Chester County Press 10-21-2020 Edition

Chester CountyPRESS

www.chestercounty.com

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

Volume 154, No. 41

INSIDE

Cecil County Life

Wednesday, October 21, 2020

Community Oxford Borough Council prayers for Barry approves contract separation agreement for borough manager Brian Hoover is leaving after serving as borough manager for more than four years

By Betsy Brewer Brantner Contributing Writer

League of Women Voters of Chester County Non-Partisan Voters' Guide.......4B

Wreaths Across America raises funds...2A

Borough Council unanimously approved a separation agreement and release of the current contract between Brian Hoover and the Borough of Oxford during the meeting on Monday night. Hoover was hired as manager in July of 2016, and his current contract would have ended on Dec. 31, 2021.

Although no figures were discussed publicly, two council members, Amanda Birdwell and Ron Hershey, expressed that the approved agreement provided the best terms council could do for Hoover. Both also expressed displeasure that Hoover was leaving.

Hershey said, “I will be voting for this motion only because it provides the best terms for him. He was well

Despite a decades-long battle that pitted its key stakeholders and citizenled initiatives against an alphabet soup of regulaThe Mystery of the Ticking tory agencies in a unified Tomb...1B effort to keep township water from being exported to Delaware, New Garden Township has finally lost its battle against the DelawareOpinion.......................7A based Artesian Water Obituaries..............8A-9A Company.

INDEX

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liked by employees. It will be hard for a new manager to come in. He and his wife became part of our community. He showed up at community events. I think the borough is moving backwards. He found ways for us to save money.

He may not have been a great fit for this council, but he was a great fit for this borough.”

Birdwell said, “I apologize. I feel I should have been more engaged. I think we failed in working with him. I feel bad for being a part of this.”

A number of business owners spoke highly of Hoover and demanded to know why he was leaving.

Randy Grace, a business owner who also previously served on council, said, “I would like to know what he did wrong. He brought our borough budget under control, modernized our

Borough Hall, and our water billing system. He repaired a strained relationship with the police department. He installed LED streetlights all through town. What did he do to cause his contract to be terminated?”

Former Oxford Mainstreet Manager Donna Hossler said she had the same questions Grace had. She also said that she was sad to see Hoover leave.

Business owner Jeff Hamm said, “I concur with what Randy said. This feels like a dagger was put into our stomach and then twisted. Shame on you.”

John McGlothlin, the owner of the Sawmill Grill and Octoraro Hotel, told council, “There is such a division now. We (businesses) feel like we are on the back burner. I cry out to you. We have to make Oxford better. It’s so tense

Photo by Steven Hoffman

A lot of people turned out to wish Barry Hostetter well.

By Steven Hoffman Staff Writer On Sunday morning, a community came together to support, honor, and—above all—offer heartfelt prayers for one of its own.

Starting before 10 a.m., people lined up their vehicles near the Hayesville Garage on Jackson School Road for a prayer ride for Barry Hostetter, a well-liked member of the Oxford community who is courageously battling cancer.

At approximately 10:40 a.m., the prayer parade started and for the next 75 minutes a seemingly endless series of vehicles—milk trucks and John Deere tractors, cars and farm equipment, dump trucks and motorcycles, as well as one tractor trailer after another paraded up the country road that runs right in front of the Hostetters’ home.

It was certainly the longest, most beautiful traffic jam in the township’s history.

The prayer parade included more than 100 vehicles. In addition to the parade participants, dozens of other people lined the route to wave

Continued on Page 4A

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Artesian Water Company given approval to activate Landenberg well

By Richard L. Gaw Staff Writer

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In news that was shared at the Oct. 19 Board of Supervisors online meeting, Artesian received unanimous approval from the Commonwealth Court on Oct. 14, in a decision that stated the Public Utilities Commission (PUC) was correct in declaring that Artesian is a public utility.

The decision now allows Artesian the license to begin extracting more than 200,000 gallons of water per day from the Broad

Run aquifer -- a well the company owns on the corner of Newark and Broad Run roads in Landenberg.

With the ruling, Artesian can not only pump water to Delaware, but to expansion areas eyed for possible development in the vicinity of the well.

In sharing the Commonwealth Court’s verdict, attorney Bill Christman told the board that the township could appeal the decision to the Supreme

Court of Pennsylvania, but said that it is not likely that the appeal efforts would be fruitful.

“Artesian was seeking a certificate of public convenience from the PUC to say that they are a public utility, while at the same time, the township had sought to enforce its ordinances against them,” Christman explained. “[Artesian] appealed those enforcements to the Court of Common Pleas in Chester

County. After years of fighting, the PUC has now said that Artesian is a public utility, and public utilities are not subject to many municipal regulations.”

The ruling by the Commonwealth Court concludes a long verbal and legal battle of wills between Artesian and the township that dates back to 1994, when the water company first applied for permission to activate the well. The Continued on Page 3A

To speak, to educate, to Students at Patton heal: Voices Underground Middle School and Unionville High aspires to tell stories of African American history School will head back

By Richard L. Gaw Staff Writer Sometimes, having the audacity to enlighten the world in the worst of times magnifies its tenacity and urgency to do so.

In this, the most volatile year of racial tension in the United States since the height of the Civil Rights movement of the 1960s, a new organization – supported by a university and a trailblazing local agency -- is laying the groundwork for changing the American racial imagination, simply by opening up the storybook of the African American experience.

Believing that a community can thrive only when all of its stories are heard, Square Roots Collective, in partnership with Lincoln University, launched Voices Underground in the Fall of 2019.

The goal of this project is to promote the nationally significant history of the

to school Monday

By Monica Thompson Fragale Contributing Writer The Unionville-Chadds Ford School Board continues to take steps to bring students and sports back to schools more than seven months after the COVID19 pandemic shut schools down.

Students at Patton Middle School and Unionville High School will head back to school Monday as part of a hybrid plan approved earlier this month by the school board.

When the middle and high school students who have chosen hybrid schooling return to the buildings, onethird of the student body Courtesy Photos will be physically in school Voices Underground executive director Greg for two days, followed by Thompson is a research fellow in African American four days of remote learnCultural Heritage at Lincoln University. ing, according to John Underground Railroad in ships, public experiences, and Nolen, the district’s assistant superintendent. our region through scholarly historical memorialization.

Continued on Page 3A “Our teachers are ready, research, creative partner-

and they’re working together to come up with best practices,” Nolen said.

At their Nov. 9 work session, the school board will discuss a plan to bring kindergarteners into school every day, according to Superintendent John Sanville. Currently, they attend half-days every other day under the district’s health and safety plan.

“While our elementary safety plan is outstanding and teachers are doing a tremendous job, I do worry about our kindergarten students,” Sanville said, adding he worries about continuity.

Elementary school students returned to school Oct. 12, the same day the board held its work session.

“It may be a little bit different, it may look a little different, but it was still the thrill of a first day,” Sanville said.

Continued on Page 2A

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CHESTER COUNTY PRESS

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2020

Chester County Press

Local News Students...

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Also at the November work session, the board will discuss the winter sports safety plan.

District athletic supervisor Patrick Crater said a

task force is already working on a safety plan for those sports.

“Mitigation efforts and restrictions are paramount and very necessary, but they will also make our season a bit unusual,” Crater said.

Referring to fall programs,

he said the athletes, coaches and others have “just done an incredible job supporting each other.

I think we’ve had a lot of successes in our program.

We were able to work with a lot of kids this fall.”

Wreaths Across America raises $1,300

Kennett Square Light Rotary Club donation helps families in need Photos courtesy of Clarissa Sherrow

Practicing for the Cornhole Competition.

Courtesy photo

Gary Pawliczek, the president of the Kennett Square Light Rotary Club, presented a check for $500 to Melissa Pacella of SILO, which stands for Serving Inspiring Loving Others. SILO is a nonprofit that serves families in the Oxford area. The funds from this donation are earmarked for food bank activities helping local families through the current food crisis.

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Wreaths Across America raised $1300 through a competition held by the Oxford Cornhole League at the Oxford Eagles Club.

Wreaths Across America Day is scheduled for Dec. 19 this year. Each December on National Wreaths Across America Day, the mission is to “remember, honor and teach”—and this mission is carried out by coordinating wreath-laying ceremo-

nies at Arlington National Cemetery, as well as at more than 2,100 additional locations in all 50 U.S. states, at sea and abroad.

Clarissa Sherrow, who has been raising money for this event, said over 60 people attended the competition.

The money raised will be used to buy wreaths for the Oxford Cemetery on North Third Street.

The event featured a barbecue and baked goods donated by Tiffany Kirk.

Attending the Corhole Competition to raise money for Wreaths Across America are left to right: Kathy Kirk, Larry Sherrow, Clarissa Sherrow, Dan Fisher and Edgar the dog.

The highlight of the event was a cornhole competition. Attending was John Kitchin, a professional cornhole player from the North East Conference.

For more information or to donate to the local Wreaths Across America, please contact Clarissa Sherrow at 484-645-4513.

Correction The October 14 edition of the Chester County Press erroneously mentioned that a copy of the Oxfordian magazine was included inside. The Oxfordian is a magazine that Ad Pro publishes on behalf of the Oxford Area Chamber of Commerce, but it is not a part of the Chester County Press.

We apologize for any inconvenience this may have caused.

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2020

CHESTER COUNTY PRESS

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Local News Voices Underground...

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These goals are part of what Voices Underground executive director Greg Thompson calls “the healing power of recognition.”

“Even if this current tension were not going on, we would create this organization anyway,” said Thompson, who is also a research fellow in African American Cultural Heritage at Lincoln University. “That we are doing this at a time when the nation is calling for the very thing we’re doing has been an extraordinary experience. These current social crises didn’t inaugurate our work, but it has reinforced its meaning, deepened its urgency and provided a lot more moral clarity around why we’re doing what we’re doing.”

The seedlings that have become Voices Underground began during conversations Thompson had with Mike Bontrager, co-founder of Square Roots Collective in 2017.

Bontrager was visiting Memphis to see the world premiere of a hip-hop musical about the 1968 sanitation workers strike, which was being performed in the dilapidated Clayborn Temple on the 50th anniversary of the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Thompson was part of a team who was in the process of restoring the historic church where King once preached.

“Mike told me that he was interested in doing more to share the history of the Underground Railroad in Kennett Square, and asked if I would be willing to collaborate with him,” Thompson said.

After conducting some research on the subject, Thompson joined forces with SRC to find partnerships that would help launch Voices Underground. In March, Alex Parham was named the project’s managing director.

“I was impressed with the way that he and his team not only were preserving this historic site but how he used theater, art and music to draw people into stories that mattered,” Bontrager said. “It’s easy to understand the appeal of working with Greg, since our goal is not simply try-

Landenberg well...

Continued from Page 1A

application was countered by an onslaught of public opposition, seen most visibly in the large number of yellow “Save Our Water” signs that were posted throughout the township.

Eventually, the company pulled its application.

On June 18, 2013, Artesian’s representatives told supervisors that they planned to connect the well into its existing water distribution system in Delaware, by way of a water main to be constructed along Broad Run and Newark roads.

Representatives told the supervisors that their testing would be regulated by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), the Delaware River Basin Commission (DRBC) and local ordinances, and agreed that it would be subject to township Ordinance 143, which regulates the drilling and maintenance of wells, and provides for well water exportation permit

ing to draw attention to an important part of our area’s history, but that preservation or memorialization serves the greater mission of ‘racial healing through storytelling.’

“Not long after, we began to realize that our area played an even larger role in the underground railroad than we initially realized, which is why we are so thankful to find someone with Alex’s talents, skills and passions and have him join the team.”

Courtesy art

Voices Underground plans to collaborate with other organizations like the new Kennett Heritage Center and the Kennett Underground Railroad Center.

Three Phases of Development Together with Bontrager and other partners, Thompson and Parham are developing Voices Underground in a threephase process.

• It recently completed its project foundation phase that established preliminary research and partnerships, which in addition to the African American Cultural Heritage Center at Lincoln University and Square Roots Collective, also includes informal collaboration with the new Kennett Heritage Center in Kennett Square and the Kennett Underground Railroad Center.

• Now in its two-year project design phase, Voices Underground is currently engaging the community in order to create the framework of its mission -- to tell the stories of the African American leaders in the Underground Railroad movement.

• Once the design concept is in place, Voices Underground will embark on its two-and-a-half-year project implementation phase, which will lead to its Historical Memorialization Initiative, determining project programming, overseeing project construction, and eventually celebrating the memorial to the Underground Railroad through a series of public events.

“One of our first goals is moving our constituents from unawareness to awareness,” said Parham, a native of the Caribbean and a former news reporter in London, New York and Philadelphia. “We would like to create venues, platforms, documentaries, podcasts and interviews and create partnerships that and withdrawal fee.

In early December of 2013, property owners near the well received a letter from Artesian administration engineer Kathleen B. Thaeder, informing them that Artesian would be conducting a 72-hour aquifer test sometime during the first quarter of 2014. In her letter, Thaeder attempted to alleviate concern, informing the letter’s recipients that previous testing of the Broad Run well “over a 96-hour period at a rate of 70 gallons per minute showed no impact on monitoring wells in the area.”

Further, she wrote that the projected rate of water extraction for the upcoming test would not exceed 200 gallons per minute.

On Dec. 16, 2013 and Jan. 27, 2014, several residents came to the Township Building to voice their objection to the return of Artesian in Landenberg, expressing their anger that the company’s extraction of large volumes of water from the Broad Run well would severely impact the

Courtesy art Courtesy Photos

Alex Parham serves as the project manager for Voices Underground.

The development of Voices Underground will bring more public attention, education and significance to events like the Juneteenth celebration.

enable this re-narration of history, so that when it’s time to execute the memorialization aspect of the project, we already have momentum.”

Although the names of Harriet Tubman, Frederick Douglass, Rosa Parks and King have become synonymous with African American heritage, Thompson said that the proper telling of the Black experience in America must also include the excavation of the nation’s most severe scab, that dates back to the arrival of enslaved people from Africa to the country’s shores beginning in 1619.

“A lot of the stories that we tell ourselves about this nation are predicated upon ignoring Black history,” he said. “If you want to tell yourself that the United States is the greatest force

for good in the world, the only way you can do that with a straight face is to ignore the 400 years of essentially curtailing the freedoms on an entire race of people.

“To tell African American stories truthfully requires us to come to terms with some very horrible things that we have frankly been unwilling as a nation to fully come to terms with.”

Thompson and Parham said that while the Underground Railroad movement contains stories that are carved into the country’s unsettling history of enslavement, bigotry and marginalization, there are also tales of hope, sacrifice and dignity. All of them are part of a continuing dialogue that must be shared in order for the dialogue to move the country forward.

“Without imagination, healing cannot happen, and healing is only possible through truth telling,” he said. “America can’t be great, without telling the truth about itself.

“We cannot heal as a community or as a nation until we tell the truth, and we cannot tell the truth until we know the truth. Voices Underground is about helping people to experience and know the truth.”

Together with its many partners, Parham envisions Voices Underground reflecting Kennett Square and southern Chester County as a worldwide, educational hub for those interested in learning more about the Underground Railroad movement, as a key chapter marker in the story of American Black history.

“When I think of ‘voices underground,’ the name has a meaning for me that goes very deep, from an ancestor perspective,” he said. “I am envisioning that the work that we do will honor those voices that have been buried underground, or those who did not have the opportunity to love to their fullest capacity or potential.

“I imagine Voices Underground being the catalyst in establishing a place where people can come and get restored educationally, mentally and spiritually, in a way that allows them to recreate their own consciences.”

To learn more about Voices Underground, visit www.vuproject.org.

availability of water for hundreds of township residents during a drought.

The community-wide rejection of the company’s plans led to the formation of Save Our Water, led by township residents Marion and Jane Waggoner, who soon received the signatures of hundreds of residents who signed a petition objecting to Artesian’s application.

While the township and its solicitor Vincent Pompo continued to contest Artesian’s application by leaning on the strength of its zoning district laws, ordinance compliance regulations and conditional use restrictions, Sen. Andrew Dinniman continued to voice his objection to Artesian’s application to activate the Broad Run aquifer.

In several meetings with and letters sent to statewide regulatory agencies – and in public forums -- Dinniman challenged Artesian’s legal standing, saying said the he considered Artesian’s legal tactics an attempt to skirt

around regulations in their effort to pipe water out of Pennsylvania.

Left with no leverage power, board chairman Pat Little said that the township’s only recourse will be to continue to monitor the water levels of its wells, in conjunction with the progress Artesian makes.

“It did cost the township a lot of money and we continually lost battles, with the exception of one, which gave us a little bit of hope that allowed us to enter into more cases,” Little said of the township’s protests. “It is very frustrating from a supervisor’s standpoint, because I feel there is nothing we can do.

I feel like we’re caught by the PUC, and everything that has gone before judges have been against us and for the PUC. “Legally, I think we have done everything that we possibly can.”

Board member Steve Allaband recalled the yellow signs of protest that appeared in the township in the 1990s.

“I have been involved with this on-going battle for many years,” he said. “One of my biggest fears is that there is not only the well at the corner, but there are four more wells that belong to that aquifer on Broad Run Road. With Artesian now having PUC approval, I guess the sky is the limit.

“It’s pretty scary if you live in that area or nearby, not only in our township but in London Britain Township,” he added. “There are a lot of shallow wells. It’s concerning to me.”

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

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

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Chester County Press

Local News Oxford Borough Council...

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now. We need to move forward. Decisions are being made without anyone knowing why.”

John Thompson, another former council member, told council, “We worked hard to get this guy. You are making a bad decision.”

Council plans to advertise for a new borough manager starting in November.

In other business, council approved Arlene Harris as the interim borough manager until a permanent manager has been approved.

Council also approved Rachel Greer to serve as the assistant right-to-know officer and approved her appointment as interim borough secretary.

In other business, council approved a bid by B.P. Patterson in the amount of $188,434 for installation

Prayers for Barry...

Continued from Page 1A

at the participants and to show their love and support for Hostetter. The Sunday morning display was as impressive as it was uplifting.

Many of the tractor trailers had signs offering encouragement to the Hostetter family.

Love you Barry, read one.

God Bless Barry was the message on another truck.

Another read, Barry, stay strong!

Numerous signs said, Prayers for Barry.

The prayer ride was

of a waterline on N. 2nd Street. This is a continuation of Streetscape Phase 4. The remainder of the project, which includes replacement of a storm drain and paving will be done in 2021.

Council member Kathryn Cloyd asked if this would include curbing and sidewalks. Borough engineer Mark Stabolepszy said the project will replace the road in the same general width it is now and would not include curbs and sidewalks.

Public Works Director John Schaible asked if the stormwater work was removed from the bid that went out due to concern from one property owner, Ware Presbyterian Village.

Stabolepszy said it was removed from this project and would go out with the paving project since they are still working with Ware on the design.

