Chester County Press 12-23-2020 Edition

Chester CountyPRESS

www.chestercounty.com

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

Volume 154, No. 50

INSIDE

Wednesday, December 23, 2020

$1.00

No tax increase in Oxford Borough

By Betsy Brewer Brantner Contributing Writer

Oxford Borough Council finalized a budget for 2021 on Monday night, and there KHS Humanitarian Club will be no tax increase for gives back...1B residents. The millage rate will stay at 12 mills.

Despite one of the most difficult years ever because of the pandemic, the Borough of Oxford has had a very successful year.

They completed their multimodal transportation center, moved into a new borough hall, and made necessary police upgrades and kept the budget in check.

The budget was approved by a vote of 6-1. The one nay vote came from counLincoln University cil member Ron Hershey receives large gift...5B who said, “The 2021 budget is troubling to me. We are taking $300,000 out of capital to cover this budget.

This is a big gap. Our surplus will soon be gone. The difference between income and expenses is only going to get worse without a tax

increase. I’m not going to be able to vote for this budget tonight.”

Council member Amanda Birdwell asked Hershey if there were line items to change. “We have to have a budget. My understanding is we don’t have any room to change,” she said.

Hershey replied, “I haven’t seen how we are going to increase the revenue side by enticing more people into our town.”

Mayor Phil Harris disagreed, saying, “I think we have been conservative in revenue due to the pandemic. We have a former borough hall that should sell in the next year. I really think Council did a great job this year.”

Hershey cited the new police officer they would be hiring in the new year saying, “I’m in favor of replacing the officer we lost, but I don’t think we can add another officer. I think we have to find another way to pay for them.”

Birdwell responded by

Photo by Chris Barber

Santa Claus offers a friendly wave to neighbors from atop a Kennett Fire Company truck on Sunday afternoon. The sirens alerted residents to the arrival of Santa as he rode around the streets of the borough, greeting fans along the route.

saying, “I respect your opinion, but we need to pass a budget. The officer we are hiring will be helping victims of violent crimes.”

Council president Peggy Ann Russell said, “I respect your history, Ron, but

I would be negligent if I didn’t say when we reduced taxes last year it really set us up for where we are today, and the pandemic has certainly not helped.”

Council approved the budget.

One visitor to the council meeting might be bringing some future aid to the borough’s financial situation—developer Steven Frost.

Frost is no stranger to Continued on page 2A

Van Gogh visits Kennett Square Bove Jewelers has converted its store into an art museum for the holidays—featuring artwork by masters like Van Gogh, Picasso, Degas, Seurat and Chagall A Longwood Christmas ...1B

By Steven Hoffman Staff Writer

Bove Jewelers, the premier jewelry store in Chester County, has enhanced its store at 124 W. State St. in Kennett Square Opinion.......................5A by adding an exhibit of Obituaries..............2B-3B fine art that features a stunClassifieds..................4B ning collection of pieces by the masters—Van Gogh, Chagall, Seurat, Picasso, Dalí, Degas, Erte’ and Warhol, among them.

The exhibit is comprised of donations from customers’ private collections.

The jewelry store is owned by brothers Bob and Matt Strehlau, whose family has been in the jewelry business for six generations.

The closing of art museums at different times this year due to COVID-19 restrictions devastated art lovers everywhere. As art enthusiasts themselves, the Strehlau brothers hoped to bring some holiday cheer to the community by opening their very own art museum at the Kennett Square location.

“This pandemic has separated people from art, preventing them

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INDEX

© 2007 The Chester County Press

Courtesy photo

Bob and Matt Stehlau are pictured with a Vincent Van Gogh original titled ‘Landscape with Tree.’

from enjoying beauty and being inspired,” said Bob Strehlau.

It was Matt Strehlau, the Bove Jewelers COO, who suggested turning the jew-

elry store into a “museum” to display original masterpieces owned by Chester County residents for people to enjoy with their families over the holidays. So, they

contacted their clients for a big ask—to borrow their precious art.

“We now have nearly 50 pieces of fine art that, for a limited time, will be

on display in our store,” said Bob Strehlau. The Bove Private Collection consists of the headliner, a Vincent Van Gogh Continued on page 4A

New Garden preserves 7.8-acre Landenberg property

By Richard L. Gaw Staff Writer In a township that is becoming more and more known for its devotion to preserving open spaces, New Garden Township has just protected another 7.8 acres of pristine land, in perpetuity.

At their Dec. 21 meeting, the New Garden Township Board of Supervisors approved an easement and agreement of sale for the

purchase of the Penn Green Easement, a wooded stretch along the White Clay Creek that has been owned for several years by the Hiles family on Penn Green Road.

The acquisition was conducted through a partnership between Natural Lands and the township’s Open Space Review Board (OSRB). The entire property is assessed at $234,000 – or $30,000 per acre – and the total cost of the purchase was $520,000.

The township has already

secured $284,000 in grant funding for the purchase, and the remaining balance of the purchase is likely to be paid for through an additional $235,600 in grants in 2021.

“The botanical survey of the township refers to this area as the ‘Canyon Country’ of the White Clay Creek,” said Kate Raman, a conservation project manager with Natural Lands and a consultant to the OSRB. “The creek lies at

the bottom of a forested ravine and the steep slopes on either side of the creek anchor the site, so there is a real feeling of closure and privacy.”

Raman said the purchase and preservation of the property enhances the township’s trail connections, as highlighted in its 2019 Trail Prioritization Plan. The property will serve as another notch in the township’s commitment to preserving natural

land -- and developing a corridor of nature trails -through Landenberg and Avondale. Dating back to the township’s 2009 Greenways Plan, 20 sites were identified as potential trail areas and since that time, the OSRB has worked with Natural Lands, the Friends of the Trails and a stakeholder committee to facilitate these efforts.

With the acquisition of the Hiles property, the OSRB Continued on page 3A

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CHESTER COUNTY PRESS

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2020

Chester County Press

Local News Oxford taxes...

Continued from Page 1A

Oxford, having developed Wiltshire and Elk Ridge Estates. And Frost has been waiting for the right moment to develop the Moran farm, which he acquired years ago. He had a number of obstacles, including waiting for sewer capacity and an upturn for a depressed housing market.

The new plan, as was explained to council, is a restricted-age community, which would include residents ages 55 and up.

The plan would require a change in zoning because it would retain some of the property for a small farm.

The proposal would include 167 lots using public water and sewer.

Approximately 94 lots are in the Oxford Borough and the remaining lots are in East Nottingham Township.

According to Anthony McGuire from Ryan Homes, housing prices would start in the $300,000 range.

“We are proposing a ranch-style home with two bedrooms or three bedrooms and a two-car garage.

The community will offer sidewalks on both side of the road, and we will have a community club house,” McGuire said.

Frost has other developments in the area, including Spring Valley Farms in Montgomery County and Sadsbury Park in Sadsbury Township.

According to McGuire’s research, since it is an agerestricted development it would have no impact on the school district and would also have lower traffic, while increasing property-tax revenue. The development will be discussed further in the upcoming months.

Brian Dix, the OMI Mainstreet Manager, gave council an update on the business district saying, “I’m happy to report that Small Business Saturday was one of the best days of the year, and one of best yet.

We had fantastic weather, and thank Oxford Borough for free parking meters as well.”

The Shoebox Theater continues to move forward and is close to getting funding to finish its bathrooms.

Dix is hoping to do more video pieces. “I have the opportunity to do stories of downtown and I’m working on that,” he said.

Dix also thanked Mary Behringer, who has been a volunteer with OMI since day one.

Council announced a change in the schedule of some council meetings in January and February due to holidays. All meeting dates and times are available on the website and oxfordboro. org.

Police Chief Sam Iacono told council that Civil Service had approved four candidates for the eligibility list. Council will be informed about the

approved candidates over the next few weeks.

Both the Chief and Corporal Scott Brown are setting up the new Crime Watch website which will eventually give access to the public, council and the press. They expect it to be completed in January.

