are held, but none dwell on the real Law but you’d Never know it, Intruder there will be no Triple of the Spectacle held

Crown Winner this time around.

Will we remember the horse’s blood lines born out via the breeder, owner, handler and trainer, and finally jockey who managed to make his way to victory or the Lock-downs all around us?

Will we remember the bleachers bare of spectators or the riots all around for injustices found still to exist long after Stephen Foster’s poignant lyrics caused such bliss among the Overseers of the Old South’s twist on Democracy.

Op-ed

Bipartisanship key to quality process for redistricting

By State Reps. Jared Solomon (202nd District), Jim Gregory (80th District) and Pamela DeLissio (194th District) Crises loom everywhere during these turbulent times, so you would be forgiven if the issue of gerrymandering was far down on your list of priorities. But it should not be. In fact, it plays a significant role in how your State Legislature and elected U.S. representatives handle the myriad threats, upheavals and opportunities we face right now. As is currently the process in State Senate, State House and congressional redistricting, due to gerrymandering, our elected officials select their voters by redrawing the boundaries in a partisan manner.

Efforts have been made for decades to place the boundary line-drawing process in the hands of an Independent Redistricting Commission. Those efforts have never succeeded.

The people of Pennsylvania and some of its elected leaders have long known and lamented that congressional redistricting is a partisan process. The bill to redraw these boundaries just needs to pass the Pennsylvania General Assembly and be signed by the governor – the same process used to rename a bridge. We should note that redrawing state legislative boundaries is done by a party-backed commission that would require a constitutional amendment to change, the opportunity for which, at least in 2020, has already come and gone.

So, in this age of polarization, it is noteworthy when a Republican from very-

conservative Blair County and two Democrats from very-liberal Philadelphia come together in a bipartisan way to tackle one aspect of gerrymandering. We are doing so via House Bill 2327, which establishes a new commission to redraw the congressional maps.

Many have indicated that past reform efforts have failed because there is not any legislative, administrative or agency input in the process. We set out to address these concerns and also create a redistricting commission that is citizen led. Our bill balances these political realities with the need for independence to minimize partisanship.

How? First, the secretary of state oversees an open application process where any interested and qualified Pennsylvanian can apply to be part of the commission. The qualifications are simple: you must be registered to vote and have voted in at least one of the last three statewide elections, not have switched parties recently, and have been a resident of Pennsylvania for a minimum of three years. No lobbyists, elected or party officials, or their family members would be eligible.

The application process will remain open until at least 60 Republicans, 60 Democrats, and 60 people who identify with neither party have applied. The secretary would then cull this list down to 120 (40 in each bucket) aiming to address diversity of geography, race, gender and ethnicity. Next, the majority and minority chairs of the House and Senate State Government committees would remove

five members from each bucket, leaving 60 possible commissioners. Then, the majority and minority leaders of the House and Senate would each pick a commissioner from their respective party (four in total), and the secretary – at an open public meeting – randomly selects one Republican, one Democrat and three unaffiliated members for a total of nine commissioners.

These nine commissioners would then meet and appoint six commissioners to arrive at the full, 15-person commission.

This spirit of both public involvement, random selection and party participation would continue throughout the deliberations and actions of the commission until the ultimate map is decided.

The work in crafting this legislation has been exhaustive, and we have engaged our colleagues directly in the appeal to get buyin and support, including holding exceedingly rare bipartisan caucuses. Alas, the bill remains stuck in the House State Government Committee, along with other similarly well-intentioned redistricting bills with bipartisan support.

Time is running out to do

something about it. And if we do not act now, congressional redistricting will occur in the same partisan manner as always, with the next opportunity for meaningful change to take effect in 2031.

Our last chance now with congressional redistricting reform comes at a time of low confidence in our governing bodies and rabid political polarization that stretches, to the breaking point, our ability to govern. Gerrymandering of political districts is a contributing factor (though not the only one) to both of those problems.

As our legislative session comes to an end and as our once-in-a-decade window closes to end congressional gerrymandering, we have a chance to empower you to decide how best to elect our political leaders.

This change will result in more citizens participating in the democratic process because individuals will have a direct voice in the contours of our democracy.

Let’s seize this moment and create a new political reality that breaks through the polarization of the present and provides the chance of political unification in the future.

6A

CHESTER COUNTY PRESS

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2020

Chester County Press

In the Spotlight

Section

B

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2020

Chocolate cake highlights second Taste of the Fair event

By Chris Barber Contributing Writer On Saturday, Sept. 12, the second of the Taste of the Fair events attracted scores of community members, fancy bakers, and classic car collectors. The event in Unionville had a theme of “Classic Chocolate,” and a judged chocolate contest was a highlight.

The Taste of the Fair events were planned after it became apparent that the regular Unionville Community Fair could not go on as scheduled because of the restrictions that are in place to slow the spread of the coronavirus pandemic.

