Incumbent, newcomer campaign for District 13 Representative seat
People before politics: Sue Walker charges toward Harrisburg
By Richard L. Gaw Staff Writer
Sue Walker, the Democratic candidate for State Representative in District 13, has lived with her husband, Mike, and their two sons, Zach and Ryan, in Franklin Township for the past 20 years, and by all accounts, her life and the life of her family is firmly entrenched in the economic, educational and social fabric of Chester County.
The boys went through a public education here, and for the past 14 years, Walker has worked in the
Avon Grove School District as a volunteer coordinator, Title I instructor for reading remediation, and currently manages the high school library. Even the family’s two dogs, Lucy and Brody, are Great Danes, the official state dog of Pennsylvania.
Yet, during the late evening of Nov. 8, 2016, as she and Mike watched the results of the presidential election at their Landenberg home, the “Jersey” in Walker came out.
“When Donald Trump announced his candidacy for the presidency, I wasn’t
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The
Lawrence wants to make state government work better for citizens
By Steven Hoffman Staff Writer
On Oct. 24, Gov. Tom Wolf signed into law Act 102 of 2018, legislation that was sponsored by State Rep. John Lawrence that protects victims of domestic violence by changing how alimony is paid during a divorce.
Lawrence started working on the legislation after one of his constituents made him aware of a major shortcoming with the existing law, which left open the possibility that a victim of domestic violence could be
ordered to pay alimony to their abusive spouse, even if the abuser had pled guilty to the crime. Act 102 of 2018 ensures that these victims will not have to pay their convicted abuser.
When Lawrence first ran for office, it was because he wanted to make the state government work better for citizens. Act 102 of 2018 is an example of that: A small, but not insignificant, piece of legislation that will improve the lives of Pennsylvania residents.
“We try to make sure that government works
Shared pain, collective healing
By Richard L. Gaw Staff Writer
As the autumn sun first began to emerge just before the start of the first KSQ Mushroom Cap 13.1 on Oct. 15, 2016 at Kennett Stadium, about one dozen members of the Weekly Fight, a local nonprofit organization created to benefit war veterans and their families, stood still while one member held the American flag high in front of him.
Then they took off, down the crimson lanes of the high school track, leading 700 other runners out into the Kennett Square morning and through the countryside of southern Chester County. It was a partnership of newcomers: a newly-formed
group of former veterans, running at a brand-new half marathon and its charitable organization, Run2Shine, Inc.
In 2017, their numbers grew to 20 competitors, and on Nov. 3, as the annual Mushroom Cap 13.1 celebrates its third year, the legion of participants with the Weekly Fight will include 32 veterans and their families.
“Being a part of the Mushroom Cap 13.1 every year continues to create an awareness of who we are,” said retired Marine Sergeant Major Marty Kenny, who started The Weekly Fight in 2016 after one of Kenny’s Marines committed suicide after battling with Post-
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Students produce video urging others to ‘See Something, Say Something’
By John Chambless Staff Writer
The catastrophic consequences of ignoring warning signs from troubled students have been seen far too often. In the wake of school shootings nationwide, there are reports that the shooter had posted online threats, said something that other students heard, and then gone on to commit violence.
Sandy Hook Promise is
a national non-profit organization founded and led by several family members whose loved ones were killed at Sandy Hook Elementary School on Dec. 14, 2012. As part of their message, “See Something, Say Something” has inspired schools nationwide to adopt practices that may head off a school shooting.
At Unionville High School, a group of students, teachers and administrators
Something, Say Something’ program in Unionville-Chadds Ford schools.
have put together a video that, in just over two minutes, lays out the message: Let a trusted adult know if you hear or see a student making threats. A video posted on the UnionvilleChadds Ford School District website last week begins with a tracking shot of the school cafeteria and library, and then cuts to students, teachers and administrators speaking directly to the camera. “If you hear rumors or threats,” one student says, followed by another saying, “or see any inappropriate posts on social media,” and then a third student saying, “We need you to come forward.” The video later features adults such as district superintendent John Sanville, who says, “We need everyone to work together.”
It’s a somber but inspirational two minutes, and it benefits from the fact that the
project was largely studentled and student-produced.
John Nolen, the district’s assistant superintendent, said last week, “The school
district’s Wellness Council reviewed several resources that provide similar services. This resource
Students worked for three weeks to produce a video highlighting the ‘See
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Sue Walker has lived in Franklin Township for the past 20 years.
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State Rep. John Lawrence discusses a piece of legislation on the floor of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives.
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Formed in 2016, The Weekly Fight helps to forge a bond between veterans and their communities, in an effort to help maximize their civilian potential.
Turn your clocks back one hour on Sunday, Nov. 4
Weekly Fight...
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Traumatic Stress Disorder.
“The whole driver behind what we do is to focus on the positive, to give these veterans opportunities to learn ways of moving forward.
I’ve met several veterans who are amputees, and many of them are incredibly high on life.
“What The Weekly Fight does is to pair them with other veterans, and give them the mindset to understand that if their fellow veteran who has had setbacks in his or her life can still feel this way, that they can learn from that and begin to feel the same way.”
Through weekly workouts – running, calisthenics, weightlifting and strength and agility sessions – as well as meetings, seminars and community events, The Weekly Fight is dedicated to transforming the victims of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder into the recipients of post-traumatic growth and opportunity.
“Since what we do is teambased training, it’s become what I call ‘shared pain,’
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a level of service, support and training that others did not. It also has a curriculum connected with it to support the program goals. The Wellness Council was impressed with the educational component, which was not present with the other vendors. Also, this program comes with no charge, as it is grant-funded.
Kenny said. “Our workouts take them back to their experiences in the military, and it begins to form bonds between our members. It gives them back the camaraderie that they knew when they were serving their country, and it tells their brothers and sisters, ‘I am not only suffering through this workout next to you, but I am suffering with you.’”
What first began with a 10-person workout in January 2016 has now grown to free weekly workouts for veterans, first responders and their families at four locations in Frazer, Oxford, Lancaster and Manayunk –with the strong possibility of linking three additional locations by the end of 2018.
“When I first started I had no idea what I wanted to do or what it was going to be,”
Kenny said. “I had guilted an original group into coming, but it eventually morphed to the point where I made it a 501c3 organization, so that it can be used to raise money to help veterans and their families.”
These workouts are now also open to the general public. It’s forged a bond
“Pennsylvania has now chosen Sandy Hook Promise to develop and run the ‘Safe2Say Something’ program which all school districts in the state will need to use,” Nolen added. “This is advantageous to the district, as we have already had extensive training in this program through Sandy Hook Promise and are ready to implement.”
Unionville student Richard Childs, who
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between veterans and their communities, Kenny said.
“It’s been amazing to see the light bulbs go off with the civilians,” he said. “Being around veterans gives them a vantage point of understanding what they have gone through. While it’s great to say ‘Thank you’ to a veteran for his or her service, it’s better to engage with veterans and hear about their journey, and what they’re presently doing.”
While the general road map of the annual Mushroom Cap 13.1 has its share of inclines, it does not come close to the many hills and obstacles that stand in the way of groups like The Weekly Fight and the services – and healing – they provide to veterans and their families. The statistics are startling: In the past two years, suicide has outranked war, cancer, heart disease, homicide, transportation accidents and other causes as the leading killer of U.S. veterans, accounting for about three in 10 military deaths each of those two years.
The U.S. Department of
worked on the video, said, “During a meeting of The Principal Advisory Council, we were discussing plans on how to show the school Sandy Hook Promise’s ‘See Something, Say Something’ movement. And we were inspired by a similar video done by Downingtown West. It was very well done, and we knew that we could do one just as good to make our school proud.”
Steve Ortega, a technology
Veterans Affairs estimates that PTSD afflicts about 31 percent of Vietnam veterans, 10 percent of Gulf War (Desert Storm) veterans, and 11 percent of veterans of the war in Afghanistan. In 2013, the VA released a study that covered suicides from 1999 to 2010, which showed that an average of 22 veterans were taking their own lives every day, or about one veteran every 65 minutes.
“Nobody wants to talk about suicide,” Kenny said. “It’s uncomfortable, but if we don’t talk about it and bring it out into the open, we don’t educate ourselves and others. PTSD is part of our ‘fight or flight’ mechanism, and people who have never gone through it naturally do not understand what it means.”
An expanding infrastructure and a continually evolving identity forms only a fraction of what The Weekly Fight has become. It’s also become a teller of stories of triumph in the face of adversity, none more compelling than the slow journey of Ed Eddinger, a member of The Weekly
and engineering education teacher at Unionville High School, said, “The students that led the effort to create the video are involved in the TV/Video Production courses. They range from level one to level four students. For some, it was the first time participating in a production of this scale, and others are looking to attend film school in the fall.”
Student Lily Crosley said, “The students who were reading the lines, specifically, were a random sampling pulled from class on shooting days. … We are just normal students in the TV/Film production class.
Fight who had run in the first Mushroom Cap 13.1 in 2016.
In the early hours of Nov. 8, 2016, Eddinger, a veteran and bicycle enthusiast, was struck by a traveling vehicle
Because we have amazing resources like cameras, lights, and editing software, and know how to use them from learning in class, teachers and faculty know we can make really cool, cinematic videos. I specifically worked the camera, adjusting things like shutter and aperture to achieve the real-life studio, cinematic look, and edited the whole video and audio together.”
For Ortega, the experience of leading the students through the whole process was a valuable learning tool. “As part of the TV/ Video Production course, I generally look to the school
community for input and ideas for videos that the students can work to create,” he said. “Using outside groups as a ‘client’ for the students in the class gives them the experience of working with another person’s ideas or goals as they plan and produce a video product. ... I jumped at the opportunity to have the students work on the project.” The diversity of the student and administrator voices was carefully planned, according to student Sara Belles. “We all come from different areas of the school. We have football players, cheerleaders, stage kids, club leaders, actors, and artists,” she said. “The seven of us got involved by taking a production class that was then asked to make this video. We just want to see the school shift for our younger classmates.”
Student Josephine Rodriguez said, “We chose the students in the video because we believed they represented different parts of our school. Between football, soccer, cheer, theater and Best Buddies, we have students from each area to speak to the rest of the school. Much like the way we chose students, we chose teachers that came from all over the school. One of the staff members was our security guard and
while riding his bike near Limerick, Pa. The accident left him with only limited cognitive functions and confined him to a wheelchair, but with the help of his brothers and sisters at Student
Photo by Richard L. Gaw
Members of The Weekly Fight stand during the National Anthem before the start of the first Mushroom Cap 13.1 half marathon on Oct. 15, 2016. A total of 32 runners will represent the group at this year’s race on Nov. 3.
The Weekly Fight, Eddinger participated at the start of the 2017 Mushroom Cap 13.1, while in a wheelchair.
On Nov. 3, he plans to run the first leg of the annual race.
“For a very long time, Ed was a great Marine who wasn’t able to figure out things,” Kenny said. “But he continued to push through, and people kept prodding him to move forward, and by last year, he was working with us on a part-time basis.
“Ed is recovering remarkably and working out in an effort to get back in the shape he was in. It’s been amazing to see him go from a hospital bed to where he is now.”
Getting back to the Mushroom Cap 13.1 has become Eddinger’s mission, Kenny said, and it’s one of 32 private – and shared –missions that will approach the starting line on Nov. 3.
To learn more about The Weekly Fight, visit www. theweeklyfight.org, or visit on Facebook.
To contact Staff Writer Richard L. Gaw, email rgaw@chestercounty.com.
New start/finish for this year’s Mushroom Cap 13.1
By Richard L. Gaw Staff Writer
For the 700 runners who competed in each of the first two Mushroom Cap 13.1 half marathons in 2016 and 2017, the beginning and the end of their journeys was the track at Kennett Stadium, but as an equal amount of competitors line up for the start of this year’s race on Nov. 3, they’ll be doing so in another part of the town.
For the first time, the race will begin and end at the refurbished Kennett Creamery on Birch Street, beginning at 8 a.m. From there, it will wind its way along Walnut and South Union streets, meander through the neighborhoods along Mulberry Street, Cedar Croft Road and Locust and Dean streets, head north on Wollaston Road to Poplar Tree Road and then head south on Mill Road, and eventually, return to the Creamery.
The Mushroom Cap 13.1 will continue to offer
runners the opportunity to participate in a relay, which will allow runners to share the distance of a half marathon. The lead runner will start the race and meet up with his or her partner at the Mill Road/Route 926 exchange point, and the second runner will conclude the race at the Creamery.
Those who are looking to compete in a smaller competition can enter the Mushroom Cap’s Charity 1-mile event, beginning at 8:30 a.m., that will take runners and walkers alike along Birch, Broad, East South and South Walnut streets. All net proceeds from this all-ages race will be donated to Unite For Her, a local organization that assists breast cancer patients before, during and after therapy. Donations and registration can be made on-site.
zone, live bands, food trucks and beer.
At the core of each race is the commitment to give back to the community. At its first grant-giving celebration, Run2Shine, Inc., the fundraising wing of the KSQ Mushroom Cap 13.1, donated a total of $16,000 to three beneficiaries: The Garage Community & Youth Center, Family Promise of Southern Chester County and The Genesis Employee Foundation, at its gala celebration held at the Marketplace at Kennett Square.
In 2017, a total of $17,000 was awarded in grants to Family Promise of Southern Chester County, the Kennett Education Foundation, The Garage Community & Youth Center, and The Weekly Fight.
“We get so busy performing each task related to the preparation of the race that we often overlook the fact that this race impacts so many lives in our community,” said Run2shine, Inc. co-founder Sarah Nurry, who began the KSQ Mushroom Cap 13.1
takes, syncing audio, and compiling the clips into the final edit. They also worked with our music teacher to arrange the audio.”
cially our editor, Lily, who had to edit this entire video by herself in a week.”
The event will kick off at 6:45 with Sunrise Yoga, taught by teacher Kelly Kuder, and conclude with the Mushroom Cap Finish Line Festival, beginning at 9:00 a.m. at the Kennett Creamery, which will include a kids fun football coach, who would always say ‘Hi’ to every student, so we chose him because he was well known throughout the school.”
The project came together over three weeks, Ortega said. “The students worked together with the administration, teachers and students to plan and execute the video. They filmed three to five people a day during their class period, and spent the better part of a week choosing the right
“To say it was a bit of a time squish would be accurate, but we did it,” Belles said. “We worked through the troubles of having to film during Spirit Week, along with also having six other classes a day, plus after-school activities. I’m so proud of my crew for finishing this on time, espe-
The video is a direct, powerful statement that leaves an impression.
“My best hopes for this video are that it will make students at school realize the importance of speaking out and doing the right thing,” Belles said. “Unionville places a lot of focus on the safety of their students and this video was made in hopes of bringing
the same idea to the vast student body.”
Student Richard Childs added, “I just want this video to change something. I want people to feel something when they watch it. I want it to help someone understand that sometimes saying something is all it takes to be a hero. This movement is simple and our video is simple. But watch it and listen, and please speak out.”
