William Fitzpatrick appointed to fill Oxford Borough Council vacancy
By Betsy Brewer Brantner Contributing Writer
Oxford Borough Council voted to appoint William Fitzpatrick to fill the vacancy that was created when Mary Higgins resigned from the position. Fitzpatrick will fill the remainder of the term which ends in January of 2024.
Borough Council also
held a public hearing about the bid renewal for Oxford Mainstreet, Inc. (OMI). Brian Dix, the OMI executive director, spoke briefly to the council and the public.
“We have a few minor changes to make to the plan, and the most notable is the time frame,” Dix said. “That should be changed to read from 2023 to 2027. That will be changed before
it is distributed. We had some items on the budget that were not correct, which included a title in the budget and a figure which should be changed. Those items are being corrected as well.”
He added, “Everything else is correct. As we noted we added one property on Market Street. The amount of the tax has not increased. This is the third renewal.”
Former Kennett School Board member questions new logo
By Chris Barber Contributing Writer
A former Kennett Consolidated School District board member has expressed concern about what appears to be a new school logo.
Nick Perigo, a graduate from the class of 1977 who also serves as a volunteer football coach for the team, said he was seeking “clarification and information” at the Sept. 12 board meeting about a “K” surrounded by a circle that he’s seen “out and about” in Kennett Square. He told the board members during the meeting’s public input session that the new design has recently appeared
on T-shirts, certificates and public announcements representing the Kennett Consolidated School District, replacing the traditional block “K.” He added that unnamed folks connected with the school have told him it’s the “new logo” or possibly an additional academic one.
Not having heard anything about it previously, Perigo said he checked the board minutes to ascertain the logo’s approval, but found none.
He also said he called Alumni Association President Bob George – a member of the Class of 1964, who told Perigo he
Continued on page 2A
Dix said that although the pandemic did pose problems for local businesses, it did keep people from traveling out of the area.
“People tended to shop local and more people came to the downtown during the pandemic,” he said. “That was an unexpected plus. We did have to cancel some events, but we actually held 40-plus events during that time. We are continu-
ing to move forward with our theatre project. Our staff did turn over during the pandemic, but we currently have two paid staff members and numerous volunteers. We are excited about moving forward with the theatre and anxious to see how that brings people to our town.”
Oxford Mainstreet, Inc. was started in 2001 and strives to foster economic
growth while preserving the town’s rich history and charm. Throughout the year, the organization plans numerous community events, including the monthly First Friday street fairs, the annual Car Show and Country Christmas celebrations.
Current OMI board president John McGlothlin spoke highly of OMI saying, “It
FROM OUR LENS
ChristianaCare shares updates on plans for West Grove campus
At community meeting hosted by Rep. John Lawrence and Herr Foods, ChristianaCare and Chester County business leaders discuss community health needs and the future of ChristianaCare’s newest campus ChristianaCare West Grove Campus.
Since June, when ChristianaCare announced the purchase of the former Jennersville Hospital from Tower Health, ChristianaCare leaders have been meeting regularly with community leaders and small groups to gain input into planning for what is now called the
On Wednesday, Sept. 14, ChristianaCare shared new details about the planning process for the campus with Chester County business leaders at an event organized and led by Pennsylvania State Rep. John Lawrence and hosted at the Herr’s Snack Factory visitor center auditorium.
By Richard L. Gaw Staff Writer
If one’s complete assessment of an individual begins and ends with the content of a photograph, then the one taken of 31-year-old Atglen resident Nick Madrigale that accompanies this article tells the story of a man who has been given everything. There he is, gathered with his long-time partner Danielle Hayes and their four children – two daughters and two sons –on a trip to Disney World, and the glint in Madrigale’s eye can be indicative of another
sunny day at the happiest place in America, or the supreme sense of peace and enjoyment he is feeling, knowing that those he loves the most are beside him…everything he has ever wanted from life.
Yet, there is one thing that Madrigale needs that is both invisible to the camera’s eye and yet absolutely vital to the sustainability of his life. It forms the continuing conversation he has had for many years with others and with himself that sounds often like a prayer and a whisper and a plea.
“As a nonprofit health system, we have a mission of service to our neighbors—and you are our neighbors. We are honored and so excited to be here to support your health needs in southern Chester County,” said Douglas P. Azar, ChristianaCare senior vice president, strategic clinical integration.
After a brief overview of ChristianaCare, Azar addressed the two biggest questions on everyone’s mind: What are you going to do with the West Grove Campus, and when will it open?
$17,000 raised toward $50,000 goal
“Emergency services has quickly risen as the most significant need in this community,” Azar said. “It continues to come up time and again in our discussions with the community that the most urgent need is emergency care. That’s our first priority.”
Six standout athletes from
Photo by Richard L. Gaw
The incomparable Patti LaBelle delivered a stunning 90-minute set on Sept. 13 before a near sold-out audience at Longwood Gardens. “An Evening with Patti LaBelle” served as a fundraiser to benefit the new Kennett Library & Resource Center, currently under construction and slated to open next spring. For a complete story and additional photos, see Page 1B.
Courtesy photo
Nick Madrigale with his significant other Danielle Hayes and their four children.
Speaker series to focus on building better Kennett community...5B
Kennett logo...
Continued from Page 1A
had heard nothing about it and had not been contacted by the school.
This left Perigo with three issues: That the new logo was not approved by the board; that having a new logo and an old one present at the same time confused rather than clarified the district “brand”; and the fear that the school administration would merely go ahead and incrementally replace all the block “K” logos including the water tower, the football field, the parking lot flags and the gym floor without notice.
He added he personally feels sentimentally that the “K” block can stand on its own and reflects more correctly than the circled “K” the traditions of Kennett High School and its town.
George, for his part, said he had concerns about the lack of communication the administration appeared to have had with alumni.
He said when he heard about the change, he called School Board President Vicki Gehrt, and she told him the logo was “in the works” and that she had advised Communications Specialist Nikki Laws, who is working on the branding project, to make sure the alumni were on board.
“Nobody knew about it except in the workings of the administration. They didn’t seem to think it was important,” George said.
George also spoke about logos in general. He said the logo of a company or organization is intellectual property and protected by copyright. Legally, logos that copy another brand or that are taken by another
risk legal action, he said.
Gehrt has, in several of the past board meetings, mentioned that Laws was working on the school’s branding. Branding has been defined as “the promotion of a particular product or company by means of advertising and distinctive design.”
Following Perigo’s presentation at the meeting, Gehrt told him, “I hope you continue to have a discussion with Nikki [Laws].”
In response to questions about the board’s lack of approval, Gehrt wrote in an email, “The board is fully aware of the task force and its work on ‘re-branding.’
The process is not complete, and final branding recommendations come to the board in October.”
Laws wrote: “The yearlong KCSD brand refresh project has been informed
by a diverse group of stakeholders, including students, families, staff, board mem-
New Garden to perform forensic audit on heels of former manager’s resignation
By Richard L. Gaw Staff Writer
John Granger, a veteran of municipality management whose previous stops were in Aston, Exeter, Radnor, Solesbury and West Vincent townships, was officially appointed as interim township manager and secretary for New Garden Township, as well as its right-toknow officer and recycling coordinator, at the New Garden Township Board of Supervisors meeting on Sept. 19.
His most significant role in his short tenure at the township, however, was his recommendation that the township undergo a forensic audit of its financial records.
Defined, a forensic audit is an examination and evaluation of a firm’s or individual’s financial information for use as evidence in the court of law, and can be conducted in order to prosecute a party for fraud, embezzlement or other financial claims.
The timing of the township’s decision to pursue a forensic audit is in clear step
with the recent resignation of former township manager Ramsey Reiner, who left the township in late August for reasons that are not being made available to the public.
At the board’s Sept. 6 meeting, the township issued a joint statement regarding Reiner’s resignation, which was followed by questions to township Solicitor William Christman, who said that Reiner’s departure was considered a “personnel matter” and not considered “public information.” He said that he had asked the supervisors not to comment on the specifics of Reiner’s resignation.