Jayne Shea and Bonnie Musser, two women who have chaired the Unionville Community Fair, came up with the idea of organizing three smaller events, called Taste of the Fair, to be presented in August, September and October on the grounds of the Foxy Loxy Ice Cream Parlour and Coffee Shoppe. in Unionville.

At the Sept. 12 event, Charlie Brosius returned with the calliope he has reconditioned. Many of the

car enthusiasts who had taken part in the August event drove in again with their prized vehicles.

This month, however, the star of the show was the chocolate cake judging, which has long been a popular attraction during the 94-year history of the fair.

Three judges – Patrick Ruddy, Deb Rollins and Tina Brown —met in the Foxy Loxy parlor under the leadership of Terry Hawkins to taste and comment on 12 entries in the contest. These cakes weren’t humble bakery goods offered in quantity at the local grocery store.

They were elegant and beautiful, exhibiting the skill and work their creators had put into them.

In the end, the winning cake with multiple layers and topped with a circle of rosettes came from Emily Cwyk of Chadds Ford.

She called it “Modernizing Mom Mom’s Chocolate Cake.” Second place went to Addison Twesten.

“It was a tough competition with lots of good cakes,” Hawkins said.

Adding to the entertainment throughout the day

Photos by Chris Barber

Longtime judging chairperson Karen Statz, right, examines cake entries with Terry Hawkins.

was music from vinyl records provided by retired Unionville-Chadds Ford School District administrator Tom Marinelli. He brought a few of his 30 crates of old records and covers which he said he’s been accumulating since

his youth.

“I never threw any records away,” he said.

He was available during his visit for requests of music dating back to the 1950s. Currently, he and his wife, Karen, professionally provide “random

acts of music” for parties and other events.

Bill Combs, a member of Unionville High School’s

Class of 1963, was on hand to continue his horseshoe tournament and lessons, which he intends to offer again at the third installment of the Taste of the Fair events. Combs has competed at the national level in the sport, and said he is disappointed that

interest in it has waned as the years have gone by.

Over at the auto repair car garage and parking lot of Lou Mandich, several dozen owners of classic cars and jeeps brought them in for display.

Included in the group was State Rep. John Lawrence, a resident of Franklin Township, who brought over his newly acquired Continued on Page 5B

Aubrey Davidson, 4, in a princess dress, learns the ins and outs of cornholing with 2019 Fair Princess alternate Tomasina Petragnani.

Tom Marinelli’s vinyl records entertained guests at the second installment of Taste of the Fair in Unionville on Saturday.

Bonnie Musser, the longtime leader of the Unionville Community Fair, relaxes at a table at Foxy Loxy.

John Trout of West Chester shows off his rare 1912 Model T Ford called a “Torpedo.”

An inflatable balloon sign announces the Taste of the Fair event to passersby.

The judges join in the Foxy Loxy parlor to taste the 12 cakes entered in the competition.

Retired Unionville-Chadds Ford School District administrator Tom Marinelli spins old songs from his vinyl record collection.

State Rep. John Lawrence stands beside his recently acquired 1969 mail delivery truck.

2B

CHESTER COUNTY PRESS

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2020

Chester County Press

Obituaries BARRY L. SUPPLEE Barry L. Supplee, a resident of Oxford, passed away on Sept. 8 at Jennersville Hospital in West Grove. He was 60.

Born in West Grove, he was the son of Jack Supplee and the late Elizabeth Walters Supplee.

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

In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be made to First Baptist Church of Oxford, 552 Market St., Oxford, PA 19363.

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

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

NANCY MAXINE POOLE

BEULAH G. OSBORNE Beulah G. Osborne, a resident of Cochranville, passed away on Sept. 6.

She was 95.

She was the wife of Charlie Hart, who died in 1944; J. Elwood Lewis, who died in 1981; and Ray W. Osborne, who died in 2004.

Born in West Jefferson, Ash County, N.C., she was the daughter of the late Freil and Bertha Moxley Coldiron.

She retired from the Friends Home in Kennett Square where she worked as a nursing aid. She was a member of the Safe Harbor Baptist Church in Cochranville. She ran the Lewis Garage Sale on Route 41 for over 20 years.

She is survived by her children, Charles E. (Nancy L.), Joseph F. (Nancy J.), and William T. (Joanne) all of Cochranville, 5 grandchildren, 9 great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild.

Services were held on Sept. 14 at the Wilde Funeral Home in Parkesburg. Interment was at Glen Run Baptist Cemetery.

Arrangements were entrusted to Wilde Funeral Home of Parkesburg. Online condolences can be posted at www. wildefuneralhome.com.

Maxine Poole passed away on Sept.

3 at Oakleaf Manor in Millersville.

She was 89.

She was the wife of the late Robert James Poole, with whom she shared 65 years of marriage.

Born in Ashe County, N.C., she was the daughter of the late Charles and Rachel Ellis Cole.

Maxine was a member of the Nottingham Friends Meetinghouse in Oxford.