Crosley said, “I hope the
race with Karen DiMascola in 2016. “We’re very fortunate to see that so many relationships between organizations happen as a result of the race. While Karen and I firmly believe that being able to distribute funding to so many groups is important, that it’s the synergy of partnerships, formed between people and organizations, that has come to define what the Mushroom Cap 13.1 is really all about.” For complete information on the Mushroom Cap 13.1 half marathon, and to register, visit www.mushroomcaphalf.com.
video will not only show students and faculty the importance of safety, specifically against things like gun violence, bullying and fighting, but also show members of the whole community, like parents and political leaders, that change is needed now to protect students and faculty in schools.
“For most of my young life, violence in schools has been prevalent,” Crosley added. “I hope people see
To contact Staff Writer Richard L. Gaw, email rgaw@chestercounty.com.
the video, along with the progressive, amazing work Sandy Hook is doing, and advocate and protest for positive change with regards to safety for everyone -- not only in schools but also in society as a whole.”
There is a link to the video from the school district’s website, www.ucfsd.org.
To contact Staff Writer John Chambless, email jchambless@chestercounty. com.
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for citizens, including the people who live in the 13th District,” Lawrence explained during a recent interview as he campaigns for a fifth term representing the 13th Legislative District in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives. The 13th Legislative District is comprised of four boroughs and 13 townships in Chester County and two municipalities in Lancaster County. Lawrence is being opposed by Democrat Sue Walker in the election on Tuesday, Nov. 6.
Ever since he was elected to the State House in 2010, Lawrence has been a champion for government reform, an advocate for fiscal responsibility, and a proponent for smaller government. His values and views don’t change because another Election Day is approaching. He points to his record as a consistent voice on issues like government reform and fiscal accountability, and to his work serving the constituents in the 13th District as reasons why he wants to return to the State House in 2019.
As a lifelong resident of the area, Lawrence has focused on local issues that impact the community. He and the staff in his office have earned wide praise for how responsive they are to residents who reach out to them for some type of assistance with an issue.
“In a year, we’ll get 7,500 district inquiries,” Lawrence explained. “Those inquiries can be for any number of things, such as help navigating the complexities of state government.”
For example, a person might seek information about who to contact at a particular state agency to get an issue resolved, or someone might need help cutting through the red tape to obtain a professional license from the state.
“We have a lot of folks who come into the office, and we’re able to help them,” Lawrence said.
He has also been helpful when it comes to local issues where he can help navigate through the governmental bureaucracy. One example is the much-needed improvements to the intersection of Route 796 and
Old Baltimore Pike in Penn Township. PennDOT had told Lawrence that there would be a 20-year wait to undertake such a large project, but Lawrence was able to facilitate the process of getting various stakeholders together to work on the issue.
“We were able to put together the funding, and we were able to get that project moved forward. I’m really excited about that,” Lawrence explained.
Over the last few years, officials in Oxford Borough have been working on a plan to construct a parking garage as a way to encourage economic development in the downtown and to address the need for more parking. Lawrence has been involved in various aspects of the effort, including helping to secure some state funding through grants. The parking garage project could be a major piece of Oxford’s revitalization efforts.
In addition to the work on local issues, being a state lawmaker also means making many different and difficult decisions about how the state allocates and balances a $32 billion budget.
One of Lawrence’s overarching goals has been to steer the state’s finances in a more responsible direction so that the burden on taxpayers can be lessened.
“Pennsylvania faces some difficult financial challenges,” Lawrence acknowledged.
One of the most important duties of the state legislature is to adequately fund public schools, and education funding is a major part of the annual spending plan.
Lawrence said that education continues to be a top priority. He explained that one of the most important duties of the state government is ensuring that students attend quality public schools.
“I have fought hard to prioritize education spending in the state budget,” he said. “This year’s state budget delivered more money to our local school districts than any previous year.”
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Lawrence worked with legislators from both sides of the aisle to ensure that the New Bolton Center kept its level of funding.
While everyone favors quality education, funding schools at the appropriate level remains an enormous challenge.
Lawrence explained that when he’s out campaigning or just shopping at the grocery store, the number-one issue that residents in the 13th District ask him about is still school property taxes, which are directly related to the level of state funding for education. If the state decreases its percentage share of education funding, a greater burden is placed on local property owners.
“It’s the number-one issue in the 13th District,” Lawrence said of property taxes. “Many folks, in particular seniors, are being taxed out of their homes. In recent years, most of the increase in school taxes is due to the vastly underfunded teacher’s pension system, and the requirement for the state and the school districts to contribute more to those pension plans.”
cal crisis facing the state pension systems, which are woefully underfunded due to poor budget decisions made by governors (Tom) Ridge and (Ed) Rendell, and the Republican and Democrat legislators who enabled them.”
Lawrence emphasized that the state has an obligation to meet when it comes to the teachers’ pensions.
“I am committed to keeping the pension promises made to teachers,” Lawrence said. “I’ve been a relentless voice that we have to fund the pension system. This year we made all of our contributions to the pension funds. I voted to designate $2.26 billion to PSERS, the teachers’ pension system. By way of comparison, that’s almost the same amount the state put into PSERS during the entire eight years of the Rendell administration. I will continue to strongly advocate making responsible payments to fund the state pension systems. We must keep our promises to retirees.”
Lawrence, it was an issue of financial accountability.
Lawrence is a member of the House Agriculture and Rural Affairs Committee, which approved a resolution calling on Pennsylvania Auditor General Eugene DePasquale to conduct a financial audit of 118 nonpoint source projects that had been approved by the Pennsylvania Infrastructure Investment Authority (PENNVEST) board of directors, including the $50 million loan.
Lawrence has been concerned about the state debt and the burden that is being left for future generations of taxpayers. He has advocated for reducing the state’s debt, and for keeping a close watch on all the debt of state-related agencies to ensure that taxpayer money is being used responsibly. Lawrence sponsored legislation that was aimed at reducing Pennsylvania’s debt burden by requiring the administration to use responsible debt management practices by repaying new capital debt by using a level principal payment approach, which would save taxpayer dollars by reducing the amount of money spent on interest payments. The legislation received bipartisan support and passed the State House by a vote of 188-2 and was unanimously approved in the State Senate. However, the legislation was then vetoed by Gov. Wolf.
reason that he originally ran for office: It’s the opportunity to make government work better for the citizens of Pennsylvania. It’s the opportunity to be a voice in government for those who would otherwise not have a voice. It’s working on legislation like what became Act 102 of 2018. Not everyone will be affected by legislation regarding domestic domestic violence and alimony payments, but for those who are affected, the legislation is critically important. In order to get legislation that was signed into law, Lawrence worked with lawmakers from both sides of the aisle, enlisted support and help from the Domestic Coalition Against Violence, and shepherded the bill through the approval process.
“That’s how it’s supposed to work,” Lawrence said. “Somebody sees a law that needs to be changed, and we work together through the process to make a change. I appreciate Gov. Tom Wolf’s approval of my bill. I have heard from victims of domestic violence all over the state who have been ordered by a judge to pay alimony to their abusive soon-to-be ex-spouse. This legislation corrects that injustice to ensure that, going forward, people will not have to pay their abuser.”
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Oxford Borough is ready and able to cooperate with East Nottingham and Lower Oxford in a regional effort. Kennett Borough could efficiently regionalize with Kennett Township’s small police force and East Marlborough. Reliance on an overworked, small state police barracks is no longer feasible. Cheapskate supervisors are risking serious public safety issues by sitting on their hands, worried about rising real estate millage, when public school districts are jacking up millage 2 to 3 percent annually.
(This is an occasional column written by Uncle Irvin. As always, the column is the opinion of Uncle Irvin, and is not a news story.)
The State Legislature set aside $60 million that is being made available to Pennsylvania’s schools to ensure school safety, and Lawrence sponsored a bill that would give parents the ability to opt-out of the Keystone Exams for their children with no negative penalties to the student, parent, or teacher.
During the budget process, Gov. Wolf proposed eliminating some funding to the New Bolton Center Veterinary School, and
Lawrence has supported a number of proposals to address the issue of high property taxes. One piece of legislation that he sponsored, which unanimously passed the House, would have dedicated all revenue from casino table games to property tax relief. He also voted in support of House Bill 76, which would have eliminated school property taxes and shifted the tax burden by increasing broader taxes like the state sales tax and the personal income tax.
The state’s pension system crisis has caused local property taxes to skyrocket over the last decade. Teachers have always fully paid into the pension system, but the state did not. For years, the state under-funded the pension system as a way of balancing the budget, allowing the deficit to grow and grow.
According to Lawrence, “Rising school taxes are directly related to the fis-
One way to meet all the state’s financial obligations is providing oversight to how taxpayer money is being spent, and eliminating waste whenever possible.
Lawrence said that he interceded and pointed out the inappropriateness of a $12 million expenditure to renovate the Penn State University president’s suite at the football stadium.
Lawrence was also one of the lawmakers who sounded the alarm about the $50 million low-interest loan that the state was planning to make to a politically connected New Hampshire-based private timber company to purchase timberland in northwest Pennsylvania. The funds for the loan came from a taxpayer-subsidized state program that is, by law, is required to fund improvements to water and sewer plants in Pennsylvania. Why should that funding go to an out-of-state company when there are so many needs in Pennsylvania that that funding could be used for? To
Many of the pieces of legislation that get approved in Harrisburg receive support from both sides of the aisle. While politics has become increasingly polarizing nationally, Lawrence said that he has always strived to work with both Republican and Democrat colleagues on legislation that benefits the citizens of Pennsylvania.
One of the things that motivated Lawrence to first run for office was the infamous midnight pay raise that state lawmakers granted themselves, without debate or public scrutiny, in 2005. At that time, state lawmakers not only granted themselves a hefty pay increase of more than 15 percent, they did so late at night and then left town. That kind of dubious was par for the course for a state legislature that worked hard at its reputation for wasteful spending and corruption.
Since he was elected to office, Lawrence has eschewed that kind of governing. He has refused the taxpayer-paid defined benefit pension. He also does not seek per diem payments and other perks, like a free state car and a cell phone.
“I advocate for legislation that holds elected officials accountable and returns power back to people,” Lawrence said.
What Lawrence likes best about his job as a state lawmaker circles back to the
The new law, which had overwhelming support in both the Houses and Senate, goes into effect in 60 days. In Office 211 in the Ryan Office Building in Harrisburg, Lawrence has a picture on his wall of state lawmakers from 1877. It’s a reminder, he said, that no one remembers any of those lawmakers today, but people are still living with the benefits and consequences of the work that they did. It’s the laws and policies that make a difference in people’s lives, not the lawmakers themselves. Taken individually, many of the pieces of legislation discussed and debated by the State House might not have a dramatic impact, but collectively the bills help improve the lives of the citizens of Pennsylvania. Lawrence would like to continue to represent the citizens of Pennsylvania when state lawmakers are dealing with issues like rising pension costs, expenses related to Medicaid, and the ongoing effort to fund public schools, while balancing all of that with the need to put the state on a course that is financially sustainable.
“My focus,” said Lawrence, “is always on what can be accomplished to improve the government for Pennsylvania citizens and the people in the 13th District.”
To contact Staff Writer Steven Hoffman, email editor@chestercounty.com.
Courtesy photo
State Rep. John Lawrence has represented the 13th Legislative District since his election in 2010.
Uncle Irvin...
John Lawrence...
one of those people who sat back and laughed,” said Walker, who was born, raised and educated in New Jersey. “I was afraid. I know the person he is. I saw what he did to Atlantic City. I saw what he did to the contractors who worked for him, who were left high and dry and not paid.
“I saw what he did to skirt immigration laws to bring in people not from that area to work. I saw how he let businesses go bankrupt, while somehow remaining fine. I saw how he treated people. His value system is not my value system.”
While it pulls its fuel from the camaraderie it has with the national groundswell of first-time political newbies, Walker’s campaign for the Pa. House of Representatives is a machine of many extremities. It’s latched onto an anti-Trump reactionary crusade, but it also digs into the particulars of its platform: healthcare, economy, public and higher education, firearms safety and infrastructure. It looks to wrangle ideas into legislation in Harrisburg, but the roots of its specifics are owned by its architect, who defines herself not as the next rock star of the reinvented Democratic party, but as a Chester County mother, wife and resident who, as her campaign slogan reads, is putting people before politics.
“The election of Donald Trump made me want to do more in an activist way,” Walker said recently from her campaign headquarters in West Grove. “I felt our
country was really going on the wrong path. You can only go to so many marches, before you realize that you want to do something more concrete. You try to find ways of changing your little corner of the world.”
Using Zach and Ryan as a timeline barometer, Walker said that throughout their entire lives, government has suffered from a lack of functionality and a disregard for fiscal accountability. Restoring both are at the top of her campaign’s platform.
“Within our government, we’re not working together enough,” she said. “We seem to have gone astray from how to civilly speak to one another, and the fine art of compromise has really taken a hit, and those who are trying to do the right thing with good intentions are often pushed out of the way, or simply become part of the process.”
Walker said that if she defeats Republican incumbent John Lawrence on Nov. 6, she’ll use the act of civil discourse in Harrisburg to address the issues, but do it with an eye toward the lives of those whom she feels are under-represented: the under-30 generation, people of color, and those from lower socio-economic backgrounds. It’s about being able to open doors of opportunity for them, she said, and it starts with education.
Walker supports increased funding for public education for her district and Pennsylvania, while holding the line on property taxes to lessen the burden on the general public. She also advocates increased
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state funding for postsecondary and technical schools, in order to prepare young people for technical careers.
“I would look at new revenue streams instead of putting everything on the backs of taxpayers,” she said. “I think we can do it by closing loopholes, having a moderate increase in capital gains taxes, or shifting our income tax burden.”
Walker also believes that higher education must be treated as an investment in the state’s future, and supports increased additional funding and grant-based aid programs. As a parent of two sons who both furthered their education at Penn State University, Walker knows first-hand the financial burden of paying for a college education, and the subsequent mountain of student loan debt that young people incur.
Often, she said, they either can’t afford to attend college, choose to continue to pay for college while accumulating more debt, or choose to leave college without having earned a degree, in the hopes that a high school diploma can open career doors for them.
“Do they take their high school diploma and try to do something with it?” Walker said. “Do they join the military – a wonderful calling – but can our military absorb millions of high school graduates every year? Or, do they continue to pay for college while taking on an average of $45,000 of student debt?
“We’re trimming to the bone, and we’re not going to be able to move forward, whether it’s investing in
our infrastructure or investing in our education,” she added. “I think education is part of our infrastructure. If we’re not giving these kids the wings they need to fly, who is going to be helping older generations?”
Recognizing the need to modernize and repair many of the more than 30,000 bridges and 40,000 miles of roadway in the state, Walker supports the details spelled out in Pa. Act 89, which will invest more than $2 billion in roadway maintenance and highway and bridge capital projects over the next 10 years.
Walker is an advocate of the Second Amendment, and agrees with the contents of the majority opinion written by Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia in the Court’s 2008 decision in District of Columbia v. Heller, which ruled that the Second Amendment protects a person’s right to bear arms. Believing that gun ownership was a right but not an unlimited one, Scalia called for imposing “reasonable limitations” on gun ownership.
Walker supports HB 2060 – passed recently in the state Senate by a vote of 43-5 that requires defendants to surrender all guns in their possession upon the imposition of a contested protection from abuse order – as well as universal background checks, and emergency removal orders for those who present a risk to themselves or others.
