Chester County Press 10-14-2020 Edition

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

Volume 154, No. 40

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Wednesday, October 14, 2020

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Kennett Consolidated School District aims for Oct. 26 hybrid reopening

By Chris Barber Contributing Writer The Kennett Consolidated School District Board unanimously approved Superintendent Dr. Dusty Blakey’s plan to reopen the district's schools on Oct. 26, but not without many questions of procedure and expressions of concern for students.

Telling the board on Monday in an online Zoom meeting that Kennett and Avon Grove were the last

The Oxfordian

among local schools to reopen for some in-person classes, Blakey said the statistics for COVID-19 infection for the greater Kennett community and specifically among young students was low and safe, according to the Chester County Health Department.

Blakey and his staff have developed a model that includes instruction available for students in-class as well as for those who choose to continue virtual learning with their laptop computers.

His presentation to reopen in-

school instruction is formally known as his “hybrid plan.”

“We wanted to focus on a plan that was good for everyone,” Blakey said.

The hybrid in-school plan presents a two-section schedule: One for grades K-5, and the other for grades 6-12.

The students in the earlier grades whose families choose to return to class will attend school five days a week, but will be divided into two groups by early and late letters of the alphabet.

Throughout the meeting,

This diagram illustrates the timeline for Kennett’s reopening plan.

Blakey and his colleagues group, the students whose referred to the groups of stu- last names start with A-Le dents as “cohorts.” will attend school in the For the elementary school Continued on Page 4A

Boston Market celebrates East Marlborough grand opening in Oxford supervisors discuss a request from Walmart

Echeverria leaving economic post in Kennett...3A

By Monica Thompson Fragale Contributing Writer

Courtesy photos

On Oct. 5, the new Boston Market officially opened in Oxford Borough. Company officials were joined by a number of local officials for a ribbon-cutting ceremony.

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A new Boston Market is now open in Oxford Borough, bringing another dining option for southern Chester County residents.

A grand-opening celebration for the new restaurant took place on Oct. 5. Boston Market is expanding its presence in the Philadelphia region, and recently opened five new restaurants, including the one in Oxford.

State Rep. John Lawrence, Oxford Borough Mayor Phil Harris, borough manager Brian Hoover, and Oxford Borough Council member Mary Higgins were among a host of local officials who

turned out for the ribboncutting ceremony at 10:30 a.m. The restaurant officially opened its doors at 11 a.m. The location at 66 South 3rd Street was previously the longtime home of a Pizza Hut and, very briefly earlier this year, the home of another chicken restaurant.

The new Boston Market in Oxford features an inviting décor that creates a warm atmosphere that reflects the new contemporary look and feel of the brand.

To protect the health and well-being of guests and team members, Boston Market has implemented

numerous measures – from face coverings to social distancing practices – as part of its commitment to safety.

In addition to takeout options, Boston Market also offers curbside pick-up of its hotand-ready homestyle meals so guests can grab lunch or dinner for the entire family on the go without ever leaving the car.

Orders can be placed in advance on BostonMarket. com or the Boston Market app (IOS and Android).

The restaurant’s hours of operation are Monday to Saturday from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Can the Walmart in East Marlborough Township change its exterior color from tan to its trademark blue?

That is the question the East Marlborough Township supervisors will address at their Nov. 2 meeting, after initially discussing it at their October meeting. At issue is whether the supervisors can vote on the color change without having to hold a conditional-use hearing and allowing for the public to have more time to comment on the proposed change.

“Right now we’ve heard more opposition than support,” Robert McKinstry, the chairman of the board of supervisors, said during the online meeting. “I don’t know if it’s necessary to go through conditional use, but I think the community should have a chance to hear about that.”

Township Solicitor Ross Unruh is currently reviewing the original land development agreements and the conditional-use orders to determine if a conditional-use hearing is needed. At the meeting, he also suggested that the board seek additional comment from neighbors.

Dusty Elias Kirk, the attorney for Walmart and developer Marlborough Associates, said she would work with Unruh to see if a hearing was needed.

Township resident Shachi Patel suggested Walmart should be allowed to change their colors, saying, “I appreciate all the changes (Walmart) made during COVID. As a member of the community … I do not see why Walmart cannot change their colors.”

Resident Shelley Mincer said she thought Walmart should conform to the original conditional-use permit and have the colors remain the same.

Continued on Page 4A

Square Roots Collective: The ethics of stewardship

By Richard L. Gaw Staff Writer To trace the beginnings of what has led Square Roots Collective into becoming one of the most successful project-driven agencies in southern Chester County, one needs to travel no more than one hour west to Lancaster County, to where co-founder Mike Bontrager grew up as the son of a Mennonite minister.

Like his wife Dot, who grew up the daughter of

a Mennonite farmer, the influence of the church’s philosophy took hold of Bontrager as a child growing up in the 1960s and 1970s and informed the direction of his life.

“The principles of the Mennonites were built on community, social action and loving your neighbor long before it was fashionable to do so,” he said. “I remember one time when there were floods in northern Pennsylvania. Our church packed about 15 to

20 of us in a van, and we drove up and helped others.

They were shaping times for me, in order to understand how we fit in terms of the greater community.

“When people have needs, you help them,” he said.

While the official “Square Roots Collective” (SRC) name is less than two years old, its foundation was first planted in the Kennett Square community 25 years ago, when the Bontragers moved to the area to begin a family and launch Chatham

Photo courtesy of Square Roots Collective

Square Roots Collective restored the industrial shell of the former Eastern Condensed Milk Company on Birch Street in Kennett Square, to what is now The Creamery.

Financial, a financial derivatives advisory and technology company. From its humble beginnings, the company slowly grew from

Mike working over his garage, to a few dozen staff working out of a barn, and eventually into a worldwide Continued on Page 2A

Kennett Township to begin innovative program to improve water quality

By Richard L. Gaw Staff Writer By a 3-0 vote at their Oct. 7 virtual meeting, the Kennett Township Supervisors entered the township into the Revolving Water Fund, an innovative model intended to improve water quality and reduce sediment at water sources in the BrandywineChristina Watershed by up to 40 percent during the first few years of the program.

By entering into the agreement – which will cost $155,000 and project to remove nine tons of sediment from water sources -- the township will become the first municipality in Pennsylvania to enter into the program. By entering into the program, the township will meet the regulatory mandates of the federal government and the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection

(DEP).

Engineered through a partnership between i2 Capital and the Nature Conservancy, the Revolving Water Fund (RWF) is a groundbreaking conservation finance program that implements natural infrastructure on agricultural lands in order to reduce sediments in the waterways while supporting compliance objectives.

The RWF model correlates agricultural conservation

practices with regulatory compliance, water company cost savings and other private and public objectives to capture the economic benefits of conservation.

Headquartered in Washington, D.C. with offices in Colorado and Wyoming, i2 Capital structures and sponsors innovative finance mechanisms to expand capital solutions for conservation.

The Virginia-based Nature

Conservancy is a global environmental agency that has become one of the most effective and wide-reaching environmental organizations in the world.

Before it is officially implemented, the RWF model first needs approval by the DEP. The contract with the RWF will be part of Kennett Township’s 2021 budget expense, supported by the Continued on Page 4A

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Square Roots Collective...

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leader in risk management advisory and technology solutions, with over 600 employees in seven offices on four continents around the globe.

Nineteen years ago, Luke Zubrod – now SRC’s operations lead -- began what would become a 17-year career at Chatham Financial, eventually leading culture and policy initiatives. He saw the “big picture” of the company’s vision, one that saw success as something not based entirely on financial returns, but rather as the opportunity to make the markets in which they serve more equitable, to invest in the communities in which

they operate, and to elevate trust as the north star of client interactions.

“What made Chatham so special was that it became a vehicle for making the world a better place in the domain of finance,” he said. “It grew on the idea of creating multiple bottom lines -- to create impact not only financially but to advance the mutual interests of Chatham and our clients. On Wall Street, there is a big breach between finance and society, and Chatham Financial sought to close that breach.

“What I have observed as the common DNA between Chatham and SRC is an ethic of stewardship. We were always asking, ‘How do we take our resources and put them in the service of the greater good?’”

Social impact, environment, percent of the elementary community development classrooms in the Kennett Consolidated School District.