Some discussion ensued about the age of the water line and Schaible explained it was probably installed during the 1950s or 1960s.

Funding for the waterline will come from the water fund.

Grant writer Pauline Garcia-Allen informed council that Econ continues to work on grants.

“Now that the garage is completed, the Borough might want to rethink how they are paying us,” she said. “I will work on a proposal and bring it back to council. It may save you some money, now that we are in a different phase.”

Police Chief Sam Iacono told council that the Oxford Police Department made an arrest in the recent sexual assault case and that will be moving forward.

During the drug drop-off event sponsored by Tower Health and the Oxford Police Department, 50

organized in just five days, according to Buzz Tyson, the executive director of the Lighthouse Youth Center.

The original plan, Tyson said, was to have a few cars and maybe a grain truck drive by the Hostetters’ home. But as word about the prayer ride spread, more and more people wanted to offer their well-wishes to Hostetter and his family.

“I knew he had a lot of friends,” Tyson said, “but when we started planning this, I realized just how many friends Barry has.”

Many people know Barry from his work at the family business—

Hostetter Grain, which the family has owned and operated for more than 50 years. The business includes the Oxford location on Route 10, as well as the Cochranville Grain Elevator and the Mt. Pleasant Grain Elevator located in Frederick County, Maryland. In addition to serving the local farming communities surrounding the three grain elevators, Hostetter Grain buys and sells grain in Pennsylvania, Maryland, Delaware, New Jersey, Virginia and West Virginia. Additionally, Barry has served on the Photo by Steven Hoffman board of directors for the The prayer parade was organized in just a few days. For more than 75 minutes, Continued on Page 6A

pounds of medication was collected.

He also added that they are in the second phase of the civil service process regarding a new hire. All fourteen candidates passed the written exam and will now go through the interview process.

Some Oxford police officers may be sporting a blue beard to raise money for Chester County police officers. Officers pay $75 to participate in the Bluebeard for Chester County Officers charity. The event is held from Oct. 1 through Dec. 31.

Mayor Phil Harris reported that he, Chief Iacono and Corporal Scott Brown met at the Lighthouse Youth Center to discuss upcoming police policies.

The mayor was invited to take part in a first grade online classroom, which he enjoyed. He said he continues to speak with

Emergency Management Coordinator John Reynolds and Oxford Area School District Superintendent David Woods about the rising numbers of Covid-19 cases in the area.

Council approved a motion to grant preliminary/ final plan approval for the land development of Lots 4-9 of the former Ruth S. Coldiron subdivision plan regarding plans dated June 18, 2018, last revised on Aug. 12, 2020. The parcel is divided over the boundary with East Nottingham Township. Council also made a motion to approve a development agreement, financial security agreement, and stormwater best management practices (BMP) and conveyances operation and management agreement for the same property.

Council continues to discuss the borough’s budget and all agreed it is moving

in the right direction. They do plan to continue to make it more user-friendly.

During the last public comment of the meeting, resident Joyce Cook thanked council for terminating Brian Hoover.

Randy Teel, a business ownerr and former council member, reminded council that the pandemic is not over. He asked them to keep that in their thoughts as they make budget decisions.

Council president Peggy Ann Russell expressed regrets for the tree removal in front of the Oxford Hotel, but explained it was necessary due to the fact that it affected the traffic signal.

Council also announced that there is an opening on the Planning Commission.

Interested residents can send a letter of interest to the Oxford Borough, P.O. Box 380, Oxford, PA. 19363 or email to virtual@ oxfordboro.org.

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Local News Prayers for Barry......

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Lighthouse Youth Center for the last three decades.

Tyson said that the Lighthouse has been doing some small things over the last few months to show their appreciation and support for Hostetter and his family. He credited Ron Summers, a founding board member of the Lighthouse Youth Center, for suggesting a prayer ride.

Those who turned out for the event talked about how Barry Hostetter is a positive person who is always willing to help others.

“Barry is the only person that I can say this about. I have never seen him without a smile on his face,” said Charlie Delp, a longtime friend.

Ben Beiler, another longtime friend, agreed. “He’s always positive,” Beiler said.

“It’s a good farm family—a Christian family,” added Tom Watterson.

Daryl Thomas said that his wife and parents both went to church with Hostetterand his family.

He said that Hostetter has always been friendly and willing to give back to others.

Photos by Steven Hoffman Herr Foods was one of the many local companies to have a vehicle Many of the trucks had signs offering encouragement. in the prayer ride.

Tyson also said that Hostetter is a great volunteer. One example is how he will help take the kids to basketball games. He is also very popular when he stops by the youth center to help out.

“The kids are always happy to see him come to the Lighthouse,” Tyson said. “Barry is always smiling.”

Behind the scenes, Hostetter has been an effective member of the Lighthouse board.

“He’s always been one of our most active board members,” Tyson said, explaining that Hostetter

serves on numerous committees and worked tirelessly on the Project Blessing initiative, which resulted in the construction of a new home for the Lighthouse that opened five years ago.

On a personal note, Tyson said that his friendship with Barry Hostetter goes back more than 25 years.

Back then, it was Hostetter who called Tyson to tell him he had been hired as the new executive director of the Lighthouse.

“Barry is one of my best friends,” Tyson said.

Tyson expressed his gratitude to all the police

officers, firefighters, and township officials who helped to safely stage the prayer ride by providing traffic control along the parade route. He also thanked all the participants for helping to deliver a positive message to the

Hostetter family.

Everyone was eager to do that.

Howard Robinson talked about a few of the characteristics that make Barry Hostetter so well-liked in the Oxford community.

“He is kind and generous

and everything a Christian should be,” said Robinson.

“There’s no better man that I know of.”

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

Police officers, firefighters, and local township officials helped out at the prayer ride.

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WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2020

CHESTER COUNTY PRESS

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Chester County Press

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

Opinion Letters to the Editor

Editorial

Kudos to volunteers like Mike Baker The Oxford Educational Foundation recently announced that Mike Baker is the newest recipient of the Randy Sebastian Volunteer Person Award.

The R.S.V.P. Award is given annually to a volunteer, mentor, or tutor whose underlying values support the mission of the Oxford Educational Foundation.

This foundation has worked to help provide extra support to students in the school district for the last 25 years.

Baker is a volunteer for both the Oxford Educational Foundation and the Oxford Lighthouse Youth Center. For the last three years, Baker has mentored a number of elementary school students.

When the Oxford Educational Foundation announced this year’s award, the statement noted that Baker, a retired special agent with the Federal Bureau of Investigation, “believes it is extremely important for children to have a positive role model to look up to, especially during these trying times.”

The statement also said that Baker’s “work ethic and devotion for volunteerism made him an exceptional candidate for this award. It is an honor to have such a loyal volunteer mentor working with the students of Oxford.”

Kudos to volunteers like Baker, who not only give generously of their time, but also remind us all that there are a lot of good people doing good things in the world. It’s easy to get bogged down in the bad news, the Twitter rants, and the screaming hot-takes that are so prevalent on television and social media right now, so it is good to have a reminder about what really makes the world go around.

Would Trump stage an attack on Iran to serve his political ambitions?

Letter to the Editor: There is a danger that President Trump is planning a military attack on Iran to improve his political chances.

Trump’s COVID-19 debacle, capped by his hospitalization, has moved the needle, with Joe Biden’s chances looking better in state after state.

Trump’s call for the arrest of former President Barack

Letter to the Editor: Disinformation is something we all need to look out for, especially during this election season. Our minds have become targets just like our pocketbooks.

We must be vigilant and think critically about the information we receive, even when it is sent by wellmeaning friends. One warning sign can be when the story is surprising or shocking. Bad actors know that information that appeals to our emotions is especially likely to be shared with others. We are all most susceptible when the information apparently confirms our pre-existing beliefs. Before sharing something, stop to consider whether the sender might have inadvertently shared something false. Would anyone stand to gain from spreading this information? Can it be verified by checking other sources that can be trusted?

Resources are available to help detect false information. Snopes.com is a respected organization which researches information being widely disseminated. Topics range from the political to rumors and urban legends. Fact check.org, a project of the Annenberg Public Policy Center of the University of Pennsylvania, and Politifact.com, owned by a nonprofit journalism school, both evaluate political statements to determine their veracity. All three are transparent about their methods, sources, and funding. Another valuable resource is VoteSmart. org, a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization providing information about candidates, including their positions on issues, their funding, votes, and speeches.

Opensecrets.org traces money in politics. Because such sites don’t have the staff or resources to police local news in every community, we should also be supporting sources of good local journalism, including investigative journalism.

Patricia Beitel Landenberg

Chester County Press Publisher - Randall S. Lieberman

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

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board Iranian ships in international waters. He has sent U.S. warships to the Persian Gulf to intercept Iranian merchant vessels.

Iran may not respond to these provocations, but it’s apparent Trump hopes they will.

After boasting to Rush Limbaugh that “our nuclear is all tippy-top now,” he addressed Iran directly: “If you f*** around with us, if you do something bad to us,

we’re gonna do things to you that have never been done before.”

Citizens and responsible public officials must signal their awareness of this danger, in hopes the President will realize that an unprovoked attack would be recognized as an atrocity, and lead even more voters to reject him.

Walt Herbert Kennett Square

Heated rhetoric and impulsive action could spin out of control Letter to the Editor: Recent provocative measures against Iran by the Trump Administration include a ratcheting up of sanctions that are impeding the flow of humanitarian aid – food and COVID-19

relief supplies, as well as escalating naval exercises in the Gulf.

President Trump has even threatened to use disproportionate military force – perhaps even nuclear weapons, in what could be an “October surprise.”

I oppose the use of military force without congressional authorization – as required by the U.S. Constitution.

Neither the 2001 nor the 2002 authorizations permit military action in Iran. I fear that heated rhethoric and impulsive action – and

reactions – could spin out of control, further draining attention and resources from serious crises at home, the pandemic and the economic hardshaps.

Judith A Hinds Kennett Square

Observations about the dueling town hall events Letter to the Editor:

We all need to be vigilant about disinformation

Obama and Hilary Clinton suggest that the steroid treatments have left him mentally unbalanced. He is certainly desperate.

Would he stage an attack on Iran to serve his political ambitions?

Several recent developments indicate he’s considering exactly that.

His rhetoric toward Iran has become more extreme.

He has ordered the Navy to

Watching the competing town hall events and their stark contrasts reminded me of Aesop’s Fable, “The North Wind and the Sun,” a story we learned in third grade.

The story goes: The sun and the North wind quarreled over which

of them was the stronger.

Upon seeing a traveler on the road below, a challenge was issued to determine the stronger as the one who could remove the man’s cloak.

The wind boasted that his strength would easily win as he began to huff and blow a cold blast down at the man on the road.

Into this stiff wind, the man clutched his cloak tightly.

The North Wind blew harder and harder and the man wrapped his cloak tighter and tighter. Soon, the wind blew himself out and gasped for breath. With a smile and a nod, the sun simply began to shine brightly down upon the traveler. The Traveler,

feeling the warmth of the Sun’s rays, unbuckled the cloak and soon removed it himself.

The Fable’s moral and character assignment here is left to the readers’ good judgement.

Joe Duffy Kennett Township

The last thing our country needs right now is a war Letter to the Editor: President Trump seems more desperate and erratic as Joe Biden’s poll numbers increase. It seems to me that he will become increasingly dangerous as his anxiety escalates. I am particularly concerned that he will try anything that he feels would increase his chance of winning the election.

The President could very well believe that his

chances of winning would improve if he were to provoke Iran enough that they would start a confrontation with us. He has already increased the sanctions on Iran, which has further crippled their struggling economy, exacerbating the dire happenings around the COVID-19 pandemic, causing widespread humanitarian issues. He has also recently had U.S. ships sent to the Persian Gulf

to intercept Iranian merchant vessels and prevent sanctioned goods, including medical supplies, from reaching them.

When the President withdrew from the nuclear arms deal, he said he would negotiate a better deal, but that has not happened. The Iranians now feel that the U.S. cannot be trusted to keep its word.

We can all hope that cool heads will prevail and those

close to the situation can help keep the diplomatic channels open to prevent a military response. The last thing this country or Iran needs right now is another war. Enough! As informed citizens we want to be sure that our Congressional leaders will not accept any military action without their authorization.

Betsy Wenny Kennett Square

Speak out against war Letter to the Editor: President Donald Trump recently spoke with Rush Limbaugh and bragged that our nuclear weapons were it “tippy top” shape and he dared Iran to mess with us.

I, among others fear not

only the lack of wisdom in this brash talk, but I also fear an “October surprise.”

As President Trump’s approval rating drops in the polls, his rhetoric becomes more erratic and frightening.

At the same time, the Trump administration has increas-

ingly created a financial choke hold on Iran through sanctions, far exceeding sanctions approved by European nations.

Other Amercian actions threatening military intervention are taking place as we approach Nov. 3. I ask our

elected officials and citizens to speak out against a war with Iran, engaging in and yet another tragic, no-win disaster in a part of the world already suffering at our hands.

Marjorie Herbert Kennett Square

‘Moderate’ voter supports Biden and Roe Letter to the Editor: How many times have you read about a law or bill that passed or failed “along party lines?” I don’t like hearing that. I want more cooperation across party lines, not less. Hyper-partisanship creates stalemates and log jams, much like what’s happening with the next stimulus bill in Washington. Now ask yourself this question: If legislatures are just reflections of the voters, then should we expect bipartisanship from lawmakers who are elected by overwhelmingly partisan voters?

The world is much too complex to lump everyone into just one of two boxes. With

only two major parties, it’s impossible to find one that aligns with all my values, and I’m not alone in feeling that way. Nevertheless, many will vote for candidates from only one party. Perhaps because of strong feelings about the President, some will vote for and against down-ballot Republican candidates based on the performance of just one man, regardless of whether the local candidate has followed in the President’s footsteps or not.

By contrast, I’ve done my research and will vote based on a candidate’s values and ability to pass good legislation in a bipartisan way. I am a moderate, and I am supporting Democrat Joe Biden

for President and Republican Eric Roe for Pennsylvania State Representative. I didn’t write this to tell you who to vote for, but instead to encourage you not to believe the lie that a vote for a local Republican is a vote for the Trump Administration. This is especially true at the state level. Allow me to make my case.

Joe Biden supports redistricting reforms like the bill Eric Roe introduced to get rid of partisan gerrymandering, of which both parties are guilty. Roe co-sponsored a bill that Biden supports, which helps first time home buyers save up for a house tax-free. Roe’s Democratic opponent voted against that

bill.

More often than not, Biden treats people with grace and respect. At the debate between Roe and his opponent in 2018, Roe invited his opponent and her husband over for dinner after the election was over. Joe Biden and Eric Roe certainly have their differences; Roe is a fiscal conservative, while Biden more progressive, but as I evaluate them by their values instead of their political parties, however, they both seem like worthy candidates.

I just voted by mail. Joe Biden and Eric Roe have each earned my votes.

Rev. Dee Doheny Faison West Goshen Township

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CHESTER COUNTY PRESS

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2020

Chester County Press

Obituaries

Continued on Page 9A

DR. LOUIS A. TOBIA

ETHEL WILHELMINA CLAY

CHLOE ANN MILES

Dr. Louis A. Tobia, a resident of Kennett Square, passed away at his residence on Oct. 6. He was 80.

He was predeceased by his loving wife, Rosetta C. Tobia, with whom he shared 54 years of marriage.

Born in Woodbury, NJ, he was the son of the late Louis, Sr. and Florence Tobia.

He went on to serve as a captain in the U.S. Army, where he practiced as a dentist.

Thereafter, he established his own private dental practice in Dilworthtown, Pa., which he maintained for many years.

In addition, he taught Prosthetic Dentistry as a member of the part-time faculty at the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine, his alma mater for both his undergraduate and post-graduate degrees.

After retiring, he spent his summers in Wildwood, where he became known far and wide as “Condo Lou” by countless friends.

He was proud to be a Silver Life Master at Bridge as well as a first degree black belt in both Japanese Kenpo Karate and Japanese Go Ju Rhu Karate.

He is survived by two daughters, Sheri (Ray) Ott of Dover, Del. and Kathleen (Brian) Carmody of Chadds Ford, Pa. and five grandchildren, Connor, Griffin and Devon Ott and identical twins, Brady and Kirk Carmody.

You are invited to visit with his family and friends from 10 to 11:30 a.m. on Friday, Oct. 23 at the Kuzo Funeral Home, 250 West State Street, Kennett Square.

His funeral mass will follow at noon at St. Patrick Church, 212 Meredith Street in Kennett Square with burial afterwards.

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

In memory of Lou, a contribution may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.

Ethel Wilhelmina Clay, affectionately known as “Willie,” passed away on Oct. 12 at The Seasons Hospice in Phoenixville, Pa. She was an 82-year-old resident of Oxford.

She was the wife of the late Wallace Henry Clay (Wally), with whom she shared 52 years of marriage before he passed away in 2013.

Willie was the daughter of the late Harry Paul and Ethel (Raven) Finley of Luckey, Ohio.

She graduated, along with her other five classmates, from Webster High School in 1956 and then she attended Bowling Green University before being swept off her feet by Wally.

Willie worked various jobs to help put Wally through school. She was a devoted homemaker to five children for many years before returning to school and pursuing her dream of becoming a nurse. Willie worked as a licensed practical nurse at the Pocopson Home for 20-plus years, retiring in 2003.

Willie and Wally loved the outdoors and designed and built their dream house in the woods in 1991. She was a talented seamstress who enjoyed creating her own clothes as well as her kids’ clothes. The kids were not always fans of these matching creations, however. Willie also enjoyed knitting and cross-stitching and loved crossword puzzles. She was a member of the Oxford Presbyterian Church.

A dog and cat enthusiast, Willie was very active in Chesapeake Bay Retriever rescue organizations. She raised and fostered many “Chessies” over the years as well as several Jack Russell Terriers.

More recently, Willie loved watching over her many grandchildren and great-grandchildren and visiting with friends.

Willie is survived by her five children: daughter, Kelli Boyd (Dale) of Oxford; son, Kevin Clay of Coldwater, MS; son, Kyle Clay of Downingtown, PA; daughter, Kirstan Clay-Weinfeld (Henry) of Wilmington, Del.; and son Jeffery Clay (Melanie) of Nottingham; 14 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.

She is also survived by her brother, Paul Finley (Elaine) of Washington and her sister, Karen Bauer (Fritz) of Ohio.

Willie was preceded in death by her beloved Wally, her parents Paul and Ethel Finley, and her brother, Jon Finley (Vickie) of Ohio.

A private memorial service for family will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Willie’s name may be made to the National Breast Cancer Foundation (www.nationalbreastcancer.org) and/or Chesapeake Bay Retriever Relief and Rescue (www.cbrrescue.org).