Mayor Harris reported a savings of $8,500 by working with Corporal Brown and Chief Iacono to secure a new engine through General Motors under their warranty.

Harris reminded everyone that the Oxford Police Department Toy Drive was going very well working with the public and Oxford Chamber of Commerce.

Toys will be delivered on Christmas Eve. The Public Works Department was thanked for their efforts in snow removal and clearing parking spots.

In other business, a motion was approved in the amount

of $554.87 for Codes Official Training for Rachel Greer to attend a four-day training session.

Motions were approved in the amount of $16,000 for Brentage Chemical, and for Univar USA in the amount of $31,000.

A motion was approved for Payment Application #2 to Armour & Sons Electric in the amount of $2,531.95 for Regional Streetlight Procurement Project and the KSL Invoice Phase 2 Project Development in the amount of $6,350.40. When this payment is made the borough will get the PECO rebate.

Richard Nelson was appointed to the Planning Commission.

However, another vacancy still exists.

Council also approved a motion to authorize the advertising of the Borough Management Ordinance Amendment.

A motion to adopt

Resolution #1303-2020 Approving to codify Civil Service Commission’s rules and regulations was approved.

A motion to advertise Changes in the Language of Chapter 21, Part 7, Sidewalk Construction and Repair was approved.

A motion to Repeal Oxford Police Department General Order 1.3 and Adopt new Oxford Police Department General Order1.3, Body Worn and Mobile Camera System was approved.

Interim borough manager Arlene Harrison reported that the borough had received a check for over $60,000 from the anonymous donor and will receive one in 2021 and 2022.

Harrison also announced that the borough office will close at noon on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve. Russell ended the meeting by thanking Council

member Robert Ketcham for reminding her of the significance of the night sky.

This year the “Christmas Star,” also called the “Kiss of the Planets,” was visible in some places. The best time to see this is an hour after sunset. Russell said, “A tough year is behind us and we have tackled some very difficult issues. And today is the shortest day in the northern hemisphere.”

She ended the meeting with a few lines from a poem titled “Shortest Day” written by Susan Cooper: So the shortest day came, and the year died.

As promise wakens in the sleeping land: They carol, feast, give thanks, And dearly love their friends, And hope for peace.

And now so do we, here, now, This year and every year.

Kennett board approves township’s 2021 budget

By Richard L. Gaw Staff Writer By a 3-0 vote at their Dec. 16 online meeting, the Kennett Township Board of Supervisors officially adopted the township’s 2021 budget, one that features a projected $6.09 million in revenue, $5.6 million in operating expenses and no real estate tax increase for residents.

It does, however, include a local services tax at a rate of $52 a year -- $1 a week -- that will be levied on those residents who are employed in the township, as well as funding for infrastructure improvements in the township; contributions to the regional Fire and EMS Commission; and a contribution to the Kennett Library Capital Campaign.

On the revenue side of the township’s general fund, its projected revenues will be slightly higher than the

$5.86 million it generated this year, and its expense sheet represents a $72,000 increase over the $5.47 million that was estimated to be spent this year.

After a presentation of a preliminary budget on Nov. 18 by Ratliff and Finance and Human Resources Director Amy Heinrich, the board approved the budget by a vote of 3-0.

“We wanted to make sure that we continued our capital investment,” Ratliff said.

“There were some cuts in mid-year 2020 in our budgeting process on infrastructure upgrades, so I think we have done a much better job of ensuring that we will have the funds for that next year.”

Dotting the Is and crossing the Ts on the township’s budget was preceded by several public meetings – as well as input generated from email and offline communication -- to better ensure that the residents’ concerns

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would be reflected in the final numbers.

It was a two-way street of dialogue, Ratliff said.

“We heard from people who asked that we redirect our focus on infrastructure upgrades, and members of the community made us aware of some of the road services that were not getting the attention they deserved,” he said. “We also heard some input on sewer projects and sewer expansion, and we had lots of opinions on both sides of the spectrum on policing philosophy, strategy and the building out of the department.”

Throughout the budgetmaking process, the township heard a familiar chorus from its residents: In a year that has been severely impacted by a deadly virus, now is not the time to increase taxes, and that the township should seek to reduce its budget where it can.

In response, the township will hire one full-time officer in January, but delay hiring a second officer until May. The township will also stand pat on the hiring of a new planner in its planning and zoning department until next May or June.

While the township has held the line on tax increases for 2021, Ratliff is foreshadowing a likely bump in taxes for 2022.

“In 2020 development process, we did float the idea of a tax increase to specifically

support the capital campaign to support construction of the new Kennett Library and then we also floated a tax increase this year,” Ratliff said.

“While neither tax increase was instituted, it does allow us to glimpse into what we can expect recommendation wise when we start develop our 2022 budget.

“If you look at the run rate of government operations, it will be at its most costly in August and September, so if you assume those costs going into the 2022 budget development process, we know that the bottom line is going to be higher than it is now,” Ratliff added. “That means we can either have to do with less investment on the capital side, increase our revenues, or cut previously implemented government services.

“It will likely be a compromise between the three, but until we get to that process, I can’t profess to know how that process will play out.”

The alleged embezzlement of $3.2 million by former township manager Lisa Moore will not be factored into the township’s 2021 budget. About $1 million of the total has already been recovered and directed back into township’s reserves, as will the remaining money still expected to be recovered.

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

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2020

CHESTER COUNTY PRESS

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Chester County Press

Local News New Garden...

Continued from Page 1A

has now preserved more than 300 acres in the township. To date, 18 percent of New Garden Township has been protected from development.

Property owner Cindy Hiles told the board that she first discussed the idea to place a conservation easement on her property with the township in April of 2019.

“My family and I have been extremely fortunate to call Landenberg our home, and we love everything about this property,” she told the board. “For the past 30 years, the banks of the White Clay Creek have

been our home and we have enjoyed being neighbors to nature, the wildlife and the trees and the peaceful pace of life in the rural village of Landenberg. When it came time to make the extremely difficult decision to downsize and leave, we struggled with the idea that a potential buyer may not share the same interest for presentation.

“Conserving open space in Landenberg is critical for maintaining what is so special about our community, and knowing that our family and others will be able to hike and fish, or simply sit and contemplate, made this difficult to leave a bit easier.

“Simply put, it just feels

right to save this space and make it accessible for everyone to appreciate and enjoy,” Hiles added.

“Preserving habitat on the wild and scenic White Clay Creek in perpetuity is a legacy that my family is proud to be a part of.”

No tax increases for 2021

In other township business, the supervisors officially adopted the township’s 2021 budget, which will include no increase in taxes for the coming year.

The 2021 budget calls for Township’s sale of sewer expenditures of $15.7 milsystem completed lion, $6.3 million of which will be stored in the genBoard Chairman Pat eral fund. It represents a Little said that the townslight uptick from the bud- ship is finalizing the sale of its wastewater system to Essential Utilities, Inc. (previously Aqua Pennsylvania Wastewater, Inc.), in the amount of $29,756,567.05.

The company’s payment was anticipated to be received by the township on Dec. 22.

When the transference of money is seen in the 2021 draft budget by Dec. township’s account, it 23. Residents can look will signify the end of a at the draft budget at the four-year journey of negotitownship building or on ations that began in August the township’s website at of 2016, when the New eastmarlborough.org.

Garden Township Sewer In the draft budget, Authority and Aqua entered income and expenses are into an agreement to transexpected to be $3.548 fer the ownership of the million. In the sewer fund, township’s sewage system income and expenses are to Aqua. The application expected to be $1.331 received approval from the million. The liquid fuels Pennsylvania Public Utility fund have income and Commission on June 29, expenses of $467,267 in 2017. the draft budget, and the He said that the board Unionville Park Fund is will make a presentation expected to have income to township residents in of $145,654.55 and January about how the expenses of $91,850. township intends to use the

Taxes likely to remain the same in East Marlborough Township

By Monica Thompson Fragale Contributing Writer East Marlborough residents will see their taxes remain the same in 2021.