At Christman’s recommendation, the Chester County Press submitted a right-to-know request form to the township on Sept. 15, asking to obtain the contents of the separation agreement between the township and Reiner, and is currently awaiting a response.
Board Chairman Steve Allaband said that the township’s decision to pursue a forensic audit of the township’s financial records does not have any connec-
tion to Reiner or her recent resignation.
“The reason for this is very clearly for transparency,” Allaband told the audience at the Township Building. “We don’t suspect there’s anything wrong. We just want to be able to assure the public that it is okay. We will probably be talking more about that at our next meeting.
“[John Granger] feels that it probably should be done and should have been done in prior years as standard operating procedure, and [is also based on] some of the recommendations made by the township’s Finance Committee to look at different areas. An audit is basically just a confirmation that the transactions are okay, but they don’t look at everything, as I think we have learned from our neighbors to the east of us.” Allaband was referring to the forensic audit conducted by Kennett Township in the wake of what became a $3.2 million embezzlement of township funds by former township manager Lisa Moore, who was sentenced to a state correctional facility on Oct. 4, 2021 for the crime of theft by deception, as well as dealing in unlawful proceeds, forgery, tampering with public records and access device fraud.
To contact Staff Writer Richard L. Gaw, email rgaw@chestercounty.com.
Courtesy photo
The two Kennett Consolidated School District logos compared: On the left is the present block Kennett logo that goes back decades. The logo on the right has appeared on various documents and T-shirts recently.
bers, community partners and alumni. We look forward to finalizing a brand
style guide for official approval by the board this fall.”
Azar explained that ChristianaCare plans to take a phased approach to development at the campus, and ChristianaCare’s intent is to include emergency services in the first phase. Plans are in development now—and they continue to be informed by what he and other ChristianaCare leaders are hearing from the community. He said that those plans will likely be finalized and shared with the community sometime later this fall.
Building on Success
ChristianaCare opened a freestanding emergency department in Middletown, Del. in 2013, and Azar said that lessons from the success of that facility have been invaluable in planning for West Grove.
Azar said, “Middletown is a fantastic facility that is really beloved by the Middletown community. It’s a great model, and there are many learnings from that model that are informing our planning for West Grove. However, the West Grove Campus will be unique, and we are using all of the good information we’ve heard over the past several months to create a care model and structure that will best meet this community’s needs.”
Azar was joined by Chris
is so good to have people listen to you and talk about making things better. It has always been good to work with the Borough.”
There was no other public comment. Borough solicitor Stacey Fuller explained that changes as identified would be made. Council approved a motion to adopt the plan subject to the amendments identified by Dix and the plan will be distributed. The final hearing of the plan will be held on Oct. 3.
Council had a scheduled visitor, Bo Wright, speak on zoning and place making. Wright is the former executive director of Historic Kennett Square. He identified zoning as a key element in creating a great place.
In other business, Council took nominations for a new vice president. Higgins served as the council vice president until the time of her resignation from council. Council member Peggy Ann Russell nominated Robert Ketcham for the position, and council approved the appointment.
Council approved the fol-
Coletti, M.D., MHCDS, FACEP, FACP, clinical effectiveness officer and vice chair of Emergency Medicine, who talked about the kinds of care ChristianaCare is able to provide at the Middletown Emergency Department and how that might translate to what’s being considered for the West Grove Campus.
“As an emergency medicine team working remotely from our main hospitals, we’re really focused on meeting the needs of our patients, whatever they might be. Our team is incredibly skilled at that, and we’re able to address a wide variety of needs right in the Emergency Department,” Coletti said. He cited care for broken bones, heart attack and stroke as some of the capabilities that are available in an emergency care setting.
Timing Still Difficult to Predict
“When Jennersville Hospital closed, it was a gut-punch to this community,” Rep. Lawrence said. “I, as much as anyone, would like the new facility opened tomorrow to restore needed services to our area. But it’s even more important that it be done right, because this community deserves the highest quality of care.”
“You’re absolutely right,” Azar said. “We’re committed to opening the West
lowing motions:
• The hiring of Daniel Tucker as a part-time officer with the Oxford Police Department.
• The 2023 minimum municipal obligation for the non-uniformed employee pension plan in the amount of $48,272.91.
• The 2023 minimum municipal obligation for the police pension plan in the amount of $132,823.69.
• A resolution to submit a grant application to the Strategic management Planning Program (STMP) of the PA Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED).
• The Extension request which will extend through Dec. 17 for Damico & Sons preliminary/final land development plan.
• The Sycamore Crossing Escrow Release in the amounts of Phase 5A, Request No.3 - $39,437.89; Phase 5B, Request No. 3 - $240,249.19; and Phase 3, Request No. 4 - $132,312.13. Additionally, Russell congratulated Police Chief Sam Iacono on his fourth anniversary with the Borough of Oxford.
Chester County Press
Local News
Grove Campus as quickly as we can. At the same time, we’re going to take the time to do this right so that you have a facility that is excellent—and that you can be proud of in this community.”
While Azar said it’s too early to know when services will open at the West Grove Campus, it’s unlikely that it will be within the next 12 months.
Azar provided some insight into the current state of the facility, based on ChristianaCare’s assessments and inventory following the acquisition. While it does contain some usable equipment, including hospital beds and some imaging and diagnostic equipment, other aspects of the facility are going to be “starting from scratch.” He said that the building currently contains no information technology infrastructure, and the laboratory is completely empty of equipment.
“I’m highlighting these as just a few examples to give you some insight into the complexity of the work ahead,” Azar said. “As you know, supply chain issues are impacting every industry right now, and it’s too early to know whether it will create significant delays or none at all.”
Listening to the Community Azar said that ChristianaCare is intent on listening to community members and learning from them what the needs are so that ChristianaCare can be the best possible partner. Following the brief presentation, he asked the audience to share their own concerns or recommendations.
Audience members voiced their desire for the
project to move swiftly, without sacrificing quality for speed. Several participants cited the need for behavioral health and addiction treatment services in the community, and the ChristianaCare leaders acknowledged that these are on the list of priorities for this campus, although likely not in phase one.
Several members of the audience spoke as business owners about challenges related to work-
ers’ compensation care, which was a topic that the ChristianaCare representatives said they hadn’t heard in previous discussions, and they’d take that information back for further discussion.
Audience members also cited the aging community and the need for services that support older adults.
“Thank you all for coming tonight and sharing your time and your insights with us,” Azar said. “With each of these conversations, we
learn more about how we can best be expert, caring partners to our neighbors in southern Chester County.”
“It’s been a pleasure to work with the ChristianaCare team on this project,” Lawrence added. “ChristianaCare’s outstanding reputation for compassionate, high-quality medical care speaks for itself, and the reimagined facility in West Grove will serve our community for decades to come.”
On Wednesday, Sept. 14, ChristianaCare shared new details about the planning process for the campus with Chester County business leaders.
Courtesy photos
Plans for the former Jennersville Hospital site are in development now. Douglas P. Azar, ChristianaCare senior vice president, said that those plans will likely be finalized and shared with the community sometime later this fall.
In the Sept. 14 edition of the Chester County Press, our editorial incorrectly stated that Barry Fragale co-owns the Fragale Brothers Barber Shop with his brother-in-law. In fact, Fragale co-owns the business with his brother, Michael.
Nick needs a heart...
Continued from Page 1A
The smiling man in the photograph needs a new heart.
Madrigale was born with Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM), a cardiovascular disease that is characterized by an abnormally thick heart muscle that limits the amount of blood to the heart and creates complications in getting oxygen-rich blood to the rest of the body.
As a result, those with HCM can experience a lack of energy, a fast heartbeat and severe chest pain.
Often called “The Hidden Disease,” HCM affects one in every 500 people but only 200,000 people in the U.S. are properly diagnosed every year, meaning that as many as 85 percent of those with HCM remain unaware of their condition.
Thankfully, Madrigale was first diagnosed with HCM when he was five years old, following three incidents when his heart stopped and he required CPR and chest compressions to keep him alive. He was placed on several heart medications, and when he was eight years old, he was fitted for his first pacemaker/defibrillator, which was placed in his stomach because he was not old enough to have it in his chest.