She is survived by two sons, Ronald Poole (Linda) of Cochranville and Robert Poole (Theresa) of Lancaster; 14 grandchildren; many great-grandchildren; one great-great Kathryn (Kay) Ethel McKinney grandchild; one brother, Bob Ellis of Florida; and one sisRichey met her Lord and Savior face ter, Billy Ruth of West Grove. to face on Sept. 10. She was 97.

She was preceded in death by one daughter, Brenda M. Kay had been a resident at Ware Paetz and one brother, Dan. Presbyterian Village over the past 7 A graveside service was held on Sept. 9 at Eastland years and has been patiently awaiting Friends Meeting Cemetery. the day she would finally “go home.”

Arrangements are being handled by the Edward L. Kay was the daughter of the late Collins, Jr. Funeral Home, Inc., Oxford.

Ethel Banker McKinney and Arthur Online condolences may be made at www.elcollinsfuMcKinney. She grew up on the family farm in Plattsburg, neralhome.com.

N.Y. with her sister, Laura Mae McKinney.

Kay graduated with a degree in English from Eastern Nazarene College. She played basketball, was a cheerleader, and wrote for the school paper. It was also where she met Myron Eugene Richey.

Always together, they shared 60 years of marriage. Kay was a loving wife and faithfully supported her husband through their 60 years of service as pastor and wife in the Church of the Nazarene. Kay was a prayer warrior, a faithful Sunday school teacher, mentor and alto choir member.

Being a mom was her joy. She had four children over the span of 20 years. She enjoyed a clean home and providing three square meals a day. She made sure prayer was a part of the start of each day and made music an activity to remember. She looked forward to family vacations in the Adirondack mountains of New York.

Kay is preceded in death by her husband and sister.

She is survived by four children, Craig and Cheryl Richey of Painesville, OH; Jim and Donna Richey of Mentor, OH; Kathy and Jim St. John of Lincoln University, Pa.; and Laurie Richey of North Wales, Pa. She is also survived by 8 grandchildren and 6 great- grandchildren.

To the very end, Kay always wore a smile, giving evidence of God’s goodness and faithfulness to her.

Her viewing will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. on Thursday evening, Sept. 17 at the Avon Grove Church of the Nazarene, 240 State Road, West Grove, and again from 10 to 11 a.m. on Friday, Sept. 18 at the Avon Grove Church of the Nazarene.

Her Funeral service will follow at 11 a.m.

Burial will be in Union Hill Cemetery in Kennett Square.

Due to COVID-19 restrictions, everyone is asked to wear a mask and practice social distancing.

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

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

KATHRYN RICHEY

Alleluia Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times and in every way.

2 Thessalonians 3:16 The Chester County Press features a dedicated church/religious page that can help you advertise your house of worship and/or business. The page is updated weekly with new scripture. Only $10 Weekly for this space.

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

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

Compliments of

Lions Club of Oxford

HERR FOODS, INC. NOTTHINGHAM, PA

932-9330 ENCOURAGES YOU TO ATTEND THE CHURCH OF YOUR CHOICE

P.O. Box 270 Oxford, PA 19363 Meets First and Third Thursday at 6:30p.m.

Nottingham Inn, Nottingham, PA

Landenberg Church United Methodist All Are Welcome 205 Penn Green Rd. In Historic Downtown Landenberg Landenberg, PA 19350

610-274-8384 Services Every Sunday • 9:00 am

THOMAS A. CHAIRES Thomas A. Chaires, age 60 of Avondale, passed away on Sept. 7 at Jennersville Hospital.

He was the loving husband of Cynthia Weston Chaires, with whom he shared nearly 40 years of marriage.

The two met in high school at age 16 and were together ever since.

Tom graduated from Avon Grove High School and later went on to work as a mechanic for General Motors. Following his position as a mechanic, he worked at Cann Printing, a job that he came to greatly y enjoy.

Tom was passionate about woodworking, boating, motorcycles and cars – anything with an engine. He also w had an artistic and creative way about him. Tom liked antiques and often amazed family and friends with his ability to restore old items and make them look brand new.

Tom was the type of person who always had a smile on his w face and a joke to brighten your day. He had a kind heart and deeply loved his family.

In addition to his wife, Cynthia, Tom is survived by his h two sons, Sean Thomas Chaires (Crystle) and Andrew w Leslie Chaires (Danielle and fur baby, Coconut); his mother, Faytha King Chaires; his brother, Kenneth Richard, Jr. (Cindy); sister, Carol Bauder (Dan); and grandchildren, U Kylee and Spencer.

Tom was predeceased by his father, Kenneth Richard, Sr. h r and his sister, Charlotte Pfeiffer.

Services were held on Sept. 11 with interment at New London Presbyterian Cemetery.

Memorial contributions in Tom’s honor may be made to the American Cancer Society, 1818 Market St., Suite 2820, Philadelphia, PA 19103.

Arrangements were handled by Foulk Funeral Home in b West Grove.

DOROTHY MAE HARTMAN Dorothy Mae Hartman, 93, of U Kennett Square, died peacefully in her home on Sept. 7.