The township supervisors voted Dec. 7 to approve the 2021 tax rates, which Board Chairman Robert McKinstry said will stay at 2.183 mills, the same as in previous years. A mill is $1 for every $1,000 of assessed valuation.

Real estate taxes include 1.05 mills for general purposes, 0.2

mills for open space preservation, 0.183 for the Kennett Library, 0.675 mils for fire protection, and 0.075 mills for fire and EMS. The $52 annual local services tax remains the same; that tax is for people who work in East Marlborough.

The fire hydrant tax is $26.73, and the Unionville Village Street Light tax is 50 cents “per lineal foot of measurable and applicable property frontage against all benefitted properties,” according to the ordinance.

The supervisors are expected to approve the

get expenditures of 2020, which totaled $13.19 million, but is less than the $18.6 million that was spent in 2019, when $5 million was placed in the township’s capital fund to help pay for the construction of the new facility for the Southern Chester County Regional Police Department.

On the township’s income side, the 2021 budget lists $13.04 million in expected revenue, and an additional $2.7 million in budgeted funds.

Courtesy photo

The New Garden Township Board of Supervisors has approved an easement and agreement of sale for the purchase of a 7.8-acre pristine and wooded stretch along the White Clay Creek in Landenberg.

money from the sale to pay for township services, as well as provide strategies for how it plans to invest the funds.

“The logic will be to take the money and place it into the capital fund and in operating expenses, which should last us for a couple of years, and then invest the rest of it in 10 to 20-year investments,” he said. “We have been in the process of figuring out how we are going to set up the expenditures of some of the money.

My recommendation is that we will not present the plan until the money is in the bank and we can do it correctly.”

The board also approved the final payment for the

completion of Phase II of the New Garden Township Park expansion, in the amount of $126,400. The project was completed at $74,000 under its original budget.

The supervisors also issued a township proclamation to Toughkenamon resident Cecelia Julia Wright Rochester, on the occasion of her 101st birthday. A long-time member of the Mt. Taber AME Church in Avondale, Rochester is the mother of 17 children, 34 grandchildren, 34 great grandchildren and 17 great great grandchildren.

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

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CHESTER COUNTY PRESS

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2020

Chester County Press

Local News

Courtesy photos

Vincent Van Gogh’s ‘Landscape with Tree.’

Bove Jewelers...

Continued from Page 1A

reality and find that same inner peace. This can be the perfect way for people to refresh their mindset as we enter a new year.�

The exhibit is free for visitors and is open through Jan. 4. The health The Bove Private Collection consists of pieces by Marc Chagall, George Seurat, Pablo Picasso, Salvador Dali, and safety of customers is Edgar Degas, Erte’ and Andy Warhol’s original painting of the Beatles’ John Lennon. the top priority. at Bove Jewelers. The store is following all CDC, state, and local guidelines related to COVID-19 so only a few people at a time will be permitted in the store. Visitors are required to wear a mask, and the store is operating at 50 percent capacity and following social distancing guidelines.

Contact Bob or Matt Strehlau for more information and to schedule a personal tour by their curators by calling 610444-4525 or emailing BoveJewelers@yahoo.com.

Established in 1929, Bove Jewelers offers customers designer and custom jewelry, platinum, gold, specialty items, watches and giftware.

original titled ‘Landscape with Tree.’ Also on display are pieces by Marc Chagall, George Seurat, Pablo Picasso, Salvador Dali, Edgar Degas, Erte’ and Andy Warhol’s original painting of the Beatles’ John Lennon.

Established in 1929, Bove Jewelers offers customers designer and custom jewelry, platinum, gold, specialty items, watches and giftware. Bob Strehlau purchased the business in 2016 after managing it for the previous 15 years. The Strehlau brothers love the fact that they can offer this rare opportunity to view the work of some of history’s best artists, especially during a time that has been so difficult for so many.

Bob explained, “Art is the perfect way to escape reality, and to be pulled into an artist’s world. I have always drawn inspiration, solace, and peace from art.

My hope is that after enduring such a challenging year, To contact Staff Writer our store can offer people Steven Hoffman, email edi- The exhibit is comprised of donations from customers’ private collections. another place to escape tor@chestercounrty.com.

Kennett Square man charged with indecent assault on a minor and related offenses Fabian MondragonGonzalez, 27, a resident of Kennett Square, was charged by police with indecent assault, aggravated indecent assault of a child, corruption of minors and related offenses on Nov. 9.

These charges are the result of an investigation

of Mondragon-Gonzalez allegedly having inappropriate contact with a minor child. Charges were filed with District Court 15-3-04 and an arrest warrant was issued for the suspect on Dec. 3, according to the Kennett Square Police Department report.

Bove Jewelers, the premier jewelry store in Chester County, has enhanced its store at 124 W. State St. in Kennett Square by adding an exhibit of fine art that features a stunning collection of pieces by the masters.

Sappey and Shusterman announce more than $1.7 million to protect and support victims of abuse State Reps. Christina Sappey and Melissa Shusterman, both D-Chester, applauded the awarding of more than $1.7 million in Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency grants to Chester County organizations and agencies.

The funds, approved by the PCCD, will support a variety of programs and services, including adult probation services, body-worn camera initiatives, domestic abuse programs and more. “Unfortunately, we are seeing an increase in incidents of domestic violence and abuse

due in part to the isolation we are experiencing during the pandemic� Sappey said. “This funding will directly help victims and give those who need rehabilitation the tools they need.� “Women, children and other victims of abuse deserve a safe space to call home and programs that can help them get back on their feet,� Shusterman said. “I am thrilled about the amount of money coming to Chester County to help these individuals reclaim their lives and move forward in a safe, healthy environment. We

have to do more to help victims of abuse and their loved ones.�

The grants awarded in Chester County are as follows: Improvement of adult probation services funds • Chester County Improvement of Adult Probation Services - $533,144.

Federal STOP violence against women formula grant funds • Chester County Commissioners - Chester County STOP Grant 2021 - $124,992.

• The Crime Victims’ Center of Chester County - RASA/VOJO Project 2021-22 - $698,379. • Domestic Violence Center of Chester County - Providing Rights and Services to Victims - $55,014.

State Children’s Advocacy Center Funds • Chester County Commissioners - CAC Assistant 2021- $47,000.

CACAC State Endowment Act Funds Chester County Commissioners - Program to be determined - $318,377.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2020

CHESTER COUNTY PRESS

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Chester County Press

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

Opinion

Editorial

Letter to the Editor

Our persons of the year

Pandemic response should reflect our values

On the cover of the most recent edition of TIME magazine, the new United States President-elect and Vice President-elect, photo-shopped side by side, peer off the right side of the page like visionaries, imagining an unknown future for the country that they were recently elected to serve.

They were chosen as TIME’s “Person of the Year” for 2020, an annual distinction that began at the magazine in 1927. Recipients have ranged from the most deserving – Gandhi, Mandela and in 2019, Greta Thunberg – to the absolutely atrocious – Stalin, Khomeini and yes, even Hitler.

While we politely acknowledge the right of the magazine’s editors to make their selection, we take into question the parameters that influenced their decision. For the moment, the imprint that Joe Biden and Kamala Harris will make -- healing the nation of its racist wounds, ushering the country out of the COVID-19 nightmare and repairing a broken economy – exist in the form of an aspirational bucket list for the country, only.

It is this newspaper’s opinion that the editors of TIME have committed an egregious oversight, because to us, there has been only one clear recipient of their honors: The nurses, physicians, technicians, hospital support staff, first responders and emergency service rescue personnel, who this year have carved out new meanings for the words “Courage,” “Compassion” and “Care.”

Against the continued onslaught of COVID-19, dressed in the hospital-issued armor of N95 respirator masks, face shields, gowns and gloves, they have been their patients’ keepers. They rescue their patients and they bathe them. They draw blood samples, apply fresh dressings and administer intravenous medicines. They fill each others’ shifts.