Other key components of Walker’s campaign include the protection of the state’s natural resources; finding ways to increase the use of renewable energy and
developing clean energy policies; supporting the local farming community; increasing the availability of and access to high-speed internet in every household, school and business in the state; and raising the state’s minimum wage, in order to stimulate the economy and an individual’s purchase power.
Walker also believes that women should have the right to decide their own healthcare, just as men also have the right to decide their own healthcare.
“One of the best ways to avoid unwanted pregnancies is through accessibility and affordability to contraception, whether it’s through a clinic, a family doctor, or an outlet such as Planned Parenthood,” she said. “I think women and men need to be responsible for that, and that’s often left out of the conversation. Men have to be involved in this conversation, as well. Having that medical provider be accessible and affordable is huge. It’s traceable to the strength of an economy.”
Walker pointed to a photo-
graph of Zach and Ryan that appears on her campaign literature. Her aspirations for Harrisburg are about them, she said, and the students she sees throughout the school year at Avon Grove High School.
“We have poverty and social injustice because, by and large, we’ve stopped listening to each other, to the rest of the world, and we need to get back to finding the greater good,” she said. “We need some more grown-ups in the room to put their egos aside, and fix it. Let’s think differently. Let’s innovate our way out of this. Instead of saying that these systems are broken and retreating to our respective corners, let’s say things are possible.
“I think there is a need and desire for change, and I realized that if I really wanted to see change, I needed to have a seat at the table.”
To learn more about Candidate Sue Walker, visit www.suewalkerpa13.com.
To contact Staff Writer Richard L. Gaw, email rgaw@chestercounty.com.
Courtesy photo
Walker with her two sons, Zach and Ryan.
Sue Walker...
Community reaches out after a fatal fire
Gofundme account is gathering donations
By John Chambless Staff Writer
A neighbor has stepped up to help an Oxford area family that was struck by tragedy last week.
A house fire reported on the morning of Oct. 26 claimed the life of a 17-yearold girl and has left her family homeless. The family is now staying with Chris and Barbara Phelan, who also live on the property.
“The mother who survived the fire is now with her boyfriend and his family who also reside on the property,” neighbor Jennie Leary wrote to The Chester County Press on Oct. 28. “We have started a gofundme to raise money for whatever they may need -- funeral costs, a new apartment, clothing, household items, etc.”
Letter to the Editor
Lawrence is a reformer working for us
Letter to the Editor:
Election Day is next Tuesday. I am writing to tell you about John Lawrence, a person I have known for years.
proposals, and his bill to redirect all tax revenue from casino table games directly towards property tax relief passed the House unanimously.
John is keeping the promises made to our teachers. As a retired public school teacher, I feel this is very important. Just this year, John voted to put almost as much money into PSERS (the teacher’s pension system) as Gov. Rendell put in total during all of the eight years he was Governor.
while going through a divorce. Imagine a judge ordering you to pay a man who pled guilty to abusing you. John knew that had to change, and he brought together Democrats and Republicans in the House and Senate to do it.
The $5,000 goal of the campaign was well underway as of Monday morning, with several donors offering words of sympathy and comfort to the family.
Donations can be made at: www.gofundme.com/ help-for-oxford-familytragic-fire
To contact Staff Writer John Chambless, email jchambless@chestercounty. com.
In the gofundme posting, Leary wrote, “The local fire department and paramedics arrived in just minutes, but it was too late. Friends and family stood by in horror and disbelief, learning that the family’s daughter did not make it out of the house. The Red Cross donated vouchers for food and clothing, but we cannot imagine all the things still needed, as all belongings were lost.”
John’s opponents are smearing him with complete misstatements, and I want to set the record straight. John is serious about education and property tax reform. He strongly supported this year’s state budget, which commits more state funding to public education than ever before. He also voted for school safety and security grants that will go to Avon Grove, Oxford, and Octorara, to ensure our kids are safe at school. John has supported several property tax relief
John is serious about protecting victims of domestic violence. He wrote a new law, signed by Gov. Wolf, to make sure that a victim of domestic violence would not have to pay alimony to her convicted abuser
John is serious about fiscal responsibility. He put legislation on the Governor’s desk that would reform how the state issues debt, saving taxpayers millions. He is serious about government reform, refusing to take legislative perks and a state pension. He has held dozens of town hall meetings, and posts all of the expenses in his office online for the sake of transparency and accountability.
This is the John
Lawrence I know –someone who knows how to work across the aisle to solve problems. John stands up for us, regular, everyday citizens who live here in Southern Chester County. This election has been over the top. John’s opponents have attacked him for everything under the sun, distorting his record, trying to paint John as greedy and someone who doesn’t care about us. I wanted to write this letter to tell the real story of the person I know. I encourage you to get out and vote for State Rep. John Lawrence on Nov. 6.
voice of support for Eric Roe
Letter to the Editor:
As the Nov. 6 election approaches, I want to put in a good word for State Rep. Eric Roe. In an otherwise polarized and partisan election cycle, Eric Roe has proven that he’s willing to put people above politics. That’s why he’ll have my vote. His leadership against unfair gerrymandering is probably the best example of his integrity. In a world where politicians seem so self-serving, Eric proposed a bill to
take legislators out of the redistricting process and use a citizen commission to draw district boundary lines instead. He also declined the lavish pension and per diems offered to State Reps. I care about the education of our youth since they are the future of our country. I read about the historic funding Rep. Roe provided for our schools, and I’m impressed that he did it without raising taxes. He also fought against raising the sales tax, the personal income tax,
and taxes on everyday household items.
I was pleased to hear that Rep. Roe was a co-sponsor on a domestic violence bill that would protect women and children by requiring abusive partners to give up their guns to lawenforcement authorities within 24 hours of being convicted of domestic abuse, instead of the previous 60 days they were given. The law passed. Women are safer for it.
Finally, Rep. Roe helped pass the
“Stoneleigh Law,” to protect our beautiful and historic open spaces from being seized by eminent domain to be built upon. We have enough development where I live, and I for one want to protect our beautiful hills and farms. Keep local politics local; don’t let the noise at the national level distract you. Eric Roe deserves your vote on Nov. 6 and he’ll certainly have mine.
A 17-year-old girl was killed in a house fire on the morning of Oct. 26, and neighbors are raising money for the family.
Susan Hancock Upper Oxford Township
Kathy Pratt West Goshen Township
America’s Rifle
“Needless to say, there is nothing ‘reasonable’ or moderate about banning what is literally the most popular class of rifles in America.”
NRA’s Institute for Legislative Action
Beginning in 1959, the ArmaLite company designed and developed the very first ArmaLite Rifles. Soon after, the company sold the rights to Colt, which continued to manufacture the rifle under the “AR” name, and redesigned the rifle by relocating its charging handle to the rear of the receiver, which was then marketed to, and adopted by, the U.S. Military as the fully-automatic M16 rifle.
Despite manufacturing regulations – and in light of the 1986 passage of the Hughes Amendment to the Firearms Owners Protection Act that banned the manufacturing of fully-automatic firearms for the general public – there is now a conversion device on the market that allows the owner to shoot an AR-15 continuously until the trigger is released. It costs about $500, and it promises owners that it will turn a basic AR-15 into a nearly fullyautomatic rifle. Civilians also have the freedom to customize their AR-15 with the use of barrels, stocks and optics.
Each rifle can be wrapped in several varieties of covers and colors, suitable to the owner.
Sales of the AR-15 semiautomatic rifle are soaring. The National Rifle Association has called the AR-15 the “most popular rifle in America,” proclaiming that “AR” really stands for “America’s Rifle.”
The organization estimates that 8 million are currently owned in the U.S., and it’s been attached in its market-
Flush with the success of the rifle, Colt developed an alternate version that could be used by civilians, a semiautomatic near-replica they called the AR-15. While they closely resemble each other externally, the AR-15 and M16 differ greatly in their functionality. The hammer and trigger mechanisms are designed differently, and the bolt carrier and internal lower receiver of the semi-automatic versions are milled differently, so that the firing mechanisms are not interchangeable. Firing a semiautomatic firearm requires the owner to pull and release the trigger after each shot.
ing campaigns to heroism, political resistance and enjoyment, and in some parts of the U.S., it is marketed to children for use at target shooting competitions.
On July 20, 2012, James Eagan Holmes entered the Century 16 movie theater in Aurora, Colo. During a midnight showing of the film, The Dark Knight Rises and, with multiple firearms including an AR-15 semiautomatic rifle, he shot into the audience and killed 12 people and injured 58 more.
On Dec. 14, 2012, 20-yearold Adam Lanza, using a Bushmaster XM-15 series semi-automatic rifle, fatally shot 20 children at the Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Conn.
On Dec. 2, 2015, Syed Rizwan Farook and Tashfeen Malik, using AR-15-style rifles, killed 14 people and seriously injured 22 others at the Inland Regional Center in San Bernardino, Calif.
On June 12, 2016, Omar Mateen, a 29-year-old security guard, killed 49 people and wounded 53 others in a terrorist attack inside Pulse, a gay nightclub in Orlando, Florida, United States. Orlando Police Department
(OPD) officers shot and killed him after a three-hour standoff. He was armed with a semi-automatic rifle.
On Oct. 1, 2017, Stephen Paddock fired more than 1,100 rounds from semi-automatic rifles from his hotel room on the 32nd floor of the Mandalay Bay Hotel, in the direction of the Route 91 Harvest Musical Festival going on beneath him. He killed 58 people and left 851 injured.
On Nov. 5, 2017, 26-yearold Devin Patrick Kelley drove to the First Baptist Church in Sutherland Springs, Texas, wearing tactical gear, a ballistic vest, and a black mask that featured a white skull. Wielding a Ruger AR-556 semi-automatic rifle, he entered the church where a service had just begun, opened fire and killed 26 parishioners and injured 20 others.
On Feb. 14, 2018, using a semi-automatic weapon, 19-year-old Nikolas Cruz entered Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland and opened fire, leaving 17 students and staff members dead and another 17 severely injured.
On Oct. 27, 2018, armed with an AR-15 semi-automatic rifle and three handguns,
46-year-old Robert Bowers, entered the Tree of Life Congregation Synagogue in the affluent Squirrel Hill neighborhood of Pittsburgh and opened fire, killing 11 people and injuring six others.
In the days that followed each of these shootings, hundreds of elected officials sent their thoughts and prayers to the families of the victims.
While there is no masking the fact that these murders are isolated incidents, they have become a forever burden on the manufacturing of a rifle that nearly all of its owners use responsibly and lawfully for marksmanship training and competition, or at shooting clubs.
And yet, these isolated incidents are increasing in number in the U.S. and together, they have formed a continual and now unbroken chain of violence that gives our talking head society license to point anywhere and everywhere for blame: a growing lack of civility; paper-thin gun legislation and an even weaker system of background checks; the selling of fear as a commodity; the meddling influence of the National Rifle Association on our elected officials; the need for increased funding for men-
tal health services; and the endless rancor between progun and anti-gun advocates. While there are no easy solutions to this raging debate, there is no side-stepping the fact that the one constant in all of these mass shootings has been the presence of the AR-15 –America’s Rifle. Something in this deadly equation that has caused these senseless murders must change, before that fateful day arrives when the members of the editorial department of this newspaper arrive at a crime scene in Chester County that becomes the next Aurora, the next Sandy Hook, the next Parkland, the next San Bernardino, the next Orlando, the next Las Vegas, the next Sutherland Springs, and the next Pittsburgh. In light of these senseless deaths, can even the most hardened of gun owners, tethered to the fractious and interpretive wording of the Second Amendment –or elected officials fearful of being voted out of office – not be able to ascertain whether the continued protection of a semi-automatic rifle is worth more than a human life?
Let’s support the re-election of Rep. John Lawrence
Letter to the Editor:
This letter is written to vigorously endorse and support the re-election of John Lawrence, State Representative of the 13th District. John Lawrence serves Penn Township and its residents and businesses justly, with integrity, honesty and professionalism, while at the same time providing countless hours of service to our community with wisdom and fairness. Upon the retirement of longtime State Rep. Art Hershey, John Lawrence was elected and stepped into his
shoes capably and with honor as he continues Art’s legacy of service to the community during his eight years of service as our State Representative. Lawrence is a lifelong resident of southern Chester County. As such, he knows very well the people he serves, the communities he serves, and the needs of those communities. During his tenure, John Lawrence has earned a distinguished record of service to which I can personally attest, first, in my role as Township Supervisor for 22 years, but second in my roles as local businessman and life-
long community resident.
To list just a few of his accomplishments that I have personally experienced in my role at Township Supervisor, Lawrence has been a steadfast supporter and invaluable resource in facilitating both funding for and the permit for our long-awaited Route 796/Baltimore Pike intersection project which is at this moment out to bid and ready for construction. He assisted us in obtaining over $1 million in funding to purchase what will be the Penn Township Sports Park. He has organized and held many
meetings with public utilities and others to fight for our taxpayers in limiting outrageous utility rate increases. He was a major force in helping our beloved historic Sunset Park to be commemorated with an historical marker. His concern for public safety, health and welfare is boundless.
Lawrence has proven his ability to work across the aisle in his important committee assignments in the House including Finance, Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Health, Transportation, and Rules that has allowed him to accomplish some serious leg-
islation during his tenure. He has authored bills to eliminate wasteful spending by all levels of government and most recently, being signed by Gov. Wolf, he authored HB 983 which will change the law to ensure a victim of domestic violence does not have to pay his/her convicted abuser. Further, I am proud to say that never in my years of service have I seen such a wonderful and successful working relationship between two legislators of opposing parties as I have seen and experienced with John Lawrence and State Sen. Andy Dinniman (D-19).
This experience and working relationship among our two legislators are something we as residents and voters must fight to maintain. For the continued protection, safety, and welfare of our community, choose experience, wisdom and boundless service to all, stay the course, continue the upward trajectory of our community, vote John Lawrence, State Representative of the 13th District, on Nov. 6.
Curtis A. Mason, Chairman Penn Township Board of Supervisors
Attacks against Rep. Lawrence are unfounded
Letter to the Editor:
I’ve never written a letter to the editor about a political race before, but the attacks against our State Representative, John Lawrence, are so ridiculous that I felt compelled to write.
John’s opponent is attack-
Letter to the Editor:
Gerrymandering, an inside baseball topic to many, came out of the shadows this year due to several reasons. One, is the more than one-year fight waged by Fair Districts PA a grassroots organization which attempted, and largely succeeded, in educating voters about the issue of redistricting. Secondly, the
ing him for voting “no” on borrowing billions of dollars and issuing billions of dollars in new state bonds.
Well, I’m glad John is voting against issuing billions of dollars of debt that our kids and grandkids will have to repay. Everyone knows that the government is borrowing too much money. John is one of the only ones standing up for fiscal sanity in government.
John is a voice for government reform, even refusing
John Lawrence has cut government spending on things we don’t need, and has prioritized precious tax dollars on the things that are most important, like education. This year’s state budget provides more money for Oxford and Avon Grove school districts than ever before. John also supported more funding for special education, and a new school funding formula that benefits our local school districts.