As Chatham Financial grew Following the lead of in size, so did its commit- this shared and simple phiment to the community it losophy, SRC is making a served. Together with a local significant and lasting imprint youth pastor, Bontrager on Kennett Square by engaghelped found The Garage ing three key pillars: social Community & Youth Center, impact, environment and whose locations in Kennett community development: Square and West Grove have • In an effort to improve provided thousands of area a derelict property and youth with a safe and nurtur- create a new type of commuing haven of activities and nity gathering space for all, learning. Dot formed the local SRC restored the industrial chapter of Community Bible shell of the former Eastern Study, an interdenomination- Condensed Milk Company al group that now has 250 on Birch Street and in 2016, members in two chapters in opened The Creamery. the county.

• In order to address the In addition, Chatham issue of affordable housing in Financial launched Together Kennett Square, SRC created for Education, a non-profit The Maple Grove Housing organization that provides Project, in collaboration with local volunteers to over 35 Kennett Area Community Services (KACS) and other partners from the municipal, business, and nonprofit sectors. The project is focused specifically on converting a vacant rental property on Maple Street, donated by Square Roots Collective, into a transitional housing option for local residents facing barriers to stable housing.

• SRC, together with KACS tricks this year. and United Way of Southern “Trick or Treaters Chester County, created The should follow all of the Southern Chester County CDC guidelines and parOpportunity Network ticipate in a safe manner,” (SCCON), in collaboraFetick said of the event, tion with committed local which will take place on stakeholders to address Oct. 31 from 6 p.m. to the issue of poverty in the 8 p.m. region. The principles that “I realize this has been SCCON are founded on are a challenging time for based on the Bridges Out everyone, especially of Poverty model that taps kids,” Fetick said. “There into the strengths of variis a real desire to have ous socioeconomic levels some normalcy in our to seek solutions, together. lives and to allow kids to Coordinated by a planning be kids. And yet, we as team made up of diverse a community have made community leaders, its many great strides in containinteractive workshops are ing the spread of the virus intended to educate commuand we want to do our nity members and engage best to keep it that way.” them in pursuing solutions that enable transitioning from poverty to economic sustainability.

• In lockstep with the Kennett Borough’s comprehensive plan for development, the SRC’s Birch Street Project intends to work with the street’s residents and other local leaders to develop the street into an avenue of art, culture and community. Using the success of the Kennett Creamery and other new

Kennett Square mayor announces plan for Trick or Treat night In Kennett Square, children will be allowed to seek out treats on Halloween, but the borough’s mayor is hoping that everyone will respect their neighbors and skip the tricks this year.

And, most importantly, the mayor is hoping that everyone continues to follow the CDC guidelines regarding wearing face coverings, social distancing, and avoiding large group gatherings.

Mayor Matt Fetick addressed the issue last week.

“In light of COVID-19 and our current situation, we have received

many inquiries regarding Halloween and Trick or Treat,” Fetick said in a statement. “While in the past the borough has provided additional police and safety measures for Trick or Treat, the event itself is not a borough event. Trick or Treat is a private event hosted by many homeowners.”

Fetick said that the borough encourages everyone to adhere to CDC recommendations regarding Trick or Treating. He was also asking neighbors to be very respectful of other neighbors, so if anyone doesn’t want to participate in Trick or Treat, that decision should be respected—no

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Partnering with other agencies, Square Roots Collective launched The Kennett Trail Alliance in an effort to link some of the community’s most important natural and community assets together to form the Kennett Greenway.

businesses that have joined Birch Street, such as Braeloch Brewery as examples, the SRC is looking to encourage further development with an evolving approach and community involvement, into an destination that will not only be attractive but economically sustainable.

• In partnership with Lincoln University, SRC launched the Voices Underground Project in the Fall of 2019. The goal of this project is to promote the nationally significant history of the Underground Railroad in the region through scholarly research, creative partnerships, public experiences and historical recognition.

• SRC launched The Kennett Trail Alliance -- in partnership with the Kennett Borough, Kennett Township and The Land Conservancy for Southern Chester County -- in an effort to link some of the community’s most important natural and community assets to form a 14-mile trail loop known as the Kennett Greenway.

• Teaming up with the Kennett Consolidated School District and other community partners, SRC collaborated to form the Kindergarten Readiness Initiative in 2017, to improve the “Kindergarten readiness” of youngsters preparing to enter school

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who have not had preschool experience, or have limited English language skills.

• In May, SRC partnered with Historic Kennett Square on the Historic Kennett Square Small Business Response Fund, a major matching-fund campaign that provided immediate relief to small, consumer-facing retail businesses in Kennett Square Borough and Kennett Township in the form of grants up to $10,000. For every dollar that was donated to the fund up to $250,000, SRC matched each gift. The fund has dispensed more than $275,000 -- 75 percent of which has been directed to minority- or woman-owned businesses.

While the work of SRC is being done in the smallish incubator of the Kennett Square community, its stakesin-the-ground projects have been influenced by organizations around the country like Thriving Cities Group, Marsh Collective, Strong Towns and FSG. They have helped Bontrager, Zubrod and brand and creative lead Sandra Mulry to measure each of SRC’s initiatives as small parts of a collective whole.

“We intuitively knew that we had a vision as to what a thriving town should look like, but we couldn’t articulate it, until we saw what other similar groups like ours were doing,” Bontrager said.

“As we began to be exposed to other groups, we began to pull back and ask ourselves, ‘How do these different projects contribute to the overall ecosystem of Kennett Square?’”

At the launch pad for many of SRC’s projects is a conversation that begins with the familiar question, ‘What if?’

When Bontrager and Mulry first looked at the Eastern

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Chester County Press Condensed Milk Company on Birch Street, they saw a forlorn and neglected piece of Kennett Square’s past, but instead of passing it by, they saw a possibility and a need. “We did not have an idea for it when we bought it, but I knew that there was a beautiful structure underneath, and that somebody who loves this town should buy this,� Bontrager said. “Once we bought it, there were a lot of ideas as to what it could become, that eventually intersected with the idea of trying it out as a popup venture. We approached the Kennett Borough and said, ‘Let’s partner on this experiment.’�

Bontrager said that no mat-

ter the project – whether it is broadening the reach of a vital greenway or creating ways to level off what the agency refers to as ‘the uneven nature of opportunity’ -- SRC is constantly searching for the right kind of alliances. “When we run into the partners we believe are the right partners, and we believe we can actually accomplish something with them, and then we go full steam,� he said. “As an entrepreneur, I am motivated by experimentation and out-of-the-box ideas. The Kennett area is small enough to see whether ideas are working, to see whether we can move the needle on the address-

ing systemic issues, unlike a large city like Chicago or New York -- where there are so many factors impacting results that it is difficult to know if you are making a systemic difference.�

It does no harm to SRC that they operate in a diverse community of overlapping altruism, seen in the business, private and public sectors in Kennett Square who often share the credit for the network of initiatives and strong social infrastructure that has become the bedrock of the town. “Mike, Sandra and I – as well as many other members of the SRC team – are deeply embedded in the community and we are neighbors with

Photo courtesy of Square Roots Collective

The Square Roots Collective team.

people, so between Mike’s Some will fall on the rocks catalytic instincts to create and not take root, but the othpossibility and these partners, ers will reach the soil.� we’ve been able to share, shift and shape these ideas,�

Out-of-the-box vision Zubrod said. “It’s a function of planting them like seeds.

The graphic identity for Square Roots Collective -- that of a box, with the company’s name appearing beside it – is purely intentional.

Bontrager, Mulry and Zubrod would be the first to admit that the business principle that continues to steer SRC is based on an “out-ofthe-box� philosophy that asks its many partners to “think big.� Often, it’s a wide-eyed strategy that runs against the grain of quiet, plodding progress. “A lot of procedures and red tape are there because they have to be, and I get that,�

Nate Echeverria Bontrager said. “However, at the municipal level,� sometimes when the red Wright said. “We’ve also tape becomes the driver, it been really lucky to have obscures the intent of what had Nate here during matters. We always need to these critical years in the be aware of public safety area’s development. He’s and a project’s impact on its brought not only experineighbors, but we also need ence and expertise, but a community that says ‘Let’s also a thoughtful approach try that.’ and heartfelt desire to “In any ecosystem, there help small businesses sucare trade-offs that have to be ceed. We will miss him made in order to make the tremendously, but we’re ecosystem to thrive. We feel looking forward to what that there needs to be a good his successor will be able discussion and debate about to accomplish because of what those trade-offs are, the groundwork Nate has and what the impact of those done.� trade-offs are.�

Echeverria leaving economic development director post in Kennett Historic Kennett Square announced the departure of Nate Echeverria, Kennett’s first-ever economic development director, on Monday.