Through a pandemic that has not permitted families to visit their loved ones in their hospital rooms, they extend reassurance and hope, and far too often, they have been the last face their patients ever see.

After shifts that sometimes seem endless, they weep in the solitary confinement of their car, ripped apart by the confluence of exhaustion, grief and the knowledge that they are caught up in a windstorm that offers no hints of retreat.

They arrive home and immediately, their sky blue and teal uniforms fall in clumps on the floor, soon to be tossed in the washing machine. After a shower in a designated bathroom, they rejoin a family they are a part of but no longer feel tethered to. The pandemic has wiped it away and its surge is unrelenting. They cannot articulate the pain of knowing that while they are still able to love, they are unable to touch.

Their sleep is chaotic, choppy and intermittent, and the faces of their patients rotate from one to the next, and every attempt at closing off the world is met with a question that will not leave them. “Will I be the next?”

Still, against every desire to disappear from the necessity of their obligations, they summon up an energy that seems to have been gifted by angels, and they perform the job that is required of them all over again -- through this horrific nightmare -- quietly and efficiently.

The broadcloth of heroism is a general one. It can fall on anybody, not just those with the good fortune to have their achievements magnified by the glimmer of high visibility, or a prominent national magazine. In this terrible year, it has chosen to fall on the men and women who find themselves on the front lines of a worldwide health crisis, here in Chester County and all over the world.

They have worn it admirably and selflessly, and their achievements in the face of insurmountable fear are worth far more than any accolades a magazine can possibly give them.

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

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Letter to the Editor: The last nine months have been difficult for all of us, and more difficult for some than others.

If, because of the COVID-19 pandemic, the government requires businesses to close or cut back,

causing loss of income for owners and employees, the government has the responsibility of making the owners and employees whole by paying them, during the shutdown, what they would normally earn.

There are companies and

individuals who are benefiting financially from the pandemic. They ought to make substantial financial contributions towards making whole those who are in financial distress.

We Americans are generous and value fairness.

We reach out to help oth-

ers in times of need. This is one of those times.

Our government’s actions–local, county, state and federal—should spring from those values.

Anita Bower Nottingham

Opinion

He who imposes burdens bears the burden of proof

By Gordon R. Eck, D.O., D.Min. Chairman, Republican Committee of Chester County Let us begin by wishing Gov. Wolf an uneventful and speedy recovery from his symptom-free positive COVID-19 test. Let us also note tragically, that as I write, over 300,000 Americans have lost their lives to COVID-19.

As most Pennsylvanians are now aware, the Dec. 10 order from Gov. Wolf and Secretary Levine closes indoor dining and prohibits indoor gatherings of more than 10 people. Likewise, outdoor gatherings of more than 50 people are prohibited while indoor businesses may only operate at up to 50 percent of capacity. Joining the list as totally shuttered are gyms, fitness facilities, casinos, museums, bowling alleys, and more. We are left with being able to stand in line for our bottle of Victory Gin at the 50 percent occupied and state-controlled Wine and Spirits store but barred from our elliptical for cardiovascular training in a gym no matter the occupancy.

As a physician, there have been times when I felt it necessary to take a scalpel and cut into someone. However, there exists a moral presumption against such action, even if I believe it is justified.

In such a situation the burden is not on the patient to convince me to refrain.

Rather, the burden is on me to convince the patient that I should proceed. This is true despite my credentials in the field.

Temporarily forbidding someone from working is not as serious as operating on them. But there remains a strong moral presumption against both. As to the former, individuals have a right and obligation, under natural law, to provide for themselves and their families. To interfere with this when it is not absolutely necessary is an offense against social and economic justice.

Many pay lip service to these things, leveraging them for their own personal or political agendas.

This is glaringly evident in these lockdowns. The liberal elites are protecting the low-risk college students and young professionals who can work from home, at the expense of the older, higher-risk, lower-wage workers in old-line businesses in what may be the worst assault on the working class in half a century. Indeed, the affluent have been the biggest backers of the lockdown. Meanwhile, families at lower income brackets have struggled to reconcile working with childcare and remote/ hybrid schooling models.

Those in authority must not treat permitting and forbidding people to work as equally legitimate courses of action. The latter requires evidence that there is no other way to

prevent greater devastation than temporarily suspending one’s right to work. What are the compelling arguments for taking away the freedoms of so many citizens and furthering social and economic injustice? Gov. Wolf and Secretary Levine state, “Two recent studies, one by Yale University and one by Stanford University, substantiate more than one of these mitigation efforts.”

They further wrote, “… research from Stanford University that found that restaurants accounted for a significant amount of new infections.” This study is

by Chang and colleagues from the Department of Computer Science at Stanford University. It is a computer model in which they simply reported the predictions of the model.

They did not report observations of the real world.

For most with any science sophistication, predictions based on computer modeling does not rise to the certainty that the governor’s “substantiate” or “account for” imply.

And for most of us who have watched either election cycles or pandemics, computer modeling and predictions have a way of missing the mark by a wide margin.

The other article is

by Spiegel and Tookes of the Yale School of Management, and is a multivariate linear regression analysis. It is a failed study that relies on “intuition”

to parse data, contradicts observational epidemiology, and evaluates mortality rates only as a consequence of policy decisions.

Interestingly, Gov. Wolf and Secretary Levine have ignored the findings that do not fit the Wolf/Levine dictate. As an example, the aforementioned article states, “At the same time, some policies may have been counterproductive: closing spas, closing risk level-1 businesses, reversing openings, and rules that limit gatherings to a maximum of up to 100 are all associated with higher future fatality growth in at least two of three specifications.” Tellingly, Spiegel and Tookes report reversing re-openings has a consistently adverse effect on mortality rates.

Reversing re-openings is in fact the action of the latest Wolf-Levine order.

It is time for our politicians who regularly lecture us about “following the science” to actually heed their own advice. It isn’t those who favor relaxing the lockdowns who have the burden of proof. The burden is on Gov. Wolf to justify his massive and possibly catastrophic interference with the lives and livelihoods of Pennsylvanians. His recent citings fail to meet the minimum standard. Short of meeting this burden, he must not prohibit human beings from exercising their fundamental right to support themselves and their families.

Float Your Boat

By Marie-Louise Meyers Christmas, Hanukkah, and Kwanza may seem lack-luster this year, devoid of glitter and the usual cheer, with dreams tarnished by COVID-19.

Shopping for gifts has become an unnecessary hazard to your health, what you do is online, but held to a minimum to stretch your budget without any Holliday bonuses in sight.

Losing its glitz and glamor the Rockefeller tree seems undernourished as though disease has tainted it.

Even Longwood Gardens, the foremost Display Garden in the World must observe caution in the Holiday rush with circuitous routes in and out of the Conservatory and in-between, round cir-

cles which insist six feet their life on the line. between.

Why not recapture the lost Art Form Still they have created a of writing the Annual kind of perfection Christmas Letter. which cannot be reached by this weary world Fill the air with a kind of with trees magnified in cheer which transfigures lights and show-stopping the ones, who may be lost ornaments in the numbing and the ones crafted by atmosphere and fear a kind Nature’s own sculptor. of mental break-down.

This seems such a superfi- Maybe in the End, it’s the cial glaze this season, simplest things when everyone was once that matter most as we greeting in overabundance. begin a New Year of 2021.

Christmas was once an accomplished art which lifts the spirit of the heart, and rewards both the Receiver and the Giver.

There are so many dead ends now, cut off from crowd-pleasing activities, ordering on line, avoiding the seasonal rush, for some might still bargain and bluff for the right stuff even though they’re putting

I am reminded of a ritual we performed as children on New Year’s Day after the let down of the Christmas holiday.

In a more subdued tone,

we took the half-shells of walnuts, and filling the tub, placed a lighted candle in each.

Still under the spell, we attached a Wish to the mast.

In the darkened room, we watched the candles flicker while waves splashed and the riptides flooded the plucky little boats with their brave candle masts.

Those who made it to the other side, the fervent ones which never brushed aside their Will Power, never to be impeded by Time or Tide, they were lifted by a giant Hand and made safe and secure on the Promised Land.