Dot was born May 4, 1927 in Winston-Salem, N.C. to the late Irene (Johnson) and Everett Binkley Sr. Her family moved to Kennett Square when she was four years old and remained there for the rest of her life. Dot graduated from Kennett High School in 1945.

Dot was preceded in death by her husband of 50 years, Paul Hartman, in 1998, her daughter, Linda LaFrance, in 1988, her sisters, Irene, Sara, Mary Lou and her brothers, Everett Jr., Clyde, Robert and Edward.

She is survived by her children, Carol Smith of South Bloomingville, OH, Barbara Troutman of Kennett Square, Robert Hartman (Rosemarie) of West Chester and Charles Hartman of Kennett Square. She is also survived by a brother, Thomas Binkley of Media, Pa., and 10 grandchildren, 20 great-grandchildren and 4 greatgreat grandchildren.

Dot retired from Kennett Middle School after a 30-year career. Most of her career was spent working as a secretary for various middle school principals. Dot was continuously active after retirement, bowling in several leagues, playing pinochle in various card clubs, volunteering at the food cupboard in Kennett Square and participating in the Kennett After School Program. She was also an active member of the Kennett Alumni Association.

A private graveside service for the family was held on Sept. 11.

Memorial contributions may be made to Willow Tree Hospice, 616 East Cypress Street, Kennett Square, PA 19348.

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.

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2020

CHESTER COUNTY PRESS

3B

Chester County Press

Obituaries ELIZABETH ALBERTS

CONSTANCE F. MACNEAL

ESTHER MAY AKEHURST

Elizabeth (Liza) Donovan Alberts, 69, of Unionville, died at her home following a long illness. She is survived by her husband Harry Alberts and sons, Stephen Alberts (fiancée Marisa Smith) of Lancaster, Pa., and Christopher Alberts of Unionville.

She was predeceased by her parents, Jeremiah and Mary Rita Donovan, and her brother, Michael Donovan.

Liza was born in Stamford, Conn. and spent her early years residing with her parents in Pound Ridge, N.Y. She was a graduate of Moore College of Art in Philadelphia, where she earned a bachelor of arts degree with a major in photography.

She was fortunate to have enjoyed a successful career in the arts, working as a production artist at the marketing and advertising agency of Richard P. Ritter. She also worked for Charles P. Mills, Commercial Photography Studio in Philadelphia.

Liza retired from her chosen field to stay home to raise her sons. After ten years, she began a fulfilling career working as a library assistant at Unionville High School.

Liza was a person who loved a good book and loved working with the students and her coworkers at Unionville. Art was woven into the fabric of Liza’s life and her creativity was beautifully expressed through her hobbies and interests, which included landscape photography, gardening, basketry, artful pillows, and jewelry that featured shells, seas glass and other treasures she collected during the family’s travels.

Services are private.

Arrangements have been made by Kuzo Funeral Home.

To commemorate the life of Liza, memorial contributions may be sent to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, (LLS.org), 100 N. 20th St., FL4, Philadelphia, PA 19103.

The family gratefully acknowledges the loving care and support provided by Penn Hospice Services and University of Pennsylvania Hospital.

Liza appreciated the comforting, tidal rhythms of quiet living and softly spoken words. Beneath this gentle personality was a sustaining strength. This strength is her gift to her family and friends.

Constance F. MacNeal, an 84-yearold resident of Oxford, passed away at Ware Presbyterian Village on Sept. 9.

Constance was the wife of the late William H. MacNeal III, who passed away Dec. 25, 2004, and with whom she shared 44 years of marriage.

Born in Oxford on Aug. 7, 1936, she was the daughter of the late Joseph and Florence (Taylor) Fisher.

She was a lifelong resident of Oxford. Connie was a 1953 graduate of Oxford Area High School. After high school, she worked for RCA in Lancaster.

Later, she worked as the secretary of East Nottingham Township for 31 years.

Connie was a homemaker who enjoyed gardening, canning, cooking, and annual beach vacations with her family.

She also enjoyed spending time with her two granddaughters who brought her great joy. Connie was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and aunt.

She is survived by her daughter, Janice Price (James) of Oxford; two granddaughters, Ashley Price-Gillinger (John) and Sarah Price both of Oxford; a brother, Joseph Fisher (Gayle) of Oxford; two foster brothers, David Bristow and Frank Jobeck, both of Oxford; sister-in-law Cheryl Russell of Weirton, WV, and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her sister, Barbara England; brother-in-law, Floyd England; brother, Howard Fisher; sister-in-law, Sandy Fisher; foster brother, James Russell; and sister-in-law, Nancy Hicklen.

A graveside service was held on Sept. 12 at Oxford Cemetery.

Connie’s family would like to thank the staff at Ware Presbyterian Village and Willow Tree Hospice for the wonderful care they provided.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Connie’s memory may be made to Willow Tree Hospice care of Amedisys Foundation 3854 American Way, Suite A, Baton Rouge, LA 70816.