Echeverria is leaving Kennett to take a position as a senior planner in the city of Key West, where he’ll be working on a variety of climate change adaptation and economic development projects.

Echeverria was hired thee years ago to lead the newly created Office of Economic Development. In 2016, Kennett Township, the Borough of Kennett Square, and Historic Kennett Square boosted their collaboration, first by commissioning a Kennett Region Economic Development Study, and then by enacting some of the recommendations in

that study.

Echeverria was instrumental in laying the groundwork that allowed the borough and township to apply for a $1.4 million grant to improve the infrastructure on Birch Street. While improving the Birch Street infrastructure is a long-term goal, Echeverria has also worked on many projects with more tangible, short-term outcomes. “Finding a tenant for the long-vacant historic building at 120 East State Street is one project we’re really proud of,â€? Echeverria said. “Work2gether moving into that long-vacant building, and also CafĂŠ de Thai taking over the former Kennett Pizza space, are good case studies that illustrate the value of the Historic Kennett Square Office of Economic Development. We helped find great tenants for both of those spaces, but we also

helped both businesses navigate the process of opening their businesses here and secure financing through the Revolving Loan Fund.�

The Borough’s Revolving Loan Fund, which Echeverria has managed, helps to attract new businesses, allows existing businesses to grow and, most recently, has been used to help businesses survive the impact of the pandemic.

Bo Wright, the executive director of Historic Kennett Square, said that the position that Echeverria has filled for the past three years is unique because it enables both of the local municipalities to think more broadly and strategically about implementing long-range plans that will benefit the area as a whole. “We’re fortunate to have forward-thinking, collaborative, and engaged leadership

Despite the necessary roadblocks that often limit the expediency of progress, Bontrager said that he, Mulry, Zubrod and the entire agency remain committed to moving the needle of SRC’s vision forward. “As someone who seeks to follow the path of Jesus, of course I am called to love my neighbors, regardless of their faith, background, social standing or how they identify,� he said. “But a major spiritual experience in my thirties also changed my understanding that I am a steward rather than an owner of my talents, financial resources, social capital and influence. I have been entrusted with these benefits to serve others rather than accumulate for myself.� “I have always believed that Chatham Financial is Mike’s mind, but Square Roots Collective is his heart,� Mulry said. “He is deeply rooted in this love for community for all people to thrive. We’ve been privileged to be a part of that heart, to curate these spaces that honor the past and our local heritage, and pave the way for opportunities for the future.�

To learn more about Square Roots Collective, visit www. ksqroots.com.

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

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CHESTER COUNTY PRESS

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Local News Water quality...

Continued from Page 1A

general fund. The contract comprises the remaining significant cost for the township to fulfill its sediment reduction requirements under its current MS4 permit.

The concept was developed with major support from the Natural Resources Conservation Service’s Conservation Innovation Grants program and the William Penn Foundation.

The township’s initiative is in keeping with sediment regulations that have been incorporated by state and federal governments, who have established waste-load allocations for municipalities identifying the maximum amount of pollutants that can be discharged into streams.

Sediment can come from soil erosion or from the decomposition of plants and animals.

Hybrid opening...

Continued from Page 1A

morning, and those with Li-Z will attend in the afternoon.

This will start on Oct. 26 for the morning cohort and Oct. 27 for the afternoon cohort.

The remote instruction will continue for those who choose not to return to inperson classes at this time.

Then, on the week of Nov. 16, the later grades will start in-school instruction.

Those students who elect the return in-person model will attend school on either Monday-Tuesday or on Thursday-Friday. On the other three days, the students will participate in remote learning. Those who do not choose the hybrid model will continue with virtual learn-

Wind, water and ice help carry these particles to rivers, lakes and streams.

The Environmental Protection Agency lists an extensive array of sediment in rivers, streams, lakes and reservoirs, but focuses on pollutants from poisoned or toxic sediments which make their way into the food chain, accumulating in fish, ducks and other wildlife.

“Having a sufficient supply of clean water is a pressing issue for Kennett Township and the whole country,” said board Chairman Dr. Richard Leff. “The supervisors are proud of the work done by Township Manager Eden Ratliff and his staff in coming up with a solution that is cost effective for the taxpayers of the township.”

“Kennett Township is constantly seeking ways to improve the environment for our citizens,” Ratliff

said. “The team at Kennett Township worked with the specialists at the Revolving Water Fund to bring this model to life in a way that is beneficial to municipal governments in Pennsylvania who face mounting pressure and costs to build out their Municipal Separate Storm Sewer Systems (MS4) plans. We are very proud to be the first municipality in Pennsylvania to pioneer this program.”

ing. Again, the cohorts will be divided based on the first letter of their last names.

The first day for the early alphabet older students will be Monday, Oct. 16, and for the lower alphabet it will be on Thursday, Oct. 19.

High School Principal Dr. Jeremy Hritz endorsed the benefits of in-school learning, saying they provide continuity of schedule, less screen tine and face-to face interaction with teachers.

Director of Facilities George Wolhafe addressed the safety precautions the district is taking. Among them are face masks (students who refuse will be referred to remote learning); desks and students will be six feet apart and facing in the same direction; mask breaks out-

side; limit activities to those that support social distancing; and no water fountains.

Students will have locations where they can fill their own water bottles.

Buses will load seating from back to front, the drivers will wear masks and the buses will be sanitized regularly.

School nurse Diane Shannon fielded a barrage of questions about student safety regarding health. She encouraged parents to keep their kids home if they had symptoms, and keep them home for 10 days if they had contracted COVID-19.

It was important to get clearance from a doctor before returning to school, she said.

There were repeated questions from the board

A challenge for municipalities During her presentation to the board, Ashley Allen, founder and CEO of i2 Capital, said that a majority of the streams in the BrandywineChristina Watershed contain an excessive amount of sediment, nitrogen and phosphorus. While that is a challenge for the township,

“it’s fundamentally a challenge that has some creative solutions that we are at the forefront of advancing,” she said. “We’ve been involved in the process to drive solutions that are affordable, compliant and make sense.”

Allen said that as much as 80 percent of the pollutants found in the BrandywineChristina Watershed are derived from agriculture, which will direct much of the energies of the RWF to explore methods of reducing those pollutants by installing riparian buffers, cover crops and wetlands.

She said that the goal of the RWF in the township will be to identify and implement strong conservation practices, develop a risk-reduction agenda that will facilitate the projects, and provide the regulatory compliance support with the township.

Allen told the board that members on what would happen if a student or more than one was diagnosed with the virus.

Shannon said that, according to health department protocols, parents would be notified if a first student was affected, but not so for additional cases.

The conflict between confidentiality and releasing

Walmart...

Continued from Page 1A

“This could open a can of worms if the township were to permit a change, as all the other businesses have had to conform,” she said, referring to the village look of businesses along the Route 1 cor-

Courtesy photos

Kennett Township Manger Eden Ratliff.

the township will now be in the fold of a consortium of leaders and critical partnerships in creating clean-water solutions.

“We are trying to advance a bi-state, cross-border watershed solution, and in order to do that, we need to engage with leaders on both the Delaware and Pennsylvania side,” Allen said. “You are forwardthinking and not afraid of pushing the envelope and

Ashley Allen, the founder & CEO of i2 Capital, has entered into an agreement with Kennett Township to introduce the Revolving Water Fund, an innovative method of improving water quality and reducing sediment at water sources in the Brandywine-Christina watershed.

taking a step that is breakthrough. This is definitely a very exciting partnership for us.”

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

information lies in the federal Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) regulations, which address privacy issues of people who are sick.

In other business, Athletic Director Sean Harvey announced that each sports team participant would be allowed two spectator tickets per game, both home and

away.

Student council member Meredith Davies announced that the Kennett Football team beat Henderson last Friday night.

Parents will be notified of bus schedules by mail and can get more complete information online from the school district by visiting kcsd.org.

ridor in East Marlborough.

The village look is what resident Marilyn Quinn appreciated.