The condition, however, required the young Madrigale to limit his outdoor play at home and at school, which meant no contact sports like hockey and football. Limited in what he could do, he found
his love for writing and music.
‘Having to deal with it for so long, it became normal’
“I had to remain inside during school recess,” Madrigale recalled. “A lot of the time, my teachers would let me select a friend who would stay inside the classroom with me. No one wanted me to do much of anything because everything seemed like such a big risk.
“Having to deal with it for so long, however, it became normal, and luckily I had a lot of good friends around me who understood that and accepted me.”
After graduating from Downingtown West High School in 2009, Madrigale went into sales, first for a large department store, then in the claims department for an insurance firm, later at D’Ambrosio Chevrolet in Oxford and most recently at Ephrata Bank in Lancaster County. In May of 2021, he was diagnosed with pneumonia, and while in the emergency room, the medics attending to him measured his heart’s blood flow – or ejection fraction (EF).
In a normal heart, an ejection fraction is measured between 50 and 70 percent, and any percentage under 40 is considered dangerous. Madrigale’s EF numbers were at 18 percent, and he was subsequently diagnosed with chronic heart failure and remained in the hospital for the next nine days.
Over the next year, despite being prescribed
several medications, receiving a new cardiac catheter and going back to work at the bank, Madrigale’s heart failure had progressed. He spent an additional seven days in the hospital, where he was given a peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) that rushed blood through a vein in his arm to his heart. When he returned home, he was given an IV for Milrinone and a pump.
Soon, Madrigale was referred from The Heart Group at Lancaster General Hospital to the Penn Heart Transplant Program in Philadelphia. Located at the University of Pennsylvania, the center is one of the top ten heart transplant programs in the nation and one of the five largest heart transplant centers in the mid-Atlantic region. Since its founding in 1987, Penn Heart has performed nearly 1,500 transplants, more than all other centers in the region combined.
In addition to the realities of needing a heart transplant, Madrigale is faced with the untold financial burdens of paying for his continued treatment. While his short-term disability pays 60 percent of his salary, it ends at the end of September, when he will be faced with paying 100 percent of his medical bills out-of-pocket, as well as co-pays and uncovered and unplanned costs associated with his treatment.
$17,000 from private and business contributions, so far
After the latest round of tests and evaluations, Madrigale was released
from Penn Heart on Sept.
18 and while he recovers back at his home in Atglen, his physicians will be discussing his case over the next few weeks that will be followed by another evaluation by a committee to ultimately decide the timeline for the date of his heart transplant.
Currently, Madrigale is listed as a Status 4 heart transplant recipient, a level designated for a heart patient who is on a life-preserving device. If he maintains his health, Madrigale could receive his transplant sometime in the next six months to a year.
In the event his health deteriorates, his status will be upgraded and the date of his transplant moved up.
To help defray his mounting medical costs, Madrigale recently collaborated with Danielle and Carolyn Hrynkow to establish a GoFundMe page that has to date attracted 119 donations that has raised more than $17,000 toward a $50,000 goal, which included a Beef & Beer benefit held a few weekends ago that raised $7,000 in private and business contributions.
On Sept. 24, a Casino Night fundraiser will be held at a private home in Morton, Pa.
“Nick and Danielle are the most resilient young people I have ever seen,” said Karen Brown, Danielle’s aunt. “They love their kids. They take care of their kids, and they keep moving forward. Nick has become an inspiration for me. He never gives up hope. He never plays the victim but instead, he is an optimist, and he tackles hurdles as they come.
“That is what inspires all of us -- his family and his friends. None of us can imagine what they are going through, but he and Danielle try to keep their life with their children as normal as possible.
“It is family, it is community, it is friends,” Brown added. “When we think about our world, they are the most important people around us. There are no instantaneous answers, but they are who we need to go forward in this world.”
Several years ago, Madrigale recorded a song called “Better Way – Nick Nemesis,” that includes the words, “Gotta be a better way.” It’s become a family slogan for tough times. “In the end, it doesn’t make you feel any better about the situation to say,
daughters.
‘Poor me,’” Madrigale said. “We have four children, and I owe it to them to be able to provide them with everything I possibly can.
“This is a step right now, not an ending. Danielle and I are going to keep going. Life may be different right now, but as long as we keep focused on the end result, we’ll get through this. That’s how I have lived my life. That’s how I will continue to live my life.”
To learn more about Nick Madrigale and to make a contribution to help defray his medical costs, visit “The journey for a new heart for Nick Madrigale” on gofundme.com.
To contact Staff Writer Richard L. Gaw, email rgaw@chestercounty.com.
Courtesy photo
Nick Madrigale at home with his
Congress
Legacies of public service
When Aline Frank served on the Kennett School Board, she was a school director’s school director. She was an advocate for public education. She was actively involved in the Kennett school community, and was a voice for parents on matters that came in front of the school board. She attended many different programs and events. As an intelligent and hard-working school board member, as someone who always paid attention to the details, she was perfectly suited to help the school board handle its responsibilities when it came to the school district’s curriculum.
Frank passed away earlier this month.
Another Kennett Square public servant, Kenneth Roberts, passed away just a few days before Frank.
Roberts served on Kennett Square Borough Council for more than two decades—at a time when the borough was experiencing a great transformation. Roberts was the president of borough council when many innovative initiatives were undertaken to help revitalize the town.
Genesis Healthcare’s headquarters, the construction of a parking garage, and the borough’s long-term land lease to the Kennett Area YMCA all played important parts in the revitalization of the town. Roberts was also on council when Kennett Square Borough and Kennett Township partnered to form the Kennett Area Park Authority to over oversee the creation of the Anson B. Nixon Park.
On September 10, Arthur Rieck passed away. He served as a supervisor in East Nottingham Township. Frank, Roberts, and Rieck all worked hard to make their community a better place to live and work. They leave behind legacies of public service that should be appreciated—and emulated—by others.
Autumnal Transparency
By Marie-Louise Meyers
Autumn comes in mellifluous tongues, disguised among the spoils of the summer season, a last testament to unreasoned heat; wedged between the vibrant chords of Spring and the first inkling of winter’s discordant cross, marigolds touched with
frost.
Perfection is born in the breathtaking air, shattering the sky’s crystal chandelier.
Liquid gold splashed everywhere on fields and meadows, on the tremor of wings soaring in sunlit skies.
We are born anew with Gypsy blood gushing forth, ford rippling streams with
effervescent broth, with peace etched on every mountain peak, valleys filled with gold lamé to greet our restless feet.
Trembling trees unload their heaven-scented apples to satisfy our unquenchable taste and hunger.
Winnowing wind soothes our nightly slumber while storied maples
bring a tinge of crimson glory to the plaintive strains under a Harvest Moon glow.
Soon nothing matters but the bountiful beauty instilled in the corridors of radiant light, our hearts filled as we fade into a brilliant transparency.
Pennsylvania’s state prison staffing crisis shows no sign of ending
By John Eckenrode
Pennsylvanians are getting back to work. The economy is on the rebound. Pennsylvania’s unemployment rate is now lower than its pre-pandemic level. That’s great news, but not for everyone, including those who work some of the most dangerous jobs in the commonwealth. Right now, the commonwealth’s prison system continues to see its vacancies skyrocket with
Dave Hirst rides to raise money to fight Multiple Sclerosis
By Betsy Brewer Brantner Contributing Writer
Nothing motivates a parent more than their child. That is what has motivated Dave Hirst for the past 22 years.
Hirst has “Biked to the Bay” for 75 miles to raise money in the fight against Multiple Sclerosis (MS). He also did the “MS: City to Shore Ride” that was another 75 miles. Through the years, his bike riding has raised thousands of dollars to fight MS. He rides for his daughter, Lee Mayer, who has valiantly fought MS for more than 15 years.
Hirst spoke lovingly of his daughter and her struggle with MS, saying, “She was always a very active child. She did gymnastics and played field hockey. MS symptoms started to appear for her when her oldest son was born. Like most people, we know she had it long before she was diagnosed.”