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

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

Esther May Akehurst, a resident of Wilmington, Del., passed away on Sept. 6, at her residence. She was 94.

She was the wife of James E. Akehurst, Sr., with whom she shared 66 years of marriage.

Born in Rosedale, Pa., she was the daughter of the late Paul Neide and the late Ella Kruss Neide.

She was a homemaker and she enjoyed doing crafts, gardening, watching TV and being with her family and friends. Mrs. Akehurst attended the Church of the Brethren in Wilmington, Del. In addition to her husband, she is survived by two sons, James E. Akehurst, Jr. (Angela Knight) of Newark, Del. and John P. Akehurst of West Chester, Pa.; two daughters, Linda L. Riley ( William) of Wilmington, Del. and Della M. Akehurst of Pottsgrove, Pa.; one brother, Robert Neide of Coatesville, Pa. and one granddaughter, Amanda Akehurst.

She was predeceased by eight brothers and three sisters.

Her graveside service will be held at 1 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 25 at the Longwood Cemetery, 945 East Baltimore Pike in Kennett Square.

In lieu of flowers, a contribution may be made to Faithful Friends Animal Society, 12 Germay Drive, Wilmington, DE 19804.

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

DOMENICO RUFFINI Domenico Ruffini, a resident of West Grove, died peacefully at home while surrounded by his family on Aug. 8. He was 92.

He was the husband of Lillian Passante Ruffini. Born on Oct. 22, 1927 in Musellaro, Italy, he was the son of the late Michael Ruffini and the late Loreta Profeta.

Domenico worked in the coal mines of Belgium and pursued careers in Canada. He met Lillian, the love of his life, in New York City in 1951. They married in 1953.

Domenico initially worked at the General Motors assembly plant before becoming interested in starting his own barbershop. He attended barber school in Philadelphia and obtained his license in 1958.

He opened Ruffini’s Barber Shop in West Grove in 1964. It is still in operation today and is now run by his son, John.

Domenico enjoyed gardening, spending time with family, and bringing people together. In 1980, Domenico was elected to the West Grove Borough Council, serving the community for over 20 years. In 1998, he was responsible for organizing the funds to build the Avon

Grove Veterans Memorial in West Grove.

He also was instrumental in organizing the annual Avon Grove Memorial Day Parade which still continues today after 22 years.

Domenico was presented with the Citizen of the Year Award from the Avon Grove Lions Club in 2003, and he was also honored with a Senate Citizenship Award in 2019. This was presented to him by State Sen. Andrew Dinniman.

In addition to his parents, he was pre-deceased by two brothers, Peter Ruffini and Anthony Ruffini and a sister, Sylvia DiNardo.

He is survived by his wife of 66 years and their children, Michael Ruffini, Donna Hannum (William) and John Ruffini (Diane). He is also survived by his grandchildren, Jonathan and Christopher Ruffini and Bryan and Kathryn Hannum, sisters Iola Tabellione and Mary Lucente, and many loving nieces and nephews.

Services and interment were private.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Assumption BVM Church, 300 State Road, West Grove, PA 19390 or Avon Grove Memorial Parade, 104 Rosehill Avenue, West Grove, PA 19390.

To view Domenico’s online tribute and to share a message with his family, visit www.kuzoandfoulkfh.com.

Arrangements are being handled by Foulk Funeral Home of West Grove.

JEFFREY J. SCOTT Jeffrey J. Scott, a resident of Cochranville, Pa., passed away on Sept. 9 during emergency surgery for a ruptured aorta aneurysm. He was 65.

Jeff was born March 29, 1955 in Rushville, IL. He is survived by his parents George C. and Shirley A. (Jacobs) Scott.

Jeff was a graduate of Unionville High School, Class of 1973. He furthered his education by attending Xavier University of Ohio, Southern Illinois University and the University of Arizona.

For 27 years, Jeff was the owner of the Pak-n-Ship Stores in Kennett Square and Jennersville. He was devoted to his business and was very personable with his customers. His businesses routinely were ranked in the top 100 UPS stores in the U.S. He is survived by his parents; six siblings, Margaret Daniel (Gary), Steven Scott (Roslyn), David Scott, Barbara Elliott (Michael), Patricia Dooley (Stephen) and Diane Burkin (Brian); and many nieces and nephews.

Services are private at this time due to the coronavirus pandemic.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Jeff’s name may be made to the American Heart Association, online at Heart.org, calling 1-800-242-8721 or by mail to AHA, PO Box 471005, Boston, MA 02241-7005.

Online condolences may be made at www.kuzoandfoulkfn.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 5pm 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.

4B

CHESTER COUNTY PRESS

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2020

Chester County Press

Local News Calendar of Events Sept. 19 Community yard sale A community yard sale hosted by the Oxford Senior Center will take place from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 19. There will be numerous tables and vendors.

Items expected to be available include gently used clothing, books, tools, furniture, vintage dishes, glassware, garden tools, shoes, handbags, costume jewelry, games, puzzles, and so much more.