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

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

Chloe Ann Miles, a resident of Durham, NC and formerly of Nottingham, passed away at home on Oct. 4. She was 66.

Born in Nottingham, she was the daughter of the late James G. and Mary Council Harris.

Chloe retired from the U.S. Army.

She was employed as a bus driver for DATA Transportation in Durham, NC. She was a member of the North East Baptist Church in Durham, NC. Chloe enjoyed cookouts and entertaining. She loved her dog, Sir. She is survived by eight siblings, Sara Lomax of Nottingham, George Harris (Barbara) of Nottingham, Catherine Montgomery of Nottingham, Faye Harris of Nottingham, William Harris of Nottingham, John Harris (Audrey) of Nottingham, Linda Wallace of Perryville, Md.; Sandy Harris of Durham, NC; her beloved dog, Sir; and many nieces, nephews and friends.

She was preceded in death by six siblings, Price Harris, Raymond Harris, Reed Harris, Colleen McClain, Lillie Williams and James G. Harris, Jr. A visitation with family and friends was held on Oct. 19 at the Edward L. Collins, Jr. Funeral Home, Inc. in Oxford.

Funeral services and interment with full military honors will be private.

In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory may be made to Venie L Brooks Scholarship Fund, c/o Jane Wilborn, Treasurer, PO Box 65, North Wilksboro, NC 28659.

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.

Hebrews 11:1 The Chester County Press features a dedicated church/religious page that can help you advertise your house of worship and/or business. The page is updated weekly with new scripture. Only $10 Weekly for this space.

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

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

Compliments of

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DENNIS G. BIRT Dennis G. Birt, 78, of Oxford, passed away on Oct. 12 at home.

He was the husband of Carol S. Reagan Birt, with whom he shared 58 years of marriage.

Born in Berwick, Pa., he was the son of the late Alden and Catherine Wozniak Birt.

Dennis was a veteran of the U.S. Navy.

He was formerly employed as a police patrolman, then he became a sergeant and retired as Chief of Police.

Dennis was a member of the Chester County Lodge #011 Pennsylvania #00570 Fraternal Order of Police, Christiana American Legion Post #865 and lifetime member of the NRA. He was an avid hunter and enjoyed woodworking.

He is survived by his wife; two daughters, Tracy Pietrinferni (Dante) of Douglassville and Kathryn Moody (Ken) of Elkton, Md.; three grandchildren, Paul, Nicholas and Rian; and one brother, Gary Birt of Wilkes-Barre.

Services were held on Oct. 20 at the Edward L. Collins, Jr. Funeral Home, Inc.in Oxford.

Interment will be private.

A Celebration of Life will be held in the spring.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the charity of your choice in memory of Dennis Birt.

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

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

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2020

CHESTER COUNTY PRESS

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Chester County Press

Local News Chester County Commissioners announce $10 million fund for childcare subsidies and $5 million for childcare providers to relieve impact of COVID-19 Chester County Intermediate Unit to administer grants to eligible county families and eligible childcare providers The Chester County Board of Commissioners announced two significant grant programs that will provide financial relief to Chester County families requiring childcare services and to childcare providers that have experienced costs related to COVID-19 protection measures. Funds totaling $10 million have been approved for childcare subsidies for families throughout Chester County, and $5 million has been apportioned for the county’s childcare provider needs.

Commissioners Marian Moskowitz, Josh Maxwell and Michelle Kichline approved a resolution authorizing the Chester County Intermediate Unit (CCIU) to administer the combined $15 million in funds. The funds will be available immediately and through to the end of 2020 to eligible county families and to eligible childcare providers.

“The COVID-19 pandemic has created a stressful time for so many parents, and financial worries have further added to the stress,” said Moskowitz. “This fund will

make a tremendous difference to families in Chester County who have had to find money to pay for childcare services that they may never have needed, were it not for COVID-19.”

Both the $10 million for childcare subsidies and the $5 million for childcare providers is funded from CARES Act funding acquired by Chester County government. The Commissioners have appointed the Chester County Intermediate Unit (CCIU) to administer both grant programs because of the organization’s experience in administration of the Commonwealth’s Child Care Subsidy program. The Chester County Department of Human Services will coordinate the program on behalf of the county.

“I am extremely grateful that the County Commissioners have approved this distribution and that we can put the CARES Act dollars to work for our students,” said CCIU Executive Director Dr. George F. Fiore. “In a time that has proven to be extremely challenging for many local families, it is vital that we put

the needs and well-being of our students first and provide this much needed relief to the hardworking families in Chester County.”

Dr. Emilie M. Lonardi, Downingtown Area School District superintendent, shared the same sentiments as Fiore.

“The childcare funding provided by the Chester County Commissioners Office will be instrumental in easing the financial burden the pandemic has caused for both our families and staff,” she said. “We are grateful to our Commissioners for valuing education, for protecting the health and well-being of our school communities and for their continued commitment to serving our great County.”

The resolution signed by the County Commissioners notes that the $10 million in childcare subsidy funds will be provided to low- and moderate-income families.

Guidelines for eligibility include annual income limits, residency in Chester County, reasons for the childcare need, and is open to families with children from birth to age 12. Children with disabil-

ities may be eligible through age 21.

“This subsidized childcare program helps Chester County families pay their childcare fees,” said Maxwell. “Families’ lives have been turned upside down because of this pandemic with daily routines so different and worrying.

Through the CCIU, we will pay the childcare costs directly to the childcare program, helping take away at least one of the major COVID-19 pressures on families with young children – childcare bills.”

Understanding that the $10 million childcare subsidy grant program may result in increased childcare enrollments in Chester County, the Commissioners established a $5 million fund to help childcare providers purchase additional personal protective equipment, make needed changes to their facilities, and provide relevant training and professional development for staff.

Kichline noted, “Providing funding for families to help pay for childcare is crucial, but so too is making sure

Courtesy photo

The Chester County Commissioners announced $15 million in childcare grants for families and childcare businesses impacted by COVID-19. Pictured left to right are Chester County Commissioners Michelle Kichline and Josh Maxwell, Downingtown Area School District superintendent Dr. Emilie Lonardi, Chester County Commissioners’ Chair Marion Moskowitz and Chester County Intermediate Unit executive director Dr. George Fiore.

that the childcare businesses can withstand the cost of any changes needed to be made to keep children healthy and safe. Now, more than ever, I appreciate the service that childcare owners and staff provide, and am pleased that the County can help in this very practical way.”

Funds for both the $10 million childcare subsidy grant program and the $5 million childcare provider grant program are available up to Dec.

30, 2020, and will be awarded while funds last. For more information and the application for childcare subsidies can be found at www.cciu. org/covid-childcare or by calling the Chester County Intermediate Unit at 484753-4305 between the hours of 8 a.m.and 4 p.m.

Grants for childcare are part of a major $28 million COVID-19 funding program approved by the Chester County Commissioners.

Obituaries Continued from Page 8A

ROBERT CECIL DRIVER Robert Cecil Driver, aka Bob, Bobby Cecil, left this earthly realm on Oct. 15 at the age of 82.

He was a native of Kennett Square and a longtime resident of Wilmington, Del. Bob served in the U.S. Air Force and retired from the Newark Chrysler Assembly Plant in 1994. He was a member of the UAW and a founding member of Brother 6 Social Club.

He is survived by his wife, Joyce Ann (Lee) Driver, his daughter, Raylene Driver Hill (Bryan), his grandchildren, Darryl Patrick Driver (Akilah) and Darria Venee James and his four great grandchildren, Karrah, Kylie, Isaiah and Miles.

He is also survived by his baby sister, Maxine Mayo.

Flowers, cards, memorials, etc may be sent to 1120 Jefferson Road, Greensboro, NC. 27410.

EDITH A. MILLER Edith A. Miller, a resident of Lincoln University, Pa., passed away on Oct. 11 at Calvert Manor Healthcare Center in Rising Sun, Md. She was 82.

She was the wife of the late Alvin G. Miller.

Born in West Chester, Pa., she was the daughter of the late Ashby and Pearl Fryberger Young.

Edith was a member of Beulah Baptist Church in Russelville.

She was a board member for the Oxford Golden Bears and instrumental in starting the school’s football team.

Every year, Edith would crochet and donate 300 hats to Divine Sent Food Cupboard and to her church to be sent to other countries.

She enjoyed playing bingo, traveling with friends and especially loved crocheting and spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

She is survived by her three children, Geroldine Vanderhoef of Annville, Alvin G. Miller, Jr. (Vera) of Lincoln University and Robert A. Miller (Sue) of Nottingham; six grandchildren; and nine great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by a daughter, Helen Ann Hess and two brothers, Charles A. Young and Haywood E. Young.

Services are private.

In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory may be made to Divine Sent Food Cupboard, 198 Barnsley Rd., Oxford, PA 19363.

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

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

chestercounty.com ONLINE ALL THE TIME NEWS • SCHOOLS ENTERTAINMENT • BUSINESS SPORTS • HOME & GARDEN

JOSEPH RANDY FISHER Joseph “Randy” Fisher died unexpectedly in his home in Oxford on Oct. 10. He was 51.

Randy is survived by his parents, Joseph and Gayle Fisher; his wife, Christine Blithe Fisher; their children, Joseph and Matthew, all of Oxford; and a sister, Vicky Sherman, of Chadds Ford, Pa. Randy is also survived by many aunts and uncles, cousins, and nieces and nephews.

Randy graduated from Oxford High School in 1987. He met the love of his life, Christine, in 1987, and they married in 1993. They built a house on the edge of the family farm and had two children together.

Randy earned an associate degree in civil engineering, and most recently worked for MESH Consulting of Eagleville, Pa. Growing up in a small town, Randy was well-known to many. He had a storybook childhood on the family dairy farm, and spent many days with his cousins, most of whom lived within a half mile of him. His cousins tell tales of growing up on the farm, running around in creeks, playing baseball, chopping down trees, family trips to the beach, and participating in each other’s weddings.

Randy was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed sporting clays, hunting deer, geese and bear, and fishing and crabbing.

This summer, he and his family spent many nights enjoying crabs for dinner.

Randy was an accomplished story and joke teller, who was known for his sense of humor and wit. His infectious laugh and smile was appreciated and valued by all who knew and loved him. He was a hardcore conservative and NRA supporter. He loved a good cigar, a glass of bourbon, and watching the phases of the moon from his porch.

Please join his family and friends for an open house in celebration of Randy’s life on Saturday, Nov. 7 from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Oxford Gun Club in Oxford.

The family would like to thank everyone who has reached out to them in this time of grief.

Donations can be made to the Randy Fisher Memorial Fund on the GoFundMe platform.

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

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

Obituary submissions The Chester County Press publishes obituaries free of charge for funeral homes with active advertising accounts only. Others with a connection to southern Chester County are charged a modest fee. Obituaries appear on the Wednesday after they are received with a Monday 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.

WILLIAM V. DEMBOSKI William V. (Bill) Demboski, 83, of Sarasota, Fla., entered into Heaven on Oct. 2.

Born on Nov. 24, 1936 in Justus, Pa., he was the youngest child and only son of Stanley and Stella Demboski.

In 1954, he graduated from St. James High School in Chester, Pa. In 1955, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy as a Minute Man and served as a sonar specialist. He later graduated from Pennsylvania Military College in Chester, Pa., with a degree in electrical engineering.

In addition to creating his own electrical company in his early years, he worked for DuPont, Sterling and Hillrom.

Bill retired to Sarasota, Fla. in 2004. Prior to his retirement to Sarasota, Fla., he was a member and actively involved at New London Presbyterian Church and played guitar for the worship team.

An avid hunter and fisherman, he was a member of The Railroad Rod and Gun Club, also known as the Caboose Gang, for many years. Amid the peaceful beauty of the area’s mountains, Bill had some of his deepest talks with God. He enjoyed golf, traveling, wood carving. Under the name Wild Art Acrylics, he was a local painter of wildlife.

Bill will be remembered for his great smile and sense of humor. A captivating storyteller, he often recounted memories of a humble childhood on the farm in upstate Pennsylvania. He told stories of adventures with his sisters, long walks in the woods with his father, and the ways his mother made him feel special.

Frugal, but very giving, he was always willing to help those in need, and when he gave, he gave generously. He was a loyal Philadelphia Eagles and Phillies fan. He was proud of his Polish heritage and could fix anything. He had a heart for conservation of our natural resources and an overzealous passion for recycling. The life of a party, Bill always made those around him feel welcome. He was a good, good man.

Bill is survived by his wife, Karen; two sisters, Elizabeth Howanski of Crum Lynne, Pa. and Joan Kryak of Morton, Pa. He is also survived by two daughters, Marci Horrox (John) of Prospect Park, Dana Kreider (Kenny) of Kirkwood, grandchildren Shane Horrox (Lauren), Alexis Horrox, Anthony Demboski, Jacob Robinson, Isabel Robinson, Mikaela Kreider and Hollyn Kreider; two greatgranddaughters, Alessia and Faith, numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Bill was proceeded in death by his parents, two daughters Antoinette and Teresa, brother-in-law John, niece and goddaughter Mary Beth and nephew Gregory.

To honor Bill’s life, family and friends are invited to a Celebration of Life service at 4 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 23 at Osbornia Farm, 74 Clendenin Road in Quarryville, Pa. To plant memorial trees in memory of William V. (Bill) Demboski, please visit the online Sympathy Store for White-Luttrell Funeral Homes.

10A

CHESTER COUNTY PRESS

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2020

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Chester County Press

In the Spotlight

Section

B

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2020

The mystery of the Ticking Tomb

By Steven Hoffman Staff Writer The spooky season is upon us and it’s a great time of the year to explore the unusual and the unexplained.

One of the most famous and enduring local legends is the ticking tomb in Landenberg. Tales about the mysterious grave have been shared for more than 200 years. Some people believe that the ticking tomb, situated in a small church cemetery, served as the inspiration for Edgar Allan Poe’s “The Tell-Tale Heart.” While it seems unlikely that the master of the macabre actually based one of his most terrifying tales on the ticking tomb, it is still a worthwhile destination for anyone who enjoys a little bit of mystery—or history. Visitors can put their ears to the gravestone and determine for themselves whether they can hear the steady tick… tick…tick Or, if visiting a ghostly graveyard is just a little too spooky for you, even at Halloween, then you can read about the ticking tomb in books like “Weird Pennsylvania,” “Ghost Stories of Chester County and the Brandywine Valley” by Charles J. Adams III, and “Up the Back Stairway,” which is Volume VII in the Spirits Between the Bays series

by Ed Okonowicz.

How the legend began Okonowicz writes extensively about how the legend of the ticking tomb developed in his book about true Mid-Atlantic ghost stories.

The story dates back to a time before the American Revolution. Royal charters had been granted to the Penns of Pennsylvania and Delaware and the Calverts of Maryland, but these charters sometimes overlapped. At this time, maps were inaccurate and the legal descriptions were confusing, at best.

Residents in small towns like Oxford and Rising Sun were sometimes paying taxes to both the Quakers in Pennsylvania and the Calverts in Maryland because there were ongoing boundary disputes between the two colonies, and there was confusion about which colony the taxes were rightfully owed to.

Charles Mason and Jeremiah Dixon, a pair of master surveyors, were sent to mark out the definite boundaries between the colonies. One day in 1764, Mason and Dixon were working in the Landenberg area and mapping out the route for their MasonDixon rail line when a local youngster named Fithian Minuit managed to grab a portable chronometer that Mason had been working on. The child, who was notorious for eating anything he could get his hands

The local legend of the ticking tomb combines mystery—and a little bit of local history.

Photos by Steven Hoffman

The London Tract Meeting House in Landenberg.

on, crawled into Mason’s tent. One of Mason’s assistants panicked when the baby started to cry and used Mason’s invention to calm him. The boy grabbed the object and swallowed it before the assistant could stop him. Mason, the legend goes, was quite upset at Fithian Minuit that day.

Some versions of the story maintain that it was Mason who put a curse on the boy, and for the rest of his life the timepiece remained inside him where it ticked continually.

Love is eternal While Mason and Dixon gained notoriety—they have their names attached to the Mason-Dixon line—Minuit lived a comparatively quiet life. Oddly, the boy who swallowed a timepiece grew up to be a clockmaker and worked in a shop filled with the sounds of ticking.

Okonowicz writes that Fithian Minuit met a sea captain who had a broken chronometer that needed to be repaired. A friendship started between the two men. The sea captain had a daughter, Martha, and eventually Minuit agreed to take care of her if anything should happen to the captain. Something did happen to him. Within a year, his ship was lost at sea and Minuit and Martha were married.

It wasn’t long before she heard the steady tick…tick…tick in her new husband’s chest, and he explained the strange

The winding roads that lead to the ticking tomb are suitably spooky for one of the area’s most well-known legends.

The ticking tomb is said to the left of a black, heart-shaped tomb with the name “John Devonold” clearly visible on it.

encounter that he’d had with Mason and Dixon as a child. They agreed that the ticking would symbolize the love that they had for each other, and that it should go on for eternity, even after they died.

They were very happy and shared 40 years of marriage before Martha died. She was buried in the New London “Hardshell” Baptist Church just a few miles from the intersection of three states where her husband had swallowed Mason’s prized chronometer.

According to legend, Minuit lived to be almost 80. He died at the gravesite of his beloved Martha, and was discovered by a group of men who were hunting.

They said that he had a blissful smile on his face, and once he was buried, the ticking continued—just as the couple had said it

would because it symbolized their eternal love.

Locating the ticking tomb If you want to find out if a distinctive “tick…tick… tick…” can be heard from the tomb, you’ll have to visit the gravesite yourself.

In order to reach the ticking tomb, travelers will need to follow a long and winding path that leads deeper into the woods and to the ancient London Tract Meeting House. Heading south on Route 896 toward Delaware, turn left on to South Bank Road. This country road will wind down into the woods to the bottom of a steep hill that leads directly to the White Clay Creek Preserve.

The small graveyard that is adjacent to the London Tract Meeting House is a suitably eerie setting. Once

you pass the small stone church, walk to the end of the sidewalk. Once there, the ticking tomb is only about 20 feet away, in the direction of eleven o’clock.

The cemetery is enclosed by a stone wall. Most of the tombstones in the cemetery are leaning over and a good many are illegible after so many years of being exposed to the weather.

The one most commonly said to be the ticking tomb is small and gray and it is flush to the ground. It is to the left of a black, heartshaped tomb with the name “John Devonold” clearly visible on it. While the ticking tomb is not visually impressive itself, the fact that this local legend has endured for nearly more than 250 years certainly is.

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

One of the most famous and enduring local legends is the ticking tomb near Landenberg.