Hirst explained, “MS is a debilitating disease that to date has no cure and limited relief for those afflicted. With your support, I hope that on-going research can offer hope for my daughter Lee, and many others who suffer from MS.” MS is a difficult disease to diagnose. The National MS Society said, “no single test can diagnose MS.” The medical history, a neurologic exam and lab tests help health care providers rule out other diseases and confirm the MS diagnosis. It is not unusual to hear that people with MS were misdiagnosed. Sometimes it takes years to get a correct diagnosis because there is no single diagnostic test to establish a definite MS diagnosis. A number of other diseases or health issues can mimic MS. These include the following:
• Epstein-Barr Virus
• Lyme • Stroke
• Vision Problems
• Lupus
• Parkinson’s
• Bladder issues
• Fatigue
According to Hirst, “Lee uses a walker and needs assistance. She also uses a scooter. Her symptoms involve tremors. She needs assistance with eating. My daughter has tried every treatment there is, including changing her diet, medical treatments, medications, and we even visited ‘the bee sting lady.’ As a family, we all support her.”
Hirst explained that she eats meals at a different family member’s house through the week. They all share and they all care, which is the best thing you can do for someone with MS. According to doctors and the National MS Society, support is very important.
Hirst explained his method of raising money this year called for some changes.
“In early July,” he said, “I tangled with a car while riding my bike. My wife, Lynn and I decided that maybe an 84-year-old should not be doing a lot of road biking. As a result of that, I am pledging to ride the 75-mile Bike to The Bay ten times over on trails and in my community for a total of 750 miles in the next few months, leading up to the ride of Oct. 8.”
Hirst is asking everyone who has generously supported him in the past, to continue to do so this year.
“So far, I’ve raised $5,500 for this year. Last year, it was just short of that,” he explained.
He has been raising money every way he can, not just for his daughter, but for all people that suffer from MS. And through his life, he has known many people who have battled MS. He plays Pickle Ball with a group and wanted to give a big thank you to that group for their contribution.
When he is not rais-
ing money for MS, Hirst coaches and judges in the gymnastic field. He started doing gymnastics at age 11, and according to his students still does a flip or two at age 84, which delights his 12 grandchildren. Those grandchildren, and Lee’s sisters, have also done rides with him.
Hirst has committed to doing 750 miles and has completed 667 miles so far. He will probably do even more. A humble man, but a staunch advocate in the fight against MS, he rides for many that cannot ride.
“I play Pickle Ball with a 60-year old lady that has MS,” he said. “Her husband changed jobs, and a longtime doctor recently retired.
Long story short, those changes have interrupted her treatment which was working for her.”
Hirst himself has educated himself in all-things MS, which is the greatest gift you can give to someone with MS. Being understood and believed is such a comfort to those stricken with MS.
“As a parent I pray every day they find a cure,” he said. “Where did it come from? Her one son is searching for that as well. He has a degree in biochemistry. My daughter has had too many falls. Her family does everything they can. It has brought my family closer.”
Hirst is thankful to his neighbors, to people he has never met, and to former students who have supported him and his family.
“So many people I don’t even know have given me donations. Two of my former students have been very generous. It means more than they will ever know,” he said.
For anyone wanting to donate to this determined dad, you can donate online. Go to BIKEMS.ORG and click donate on the far right side of the page. For participant, put in “DAVE HIRST.”
no sign of slowing, creating a dangerous atmosphere for prison employees and inmates.
According to the Department of Corrections, there were nearly 1,000 violent incidents already this year, a staggering 33 percent increase from a year ago. The number of staff assaulted is up 26 percent, and inmate fights have increased 42 percent.
On Aug. 31 at 6:19 p.m., an inmate began assaulting a lone corrections officer at SCI-Forest. A second officer responded to help, but the inmate pulled a 7-inch piece of metal with a homemade handle and began stabbing both officers before a third arrived at the scene to end the vicious assault. Both officers were sent to the emergency room for their stab wounds. We desperately need more backup to stop the increased violence. Just how bad is the staffing deficit in our state prisons? It’s a full-blown crisis. That’s not spin; the department’s own numbers tell the story.
In June, Pennsylvania’s state prison system had 757 vacancies for corrections officers, the highest in at least a generation. To put that into perspective, just prior to the pandemic, there were only 94 vacancies in June 2019. In nearly a quarter century of serving as an officer, I’ve never seen anything like this.
The reasons for the overwhelming vacancies are clear.
Pennsylvania is making it more difficult to hire new officers, with a bureaucratic approach that isn’t competitive with other states and takes too long to hire candidates. Right now, when a person attends a job fair or applies for a job in our state prisons, the wait time to hear back takes up to four months. People attending job fairs
His name will come up and you can click on donate. You will be prompted from there. Please note individuals or companies can donate.
Hirst also explained, “A new program allows me to scan checks directly to the National MS Society, avoiding repeated emails to you for additional contributions. Checks can be made out to the National MS Society.
If anyone has further questions on donating, please contact Dave at 302-5883023. He will probably be out riding his bike so please leave a message.
Author’s note: I have had MS for 50 years and am so grateful to Dave Hirst and others like him that support all of us that have this disease. On behalf of all of those with MS, I’d like to ask you to double your support to him if possible and
aren’t there for a cup of coffee. They want a job – now. Pennsylvania used to allow prisons to identify and hire from local communities. That process moved quickly. The commonwealth’s current approach to have hirings handled regionally has only further bogged down the process. It’s also time to allow out-of-state residents to apply for these jobs. For example, SCI-Green County is located near the West Virginia border and should be permitted to recruit across state lines to fill vacancies.
Several other state prisons are near state borders as well, including Albion, Mercer, Waymart, Phoenix, Chester, Somerset, Fayette and Laurel Highlands.
We’re also being outmaneuvered by other states for job candidates. At those same job fairs, out-of-state corrections departments are providing candidates the ability to apply for jobs on the spot with signing bonuses, such as Delaware ($5,000) and Maryland ($3,000). Virginia is giving new prison employees $6,000 just to sign on.
Even when we do hire, the washout rate for new officers leaving is over 30 percent, an extremely high number historically. That’s
make this a memorable year for him, his daughter and his entire family. Honestly,
happening because officers are being forced into multiple mandatory overtime shifts, sometimes as many as three in a row. Danger and exhaustion aside, it has taken a toll on their marriages and home life. As a result, new officers aren’t staying on the job. This simply cannot continue. The pandemic, and its after-effects, have created a staffing crisis that demands the commonwealth’s attention. Most people don’t see it because they aren’t inside. But for those officers and other prison employees who work in Pennsylvania state prisons, every day is a struggle without the numbers they need to keep the peace and return home safely to their loved ones.
We know this because the statistics are clear: Our state prisons have become remarkably more dangerous for our officers. It’s time for Pennsylvania’s elected leadership to come together and address this unprecedented staffing problem because it isn’t showing any sign of ending. Lives are on the line. John Eckenrode is the president of the Pennsylvania State Corrections Officers Association. For more information, see: pscoa.org.
people like Dave Hirst keep all of us MS’ers moving. Thanks, Dave.
Courtesy photo John Eckenrode
Kohler Crushed Stone Showers By Home Smart
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Stars, 374 reviews
Benefit concert for Kennett Library & Resource Center thrills near-capacity crowd
Legend at work: Patti LaBelle rocks Longwood
By Richard L. Gaw Staff Writer
It was one part pop, one part harmony, one part soul, one part ballad, one part gospel and one part testimony, and at the end of Patti LaBelle’s electrifying set at Longwood Gardens on Sept. 13, the near-capacity crowd rose to its collective feet, certain that it was all parts legend. Throughout her 90-minute concert, LaBelle, joined by the harmonious voices of four back-up singers and a pitch-perfect 16-piece orchestra, seemed to defy her 78 years through the power she gave to every selection in her 15-song set. Flashing her radiant smile as she entered the stage, LaBelle kicked off the show with her hit, “New Attitude” and followed it with “I Keep Forgetting,” a duet she performed with Michael McDonald that was first released in 1982.