6A

CHESTER COUNTY PRESS

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2020

Chester County Press

In the Spotlight

Section

B

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2020

Kennett High School humanitarians give back to the community Every fall, Kennett High School’s Humanitarian Club holds a food drive to benefit the Kennett Area Community Service (KACS) food cupboard. This year, due to the economic impact of COVID-19, the need for donations was significantly greater. For that reason, club members chose to step up their efforts.

Lisa Te i x e i r a , Humanitarian Club advisor, said, “In recognition of all of the community support that the KHS Humanitarians and Mini-THON committee have received over the years, the club leadership decided to focus all of their activities during our first semester on helping the Kennett Square community.”

Motivated by the generous spirit of the local community, past Humanitarian Club co-presidents Emma Henderson, Gavin Maxwell, and Grace Pruitt, along with food drive chairs Carly Cicconi, Julia Dahms and McKenna Norton developed a strategy that involved several different fundraisers.

The creativity, dedication, and passion behind their ideas resulted in a contribution to KACS of $2,900, along with 1,000 pounds of food and 32 frozen turkeys.

“I am so proud of the students and their can-do attitudes, particularly given the many restraints in place because of COVID,” said Teixeira. “Without even being together in school, they managed to plan and implement a successful food drive. During these difficult days, the spirit, unity and service our students have demonstrated have provided inspiration, gratitude and hope to us all.”

The plan included both inperson and virtual options

for contributing, and many club members took on the task of overseeing specific activities: • Zara Quraishi and Gavin Maxwell organized the Rita’s fundraiser in October; • Gavin Maxwell and Emma Henderson created a Turkey Trot that encouraged runners to seek sponsors and complete a 5K on their own; • Nina GralewskiGoel and Sydney Lillard designed and sold “Let’s Can Hunger” t-shirts; • Together, the committee solicited corporate donations and set up a GoFundMe page; • Shawn Duffy, Humanitarian Club co-advisor, collected frozen turkeys in the parking lot before school; • Carly Cicconi and Gustavo Castaneda created commercials for KHS’s Youtube channel to encourage non-perishable food donations that could be dropped off at all KCSD buildings and a variety of other Kennett Square locations, including the library, Longwood Performing Arts, El Nayarit Mexican Grocery Store, Giordano’s, KMC Dance/Gymnastics, and Guadalajara Express; • Clara Morrison managed the club’s social media to get the word out about the variety of ways to get involved in the drive.

Senior co-president Gavin Maxwell said, “COVID has doubled the number of clients at the food cupboard. In light of economic adversities, the community’s willingness to rally in support of KACS has been more inspiring this year than ever. I’m so grateful for the opportunity I have to witness local generosity on a regular basis.”

“Last spring, when we started planning for this

The Humanitarian Club presented a check to Nancy Tapia of KACS.

Courtesy photos

Turkeys donated by Kennett High School Humanitarian Club in the KACS freezer.

Humanitarian Club members at the Rita’s fundraiser.

school year, there was no hesitation from anyone about focusing our efforts on the Kennett community for the first semester, which I think can be seen in the success of our fundraisers. It’s been really cool to see how much we as high schoolers are capable of achieving, especially in the middle of a pandemic,” added junior co-president Grace Pruitt.

Senior co-president Emma Henderson summarized the club’s sentiments

simply: “We are just so thankful for all the help from the community in supporting the food cupboard.”

The last online push to benefit KACS was a Giving Tuesday bingo game on Dec. 15.

The Humanitarian Club is grateful for the ongoing sponsorship of several local businesses, including Austin and Bednash Construction, Inc., Kennett Education Foundation, Sinton Air Conditioning and Heating,

The t-shirt art designed by Nina Gralewski-Goel.

Chatham Financial, High Tech Auto Body, The Perfect Impression, Kennett Copy and More, Cricket Wireless Kennett Square, and Baccellieri Family Dentistry.

The club also appreciated the donations from the Philadelphia 76ers, La Verona, Grain, Nailish Salon, Cafe de Thai, Lily Asian Cuisine, Kennett Inn, The Produce Place, Barnard’s Orchard, Taqueria Moroleon, Kennett Domino’s, Floga

Bistro, Sam’s Subs, Landhope Farms, Hearth Kitchen, Kennett Brewing Company, State Street Grill, Luigi’s Pizza, Bravo Pizza, Dunkin Donuts, and Wendy’s.

With a successful food drive behind them, the Humanitarian Club is already gearing up for their next big undertaking—the fifth annual MiniTHON, scheduled for May 21, 2021, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.

This year’s MiniTHON will be a drive-in event.

‘A Longwood Christmas’ voted 2020 Best Botanical Garden Holiday Lights

Photos by Kristin Hoffman

Feel like a kid again amidst all the holiday magic.

Just as the Gardens are a place of pleasure and respite, they are also a place of wellness and safety.

Guests are asked to follow the new visiting guidelines that have been created in accordance with state and local regulations that have been implemented to prevent the spread of the Coronavirus.

A Longwood Christmas—a holiday tradition for so many—has been voted the 2020 Best Botanical Garden Holiday Lights by 10Best/USA Today.

2B

CHESTER COUNTY PRESS

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2020

Chester County Press

Obituaries LUISE HAAG SCERNI

MARY R. BUFFINGTON

JUDGE DANIEL J. MAISANO

Luise Haag Scerni, of Kennett Square, passed away at her home on Dec. 11. She was 89.

Luise was the wife of the late Anthony Scerni, who predeceased her in April of 2016.

She was born in Bavaria, Germany, the daughter of the late Joseph Haag and the late Emma Hotz Haag.

For many years, Luise and her late husband, Anthony, were self-employed as real estate investors.

Luise has been a bright star to so many people who will miss her many stories and adventures. She spent a lot of her time traveling the world alongside her family and friends. Luise seemed to meet new friends while she was traveling or participating in clubs. One of her favorite things to do was work in her garden, and when visitors drove up to her house they were always amazed at her many flowers and plants.

She enjoyed visiting Longwood Gardens any opportunity she had, and truly admired the beauty of nature.

She looked forward to going to church every Sunday to surprise everyone with one of her many unique hats. To family and friends, she really was one of a kind, immigrating from Germany at the age of 19 all on her own. With her family still in Germany, she was able to create her own family out of the close friends she made. The powerhouse of a woman Luise was will never be forgotten. She radiated strength and was loved by many.

Luise is survived by her sister, Gerda Fischer; her sisterin-law, Alfreida Haag; and her nieces, Heike and Angelica, all of Bavaria, Germany; her nephew, Gary Scerni of West Chester, Pa.; as well as her friend and companion of nearly 30 years, Carolina Bedolla of Kennett Square.

Due to pandemic restrictions, services for Luise will be private.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Luise’s memory may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, Tenn. 38105.

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

Mary R. Buffington, a loving wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and friend, passed away on Dec. 7 at Somerford Place in Newark, Del., where they took wonderful care of her.

She was an 89-year-old resident of Chadds Ford.

She was the loving wife of the late William Buffington, whom she married on April 18, 1951.

Mary was born in Ridgway, Pa. She was the daughter of the late James D. Reilly, Jr. and the late Julia O’Connor Reilly. She graduated from West Chester High School and Goldey-Beacom College.

Mary was a faithful member of St. Patrick Catholic Church where she attended daily mass and often served as a eucharistic minister.

Mary was also a member of Kennett Grange for 66 years and held many offices at the local, county, state and national levels. Her last position held was as the national program director from 1987 to 1995. Mary was a wonderful public speaker and could make everyone feel welcome.

She was never at a loss for words.

Mary was a world traveler. She and Bill traveled all over the United States and to Pakistan, China, Russia and Italy.

Her favorite place to visit was Ireland, having traveled there many times.

Mary also loved her community and was very active with Kennett Area Community Service for many, many years.

Mary is survived by daughters Kathleen Shappell (Bob, who is deceased ) and Virginia Ramirez (Ken).