Walker wants to end gerrymandering
Pennsylvania Supreme Court took the unprecedented step of redrawing the Pennsylvania Congressional Map in an attempt to end the practice of politicians picking voters instead of voters getting a voice in choosing their representatives. But while the Fair Districts campaign can claim some victories they also have to concede defeat in the wider
war. The hope of this bipartisan movement was to create a Citizens Commission which would draw the state and Congressional legislative maps. That hope came in the form of State House Bill 722 and Senate Bill 22 both of which had widespread and bipartisan support in the General Assembly.
In late July of this year, the reform movement to stop using the bizarrely drawn districts came to an end. House Speaker. Mike Turzai, who has opposed this legislation from the beginning, blocked the legislation from getting a
Letter to the Editor:
vote. The same old thing happened just a few weeks ago. A two-year attempt to shrink the size of the state legislature was torpedoed by a “poison pill” maneuver that sent the measure down to defeat.
I wish I could say I am surprised, but sadly this is why our state legislature is held in such low esteem. Harrisburg is where ideas go to die. It is a status quo legislative body that is paid a full-time wage but does little or nothing. Long term problems continue to fester and entrenched special interest groups make sure to block solutions that run
to take a state pension. Who else has ever done that? And John is working on important, bipartisan efforts that make a difference. Right now, there are two bills awaiting the Governor’s signature that John wrote – one that protects victims of domestic violence, and one that reforms how the state issues debt that will save taxpayers millions of dollars in interest payments. Sue Walker’s campaign of negativity is over-the-top and desperate. John Lawrence has my vote on Nov. 6.
counter to their narrow needs.
Whether it’s enacting an extraction tax on the fracking industry or allowing for early voting, any movement in the direction of the 21st century gets blocked, side tracked or bottled up in committee. And the state capital will remain this way until the voters have had enough. In one week the voters of Pennsylvania can tell the leadership in the General Assembly that they will no longer tolerate the stranglehold that the leadership maintains. And the leaders will only get the message when their party
Ernest L Boyes Jr Lincoln University, Pa.
experiences defeat.
Sue Walker, who is running in the 13th District against John Lawrence wants to be part of the message. Her motto of “people before politics” exemplifies what is so desperately needed in Harrisburg. John Lawrence, our current representative, has had eight years to prove he deserves another two years and he has failed. On November 6, tell Harrisburg that you want a responsive government that cares about its citizens. Vote for Sue Walker.
Eric Schott
Vote for Walker on Election Day
I’m writing to encourage voters in our area to vote for Sue Walker. Sue Walker is a great candidate for our PA House District 13. She is a well-qualified local woman with incredible drive and a desire to truly represent all
the people in our district. We have had for far too long someone who represents only a narrow slice of this population, and women in particular do not have a friend in the PA House to represent us: a woman who cares about women, men, and children, and val-
ues their unique needs and identities. We should not be governed by anyone’s restrictive religious views, but rather by the broader view towards creating the most good for the most people. Check out Sue’s page, http://suewalkerpa13. com, to learn more about this terrific candidate. We need to have better representation at the national level, and especially right here at home. You can do no better than to give Sue Walker your vote.
Nancy Dean Chatham
Harriton tops Unionville in the first round of the District 1 playoffs
By Steven Hoffman Staff Writer
Harriton scored two goals in the second half to defeat Unionville, 2-1, in the opening round of the District 1 playoffs on Oct. 23.
The Indians, who finished atop the American Division standings in the Ches-Mont League with an 11-1 record during the regular season, played a very strong game, especially in the first half when they tallied more shots on goal and corner kicks than the visiting Harriton Rams.
Harriton entered the District 1 playoffs as the 24th seed, but they were a very tough draw for the ninth-seeded Unionville Indians. Harriton made it to the District playoffs last year, and lost just one senior from that squad, so they have plenty of experience in big games.
For long stretches of the first half, Unionville controlled the flow of the game. The efforts of players like Makayla Bucci, Lyndsey Barrett, Julia Capperella, Mackenzie Malloy, and Jackie Hug helped keep Unionville’s offense on the attack by winning the battle for the possession of the ball time after time. Strong play by Unionville in the middle of the field limited Harriton’s
ability to move the ball up the field so that they could get their own scoring opportunities.
With about 16:45 left in the first half, Unionville’s Claire Matson booted a nice shot on goal, but Harriton goalkeeper Lexy Calhoun made the stop.
The Rams managed one clean shot on goal with 7:20 to play in the first half, but Unionville goalkeeper Zoe Gill-Gorenc made a great save.
In the final minute of the first half, Unionville’s offense made one more charge, but they couldn’t come up with the goal and the game remained scoreless after 40 minutes of play.
When one team is able to maintain consistent offensive pressure, it often pays off. Unionville finally broke through early in the second half when, with 34:10 left to play in the game, standout sophomore Sara Darlington took advantage of Harriton’s inability to clear the ball in front of the goal and kicked the ball into the goal.
The lead wouldn’t stand up for long. At the 31:49 mark, Harriton answered back when Gabriela Mazzoni, on a free kick, booted the ball just over the head, and beyond the reach, of Unionville goalkeeper Zoe
Gill-Gorenc.
The swing in momentum was instantaneous, as Harriton started to control the flow of play. With 23:45 left in the game, Harriton’s Ashley Wald delivered what would turn out to be the differencemaker as she worked her way behind Unionville’s defense and put the ball in the goal with a header.
Now holding a 2-1 lead, the momentum tilted in Harriton’s favor.
Unionville managed a few more scoring opportunities—with 18:28 to play, Hayden Wilson took a shot on goal that was scooped up by Calhoun, and with 13:45 to play Darlington raced past the Harriton defense to get a scoring chance in front of the goal, but Calhoun once again turned away the threat. Calhoun’s strong game played a part in Harriton’s win. She made nine saves during the game, including one that she made while laying flat on the ground.
In the closing minutes of the contest, Harriton was able to maintain possession of the ball and keep Unionville from creating a good scoring opportunity. The Rams held on for the 2-1 win.
To contact Staff Writer Steven Hoffman, email editor@chestercounty. com.
Capriotti’s to offer free Bobbies in Kennett Square
Capriotti’s Sandwich Shop, a franchise that opened in 1976 in the Little Italy section of Wilmington, Del., will be offering free small Bobbies to the first 100 customers who visit the Kennett Square location on Nov. 5. Throughout its growth,
Capriotti’s has upheld the founder’s tradition of slow-roasting Butterball turkeys in-house and handshredding them each morning. Capriotti’s sandwiches include The Bobbie, made with turkey, cranberry sauce, stuffing and mayonnaise on a freshly baked roll; the Capastrami, made with hot pastrami, Swiss cheese, Russian dressing and cole slaw; and the signature meatball sub, featuring meatballs hand made from scratch from the founder’s original recipe.
Historical marker to honor Quaker abolitionists
A roadside historical marker will be unveiled on Nov. 10 to commemorate two Quaker abolitionists who helped transport fugitive slaves to freedom before the Civil War.
The marker, honoring Isaac and Dina Mendenhall, will be dedicated on Nov. 10 at 1 p.m. at 301 Kennett Pike, at the intersection of Route 52 and Hillendale Road in Chadds Ford.
The marker was obtained thanks to the efforts of Robyn Young of Media and Carol Luzak of Claymont, Del. Luzak is a direct desendant of Isaac Mendenhall.
Maryland nurse practitioner gets paid internship
The Cecil Countybased Dermatology Care and Wellness Center has announced that Angela Coleman was awarded a paid internship at University of Pennsylvania Dermatology Department, Penn Derm, through the National Psoriasis Foundation. During her time there, Coleman observed
their department for the treatment of Cutaneous T-Cell Lymphoma, which can be misdiagnosed for years, since it mimics psoriasis. She spent time shadowing another nurse practitioner, Veronica Richardson, who specialized in many dermatology conditions, including psoriasis and hair loss.
At the Dermatology
Care and Wellness Center, patients can find care for the whole family. Prevention, early detection and treatment, reduction of skin cancer, clearance of psoriasis and eczema, and correction of hair loss are some of the services offered. Visit www. DermatologyCare. Center for more information.
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Kennett High School students honored by National Merit Scholarship Program
Kennett High School
has announced that senior Colin Petersen has been recognized as a National Merit Semifinalist in the 64th annual National Merit Scholarship Program. Petersen is among approximately 1.6 million juniors who entered the 2019 National Merit Program by taking the 2017 Preliminary SAT/ National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test, which served as an initial screening of program
entrants.
“We are tremendously proud of Colin for his accomplishments,” said Kennett High School principal Dr. Jeremy Hritz.
“He is an outstanding student who represents everything that is great about Kennett High School.”
The nationwide pool of semifinalists represents less than 1 percent of highschool seniors and includes the highest-scoring entrants in each state. The number
of semifinalists in each state is proportional to the state’s percentage of the national total of graduating seniors.
Kennett High School is also proud to announce that seniors Amanda Bell, Johnathan Bell, Emma Giancola, Molly Hohner, Rachel Hyzny, Peter Magasiny, Caleb Pebly, and Davis Peircy have been named Commended Students in the 2019 National Merit Scholarship Program.
Meeting to update community about plans for new Avon Grove High School slated for Nov. 8
The second of two community checkpoint meetings to update community members about the plans for the new Avon Grove High School will take place at 6 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 8 at the Avon Grove High School.
Facilitated by KCBA Architects, these meetings are an opportunity to obtain first-hand information about the current status of the construction project and learn about the proposed design plans.
The Community Checkpoint Meetings
are the first in a series of stakeholder meetings that will occur during the different stages of the construction project. Currently, planning is in full swing for the development of the site and the design of the new Avon Grove High School building.
At the Nov. 8 meeting, local residents will be able to learn about site plan developments, such as ample parking areas and two-way traffic flow for better traffic circulation, view the design plans, which include a 21st Century, collaborative learning environment with space for STEM learning, extracurricular programs and athletics, and stay up-to-date with Avon Grove School District’s innovative facilities plan. The Avon Grove School District and Board of School Directors are committed to keeping the community informed and involved in facilities planning. For more information and meeting schedules, please visit www. avongrove .org/ facilities.
Courtesy photo
Architectural rendering of the new Avon Grove High School, courtesy of KCBA Architects.
Friends Home in Kennett 120th Anniversary Celebration
Thank you, Kennett Square, for supporting our 120th Anniversary Celebration, October 15-20! And thanks to our sponsors:
Ruby sponsors
White Horse Group Foundation
Opal sponsors
Fenstermacher & Company, PC
Pinnacle Floor Coverings and Home Solutions, Inc.
Regester Associates, Inc.
Giant Food Stores, LLC
White Fish Accounting Services
Melton Architects
The Tri-M Group
Friends of Friends sponsors
Building Systems & Services, Inc.
Scheid Produce, Inc.
Diamond Chemical NEPPS
MacIntyre Associates
DG Design
Matrixcare, Inc.
Premier Urgent Care
Franklin Mint Federal Credit Union
Just in Time Communications
Friends of Friends sponsors
Century 21 Pierce & Bair
Low-Rise Elevator Co., Inc.
Kennett Square Inn
Rehab1, LLC
Kuzo and Grieco Funeral Home
Kennett Area YMCA
Citadel Post & Schell, P.C.
Friendly Supporter sponsor
Harrisburg Dairies
Board Clerk Debbie Brumbaugh and Executive Director Christine McDonald are joined by: Joe Scalise, James Fritsch, Richard Basilio, Doug Doer er, Dan Maffei, and Dennis Melton, at the Ground Breaking for the Corridor Connection and Garden on October 16th at Friends Home in Kennett. The new addition will enable residents and families to pass freely between the main building and Linden Hall skilled nursing, as well as provide a beautiful area for relaxation. Through the years the guiding philosophy has been to keep rates down in keeping with the original intent. Often that means upgrading old buildings rather than building new ones, but that often seems to be a good t for the historic nature of Kennett Square and surrounding Chester County.
Parkesburg inventor patents energy production method
By John Chambless Staff Writer
For the past 19 years, Paul Bellezza of Parkesburg has refused to give up. Sitting on his basement workbench right now is what could be the future of energy production, and he has secured his first patent for what is possibly a revolutionary development.
He’s gotten used to putting his invention in terms that ordinary people can grasp, but it’s clear that his expertise is running light years ahead of his simplified explanation. The parts that make our thermoelectric devices such as refrigerators and wine coolers and heaters run, he said, take electricity and can produce either heat or cold. The joints between the metal plates in those modules expand and contract with use, and the solder that holds the plates together can’t hold up. The units fail.
The thermoelectric process has been limited by the weak materials and electrical resistance, he said. But his patented process coats the metal plates in these units with
graphene, fusing them together without solder and eliminating the possibility of the materials failing. There is also little or no electrical resistance.
“Graphene is resilient. Basically, it self-repairs,” Bellezza said. “So if there are thermal stresses, any breaks repair themselves. It’s almost like a web.”
His decades-long fascination with the thermoelectric process netted results as far back as 15 years ago. He built a working model that produced a large amount of electricity by converting heat into power.
“Thermoelectric never came into the mainstream as a viable energy generation technology,
because of breaking down,” he said. His longrange idea is to ultimately use a heat source – gas, oil, propane -- pass it through his thermoelectric module and get electricity.
How much electricity? Bellezza is reluctant to say, but indicated that units using his approved patent – and his two others that are pending at the U.S. Patent Office – could power a house. Or even more.
“My patent solves the problem of putting thermoelectric in the mainstream as a technology for power generation,” he said. “And it’s long-lasting as well.”
Sculthorpe captures nature in all its serene beauty
By John Chambless Staff Writer
It’s always rewarding to catch up on what Peter Sculthorpe has been painting lately, and his solo show at the Somerville Manning Gallery in Greenville, Del. – while it contains only 13 works – scores several “wow” moments.
His huge diptych, “Shallow Waters,” is a watercolor tour de force. The viewer is looking down at a crystal-clear stream, with endless colors of rocks, one upon another, jumbled across the two panels. But it’s the autumn leaves, casting shadows on the rocks below them, that suggest the depth of the unseen water. It’s dazzling.
But there’s a similar sleight of hand at work throughout the show. There’s the sweep of barely rippled water in “Mount St. Regis Sunset,” reflecting the fading light of the sky. The large format of the piece – 60 inches wide – fills your field of vision and inserts you into the scene. It’s the same way you’re drawn into the dramatic arc of shoreline and the barest suggestion of mist in “Proposal Rock to Cascade Head.”
But scale isn’t the only way Sculthorpe impresses you. The 9-by-12 sunset view, “Ice in the Furrows,” has a thin blade of fading light through a cloud
bank that is a perfect evocation of an elusive twilight moment we’ve all seen, but has now been captured with nearly threedimensional clarity.
There’s another spot of magic in “Intrepid Pines,” an 8-by-8 oil of trees standing tall against a shoreline wind. There’s something absolutely right about the way the pine branches overlap, with lush but brittle textures.
“A Home By the Sea,” a 2018 oil of an unlikely home built on thin earth over a rocky point, is the kind of place that only Sculthorpe could find. It’s a sentinel of civilization in a place otherwise devoid of human presence, under a glowing blue sky.
Even Sculthorpe’s so-called study – “Winter in Frog Hollow” – is a fully realized depiction of barely moving water in winter.