LaBelle shared her spotlight with trumpeter Jeff Bradshaw – who delivered a blistering solo that brought the audience to its feet –and singer John Williams, with whom she sang “On My Own,” another duo she recorded with McDonald in 1986.
Throughout her performance, LaBelle playfully threw her voice from sweet ballad to street-smart growl, and at several points, kicked off her shoes to dance barefoot on the stage. Between songs, she thanked the audience for their support over her 60-year recording career, and wrapped up the show with her chart-topping hit, “Lady Marmalade.”
LaBelle’s performance, produced by Kennett Square Mayor Matt Fetick in partnership with Longwood Gardens CEO Paul Redman and Longwood Gardens staff, served as a fundraiser for the new Kennett Library &
Resource Center. Through private and corporate donations, grants and contributions from neighboring municipalities, the library’s Imagine Campaign has raised nearly $16 million towards its $21.7 million goal.
“This was a great community event that gave a lot of exposure to the Kennett Library, and while we still have $6 million to raise, this concert will go a long way to helping us reach that goal,” said Jeff Yetter, president of
the Kennett Library Board of Trustees, after the concert. “Between Matt Fetick and Paul Redman, our gratitude doesn’t even begin to express what they have done for us. Longwood Gardens did not make one dollar for this concert, and they have also contributed $250,000 to this campaign.
“That is what I call community support.”
To contact Staff Writer Richard L. Gaw, email rgaw@chestercounty.com.
Six standout athletes will be honored during Oct. 10 ceremony
The Oxford Sports Wall of Fame returns
Following a two-year hiatus prompted by the pandemic, the Oxford Area High School Sports Wall of Fame induction ceremony will return on Oct. 10. The event will take place at the high school with six outstanding sports athletes to be honored. The Festivities will commence at 6:30 p.m. in the high school cafeteria to give the public time to meet and greet these men and women. Light refreshments will be served. At 7 p.m., the awards ceremony will take place in the auditorium where the inductees will receive their awards, and afterwards, give appropriate remarks. Among the candidates receiving the honors this year will be Robert “Puff” Moore (class of 1949), Bill Hostetter (1976), John Rozich (1995),
Rebecca Ruggear (2009), Laura Beimfohr (2010), and Ryan Hubley (2015).
Bill Hostetter was a threeyear letterman in football, serving as the team captain in his senior year. Bill was a four-year member of the wrestling team, and he served as the team captain in both his junior and senior years while helping to guide the team to the Southern Chester County Championships in 1974 and 1976. His 54-10 wrestling record placed him second in career wins as of 1976. Hostetter received the Outstanding Wrestler Award in the Sectional tournament in his senior year. Laura Beimfohr was a champion pole vaulter during her high school days. Some of her accomplishments include placing seventh in the AAU Junior Olympic
Games with an 11’6” vault and placing second at the PIAA District 1 Outdoor Championship with a school record 11’6” vault and earning the Team MVP. She is the current outdoor record holder at this height and the current indoor school record holder at 10’6”. Following high school, Beimfohr went to East Stroudsburg University where she was a five-time NCAA Provisional Qualifier. She set school and meet indoor records at 11’10” that are still current at the DeSchriver Invitational. She was twice named the ESU Warriors Athlete of the Week and, in 2014, was a PSAC Scholar Athlete. Robert “Puff” Moore, as his nickname indicates, was small in stature but large in his commitment to participating in sports at Oxford.
He was a four-year member of the soccer team which, in his senior year, won the Southern Chester County League, the first league championship for Oxford in twelve years. He earned letters in basketball three times and in baseball for all four years in high school. He was a member of the Rising Sun American Legion Baseball team in 1947,
which won its league championship and moved forward before losing in the state championship. Following a four-year commitment to the U.S. Coast Guard, “Puff” returned to Oxford and played local baseball and softball for many years. He then became an avid golfer. He and his son Mark won a Maryland State Father and Son Championship. Sadly,
“Puff” Moore passed away in 2010. He will be represented by his family at the award ceremony.
Sports biographies of the remaining members of this year’s inductees will be published in next week’s edition of the Chester County Press. The public is invited to attend this very popular event. There is no charge for admission.
Robert “Puff” Moore Bill Hostetter Laura Beimfohr
Photos by Richard L. Gaw
Performing artist Patti LaBelle delivered a 15-song, 90-minute concert before a near-capacity crowd at Longwood Gardens on Sept. 13.
Jazz trumpeter Jeff Bradshaw, center, invited his mother Carrie and his nephew K. Nathan Stepney, Jr. to the concert, and then delivered a powerful solo midway through the concert.
Lauri Brockson and Laura Berkeihiser of Avondale secured front-row tickets to the show.
LaBelle’s performance brought many in the crowd to their feet.
GOLDIE R. SMITH
Goldie R. Smith passed away at the age of 100 on Sept. 15, 2022 at Newport Meadows Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Christiana, Pa.
She was a resident of West Grove.
She was the wife of the late William G. Smith, with whom she shared 74 years of marriage.
Born in Cream, Pa., she was the daughter of the late Clarence Samuel and Bertha Iona Cochran Gray.
She attended the First Baptist Church of Oxford.
Goldie enjoyed reading, gardening and cats.
She is survived by her two children, Randy W. Smith (Carmella) and Faye A. Hipkins (Douglas), all of West Grove; two grandchildren, Douglas Allen Hipkins, Jr. and Renee Lynn Smith; three great-grandchildren, Kiersten Hutchinson, Maryn Hipkins and Rachel Hipkins.
She was preceded in death by a granddaughter, Katie Hipkins; two brothers, Bernard Gray and Clifford Gray; and one sister, Pauline Adams.
A graveside service was held on Sept. 20 at Oxford Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory may be made to Forgotten Cats, Inc., 4023 Kennett Pike, Suite 422, Greenville, Del. 198074.
Arrangements are being handled by the Edward L. Collins, Jr. Funeral Home, Inc. in Oxford. Online condolences may be made at www.elcollinsfuneralhome.com.
Alleluia
Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.
For more information or to place an ad, contact Brenda Butt at 610-869-5553 ext. 10
SHIRLEY ANN KILBY
Shirley Ann Kilby, of Nottingham, passed away on Sept. 11, 2022 at home. She was 61. She was the wife of Robert Keith Kilby, with whom she shared 28 years of marriage. Born in West Grove, she was the daughter of Charles Mabe, Sr. of Nottingham and the late Rose Phillips Mabe.
She was employed with Giorgio Mushroom Company in Toughkenamon for 20 years.
Shirley loved spending time with her grandchildren more than anything in the world. She enjoyed shopping, going to the beach and gardening.
In addition to her husband and father, Shirley is survived by her two sons, Jason Kilby (Alyssa) of Oxford and Tyler Kilby (Jennifer) of Port Deposit; three grandchildren, Gage Poorman, Brielle and Camryn Kilby; and four brothers, Charles Mabe Jr., Albert Mabe, Daniel Mabe and Larry Mabe.
She was preceded in death by one brother, James Mabe.
A memorial service was held on Sept. 17 at the Edward L. Collins, Jr. Funeral Home in Oxford.
Interment will be private.
Arrangements are being handled by the Edward L. Collins, Jr. Funeral Home, Inc. in Oxford. Online condolences may be made at www.elcollinsfuneralhome.com.
MARGARET SUSAN THOMAS
Margaret Susan (Johnson) Thomas, of West Grove, passed away on Sept. 3, 2022 while surrounded by her family at her home. She was 72. She was the wife of the late Rev. Canon David P. Thomas, who died in 2009 and with whom she shared 40 years of marriage.
Born in Britton, S.D., she was the daughter of the late Howard Johnson and the late Nancy K. Johnson.
Susan graduated from Millersville University and earned her masters of science in education from Wilkes University in August of 2000. She was an English teacher at Unionville High School for many years, retiring in 2015.
She was a longtime member of the Episcopal Church of the Advent where her husband David was rector until his passing. She enjoyed cooking, entertaining, reading, movies, and time with family and friends. She loved living at Ovations in West Grove and was very involved with various committees.