Mary also has five grandchildren, Michael Steele (Lisa), Amy Vandercapellen (Butch), Brian Shappell, Andrew Buffington (Kristen) and David Buffington. And she also has three great-grandchildren with another one on the way.

She was proceeded in death by daughters, Lois Steele (Jim), Susan Buffington and a son, Phillip Buffington (Laurie).

A funeral mass was held on Dec. 14 at St. Patrick Church in Kennett Square.

Interment was at St. Patrick Cemetery in Kennett Square.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may made in Mary’s memory to Kennett Area Community Service, 136 West Cedar St., Kennett Square, Pa. 19348 or Somerford Place, an Alzheimer’s and memory care facility, 4175 Ogletown – Stanton Road, Newark, Del. 19713.

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

District Judge Daniel J. Maisano transitioned peacefully on Dec. 10.

He passed while in the arms of his beloved wife. Ultimately, Dan was another victim of COVID-19.

Dan served Chester County as a Magisterial District Judge for more than two decades, serving until his passing as a Senior Judge. He served on the board of various charitable organization through the years and at the time of his passing was serving as the President of the Board of Governors of the University and Whist Club of Delaware. The Whist Club was a passion of Dan’s and he felt it was his second home.

Along with his wife of 30 years, Chester County treasurer Dr. Patricia Maisano, Dan is also survived by his four sons: Scott Maisano Corneliussen (and Jennifer) of Kennett Square, Dan Maisano II of Washington D.C., Peter Eversley (and Katrina) of Texas, and Adam Maisano of Philadelphia. Dan adored his two granddaughters, Remi Grace Corneliussen and Lily Grace Eversley.

He is also survived by his father Sam Castorani; his sisters, Petrece Podlesney (Jim), Stephanie Johnston (Dean), and Lalette Cotrelle, and JoAnn Miller; and his brothers, Sam Castorani (Sara), and Joseph Lesniak (Toni). Dan is also survived by his brother in life and in business, Paul Lesniak (Mariana); and more nieces and nephews, cousins, aunts and uncles too important to forget.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in Dan’s honor to The United Way of Southern Chester County ( www. unitedwayscc.org) 106 West State St., Kennett Square PA 19348. These funds will be specifically used to make Christmas bright for kids in need and for families devastated by COVID-19.

Arrangements are being handled by Kuzo Funeral Home, Inc.

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LOUISE ARLINE BAUMAN Louise Arline Bauman, of Oxford, passed away at Jennersville Hospital in West Grove on Dec. 16 after a brief illness. She was 96.

She was the daughter of the late Herman L. and Louise Stempel Bauman and the sister of Dorothy B. Simper, who passed away Sept. 20, 2014, and the beloved aunt of Leslie Simpers of Oxford.

Born in Pattenburg, N.J., she moved to Oxford as a child.

Upon graduation from Oxford High School in 1942, she moved to Washington, D.C. where she worked as an RN at DC General Hospital for 35 years. Upon retirement in 1979, she returned to Oxford where she continued her second career as an artist. Trained at the Corcoran School of Art, she was active in the Octoraro Art Association where she taught and mentored fellow artists. For many years, she donated her art work for the benefit of World Vision and other causes.

A voracious reader, she was a long-time supporter of the Oxford Library and had read the entire contents of the original library as a young adult. She gave generously of her time and talent, volunteering in hospice work and adult literacy.

A graveside service was held on Dec. 22 at the Oxford Cemetery.

Those wishing to remember her may donate to the Oxford Public Library, 48 S. Second St., Oxford, Pa. 19363.

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

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

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2020

CHESTER COUNTY PRESS

3B

Chester County Press

Obituaries EMIDIO PETER D’ANTONIO Emidio Peter D’Antonio passed away peacefully in his home on Dec. 11 at the age of 87.

Born on June 29, 1933 and raised in Kennett Square, he was the son of the late Florindo and Catherine D’Antonio. He attended St. Agnes High School and went on to successfully own and operate his own business, D’Antonio Mushrooms, for over 65 years. He also proudly served in the U.S. Army and was honorably discharged in 1963.

His character can best be summed up by something his wife, Lena, once remarked to her granddaughter. She said, “Everyone is always telling me how wonderful of a man your grandfather is – of course we already know that!�

He was an unequivocally good man: kind, patient and honest. He made friends everywhere he went. Whether you waited on him at the Concordville Inn, cut his hair at the barber shop, or owned the shop where he had his car serviced, you knew him personally and he knew you.

He enjoyed watching old westerns, Sunday pasta with the family, gardening, and the (not so) occasional trip to Delaware Park. But above all else, he loved his family and cherished his wife, Lena, with whom he shared 60 years of marriage and dinner out on the town every Saturday night.

Emidio is survived by the love of his life, Lena Oliveri D’Antonio, his three sons and their wives, Anthony and Melanie D’Antonio, Steve and Sheila D’Antonio and David and Kathleen D’Antonio; four grandchildren, Stephanie Boughner, Michelle Jurich, Michael D’Antonio and Olivia D’Antonio, seven great grandchildren, his sister Maryann Benko and many nieces and nephews.

Due to pandemic restrictions, Emidio’s mass of Christian burial will be private.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you do a simple act of kindness in his name. Tip a service worker a little more than normal, pay for a stranger’s coffee, hold a door open for someone or simply donate to Hospice - because that’s what he would have done.

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

THERESA M. MEUSSNER Theresa M. Meussner, 72, of Oxford, passed away on Dec. 13 at Ware Presbyterian Village in Oxford.

Born in Philadelphia, she was the daughter of the late Charles and Theresa Allen Fidler.

Theresa was a receiving supervisor at Levy United News.

She loved to spend time with her family, especially her grandchildren. She liked music, nature, watching and feeding the birds and other wildlife.

She is survived by her daughter, Michelle Alexander (Michael) of Oxford; two sons, William Meussner of Harrisburg and Anthony Meussner (Kelly) of Penndel; and five grandchildren, Nicholas Evans, Shelby Falk (Zach), Braise McGaughran (Sam), Christian Meussner and Chase Meussner.

She was preceded in death by a sister, Linda Schuch and brother, Charles Fidler.

A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Jan. 2, 2021 at Encounter Church, 300 Hideaway Dr., in Quarryville, Pa., where friends and family may visit from 10 to 11 a.m.

Interment will be private.

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

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

CARL AUGUST (C.A.) HUTTON On Dec. 13, Carl August (C.A.) Hutton, 70, son of the late Louise and Sidney Hutton, Jr., passed away from cancer near his Manhattan home.

After attending Avon Grove High School, he received a bachelor of arts degree in drama from Washington College.

On Broadway, he was stage door manager for “Ain’t Misbehavin’ � and “Runaways.� He co-founded Team NY Aquatics and became a team coach and an avid open-water swimmer.

C.A. is survived by his husband, Jeffrey Fennelly, sisters, Laura Zosia Hutton and Marina Conrad, niece Ali O’Brien, and grandnephew Hunter O’Brien. His late brother was Sidney Hutton III. Following cremation, interment will be in Chestertown, Md. A memorial service will be held on a date to be announced.

VERA M. COLE Vera M. Cole, age 101, of Oxford, died on Dec. 16 at The Ware Presbyterian Village. She was preceded in death by her parents, Ray P. and Mabel Roth Reese, her husband of 52 years Ray D. Cole, and her son Jay Dennis Cole.

As a homemaker, Vera was able to be a Cub Scout leader, a piano teacher for over 50 years, a past president of the Federated Women’s Club of Chester County, and an active participant and organist at the Avondale Methodist Church for over 55 years.

Vera and her husband Ray owned and operated The Cole Bin antique business that specialized in lamps and custom-made lamp shades.

Vera loved music, was always involved in a craft project, loved baking cookies particularly with her granddaughters, enjoyed decorating for holidays, and spent many days shopping in her home county of Lancaster County.

The family would like to thank the staff and nurses at Ware Presbyterian Village and Willow Tree Hospice for their care of and concern for Vera.