“I really have always liked the way Walmart has tried to blend in with our community,” she said. “They did try to keep a village feel.”

McKinstry said the township has pointed to

Walmart when other businesses had requested colors other than the ones allowed in the village district. He suggested that Kirk return in November with a full-color presentation so the board and residents can see what the color change would look like.

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Opinion

Editorial

Letters to the Editor

The herd mentality of the oblivious and the defiant

Support Ruggieri on Election Day

This past Saturday afternoon, the Chester County Press reporter, seeking a brief respite from the COVID world, went for a walk along a public trail and ran headlong into the COVID world.

For the past seven months, the reporter has closely r followed the three golden rules specified by the , Centers for Disease Control to the point where they r have burned themselves into his life like ritual: Wash hands, wear mask, socially distance. Since March, the entirety of his social life has dwindled down to a few sporadic in-person gatherings with a friend or two, or been relegated to the Hollywood Squares stack of faces he regularly sees on Zoom.

Therefore, his decision to put a mask on at the public trail had nothing to do with self-advertisement that painted him as the good soldier of the pandemic. Just as he has done in the dozens of walks he has been on since March, the reporter wore his mask because it was the safe thing to do. Since March, he has accepted and worn the cloak of inconvenience.

Apparently, he was the only one on the trail who got the message.

During his two-mile trek, only one of the 18 walkers and runners the reporter encountered wore a mask and, most fruitless of all, one walker chose to rationalize his decision by placing a hand over his face when he came close to another trail user. The complete lack of responsibility on the part of the trail walkers and runners was not only reprehensible, it was an act of defiance against common sense.

Around nearly every bend in the trail, the reporter encountered another mask-less walker or runner, comfortable and protected in the bubble of their ignorance, against the backdrop of what he has learned – and what they have chosen to ignore.

He has seen a virus that has caused the deaths of 214,000 Americans co-opted by the twin agenda of politics and finance, instead of manifested as a concerted effort to devise a national emergency plan.

He has witnessed the tsunami of misinformation about coronavirus that has – for some -- become the new and accepted narrative of truth.

He has seen the United States become the COVID Capitol of the World, recording the highest number of cases and the most recorded deaths of any country, despite the fact that it represents only 4.25 percent of the world’s population.

He has seen a White House administration and a large percentage of Republican governance disrespect scientific evidence of the virus, while openly ridiculing the legitimacy of those men and women of science whose stellar research and findings continue to save lives.

From this same White House, he has seen the continued "sissification" of mask wearing applied to those who choose to do so and, perhaps worst of all, witnessed the blind arrogance of those who believe that the practice of wearing a mask is a violation of their freedoms as Americans.

Because it is his job to know such things, the reporter had seen that morning a number that he continues to track: 370 Chester County residents have died from COVID-19.

He read that morning that the average number of new coronavirus cases reported in Pennsylvania had tripled in one month, from 570 new cases reported on Sept. 9 to 1,568 new cases reported on Oct. 9.

He continues to read about a long winter ahead that will introduce a second wave of COVID-19, one projected to be even more deadly than the first wave.

The reporter had planned to walk three miles last Saturday. As he finished his second mile, he left the trail. There would be no final lap; he had seen enough of the herd mentality of the oblivious and the defiant.

He returned to his home, where he will prepare for the long winter ahead.

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Letter to the Editor: Do you find the property tax both burdensome and unfair? Do you care about the quality of our schools?

Then vote Rich Ruggieri to the Pennsylvania House for the 13th District.

John Lawrence has had nearly a decade to eliminate the property tax burden on middle- and low-income families while adequately funding our public schools, but little to nothing has happened.

Instead of tax relief for you and me, John has voted to expand the State’s Educational Improvement Tax Credit (EITC) which

allows wealthy individuals and businesses to direct up to 90 percent of their Pennsylvania income tax to benefit private schools and other loosely defined educational charities.

The goals of the EITC program -- lifting families out of poverty by providing financial aid for students otherwise attending failing schools -- is laudable. I’d have no problem with such a program if the state were adequately funding public schools, but Pennsylvania ranks 47th in the nation for state share of funding for K-12 schools. So long as the state funding formula locks in dollars directed to

school districts with falling enrollments and children in wealthy communities receive the benefits of a growing property tax base, students in Oxford, Avon Grove and Octorara will be left behind.

Every tax credit dollar diverted to the EITC -$124 million in fiscal 2018 -- is a dollar denied our public schools. Every tax credit dollar received by wealthy individuals, is a tax dollar you and I have to make up.

I take John Lawrence at his word that he genuinely supports property tax reform and seeks ways to support our local pub-

lic schools, but John clearly has no influence with the leadership of the Republican majority in the General Assembly—dominated as it is by right-wing legislators from other regions of the state. John cannot or will not get the job done.

We need a Democratic majority in Harrisburg. We need your vote for Richard Ruggieri. Vote for adequate state funding for our public schools and tax relief directed a you and me, not the wealthy. Richard will get the job done.

Katy Griffith New London Township

Vote for candidates who support democracy Letter to the Editor: This year, we heard the President shockingly call for less democracy: If you had high levels of voting “you’d never have a Republican elected in this country again.”

I disagree. You’d have better Republicans instead.

Unfortunately, Republican politicians nationwide are pushing ways to win power even when the American people are against them. The Electoral College put

Trump into the presidency, even though he lost the popular vote by nearly three million votes. The Republican Senate is rushing to put another Supreme Court Justice in place, so the court can award Trump a close election.

At the state level, the Republican Party has been aggressively gerrymandering -- drawing Congressional and statelegislature district lines to guarantee their majorities, regardless of voters’ wishes.

Pennsylvania has had some

of the most wildly gerrymandered maps, which still keep Republican majorities in both state houses. The party is now acting to set up “judicial gerrymandering” -- twisted districts to lock a Republican majority onto the state courts.

When voters in Wisconsin and Michigan chose Democratic governors, gerrymandered Republican legislatures weakened the Governor’s powers. The GOP is trying to remove hundreds of thousands of voters from rolls in

Georgia, Wisconsin, Ohio, Kentucky, and Florida.

Trump’s attacks on the U.S. Postal Service seek to prevent people from voting by mail during a deadly pandemic.

Please fight back -Vote for candidates that support, rather than suppress, democracy. Let’s build a future with better Republicans -- and better Democrats -- who win elections by winning voters.

Dr. James G. Lertola Kennett Township

Op-Ed

COVID policies must give restaurants a fighting chance

By State Sen. Lisa Boscola (D-Lehigh/Northampton) Imagine a longer-thananticipated workday that leads to a late dinner with a desire for an adult beverage.

Pre-COVID, this was not only a common occurrence, but also legal with plenty of dining options. However, in Pennsylvania, it is no longer feasible to enjoy a quick late-night meal while sitting at your favorite bar.

While we have taken great care to protect the citizens of the commonwealth during the pandemic, we also have been inconsistent with the implementation and guidance associated with risk mitigation policies, especially for the restaurant industry.

Dr. Amesh Adalja, a senior scholar at Johns Hopkins Center for Health Security, noted in a recent article that public health interventions should be as least restrictive and as targeted as possible based on evidence. He went on to note that states should have a definitive time frame and identify the metrics used to put the restrictions in place and a process by which they are re-evaluated. This has been lacking in the policies surrounding restaurants and bars since the Governor walked back the restaurant regulations initially allowed in the “green” phase.

The Governor’s green phase regulations issued back in May provided for 50 percent capacity, bar service with appropriate spacing and no food purchase requirement. Based

on this policy the Hotel Bethlehem, Zest and many others invested significant dollars to meet the regulations in anticipation of our county’s transition to green. Specifically, they installed plexiglass dividers to distance employees from customers and built wings to separate patrons into groups of two at their bars.

Most proprietors understand that congregating at the bar without masks puts both employees and customers at risk. However, prohibiting service at the bar only shrinks a restaurant’s already limited capacity by rendering one of their safest dining areas unusable.

The restaurant and lodging industry is critical to Pennsylvania. The industry employs over 550,000 people and accounts for nearly $25 billion in sales (2018 data). Prior to the pandemic, the Pennsylvania Restaurant and Lodging Association represented over 26,000 locations including restaurants, hotels, breweries, wineries, distilleries and event centers. Every day that number is shrinking and every day it gets harder for those who are fighting to stay open.