If there’s a “traditional” Sculthorpe here, it’s “Storm Break at Midnight,” a farm in the snow under a full moon. The wire fence in the foreground, with wind-whipped reeds clinging to it, suggests a mighty winter gale has plastered them in place.
And in “Summer’s Rest,” there’s one of Sculthorpe’s jigsaw-puzzle stone barn walls – an endless array of slate grays and sandstone tans that benefits from its large scale. Works by Peter Sculthorpe are on view at Somerville Manning Gallery (101 Stone Block Row, Greenville, Del.) through Nov. 10. Visit www. somervillemanning.com for more information.
To contact Staff Writer John Chambless, email jchambless@ chestercounty.com
Photo by John Chambless
Paul Bellezza in his basement workshop.
This shed was Bellezza’s workshop and research base for years.
‘A Home By the Sea’
‘Ice In The Furrows’
‘Mount Saint Regis Sunset’
‘Proposal Rock to Cascade Head’
‘Shallow Waters’
‘Storm Break at Midnight’ Continued
Nov. 1
Anti-trafficking meeting
The Domestic Violence Center of Chester County will be the guest speaker at ACE (Advocating, Collaborating, Educating)
Anti-Human Trafficking Alliance of Oxford on Nov. 1. The community is invited to learn the signs of domestic violence, how to help your neighbor or loved one, and the services provided to the community in Oxford. The one-hour presentation is scheduled at 6:30 p.m. at the Oxford Library (48 S. Second St., Oxford). The newly published book of poetry, “Who Speaks for Them?” by Marie-Louise Meyers, will be for sale. For more information, call 610-932-0337.
Nov. 3
Murder mystery in Kennett Square
The Kennett Amateur Theatrical Society (KATS) will present an audienceparticipation murder mystery in downtown Kennett Square on Nov. 3 beginning at 6 p.m. Actors will be stationed in businesses throughout the downtown, offering clues to participants about “whodunit.” The production is based at the Market at Liberty Place.
Nov. 16-17
Unionville Art Gala
Unionville High School (750 Unionville Rd., Kennett Square) holds the 43rd annual Art Gala on Nov. 16 from 6 to 9 p.m., and Nov. 17 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. The Friday reception features live music and hors d’oeuvres. About 65 regional artists will be exhibiting fine
art, including paintings, sculpture, photography, jewelry and more. There will be a silent auction of art and other items, as well as a display of student artwork. Thirty percent of any purchases are taxdeductible. Admission is free. Visit www.ucfsd.org for more information.
Nov. 17 to Jan. 6
Yuletide at Winterthur
Yuletide at Winterthur returns on Nov. 17 and runs until Jan. 6, with a yuletide tour of the du Pont mansion decked out for the holidays. Each delightful room tells a story reflecting the ways in which Americans have celebrated the winter holiday season from the 1800s to the present. Other highlights include: a magical Christmas tree inspired by Winterthur’s Enchanted Woods children’s garden; more stunning trees celebrating the season throughout the mansion; an 18-room dollhouse mansion filled with nearly 1,000 miniatures and fully decorated for Christmas; and a display of antique Santas and figures of the mischievous Belsnickel. Winterthur’s two stores offer a selection of gifts. Programs throughout the season include the weekly Yuletide Jazz and Wine series, which features favorite holiday music ensembles on Wednesday evenings; live one-man performances of “ A Christmas Carol” featuring Gerald Charles Dickens, the great-great-grandson of Charles Dickens; and the popular Yuletide Brunch with Santa. Timed tickets for the tour are available at www.winterthur.org,
or by calling 800-4483883. Tickets are $22 for non-members, $20 for seniors and students, $6 for children, and free for infants.
Nov. 22 to Jan. 6
‘A Longwood Christmas’ Longwood Gardens (Route 1, Kennett Square) hosts “A Longwood Christmas” from Nov. 22 to Jan. 6.
There will be decorated trees and greens throughout the Conservatory, and millions of lights on the trees and topiary outdoors. There will be outdoor fire pits, strolling carolers and live music all season long. Admission is by advance purchase of a timed ticket. Tickets are $23 for adults, $20 for seniors and college students with ID, $12 for ages 5 to 18, free for ages 4 and younger. Visit www.longwoodgardens. org for tickets and more information.
Nov. 23 to Jan. 6
‘A Brandywine Christmas’
The Brandywine River Museum of Art (Route 1, Chadds Ford) holds its holiday display from Nov. 23 to Jan. 6. There will be a landscaped, operating O-gauge model train display, the annual sale of “Critter” handmade ornaments from Nov. 29 to Dec. 2, caroling in the museum, decorated trees, a children’s party on Dec. 5, a “Breakfast With the Trains” for families on Dec. 8 and 15, and more. The museum is open from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. (closed Thanksgiving and Christmas day). Admission is $18 for adults, $15 for seniors, $6 for students with ID and ages
6 to 18, free for children under 5 and members. Visit www.brandywinemuseum. org for more information.
Nov. 23 to Jan. 1
Holidays at Hagley Hagley Museum in Wilmington will celebrate the holidays with exhibitions, a gingerbread house display, a seasonal setting for taking photos in Santa’s Workshop, a day to meet and take photos with Santa, and evening tours of the du Pont family residence. The event is free for members and $6 to $14 for non-members. The festival begins with Thanksgiving weekend family programming from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Rooms throughout the residence through Jan. 1 will display decorations reminiscent of Christmases past of the du Pont family. New this year is “The Magic of Miniatures,” with a dollhouse owned by Mrs. E. Paul du Pont, who lived next to Hagley. On Dec. 8, Santa will be available for photos at 10 a.m., 1, and 3 p.m. Visit www.hagley.org for more information.
Nov. 27
Benefit for animal shelter
On Nov. 27, Sovana Bistro (696 Unionville Rd., Kennett Square) will donate
15 percent of each meal check to the Greenmore Farm Animal Rescue.
Greenmore is a non-profit in West Grove. The animals, mostly dogs, are rescued from high-kill shelters in several locations throughout the U.S. Reservations can be made by calling Sovana Bistro at 610-444-5600.
The charity night will be held from 5 to 10 p.m.
Kennett Flash schedule
The Kennett Flash (102 Sycamore Alley, Kennett Square) hosts regional and national artists. Tickets are available in advance at www.kennettflash.org, or at the door. Snacks and beverages are sold, or guests can BYOB. The schedule includes: Andrew Lipke and the Azrael String Quartet (Nov. 2, 8 p.m., $15 and $18); comedian Chris Haas with Marc Huppman, Mallory Leonard, Steph Termini and Melissa Kirkpatrick (Nov. 3, 8 p.m., $15); open mic with Sam Kwietniak (Nov. 4, 7 p.m., $4); Brian Filone’s Bowie Experience – David Bowie tribute (Nov. 9, 8 p.m., $18 to $22); Ha Ha Tonka with Apache Trails (Nov. 10, 8 p.m., $15 and $18); We Kids Rock guitar lesson showcase (Nov. 14, 6:30 p.m., $5); Adrian Legg
(Nov. 15, 8 p.m., $23 and $28); Radio Free Honduras (Nov. 16, 8 p.m., $20 and $24); The Big Jangle –Tom Petty tribute (Nov. 17, 8 p.m., $18 and $22); open mic with host Kalai King (Nov. 18, 7 p.m., $4); comedy with Jimmy Carroll, Todd Chappelle and Joe Bublewicz (Nov. 23, 8 p.m., $25 and $30); Rumourz – Fleetwood Mac tribute (Nov. 25, 7 p.m., $18 and $22); David Bromberg (Nov. 30, sold out); open mic with host Sarah Koon (Dec. 2, 7 p.m., $4); Dan Navarro, Bruce Sudano and Chas Sandford (Dec. 7, 8 p.m., $22 and $26); Jackie “The Joke Man” Martling (Dec. 8, 8 p.m., $35). Reactors Comedy Club Reactors Comedy Club, in the Quality Inn and Suites (943 S. High St., West Chester). Hosts live comedy presented by Reactors on weekends. Doors open at 7:30 p.m., and showtime is 8:30 p.m. Admission is $20 at the door. Visit www. reactorscomedyclub.com. To submit items to the Calendar of Events, e-mail jchambless@chestercounty. com. There is no charge. Not every submission can be included. Items should be submitted at least two weeks before the event.
Unionville High School hosts one of the largest area exhibitions of the year, the Art Gala, on Nov. 16 and 17 (see listing).
HARRY R. LUZETSKY, JR.
Harry R. Luzetsky, Jr. (Ricky), 22, of Kennett Square, passed away on Oct. 27.
He was a laborer/apprentice bricklayer at Diamond State Masonry. Ricky enjoyed creating music, being with family and friends, and enjoying life to its fullest. He touched many individuals with his unique sense of humor, wit, compassion, respectfulness, and energy. He would occasionally argue with his sisters, challenge his parents, and have fights with his friends, but would always make amends and never remain mad, as it was not in his nature to think ill will of anyone. He will be greatly missed by all that knew him and those who will miss knowing him due to his short life.
Ricky is survived by his loving family: his parents, Harry and Michele; and his sisters, Ashlee and Maura. He was predeceased by his material grandparents, Michael and Mary Redden; and his paternal grandparents, Harry and Mary Luzetsky.
A visitation will be held from 10 a.m. to noon Nov. 2 at the Kuzo & Grieco Funeral Home (250 W. State St., Kennett Square). There will be graveside service immediately after at 12:30 p.m. at St. Patrick’s Cemetery (460 N. Union St., Kennett Square). In lieu of flowers, a contribution may be made to the Malinois Ranch Rescue, 100 Guins Creek Lane, McKenzie, TN. To view his online tribute and to share a memory with his family, visit www.griecocares.com.
DAVID M. FRAMPTON
David M. Frampton, 80, of Oxford, entered into rest on Oct. 24 at the Ware Presbyterian Village. Born in Oxford, he was the son of the late Albert and Anna (Rentz) Frampton. He was married to the late Agnes (Corby) Frampton for 55 years. David graduated from Oxford High School and went on to serve in the Navy. He was a senior gardener at Longwood Gardens in Kennett Square for over 32 years. David enjoyed golfing, fishing, and traveling. He is survived by his children: Elizabeth, wife of Tim Pearl of Cochranville; Christopher Frampton of Quarryville; Joyce F., wife of Bill Walters of Alabama; Ginger, wife of Michael Madonna of Wilmington, Del.; and Dan Frampton of New Mexico. Also surviving are five grandchildren and one great-grandchild; and three sisters, Helen Worral, Dorothy Greer, and Florence Wooten. He was preceded in death by a son, David J. Frampton Services will be private. Memorial contributions may be made to the CurePSP, 1206 York Road, Suite L-4 Lutherville, MD 21093.
Nov. 2 to Dec. 13
Ten Thousand Villages Shop
Oxford Presbyterian Church (6 Pine St., Oxford) will host a gift shop featuring crafts from around the world by Ten Thousand Villages, beginning Nov. 2 from 5 to 8 p.m., and continuing on Saturdays and Sundays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. through Dec. 16. Local author Iris Gray Dowling will be at the shop on Nov. 2 and Dec. 7 from 5 to 8 p.m. Call 610-932-9640 for more information.
Nov. 3
Food Tasting in Oxford
The Oxford High School cafeteria (705 Waterway Rd., Oxford) will be the site of a food tasting event on Nov. 3 from 2:30 to 5 p.m. The event is sponsored by Shiloh Presbyterian Church. There will be food tastings, crafts, vendors, door prizes and live music. Doors open at 1:30 p.m. Call 610-932-9256 for ticket information. This is a rescheduled date. Call for refunds or more
Obituary submissions
The Chester County Press publishes obituaries, free of charge, for those with a connection to southern Chester County. Obituaries appear on the Wednesday after they are received, space permitting. They also are posted on www.chestercounty.com. Photos should be sent as .jpg attachments to the obituary text. To submit an obituary to the Chester County Press, email the information to: jchambless@chestercounty. com.
NANCY ELAINE LYNCH
Nancy Elaine Lynch, 79, of Nottingham, passed away on Oct. 21 at home.
Born in Berrysburg, she was the daughter of the late Harry and Hattie Lanker Schlegel. Nancy enjoyed crocheting, arts and crafts, yardwork, and especially spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
She is survived by her three sons, Steven S. Lynch (Sherry) of Cameron, N.C., Gary E. Lynch (Beth) of Pottstown, and Curt Schmeck (Kim) of Charleston, W. Va.; two daughters, Katrina (Tina) L. Zuzek of Parkside, and Karen Ciampa of Fort Lauderdale, Fla.; eight grandchildren; and one great-grandchild.
She was preceded in death by two sisters, Phyllis Weaver and Janet Schmeck.
A memorial service was held Oct. 25. Interment was private. Online condolences may be made at www. elcollinsfuneralhome.com.
JOHN C. GEBHARD
John C. Gebhard of Crosslands in Kennett Square passed away peacefully on Oct. 24 at the age of 92. John was a family man. He was married to Joyce for 63 wonderful years and was an active father, grandfather and great-grandfather. He enjoyed traveling with friends and family, reading, and educational opportunities of all kinds. John was an honest, kind and good man; a man of integrity. He looked forward to each day with fascination. Ever the realist, but enjoyed science fiction the most. Practical, analytical at heart, he let those around him do the unnecessary worrying. He was happy and lived life in a humble, uncomplicated manner, living at peace with himself and with others. He loved his wife and best friend, Joyce, very much.
He was born in Seattle, Wash., to Capt. John C. Gebhard and Jean (Hall) Gebhard. He served in the Army as a medic in World War II. John received a degree from Lehigh University and a master’s in chemical engineering from Cornell.
He began his career as a scientist and inventor at DuPont in 1951, where he worked until 1988. There he met his future wife, Joyce, who was working as an analytical chemist. He was civic minded throughout life, and served on the Unionville School Board, Pocopson Township Supervisory Board, in Rotary and on various committees in the Crosslands community.
John is survived by his loving wife Joyce; three children Scott (Pam) Gebhard, Bob (Patty) Gebhard, and Cindy Gebhard (Tim Scheid); seven grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.
RICHARD E. LYSTER, SR.
Richard E. Lyster, Sr., 70, of Penns Grove, N.J., passed away on Oct. 24 at Wilmington VA Medical Center. He was the husband of the late Evelyn Shradley Lyster. Born in West Chester, he was the son of the late Wilbert and Agnes Miller Lyster. Richard was a veteran of the U.S. Army and served in the Vietnam War. Richard enjoyed fishing, watching movies, and eating Lays chips. He is survived by one son, Richard E. Lyster, Jr., of Port Deposit, Md.; nine grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; one brother, Thomas Lyster of Penns Grove, N.J.; and one sister, Bonnie Lyster of Rising Sun, Md. He was preceded in death by three brothers, William “Butch” Lyster, Bruce Lyster and David Lyster; and three sisters, Alice Lyster, Brenda Graffigna and Dorothy Reyes.
A funeral will be held at 2:30 p.m. Nov. 3 at the Edward L. Collins, Jr. Funeral Home, Inc. (86 Pine St., Oxford), where friends and family may visit from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. Interment will be private. Donations in his memory may be made to the Voluntary Services Dept. of the Wilmington Veterans Administration Hospital, 1601 Kirkwood Highway, Wilmington, DE 19805. Online condolences may be made at www.elcollinsfuneralhome. com.