Vera is survived by her daughter-in-law Norma J. Cole, two granddaughters, Lisa (Christopher) Weaver and Cheryl (Frederick) Nelson, and four great-grandchildren, Alec and Grace Weaver and Benjamin and Logan Nelson.

There will be a private graveside service at The Conestoga Memorial Park in Lancaster, Pa. on Dec. 23.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests a contribution to any of the following organizations: Ware Presbyterian Employee Appreciation Fund, 7 E. Locust St, Oxford, PA 19363 or Willow Tree Hospice, 616 E. Cypress St., Kennett Square, Pa. 19348 or to the Lymphoma and Leukemia Society, 100 N. 20th Street, Suite 405, Philadelphia, Pa. 19103.

To view her online tribute, please visit www. kuzoabdfoulkfhfh.com.

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

Obituary submissions The Chester County Press publishes obituaries free of charge for funeral homes with active advertising accounts only. Others with a connection to southern Chester County are charged a modest fee. Obituaries appear on the Wednesday after they are received with a Monday 5pm deadline. They are also posted on www. chestercounty.com. Photos should be sent as .jpeg attachments to the obituary text. To submit an obituary to the Chester County Press or for a rate quote, email the information to editor@chestercounty.com.

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GEORGE BURNETT LEWIS George Burnett Lewis died peacefully at Crosslands Retirement Community in Kennett Square on Dec. 9. He was 97.

George was born in Flushing, N.Y. on Feb. 19, 1923 to Dorothy Rickett and Morel Peck Lewis. His education included the Buckley School, St. Andrews School, and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

In 1947, George married Eleanor Letts from Providence and Narragansett, Rhode Island and raised three children, George Burnett Lewis, Jr, Madeline Lewis, and Houghton Lewis. Married for 73 years, George and “Ellie� often reflected that their happiest years were spent living on their farm in Kennett Square, enjoying their children and menagerie of horses, dogs, cats, chickens, and goats.

While attending UNC, George participated in the Naval R.O.T.C. In 1944, he was commissioned as an Ensign in the U.S. Navy and released as a Lieutenant, J.G. in 1946.

His two-year active duty included the provisioning and commissioning of the minesweeper AM 239 in the invasion of Okinawa; and at the end of the war, the securing of Northern Honshu as part of the Northern Pacific Fleet.

After the war, he became the Captain of the AM 342 which swept mines to permit U.S., Japanese, and many others to work more safely. His final job was to take several minesweepers to the Philippines to be upgraded and turned over to the Chinese. He retired from the Navy in 1946, and then completed his degree at the University of North Carolina Business School.

George worked for the DuPont Company for 39 years in the textile fibers department across a number of programs and products. He managed advertising and promotion, export marketing, and product management for Nomex, Typar, and Tyvek. For three years after DuPont, George managed Burnett Enterprises selling off-grade product.

Throughout his life, George spent a significant amount of time contributing in the community. Working at three different Episcopal Parishes over 60 years, he participated in vestry duties, search committees, outreach efforts, financial matters, and 16 years of acolyte (“the God squad�) training. He also was an active member with St. Andrews School Alumnae; Special Gifts Chairman at the Red Cross; and helped start Big Brothers in Wilmington, Del. George was particularly grateful for his membership, active service, and involvement with Alcoholics Anonymous over many years in both Wilmington and Kennett Square.

George repeatedly expressed appreciation for a rich, long, and wonderful life with family and friends. He will be deeply missed and forever cherished for his joy of living, robust sense of humor, expansive warmth, and an all-inclusive, kind heart.

George is survived by his wife, three children, and six grandchildren.

A memorial service will be announced in the future.

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

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

4B

CHESTER COUNTY PRESS

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2020

Chester County Press

Local News Inaugural Penn Vet New Bolton Center, MARS Equestrian research program to accelerate transformative advancements in equine musculoskeletal health Together with MARS Equestrian, the University of Pennsylvania’s School of Veterinary Medicine (Penn Vet) has launched an innovative educational research program dedicated to advancing critical frontiers in equine health.

At its core, the MARS Equestrian Early Career Investigator program is providing aspiring veterinary researchers with an exceptional, multidimensional mentorship experience guided by a team of leading Penn Vet researchers and animal health experts from MARS Equestrian and the WALTHAM Equine Studies Group.

Sarah Ciamillo, DVM, of Boonton Township, N.J., has been selected as the first Early Career Investigator for the newly minted program.

“As a long-time equestrian, equine advocate, and new equine veterinarian, there is nothing more important to me than the future health and welfare of the horse,”

said Ciamillo.

In her role, Ciamillo is refining a set of comprehensive skills necessary for a beginning career in veterinary medicine research, from data collection and analysis to stewardship and public service. The most compelling element of the Early Career Investigator program, however, is the immersive opportunity to assist in developing novel and transformative clinical techniques.

Specifically, Ciamillo is assisting a team of Penn Vet New Bolton Center researchers in a dynamic, first-of-its-kind study assessing equine bone characteristics and limb biomechanics using New Bolton Center’s advanced diagnostic imaging technologies – including its revolutionary standing robotic computed tomography (CT) system.

Ultimately, the researchers hope to use the findings to understand bone and

joint injury in horses and develop preventative tools that would improve the health and well-being of equines across all discipline spectrums.

Penn Vet’s Dr. Kyla Ortved, assistant professor of large animal surgery at New Bolton Center, is serving as the primary mentor and lead researcher for this Early Career Investigator project.

A clinical expert in equine orthopedic surgery and sports medicine, Ortved’s research program seeks to better understand attributes of the equine joint in order to improve clinical outcomes associated with osteoarthritis following injury in horses.

“Mentorship is a cardinal element of individual career success, particularly in the veterinary medicine field,” said Ortved. “The MARS Equestrian Early Career Investigator program’s unique platform will provide junior researchers with an unparalleled learning experience while simultaneously

Classifieds HELP WANTED Phlebotomists Brandywine Hospital Tower Health is seeking Full- and Part-Time Phlebotomists to join our Pathology department. Phlebotomists obtain specimens for patients including blood cultures, venipuncture, capillary samples, and more.

A High School Diploma or GED is required as is successful completion of basic phlebotomy training.

fostering fundamental discoveries in vital areas of research that will unequivocally improve the lives of our equine partners.”

Ciamillo also has the opportunity to work alongside other leading Penn Vet faculty including Dr. Dean Richardson, chief of large animal surgery at New Bolton Center; Dr. Darko Stefanovski, associate professor of biostatistics; and Dr. Andrew van Eps, associate professor of equine musculoskeletal research.

“The MARS Equestrian Early Career Investigator program is more than just an immersive experience into a practical and applicable learning environment,” said Dr. Bridgett McIntosh, Director of MARS Equestrian. “By coupling New Bolton Center’s prowess as an innovator in equine health with MARS Equestrian’s commitment to enriching lives through equestrian sport, our hope is to make a lasting impact on

equine health through future generations of veterinarians, ultimately creating a better world for our horses.”

Dr. Pat Harris, head of the equine studies group at the WALTHAM Petcare Science Institute and Director of Science for MARS Horsecare, said, "I am incredibly excited to be part of this important initiative championing the development of new researchers whose work will be vital in helping to advance frontiers in equine health and science.”

“Through this extraordinary opportunity to work alongside trailblazers in various facets of the animal health field, we hope to inspire more young people interested in pursuing a career in veterinary medicine and research at Penn Vet’s New Bolton Center, these budding veterinarians will be at the nexus of creating the clinical solutions of tomorrow, for some of the most complex and challenging conditions facing

our equine partners,” said Christa Schmidt, who presently serves on Penn Vet’s Board of Overseers.

“The MARS Equestrian Early Career Investigator Program is providing crucial training in research areas that are fundamental to advancing the field of equine veterinary medicine,” added Ciamillo. “I am incredibly grateful to my mentors at New Bolton Center and to MARS for this unique opportunity to play an integral role in this field of research, develop critical thinking and benchtop skills, and as a result, contribute to my ultimate career goal – to make a lasting difference for horses and humans alike.”