2B

CHESTER COUNTY PRESS

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2020

Chester County Press

Local News Avon Grove Lions Club collect to help local nonprofits

Courtesy photo

The Avon Grove Lions Club held a White Cane collection on Oct. 3, and because of the people’s generosity, the Lions collected over $700 for the sight impaired. All of the funds the Lions collect at these fundraisers will be donated to nonprofit organizations. The Lions expressed their thanks to everyone who donated to this cause, and also thanked Aurora Pizzeria & Pasta Kitchen for providing lunch to them during the day.

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Data Scientist sought

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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 replace-

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ment 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 â&#x20AC;&#x153;EARNED INCOME AND NET PROFITS TAXâ&#x20AC;?, SECTION 24-202 â&#x20AC;&#x153;IMPOSITION OF TAXâ&#x20AC;?, 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.

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 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 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

NOTICE OF DISSOLUTION

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT as of December 31st, 2018, closing Dovetail Enterprises, Ltd., a Pennsylvania corporation located at 602 Vassar Road Wayne, PA 19087.

10p-21-1t

NOTICE OF PETITION TO CHANGE NAME

IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS CHESTER COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA, PETITION FOR A CHANGE OF NAME, Docket No,2020-05763-NC AND NOW, this19th day of August, 2020, upon consideration of the Petition and upon motion of Mattheau Hunter, a hearing is hereby scheduled for : the 7th day of December 2020, at 9:30 am in Courtroom # 3, Chester County Justice Center, 201 W. Market Street West Chester, Pennsylvania, when and where all persons interested may appear and show cause, if any, why the request of the said petitioners should not be granted.

10p-21-1t

NOTICE:

Notice is hereby given that the London Grove Township Board of Supervisors and London Grove Township Municipal Authority Board will conduct a special meeting on Monday, October 26 at 5:30 p.m. to discuss the merger agreement between the London Grove Township Municipal Authority and London Grove Township, and any other business that comes before them. The meeting will be held in the London Grove Township Building, 372 Rose Hill Road, West Grove, PA. The public is invited to attend. Kenneth Battin, Township Manager 10p-21-1t

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CHESTER COUNTY PRESS

3B

Chester County Press

Local News ‘The truth is that we are not alone’

Oxford filmmaker’s documentary explores the electronic voice phenomenon

By Richard L. Gaw Staff Writer “Extraordinary claims require extraordinary evidence.”

Carl Sagan In December 2017, Oxford resident and amateur filmmaker Gary Arnold was sitting in a local library about to read Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol” in advance of the holiday season, when he began to experience a sensation that could best be described as an extreme ringing in his right year.

Using a $5 track digital voice recorder he purchased from a local electronics store, he made his first recording. He played it back and instead of hearing the annoying sound he had heard in the library, he heard a strange, disembodied voice whisper, “Mr. Arnold.” Curious if it would happen again, he returned to the library the next day and made more recordings that revealed even more voices.

Over time, whenever Arnold returned to the library, the unusual sounds came to him.

At first, Arnold thought maybe he had stumbled into the crossfire of secret military communications, artificial intelligence beaming down from satellites, or some other interference around him.

None of it was true, but the possibility of being selected by unexplained entities to be a liaison of sorts had begun interrupting Arnold’s otherwise normal life. He discussed the problem with his wife, Antje. He visited his family doctor as well as a psychologist, a neurologist, a psychiatrist and an ear specialist, all in the hopes of ruling out the possibility that he was experiencing the first signs of dementia.

The diagnoses all came back negative.

Gary Arnold, the married father of two children, was not cracking up, but rather, was finding himself on the receiving end of a mystery he could neither fathom nor solve.

Searching for answers, he eventually found that he was experiencing what is known as Electronic Voice Phenomenon -- or EVP. “It’s an outlandish story

that borders on sheer lunacy and the absurd but it is, in fact, true,” said Arnold, who has made over 850 recordings so far. “I am not into rituals. I am not into ceremonies. I was raised Protestant and before all of this, I simply believed in God, Heaven, and an afterlife.

“Whether these recorded voices represent evidence of the afterlife or the presence of ghosts, aliens or spirits that exist within the universe, I needed to understand why these beings are sharing these messages with me through a world of whispers.”

Using his video camera to record film shot mostly in the Oxford area, he has incorporated snippets of these recordings and his own narration into Subterranean Séance: The Evidence Speaks, a 29-minute film that documents his mind-boggling journey to understand the understand the nature of EVPs, and specifically, its impact on his life. To Arnold said the film serves as both an EVP treasure hunt of sorts to encourage audience participation, and as a facilitator to serious scientific investigation into this paranormal phenomenon.

In his film, Arnold shared the spectral analysis he performed on four separate EVP recordings he made where in each, he asks a simple question. When he asks the beings to identify what type of entity they are, the answer heard on the analysis is faint but still audible: “Aliens.”

In another clip, he asks if the beings are “otherworldly” or “other-dimensional,” to which a voice replies, “Otherworldly.”

‘Makes it hell for voting’ Over the past few years, there have been many instances where these invisible entities have shared information and facts with Arnold, such as knowing the name of his wife, children and family pets. Sometimes, they make their appearance individually, but on one occasion that also took place in the library in the summer of 2019, two voices were heard – a male and a female.

“I decided I was going

Photos by Antje Arnold

Arnold’s documentary is now available for viewing online through gumroad.com.

Shot mainly in Oxford, Subterranean Séance: The Evidence Speaks is partly based on Arnold’s own experiences and recordings of “otherworldly” entities.

Some of Arnold’s recordings have undergone detailed audio analysis by forensic scientists.

to ask them if they could glimpse into our future, which amazingly they said they could,” Arnold said. “So I asked them to describe the upcoming Presidential election.

Remember, this was 15 months ago.”

Arnold noted that the entities described a coming chaos. They used the word ‘urgent,’ and he could clearly decipher the words, “Makes it hell for voting,” which now in hindsight he assumes was in reference to the COVID-19 pandemic, which has complicated this year’s voting process.

“I then decided to ask the real question on everyone’s mind,” he said. “I asked, ‘If all this is true, then who will win the 2020 Presidential election?’ One voice definitely answered, ‘Donald Trump.’ I’ve recorded the same responses from them several more times since that day back in the summer of 2019.

The prediction is consistent with the reports we have been hearing about how Donald Trump will ultimately be triumphant.”

Some of Arnold’s clips have undergone detailed audio analysis by forensic scientists, who equate audio sound wave patterns with that of fingerprints

that can be precisely analyzed by their waveforms in order to prove their authenticity.

Comparatively, photographs can also be analyzed pixel by pixel to determine if it they are genuine or photo- shopped.

Arnold said that when the entities speak, they use a different signal-to-noise vocalization ratio -- quite different from the human voice -- that uses air moving across a larynx to create words.

Despite the hundreds of hours Arnold has spent listening to, recording and analyzing these voices on his own, one question may never be solved, at least in this lifetime.

“Do I know who or what they are?” Arnold said.

“No. Do I suspect? Yes. The word I would use to describe them is ‘ultra-terrestrial.’ These are beings that have perhaps have been alongside mankind since time immemorial, but just out of the range of our perception. My concern is to understand what type of relationship they have to our species. Have these entities subliminally whispered in the ears of leaders throughout human history to perhaps affect our development? What is their real agenda? Are

Oxford filmmaker Gary Arnold has recently released Subterranean Séance: The Evidence Speaks, a 29-minute documentary that explores the science behind Electronic Voice Phenomenon.

they possibly a threat?

“Are these entities the residual energies of those who have lived before?

Again, I don’t know, but whomever and whatever they really are and wherever they come from, these entities speak in whispers, and the key to this research is found in our ability to amplify their whispers.”

While the basis of Arnold’s involvement in making the documentary and his investigation of EVP is to stand on scientific data, he is also asking his audience to suspend their disbelief that the phenomena exists somewhere in the universe.

“This insurmountable truth is what’s real,” Arnold says in his docu-

mentary, “and that’s how we move forward in life – not to put our heads in the sand and hide from the truth, but to stand on the truth and use it to further our curiosity and our place in the universe. “The truth is that we’re not alone.”

Subterranean Séance: The Evidence Speaks is available for rental by visiting https://gumroad. com, for $1.99. To see a trailer of the film, visit Subterranean Séance: The Evidence Speaks on YouTube.

To contact Gary Arnold, email WeAreNotAlone@ post.com To contact Staff Writer Richard L. Gaw, email rgaw@chestercounty.com.

Chester County Board of Elections approves polling place locations for Election Day The Chester County Board of Elections has approved the polling place locations for the Nov. 3 General Election. There will be 192 polling locations opened throughout Chester County that will house all 230 precincts.

Because of the current COVID-19 pandemic, a small number of polling places will not be open for the 2020 General Election.

Voters who are affected by a change a polling places will be notified by postcard.

On the day of the election, signage will also appear at polling places that are not open, notifying voters where to go to cast their

vote.

Chester County Commissioners’ Chair Marian Moskowitz said, “Even with the uncertainties of COVID-19, the majority of our polling places – around 90 percent – are opening their doors to in-person voting for the Nov. 3 election, and for that we are very grateful.”

Polls are open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 3, and all voters in line at 8 p.m. will be able to cast their ballot.

Voters can find their polling places for the November 2020 General Election by going to the Polling Places icon at chesco.org/elections.

“Chester County’s investment in this General Election means that those who vote at a polling place on Election Day can cast their ballot knowing that we have the maximum level of personal protection equipment and prevention measures in place to keep them, and all of our poll workers, safe from COVID-19,” said County Commissioner Josh Maxwell.

The COVID-19 preventative measures in place at all polling locations include: • Signs posted at all polling locations encouraging voters to wear masks and

to practice safe social distancing.

• All polling places supplied with masks for poll workers, as well as Plexiglas shields, cleaning supplies and hand sanitizer. Special cleaning materials provided for cleaning the ballot scanners.

• Extra poll workers staffed at the polling locations to assist voters in line to maintain social distancing.

• Every voter provided with a sanitized pen to sign the poll book, and voting booths disinfected after every voter.

In addition to all of

these measures, Chester County’s Judges of Elections, inspectors and poll workers are also trained on CDC guidelines and Voter Services guidelines to ensure the safety and health of all voters.

“Even during a pandemic, Chester County residents step up to provide poll worker support,” said County Commissioner Michelle Kichline. “Our request for support a few months ago resulted in enough offers to work all of the polling locations we are opening, with others in reserve. We thank everyone who is spending a long day at the polls,

doing their civic duty, so that our polling places remain open, staffed and safe.”

Voters who have requested a mail-in ballot, but decide to vote in-person instead, must bring their entire mail-in ballot package – ballot and accompanying envelopes – to their polling place, where the Judge of Elections will spoil the mail-in ballot, allowing them to vote in-person.

If voters do not bring the mail-in ballot and envelopes with them, they will be given a provisional ballot to complete at their polling location.

4B

CHESTER COUNTY PRESS

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2020

of Chester County

LEAGUE OF WOMEN VOTERS OF CHESTER COUNTY LWVCC, P.O. Box 62, Exton, PA 19341 Telephone (610) 644-5960 www.lwvccpa.org

Non-Partisan Voters’ Guide National and State Political Candidates • General Election 2020 • Tuesday, November 3, 2020 Polls shall remain open continuously between the hours of: 7:00 A.M. and 8:00 P.M.

*If you plan to vote in person, due to the Coronavirus pandemic please check with Chester County Voter Services to confirm your polling place will be open on November 3rd

Election Day Problems? Call one of these hotlines: 1-866-OUR-VOTE (866-687-8683)

1-888-VE-Y-VOTA (en Español) (1-888-839-8682)

1-888-API-VOTE (Asian multilingual assistance) (1-888-274-8683)

1-844-YALLA-US (Arabic) (1-844-925-5287)

Chester County Voter Services https://www.chesco.org/156/Voter-Services 610-344-6410 The League of Women Voters of Chester County is a nonpartisan organization whose purpose is to serve the local community by promoting informed active citizen participation in government and by acting on selected governmental issues. The League does not support or oppose any candidate or political party.

US President

Description of office: Duties: The President is: the head of state of the United States of America; the Chief Executive Officer; and, the Commander in Chief of all military forces. The powers of the President are prescribed in the Constitution and federal law. The President appoints the members of the Cabinet, ambassadors to other nations and the United Nations, Supreme Court Justices, and federal judges, subject to Senate approval. The President, along with the Cabinet and its agencies, is responsible for carrying out and enforcing the laws of the United States. The President may also recommend legislation to the United States Congress.

Term: 4 years Salary: $400,000 per year Note: All candidates who will appear on your state’s ballot are listed below but only those that meet the following criteria were invited to respond to the League’s questions in this guide.

1. The candidate must have made a public announcement of her/his intention to run for President 2. The candidate must meet the Presidential Election Campaign Fund Act’s minimum contribution threshold requirements for qualifying for matching funds, based on the most recent data publicly available on the Federal Elections Commission website.

3. The candidate must qualify for the ballot in enough states to win a majority of electoral votes Vote for ONE.

Candidates (choose 1):

Joe Biden Party: Dem Biographical Info: Campaign Website: http://www.joebiden.com Campaign Email: info@joebiden.com Campaign Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/joebiden Campaign Twitter: twitter.com/joebiden Campaign Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/joebiden/ Campaign YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/channel/UCWNpXitY8eJ-ku6M-v25MKw Questions: Q: What actions would you take to balance public health and economic recovery in the US, both in light of COVID-19 and for the long term?

A: It’s a false choice to think we have to choose between our public health and economy; they’re linked.

On Day One, I’ll implement the COVID strategy I’ve laid out since March – surging testing and protective gear; distributing vaccines safely and free of politics; helping schools and small businesses cover costs; and getting state and local governments resources to keep educators, cops, and firefighters on the job. I’ll respect science and tell the truth, period. And I’ll build our economy back better, creating millions of good-paying jobs. I’ll revitalize manufacturing, build a clean energy economy, and boost caregiving easing the squeeze on working families, providing paid leave, and getting caregivers the respect and pay they deserve.

Q: What is the most important issue facing our country and how do you plan to address it during your first 100 days in office?

A: Pandemic. Recession. Racial injustice. Climate change. We’re facing historic crises; we have to tackle them all at once. Character and experience count. I’ll listen to scientists, tell the truth, and make sure we’re never so unprepared for a pandemic again. I’ll expand the Affordable Care Act, lowering costs and making health care a right for all. I’ll build our economy back better, and make racial equity central to recovery. In these crises, we have an enormous opportunity, if we come together. As President, I’ll draw on the best of us, not the worst. I’ll work as hard for those who don’t support me as for those who do. That’s a president’s job: to represent us all. To take responsibility. To protect the nation.

To unite and to heal.

Q: How will you address racial injustice in our country on day one of your administration?

A: America is at an inflection point. It’s past time to end our inequities and deal with the denial of our nation’s promise to too many for too long. I’ll fight to end the health inequities that COVID-19 amplifies; and give every child the same strong start in life by offering universal Pre-K, tripling funding for Title I schools, and making public college debt-free for most families. I’ll make racial equity central to our recovery, closing the racial wealth and income gaps, boosting home ownership, and investing in communities and entrepreneurs of color – building a stronger, more inclusive middle class for the future. And, I’ll work for real police reform and invest in shifting our criminal justice focus from incarceration to prevention.

Q: What aspects of our current immigration policy will your administration address first?

A: My immigration policy is built around keeping families together. It’s past time to reform our broken system, restoring family unification and diversity as its core pillars. As President, I’ll reverse Trump’s assault on our values on Day One, ending his cruel border policies that rip children from their mothers’ arms. I’ll act immediately to protect Dreamers and their families, and invest real political capital in finally delivering legislative immigration reform, with a roadmap to citizenship for the nearly 11 million undocumented people who already do so much to make our communities strong. We have to enforce our laws, but in a way that’s humane, respects due process, honors our values, and sees the big picture.

Q: What will you do over the long term to ensure access to quality healthcare for all?

A: This pandemic makes clear: All Americans need access to quality, affordable health insurance.

That’s why I’ll protect and build on the Affordable Care Act. I helped to secure the final key votes to pass that landmark law, protecting 100 million Americans who can no longer be turned away or denied coverage for pre-existing conditions, and bringing coverage to 20 million more. As President, I’ll build on that progress with a public option and lower health care and prescription drug costs. I’ll make all COVID-19 testing, treatment, and vaccines free; double funding for community health centers that are so often on the frontlines of care; and much more.

Donald J. Trump Party: Rep Biographical Info: Campaign Website: Campaign Email: Campaign Facebook: Campaign Twitter: Campaign Instagram: Campaign YouTube: Questions: Q: What actions would you take to balance public health and economic recovery in the US, both in light of COVID-19 and for the long term?

A: - Candidate has not yet responded.

Q: What is the most important issue facing our country and how do you plan to address it during your first 100 days in office?

A: - Candidate has not yet responded.

Q: How will you address racial injustice in our country on day one of your administration?

A: Candidate has not yet responded.

Q: What aspects of our current immigration policy will your administration address first?

A: Candidate has not yet responded.

Q: What will you do over the long term to ensure access to quality healthcare for all?

A: Candidate has not yet responded.

Jo Jorgensen Party: Lib Biographical Info: Campaign Website: Campaign Email: Campaign Facebook: Campaign Twitter: Campaign Instagram: Campaign YouTube:

Attorney General

Pennsylvania Attorney General Description of office: The basic duties of the Attorney General, as outlined by the Commonwealth Attorneys Act, are to: serve as the Commonwealth’s chief law enforcement officer; collect all debts, taxes, and accounts due to the Commonwealth; represent the Commonwealth and all its agencies in any action brought by or against the Commonwealth; administer the provision relating to consumer protection laws; and represent the Commonwealth and its citizens in any action brought about for violation of the antitrust laws.

Term: 4 years Salary: $167,838 Vote for ONE.

Candidates (choose 1):

Josh Shapiro Party: Dem Biographical Info: Mailing Address: P.O. Box 22635 Philadelphia, PA 19110 Education: Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from University of Rochester, Class of 1995. Juris Doctor degree, Georgetown Law, Class of 2002.

Campaign website: http://www.joshshapiro.org/ Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/JoshShapiroPA/ Twitter: http://twitter.com/JoshShapiroPA Questions: Q: What are your top three priorities to address as Attorney General?

A: We must continue battling the heroin and opioid crisis that is taking 12 Pennsylvanians’ lives each day. Our efforts must focus on a multi-pronged approach of prosecuting high-level drug dealers, holding pharmaceutical companies accountable and making treatment more accessible and affordable. We must stand up for consumers against predatory lending companies, scammers, and others trying to take advantage of Pennsylvanians. That includes ensuring Pennsylvanians have access to affordable, quality health care. We must keep our communities safe, by collaborating effectively across law enforcement, reforming our criminal justice system to ensure equal enforcement, taking crime guns off our streets, and much more.

Q: The Office of the Pennsylvania Attorney General is responsible for law enforcement and the equal protection of law for all citizens. What do you see as the primary challenges to achieving equality under the law?