Sept. 23 and Sept. 30 Virtual gallery talk with Victoria Wyeth Victoria Browning Wyeth presents a virtual gallery talk to share her uniquely personal perspectives on her grandparents, artist Andrew Wyeth and Betsy James Wyeth through a discussion of Wyeth’s paintings.

This virtual gallery talk will focus on paintings in the Andrew Wyeth

Gallery, including portraits of Betsy—his life partner, business manager and muse—which are on view through Jan. 10, 2021 at the Brandywine River Museum of Art in honor of Betsy’s recent passing.

The program will be held online via Zoom and participants may submit questions in advance during the registration process. Registrants will receive a link to the the live Zoom discussion

room in their confirmation email. The room will open 10 minutes prior to the start of the event.

Tickets are $25 for nonmembers and $20 for Brandywine members and Farnsworth Art Museum members. Limited tickets are available. This event typically sells out quickly.

Proceeds from this program support the Brandywine Conservancy and Museum of Art.

Legals ESTATE NOTICE

ESTATE OF CLIFTON WEBB PENNEWELL, DECEASED. Late of East Nottingham Township, Chester County, PA, LETTERS TESTAMENTARY on the above Estate have been granted to the undersigned, who request all persons having claims or demands against the estate of the decedent to make known the same and all persons indebted to the decedent to make payment without delay to CHRISTINE M. DeMITIS, 1930 Lawrence Rd., C-31, Havertown, PA 19083 and PATRICIA A. KLEIN, 311 Ryan Rd., Florence, MA 01062, EXECUTRICES, Or to their Attorney: DANIEL J. SIEGEL, LAW OFFICES OF DANIEL J. SIEGEL, LLC, 66 W. Eagle Rd., Ste. 1,Havertown, PA 19083 9p-2-3t

ESTATE NOTICE

FOR MORE INFORMATION CALL 610-869-5553

Notice is hereby given of the administration of the Dorothy M Bush Trust dtd 3/30/11.Settlor l, late of Lower Oxford Township, Chester County, Pennsylvania died 3/14/20. All persons having claims against the decedent are requested to make known the same and all persons indebted to the decedent to make payment without delay to: Lisa Crews, Trustee, C/O Patricia A. Coacher, Esq., 166 Allendale Road, King of Prussia, PA 19406 9p-2-3t

ESTATE NOTICE

ESTATE OF George S. Daly, Late of Blue Bell, 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: Diane P. Daly, Executrix, c/o Louis Petriello, Esq., Petriello & Royal, LLC, 526 Township Line Rd., Suite 200, Blue Bell, PA 19422, Bl Petriello & Royal, LLC, 526 Township Line Rd, Suite 200, Blue Bell, PA 19422 9p-9-3t

ESTATE NOTICE

ESTATE OF Lawrie R. Drennen, late of Oxford Borough, Chester County, Deceased. Letters Testamentary on the estate of the above named Lawrie R. Drennen 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: Lawrie R. Drennen, Jr., Co- Executor, Chris Drennen, Co-Executor, c/o Attorney: Winifred Moran Sebastian, Esquire, 208 E. Locust Street, P.O. Box 381 Oxford, PA 19363 9p-9-3t

ESTATE NOTICE

ESTATE OF Daniel Alan Pugh late of Oxford, Chester County, Deceased.

Letters of Administration on the estate of the above named Daniel Alan Pugh 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: Cynthia D. Pugh, Administrator, c/o Attorney: Winifred Moran Sebastian, Esquire, 208 E. Locust Street , P.O. Box 381 Oxford, PA 19363, Phone: 610-932-3838.

9p-9-3t

Classifieds Help Wanted Experienced preferred in home carpet and hard surface installations, but will train the right person. Call 484-4291924 , ask for Larry.

Full Time Public Works Position London Grove Township is accepting applications to fill a full time skilled laborer/driver position in the Public Works Department. Position requires ability to perform a variety of duties involving manual labor, semi-skilled trade work, and equipment operation, as assigned by the Director of Public Works. Applicant must be able to lift 70 pounds and work at heights, in confined spaces, and adverse weather conditions. Applicants must process or be able to obtain a PA Class “A” license with Airbrakes and Tanker within 6 months of hire. All applicants must be a minimum of 18 years old, possess a valid driver’s license and have clean criminal and driving records.

Previous municipal, construction and/

or equipment operation experience a plus. Starting salary range $17 to $19 per hour, with benefits. London Grove Township is an equal opportunity employer. Submit applications to London Grove Township, Attn: Director of Public Works, 372 Rose Hill Road, Suite 100, West Grove, Pa 19390. Complete job description along with application is available at www. londongrove.org Applications will be accepted until positions are filled.

Mechanical Engineer wanted by Joseph M McGillian Associates, Inc. in West Chester, PA to perform mechan’l bldg dsgn & analysis. Must have 2 yrs exp in mechan’l or energy engg & a Professional Engrg (PE) License in any state. For addl. details visit http:// pcemep.com/employment/.

Email resume to info@pcemep.com & ref.