The pandemic is the driving force behind the industry’s woes, but our state policies further exacerbate the issue. Currently, we have the third most restrictive policies in the country, which are being applied statewide regardless of COVID’s local impact.

While the Governor recently announced an

increase in capacity to 50 percent via a self-certification process, his latest mandate still maintains a requirement to order food with your adult beverage and compels establishments to stop serving alcohol by 11 p.m. These policies make it harder, not easier, to operate. Business owners look for some type of regulatory certainty and in the era of COVID a clearer understanding of when temporary restrictions will be revaluated and eventually removed.

The administration points to a study from the Centers Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) as well as the rise in cases in the state for people between the ages of 19-24. They also point to a July study from Allegheny County regarding the number of people who tested positive AND had visited a restaurant in the last 14 days. However, it never suggests a safe level at which restaurants could expand occupancy.

In a review of policies in other states, New York recognized early on that not all areas should be treated similarly. As early as June 11, areas outside New York City had indoor capacity of restaurants raised to no more than 50 percent of the maximum occupancy, exclusive of employees.

There is no curfew and bar seating is included in the capacity permitted with appropriate social distancing and mask wearing.

The onus is on the business owners to implement these policies by using the potential loss of license and

Courtesy photo

State Sen. Lisa Boscola

immediate shutdown for those entities that violate the rules.

Why not take the same approach in Pennsylvania?

How about raise the maximum capacity of a restaurant to 50 percent with no curfew? Allow bar service with appropriate distancing with a plan to expand incrementally -then see what happens over specific period?

Pennsylvania’s current plan appears overly broad, not measured and not tailored to the local level. In fact, given our diversity it would be possible to implement policies strategically and locally, thereby limiting the ongoing damage COVID has had to this important industry. I supported House Bill 2513 because it provides restaurants with slightly more flexibility to operate during this pandemic. Providing small businesses with grants to survive the initial shutdown kept them open.

Now, it is a much different time, and we need to set policies that give them a fighting chance to not only survive; but thrive.

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CHESTER COUNTY PRESS

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Chester County Press

In the Spotlight

Section

B

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 14, 2020

A pizza apple pie and new queen named at Taste of the Fair

By Chris Barber Contributing Writer In the quest to select the new queen or find the most recent championship pie, the leadership of the Unionville Community Fair was not hampered by the limitations forced by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Longtime organizer and frequent president Bonnie Musser said they wanted to continue the tradition of naming a fair queen and princess, but due to the ban on large gatherings, they were not able to have the traditional pageant.

The solution the committee came up with was to elevate the preceding year’s alternate queen and princess to the ascendant royalty this year.

At the third Taste of the Fair event that took place in Unionville last Saturday, the 2020 queen’s crown was bestowed on Lauren Chamberlain by 2019 queen Lexie McNeil.

Tamasina Petragnani assumed the title of Fair Princess from 2019 princess Sophie Halsey.

The crowning ceremony took place on under a huge tree on the property of Foxy Loxy Ice Cream Parlour. Musicians Dan and Galla, who frequently perform at the Unionville Community Fair, provid-

Photos by Chris Barber

Pie-judging director Terry Hawkins displays the winning apple pie pizza baked by Anne Nuse.

ed entertainment for the occasion.

The naming of the queen and princess was just one of the events highlighting the third mini-fair that the committee offered to the public in the difficult year that has been fraught with the dangerous pandemic and widespread cancellations. The previous two Taste of the Fair events were held in August and September.

Another competition that has usually elicited excitement through the years is the naming of the best apple pie. In past years, that

Once and future fair royalty join for a photo shortly before the coronation ceremony. From left are 2020 Queen Lauren Chamberlain, 2019 Queen Lexie McNeil, 2019 Princess Sophie Halsey and 2020 Princess Tomasina Petragnani.

About a dozen freshly baked apple pies were lined up for judging.

The judges sample the apple pies. From left are Elsie Simpkins, Deb Rollins, Wendy Walker, baking judge director Terry Hawkins and judging chair Karen Statz.

Priscilla the alpha cow from Baily farm in Unionville makes a return appearance.

winner at the Unionville Community Fair then enters the pie at the Pennsylvania Farm Show to compete with other contest winners throughout the state.

This year’s winner was Anne Nuse, whose apple crumble pie was in the shape of a pizza. She was selected as first place winner out of 11 entries. The judges agreed that her pie was not only creative, but had “an excellent crust and beautiful presentation.”

Nuse explained afterward that the Pennsylvania Farm Show in Harrisburg would not be held in 2021, so her pie has reached its pinnacle in Unionville on Saturday.

This month’s Taste of the Fair was had plenty of visitors, with quite a few children arriving in Halloween costumes and some of them bring-

Brosius, a master farmer and former state Secretary of Agriculture, brought his reconditioned calliope, which provided classic tunes in alternating time periods with music entertainers Dan and Galla.

Several vendors also made their products available, and the Foxy Loxy Ice Cream Parlour and Coffee Shop was active throughout the day selling snacks.

Karen Statz, who in previous years has had the luxury of overseeing the competitions under shelter of a large old barn on the Landhope Farms property in Willowdale, artfully made do with the limitations of the interior at the former Unionville residence.

Also returning for a second visit to the Taste of the Fair was Priscilla the cow,

Musicians Dan and Galla provide entertainment along with Charlie Brosius and his restored calliope.

Lou Mandich helps guide 100-year-old Irenee DuPont into a parking place with his 102-year-old Buick.

Longtime pumpkin judge Bob Struble selects the winning carved pumpkins brought by kids.

The Unionville fox-hunting theme was carried out by a horse-and-hounds skeleton display.

One curious onlooker admired this Halloween display.

Newly crowned fair queen Lauren Chamberlain, left, poses with fair President Cindy Lawless.

ing carved pumpkins for judging.

Decades-long pumpkin judge and former Red Clay Valley Association CEO Bob Struble was on hand to select the winning pumpkin.

Another highlight at the event was the assembling of dozens of classic cars in what became in three months a convivial fair tradition led by Lou Mandich, the founder and operator of The Last Chance Garage, which services, repairs and restores antique vehicles.

“He’s here!” the vehicle owners cheered as Irenee DuPont, the 100-year-old driver of a 102-year-old Buick, arrived. DuPont then handily backed his car precisely into a parking place alongside a passel of other old vehicles.

Once again, Charlie

who is known around town as the alpha cow on the nearby Baily Farm.

The Unionville Community Fair was initially started as a corn show in 1924 by the members of the Future Farmers of America group at Unionville High School, and the event has grown and evolved since then.

In all, Musser, who has been attending and often participating in the fair for more than seven decades, said that fair organizers were not going to be deterred by the pandemic.

Musser was pleased with the results of the Taste of the Fair event.

“It was well-attended,” she said, adding that she is already looking forward to the 100th Unionville Community Fair four years from now.

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CHESTER COUNTY PRESS

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 14, 2020

Chester County Press

Obituaries RICKY A. SIERRA

HAZEL CRAIG GANDER

DONNA R. SMITH

Ricky A. Sierra passed away on Sept. 28 at Jennersville Hospital in West Grove. He was 65.

He was the husband of Cindy McGeehan Sierra.

Born in Oxford, he was the son of the late Jamie and Helen Walker Sierra, and was raised by Betty Coleman.

Ricky was employed with Chester County Prison as a corrections officer for 11 years and was formerly employed with Avon Fuel in Avondale for 32 years.

He was an avid softball player and enjoyed golfing, bowling, annual mountain hunting trips to Potter County and was a car show enthusiast.

He is survived by his wife; two daughters, Shannon Roop (Steven) of West Grove and Tracy Thomas (William) of Middletown, Del.; one son, Chris Honeycutt (Nicole) of Townsend, Del.; five grandchildren, Landon Roop, Will Thomas, Meghan Thomas, Jackson Honeycutt and Colton Honeycutt; seven siblings, Dorothy Negron of Avondale, Betty Lou Hersh of Quarryville, Rusty Hersh of Buena, NJ, Joseph Sierra (Kelly) of Oxford, Anita Sierra of Oxford, Joyce Krauss (Leeroy) of Nottingham, Diana Sierra of Smyrna, Amanda Jones of New Providence, Alberto (Poppy) Coleman of NJ; and stepmother, Francis Way. He was also survived by many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by nine siblings, Albert, Carol, Sylvia, James, Gerald “Snap”, Harry, David, Kevin and Jimmy Dean.