A: Throughout my career in public service, I’ve always been someone who has stood up to defend all Pennsylvanians—no matter what they look like, where they come from, who they love, or who they pray or don’t pray to. I have consistently defended the rule of law and Pennsylvanians’ rights against anyone, from high-level drug dealers, to predatory lending companies, to greedy pharmaceutical companies, to the federal government, and more. The laws of our Commonwealth and our country must be applied equally, and that can only be done by enforcing the law without fear or favor. We must also ensure the highest ethical standards across law enforcement and our entire government.

Q: What role will your administration play in reforming systemic problems and supporting restorative justice in our criminal justice system?

A: I’ve taken steps to reduce PA’s prison population and recidivism rate, and to instead focus on data-driven programs to eliminate bias in the system. I’ve also worked with Governor Wolf to form PA’s first statewide reentry council to reduce barriers for those returning from prison. And I’ve created a statewide Conviction Integrity Unit to review past convictions. This year, I brought together law enforcement, union leaders, and activists from across the Commonwealth to pass a bill that ends the practice of law enforcement agencies unknowingly hiring officers with documented patterns of excessive use of force or other misconduct. I’m committed to finding fair methods that will reduce incarceration rates and discrimination.

Heather Heidelbaugh Party: Rep Biographical Info: County: Allegheny Mailing Address: PO Box 23538 Pittsburgh, PA 15222 Education: J.D., University of Missouri-Columbia School of Law; B.A. in Economics and Political Science, University of Missouri-Columbia Qualifications: Experienced trial lawyer with more than 35 years of courtroom experience who understands the complexities of the law, the intersection between policy and law, and how the law impacts the lives of citizens campaign website: http://heatherheidelbaugh.com/ Facebook: http://facebook.com/HeatherforAG/ Twitter: http://twitter.com/heidelbaugh4ag Questions: Q: What are your top three priorities to address as Attorney General?

A: 1. Keep PA Safe-The Commonwealth Attorneys Act states one of the main roles of the AG is criminal prosecutions. This would be my top priority. The AG works with local DAs and law enforcement to keep PA residents safe, including a strong commitment to addressing drug trafficking and the opioid crisis. 2. Put People Before Politics-Restore the AG’s Office to following mandates set forth in the Commonwealth Attorneys Act and perform lawyering for the people of PA versus using the office for political gain. 3. Protect the Mentally Ill-Establish a Blue Ribbon Panel of experts from PA to examine the treatment of the mentally ill, address the current state of mental illness, and more. The panel would

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issue a Report suggesting structural changes.

Q: The Office of the Pennsylvania Attorney General is responsible for law enforcement and the equal protection of law for all citizens. What do you see as the primary challenges to achieving equality under the law?

A: Keeping PA safe has to be the top priority of the AG. The AG’s statutory role is the prosecutor of crime. The AG has to prioritize resources, so scarce resources are used for the highest priority tasks of the office. Crime enforcement, in conjunction with the DAs is the first priority. Crime operates across County and jurisdictional lines, so coordination with multiple County DAs is critical. Investigations that may take years and cost millions can’t be wasted by prosecutors failing to follow criminal procedure.

The AG must take an active role in the management of the office. The purpose of prosecuting crime is to ensure safety, not create headlines. With that purpose in mind, equal protection for all should be achieved.

Q: What role will your administration play in reforming systemic problems and supporting restorative justice in our criminal justice system?

A: As the County Councilperson At Large on Allegheny County Council, I was critical of the operation of the county jail. The Allegheny County jail had more suicides than any other jail in the country. I determined that one county employee had repeatedly failed to process the proper release of a large number of people from the jail, and she was terminated. Each day someone is in jail, it cost taxpayers, they become a suicide risk and lose their liberty unnecessarily. As AG, I would continue to advocate for government institutions to properly run jails and prisons. Jails and/or prisons must be properly run so we have the space to jail criminals, not those who don’t belong there.

Daniel Wassmer Party: L Biographical Info: County: Pike Mailing Address: 1433 Route 590 Hawley, PA 18428 Education: BA - Adelphi University 1983 MBA - Adelphi University 1986 JD - New York Law School 1989 Qualifications: Educator, government attorney and someone with actual knowledge from courtrooms not a self aggrandized aspirational political office seat warmer....

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/groups/2705423013115791 Questions: Q: What are your top three priorities to address as Attorney General?

A: -Major Criminal Justice Police Reform. -Decriminalize Marijuana (and other drugs) shifting to a medical treatment options (someone with a state authorized “license” can sell drugs reaping a huge profit but a person selling a nickel bag of marijuana is charged with a crime - shouldn’t be!) -Stopping the threat of Anti-Trust litigation by BOTH old parties which is used simply as a ploy to leverage “campaign contributions” as a form of legalized extortion against our competitive big tech firms and permitting a real “free market” to pick winners and losers (Note: This is the only time in modern history where companies delivering “convenience” and “lower prices for consumers” have been shaken down allegedly to protect consumers [what nonsense] Q: The Office of the Pennsylvania Attorney General is responsible for law enforcement and the equal protection of law for all citizens. What do you see as the primary challenges to achieving equality under the law?

A: Education and I am the only educator in the field! Secondly Police Reform and I am the only person who has ever worked in a firm handling matters as an FOP outside counsel. In that role I personally saw the negatives of policing as well as people who were honest hard working “peace keeping” officers. We need fewer police and more peacekeepers. I have a plan including a non-confrontational resolution option which PA ought to explore as well as a plan to remove bad officers by removing the “wall of silence” within police departments. Lastly the silencing of people with “atypical ideas” created by the two OLD PARTIES needs to stop! Both of these parties purposefully engage in speech chilling behavior which is detrimental to IDEAS! Q: What role will your administration play in reforming systemic problems and supporting restorative justice in our criminal justice system?

A: That is my number one concern. The PA criminal system is a joke and the incumbent has literally done nothing to address it! He now wants 4 more years. Moreover the other OLD PARTY candidate also simply looks at this as a mental health issue and fails to address: economic issues, educational opportunities, rehabilitation, purposeful systematic discrimination literally caused by the US government, disparity in sentencing, how the justice system operates, etc.. I don’t see that the incumbent has ever held a position ever in the private labor market! Moreover the other OLD PARTY candidate seems inclined to handle election law challenges as a primary function. This is NOT what we need in PA from an Attorney General.

Richard L. Weiss Party: Grn Biographical Info: County: Allegheny Mailing Address: 107 Old Village Lane Bethel Park, PA 15102 Education: B.A. University of Pittsburgh J.D. University of Denver LL.M. American University M.B.A. University of Chicago Qualifications: Admitted to the Attorney Bar in Pennsylvania and New York. campaign website: http://www.greenslate2020.org/attorney_general Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/richard.weiss.1485537 Twitter: http://@RichardLWeiss Questions: Q: What are your top three priorities to address as Attorney General?

A: 1. Save the taxpayers’ money. Reduce prison population by 50%, by not seeking cash bail, not bringing charges merely for drug possession or consentual relations between adults. Only those who are actually a threat to the community should be incarcerated. Others should be diverted from the prison system to programs designed to help them pay their debt to society and reintegrate into the community. Prosecutorial resources can then be directed to addressing violent crime, combating corruption and consumer protection. 2. Reformation of the system of policing. Citizen Review Boards are only a start. Community and police must establish standards of conduct and need special prosecutors for police misconduct. 3. Promote Restorative Justice.

Q: The Office of the Pennsylvania Attorney General is responsible for law enforcement and the equal protection of law for all citizens. What do you see as the primary challenges to achieving equality under the law?

A: The primary responsibility of the Attorney General is public safety, with the goal of attaining peace characterized by a community that is inclusive and harmonious. Conflict must be resolved in a way that restores peaceful social life. This can only be accomplished through respect of all members. The primary challenge now is lack of faith of the community in the police and of the police in the community. Our system of justice is based on the principle that it is better to let a guilty person go free than to convict an innocent one. I would rather take a bullet than shoot an innocent person. Let us develop a system of policing based on that principle. We must refrain from attacking, arresting or shooting anyone not actually a threat.

Q: What role will your administration play in reforming systemic problems and supporting restorative justice in our criminal justice system?

A: My administration will support restorative justice, which is another way of viewing crime and how to respond to it. Restorative justice includes all parties in a collaborative process of apology, changed behavior, repair of the harm, and reintegration of parties with their communities. This process has a better record of reforming offenders and healing victims than simply punishment which has had a low success rate. It also diverts offenders from incarceration to alternatives like community service, but as agreed by offenders and victims, who are more likely to view it as a sincere apology if voluntarily undertaken than sentenced. I support the statements of former Austin District Attorney Ronnie Earl in this video: tinyurl.com/RonEarl.

Auditor General

Pennsylvania Auditor General Description of office: The principal role of the Auditor General is to determine whether state funds are being used in accordance with the purpose and guidelines that govern each use of the Commonwealth’s dollars. The Auditor General conducts financial and performance audits of individuals, state agencies, and organizations that receive state funds, including school districts, state liquor stores, and public employee pension funds. These audits are designed to measure how effectively government programs are using public money to meet their stated goals and objectives. The office performs more than 6,000 audits each year and is responsible for auditing all Pennsylvania state programs that are allocated federal funds.

Term: 4 years Salary: $167,838 Vote for ONE.

Candidates (choose 1):

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ments to pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs), 3rd -party administrators of prescription drug programs. I will lead the design of an audit to assess pandemic preparedness incorporating the lessons learned from the current COVID-19 pandemic on all fronts including healthcare, education, and the economy. Developing data-driven analyses to identify funding gaps in education, I will advocate for equitable funding, universal pre-K, and affordable post-secondary education. I will harness science and technology to create family sustaining jobs of the future and will advocate for work force development dollars to be invested in this sector.

Q: What distinguishes you from other candidates who are seeking to be Pennsylvania’s next Auditor General?

A: I believe the Auditor General’s office can be a powerful tool for progressive change. As the chief fiscal watch dog, I will ensure tax dollars are used with integrity, transparency and accountability and assess the equitable use of the dollars. As a scientist trained to understand the value of data, I will use audit data to generate public policy information to support equitable legislation. As a small business owner and a former Deputy Mayor of Philadelphia, I am well versed in looking for efficiencies to maximize the impact of our dollars. As the former President of the Philadelphia chapter of the NOW and having served on President Obama’s Commission for AAPI, I deeply understand the power advocacy and its role in equitable public policy.

Timothy Defoor Party: Rep Biographical Info: County: Dauphin Mailing Address: 604 North #rd Street Harrisburg, PA 17101 Education: Harrisburg Area Community College, Associates of Arts, Para Legal Studies; University of Pittsburgh, Bachelor of Arts, General Studies (concentration Sociology and History); Harrisburg University, Master’s of Science, Project Management Qualifications: Former Special Investigator, Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, Office of Inspector General; Retired Special Agent, Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, Office of Attorney General; Dauphin County Controller (2016 to present); Former Certified Internal Auditor with the International Organization for Standards campaign website: http://www.defoor4pa.com/ Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/DeFoor4PA Questions: Q: What are your top three priorities in office?

A: 1) We are in a COVID-19 world. Both the federal and state governments are distributing grants and other COVID-19 funding to individuals, small business, and large businesses. My first priority as Auditor General is to make sure those funds were allocated to those individuals and businesses for who they were intended. 2) Work to have a more transparent government. For example, I will work to end political loopholes like the “honor system” that allows state agencies to keep high-dollar, taxpayer funded contracts hidden from the public. 3) Bring in subject matter experts to audit the progress and performance of any new and expensive initiatives and projects to determine how and if tax payer dollars are being spent wisely.

Q: What distinguishes you from other candidates who are seeking to be Pennsylvania’s next Auditor General?

A: My 25 years of experience fighting fraud and waste sets me apart from other candidates. I feel passionately about the need to ensure government accountability and have devoted my career to eliminating fraud from both public and private sectors. I first served the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania as a Special Agent for the Office of Attorney General. I then served as a Special Investigator for the Office of Inspector General. After that I ventured into the private sector as an internal auditor and fraud investigator for University of Pittsburgh Medical Center Health Plan and various federal contractors. I currently serve as the Dauphin County Controller, being the only African American to be elected as a Row Officer in Dauphin County history.

Jennifer Moore Party: L Biographical Info: County: Montgomery Mailing Address: 209 Lovers Ln Upper Providence, PA 19453 Education: Master’s of Business Administration-Grand Valley State University Bachelors of Business Administration-Management, Grand Valley State University Qualifications: Chair of the Board of Auditors, Upper Providence Township Questions: Q: What are your top three priorities in office?

A: 1. Transparency: How many times have you heard a fellow Pennsylvanian joke about the “temporary” Johnsontown flood tax that we have been paying since 1936? How about the the gas tax, or turnpike tolls that are consistently repurposed for other projects? Taxpayers deserve to know where their money is going. Funds should be spent on what they were appropriated for. 2. Covid-19 has significantly impacted our state. Areas like education, healthcare, small business and unemployment have all been affected. It will be very important to audit the performance of related programs as well as ensuring that funds were properly allocated. 3. Combat government waste and inefficiency. I will work to ensure effective use of taxpayer dollars.

Q: What distinguishes you from other candidates who are seeking to be Pennsylvania’s next Auditor General?

A: As a Libertarian, I am independent of the politicians who are making financial decisions for the Commonwealth. As an Auditor, this allows me to be a truly non-partisan fiscal watch dog. Professionally, I have spent almost twenty years in healthcare finance. I have extensive experience in looking for irregularities in financials and insuring data integrity. I was elected to the Upper Providence Board of Auditors in 2017 and have been serving as the Chair of the Board for the past two years.

Olivia Faison Party: Grn Biographical Info: County: Philadelphia Mailing Address: 5522 Spruce St Philadelphia, PA 19139 Education: Queens College - Flushing, NY BA Degree - February, 1985 Major: Biology - Minors: Chemistry; Music University of Nebraska Medical Center - Minority Health Careers Opportunity Baccalaureate Program 1983 Highest Academic Achievement Award - 4.0 GPA - 1983 Oratory Award - 1983 Citizenship Award - 1983 Qualifications: I am a mother, a grand mother and a great grand mother (my most impressive qualifications). I have worked as a receptionist, a legal secretary, and a medical secretary, a lab technician, a computer, math, and science teacher, an analytical chemist and a scientist at the time of my retirement.

Questions: Q: What are your top three priorities in office?

A: 1) There is a desperate need for a third party. I welcome the values that the Green Party Pillars describe - Grassroots Democracy, Ecological Wisdom, Social Justice, and Peace. (I would like to throw in Honesty and Respect). 2) Racist Laws like the Supreme Court’s Dred Scott Decision show how deep racism is ingrained in our society. Unfair laws and practices like voter suppression, purging voters off lists, and long voting lines must end. 3) Quality Education & Climate Change - Growing up, I remember the fog being so thick, you could not see down the street. Upon my return, no one can recall the last time they have seen fog hit the streets of Philly. We have lost a very important regular occurring weather pattern without anyone noticing!

Q: What distinguishes you from other candidates who are seeking to be Pennsylvania’s next Auditor General?

A: I was not groomed to be a politician, however having been blessed with a natural curiosity, and being a highly trained profession analytical chemist, I am well-equipped for the task of problem solving.

The scientific approach enables me to view problems from a fresh point of view.

State Treasurer

Pennsylvania State Treasurer Description of office: The duty of the Pennsylvania Treasurer is to safeguard the Commonwealth’s financial assets, which total more than $120 billion in public monies. The office manages several programs in order to better serve the financial needs of Pennsylvanians. The Treasury Department is also responsible for: reuniting unclaimed property with its rightful owner; investigating loss, theft, and fraud involving Commonwealth checks; reviewing real estate leases and contracts entered into by Commonwealth agencies; and maintaining the Pennsylvania contracts electronic library. The Treasurer has specific duties in addition to the oversight of the Department: serving as chair of the Board of Finance and Revenue, which selects banks to serve as depositories for state money; setting interest rates paid on Commonwealth deposits; and hearing and deciding state tax appeals.

Term: 4 years Salary: $167,838 Vote for ONE.

Nina Ahmad

Candidates (choose 1):

Party: Dem Biographical Info: County: Philadelphia Mailing Address: P.O. Box 40681 Philadelphia, PA 19107 Education: Ph.D.in Chemistry, Postdoctoral Training in Molecular Genetics Qualifications: Policy Maker (Deputy Mayor & Advisor to President Obama on AAPI) Co-owner-Community Development finance business Trustee of Foundation, Grant making Chair-$40MM in grants and Investment Committee: oversight on half-billion-dollar endowment. Board Member, National Organization for Women campaign website: http://www.ninaforpa.com Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/NinaforPA/ Twitter: http://twitter.com/NinaAhmadPHL Questions: Q: What are your top three priorities in office?

A: Healthcare, Education and Jobs: To reduce healthcare costs I will find efficiencies in reimburse-

Joe Torsella Party: Dem Biographical Info: County: Montgomery Mailing Address: P.O. Box 626 Flourtown, PA 19031 Education: University of Pennsylvania (B.A.); New College, Oxford University Qualifications: Current Treasurer of Pennsylvania; former Ambassador to the UN for Management and Reform; former President and CEO of the National Constitution Center; former Philadelphia Deputy Mayor for Policy and Planning campaign website: http://www.joetorsella.com Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/JoeTorsellaforTreasurer Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/JoeTorsella Questions: Q: What is the most important duty of the State Treasurer? If elected, how would you carry out that

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duty?

A: From Day One, my most important duty has been restoring integrity to an office too often marred by scandal: 3 of the last 5 elected Treasurers have been indicted. Upon taking office, I immediately banned the use of middlemen to win investment contracts and introduced Treasury’s first conflict-of-interest policy and Chief Integrity Officer. My top priority now is building solutions to help Pennsylvanians recover from Covid-19 on solid financial ground. We created the Keystone Scholars program, which gives at-birth college and career savings accounts to every child born or adopted in Pennsylvania, and we fight to hold Wall Street accountable to taxpayers, as trustees for our public pension systems and through legal action when necessary.

Q: What distinguishes you from your opponents in the general election?

A: I have spent my career in the public sector, fighting for the responsible use of taxpayer funds in our civic institutions. Before serving as Treasurer, I was the U.S. Ambassador for UN Management and Reform. Prior to that, I was the founding President and CEO of the National Constitution Center and Philadelphia’s Deputy Mayor for Policy and Planning. What these roles have in common is a dedication to the highest and best use of funds, contributed by the masses, toward a common goal. They each require the careful stewardship of someone else’s contribution: to reinforce effective international cooperation; to build a beautiful civic resource for our nation; or to resolve a $1.25 billion deficit and revitalize a vibrant major American city.

Stacy L. Garrity Party: Rep Biographical Info: Mailing Address: 383 Gateway Industrial Park Road Athens, PA 18810 Questions: Q: What is the most important duty of the State Treasurer? If elected, how would you carry out that duty?