For more information about MARS Equestrian’s commitment to improving the lives of horses, pets, and the people who love them, please visit www.marsequestrian.com.

For more information about Penn Vet, please visit www.vet.upenn.edu.

ESTATE NOTICE

above Estate have been granted to the undersigned, who request all persons having claims or demands against the estate of the decedent to make known the same and all persons indebted to the decedent to make payment without delay to: Steven A. Segal, Esq., Segal & Company, LLC, 261 Old York Road, Suite 823A, Jenkintown, PA 19046, Executor. Segal & Company, LLC, 261 Old York Road, Suite 823A, Jenkintown, PA 19046 12p-23-3t

Legals ESTATE NOTICE

Estate of Gary B. Lillmars, Lillmars, Gary B. late of Pottstown, PA., LETTERS of ADMINISTRATION for the above Estate have been granted to the undersigned, who request all persons having claims or demands against the estate of the decedent to make known the same and all persons indebted to the decedent to make payment without delay to: Margaret Lillmars, 724 Ridge

Rd., Pottstown, PA 19465, Administratrix. Lawrence M. Frangiosa, Esq., 675 North Lewis Road, Limerick, PA 19468 12p-16-3t

ESTATE NOTICE

ESTATE OF Emily L. MAIER, DECEASED. Late of East Marlborough Township, Chester County, PA, LETTERS of ADMINISTRATION on the above Estate have been granted to the undersigned, who request all persons

having claims or demands against the estate of the decedent to make known the same and all persons indebted to the decedent to make payment without delay to Michael A. Maier, ADMINISTRATOR, 105 Hadley’s Mill Run, Kennett Square, PA 19348. Elle Van Dahlgren, Esq., Elle Van Dahlgren Law, LLC, 20 Montchanin Rd., Ste. 1000, Greenville, DE 19807.

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Estate of Connie Dolan, Late of West Grove, Penn Township, Chester County, PA, LETTERS TESTAMENTARY on the above Estate have been granted to the undersigned, who request all persons having claims or demands against the estate of the decedent to make known the same and all persons indebted to the decedent to make payment without delay to Debora Dolan-Blubaugh , Executor, 1507 Old Orchard Rd, Media, Pa 19063 12p-16-3t

FICTITIOUS NAME REGISTRATION

An application for registration of the fictitious name Pottstown Dance Theatre, 72 West Main St., POTTSTOWN, PA 19465 has been filed in the Department of State at Harrisburg, PA, File Date 06/18/2020 pursuant to the Fictitious Names Act, Act 1982-295. The name and address of the person who is a party to the registration is Michelle Wurtz, 901 Old Lancaster Rd., Bryn Mawr, PA 19010.

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To learn more or apply, visit: careers.towerhealth.org and search: Phlebotomists

ESTATE NOTICE

Estate of Steven E. Rosner, Rosner, Steven E. late of Chesterbrook, PA. LETTERS TESTAMENTARY on the

FICTITIOUS NAME REGISTRATION

An application for registration of the fictitious name OA Pressure Washing, 9 Richfield Rd, West Chester, PA 19380 has been filed in the Department of State at Harrisburg, PA, File Date 10/14/2020 pursuant to the Fictitious Names Act, Act 1982-295. The name and address of the person who is a party to the registration is AVISAID OLMEDO-VICTORIA, 9 Richfield Rd, West Chester, PA 19380.

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WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2020

CHESTER COUNTY PRESS

5B

Chester County Press

Local News Philanthropist MacKenzie Scott donates $20 million to Lincoln University Lincoln University, the nation’s first degreegranting Historically Black College and University, announced that it has received a generous $20 million gift from author and philanthropist MacKenzie Scott.

Scott’s gift is the largest from a single donor in Lincoln’s 167-year history. “I would like to express my sincere gratitude to Ms. MacKenzie Scott for her investment in the Lincoln University legacy, which has been transforming the lives of African Americans since 1854, more than 10 years before the emancipation of the race,� said university President Brenda A. Allen. “This transformational gift will allow us to sustain that legacy, reimagine the future of our university, and deepen our investments in students, who will, in turn, make

positive impacts in their communities and society at large.�

Lincoln University will use the gift to support its comprehensive strategic plan centered around student success. Specifically, Scott’s gift will support new investments in teaching, research, and faculty development that will ensure the university can continue providing a world-class liberal arts education to current and prospective students.

It will also strengthen the university’s commitment to experiential learning by giving every student the opportunity to participate in at least one high-impact co-curricular activity, such as an internship, study abroad program, or undergraduate research. These opportunities enhance the depth of learning students experience in the classroom by allowing them to apply

Roberts honored

by Avon Grove Lions

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The Avon Grove Lions are honoring Mary Roberts as their Senior Student of the Month for November. She is a senior at the Avon Grove High School. Mary is being recognized for her outstanding community service and academic excellence.

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that knowledge in realworld, practical settings, and often lead to post-graduate success.

Finally, when higher education is becoming increasingly inaccessible, Scott’s generosity will strengthen the university’s ability to educate and empower students from vulnerable populations. The gift will bolster the Brenda A. Allen Need-Based Scholarship Fund, which exists to close the financial gap that more than 65 percent of Lincoln University students face in covering their annual tuition. With Scott’s significant contribution, the Fund will help more students matriculate uninterrupted despite financial hardships.

Dwight S. Taylor, chairman of the Lincoln University Foundation of Pennsylvania, is hopeful that Scott’s gift will inspire

others to make investments in the next generation of leaders. “This gift illustrates the worthiness of Lincoln University,� Taylor said. “I hope that other philanthropists will join Ms. Scott’s commitment to investing in the university’s mission and ability to educate students from vulnerable populations to achieve a lifetime of success.�

Scott’s gift acknowledges the continuing relevance of the Lincoln University mission and signals support for its leadership and strategic direction. The unrestricted nature of the gift has allowed the university to design the blueprint for this investment. “We are very grateful to be a recipient of a gift of this magnitude,� said Allen. “Ms. Scott’s transformative investment allows the University to remain

Courtesy photo

Lincoln University president Brenda A. Allen thanked philanthropist MacKenzie Scott for the donation of $20 million to the university. Scott’s gift is the largest from a single donor in Lincoln’s 167-year history.

committed to sustaining ing recognition as a model Lincoln’s legacy as a liberal for academic excellence.� arts institution and achiev-

Members of the Libertarian Party of Chester County volunteer to clean up camp Members of the Libertarian Party of Chester County (LPCC) recently volunteered to straighten up the grounds at Bournelyf Special Camp in West Chester, Pa. The volunteers arrived to clean up the grounds of the camp before winter sets in. The Chester County Libertarians support volunteer initiatives to help organizations in the community, and Bournelyf is a favorite of members. “Bournelyf is a unique operation,� said Stephen Wahrhaftig, chair of the LPCC. “This camp provides services to special needs kids in a beautiful, wooded setting, offering a wide range of activities.

Even with the problems of the current pandemic, Bournelyf managed to host activities virtually, and kept their campers engaged. As their director Richard Curth explained to the LPCC, this camp is an important part of the lives of campers with special needs and allows campers to remain involved with activities even into adulthood.�

Courtesy photo

Members of the Libertarian Party of Chester County recently volunteered to straighten up the grounds at Bournelyf Special Camp in West Chester.

This month, the LPCC concentrated on the beautiful Challenge Course used by the campers, removing branches that had been blown over the grounds, and raking the activity area to soften the grounds for safe use. “This is a group effort,�

Wahrhaftig said. “Our members bring their kids along. This helps them understand the value of having an important member of the community like Bournelyf Special Camp, and to see what needs to be done to keep an operation like this going.�

The LPCC is made up of Libertarians throughout Chester County, with meetings based in West Chester. Information about the LPCC is available at lpchesco.com. People may learn more about Bournelyf Special Camp at https:// www.bscwc.org.

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