Funeral services were held on Oct. 6 at the Edward L. Collins, Jr. Funeral Home, Inc. in Oxford.

Interment will be private.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in the name of Landon Roop at Citadel Credit Union.

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

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

Hazel Craig Gander passed away on Oct. 5 at Jenners Pond Assisted Living in Jennersville. She was 99.

Hazel Craig was born in Brockton, Mass. on May 24, 1921 to Edgar and Olive Craig of North Easton, where she then grew up.

Hazel was an excellent student, and learned the piano well enough to get a job playing at a ballet school as a high school student. She graduated as valedictorian from Oliver Ames High School in 1938.

Growing up, she and her family spent their summers in Harwichport on Cape Cod and she always loved the seashore.

After high school, Hazel entered Wellesley College where she majored in English literature and participated on the crew team, the college choir, and the drama society.

While at Wellesley she met Fred Gander, a student at MIT. Upon their graduations in 1942, Hazel and Fred, then an Ensign in the U.S. Navy, were married in the Unity Church in North Easton. Soon afterward, Fred was assigned to the Naval Air Station in San Diego, and Hazel moved across the country. She worked at the Navy base until the birth of her first son, Frederick, Jr. (Rick) in 1943. When Fred Sr. was sent to Hawaii, Hazel and Rick returned to North Easton for the duration of Fred’s naval service.

After the war, Fred returned to MIT for graduate school and the family lived in Belmont, MA near MIT. After earning his masters degree, Fred took a job with the DuPont Company and the family moved to Kearny, N.J., where their second son, Craig was born in 1948.

When Fred was transferred to Wilmington, Del., the family moved to the Wilmington area where their third son, Carl, was born in 1951. After three years there, the Gander family moved to the Buffalo, N.Y. area, and then, in 1962, they moved back to Kennett Square where they lived for many years until Fred retired from DuPont.

While living in the Kennett area Hazel was active in tutoring adults in English (ESL). She also worked as a tour guide at Longwood Gardens, utilizing her longtime interest in and knowledge of horticulture.

Hazel was a wonderful, loving and devoted wife, mother and grandmother and all her surviving family miss her deeply.

Hazel was predeceased by her brothers Ed and Bill, and sister Evelyn, and her late husband Fred Gander.

She is survived by her three sons and their spouses, Rick and Candy of Newton, MA, Craig and Fran of Denver, CO, and Carl and Gail of Raphine, VA, and by 9 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren.

Her service and burial will be held privately.

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

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

Donna R. Smith, a resident of Nottingham, passed away on Sept. 30 at Jennersville Regional Hospital in West Grove. She was 58.

She was the wife of Steven V. Smith, with whom she shared 42 years of marriage.

Born in West Chester, she was the daughter of the late Laverne and Darlene Trivitt Barlow.

Donna was employed with Pocopson Home and Kendal Crosslands as a certified nursing assistant.

She enjoyed crocheting and making blankets for her children. Donna was a devoted mother and loved her children.

She is survived by her husband; three daughters, Amanda Smith of Nottingham, Maranda Johnson (Richard) of Oxford and Jessica Armstrong (Jayme) of Lewistown; one son, Steven V. Smith, Jr (Alyssa Marino) of Oxford; 7 grandchildren, Michael, Mason, Jackson, Gavin, Ricky, Evan and AJ; two great-granddaughters, Avianna and Alaya; two brothers, Dwayne Barlow of West Grove and Keith Barlow of Mt. City, TN; and three sisters, Freida Moore of Cochranville, Tammy Snyder of Landenberg and Robin Roberts of Butler, TN. Services are private.

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

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

GEORGE D. HARRIS George Harris, age 73, of Parkesburg, Pa., passed away on Oct. 7 at his residence.

He was the husband of Rita J. Laws Harris who passed away in 2004, and with whom he shared 33 years of marriage.

Born in Wilmington, Del., he was the son of the late Lawrence W. Harris and the late Margaret Davis Harris.

George was a pathologist technician at New Bolton Center in Kennett Square for 24 years, retiring in 2014.

He enjoyed riding horses and going to Nebraska and doing cattle drives, and being with his family and friends, especially his grandchildren.

He had a passion for horses. He got his first horse when he was 13 and had horses all of his life. Next to his family, horses were his life.

He is survived by one son, Shawn Harris of Cochranville, Pa.; one daughter, Shannon Osborne of Parkesburg, Pa.; one brother, Thomas W. Harris of Atlanta, GA and three granddaughters, Brianna Lynn Osborne, Brooke Elizabeth Osborne and Kelsey Marie Osborne.

You are invited to visit with his family and friends from noon to 1 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 15 at the Kuzo Funeral Home, 250 West State Street in Kennett Square.

His Memorial service will follow at 1 p.m.

Burial will be private.

In lieu of flowers, a contribution may be made to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, 100 N. 20th Street, Suite 405, Philadelphia, PA 19103.

To view his online tribute and to share a memory with his family, please visit www.kuzoandfoulkfh.com.

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Chester County Press

Obituaries VINCENZI MARTELLI Vincenzi “James” Martelli, a resident of Kennett Square, passed away on Oct. 1 at the Chester County Hospital. He was 93.

He was the husband of the late Erma (Farmer) Martelli.

Born on July 27, 1927 in Kennett Square, he was the son of the late Luca and Josephine (Galante) Martelli.

James attended St. Patrick’s School and later graduated from Kennett High School. Following high school, he served in the Merchant Marines.

He then entered into the family mushroom business, Luca Martelli and Sons, which he owned and operated along with his father and brothers.

James was a member of St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Kennett Square and also belonged to the Italian American Club and Sons of Italy in Kennett Square. In his free time, James enjoyed hunting and fishing.

James is survived by his children, Luke Martelli (and wife Mary Alice), Patricia M. Kilpatrick (and her late husband Randy), and Donna M. Jenkins (and her husband Dave); his grandchildren, Victoria Martelli, Christine Powers (and her husband Kevin), Shawn Kilpatrick (and his wife Rebekah), and Alex Jenkins (and his wife Melissa); his great-grandchildren, Lucas, Milo, Colin, Riley, Zach, Trey, Lily, and Emmett.

He is also survived by his close friend Christine Barczak.

In addition to his wife and parents, James is preceded in death by his siblings, Gilda, Anthony, Rose, Louise, and Daniel.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, all services will be private.

Interment will be at St. Patrick’s Cemetery in Kennett Square. Please visit the online memorial by going to www. kuzoandfoulkfh.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.

MARGARET CATHERINE KEELS Kennett Square resident Margaret Catherine Keels, 85, passed away on Oct. 4 at Jennersville Hospital.

Margaret was the wife of Aaron S. Keels, with whom she shared 36 years of love and happiness.

Born in Philadelphia in 1935, Margaret was the daughter of the late John McCrohan and the late Margaret Bannon McCrohan.

Margaret was a caring person who was easy to love. She had a huge heart and was very charitable, often donating to organizations such as St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital.

Margaret was passionate about traveling and enjoyed any time she spent by the ocean. She loved animals, flowers and had a great eye for home décor. Most importantly, Margaret deeply loved her family. She was a wonderful wife, fantastic mother and adoring “Grammy” to her grandkids and great-grandkids.

In addition to her husband, Aaron, Margaret is survived by her daughters, Ann Marie Brown, Deborah Gaeto and Eileen Johnson; her son, Clive Johnson; 8 grandchildren; 8 great grandchildren; as well as many nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by her siblings, John McCrohan, Jr., Loretta O’Rourke and Gerald McCrohan.

Services were held on Oct. 10 at Kuzo Funeral Home in Kennett Square.

Interment will take place at a later date at Washington Crossing National Cemetery.

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

FREDERICK HARPER TAYLOR, JR. Frederick (Rick) Harper Taylor, Jr., of Lincoln University, Pa., passed away on Sept. 19 at Christiana Hospital. He was 69.

Rick was born June 29, 1951 in West Chester, Pa. to the late Frederick (Sr.) and Constance Taylor.

He was the oldest of four children, Cathy, Cindy and David.