A: Candidate did not respond.

Q: What distinguishes you from your opponents in the general election?

A: Candidate did not respond.

Joe Soloski Party: L Biographical Info: County: Centre Mailing Address: 141 Buckhorn Rd Port Matilda, PA 16871 Education: Indiana University of Pennsylvania -- Bachelors of Science Degree in Business Administration -- Accounting Major Passed the CPA Examination in 1985 Qualifications: I’m a Libertarian that advocates for small government. I also operated my own accounting practice for more than 30 years. campaign website: http://joesoloski.com Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/SoloskiForLiberty Questions: Q: What is the most important duty of the State Treasurer? If elected, how would you carry out that duty?

A: The State Treasurer must monitor the revenue inflows and disbursement outflows of the Commonwealth, as well as managing the invested funds of the State of Pennsylvania. My years of background as a Certified Public Accountant lend themselves well towards those responsibilities. Managing and working with people within the Treasurer’s Office is also an important requirement. Having worked with hundreds of clients, over the years, as well as working with my clients’ employees, I will take that operating experience with me to the Office of the Treasurer to make that Office a great place to work as well as operating the Office at the lowest cost and most efficient way possible.

Q: What distinguishes you from your opponents in the general election?

A: I am a Libertarian. My principles are very liberty-minded and I abhor wasteful and unnecessary government. I will be bringing a fresh attitude that advocates for the Taxpayers of Pennsylvania. The position of Treasurer is an administrative one; not one that enacts policy, as does the State Legislature and the Governor. To that end, I will be working to influence the Governor and the Legislature to minimize taxes, and cut the costs of government wherever possible. The budget of the Commonwealth has exploded over the past 20 years and the Republicans and Democrats, who have been in power for more than 150 years, are doing little to curb the runaway growth of state government and advocate for the taxpayers of Pennsylvania.

Timothy Runkle Party: Grn Biographical Info: County: Lancaster Mailing Address: 15 Teakwood Circle Elizabethtown, PA 17022 Education: BS Geology, Millersville University Qualifications: EcoDistricts Accredited Professional, Green Party of Pennsylvania Treasurer (2017 - present) campaign website: http://www.greenslate2020.org/ Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/Tim4ElectedOffice Twitter: http://twitter.com/LancasterGreens Questions: Q: What is the most important duty of the State Treasurer? If elected, how would you carry out that duty?

A: Through the many boards on which the State Treasurer serves, they function as the head investor of the Commonwealth’s financial investments. The State Treasurer has the ability to direct sustainable and ethical investments including which banks hold your tax dollars or how the state pension funds are managed. The duty of transparency, through right-to-know legislation requires the State Treasurer to be clear about the State’s business. I will take the office beyond transparency and to a place of responsible management of your investments.

Q: What distinguishes you from your opponents in the general election?

A: I intend to use my office to push forward an agenda that is future focused and serves the people of Pennsylvania. Every monetary decision I make will consider how we can 1) prepare the State for a Green New Deal by investing in sustainable jobs and eliminating dirty industry handouts, 2) restructure our outdated tax code by closing corporate tax evasion loopholes and providing for equitable taxation, and 3) reform the criminal justice system by ending cash bail and reducing incarceration and recidivism.

U.S. House of Representatives

Pennsylvania US House District 6 Description of office: Congress, the legislative branch of the federal government, is composed of two houses. The upper house is the Senate. The lower house is the House of Representatives. A majority vote in both houses is necessary to pass a law. All bills must pass the House and Senate and be signed by the President. The U.S. Constitution requires that the House of Representatives be composed of elected Representatives (also called Congressmen and Congresswomen) from each State. There are 435 members of the House of Representatives. The number of Representatives from each state is proportioned according to its population, with 18 Representatives from Pennsylvania. A U.S. Representative must be at least 25 years old, have been a citizen of the United States for the past seven years, and be an inhabitant of the state they represent at the time of the election. The House of Representatives is responsible for creating the budget and initiating bills to collect taxes and other money. The House is also responsible for impeaching federal officials (the Senate then tries the case) and electing the President if there is a tie in the Electoral College.

Term: 2 years Salary: $174,000 Vote for ONE.

Candidates (choose 1):

Chrissy Houlahan Party: Dem Biographical Info: County: All of Chester and parts of Berks Mailing Address: PO Box 222 Devon, Pennsylvania 19333-0222 Education: Bachelor of Science in Engineering from Stanford University; Master of Science in Technology and Policy from MIT Qualifications: An Air Force veteran, engineer, entrepreneur, educator, and now U.S. Representative, Chrissy is the first woman to represent this district. She is the daughter of a Holocaust survivor who built several thriving PA companies and did Teach for America before scaling a nonprofit focused on literacy. campaign website: http://www.chrissyhoulahanforcongress.com Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/HoulahanForPA/ Twitter: http://twitter.com/HoulahanForPa Questions: Q: What would be your top priorities as a U.S. Representative over the next two years?

A: In 2018, I ran on ensuring quality, affordable healthcare for Pennsylvanians, great schools for every child, growing our economy, protecting our environment and combating climate change, reducing gun violence, and restoring civility and decency to our politics. These are still importnat to my community.

During my time in office, I have worked across the aisle to be a leader on delivering 12 weeks of paid parental leave for all federal workers, helping servicewomen/female veterans, and building support for national service programs. Since the pandemic hit, I have been focused on 1) protecting first responders/medical staff, 2) helping small businesses get the support they need, and 3) figuring out how to make sure this never happens again.

Q: The landmark Shelby v. Holder decision overturned protections in the Voting Rights Act of 1965 that required certain states and local governments to obtain federal preclearance before implementing voting laws or practices. Since then, the U.S. has experienced a surge of legislation that makes it more difficult for many people to vote. What voting reforms do you see as essential to making U.S. elections accessible and secure?

A: The first bill I sponsored after taking office was H.R. 1, the For the People Act, which provides for automatic voter registration, online voter registration, same-day voter registration, the restoration of voting rights to those with felony convictions, the end of partisan gerrymandering, expanded early voting, and expanded vote-by-mail, among other things. I am proud to live in a state with “no-excuse needed” vote by mail. In only my second month in office, I sponsored H.R. 4, the Voting Rights Advancement Act, which updates the preclearance formula struck down in Shelby v. Holder to restore the protections provided under the Voting Rights Act. I was proud to vote for passage of this bill in Dec 2019 and am eager to see it become law.

Q: How would you go about finding consensus and reducing gridlock in Washington, D.C.?

A: I come from a purple place; on the same day in 2016, my district voted for both Hillary Clinton for President and Republican Pat Toomey for Senate. My community is pragmatic and solutions-oriented, as am I. In my first year in office, I’ve co-founded For Country, a bipartisan caucus made up of servicemen and women who, apart from their service, have little in common except a desire to work together.

Over half of the bills I’ve introduced have Republican cosponsors. I founded the Servicewomen and Women Veterans Caucus which is both bipartisan and bicameral. I have also been deliberate in introducing myself to Republicans and getting to know people outside the Democratic Caucus.

John Emmons Party: Rep Biographical Info: County: Chester Mailing Address: PO Box 102 West Grove, PA 19390 Education: Bachelor of Science (BS) in Chemical Engineering, Cum Laude, State University of NY at Buffalo Qualifications: I have served as Rep. Committeeman in New London Twp & chairman of Area 28 of the Chester County GOP. I have worked for candidates at all levels. I am a problem-solver and will always work to do the right thing, using common-sense solutions. I will fight for our district and our country! campaign website: http://www.emmonsforcongress.com/ Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/EmmonsForCongress/ Twitter: http://twitter.com/Emmons4Congress Questions: Q: What would be your top priorities as a U.S. Representative over the next two years?

A: Prior to the COVID-19 outbreak, my top priorities were health & healthcare reform, growing good jobs & the economy, and fixing the broken immigration system. Now, having seem how tenuous our nations’s critical supply chain is, I would push for policies to bring key manufacturing back to the United States. Likewise, we need to work with countries across the globe to be ready to detect, contain, and fight dangerous disease outbreaks.

Q: The landmark Shelby v. Holder decision overturned protections in the Voting Rights Act of 1965 that required certain states and local governments to obtain federal preclearance before implementing voting laws or practices. Since then, the U.S. has experienced a surge of legislation that makes it more difficult for many people to vote. What voting reforms do you see as essential to making U.S. elections accessible and secure?

A: I would push for a voter ID process. We also need to make sure that our registration lists are updated and accurate. We must ensure that there are systems in place to eliminate fraud associated with absentee and mail-in ballots to help ensure that everyone gets to cast their own vote and that all votes are counted accurately.

Q: How would you go about finding consensus and reducing gridlock in Washington, D.C.?

A: I believe we need to establish term limits to eliminate the possibility of lifetime politicians. We should change the law to require members of Congress, and their staffs, to forfeit compensation if there is a failure to reach agreement on important issues, such as budgets, spending authorizations and increasing the debt limit.

PA State Senator

Pennsylvania Senate District 9 Description of office: The General Assembly is the legislative branch of government in Pennsylvania.

It is composed of two houses: the Senate is the upper house, and the House of Representatives is the lower house. A majority vote in both houses is necessary to pass a law. The Senate consists of 50 members. Senators must be at least 25 years old, have been citizens and lived in their respective districts one year before their election, and must live in their districts during their terms of service.

Term: 4 years Salary: $90,335 Vote for ONE.

Candidates (choose 1):

John I. Kane Party: Dem Biographical Info: County: Chester Mailing Address: 209 Harding Avenue Havertown, PA 19083 Education: Cardinal O’Hara Class of 1978 Qualifications: I’m a lifelong union member, and have spent my career fighting on behalf of working people. At a time when income inequality is higher than ever, we need elected officials focused on protecting working families and their needs. We need better public schools, higher wages, and better healthcare. campaign website: http://kane4senate.com Facebook: http://facebook.com/kane4senate Questions: Q: Access to the ballot box is one of the most important rights for a citizen. Although Pennsylvania recently modernized its election code, there are other reforms that would further modernize Pennsylvania’s elections. If elected, what reforms would you support to ensure that all citizens who want to vote are able to securely, privately, and independently cast a ballot?

A: We need same day voter registration, a longer vote by mail window, and more early in person polling sites.

Q: While there have been some positive legislative actions recently, partisan gridlock in Harrisburg has taken its toll, and many people feel that Pennsylvania’s state government is dysfunctional. What types of reforms, if any, would you support to make the legislative process in Harrisburg more effective?

A: Candidate did not respond.

Q: Do you support a state constitutional amendment to form an independent commission to redraw Congressional and legislative districts? Why or why not?

A: Yes I do. The commonly used phrase is, “Voters should pick their elected officials. Elected officials shouldn’t pick their voters.” We need truly non-partisan Q: 2020 marks the 30th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act. However, many barriers still exist for people with disabilities. What will you do as a state legislator to improve accessibility for people with disabilities across the Commonwealth?

A: Candidate did not respond.

Thomas H. Killion Party: Rep Biographical Info: County: I represent parts of Delaware and Chester counties.

Mailing Address: 323 W. Front St. Media, PA 19063 Education: BS in Criminal Justice from Pennsylvania State University.

Qualifications: I served on Delaware County Council from 1992-2000, in the General Assembly from 2003-2016, and in the PA Senate since 2016. My office is a public trust. Promoting the best interests of my constituents and community will remain my top priority. campaign website: http://Killionforsenate.com Facebook: http://Facebook.com/KillionforPA Twitter: http://Twitter.com/KillionforPA Questions: Q: Access to the ballot box is one of the most important rights for a citizen. Although Pennsylvania recently modernized its election code, there are other reforms that would further modernize Pennsylvania’s elections. If elected, what reforms would you support to ensure that all citizens who want to vote are able to securely, privately, and independently cast a ballot?

A: I was a co-sponsor of and voted for Pennsylvania’s historic new vote-by-mail law, which was the most comprehensive election reform law in more than 80 years. The legislation included funding for new voting machines that provide paper trails, no excuse mail in ballot voting and longer periods of time to register to vote. I will continue to support common sense legislation that encourages voter participation, which is why I co-sponsored and voted for a bill that allows Pennsylvania’s 800,000 unaffiliated voters to cast ballots in our Primaries.

Q: While there have been some positive legislative actions recently, partisan gridlock in Harrisburg has taken its toll, and many people feel that Pennsylvania’s state government is dysfunctional. What types of reforms, if any, would you support to make the legislative process in Harrisburg more effective?

A: As State Senator, I have worked well with my Democratic colleagues in both the House and Senate.

For the past three years, I have voted for bi-partisan bills that improve the lives of Pennsylvanians that were signed by a Democratic Governor. I will continue to work with my friends across the aisle to fight for the interests of my community.

Q: Do you support a state constitutional amendment to form an independent commission to redraw Congressional and legislative districts? Why or why not?

A: Yes, I proudly introduced SB 1023 and co-sponsored SB 1022 to reform our redistricting process.

I firmly believe citizens should pick their legislators, not the other way around. I look forward to working with my colleagues to get these bills passed and ensure fair districts are created in a transparent manner for all Pennsylvanians.

Q: 2020 marks the 30th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act. However, many barriers still exist for people with disabilities. What will you do as a state legislator to improve accessibility for people with disabilities across the Commonwealth?

A: I have been a strong supporter of the Americans with Disabilities Act and expanding rights for individuals with disabilities. I have always fought for the interests of these individuals and will continue

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2020

to do so if re-elected.

Pennsylvania Senate District 19 Description of office: The General Assembly is the legislative branch of government in Pennsylvania.

It is composed of two houses: the Senate is the upper house, and the House of Representatives is the lower house. A majority vote in both houses is necessary to pass a law. The Senate consists of 50 members. Senators must be at least 25 years old, have been citizens and lived in their respective districts one year before their election, and must live in their districts during their terms of service.

Term: 4 years Salary: $90,335 Vote for ONE.

Candidates (choose 1):

Carolyn Comitta Party: Dem Biographical Info: County: Chester County Mailing Address: 115 S. Brandywine St. West Chester, PA 19382 Education: Bachelor of Science in Education from West Chester State College. Master of Science in Education from Widener University.

Qualifications: I am currently the State Rep for the 156th District. I am also the CFO and VP of TCA, Inc. I was the first woman elected Mayor of West Chester. I was an educator in the Octorara School District for 10 years. campaign website: http://votecarolyncomitta.com Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/carolyntcomittachesco/ Twitter: http://twitter.com/carolyncomitta Questions: Q: Access to the ballot box is one of the most important rights for a citizen. Although Pennsylvania recently modernized its election code, there are other reforms that would further modernize Pennsylvania’s elections. If elected, what reforms would you support to ensure that all citizens who want to vote are able to securely, privately, and independently cast a ballot?

A: As a long time member of LWV, I support all of their election reform policies. I fully support Act 77 of 2019, the first election reform bill to be passed by then PA legislature in 80 years. I am devoting persistent legislative and campaign efforts to educate voters about the reforms. Which include mail in voting, an extra 15 days to register to vote, and an extended deadline to submit mail in and absentee ballots to 8pm on Election Day. The election reforms of Act 77.are predicted to increase voter participation by 4%. I support and fight for all efforts to give voters as many options to register and to vote as possible including open primaries and allowing 17 year olds to preregister to vote, and automatic registration.

Q: While there have been some positive legislative actions recently, partisan gridlock in Harrisburg has taken its toll, and many people feel that Pennsylvania’s state government is dysfunctional. What types of reforms, if any, would you support to make the legislative process in Harrisburg more effective?

A: Again, I support all LWV positions on state government reform. I am particularly focused on the education of legislators and staff to follow ethics rules and give excellent service to our constituents.

Keeping up with the latest in social media, communicated clearly and in a timely way with constituents and responding quickly to their needs are paramount. Transparency and clear communication are priorities that every legislator should follow to help me more effective in their work. It has always been my ideology to build coalitions with politicians and community leaders to get things done. We need to work together across the aisle to affect change and create a better future for all.

Q: Do you support a state constitutional amendment to form an independent commission to redraw Congressional and legislative districts? Why or why not?

A: I support a state constitutional amendment to form an independent commission to redraw Congressional and legislative districts because we need a fair and transparent process to end gerrymandering.

We need an independent citizens’ commission to bring a balance of perspectives and clear standard against dividing counties more than needed.

Q: 2020 marks the 30th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act. However, many barriers still exist for people with disabilities. What will you do as a state legislator to improve accessibility for people with disabilities across the Commonwealth?

A: People with disabilities deserve to have the same rights and accessibility as people without disabilities. In Harrisburg, I continue to fight to improve accessibility for people with disabilities. Accessibility for all is a necessity. For instance, Act 77 of 2019 will make it easier for people with disabilities to vote.

Mail in voting for all and extended deadlines for voter registration and ballot return will help all voters, and I believe will especially help those with disabilities.

Kevin Runey Party: Rep Biographical Info: Mailing Address: 95 Inniscrone Dr Avondale, PA 19311 Questions: Q: Access to the ballot box is one of the most important rights for a citizen. Although Pennsylvania recently modernized its election code, there are other reforms that would further modernize Pennsylvania’s elections. If elected, what reforms would you support to ensure that all citizens who want to vote are able to securely, privately, and independently cast a ballot?

A: Candidate did not respond.

Q: While there have been some positive legislative actions recently, partisan gridlock in Harrisburg has taken its toll, and many people feel that Pennsylvania’s state government is dysfunctional. What types of reforms, if any, would you support to make the legislative process in Harrisburg more effective?

A: Candidate did not respond.

Q: Do you support a state constitutional amendment to form an independent commission to redraw Congressional and legislative districts? Why or why not?

A: Candidate did not respond.

Q: 2020 marks the 30th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act. However, many barriers still exist for people with disabilities. What will you do as a state legislator to improve accessibility for people with disabilities across the Commonwealth?

A: Candidate did not respond.

PA State Representative

Pennsylvania Representative District 13 Description of office: The General Assembly is the legislative branch of government in Pennsylvania.

It is composed of two houses: the Senate is the upper house, and the House of Representatives is the lower house. A majority vote in both houses is necessary to pass a law. The House of Representatives consists of 203 members. Representatives must be at least 21 years old, have been citizens and lived in their respective districts one year before their election, and must live in their districts during their terms of service.

Term: 2 years Salary: $90,335 Vote for ONE.

Candidates (choose 1):

Richard Ruggieri Party: Dem Biographical Info: Mailing Address: PO Box 12, Oxford, PA 19363 Education: BS Information Sciences & Technology, Penn State University.