Survivors include two daughters, Katherine Thomas and her husband Carlos Morales of Pinellas Park, Fla. and Sarah Stephenson and her husband Ryan of Middletown, Pa.; three granddaughters, Libby, Riley, and Lucy; one brother, James Johnson and his wife Sheri; a cousin Katie Cook; a niece Nikkee Johnson and nephew Kelly Johnson; her companion William “Bill” R. Friebel; her beloved golden doodle Oliver, and all her friends at Ovations and Church of the Advent who were loved like family.
In addition to her husband David, she was predeceased by sisters-in-law Suzanne Thomas and Linda Thomas.
A memorial service celebrating Susan’s life was held on Sept. 10 at the Episcopal Church of the Advent in Kennett Square. Interment will be in the adjoining Church Memorial Garden. Contributions in her memory may be made to the Episcopal Church of the Advent for the Memorial Garden Perpetual Care Fund.
Arrangements are being handled by Matthew Grieco of Grieco Funeral Home & Crematory, Inc. (484-734-8100).
To view her online tribute, please visit www.griecofunerals.com.
CARRIE JANE RISSER
Carrie Jane Risser, 75, went home to be with the Lord on Sept. 14, 2022. She fought a courageous fight against cancer. She spent her last days lovingly cared for by her family.
She was born in West Grove to the late Thomas and Emma Brewer of Oxford.
Carrie worked as a home health aide for many years. She took her job very seriously and loved caring for others. She was well-respected as an aide and loved the hundreds of patients she became friends with.
Carrie had lived at Luther House in West Grove for one year where she made many wonderful friends who will miss her bright smile and laughter. She also loved taking care of the Luther House cat, Baby. She was loved by many for her sense of humor and deep compassion for all. She never ended a phone conversation without saying, “I love you very much.”
CATHERINE LOUISE QUAIL
Catherine Louise Quail, 68, of Newark, Del., passed away on Sept. 16, 2022 at Christiana Hospital.
She was the wife of the late Richard Leroy Quail.
Born in West Chester, she was the daughter of the late Charles Richard and Lula Carter Jackson.
Catherine loved crocheting, coloring, puzzles, cooking and gardening. She enjoyed spending time with her family and loved her grandchildren.
She was a nanny to many children throughout her life.
She is survived by two sons, Richard Jackson of Nottingham and Steven Williams of Fla.; two daughters, Ronnetta Jackson of Coatesville and Marla Jackson; three grandchildren, Kaily, Rebecca and Jamie Jackson; two great-grandchildren; and five brothers, Charles Jackson, Robert Jackson, Gary Jackson, Edward Jackson and Clarence Jackson.
She was preceded in death by a son, Robert L. Jackson; a daughter-in-law, Christina Jackson; two brothers, Alfred Jackson and John Jackson; and two sisters, Cynthia Jackson and Evelyn Twyman.
Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, Sept. 23 at the Edward L. Collins, Jr. Funeral Home, Inc. 86 Pine St. in Oxford, where friends and family may visit from 10 to 11 a.m.
Interment will be private.
In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the American Kidney Foundation, www.kidneyfund.org.
Arrangements are being handled by the Edward L. Collins, Jr. Funeral Home, Inc. in Oxford. Online condolences may be made at www.elcollinsfuneralhome.com.
She is survived by two children, daughter April McCabe (Alan), granddaughter, Summer, and a son, Mike Brabson (Ashley) and four grandchildren, Michael, Emma, Macie and Mylee. She was predeceased by her son Timothy Herr.
She loved her family dearly and enjoyed spending time with them, creating wonderful holiday dinners, crocheting, fishing and gardening. She was known for her cooking, and will be sadly missed by many.
In addition to her children, she is survived by her sister, Patricia Purcell (Ed) of Nottingham; a sister, Betsy Brantner of Oxford; a brother, Thomas Brewer (Jan) of Argyle, Wisc.; and a foster brother William Roberts.
She is also survived by many cousins, nieces, nephews, and a great nephew. All of them dearly loved her.
The family would like to thank Willow Tree Hospice for the love and kindness they gave to Carrie and her family.
Services will be private.
HOWARD E. HAMM
Howard E. Hamm, 85, of Oxford, passed away at home on Sept. 18, 2022. He was the husband of the late Ella Rose Dunn Hamm, with whom he shared 62 years of marriage.
Born in Creston, Ashe County, N.C., he was the son of the late Walter and Hazel Arnold Ham.
Howard retired as a mushroom grower in Nottingham, and was also employed with Coldiron Construction in Oxford as a dry-waller.
He enjoyed antique cars, gardening and spending time with his grandchildren.
He is survived by his one son, Dennis Tester of Mt. City, Tenn.; six grandchildren, Nickie, Joey, Johnny, Dustin, Brandy and Candace; twelve great-grandchildren; three brothers, Larry Ham, Kenny Ham and Bobby Ham all of N.C.; two sisters, Lois Riley and Mary Brackins both of N.C.; and several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by one son, Daniel Howard Hamm; two daughters, Karen L. Morrison and Kimberly A. Farmer; and one brother, Darrel Ham.
Funeral services will be held 2 p.m. on Thursday, Sept. 22 at the Edward L. Collins, Jr. Funeral Home, Inc., 86 Pine St. in Oxford, where friends and family may visit from 1 to 2 p.m.
Interment will be in Oxford Cemetery.
Arrangements are being handled by the Edward L. Collins, Jr. Funeral Home, Inc. in Oxford. Online condolences may be made at www.elcollinsfuneralhome.com.
JOSEPH P. FISHER
Joseph P. Fisher, of Oxford, passed away unexpectedly on Sept. 9, 2022. He was 83.
Joseph was born in West Grove on April 15, 1939 to the late Joseph C. and Florence Taylor Fisher.
He was a lifelong resident of Oxford, graduating from Oxford Area High School in 1957. In school, he was a member of the Future Farmers of America. After graduation, Joseph worked as a welder, prior to taking over the family dairy farm business. He continued to run the business for 40 years.
In 1965, Joseph married Gayle Cummings, his high school sweetheart and love of his life, and they celebrated their 57th wedding anniversary this past May.
When he retired from farming, Joseph found great pleasure in the relationships he formed while working for Noble Road Milking Equipment Company until his death.
Joseph loved spending time with his family, cutting up with friends (and everyone was a friend), watching the Phillies and driving around in his prized 1957 Chevy. He was a beloved son, husband, father, brother, uncle and friend, but his most cherished title was that of #1 Pop Pop, which he had the hat to prove. He was often described as quite the character, and he earned that title as well. If you were lucky enough to know Joe Fisher, then you know how much he will be missed.
In addition to his wife, he is survived by one daughter, Vicki Fisher Sherman (Steven) of West Chester; one daughter-in-law, Christine Fisher, of Oxford and
four grandchildren, Joseph and Matthew Fisher of Oxford and Timothy and Kaitlyn Sherman of West Chester.
He is also survived by two foster brothers, David Bristow and Frank Jobeck; foster sister-in-law, Cheryl Russell; brothers-in-law, Richard “Gary” Cummings (Nancy) and Dudley Cummings (Marilyn); sistersin-law, Diane Andrulonis (Ronald) and Kay Kuhns (Barton), as well as many nieces and nephews, with whom he was very close. These included Joseph England (Mary), William England (Kelly), Steven England, Charles England (Judith), Janice Price (James), Thomas Andrulonis (Stacey), Lori Gilbert, Jennifer Cook (Daniel), David Kuhns (Jennifer), Jorja Cummings, Veronica Price (Michael), Robert Cummings, Joan Leardi (Joseph), Melissa Finley (James) and Steven Russell (Valerie).
Joseph was preceded in death by his son, Joseph Randall “Randy” Fisher, as well as two sisters, Constance MacNeal (William) and Barbara England (Floyd); one brother, Howard Fisher (Sandra) and one foster brother, James Russell.
The family would like to thank everyone who has reached out to them in this time of grief.