Job Requisition No.: 2020-01 Yard Sale Lincoln University, 318 Ashmund Ave. and Lincoln Community Center Open year round.

Something new every week.

See these local businesses and many more on our website - Click Directory Inquire Now! Poison Ivy • Brush & Weed Control

Green Grazers 484-643-6939 Go Green, Go Goats Economical, Eco-Friendly All Natural Land Clearing Service for Small and Large Areas

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

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

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

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

610-268-3243

Trailer Repair Welding

Truck Acces.

Spray Liners

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

Over 40 Years Experience UHAUL

Hitches

Commercial & Residential

Free Estimates Insured

JOHN’S LAWN SERVICE – Established 1985 –

Lawn Maintenance Mulching Trees Planted Hardscaping Mowing Trimming

Landscaping Brush Cutting Field Mowing Chipping Skid Loader Tractor Work

610-467-1103

E

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2020

CHESTER COUNTY PRESS

5B

Chester County Press

Local News Who owned your property in 1777?

Chester County Unveils Interactive Tool to Help You Trace It In conjunction with the anniversary of the Battle of the Brandywine, held on Sept. 11, 1777, Chester County Archives and Records Services has released a new interactive tool that helps you discover who lived on your property in September 1777.

The 1777 Chester County Property Atlas is an interactive map that allows researchers to easily see who owned properties in 1777, and if those owners or occupants reported any losses caused by British troops during the Philadelphia Campaign of the Revolutionary War. The culmination of years of research by Chester County Archives staff, the project’s original intent was to assist with interpretation and preservation of events surrounding the Battle of Brandywine. After he developed a research methodology to map the public road network and locate residents who claimed damages, archivist Cliff Parker saw the potential to expand the project into an historical atlas. As a result, most of the municipalities researched and mapped so far are in the southern portion of Chester County, where the military events unfolded. The project is ongoing, and additional township maps will be added

Taste of the Fair...

Continued from Page 1B

1969 mail delivery Keyser truck.

Several other owners showed off the interiors of their classic cars and explained the upgrades they had provided.

Visitor Jeannine Gingras brought along her granddaughter Aubrey Davidson, who was wearing a yellow, storybook fairy princess dress her grandma said she had picked up at a Disney store. Aubrey was introduced to the sport of cornhole pitching by 2019 Unionville Community Fair Princess Alternate Tomasina Petragnani.

Vendors returned as

as research is completed.

“It has been gratifying to see the project evolve into a major research tool for Chester County history,” says Chester County Archives Director Laurie A. Rofini. “What the Archives staff has produced is truly remarkable. Anyone who has attempted property research will recognize the enormous effort that had to go into this in order to create something so detailed yet so accessible. I recommend looking at the instructional video that Assistant Archivist John E. Smith III created to really get a sense of the information behind the maps.”

The research behind each township has produced copious amounts of documentation and stories that cannot be conveyed in standard 2D maps.

With the assistance of the Chester County Planning Commission, the Archives used ArcGIS mapping software to create the 1777 Chester County Atlas, which includes an instructional video to help you get the most out of the research tool.

Rofini says the project has increased understanding not only of events in September 1777, but also of the colonial history of Chester County.

The research has contributed

to planning reports that provide recommendations for historic preservation, open space preservation as well as heritage interpretation and tourism for each municipality in the 35,000-acre battlefield. It has also led to the creation of a number of blog posts, story maps and videos.

Township maps included at this point are Birmingham, Caln, East Bradford, East Brandywine, East Caln, East Goshen, East Marlborough, East Nottingham, Elk, Franklin and London Britain, Kennett, Lower Oxford, New Garden, New London, Newlin, Pennsbury, Pocopson, Thornbury, Upper Oxford, West Bradford, West Brandywine, West Goshen, West Whiteland and Westtown.

Chester County Archives and Records Services invites researchers to share their land ownership and ancestral stories on its Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/ChescoArchives.

Chester County Archives and Records Services was established in 1982 to preserve and make accessible the County’s historic government records. It is administered by Chester County Historical Society in partnership with the County of Chester. www.chesco.org/ archives.

Two new board members named to DCCC Educational Foundation Joseph J. Maloney, vice president of business development, sales and marketing for Crozer-Keystone Health System, and Jaclyn Miley, events and communications manager for the Delaware County Chamber of Commerce, were recently named to the Educational Foundation of Delaware County Community College’s Board of Directors.

Maloney, who resides in Romansville, leads business development and communication efforts for Crozer-Keystone Health System in Springfield, as well as sales and marketing initiatives across four hospitals, multiple outpatient centers and ambulatory surgery centers. He was previously assistant vice president for business development at Crozer-Keystone. Prior to Crozer-Keystone, he was director of practice administration and development for Erickson Living Communities in Glen Mills.

He holds a Master’s in Business Administration and a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Wheeling Jesuit University (now Wheeling University) in West Virginia.