Qualifications: US Air Force: ten years. The Military taught me honor, service, and being part of something larger. Pragmatic problem solver and leader. campaign website: http://www.RuggieriPA13.com Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/RichardRuggieriPA13/ Twitter: http:// https://twitter.com/RuggieriPA13 Questions: Q: Access to the ballot box is one of the most important rights for a citizen. Although Pennsylvania recently modernized its election code, there are other reforms that would further modernize Pennsylvania’s elections. If elected, what reforms would you support to ensure that all citizens who want to vote are able to securely, privately, and independently cast a ballot?

A: I support various progressive election reforms, including automatic or same day registration, early and expanded voting period, making election day a holiday, and ensuring the right to vote for felons who have paid their debt to society.

Q: While there have been some positive legislative actions recently, partisan gridlock in Harrisburg has taken its toll, and many people feel that Pennsylvania’s state government is dysfunctional. What types of reforms, if any, would you support to make the legislative process in Harrisburg more effective?

A: I support the efforts to end gerrymandering, such as those championed by Fair Districts PA. I also believe that ranked choice voting, multi-representative districts, and other innovative ideas should be seriously considered. I also support regulation of money in political elections as well as public funding options.

Q: Do you support a state constitutional amendment to form an independent commission to redraw Congressional and legislative districts? Why or why not?

A: I do. I believe that as our data mapping technologies have become sophisticated enough to gerrymander districts to untold degrees, we must take action to ensure that, regardless of party, those with power are not able to become entrenched.

Q: 2020 marks the 30th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act. However, many barriers still exist for people with disabilities. What will you do as a state legislator to improve accessibility for people with disabilities across the Commonwealth?

A: I support efforts to expand equal opportunities, increase participation in our workforce, and improve accessibility to independent living for people with disabilities. People of all walks of life deserve to be full members of our civic community, especially access to the ballot.

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John Lawrence Party: Rep Biographical Info: Mailing Address: PO Box 331, West Grove, PA 19390 Education: Penn State University, BS, Smeal College of Business Administration Qualifications: 10+ Years Financial Professional with JPMorgan Chase, Lifetime Resident of Southern Chester County. Consistent voice for reform in Harrisburg.

Deputy Whip. Serve on Appropriations, Agriculture & Rural Affairs, Transportation, Professional Licensure, Gov’t Oversight, & Rules Committees.

Questions: Q: Access to the ballot box is one of the most important rights for a citizen. Although Pennsylvania recently modernized its election code, there are other reforms that would further modernize Pennsylvania’s elections. If elected, what reforms would you support to ensure that all citizens who want to vote are able to securely, privately, and independently cast a ballot?

A: Pennsylvania’s Election Code had not seen major updates in decades until this year. I voted YES to change Pennsylvania’s Election Code to ensure every Pennsylvanian uses a paper ballot that is secure and cannot be hacked, and to give every Pennsylvanian the ability to vote by mail. I also voted YES to provide Chester and Lancaster counties state funding to purchase new voting machines for every precinct. The right to vote is a paramount and cherished freedom that we must never take for granted.

Q: While there have been some positive legislative actions recently, partisan gridlock in Harrisburg has taken its toll, and many people feel that Pennsylvania’s state government is dysfunctional. What types of reforms, if any, would you support to make the legislative process in Harrisburg more effective?

A: Both parties have contributed to the toxic partisan environment we see in Washington and Harrisburg. During my time in office, I have sought to work with folks from both sides of the aisle whenever possible. Almost all of the my legislation in Harrisburg has passed the House with broad bipartisan support. As an example, I worked with Democratic State Representative Brandon Neuman to pass important legislation protecting victims of domestic violence from being financially harmed during divorce proceedings. I also worked together with Senator Dinniman and both Democrats and Republicans on the Penn Township Board of Supervisors to fix the Red Rose Intersection at 796 and Old Baltimore Pike, a project that had languished for decades.

Q: Do you support a state constitutional amendment to form an independent commission to redraw Congressional and legislative districts? Why or why not?

A: I support moving to a citizen’s commission for legislative redistricting. I was a YES vote on HB 2402 and several other bills that instituted a independent redistricting commission, and I have publicly called for Chairman Garth Everett to move similar legislation this session. Many have said that it is a conflict of interest for legislators to draw legislative districts, and I agree. In a similar vein, I have introduced legislation that would put all decisions regarding legislator’s compensation in the hands of a citizen’s committee. Everyday citizens are increasingly skeptical of government, and I believe instituting these reforms would go a long way in restoring public confidence in the legislative process.

Q: 2020 marks the 30th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act. However, many barriers still exist for people with disabilities. What will you do as a state legislator to improve accessibility for people with disabilities across the Commonwealth?

A: Every Pennsylvanian deserves the opportunity to thrive and succeed. As State Representative, I have supported significant increased state funding for services to those with physical and intellectual disabilities, as well as funding for Special Education for our youngest citizens. I have also worked locally, even working to address something as simple as broken sidewalks in Oxford, which makes getting around a real challenge for some of our residents who struggle with mobility. Working with folks on both sides of the aisle, I was able to secure over $700,000 in grant funding to address this issue. There is still much to be done in this area and I will continue to advocate both in Harrisburg and with officials in Washington.

Pennsylvania Representative District 26 Description of office: The General Assembly is the legislative branch of government in Pennsylvania.

It is composed of two houses: the Senate is the upper house, and the House of Representatives is the lower house. A majority vote in both houses is necessary to pass a law. The House of Representatives consists of 203 members. Representatives must be at least 21 years old, have been citizens and lived in their respective districts one year before their election, and must live in their districts during their terms of service.

Term: 2 years Salary: $90,335 Vote for ONE.

Candidates (choose 1):

Paul Friel Party: Dem Biographical Info: Mailing Address: 307 Valley Hunt Dr., Phoenixville, PA 19460 Education: Temple University Business Law American College: MS Leadership and management Qualifications: Member of the Owen J. Roberts School Board & public school parent -Small business owner with over 25 years of experience in executive and management roles, including in public, private, and family-owned organization campaign website: http://www.PaulFriel.com Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/PaulforPA Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/PaulFrielforPA Questions: Q: Access to the ballot box is one of the most important rights for a citizen. Although Pennsylvania recently modernized its election code, there are other reforms that would further modernize Pennsylvania’s elections. If elected, what reforms would you support to ensure that all citizens who want to vote are able to securely, privately, and independently cast a ballot?

A: To increase voter participation, I support automatic registration, greater ease of online registration, same-day registration, early voting, and expanded mail-in voting. I support efforts to allow for pre-registration, or registration to vote before age 18. This pandemic has emphasized the need for greater access to mail-in and absentee voting. Specifically, I oppose the recently-passed Pennsylvania House Bill 2626 which seeks to suppress voters by limiting access to ballot drop boxes and allowing out-of county poll observers to intimidate voters.

Q: While there have been some positive legislative actions recently, partisan gridlock in Harrisburg has taken its toll, and many people feel that Pennsylvania’s state government is dysfunctional. What types of reforms, if any, would you support to make the legislative process in Harrisburg more effective?

A: I know that we can make a transparent, accountable, and well-functioning government a reality in Pennsylvania. I’m committed to people over politics, and will always put my community over partisan political needs. I will work toward a more democratic system by increasing accessibility to voting through changes to registration and election processes. We also need greater campaign finance reforms to help increase transparency and accountability from our elected officials. We must put into place common-sense limitations on donations to ensure legislators represent their constituents and communities– not special interests. Reforms taken against gerrymandering will also help ensure a fair and effective legislature.

Q: Do you support a state constitutional amendment to form an independent commission to redraw Congressional and legislative districts? Why or why not?

A: Yes, I support an amendment to form an independent commission. Pennsylvania is one of the most gerrymandered states in the country, and this damages our citizen engagement and cohesion in the political process. Communities should be able to vote together, and our current system splits them up for political gains. All parties should have a fair chance to govern, and legislators should be able to represent geography- and community-based districts, which will make both the campaigning and legislative processes more effective. I’m committed to ensuring that communities can vote together and be governed by a common legislator, rather than being split up to advance partisan political needs.

Q: 2020 marks the 30th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act. However, many barriers still exist for people with disabilities. What will you do as a state legislator to improve accessibility for people with disabilities across the Commonwealth?

A: We must address the structural ways that discrimination and barriers to access impact people with disabilities. While the ADA addresses many of the physical barriers, our ever-increasing online systems must consider accessibility concerns before they are launched. Beyond logistical concerns, we must ensure equity in resources and opportunity for people of all backgrounds. I will also pursue further investments in healthcare and social services to make services more accessible and affordable so that all people can manage their wellbeing and pursue meaningful lives. We must also reform our systems to address bias against people with mental disabilities so that they have the same access to services as those with physical disabilities.

Tim Hennessey Party: Rep Biographical Info: Mailing Address: 1178 Foxview Rd., Pottstown, PA 19464 Education: St. Pius X High School St. Joseph’s University Villanova Law School Qualifications Legal degree. 28 years of Legislative experience. campaign website: http://votehennessey.com Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/TimHennesseyforPA Questions: Q: Access to the ballot box is one of the most important rights for a citizen. Although Pennsylvania recently modernized its election code, there are other reforms that would further modernize Pennsylvania’s elections. If elected, what reforms would you support to ensure that all citizens who want to vote are able to securely, privately, and independently cast a ballot?

A: I was pleased to vote to expand mail-in voting opportunities for all citizens who want to vote by mail, for any reason. Some fear the corona virus threat, while others wish to do so for convenience. We should not question the reason why a voter chooses to vote by mail or in person, so long as the vote is legitimately cast. I recently voted to lengthen the window to apply for mail-in ballots, and to streamline the preparation of mailed-in ballots for counting on election day.

Q: While there have been some positive legislative actions recently, partisan gridlock in Harrisburg has taken its toll, and many people feel that Pennsylvania’s state government is dysfunctional. What types of reforms, if any, would you support to make the legislative process in Harrisburg more effective?

A: Republicans and Democrats need to work together to get bills passed, and often do, much more frequently than people think. In the committees I’ve chaired, I’ve made sure that bills from both parties are brought up for consideration and discussion and then for a vote. Disagreeing on matters of principle is not the same thing as “partisan gridlock.”

8B

CHESTER COUNTY PRESS

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2020

Q: Do you support a state constitutional amendment to form an independent commission to redraw Congressional and legislative districts? Why or why not?

A: Yes!! I have co-sponsored House Bills 22 and 23 and have prepared through the Legislative Reference Bureau an amendment to expressly state that our Pennsylvania legislature would relinquish its authority over redistricting, which was a key consideration in the US Supreme Court’s decision in the Arizona Redistricting Case in 2015.

Q: 2020 marks the 30th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act. However, many barriers still exist for people with disabilities. What will you do as a state legislator to improve accessibility for people with disabilities across the Commonwealth?

A: The Americans with Disabilities Act is a wonderful law, which has provided many opportunities for our citizens who have handicaps. This is an act with national scope, but we can allocate funds at the state level to implement the on-going construction projects (sidewalk ramps at crosswalks), which would need to be completed.

PA State Representative

Pennsylvania Representative District 74 Description of office: The General Assembly is the legislative branch of government in Pennsylvania.

It is composed of two houses: the Senate is the upper house, and the House of Representatives is the lower house. A majority vote in both houses is necessary to pass a law. The House of Representatives consists of 203 members. Representatives must be at least 21 years old, have been citizens and lived in their respective districts one year before their election, and must live in their districts during their terms of service.

Term: 2 years Salary: $90,335 Vote for ONE.

Candidates (choose 1):

Dan K. Williams Party: Dem Biographical Info: Mailing Address: 21 Wick Dr Parkesburg, PA 19365 Questions: Q: Access to the ballot box is one of the most important rights for a citizen. Although Pennsylvania recently modernized its election code, there are other reforms that would further modernize Pennsylvania’s elections. If elected, what reforms would you support to ensure that all citizens who want to vote are able to securely, privately, and independently cast a ballot?

A: Candidate did not respond.

Q: While there have been some positive legislative actions recently, partisan gridlock in Harrisburg has taken its toll, and many people feel that Pennsylvania’s state government is dysfunctional. What types of reforms, if any, would you support to make the legislative process in Harrisburg more effective?

A: Candidate did not respond.

Q: Do you support a state constitutional amendment to form an independent commission to redraw Congressional and legislative districts? Why or why not?

A: Candidate did not respond.

Q: 2020 marks the 30th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act. However, many barriers still exist for people with disabilities. What will you do as a state legislator to improve accessibility for people with disabilities across the Commonwealth?

A: Candidate did not respond.

Dale Hensel Party: Rep Biographical Info: Mailing Address: 157 Cowan Rd. Parkesburg, PA 19365 Questions: Q: Access to the ballot box is one of the most important rights for a citizen. Although Pennsylvania recently modernized its election code, there are other reforms that would further modernize Pennsylvania’s elections. If elected, what reforms would you support to ensure that all citizens who want to vote are able to securely, privately, and independently cast a ballot?

A: Candidate did not respond.

Q: While there have been some positive legislative actions recently, partisan gridlock in Harrisburg has taken its toll, and many people feel that Pennsylvania’s state government is dysfunctional. What types of reforms, if any, would you support to make the legislative process in Harrisburg more effective?

A: Candidate did not respond.

Q: Do you support a state constitutional amendment to form an independent commission to redraw Congressional and legislative districts? Why or why not?

A: Candidate did not respond.

Q: 2020 marks the 30th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act. However, many barriers still exist for people with disabilities. What will you do as a state legislator to improve accessibility for people with disabilities across the Commonwealth?

A: Candidate did not respond.

Pennsylvania Representative District 155 Description of office: The General Assembly is the legislative branch of government in Pennsylvania.

It is composed of two houses: The Senate is the upper house, and the House of Representatives is the lower house. A majority vote in both houses is necessary to pass a law. The House of Representatives consists of 203 members. Representatives must be at least 21 years old, have been citizens and lived in their respective districts one year before their election, and must live in their districts during their terms of service.

Term: 2 years Salary: $90,335 Vote for ONE.

Candidates (choose 1):

Danielle Friel Otten Party: Dem Biographical Info: Mailing Address: 400 Devon Dr Exton, PA 19341 Questions: Q: Access to the ballot box is one of the most important rights for a citizen. Although Pennsylvania recently modernized its election code, there are other reforms that would further modernize Pennsylvania’s elections. If elected, what reforms would you support to ensure that all citizens who want to vote are able to securely, privately, and independently cast a ballot?

A: Candidate did not respond.

Q: While there have been some positive legislative actions recently, partisan gridlock in Harrisburg has taken its toll, and many people feel that Pennsylvania’s state government is dysfunctional. What types of reforms, if any, would you support to make the legislative process in Harrisburg more effective?

A: Candidate did not respond.

Q: Do you support a state constitutional amendment to form an independent commission to redraw Congressional and legislative districts? Why or why not?

A: Candidate did not respond.

Q: 2020 marks the 30th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act. However, many barriers still exist for people with disabilities. What will you do as a state legislator to improve accessibility for people with disabilities across the Commonwealth?

A: Candidate did not respond.

Michael Thomas Taylor Party: Rep Biographical Info: Mailing Address: 462 Creekside Drive Downingtown, PA 19335 Questions: Q: Access to the ballot box is one of the most important rights for a citizen. Although Pennsylvania recently modernized its election code, there are other reforms that would further modernize Pennsylvania’s elections. If elected, what reforms would you support to ensure that all citizens who want to vote are able to securely, privately, and independently cast a ballot?

A: Candidate did not respond.

Q: While there have been some positive legislative actions recently, partisan gridlock in Harrisburg has taken its toll, and many people feel that Pennsylvania’s state government is dysfunctional. What types of reforms, if any, would you support to make the legislative process in Harrisburg more effective?

A: Candidate did not respond.

Q: Do you support a state constitutional amendment to form an independent commission to redraw Congressional and legislative districts? Why or why not?

A: Candidate did not respond.

Q: 2020 marks the 30th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act. However, many barriers still exist for people with disabilities. What will you do as a state legislator to improve accessibility for people with disabilities across the Commonwealth?

A: Candidate did not respond.

Pennsylvania Representative District 156 Description of office: The General Assembly is the legislative branch of government in Pennsylvania.

It is composed of two houses: the Senate is the upper house, and the House of Representatives is the lower house. A majority vote in both houses is necessary to pass a law. The House of Representatives consists of 203 members. Representatives must be at least 21 years old, have been citizens and lived in their respective districts one year before their election, and must live in their districts during their terms of service.

Term: 2 years

Salary: $90,335 Vote for ONE.

Candidates (choose 1):

Dianne Herrin Party: Dem Biographical Info: County: Chester Questions: Q: Access to the ballot box is one of the most important rights for a citizen. Although Pennsylvania recently modernized its election code, there are other reforms that would further modernize Pennsylvania’s elections. If elected, what reforms would you support to ensure that all citizens who want to vote are able to securely, privately, and independently cast a ballot?

A: Candidate did not respond.

Q: While there have been some positive legislative actions recently, partisan gridlock in Harrisburg has taken its toll, and many people feel that Pennsylvania’s state government is dysfunctional. What types of reforms, if any, would you support to make the legislative process in Harrisburg more effective?

A: Candidate did not respond.

Q: Do you support a state constitutional amendment to form an independent commission to redraw Congressional and legislative districts? Why or why not?

A: Candidate did not respond.

Q: 2020 marks the 30th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act. However, many barriers still exist for people with disabilities. What will you do as a state legislator to improve accessibility for people with disabilities across the Commonwealth?

A: Candidate did not respond.

Len Iacono Party: Rep Biographical Info: Mailing Address: 1324 Mary Jane Ln West Chester, PA 19380 Questions: Q: Access to the ballot box is one of the most important rights for a citizen. Although Pennsylvania recently modernized its election code, there are other reforms that would further modernize Pennsylvania’s elections. If elected, what reforms would you support to ensure that all citizens who want to vote are able to securely, privately, and independently cast a ballot?

A: Candidate did not respond.

Q: While there have been some positive legislative actions recently, partisan gridlock in Harrisburg has taken its toll, and many people feel that Pennsylvania’s state government is dysfunctional. What types of reforms, if any, would you support to make the legislative process in Harrisburg more effective?

A: Candidate did not respond.

Q: Do you support a state constitutional amendment to form an independent commission to redraw Congressional and legislative districts? Why or why not?

A: Candidate did not respond.

Q: 2020 marks the 30th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act. However, many barriers still exist for people with disabilities. What will you do as a state legislator to improve accessibility for people with disabilities across the Commonwealth?

A: Candidate did not respond.

Pennsylvania Representative District 157 Description of office: The General Assembly is the legislative branch of government in Pennsylvania.

It is composed of two houses: the Senate is the upper house, and the House of Representatives is the lower house. A majority vote in both houses is necessary to pass a law. The House of Representatives consists of 203 members. Representatives must be at least 21 years old, have been citizens and lived in their respective districts one year before their election, and must live in their districts during their terms of service.

Term: 2 years Salary: $90,335 Vote for ONE.