JOSEPH WILLIS HICKMAN
Joseph Willis Hickman (Will) died with his wife, Diane, by his side at his residence in Lewes, Del., on Oct. 25.
Will was born 79 years ago to Helen Wright and J. Willis Hickman, Sr., in West Grove. He worked in Giant as a produce assistant.
Will is survived by a large and loving family, including his wife Diane; his children, Debra Benham (Chris), Kimberly Taylor, Lauren Patrick (David), also Michele Connell (John), Jeff Champlin (Amy) and Eric Champlin (Amy). He is also survived by many grandchildren and great-grandchildren; and two sisters, Margaret and Anne Hickman.
Relatives and friends are invited to a graveside service on Nov. 9 at 11 a.m. at Birmingham Lafayette Cemetery (1235 Birmingham Rd., West Chester). Visit www.griecocares.com.
information.
Nov. 6
‘Surviving the Holidays’ West Grove United Methodist Church (300 N. Guernsey Rd., West Grove) will offer a oneevening class from GriefShare, “Surviving the Holidays,” on Nov. 6 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. The class is for those who may be experiencing a holiday season after a loved one’s death. There will be a video, discussion and each participant will get a “Survival Guide” with daily encouragement and exercises for the holiday season. Call the church office to reserve a space at 610-869-9334.
A memorial gathering is being held by the family at Crosslands on Nov. 11 at 2 p.m. In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Parkinson’s Disease Foundation, 1359 Broadway, Suite 1509, New York, NY 10018, or to a charity of your choice. To view his online tribute and to share a memory with his family, visit www.griecocares.com.
DENNIS ARNOLD TICE
Dennis Arnold Tice, 59, of Oxford, passed away on Oct. 25 at Jennersville Hospital Tower Health, West Grove. Born in West Grove, he was the son of the late Irvin Donald and Betty Byrd Tice. Dennis loved his family. He was Poppo, Pop-Pop, Uncle D., they were “DAT and PAT.” Dennis, who loved much, will be missed.
He is survived by his life companion of over 35 years, Patty Osborne; her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, whom he loved as his own; one sister; three nephews; and numerous other family and friends.
A funeral will be held at 11 a.m. Nov. 1 at the Edward L. Collins, Jr. Funeral Home, Inc. (86 Pine St., Oxford), where friends and family may visit from 10 to 11 a.m. Interment is private. Online condolences may be made at www.elcollinsfuneralhome.com.
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What they’re saying:
A young journalist talks to her peers and teachers about politics
By Meredith Haas Contributing Writer
Voting is an American
It’s a right that will be practiced in the upcoming
and there is every indication that young voters will be a key voice and factor in who gets to decide the future of the American political system beginning in 2019 and beyond.
According to the American Census, young voter turnout went up 1.1 percent in the 2016 elections compared to 2012, and as the young generation prepares to take its mantle as the Future of America, that slight jump shows a clear indication that among those in the 18-29 age bracket, the initiative to stay involved in the political arena may be on the rise.
Many are seeking the facts, searching for the vote that will influence their world in the best ways possible, while showing a true interest in the political world today and how it works. Seeing this slight shift in favor of being involved in politics, I decided to sit down with students and teachers to uncover what they think about the upcoming midterms and our political world
as a whole. I wanted to know whether they feel that their generation will shake the political world and make a difference.
For Anthony Ferroni, a student at Delaware County Community College, the upcoming elections – and the entire political environment – is personal. As the son of parents who own New Garden Fresh, Ferroni witnesses issues firsthand – chiefly, the issue of immigration and deportation.
“With our new administration, I don’t see much of a push to assist undocumented workers,” Ferroni said. “There is a fear among immigrant workers that if you mess up, you get sent back home. That is how it is if you go to any mushroom company today.”
Ferroni witnesses at
his family business that labor loss is a great issue due to the heightened immigration issue.
The Washington Times reported that the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement said the removal of illegal immigrants has risen 9 percent from 2017 within the first nine months of 2018.
“If it is happening somewhere as small as my area, I can’t imagine what is happening miles and miles from here,” Ferroni said. “I will say that it is a big issue. The people who come here not only bring economic opportunity for themselves and the communities they work in, but they also bring culture. You always need more diversity.”
Some young voters admit that all of this conflict pushes them away from wanting to
know more.
“I used to watch the news a lot, but now there is too much drama and a lot of the past being brought up,” said Annalyn Procopio, an 18-year-old freshman at Delaware County Community College.
“I feel like the United States is focusing on the little issues, when there are bigger issues out there, like immigration, stopping potential threats of violence, and the environment to contend with.
“I think if we sit down, not fight and discuss on a common ground, we would get things done. If we focus on just the facts, we would be better off when going to vote.”
Avon Grove High School history teacher Mitch Masucci said when he speaks to young people about political issues, he encourages them to recognize that facts and figures go through the spin machine of liberal and conservative thought.
“One part of teaching government, or any social studies, is teaching to recognize bias and to know that everything out there has some type of bias to it,” Masucci said. “It’s about knowing how you determine what the bias is and how you can you extract the real information with it.”
Grace CarrHarkins, an 18-yearold freshman at Millersville University, agrees. When asked
if she was voting, she replied with an exuberant “Yes! You should definitely vote. Get your opinion out there, think about what is best, but also put yourself in the position of others and truly think.”
Carr-Harkins said she believes that when she goes to vote, she will try to make the most informed decision while looking at every factual side of the story when obtaining information from the internet.
“Social media is huge, but it can be dangerous,” CarrHarkins said. “Many people can say things without thinking.”
With the pronounced use of social media, Carr-Harkins sees how it can be so defining for people her age. She believes it is the largest influence on her generation, and will be for long into the future. Not only does she see the influence on her peers, but on herself as well, as she obtains most of her information similarly.
“I am sure I have been influenced,” she said. “I will read things and it will make me think a certain way. The point I am trying to make is that these ideas don’t make you biased.
“If you are using Twitter and you cannot cite it in your English paper, then you probably should not be using those facts,” she said. “Taking that extra step and finding out the facts will help us all in the long run.”
Massuci said the smallest voice can be heard, as long as it is an informed opinion.
“We saw in this past year with the school shootings, students who were nowhere near being able to vote were going out and expressing their thoughts, either in one direction or the other,” he said. “I have
students in my classes who cannot vote but still actively go out and campaign with their parents. I think once you have the right to vote, you can exercise it however you want to. It could be for any reason. But I think you should be voting for informed purposes.”
Christopher Steinbrecher, a sociology professor at Delaware County Community College, said that the younger generation can become involved in changing the system by accomplishing one simple task: Registering to vote.
“I asked my 18-yearold stepdaughter if she is registered to vote,” he said. “She told me, ‘I don’t know.’ I said, ‘Well, get online and register,’ and she reluctantly said, ‘But why?’ We need to stay focused, find the sources that we can trust, and question everything.”
Regarding the future, Steinbrecher wants to instill in young people one key piece of advice that he always shares with his students. “Question everything,” he said. “Question everything you believe in, and try to get down to the bottom of the whole story.”
“I think the younger generation is trying to make a change,” said Douglas McCann, Supervisor of the Learning Commons at Delaware County Community College. “I think they are sick of what the government is doing, so they do try to make a change. From the conversations that I hear, their opinions and the things they have asked my opinions on show they are digging.”
Meredith Haas is a 2018 graduate of Avon Grove High School. She attends Delaware County Community College at the Pennocks Bridge campus.
Anthony Ferroni Grace Carr-Harkins
Annalynn Procopio
ESTATE NOTICE
HELP WANTED
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Possible year round work.
Call 610-467-1103, Leave a message.
ESTATE NOTICE ESTATE OF Richard V. McCloskey, late of Tredyffrin Township, Chester County, Pennsylvania, Deceased. Letters Testamentary on the estate of the above named Richard V. McCloskey having been granted to the undersigned, all persons having claims or demands against the estate of the said decedent are requested to make known the same and all persons indebted to the said decedent to make payment without delay to: Michael Townsend, Executor, c/o David Elwell, Esq., Stonehage Fleming Law US,1650 Market Street, 26thFloor, Philadelphia, PA 19103,. 10p-17-3t NOTICE – PENN TOWNSHIP ZONING HEARING BOARD
NOTICE is hereby given that the Zoning Hearing Board of Penn Township will hold a
Notice is hereby given that Letters Testamentary have been granted to J. Dean Cheek Jr. and Ann C. Terry and Donna E. White, Co-Executor/Executrices, for the Estate of Elizabeth S. Miller, Deceased, whose last address was Oxford, Chester County, Pennsylvania. Any person having a claim to this Estate is asked to make same c/o R. Samuel McMichael, Esquire, P.O. Box 296, Oxford, PA 19363. 10p-24-3t
ESTATE NOTICE
Notice is hereby given that Letters Testamentary have been granted to Claudia L. Inmon, Executrix, for the Estate of Ernest C. Inmon, Jr., Deceased, late of Thornbury Twp., Chester County, Pennsylvania. Any person having a claim to this Estate is asked to make same c/o Marjorie J. Scharpf, Esq., Friedman, Schuman, PC, 101 Greenwood Ave., Fifth Floor, Jenkintown, PA 19046, Friedman, Schuman, PC, 101 Greenwood Ave., Fifth Floor, Jenkintown, PA 19046 10p-24-3t
NOTICE OF FICTITIOUS NAME REGISTRATION
Notice is Hereby Given pursuant to the provisions of Act of Assembly, No. 295, effective March 16, 1983, of intention to file in the office of the Department of State of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, at Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, an application for the conduct of a business in Chester County, Pennsylvania under the assumed or fictitious name, style or designation of Wordworks Press with its principal place of business at 51 Pequea Avenue, #185, Honey Brook PA 19344-9998, The names and addresses of the persons owning or interested in said business are:Betty W Naranjo, The Application has been filed on 10/17/2018. 10p-31-1t
ESTATE NOTICE
ESTATE OF Audrey E. Kauffman, also known as Audrey Bryson Kauffman, late of Lower Oxford Township, Chester County, Deceased. Letters Testamentary on the estate of the above named Audrey E. Kauffman having been granted to the undersigned, all persons having claims or demands against the estate of the said decedent are requested to make known the same and all persons indebted to the said decedent to make payment without delay to: Dwight D. Kauffman, Executor, c/o Attorney: Winifred Moran Sebastian, Esquire, 208 E. Locust Street Address, P.O. Box 381 Oxford, PA 19363 10p-31-3t
ESTATE NOTICE
in the Township’s C-1 Village Commercial District. If you are a person with a disability and wish to attend the public meeting scheduled above and require an auxiliary aide, service or other accommodation to participate in the proceedings, please contact the Township Secretary at (610) 869-9620 to discuss how Penn Township may best accommodate your needs. Edward M. Foley, Solicitor Brutscher, Foley, Milliner & Land, LLP, 213 E. State Street, Kennett Square, PA 19348 10p-24-2t
ESTATE OF Nancy D. Rogal, late of East Goshen Township, Chester County, Deceased. Letters Testamentary on the estate of the above named Nancy D. Rogal, having been granted to the undersigned, all persons having claims or demands against the estate of the said decedent are requested to make known the same and all persons indebted to the said decedent to make payment without delay to: Sylvia R. Pope, Executrix, C/O Gawthrop Greenwood, PC, 17 E. Gay Street, Suite 100, P.O. Box 562, West Chester, PA 19381-0562 10p-31-3t
ESTATE NOTICE
ESTATE OF William G. Rogal, late of East Goshen Township, Chester County, Deceased. Letters Testamentary on the estate of the above named
William G. Rogal, having been granted to the undersigned, all persons having claims or demands against the estate of the said decedent are requested to make known the same and all persons indebted to the said decedent to make payment without delay to: Sylvia R. Pope, Executrix, C/O Gawthrop Greenwood, PC, 17 E. Gay Street, Suite 100, P.O. Box 562, West Chester, PA 19381-0562
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FICTITIOUS NAME REGISTRATION
An application for registration of the fictitious name Follow Me Therapy, 222 Cloud Place, West Chester, PA 19380 has been filed in the Department of State at Harrisburg, PA, File Date 9/12/2018 pursuant to the Fictitious Names Act, Act 1982-295. The name and address of the person who is a party to the registration is Lauren Heft, 222 Cloud Place, West Chester, PA 19380.
10p-31-1t
FICTITIOUS NAME REGISTRATION
An application for registration of the fictitious name Lapis Integrative, 319 Sweetwater Path, Cochranville, PA 19330 has been filed in the Department of State at Harrisburg, PA, File Date 9/12/18 pursuant to the Fictitious Names Act, Act 1982-295. The name and address of the person who is a party to the registration is Amy Burton, 319 Sweetwater Path, Cochranville, PA 19330.
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Sheriff Sale of Real Estate
By virtue of the within mentioned writs directed to Sheriff Carolyn B. Welsh, the herein-described real estate will be sold at public sale in the Chester County Justice Center at 201 W Market Street, 3rd Floor, Room 3300, West Chester, Pennsylvania, as announced on Thursday, November 15th, 2018 at 11AM. Notice is given to all parties in interest and claimants that the Sheriff will file with the Prothonotary and in the Sheriff’s Office, both located in the Chester County Justice Center, 201 W Market Street, West Chester, Pennsylvania, Schedules of Distribution on Monday, December 17th, 2018. Distribution will be made in accordance with the Schedules unless exceptions are filed in the Sheriff’s Office within ten (10) days thereafter.
SALE NO. 18-11-606 Writ of Execution No. 2016-11693 EBT $353,961.23
PROPERTY situate in Elk Township
TAX Parcel #Tax ID / UPI Parcel No. 70-04-0018.03F/70-4-18.3F
IMPROVEMENTS: A residential dwelling.
PLAINTIFF: M&T Bank S/B/M Hudson City Savings Bank VS DEFENDANT: MICHAEL D’ANNUNZIO
SALE ADDRESS: 5 Peacedale Court, Oxford a/k/a Elk Township, PA 19363
PLAINTIFF ATTORNEY: KML LAW GROUP, P.C., 215-627-1322
N.B. Ten percent (10%) of the purchase money must be paid at the time and
place of sale. Payment must be paid in
cash, certified check, or money order
made payable to the purchaser or “Sheriff of Chester County”. The balance must be made payable to “Sheriff of Chester County” within twenty-one (21) days from the date of sale by 4PM.
CAROLYN B. WELSH, SHERIFF 10p-24-3t
Sheriff Sale of Real Estate
By virtue of the within mentioned writs directed to Sheriff Carolyn B. Welsh, the herein-described real estate will be sold at public sale in the Chester County Justice Center at 201 W Market Street, 3rd Floor, Room 3300, West Chester, Pennsylvania, as announced on Thursday, November 15th, 2018 at 11AM. Notice is given to all parties in interest and claimants that the Sheriff will file with the Prothonotary and in the Sheriff’s Office, both located in the Chester County Justice Center, 201 W Market Street, West Chester, Pennsylvania, Schedules of Distribution on Monday, December 17th, 2018. Distribution will be made in accordance with the Schedules unless exceptions are filed in the Sheriff’s Office within ten (10) days thereafter.