Please join the family in celebrating his life on Saturday, Oct. 22 at the Oxford United Methodist Church’s Fellowship Hall, 18 Addison St., Oxford, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Arrangements are being handled by the Edward L. Collins, Jr. Funeral Home, Inc. in Oxford.
Online condolences may be made at www.elcollinsfuneralhome.com.
HARRY SINCLAIR MILLS, JR.
Harry ”Skip” Sinclair Mills, Jr., a resident of West Grove, passed away at the Chester County Hospital on Sept. 2, 2022. He was 79. He was the husband of Elizabeth Myers Mills, who passed away in 2022. Born is Darby, Pa., he was the son of the late Harry S. Mills, Sr. and the late Mary Burke Mills.
Harry owned and operated Pleasant Peasants in Unionville. He was a member of the New London Masonic Lodge # 545 in West Grove. He enjoyed woodworking and was a re-enactor for all periods of war.
He is survived by one brother, Stephen J. Mills of Midlothian, Va. and two nephews, Chad W. Mills of Fort Worth, Tex. and Stephen J. Mills, Jr. of Midlothian, Va.
A Memorial service will be held at the New London Masonic Lodge at a later date. Please check the website for updates about the service date and time.
In lieu of flowers, a contribution may be made to the New London Masonic Lodge # 545, c/o Theodore Wallace, Secretary, 106 Reedville Road, Oxford, Pa. 19363.
To view his online tribute and to share a memory with his family, please visit www.kuzoandfoulkfh.com.
ARTHUR RIECK
Arthur Rieck, 80, of Oxford, passed away on Sept. 10, 2022 while at home.
He was the husband of Harleen Carpenter Rieck. Born in Chester, Pa., he was the son of the late Arthur and Mildred Rieck.
He was a veteran of the U.S. Navy. He was employed with Astra Zeneca as an accountant.
He was a former township supervisor for East Nottingham Township.
Arthur enjoyed golfing and walking his dog.
He is survived by his wife; one daughter, Kathy Rivera; three grandchildren, Gregory Rivera, Kirstin O’Keefe and David O’Keefe; and one sister, Delores McCormick.
He was preceded in death by two sisters, Mary Elizabeth Landry and Linda Mitchell.
Services will be private.
Arrangements are being handled by the Edward L. Collins, Jr. Funeral Home, Inc. in Oxford. Online condolences may be made at www.elcollinsfuneralhome.com.
HELEN B. DOWNING
Helen ”Aunt Honey” B. Downing, a resident of Kennett Square who previously lived in New London, passed away on Sept.14, 2022, at Linden Hall in Kennett Square. She was 98. She was the wife of James Downing who passed away in 2003, and with whom she shared 62 years of marriage. Born in New London, she was the daughter of the late James P. Bush and the late Reba Buckalew Bush.
She was a seamstress and worked at the West Grove Knitting Mills for 20 years. She also owned and operated Picture Pump Antiques in New London for over 30 years.
Helen was a member of the New London Presbyterian Church and the West Grove Senior Center.
She enjoyed watching the Phillies on TV, going shopping, and being with her family and friends.
Her family would like to thank the staff at Linden Hall for the excellent care given to her while she was there.
She is survived by many nieces and nephews and greatnieces and great-nephews.
Helen was predeceased by two sisters, Marge Johnson and Betty Ann Bush and four brothers, Paul Bush, John Bush, Frank Bush, Sr. and Charles “Chattie” Bush.
You are invited to visit with Helen’s family and friends from 10 to 11 a.m. on Saturday, Sept. 24 at the New London Presbyterian Church, 1986 Newark Road (Route 896), in New London. Her funeral service will follow at 11 a.m.
Burial will be in the adjoining church cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, a contribution may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, Tenn. 38105.
To view her online tribute and to share a memory with her family, please visit www.kuzoandfoulkfh.com.
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.
on
22 11:30
to 4 p.m. and is located in Room 351 of the Chester County Government Services Center, 601 Westtown Road in West Chester. Further details are available at www.chesco.org/bhjobfair.
According to Tyree Lewis, coordinator of the job fair and director of quality management for Chester
County’s Department of Mental Health/Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities, there are currently more than 200 job openings available through 24 behavioral health employers attending the fair, including Holcomb, Devereux, Resources for Human Development (RHD), Bowling Green
Brandywine, St. Luke’s Penn Foundation, Chester County Human Services, and Community Care Behavioral Health.
“Every one of the employers at this job fair has a variety of job openings, including administrative support services within a behavioral health setting,” Lewis said.
“Building a career in the behavioral health arena truly is rewarding because it provides many opportunities to support others in life-changing ways,” added Lewis. “If you already have behavioral health qualifications and experience, or if you would like to learn more about the real benefits of a career in behavioral health, then I certainly encourage you to attend the job fair. “In addition to finding out what jobs are available, you can talk to the organizations represented there, to find out more about the incredible impact that those in human service and behavioral health jobs make on the health and well-being of our community.”
PUBLIC REAL ESTATE AUCTION
walk-in closet, & bath with shower, corner Jacuzzi® tub & double vanity. Also 3 additional bedrooms w/ double or walk-in closets, full bath, and laundry room. Full basement with exercise equipment, wall mirrors and TV selling with the property. House has 9 ft ceilings on first floor w/crown molding, LP- fired hot air heat, central air and attached 2-car garage. House is equipped with security & fire alarms. Property also has metal sided 24’ x 40’ garage/workshop w/ electric and 12’ x 20’ storage shed. Country property with well and onsite sewer.
Open House Dates; Thursdays Sept. 15, 22 & 29 from 5-7:00 PM And Saturdays. Sept. 17, 24 & Oct. 1 from 1 - 4:00 PM
Terms: Down payment of $ 50,000.00 required day of auction. Settlement on or before Dec. 29, 2022, Transfer taxes to be paid by buyer. Real Estate taxes shall be prorated. Annual taxes +/- $5123.67.
Attention Realtors: 1% Broker Participation being offered to Realtors who preregister with their buyers and who become the successful bidder on day of auction. Must register 48 hours prior to date of auction. Pre-registration forms are available at www.beilercampbellauctions.com.
Auctioneers Notes: Be sure to check out this 3.73-acre Drumore Township country property in Solanco School District. The property has lots of potential as a country estate, pastures/animals, or small produce/fruit farm. The modern house is 1-owner, super clean and movein ready. The 24’ x 40’ building adds options of more garage, workshop,
The job fair is free, registration is encouraged, but walk-ins are welcome. Further details are available by contacting a PA CareerLink business services team representative at 610-280-1036.
Speaker series to focus on building better Kennett community
The next How We Build Matters Speaker Series event at 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, Sept. 22 will equip community members to take action toward building a more inclusive community.
“Kennett Square residents are justifiably proud of the unique community they call home,” said Kennett Collaborative Executive Director Bo Wright. “But growth pressure creates challenges, and we need to proceed thoughtfully to maintain and strengthen the social cohesion that makes Kennett Square unique and make sure it’s a welcoming and inclusive place for everyone.”
torium, and the children’s and adult maker spaces will allow the Library to expand programming for children, teens, adults, and seniors. The roles of libraries have evolved over the years, and on Sept. 22 library staff will be sharing some of their
also recently launched a scholar-in-residence program and has hired Robert Edwards, a Ph.D. candidate in Historic Preservation at Columbia University whose work focuses on the relationship between architecture and race, as the first scholar-in-residence.
The next How We Build Matters Speaker Series event will bring together a diverse panel of young leaders who recently participated in the Kennett Emerging Leadership Fellowship.
Elideth Navarro, Mayra Castillo, and Lee Sausen will engage in an honest and thought-provoking conversation about inclusive community and the importance of feeling welcomed into community discussions about life and spaces in the town.
“We see and hear the frustrations in our community, and it’s hard when people don’t have outlets for coming together to give input, listen, and take action,” Wright said. “That’s why we’re excited to showcase some projects that are addressing exactly these kinds of questions and to give community members opportunities to share ideas, ask questions, and get involved in these initiatives.