Rick attended Temple University and was a graduate of Unionville High School and Goldey-Beacom College in Wilmington, Del. Earlier this year, Rick retired from Taylor’s Service Center in Chadds Ford, Pa., after more than 50 years. He

ELLA JEAN ROSS Ella Jean Ross, a resident of Kennett Square, passed away on Oct. 8 at Chester County Hospital. She was 80.

Born in 1940 in Mouth of Wilson, VA, Ella was the daughter of the late Eugene Haldaway and the late Flora (Holloway) Haldaway.

For over 43 years, Ella enjoyed her time working at Landhope Farms.

Ella was a hard worker who deeply loved her family.

She was a longtime member of First Baptist Church in Kennett Square and was involved with many church activities. Ella was a quiet woman and though she may not have had much to say, she certainly always had a smile on her face.

Ella is survived by her son, Michael Ross; her stepson, Robert Ross, Jr.; her daughters, Rebecca Yakscoe, Robin Hawkes, Carol Waltz, Susan Moore and Joan Shupe; her stepdaughter, Peggy Darnell; her brother, Bruce Haldaway; several grandchildren and many great grandchildren.

Ella was predeceased by her husband, Robert Edward Ross, Sr.; her step-daughter, Joanne Wilson; her brother, Roy Haldaway; and her sister, Ann Radcliffe.

You are invited to visit with Ella’s family on Friday, Oct. 16 from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. at Kuzo Funeral Home, 250 W. State Street in Kennett Square.

Services will begin at 3 p.m. and, due to COVID-19 restrictions on large gatherings, will be by invitation only.

Interment will be private.

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

first worked at the car repair shop with his father and then owned and operated the business with his brother.

As much as Rick enjoyed the business and his customers, his first loves were his wife, Elizabeth, and his five children, Frederick Taylor III (Laura), Leah Somers (Todd), Sarah Hillen (Curtis), William Taylor (Dawn) and Christine Vanella (Nick), and eight grandchildren.

He and Beth were married 46 years. He lived his life for his family and was loved by all who knew him.

A private Celebration of Life service will be held, and he will be buried at Brandywine Baptist Church cemetery, beside his mother and father. Arrangements are being handled by Kuzo Funeral Home of Kennett Square.

Memorial donations can be made to the West Grove Fire Company EMS, PO Box 201, West Grove, PA 19390, or the American Cancer Society.

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CHESTER COUNTY PRESS

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 14, 2020

Chester County Press

Local News Tower Health marks Breast Cancer Awareness Month October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and Tower Health is educating women about the importance of scheduling their annual mammogram.

Regular mammograms are critical for the early detection of breast cancer. That is why it is so important that women do not delay a mammogram.

Detecting breast cancer in its earliest stages gives women the best chance for effective treatment.

The award-winning, highquality breast health and imaging services offered

by Tower Health’s hospitals can help identify breast issues before they become larger health problems.

According to the American Cancer Society, an estimated 12,180 women in Pennsylvania will be diagnosed with breast cancer this year.

“Mammograms can save lives,” said Shavitri A. Mahendiran, M.D., a diagnostic radiologist at

Courtesy photos

“Mammograms can save lives,” said Shavitri A. Mahendiran, M.D., a diagnostic radiologist for Brandywine Hospital Women’s Imaging Center.

the Brandywine Hospital Women’s Imaging Center.

“Because we know early diagnosis leads to the most effective treatments for patients, it is important to perform monthly self-exams and receive an annual mammogram beginning at age 40.”

Brandywine Hospital is a nonprofit, 171-bed

Located in Chester County, Pa., and a member of Tower Health, Brandywine Hospital is a nonprofit, 171-bed acutecare hospital with private rooms that has been providing high-quality, compassionate care in the community for more than 100 years.

acute-care hospital with private rooms that has been providing high-quality, compassionate care in the community for more than 100 years.

The hospital’s key services include cardiology, emergency medicine,

orthopedics, behavioral health (adult, older adult), general and robotic surgery, specialized care for eating disorders, and outpatient services (radiology/women’s imaging, laboratory, cardio- pulmonary, occupational, physical and speech

therapy, primary care, and wound care). Fully accredited by The Joint Commission, Brandywine Hospital is also an accredited Chest Pain Center by the American Academy of Cardiology and the recipient of The Joint

Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval for excellence in acute myocardial infarction, hip replacement, knee replacement, stroke, and wound care. For more information, visit www. brandywine.towerhealth. org.

The estimated amount of revenue to be derived from the earned income tax for residents and nonresidents is: $1,660,134.00. The estimated amount of revenue to be derived from the earned income tax for open space, and which must be used according to the parameters set by Act 115 of 2013, is: $234,375.00. The proposed ordinance is available for public inspection during regular business hours at London Grove Township Municipal Building, 372 Rose Hill Road, West Grove, PA, the Chester County Law Library, West Chester, PA and the Chester County Press, 144 S. Jennersville Road, West Grove, PA, 19390. Kenneth Battin, Manager,London Grove Township 10p-7-3t

estate of the decedent to make known the same and all persons indebted to the decedent to make payment without delay to BRIAN COMBS, EXECUTOR, c/o Nancy W. Pine, Esq., 104 S. Church St., West Chester, PA 19382, Or to his Attorney: NANCY W. PINE, PINE & PINE, LLP, 104 S. Church St., West Chester, PA 19382 10p-14-3t

Legals BID NOTICES

Kennett High School Front Step Improvements The Kennett Consolidated School District (KCSD) is soliciting bids for Improvements to Kennett High School (KHS) Steps. The KHS Steps are an architecturally and historically significant exterior monumental masonry stair structure at the main entrance to the school. Improvements include but are not limited to removal of existing limestone and brick veneers and masonry substructure; provide new concrete masonry unit substructure and new cast stone and brick veneers; removal and reinstallation of existing granite treads and pavers; removal and replacement of concrete paved landings; drainage improvements; and lighting improvements. There will be separate bids for General, Mechanical, Plumbing and Electrical Construction.

Bid documents will be available in PDF format starting Monday, October 12, 2020. Bid documents can be obtained through the KCSD Office at 300 East

South Street, Kennett Square, PA 19348. There is a non-refundable $20 fee for bid documents. Checks are to be made out to KCSD. There will be a mandatory Pre-Bid Conference on Tuesday, October 27 at 4:15 PM at the Kennett High School, 100 East South Street, Kennett Square, Pennsylvania 19348. Bids are due no later than 3PM on Thursday, November 19, 2020 at the KCSD Office at 300 East South Street, Kennett Square, PA 19348. See the district website for additional details.

Mary D. Lang Kindergarten Center Improvements The Kennett Consolidated School District (KCSD) is soliciting bids for exterior improvements at the Mary D. Lang Kindergarten Center. Improvements include but are not limited to removal and replacement of existing windows, doors, and curtain wall systems; new windows in existing walls; removal and replacement of exterior downlight and pole light fixtures; new downlight and pole light fixtures; new landscaping and hardscaping; removal and replacement of existing retaining wall, exterior stairs and exterior ramp. There will be

separate bids for General Construction and Electrical Construction. Bid documents will be available in PDF format starting Monday, October 12, 2020. Bid documents can be obtained through the KCSD Office at 300 East South Street, Kennett Square, PA 19348.

There is a non-refundable $20 fee for bid documents. Checks are to be made out to KCSD. See the district website for additional details. There will be a mandatory Pre-Bid Conference on Monday, October 26 at 4:00 PM at the Mary D. Lang Kindergarten Center, 409 Center Street, Kennett Square, Pennsylvania 19348. Bids are due no later than 3pm Wednesday November 18, 2020 at the KCSD Office at 300 East South Street, Kennett Square, PA 19348.

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PUBLIC NOTICE

Notice is hereby given that the Board of Supervisors of London Grove Township, during its regular meeting on Wednesday, November 4, 2020 at 7:00 p.m. at the London Grove Township Municipal Building, 372 Rose Hill Road, West Grove, PA 19390, will

conduct a public hearing to consider the enactment of an Earned Income Tax Ordinance with the following title and summary:AN ORDINANCE OF LONDON GROVE TOWNSHIP, CHESTER COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA, AMENDING THE LONDON GROVE TOWNSHIP CODE OF ORDINANCES, CHAPTER 24, PART 2 “EARNED INCOME AND NET PROFITS TAX”, SECTION 24-202 “IMPOSITION OF TAX”, TO AMEND THE RATE OF TA X FOR THE GENERAL PURPOSE RESIDENT TAX, OPEN SPACE MUNICIPAL RESIDENT TAX, AND GENERAL PURPOSE MUNICIPAL NONRESIDENT TAX. Pursuant to the Local Tax Enabling Act, 53 P.S. §6924.101 et seq., notice is given that the substantial nature of the ordinance is to increase the already imposed earned income tax for both residents and nonresidents of the Township from .50% to .625%, and to decrease the already imposed earned income tax for open space for residents from .25% to .125%. The Board of Supervisors intends to increase the tax rate in order to increase revenue for the Township.