Candidates (choose 1):

Melissa L. Shusterman Party: Dem Biographical Info: County: Chester County and Montgomery County Mailing Address: 385 Shelbourne Lane Phoenixville, PA 19460 Education: Master’s in Film & Video ‘93 BA Lafayette College ‘89 High School Degree, Conestoga ‘85 Qualifications: Before running for office, Melissa worked in the video production industry. She worked for large networks like Food Network, VH1, and HGTV before returning to Pennsylvania to raise her son as a single mother. There, she started her own successful business, a video production company.

Melissa’s busin campaign website: http://www.melissashusterman.com/ Facebook: http:// https://www.facebook.com/MelissaShustermanforStateRep/ Twitter: http://twitter.com/MelissaForPA Questions: Q: Access to the ballot box is one of the most important rights for a citizen. Although Pennsylvania recently modernized its election code, there are other reforms that would further modernize Pennsylvania’s elections. If elected, what reforms would you support to ensure that all citizens who want to vote are able to securely, privately, and independently cast a ballot?

A: Fighting the unfairness of gerrymandering was one of the cornerstones of my campaign. Once I became the State Representative of the 157th, I signed onto the Fair Districts legislative package to end gerrymandering and I also signed onto the legislation to make ‘fair rules’ for the house. I am supportive of same day voter registration, continued the use of no excuse absentee ballot, curbside voting (for Senior Citizens and people with physical disabilities) and an early voting period.

Q: While there have been some positive legislative actions recently, partisan gridlock in Harrisburg has taken its toll, and many people feel that Pennsylvania’s state government is dysfunctional. What types of reforms, if any, would you support to make the legislative process in Harrisburg more effective?

A: More than 60,000 people count on each of us to literally represent their views and our communities, and these people bring great ideas that are too often bottled up and never receive a vote. We need to change the House Rules to fix this. Under my plan, each House Member would get one Priority Bill per session. In our state, lobbyists out number legislators five to one. And many of these lobbyists are former public officials who left office to pursue lucrative contracts working for special interest groups.

Public officials in PA need only wait one year before lobbying the people they formerly worked with. HB 2263, my bill would put a “stop to the revolving door” banning legislators from lobbying.

Q: Do you support a state constitutional amendment to form an independent commission to redraw Congressional and legislative districts? Why or why not?

A: Yes. I believe in the proposals that the bipartisan group FAIR DISTRICTS has created. I would prefer immediate legislative action and then a Constitutional amendment.

Q: 2020 marks the 30th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act. However, many barriers still exist for people with disabilities. What will you do as a state legislator to improve accessibility for people with disabilities across the Commonwealth?

A: I am honored to be co-chair of the Autism and Intellectual Disabilities caucus. We work closely with people with physical and intellectual disabilities to make sure they are heard, they remain safe and valued within our communities. My district office has held events to bring together family’s and celebrate this vibrant community. I was also able to co-sign a piece of voting legislation for a Braille option for blind voters as well as a piece of legislation to enforce the harshest penalties to those who violently attack people with disabilities. Securing money to create ADA compliant sidewalks as well as money secured for an All Abilities Playground for my district was another way to improve accessibility.

Bryan D. Walters Party: Rep Biographical Info: County: Chester Mailing Address: 1361 Valley Forge Rd Phoenixville, PA 19460 Questions: Q: Access to the ballot box is one of the most important rights for a citizen. Although Pennsylvania recently modernized its election code, there are other reforms that would further modernize Pennsylvania’s elections. If elected, what reforms would you support to ensure that all citizens who want to vote are able to securely, privately, and independently cast a ballot?

A: Candidate did not respond.

Q: While there have been some positive legislative actions recently, partisan gridlock in Harrisburg has taken its toll, and many people feel that Pennsylvania’s state government is dysfunctional. What types of reforms, if any, would you support to make the legislative process in Harrisburg more effective?

A: Candidate did not respond.

Q: Do you support a state constitutional amendment to form an independent commission to redraw Congressional and legislative districts? Why or why not?

A: Candidate did not respond. Candidate did not respond.

Q: 2020 marks the 30th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act. However, many barriers still exist for people with disabilities. What will you do as a state legislator to improve accessibility for people with disabilities across the Commonwealth?

A: Candidate did not respond.

Pennsylvania Representative District 158 Description of office: The General Assembly is the legislative branch of government in Pennsylvania.

It is composed of two houses: the Senate is the upper house, and the House of Representatives is the lower house. A majority vote in both houses is necessary to pass a law. The House of Representatives

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consists of 203 members. Representatives must be at least 21 years old, have been citizens and lived in their respective districts one year before their election, and must live in their districts during their terms of service.

Term: 2 years Salary: $90,335 Vote for ONE.

Candidates (choose 1):

Christina Sappey Party: Dem Biographical Info: County: Chester Mailing Address: 1431 Telegraph Rd West Chester, PA 19380 Education: BA Penn State University Qualifications: Current state representative experienced in business, local government, agriculture, basic and special education, mental health and veteran’s affairs policy. campaign website: http://www.christinasappeypa158.com Facebook: http://@christinasappeypa158 Questions: Q: Access to the ballot box is one of the most important rights for a citizen. Although Pennsylvania recently modernized its election code, there are other reforms that would further modernize Pennsylvania’s elections. If elected, what reforms would you support to ensure that all citizens who want to vote are able to securely, privately, and independently cast a ballot?

A: I support, and have cosponsored legislation on, campaign finance reform to increase transparency and to end the undue influence of corporate and special interests in our elections. I support early voting to increase voter access, extending the start of counting of mail in and absentee ballots from 7am election day to atleast 24 hours before election day and extending the vote to registered Independents in primary elections.

Q: While there have been some positive legislative actions recently, partisan gridlock in Harrisburg has taken its toll, and many people feel that Pennsylvania’s state government is dysfunctional. What types of reforms, if any, would you support to make the legislative process in Harrisburg more effective?

A: The legislative agenda is currently driven by the majority party. It would help eliminate gridlock to amend current House rules to end the partisan committee process, allow more legislation out of committees in a bipartisan manner and to the full house for a vote.

Q: Do you support a state constitutional amendment to form an independent commission to redraw Congressional and legislative districts? Why or why not?

A: Yes. It is vital to our democracy that we enact redistricting reform to end gerrymandering with the creation of an independent redistricting commission to draw legislative boundaries. Legislators should not draw districts to their individual or party advantage.

Q: 2020 marks the 30th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act. However, many barriers still exist for people with disabilities. What will you do as a state legislator to improve accessibility for people with disabilities across the Commonwealth?

A: Our fellow citizens with disabilities and their families deserve the right to self determination. So many in the disability community are caught in the systemic bureaucracy we have created over the years in PA. The scaffolding we provide for those with disabilities is frought with a lack of funding and lack of support and advancement for those who care for the disabled. Changes I am eager to see include an increase in the number of qualified care providers, a living wage for these professionals, quality housing options and job opportunities for the disabled.

Eric Roe Party: Rep Biographical Info: County: Chester County Mailing Address: P.O. Box 3283 West Chester, PA 19381 Education: University College London (M. Sc. in Public Policy) American University (B.A. in Political Science) Henderson Senior High School Qualifications: As our state representative, I invested more in public education funding, fought against partisan gerrymandering, blocked efforts to pollute our one and only environment, protected victims of domestic violence, and passed fiscally responsible state budgets without raising taxes. campaign website: http://www.ericroe.org/ Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/FriendsOfEricRoe/ Questions: Q: Access to the ballot box is one of the most important rights for a citizen. Although Pennsylvania recently modernized its election code, there are other reforms that would further modernize Pennsylvania’s elections. If elected, what reforms would you support to ensure that all citizens who want to vote are able to securely, privately, and independently cast a ballot?

A: In 2018, I introduced legislation to allow voters with physical disabilities to vote by curbside from the comfort of their cars. Since Pennsylvania does not require working wheelchairs to be available at every voting precinct, it’s important to allow voters to cast their ballots on Election Day, even if they did not return their absentee ballots on time. 24 other states have already implemented similar measures, and it is time Pennsylvania join them.

Q: While there have been some positive legislative actions recently, partisan gridlock in Harrisburg has taken its toll, and many people feel that Pennsylvania’s state government is dysfunctional. What types of reforms, if any, would you support to make the legislative process in Harrisburg more effective?

A: The biggest reason for partisan gridlock in Harrisburg is partisan gerrymandering. When Republicans and Democrats are packed into certain districts, the only candidates to seem to win in them are ultra liberal or ultra conservative, and as a result, fewer moderates like myself are able to get elected.

The 158th Legislative District deserves a leader who will build consensus in a bipartisan way. That’s why I was the Republican prime sponsor of HB 722 in 2017, which would create an independent redistricting commission tasked with redrawing the legislative boundary lines of Congress and the General Assembly in Pennsylvania. I worked on that bill with the help of Fair Districts PA, as well as my Democratic colleague Steve Samuelson.

Q: Do you support a state constitutional amendment to form an independent commission to redraw Congressional and legislative districts? Why or why not?

A: Yes, I introduced the bill. See above.

Q: 2020 marks the 30th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act. However, many barriers still exist for people with disabilities. What will you do as a state legislator to improve accessibility for people with disabilities across the Commonwealth?

A: Yes, please see the first question. I’d also like to increase the payouts for the in-home nurses and medical staff who care for Pennsylvanians with disabilities. Their jobs are critical for the well being of Pennsylvanians who live with physical, intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Pennsylvania Representative District 160 Description of office: The General Assembly is the legislative branch of government in Pennsylvania.

It is composed of two houses: the Senate is the upper house, and the House of Representatives is the lower house. A majority vote in both houses is necessary to pass a law. The House of Representatives consists of 203 members. Representatives must be at least 21 years old, have been citizens and lived in their respective districts one year before their election, and must live in their districts during their terms of service.

Term: 2 years Salary: $90,335 Vote for ONE.

Candidates (choose 1):

Anton Andrew Party: Dem Biographical Info: County: Chester Mailing Address: 26 Southridge Drive Kennett Sq, PA 19348 Education: I was able to go to college thanks to federal Pell Grants, scholarships, student loans and part-time jobs. I graduated with a political science degree from the University of Pennsylvania and earned my doctor of jurisprudence from Hofstra University Qualifications: I have spent my career as a public defender, in public higher education, and building local non-profit organizations, standing up against injustice and fighting to give a voice to those who had none. campaign website: http://antonandrew.com Facebook: http://antonandrewforpa Twitter: http://@FriendsofAntonA Questions: Q: Access to the ballot box is one of the most important rights for a citizen. Although Pennsylvania recently modernized its election code, there are other reforms that would further modernize Pennsylvania’s elections. If elected, what reforms would you support to ensure that all citizens who want to vote are able to securely, privately, and independently cast a ballot?

A: PA’s Act 77 did much to improve voting access to its citizens but more progress still needs to be made with improving access with hope to improve voter participation. The following are measures I would support and recommend: Automatic Voter Registration with Driver’s licensing, including pre-registering 16-17 year-olds. Voter registration deadlines closer to election day. Voter registration for those living in shelters. Open primaries, allowing everyone an opportunity to participate in the selection of candidates. Mail-in ballot due date designated by election day post mark.

Q: While there have been some positive legislative actions recently, partisan gridlock in Harrisburg has taken its toll, and many people feel that Pennsylvania’s state government is dysfunctional. What types of reforms, if any, would you support to make the legislative process in Harrisburg more effective?

A: 1.Currently the chairs of the individual committees decide whether to bring a bill out of committee and forward for consideration on the floor. This allows the balance of power of important legislation to be held by one partisan leader, regardless of how many sponsors a bill may have. The procedural rules, which allow this action, must be changed. 2. Only 10 states allow gifts to their legislators and Pennsylvania is one of them. I would support and recommend a ban on gifts to elected officials along

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with more stringent and detailed reporting of income outside their legislator pay. 3. Campaign finance rules need to be enhanced with limits on PAC and individual donations.

Q: Do you support a state constitutional amendment to form an independent commission to redraw Congressional and legislative districts? Why or why not?

A: I fully favor redistricting reform and have supported the initiatives of Fair Districts PA and attended workshops and rallies in Harrisburg in support of a constitutional amendment to effect such change.

The current system for determining the types of voting districts is flawed. First, it uses two separate methods for creating Congressional districts and the State Senatorial and House districts. The latter is described in the PA State Constitution. The Congressional districts are inherently partisan following the same methods used for passing bills into law. And in both cases the group that works on creating boundaries are political appointees.

Q: 2020 marks the 30th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act. However, many barriers still exist for people with disabilities. What will you do as a state legislator to improve accessibility for people with disabilities across the Commonwealth?

A: It is a travesty that many of our polling places in Pennsylvania are not fully accessible as described by the Americans with Disability Act including problems with entrances, route from parking lot to entrance, and the voting area. I would support legislation and funding requiring every polling place to avail a safe and accessible space to vote for every voter. I will also work diligently to promote legislation which: improves disability service protects the rights of and empowers members of the disabled community and provide them technical and training assistance; so people with disabilities can live the lives they choose

Craig Williams Party: Rep Biographical Info: Mailing Address: 61 Running Brook Road Glen Mills, PA 19342 Questions: Q: Access to the ballot box is one of the most important rights for a citizen. Although Pennsylvania recently modernized its election code, there are other reforms that would further modernize Pennsylvania’s elections. If elected, what reforms would you support to ensure that all citizens who want to vote are able to securely, privately, and independently cast a ballot?

A: Candidate did not respond.

Q: While there have been some positive legislative actions recently, partisan gridlock in Harrisburg has taken its toll, and many people feel that Pennsylvania’s state government is dysfunctional. What types of reforms, if any, would you support to make the legislative process in Harrisburg more effective?

A: Candidate did not respond.

Q: Do you support a state constitutional amendment to form an independent commission to redraw Congressional and legislative districts? Why or why not?

A: Candidate did not respond.

Q: 2020 marks the 30th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act. However, many barriers still exist for people with disabilities. What will you do as a state legislator to improve accessibility for people with disabilities across the Commonwealth?

A: Candidate did not respond.

Pennsylvania Representative District 167 Description of office: The General Assembly is the legislative branch of government in Pennsylvania.

It is composed of two houses: the Senate is the upper house, and the House of Representatives is the lower house. A majority vote in both houses is necessary to pass a law. The House of Representatives consists of 203 members. Representatives must be at least 21 years old, have been citizens and lived in their respective districts one year before their election, and must live in their districts during their terms of service.

Term: 2 years Salary: $90,335 Vote for ONE.

Candidates (choose 1):

Kristine Howard Party: Dem Biographical Info: County: Chester County Mailing Address: PO Box 252 Malvern, PA 19355 Education: University of Pennsylvania, Rutgers Law Qualifications: My background includes serving as Director of a legal aid clinic, providing legal representation to children in foster care and working a a child abuse investigator. In 2018 I was elected State Rep in 167th District and serve on Human Services, Children and Youth and Finance Committees in the House. campaign website: http://www.KristineHoward.com Facebook: http://Kristine Howard for PA State Rep Twitter: http://@KristineforPA Questions: Q: Access to the ballot box is one of the most important rights for a citizen. Although Pennsylvania recently modernized its election code, there are other reforms that would further modernize Pennsylvania’s elections. If elected, what reforms would you support to ensure that all citizens who want to vote are able to securely, privately, and independently cast a ballot?

A: In the legislature, I supported the bill that legalized vote by mail in Pennsylvania. I support further expanding voting by mail by going to an all mail-in election where all voters are sent ballots in the mail and the application process is eliminated. If we cannot achieve this reform permanently at this time, then I believe we should establish it temporarily as long as COVID-19 remains a threat.

I support automatic voter registration when an individual attains their 18th birthday. In the absence of full-on vote by mail, I support same day registration on election days.

I support establishing and widely expanding in-person early voting.

I support paper back-up voting systems.

I oppose photo identification laws.

Q: While there have been some positive legislative actions recently, partisan gridlock in Harrisburg has taken its toll, and many people feel that Pennsylvania’s state government is dysfunctional. What types of reforms, if any, would you support to make the legislative process in Harrisburg more effective?

A: I believe the most critical reform we can make is fair and balanced redistricting. As it is today with the aid of sophisticated voter databases, district lines are drawn in such a way that highly partisan election jurisdictions are created that incentivize legislators at all levels to continually curry favor with their bases and resist compromise and consensus for fear of being challenged in their primary elections from the right or left respectively.

Also, committee chairs have too much power. A chair can single-handedly and capriciously bury legislation in committee. We need a mechanism to get legislation out of committee to be considered by the legislature as a whole where it often has enough votes to pass in a bipartisan way.

Q: Do you support a state constitutional amendment to form an independent commission to redraw Congressional and legislative districts? Why or why not?

A: I do not favor tampering with our constitution when the legislature has the power to address issues on our own. I am also reluctant to convene a constitutional convention that could open up other constitutional protections to revision or elimination. However, if the legislature fails to address the issue of fair redistricting, I would support amending the constitution. Unfortunately, if we cannot muster the votes to to reform redistricting legislatively, it is unlikely we can find the votes to amend the constitution and I fear the compromises we would have to make to convene a constitutional convention would be a non-starter for me.

The best option is to elect a new majority, a majority that works in Harrisburg.

Q: 2020 marks the 30th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act. However, many barriers still exist for people with disabilities. What will you do as a state legislator to improve accessibility for people with disabilities across the Commonwealth?

A: We must prioritize addressing existing barriers for employment of people with disabilities.

Many workplaces are not covered by the accessibility rules that apply to public places of commerce.

We need to address: - Physical environments that are difficult to navigate or simply inaccessible - To often workplaces Lack technologies and/or assistive tools to help the disabled better function on the job. - People with disabilities often encounter a lack of understanding or negative attitudes from co-workers and supervisors - Many places of employment come up short when it comes to services and policies in the workplace that facilitate and protect disabled workers The state needs to financially incentivize employers to address these issues.

Wendy Graham Leland Party: Rep Biographical Info: Mailing Address: Questions: Q: Access to the ballot box is one of the most important rights for a citizen. Although Pennsylvania recently modernized its election code, there are other reforms that would further modernize Pennsylvania’s elections. If elected, what reforms would you support to ensure that all citizens who want to vote are able to securely, privately, and independently cast a ballot?

A: Candidate did not respond.

Q: While there have been some positive legislative actions recently, partisan gridlock in Harrisburg has taken its toll, and many people feel that Pennsylvania’s state government is dysfunctional. What types of reforms, if any, would you support to make the legislative process in Harrisburg more effective?

A: Candidate did not respond.

Q: Do you support a state constitutional amendment to form an independent commission to redraw Congressional and legislative districts? Why or why not?

A: Candidate did not respond.

Q: 2020 marks the 30th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act. However, many barriers still exist for people with disabilities. What will you do as a state legislator to improve accessibility for people with disabilities across the Commonwealth?

A: Candidate did not respond.

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