“Community engagement has been a huge part of the ongoing success and growth of programs like the KSQ Farmers Market and the new Kennett Library, and it’s absolutely necessary in order for projects like the Red Clay Trail & Park, and the project that South Broad Partnership is proposing for 600 South Broad Street to succeed.”
An interactive “science fair” showcasing these projects will follow the panel discussion. Attendees can learn more about the Red Clay Trail & Park project and about opportunities to volunteer in addition to having a chance to “build their own Red Clay Park” on game boards that will be provided.
“We really want people to give us their input, feedback, and ideas at this early stage of the project,” said Christina Norland, executive director of the Kennett Trails Alliance. “Our vision is for the creek that runs from Anson B. Nixon Park to Kennett High School— and that connects so many places in between—to be transformed into a beautiful, restored public space for people to walk, rest, gather, play and engage with nature. The multiple goals of this project, from stream restoration to community programming, can only happen through community collaboration at every step.”
When the new Kennett Library & Resource Center opens its doors in May 2023, it will welcome all Kennett area residents to enter a world of discovery, learning, and change. The meeting rooms, audi-
new and existing programs that help create a more equitable community.
Through focusing on scholarly research, public experiences, and historical memorialization, Voices Underground seeks to foster racial healing through storytelling. The organization facilitates Juneteenth in Pennsylvania in partnership with the PA Tourism Office, has established an African American Cultural Heritage Center at Lincoln University, and is working on a multiphase collaborative project that will memorialize the nationally significant history of the Underground Railroad in Kennett Square. In partnership with the Mellon Foundation, Voices Underground has
Another exciting project that attendees will be able to learn more about and give feedback on is South Broad Partnership’s proposal to build a mixed-use community center at 600 South Broad Street. South Broad Partnership, a local team of professionals invested in the community, passionate about its flourishing, and committed to equity, historic preservation, and quality construction and beautiful design, has created a plan that will combine mixedprice-point housing with community greenspace and will accommodate a variety of small businesses, a community grocer, a performing arts space, and more.
The goal of this community center is to enrich the town and its residents and to put Kennett Square on the map through this model of sustainable, beautiful, walkable, and equitable development.
“The goal of the evening is to show how these projects really can help our community take steps to create a more equitable commu-
nity,” said Wright.
“Throughout the Speaker Series events over the past year we’ve had experts from around the country talking about the ‘hardware’ of different elements of the built environment,” Wright
added. “With this event on the 22nd, we want to bring these considerations together with the ‘software’—how we make sure that the physical spaces we create are welcoming, inclusive, and accessible to all.”
How We Build Matters:
Let’s Build an Inclusive Community event will take place at Kennett Square Presbyterian Church, 211 South Broad Street in Kennett Square.
required day of auction. Settlement on or before Dec. 5, 2022, Transfer taxes to be paid by buyer. Real Estate taxes shall be prorated. Annual taxes +/- $2974.00 Tools, Equipment, Lawn & Garden; 7’ x 12’ trailer single axle; Craftsman 10” table saw, 10” arm saw, router on stand, 4.5” jointer/planer, 16” scroll saw & belt/disc sander; White 21 HP riding lawn tractor 42” cut; poly dump cart; rear tine rototiller; several loaded organizers; (2) luggage carriers; 32’ alum ext. ladder; step ladders; lawn sweeper; double LP burner; express wagon, metal wagons; screws, bolts & other hardware; pipe & bar clamps; pipe wrench, levels, shovels, axes, pruners, rakes, weeders & other hand & masonry tools; misc. blocks & pavers; gas & trash cans; folding saw horses; patio table & chairs; misc. flower pots & planters; Antiques & Collectibles; 1800’s? Drumore post office mail sorter; antique pedal corn sheller; antique butchering stove top & bottom door; large hand saw & peg hole drills; scale arm; glass insulators; glass battery boxes; large pickle jars; marble roller; Coke, & other bottles; EW Huber & Park Miller milk bottles; meat grinder & flour sifters; cherry pitter; cheese & other boxes; crocks; tins; egg basket; ice tongues; straw cutter & other old barn iron; milk can; brace & bits; cloth bank & drug store bags; antique shavers; mustache cup; thimbles; (2) Gabriel fire cracker guns & belt; local pencil sketches; Blue Ridge dishes; Eldreth pottery; Furniture, Households & Misc.; Weslo tread mill; Speed Queen washer & dryer; GE Refrigerator; Maytag smooth top stove; recliner; ext. tables & chairs, spindle back & other chairs; Mission Oak librar y table; dressers & mirrors; horseshoe mirror; misc. Pamper Chef, Princess House, Tupperware & 50+ Longaberger baskets; Pyrex bowls; electric food slicer; lots games, Case 2390 toy tractor 1/16 scale & smaller toys; Structo truck; books & toys; many cookbooks; kitchenware like roasters, pots, pans, casserole & other dishes, goblets, glasses, mugs, plates & utensils; lamps; misc linens; lots misc candles, figurines & other decor; quilt frames; high chair; Christmas decorations some antique glass; Attention Realtors: 1% Broker Participation being offered to Realtors who preregister with their buyers and who become the successful bidder on day of auction. Must register 48 hours prior to date of auction. pre-registration forms are available at ww.beiler-campbellauctions.com Auctioneers Notes: 30-acre farm in southern Lancaster Co., Drumore Township and Solanco School District offering many farming possibilities as produce, crops or animals. Be sure to check out this property with blacktop drive &
From Buck 372 West, to left onto Susquehannock Drive, to property on left.
Kennett Collaborative’s
Landenberg family presented with World War II veteran’s awards
Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 5467 recently hosted a posthumous medal awards ceremony for the family of late World War II veteran Sgt. Pasquale J. Lepore.
The family reached out to the post a few months ago because they needed assistance seeking medals that Lepore was owed for
his military service. A fire destroyed many Army personnel records for the period of 1912 through 1959, which prevented the family the ability to attain the medals for their loved one. Sgt. Lepore served in the U.S. Army during World War II in Europe from May 27, 1943 until November 25, 1946. He served with Company L, the 10th Infantry.
His family now resides in Landenberg.
Sgt. Lepore served the nation proudly and with honor. He was not able to receive all that he was owed during his life, as he recently passed on July 22. However, the VFW Post 5467 was honored to
help ensure that the family receive these medals, and that they could, in some small measure, pay back the sacrifices he made for the nation.
The shadowbox of medals and ribbons presented to Sgt. Lepore’s family included the following:
• Bronze Star Award
• Honorable Service
Lapel Button World War II
• American Campaign
Medal
• World War II Victory
Medal
• Combat Infantryman
Badge 1st Award
• European-American-
Middle Eastern Theater
Medal w/ 3 Bronze Service
Stars Star, and a
• Good Conduct Medal
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices
Fox & Roach, Realtors named a top workplace
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Fox & Roach, Realtors is a winner of the Delaware Valley Top Workplaces 2022.
“We are so proud of all of our employees and thank them for their dedication and commitment. We value our employees and respect their work experiences,” said Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Fox & Roach CEO Larry Flick, V.
The list is based solely on employee feedback gathered through a third-
party survey administered by employee engagement technology partner Energage LLC. The anonymous survey uniquely measures 15 culture drivers that are critical to the success of any organization including alignment, execution, and connection, just to name a few.
“Earning a Top Workplaces award is a badge of honor for companies, especially because it comes authentically from their employees,” said Eric
Rubino, Energage CEO.
“That’s something to be proud of. In today’s market, leaders must ensure they’re allowing employees to have a voice and be heard. That’s paramount. Top Workplaces do this, and it pays dividends.”
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Fox & Roach, Realtors is part of HomeServices of America, the nation’s largest provider of total home services and largest residential brokerage company in the
U.S. in sales, according to the 2022 REAL Trends 500 report. The company has been awarded “Real Estate Agency Brand of the Year” and Top Workplaces in 2022. With over 5,000 sales professionals and 600 employees in more than 75 sales offices across the Tri-State area, the company was recently acknowledged as #1, for the seventh year in a row, in the entire national Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Network.
Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 5467 recently held a posthumous medal awards ceremony for the family of late World War II veteran Sgt. Pasquale J. Lepore.