SALE NO. 18-11-608 Writ of Execution No. 2017-10609
DEBT $262,974.98
PROPERTY situate in the East Nottingham Township, Chester County, Pennsylvania
BLR# 69-3-77.34
IMPROVEMENTS thereon: residential dwelling
PLAINTIFF: U.S. Bank National Association VS DEFENDANT: JEFFREY DAVID
LIVEZEY and ERIN ELIZABETH
LIVEZEY
SALE ADDRESS: 257 Joseph Road, Oxford, PA 19363-4320
PLAINTIFF ATTORNEY: PHELAN HALLINAN DIAMOND & JONES, LLP, 215-563-7000
N.B. Ten percent (10%) of the purchase money must be paid at the time and place of sale. Payment must be paid in cash, certified check, or money order made payable to the purchaser or “Sheriff of Chester County”. The balance must be made payable to “Sheriff of Chester County” within twenty-one (21) days from the date of sale by 4PM. CAROLYN B. WELSH, SHERIFF 10p-24-3t Sheriff Sale of Real Estate
By virtue of the within mentioned writs directed to Sheriff Carolyn B. Welsh, the herein-described real estate will be sold at public sale in the Chester County Justice Center at 201 W Market Street, 3rd Floor, Room 3300, West Chester, Pennsylvania, as announced on Thursday, November 15th, 2018 at 11AM. Notice is given to all parties in interest and claimants that the Sheriff will file with the Prothonotary and in the Sheriff’s Office, both located in the Chester County Justice Center, 201 W Market Street, West Chester, Pennsylvania, Schedules of Distribution on Monday, December 17th, 2018. Distribution will be made in accordance
with the Schedules unless exceptions are filed in the Sheriff’s Office within ten (10) days thereafter.
SALE NO. 18-11-610 Writ of Execution No. 2018-05170 DEBT $214,550.91
PROPERTY situate in the West Nottingham Township, Chester County, Pennsylvania
BLR# 68-2-17.5
IMPROVEMENTS thereon: residential dwelling
PLAINTIFF: Bank of America, National Association, Successor by Merger to Lasalle Bank Midwest National Association, f/k/a Standard Federal Bank National Association, Successor by Merger to Standard Federal Bank VS DEFENDANT: THOMAS J. GAMBER and MADELINE C. GAMBER
SALE ADDRESS: 2266 Hopewell Road, Nottingham, PA 19362
PLAINTIFF ATTORNEY: PHELAN HALLINAN DIAMOND & JONES, LLP, 215-563-7000
N.B. Ten percent (10%) of the purchase money must be paid at the time and place of sale. Payment must be paid in cash, certified check, or money order made payable to the purchaser or “Sheriff of Chester County”. The balance must be made payable to “Sheriff of Chester County” within twenty-one (21) days from the date of sale by 4PM. CAROLYN B. WELSH, SHERIFF 10p-24-3t Sheriff Sale of Real Estate By virtue of the within mentioned writs directed to Sheriff Carolyn B. Welsh, the herein-described real estate will be sold at public sale in the Chester County Justice Center at 201 W Market Street, 3rd Floor, Room 3300, West Chester, Pennsylvania, as announced on Thursday, November 15th, 2018 at 11AM. Notice is given to all parties in interest and claimants that the Sheriff will file with the Prothonotary and in the Sheriff’s Office, both located in the Chester County Justice Center, 201 W Market Street, West Chester, Pennsylvania, Schedules of Distribution on Monday, December 17th, 2018. Distribution will be made in accordance with the Schedules unless exceptions are filed in the Sheriff’s Office within ten (10) days thereafter.
SALE NO. 18-11-626 Writ of Execution No. 2018-05674 DEBT $103,597.23
ALL THAT CERTAIN lot or piece of ground with the improvements thereon erected, hereditaments and appurtenances
SITUATE in the Borough of Atglen, County of Chester and Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, bounded and described according to a Plan of Pennington Farms, prepared by the Design Coalition, Architects Planners, Parkesburg, Pennsylvania, dated 4/24/1984, last revised 8/3/1984, recorded 1/9/1985 as Plan File No. 5381, as follows, to wit: BEGINNING at a point on the south-
OR ADMINISTRATOR TO THE ESTATE OF BENERANDO MARTINEZ, JR.’LAILA MARTINEZ, AS BELIEVED HEIR AND/OR ADMINISTRATOR TO THE ESTATE OF BENERANDO MARTINEZ, JR.; UNKNOWN HEIRS AND/ OR ADMINISTRATORS TO THE ESTATAE OF BENERANDO MARTINEZ, JR.
SALE ADDRESS: 19 Townview Drive, West Grove, PA 19390
PLAINTIFF ATTORNEY: MANLEY DEAS KOCHALSKI, LLC, 614-220-5611
N.B. Ten percent (10%) of the purchase money must be paid at the time and place of sale. Payment must be paid in cash, certified check, or money order made payable to the purchaser or “Sheriff of Chester County”. The balance must be made payable to “Sheriff of Chester County” within twenty-one (21) days from the date of sale by 4PM. CAROLYN B. WELSH, SHERIFF 10p-24-3t Sheriff Sale of Real Estate By virtue of the within mentioned writs directed to Sheriff Carolyn B. Welsh, the herein-described real estate will be sold at public sale in the Chester County Justice Center at 201 W Market Street, 3rd Floor, Room 3300, West Chester, Pennsylvania, as announced on Thursday, November 15th, 2018 at 11AM. Notice is given to all parties in interest and claimants that the Sheriff will file with the Prothonotary and in the Sheriff’s Office, both located in the Chester County Justice Center, 201 W Market Street, West Chester, Pennsylvania, Schedules of Distribution on Monday, December 17th, 2018. Distribution will be made in accordance with the Schedules unless exceptions are filed in the Sheriff’s Office within ten (10) days thereafter.
SALE
thereof, at all times hereafter forever. Subject however to a proportionate part of the expense of maintaining and keeping the said right of way in good order and repair at all times hereafter forever.
BLR# 58-1-12.2
TITLE to said premises vested in Clarence W. Gray III by Deed from Clarence W. Gray III and Kathleen H. Gray, dated 2/4/2003 and recorded 2/25/2003 in Book 5583 Page 768
PLAINTIFF: Federal National Mortgage Association (“Fannie Mae”) VS
DEFENDANT: CLARENCE W. GRAY III
SALE ADDRESS: 727 Ewing Road, Cochranville, PA 19330
PLAINTIFF ATTORNEY: MARTHA E. VON ROSENSTIEL, ESQ., 610328-2887
N.B. Ten percent (10%) of the purchase money must be paid at the time and place of sale. Payment must be paid in cash, certified check, or money order made payable to the purchaser or “Sheriff of Chester County”. The balance must be made payable to “Sheriff of Chester County” within twenty-one (21) days from the date of sale by 4PM. CAROLYN B. WELSH, SHERIFF 10p-24-3t
Sheriff Sale of Real Estate
By virtue of the within mentioned writs directed to Sheriff Carolyn B. Welsh, the herein-described real estate will be sold at public sale in the Chester County Justice Center at 201 W Market Street, 3rd Floor, Room 3300, West Chester, Pennsylvania, as announced on Thursday, November 15th, 2018 at 11AM. Notice is given to all parties in interest and claimants that the Sheriff will file with the Prothonotary and in the Sheriff’s Office, both located in the Chester County Justice Center, 201 W Market Street, West Chester, Pennsylvania, Schedules of Distribution on Monday, December 17th, 2018. Distribution will be made in accordance with the Schedules unless exceptions are filed in the Sheriff’s Office within ten (10) days thereafter.
SALE NO. 18-11-634
Writ of Execution No. 2018-05230 DEBT $850,646.82
TRACT 1
ALL THAT CERTAIN lot of land, situate in the Township of Penn, County of Chester and Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, bounded and described according to a recent survey thereof made by S.J. Janney, as follows;
BEGINNING at a point in Route No. 12 or Baltimore Pike, center line, thence along the same north 82 degrees 45 minutes east about 344 feet to a point in said Pike; thence by land now or formerly of Frank Webster’s Estate north 81 degrees 15 minutes west 358 feet to an iron pin a corner of other land now or formerly of Rebecca Cornelius; thence by said other land south 07 degrees 15 minutes east 96 feet 9 inches, passing over an iron pin in the north bank of Route No. 12 to the place of beginning.
CONTAINING 17,000 square feet of land, be the same more or less.
TRACT 2
ALL THAT CERTAIN lot of land situate in the Township aforesaid, bounded and described as follows:
BEGINNING at a point in Route No. 12 or Baltimore Pike, a corner of land now or formerly of John Roberts; thence along said Pike or Route No. 12 south 82 degrees 45 minutes west 30 feet to a point in the same; thence by other land now
in the northwest side of Route No. 1) to beginning.
CONTAINING 11,733 square feet of
TRACT
ALL THAT CERTAIN lot or parcel of land being situate in the Township of Penn, County of Chester and Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, said tract being more particularly shown as Lot Number 2 on a Final Plan prepared for the Southern Chester County Y.M.C.A. by Lake Roeder Hillard and Beers, Civil Engineers, Land Surveyors, and Landscape Architects, dated 7/26/2000, said plan recorded in the Recorder of Deeds Office of Chester County of 3/21/2001 as Plan No. 9015700, and all the same being more fully bounded and described as follows, to wit:
BEGINNING at a point, said point being the southwest corner of the herein described Lot 2, said point also being a corner of property now or formerly of Kosmos, Fotios and Thomas Papadopoulos, of which the herein described is to be joined in common with, thence continuing along said property now or formerly of Kospos, Fotios and Thomas Papadopoulos, north 88 degrees 49 minutes 04 seconds west a distance of 395.15 feet to a point, a corner of property now or formerly of Brandywine Y.M.C.A. (Lot Number 1 as shown on the above described Final Plan); thence continuing along said property now or formerly of Brandywine Y.M.C.A. the following 4 courses: (1) north 15 degrees 55 minutes 26 seconds west a distance of 8.82 feet to a point; (2) north 89 degrees 08 minutes 18 seconds east a distance of 177.55 feet to a point; (3) south 88 degrees 10 minutes 16 seconds east a distance of 218.30 feet to a point; and (4) south 08 degrees 09 minutes 57 seconds west, a distance of 12.46 feet to a point, the point or place of beginning.
PREMISES appears to be vested in Djuki, Inc., a Pennsylvania Corporation by Deed from Howard Properties, LLC dated June 25, 2008 and recorded June 27, 2008 in Record Book 7467 Page 274.
CONTAINING an area of 5,013
feet of land, be the same more or
BEING UPI No. 58-3-7
PLAINTIFF: Malvern Bank, National Association VS DEFENDANT: DJUKI, Inc.
SALE ADDRESS: 890 Baltimore Pike, West Grove, PA 19390
PLAINTIFF ATTORNEY: CHRISTOPHER J. PIPPETT, ESQ., 610-4587500
N.B. Ten percent (10%) of the purchase money must be paid at the time and place of sale. Payment must be paid in cash, certified check, or money order made payable to the purchaser or “Sheriff of Chester County”. The balance must be made payable to “Sheriff of Chester County” within twenty-one (21) days from the date of sale by 4PM. CAROLYN B. WELSH, SHERIFF 10p-24-3t
Sheriff Sale of Real Estate
By virtue of the within mentioned writs directed to Sheriff Carolyn B. Welsh, the herein-described real estate will be sold at public sale in the Chester County Justice Center at 201 W Market Street, 3rd Floor, Room 3300, West Chester, Pennsylvania, as announced on Thursday, November 15th, 2018 at 11AM. Notice is given to all parties in interest and claimants that the Sheriff will file with the Prothonotary and in the Sheriff’s Office, both located in the Chester County Justice Center, 201 W Market Street, West Chester, Pennsylvania, Schedules of Distribution on Monday, December 17th, 2018. Distribution will be made in accordance with the Schedules unless exceptions are filed in the Sheriff’s Office within ten (10) days thereafter.
SALE NO. 18-11-638
Writ of Execution No. 2018-03894 DEBT $106,353.96
PROPERTY situate in Township of Lower Oxford
TAX Parcel #Tax ID/UPI Parcel No. 56-09D-0007/56-9D-7
IMPROVEMENTS: A residential dwelling.
PLAINTIFF: Lakeview Loan Servicing, LLC VS DEFENDANT: MATTHEW JOHNSON and AMANDA STRAUSS
SALE ADDRESS: 250 Ashmun Avenue, Lincoln University, PA 19352
PLAINTIFF ATTORNEY: KML LAW GROUP, P.C., 215-627-1322
Distribution
CONTAINING
ALL
N.B. Ten percent (10%) of the purchase money must be paid at the time and place of sale. Payment must be paid in cash, certified check, or money order made payable to the purchaser or “Sheriff of Chester County”. The balance must be made payable to “Sheriff of Chester County” within twenty-one (21) days from the date of sale by 4PM. CAROLYN B. WELSH, SHERIFF 10p-24-3t
PROPERTY situate in the Kennett Township, Chester County, Pennsylvania BLR# 62-4-220
IMPROVEMENTS thereon: residential dwelling
PLAINTIFF: U.S. Bank National Association, not in its individual capacity but solely as Trustee for The Rmac Trust, Series 2016-Ctt VS DEFENDANT: CASEY JONES and SAMANTHA KLEIN
SALE ADDRESS: 514 Mcfarlan Road, Kennett Square, PA 19348-2409
PLAINTIFF ATTORNEY: PHELAN HALLINAN DIAMOND & JONES, LLP, 215-563-7000
N.B. Ten percent (10%) of the purchase money must be paid at the time and place of sale. Payment must be paid in cash, certified check, or money order made payable to the purchaser or “Sheriff of Chester County”. The balance must be made payable to “Sheriff of Chester County” within twenty-one (21) days from the date of sale by 4PM. CAROLYN B. WELSH, SHERIFF 10p-24-3t Sheriff Sale of Real Estate
By virtue of the within mentioned writs directed to Sheriff Carolyn B. Welsh, the herein-described real estate will be sold at public sale in the Chester County Justice Center at 201 W Market Street, 3rd Floor, Room 3300, West Chester, Pennsylvania, as announced on Thursday, November 15th, 2018 at 11AM. Notice is given to all parties in interest and claimants that the Sheriff will file with the Prothonotary and in the Sheriff’s Office, both located in the Chester County Justice Center, 201 W Market Street, West Chester, Pennsylvania, Schedules of Distribution on Monday, December 17th, 2018. Distribution will be made in accordance with the Schedules unless exceptions are filed in the Sheriff’s Office within ten (10) days thereafter.
SALE NO. 18-11-645 Writ of Execution No. 2018-03503 DEBT $151,514.84
ALL THAT CERTAIN lot or piece of ground with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, hereditaments and appurtenances, situate in West Grove Borough, County of Chester and Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, bounded and described according to a survey made by Arthur Crowell, as follows:
CONTAINING 9,000 square feet more or less.
BEING known as 219 West Summit Avenue, West Grove, PA 19390.
BEING the same premises which Theodore P. Waltz and Deborah A. Waltz, husband and wife, by Deed dated 09/19/2005 and recorded 10/03/2005 in the Office of the Recorder of Deeds in and for the County of Chester, in Deed Book 6637, Page 2276, granted and conveyed unto Rodolfo Garcia Pantoja and Juan Guzman Tenorio, in fee.