Miley, who resides in Media, plans and coordinates Delaware County

well, including booths for honey, chocolate, soap and decorative signs. Abram Broughton brought an elaborate display of honey with varieties that ranged from totally raw to thin sticks to sweeten tea.

The attendance didn’t abate throughout the day, with visitors, including many local high school students, sticking around to order ice cream and snacks from Foxy Loxy. A substantial number of the adults, including Musser, gathered at tables to survey the scene and talk about the fair.

The third installment of “Taste of the Fair” will be held on Oct. 10 at the Foxy Loxy property with an apple and pumpkin theme.

Children are invited to Photos by Chris Barber come in costumes on that Bill Combs shows his winning form with horseday. shoes.

Help Wanted

ROBERTS SERVICE AND TOWING We are looking for a TOW TRUCK DRIVER/ MECHANIC who is at least 25 years old and has a current DOT medical card. We are looking for someone who has good communication skills and a professional appearance who is skilled at customer service. The applicant must be able to pass a pre-employment drug test as well as random drug tests and should live within 15 minutes of the Chadds Ford area.

This position can be either full or part time and entails being scheduled on-call during week nights and weekends.

It also involves light mechanical work.

We are a family run business and offer a friendly work atmosphere. Compensation will be based on experience and ability.

CONTACT US at 610-388-6355 or by email at info@robertsserviceandtowing.com.

Joseph J. Maloney

Jaclyn Miley

Donna M. Stillwell

Brian Wilbur Coyle

Chamber of Commerce networking events, handles press and marketing, and directs the Foundation of the Delaware County Chamber of Commerce’s Leadership Delaware County, Career Awareness and Youth Leadership Academy programs. She also collaborates with Chamber board members, partners and local school districts to identify grant opportunities, develop proposals and implement workforce development programing.

She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies from Kutztown University and a certificate from the Leadership Delaware County program.

Founded in 1980 as a non-profit charitable organization, the Delaware County Community College Educational Foundation

board consists of 24 prominent business and community leaders who work with alumni, community members, businesses, corporations and foundations to provide $2 million annually for the College’s students, faculty, educational programs and facilities.

The Educational Foundation is chaired by Brian Wilbur Coyle, president and chief executive officer of the Henderson Group. The vice chair is Donna M. Stillwell, a certified public accountant, certified fraud examiner and partner at Brinker Simpson & Company, Certified Public Accountants and Advisors.

Rachael Hunsinger Patten is the Foundation’s executive director, and she also is vice president of Institutional Advancement at the College.

NOW HIRING

Cumberland Truck Equipment Co. (CTE), one of the largest privately-held distributors of heavy-duty truck parts in the midAtlantic region, has an immediate opening for a local, full time Delivery Driver, driving a delivery van, at our Nottingham Branch location, 470 West Christine Road, Nottingham, PA 19362 (610) 932-1152. Position is 1st shift, Monday-Friday.

Hiring Manager: Jim DeGeorge. Applicant should have knowledge of local area and a good driving record.

Requirements 21 years of age or older Able to lift unassisted up to 75 pounds Valid driver’s license with good driving record Able to maintain good customer relationships Preferred High School Diploma or equivalent Offered Bene ts: Medical, Dental, Vision, 401(k), Life, Holiday & Vacation pay, others APPLY ONLINE AT: http://www.cumberland truck.com/more/employment.aspx

Equal Opportunity Employer. Veterans are encouraged to apply

6B

CHESTER COUNTY PRESS

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2020

Crushed Stone Showers By Home Smart Industries

Project time: 2

weeks

2 DAYS!

DON’T SETTLE FOR PLASTIC SHOWER WALLS

Home ome S Smart Industries is the areas only Authorized Dealer of Kohler’s LuxStone S % shower wall system made of 70 Alabama crushed marble and professionally installed at prices comparable to acrylic showers. Design your bathtub or shower TGRNCEGOGPV YKVJ QWT VTCKPGF CPF EGTVKſGF 5RGEKCNKUVU CV C RTKEG [QW ECP CHHQTF

$

1,000 OFF

ANY SHOWER REMODEL

|

0 DOWN, 0% APR FINANCING $

|

NEW! COLORS, FAUCETS, DOORS & ACCESSORIES

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 RNWU ſPCPEKPI UQ C UJQYGT TGOQFGN KU affordable on any budget.

|

CALL NOW FOR YOUR FREE

DESIGN CONSULTATION

|

484-209-6082 INDUSTRIES Bathtubs | Showers | Kohler Walk-In Baths

Authorized Dealer

Bathtubs | Walk-In Baths | Showers | Safety Showers

www.HomeSmartind.com

Must call this number for discounts ^^^

*Cannotbecombinedwithanyotheroffer.Previoussalesexcluded.Goodatinitialpresentationonly.Discountscannotbecombinedwithanyotheroffer.Additionalworkisextraandoptional.Financingavailableforqualifiedbuyers.

NO PRICE QUOTES WILL BE GIVEN VIA PHONE. 13 Mount Pleasant Drive Aston, Pennsylvania 19014.