ESTATE NOTICE

ESTATE OF FLORENCE M. COMBS a/k/a FLORENCE MAY NEFF COMBS, DECEASED. Late of London Grove 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

NON-PROFIT INCORPORATION NOTICE

HAMAZKAYIN ARMENIAN EDUCATIONAL AND CULTURAL SOCIETY, INC., a Nonprofit Corporation organized under the laws of the state of Massachusetts, has applied for registration in Pennsylvania under the provisions of Chapter 4 of the Associations Code. The address of its principal office under the laws of the jurisdiction of formation is 80 Bigelow Ave., #204, Watertown, MA 02472 and the address of its proposed registered office in this Commonwealth is 215 Shoreline Dr., Berwyn, PA 19312.

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WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 14, 2020

CHESTER COUNTY PRESS

5B

Chester County Press

Local News Chester County schedules tree seedling giveaway Events are scheduled on Oct. 16 at Warwick County Park and in East Marlborough Township; An Oct. 17 event takes place at Exton Park COVID-19 may have forced the cancelation of Earth Day celebrations back in April, but taking care of the environment and preserving the planet is a year-round goal in Chester County. As a result, Earth Day celebrations are continuing into the fall, as the Chester County Conservation District and Chester County Parks & Preservation give away

seedling trees to County residents.

Tree giveaways on Friday, Oct. 16 will take place simultaneously from noon to 5 p.m. at Willowdale Veterinary Center in Kennett Square (property adjacent to East Marlborough Township building) and at Warwick County Park near Pottstown.

A second tree giveaway will be held on Saturday,

Oct. 17 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Exton Park.

“Chester County’s recognition of Earth Day 2020 earlier this year was planned to be bigger than ever before, with events and volunteer opportunities happening throughout the region,” said Chris Strohmaier, director of the Chester County Conservation District. “But the COVID-19 pandemic and the stay-at-home orders

in April prevented all public events from taking place.

So, rather than cancel, Chester County reorganized and rescheduled some of the celebrations, including this tree giveaway.”

A variety of trees will be available including a mix of maples, birches, redbuds, poplars, sycamores and oaks. The trees are available while supplies last with a limit of one tree per family.

Friday, October 16 Willowdale Veterinary Center 717 Unionville Road, Kennett Square 19348 Noon to 5 p.m.

Warwick County Park 191 County Park Road, Pottstown, 19465 Noon to 5 p.m.

Saturday, October 17 Exton Park 132 Church Farm Lane, Exton 19341 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Stroud Water Research Center celebrates The Redford Center 2020 Stroud Award for Freshwater Excellence was bestowed upon The Redford Center through a virtual celebration More than 120 guests virtually joined the Stroud Water Research Center, its board of directors, and the presenting sponsor, Wilmington Trust, at the 18th annual Water’s Edge gala as they honored The Redford Center.

On behalf of The Redford Center, Jill Tidman, its executive director, accepted the Stroud Award for Freshwater Excellence in recognition of The Redford Center’s dedication and determination to protect the environment and fresh water.

Executive director David Arscott, Ph.D. commented after the event, “We are so

grateful for the many sponsors and guests who support the Stroud Center and its mission, and who have helped us distinguish others in pursuit of freshwater excellence. We are fortunate to be able to recognize organizations such as The Redford Center, which works so hard to protect our nation’s resources and give it a voice. The Redford family, and the center they created, are a perfect example of how people can make a difference in this world by inspiring others.”

Co-founded in 2005 by the actor and director Robert Redford and his son, James Redford, The

Redford Center uses the power of film and media to engage people through inspiring stories to environmental action. The Redford Center draws on the family’s multi-generational expertise in filmmaking and activism to produce, fund, and fiscally sponsor productions that show stories of individuals taking action to protect and restore the planet. The Redford Center works with changemaking organizations to lead community engagement campaigns that spark conversation and galvanize environmental action.

Since its inception in 2003, The Water’s Edge has fea-

tured an impressive list of individuals who have made noteworthy contributions to the world of science, fresh water, and conservation.

Previous Stroud Award for Freshwater Excellence recipients have included Chad Pregracke of Living Lands & Water; Bob Irvin of American Rivers; His Serene Highness Prince Albert II of Monaco; National Park Service and its director, Jonathan Jarvis; Alexandra Cousteau; Robert F. Kennedy Jr. of Waterkeeper Alliance; Drs. Jane Lubchenco and Kathryn Sullivan of National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration; Dr. John

Briscoe; and Olivia NewtonJohn and “Amazon” John Easterling.

Stroud Water Research Center seeks to advance knowledge and stewardship of freshwater systems through global research, education, and restoration and to help businesses, landowners, policymakers, and individuals make informed decisions that affect water quality and availability around the world. Stroud Water Research Center is an independent, 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization and is recognized as a global leader in the field of freshwater science, environmental education, and

Photo courtesy Harvey Kelly

Jill Tidman, executive director of The Redford Center and award recipient of the Stroud Award for Freshwater Excellence.

watershed restoration, with a secondary location studying tropical ecosystems in Costa Rica.

Delaware County Community College accepts new student scholarship endowment The endowment comes from the foundation created to honor the memory of Matthew LeTourneau, former firefighter and DCCC alum In memory of the late firefighter Matthew LeTourneau, representatives of the Captain Matt LeTourneau Memorial Foundation announced the creation of a new endowment to fund scholarships for qualified part-time or fulltime students at Delaware County Community College seeking careers as first responders.

The new scholarships, announced at a golf outing at the Springfield Country Club in early October, will provide $3,000 for student scholarships over three years starting next year. The Captain Matt LeTourneau Memorial Foundation also has established a $25,000 endowment that will help provide future student scholarships.

“Since the Foundation’s inception in May 2018 following the tragic loss of Matt, our Board has aimed to fulfill his lifelong passion for firefighting and advancing knowledge. We are pleased today to meet our first goal—to carry on his legacy for future generations through education,” said Mary Kury, the treasurer, speaking on behalf of the Captain Matt LeTourneau Memorial Foundation. “As Matt was not only a graduate of Delaware County Community College in 1995, but also an adjunct instructor at the College, we feel establishing this endowment was a natural fit. The endowment will fund two scholarships annually into perpetuity. These were funded by the generosity of many donors, through events and through

individual contributors who wished to join us to help honor Matt.”

The scholarships are for students entering the College’s Emergency Management, Emergency Medical Technician or Paramedic programs.

According to the Captain Matt LeTourneau Memorial Foundation website, www. mattl.org, the foundation’s main purpose is to provide scholarship funding for individuals who either cannot afford education or have a desire to pursue a fire science or emergency response management degree. In addition, the Foundation says, it will provide fund-

ing in the form of grants to help offset the costs associated with either becoming a county or state certified fire instructor.

Philadelphia Fire Department Captain Matthew LeTourneau, a 1995 graduate of the College and 11-year veteran firefighter, was a beloved and well-respected emergency medical technician/ cardiopulmonary resuscitation instructor. He died on January 6, 2018 while bravely fighting a house fire in North Philadelphia and was posthumously made a captain.

In 2018, the College bestowed its highest alum-

ni honor, the Wong Moss Outstanding Alumni Award, posthumously in recognition of Captain LeTourneau’s selfless service.

Courtesy photo

From left, Captain Matt LeTourneau Memorial Foundation board member J.J. Bonsall; Janice LeTourneau, Matt’s mother; Michelle Ciano, Memorial Foundation president and Matt’s sister; Mary T. Kury, Treasurer; Pat Gallagher, Vice President; and Mike Hope, board member. Not shown, Bill Lavery, secretary, and board member Mark LeTourneau.

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CHESTER COUNTY PRESS

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 14, 2020