PLAINTIFF: JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association VS DEFENDANT: RODOLFO GARCIA PANTOJA a/k/a RODOLFO GARCIA P. and JUAN GUZMAN TENORIO
SALE ADDRESS: 219 West Summit Avenue, West Grove, PA 19390
PLAINTIFF ATTORNEY: SHAPIRO & DeNARDO, LLC, 610-278-6800
N.B. Ten percent (10%) of the purchase money must be paid at the time and place of sale. Payment must be paid in cash, certified check, or money order made payable to the purchaser or “Sheriff of Chester County”. The balance must be made payable to “Sheriff of Chester County” within twenty-one (21) days from the date of sale by 4PM. CAROLYN B. WELSH, SHERIFF 10p-24-3t Sheriff Sale of Real Estate By virtue of the within mentioned writs directed to Sheriff Carolyn B. Welsh, the herein-described real estate will be sold at public sale in the Chester County Justice Center at 201 W Market Street, 3rd Floor, Room 3300, West Chester, Pennsylvania, as announced on Thursday, November 15th, 2018 at 11AM. Notice is given to all parties in interest and claimants that the Sheriff will file with the Prothonotary and in the Sheriff’s Office,
Bell and Warren named top seniors in Oxford
Parkesburg inventor
Continued from Page 1B
His patent was approved only three weeks ago, and Bellezza is anxiously awaiting clearance of his two other ideas that, combined with this patent, could launch him into the rarefied world of alternative energy production and make him a giant in the field.
But it’s a slow process.
“The Patent Office says you need something better and newer. So everyone who applies is making small advances,” he said. “But if you go way beyond, you’re 20 years before your time, they have no frame of reference to see if what you’re doing works. So I’ve been tenacious, refiling the
same thing all over again.
The motherlode has been in the Patent Office for quite some time.”
For someone on the verge of something very big, Bellezza works in humble surroundings. He has moved from a shed in his back yard to his basement while some renovations are going on, but he has high-value equipment and supplies that put him on almost the same footing as inventors working in corporate labs.
He has enough to prove his ideas work. All that’s left is for industry to catch up.
“I’ve always been involved in some sort of scientific activity,” he said.
“I’ve been fascinated by metals all my life.” For now, while the other two crucial patents grind their way through the
approval process, Bellezza is seeking companies that use thermoelectric modules who would be willing to give his process a try. His work has already put him on the international radar, and “Paul from Parkesburg” is a name with online celebrity in the scientific community Bellezza is part of.
“This is an invention whose time has come,” he said. “I’m in the process of letting people know about this, because it’s only been a short time that I could talk about it. But it proves you can accomplish something if you stick with it.”
To contact Staff Writer John Chambless, email jchambless@ chestercounty.com
Oxford Area High School students Kaitlin Bell and Finn Warren were recently honored as Oxford Rotary Club Seniors of the Month for October.
Kaitlin, daughter of Tiffany and David Bell, is a member of National Honor Society and president of the high school’s chapter of Future Farmers of America. Beginning in her freshman year, Kaitlin has been a member of the second cohort of students to be enrolled at Cecil College as part of the high school’s Early College Academy program.
The program gives students the opportunity to take college credit courses taught by Cecil professors at both the high school and at the North East, Maryland campus. This spring, Kaitln and the other cohort members will be awarded associate’s degrees from Cecil College in addition to receiving their high school diplomas.
Growing up on her family’s farm, Kaitlin has been a member of the Chester County 4H Club since she was eight years old, raising and showing Angus cattle at local and state livestock competitions. In high school she began judging cattle as well, and was a member of a 4H team that was named Pennsylvania state champions in
Be inspired by a new experience.
the livestock judging competition at the 2016 Penn State 4H State Achievement Days event. With this honor, the team qualified to participate in livestock judging competitions throughout the United States. After earning top three finishes at the National Western Stock Show in Denver, Colorado and the Fort Worth Stock Show in Fort Worth, Texas, Kaitlin’s team qualified to compete in the International Livestock Judging Contest at the Royal Highlands Livestock Show in Scotland, traveling last fall with over 50 other 4H members from across the United States on a trip that also included a visit to Ireland.
This past January, Kaitlin was crowned 2018 Pennsylvania Angus Queen at the Pennsylvania Farm Show. She was eligible for the honor as a threeyear active member of the Pennsylvania Junior Angus Association, and throughout this year has traveled to livestock shows throughout Pennsylvania and the United States to promote Angus cattle production.
After graduation Kaitlin plans to attend Kansas State University to study agricultural business management.
Finn, son of Jenifer and Kevin Warren, is a member of National Honor Society, National
English Honor Society and the Spanish Honor Society. He is treasurer of the high school’s chapter of Interact, a community service club of Rotary International sponsored locally by the Oxford Rotary Club. Finn is president of the high school’s chapter of Aevidum, a youth empowerment initiative that promotes conversation and awareness about mental health issues and suicide prevention. Formed by a group of students at Cocolico High School in Lancaster County in 2003, Aevidum has grown to include over 150 clubs in elementary, middle, and high schools and colleges throughout Pennsylvania and other states.
Finn is student liaison to the Oxford Educational Foundation and a voting member of its Board of Directors. He serves on the organization’s Special Projects Committee, which reviews and awards enrichment grants to Oxford Area School District teachers for classroom projects and materials. Finn was recently named an AP Scholar with Distinction for scoring 3.5 or higher on all AP exams taken or 3 or higher on five or more AP exams. After graduation he plans to attend Swarthmore College to study psychology.
Don't miss the last Meet & Greets of 2018!
When you work for an organization with the highest standards of care, exceptional resources, and top professionals, your career will thrive. That’s why you should explore a future at Tower Health, where collaboration enables our hospitals, leadership, and staff to leverage best practices systemwide. Meet our staff, and learn how you can grow your career at our: RN, PCA and MA Meet & Greets
Tuesdays, November 6th and November 13th 8 am - 10 am and 4 pm - 5:30 pm
Meet and Greets will be held at all Tower Health hospitals: Reading Hospital • 300 S. 6th Avenue, M Building • West Reading, PA
Brandywine Hospital • 201 Reeceville Road • Coatesville, PA
Chestnut Hill Hospital • 8835 Germantown Avenue • Philadelphia, PA
Jennersville Hospital • 1015 West Baltimore Pike • West Grove, PA Phoenixville Hospital • 140 Nutt Road • Phoenixville, PA
Pottstown Hospital • 13 Armand Hammer Boulevard, Suite 320, Pottstown, PA 19464 (The Chesmont Building)
• Pre-registration is not required.
• At your facility of choice, ask for the HR Department at the front entrance. Can’t make the Meet & Greet?
Attend our Virtual Career Fair
Wednesdays, November 7th and 14th from 11 am – 1 pm
For details and to register, visit: careers.towerhealth.org/events
For current openings and to learn more about us, visit: careers.towerhealth.org
Courtesy photo
Oxford Area High School students Kaitlin Bell and Finn Warren were honored as Oxford Rotary Club Seniors of the Month for October. From left are David, Tiffany and Kaitlin Bell; Rotary Club President Dr. Raymond Fischer; and Finn and Kevin Warren.
WewouldliketosincerelyandpubliclysayTHANKYOUtoeveryone atJeffD’AmbrosioChevroletandCountryCDJRinOxford! THANKYOUtotheOxfordcommunityaswellasthePolice DepartmentsofOxford,WestChesterandthePAStatePD!THANK YOUtoeveryonewhohasprovidedfood,comfortandtheirhours spentwithourfamilyduringthismostdifficulttime.THANKYOUto everyonewhohascontributedanddonatedtotheAlgarinFamilyFund EventandviaGoFundMe.ItiswithGREATLOVEand APPRECIATIONthatwe,theAlgarinFamilyandourextended Family,THANKEVERYONEforALLthattheyhavedone.You haveallbeenaweSAM!MayGodContinuetoBlessUsAll.
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Always be humble and kind family
life’s greatest blessing, a group that dreams, laughs, plays and loves together. those whom you can always count on. always present not only in the good times. the most precious gift On behalfofRosa Algarin and the family of
Fashion night in Unionville
Oxford High School honors top students
Oxford Area High School recently held a breakfast to recognize the school’s Students of the Month for October. Each month teachers in selected departments nominate underclassmen for this honor, with the final selections made by the school administration.
Students of the Month are chosen based on criteria including demonstrating an effort and desire to learn; involvement in school and classroom activities; respect for all school policies and personnel; concern for the school community and friendliness and support for other students. The following Students of the Month for October were named after being nominated by members of the world language, English as a Second Language and family & consumer science departments.
Abby Oliver, freshman: Nominating teacher Katie Gotwols said, “Abby is hardworking, punctual and takes an interest in Spanish language and culture. Abby recently shared photos from her trip to Europe with the class, and I loved how willing she was to teach the class about a valuable cultural experience. She was not shy about sharing and took the time to connect with her classmates.
“Abby also frequently demonstrates outstanding academic performance. She is kind, respectful and polite toward all peers.”
Madison D’Antonio, sophomore: Nominating teacher Monica Brown said, “Maddy works well with her peers in her kitchen lab group. She has completed all assignments and asks for help when needed.”
Isabella Taubar, sophomore: Nominating teacher Laura Shaw said, “Isabella always has a positive attitude, is happy and always tries to use Spanish in class.”
Alyssa Gilley, junior: Nominating teacher Diane Hauser said, “Alyssa is positive and regularly encourages her classmates and the preschoolers in our child care lab. This energy is appreciated since she is responsible for helping in the preschool environment several days a week.
“Alyssa has
enthusiastically directed the children in previous years and I expect her to take on more leadership this year. She has the ability to become an excellent teacher and I am hopeful that this is a field she considers in the future.”
Pamela Rios Hernandez, junior: English as a Second Language teacher Christina Boyer said, “Pamela continues to show a desire to learn even when there are barriers due to language. She is focused on continuing her education after high school and strives to achieve an understanding of material in her classes in order to transfer her learning to her college years.”
Hunter Kalinowski, junior: Nominating teacher Kara Emig said, “Hunter is a hardworking student who always makes sure everything is done with perfection. She comes to class every day with a smile and a positive attitude.
“Hunter makes the best out of every situation, making sure to find the bright side. She is always respectful and is a role model for other students. She is also academically talented along with being an all-around nice person.” Matt Todd, junior: Nominating teacher Anna Colvin said, “This is the second year that I’ve had Matt in class and he consistently proves to be one of the most hardworking students I’ve had the pleasure to teach. He is always volunteering, making an effort to speak in Spanish, and works great with others, especially those who may need extra help.
“Matt is extremely respectful and always reliable. He advocates for himself and others when needed.”
Jose Ochoa Torres, junior: Nominating teacher Isabel Ocampo said, “Jose is a pleasure to teach. He is a dedicated student who keeps a consistent positive attitude and always puts forth an effort.
“Jose uses as much French as possible in the classroom and has made and has made so much progress as a French learner in only a month. It is impressive how he is able to find patterns and is eager to learn.”
Courtesy photo
Oxford Area High School recently named its Students of the Month for October. Seated from left are sophomore Isabella Taubar, freshman Abby Oliver, sophomore Madison D’Antonio and junior Ashley Jones. Standing from left are juniors Hunter Kalinowski, Matt Todd and Pamela Rios Hernandez. Juniors Alyssa Gilley and Jose Ochoa Torres are not pictured.
Photo by Richard L. Gaw
Award-wining clothing designer David Ferron (left) opened his Unionville Saddle studio on Oct. 23 for ‘Golden Hour,’ an evening of style, fashion and ideas. Design consultant Suzie Gaffney and jewelry designer Alexis
Kletjian (also pictured) provided guests with styling tips. Hors d’oeuvres were provided by Catherine’s Restaurant, and wine was donated by Chaddsford Winery.
Pocopson Elementary club spreads kindness
One of the dozens of enthusiastic students at the Chester County Family Academy smiled broadly before delivering his assessment of an outreach by Pocopson Elementary School’s Kids with Heart Club.
“This is almost like Christmas, but with food,” he said exuberantly as he surveyed the sea of red grocery bags in the entranceway of the K-2 charter school.
The 45 members of the Pocopson club, created to foster kindness, compassion, and service to others, specialize in living up to the club’s mantra: “Kindness is the new cool.”
Dashing for education
For the second year in a row, they partnered with the Chester County Sheriff’s Office to transport healthful food items to the Chester County Family Academy (CCFA).
Brian Carr, and Deputy Sheriff Matthew Cataudella assisted with the effort.
Lt. Harry McKinney, accompanied by K-9 Melody, Deputy Sheriff
Janis Michels, one of the five parents who oversee the club, explained that the initiative is part of the “Good-for-You Groceries” project. It is sponsored by a national nonprofit, Heaven on Earth NOW.
Michels said the inaugural program was so well-received at both schools that the organizers doubled the output this year so that all 95 students at the charter school would take home a bag of nutritious food items. Also different this year: Three of the club’s supervisors – Michels, Eileen Day, and Tracy Wahl – were able to participate in the transport and delivery.
Chester County
Everyone enjoyed the 10th annual Kennett Education Foundation Monster Mash Dash held on Oct. 28. The community-based,
Sheriff Carolyn Bunny Welsh, who serves on the board of the Chester County Family Academy (CCFA), said she was delighted to continue the partnership. She described last year’s interaction between the two groups of special children as heart-warming.
“Not only do I hope this bond will last, but I also hope the Sheriff’s Office can always contribute to making it happen,” she said. “We can all benefit by spreading kindness. This is a win for everyone.”
After arriving at CCFA on Monday, Oct. 15, 2018, the Pocopson
non-profit foundation is committed to supporting and enriching the educational experience in the Kennett
Elementary parents got to meet all of the K-2 students and teachers as well as Susan Flynn, the academy’s chief executive officer. CCFA was founded in 1997 to carry out the vision of local philanthropists Dick and Sheila Sanford “to make a difference in the lives of children.” English is a second language for most of the families, who value education but struggle financially, Flynn said. Flynn took the visitors to each of the school’s four classes, where Michels explained the club’s mission. She said the bags’ contents were carefully purchased and collated last week by the club’s members,
Consolidated School District by providing education grants to educators and students, and scholarships to graduating seniors.
who are third-, fourth-, and fifth-graders. Each bag also contained a hand-written note to its recipient from one of the Pocopson students. During the tour, the gleeful CCFA students repeatedly expressed thanks to the club’s organizers, and one class even treated the guests to a song they were learning: “Put a Little Love in Your Heart.” Michels said she was confident that her awestruck reaction to the performance was shared by her colleagues.
“We’re the ones who just got a gift,” she said. The other parents nodded in agreement.
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Courtesy photo Deputy Sheriff Matthew Cataudella gives a high-five to one of the CCFA students. (#206) Members of the Chester County Sheriff’s Office, including K-9 Melody, pose with Susan Flynn, chief executive officer of the Chester County Family Academy, and three of the Kids with Heart Club’s organizers.
Courtesy photo
CCFA students, some of whom coincidentally sport t-shirt that reflect the Pocopson club’s mission, pose in front of the grocery bags.
Shannon Somma Photography
