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WINTER 2021/22 THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE DELAWARE COUNTY BAR ASSOCIATION
Keep Calm and Carry On!
An Issue calling for persistence in the face of challenge
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T H E O FFI C I A L P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E D E L AWA R E CO U N T Y B A R A S S O C I AT I O N
The Official Publication of the Berks County Bar Association
Delaware County Bar Association 2022 Officers PRESIDENT Carrie A. Woody PRESIDENT ELECT Patrick T. Daley VICE PRESIDENT Rachael L. Kemmey TREASURER Michael J. Davey RECORDING SECRETARY Mary J. Walk CORRESPONDING SECRETARY Matthew J. Bilker PAST PRESIDENTS Karen E. Friel Robert F. Kelly, Jr. PRESIDENT, YOUNG LAWYERS SECTION Ashleigh L. Latonick DIRECTORS Jennifer M. DiPillo Patricia H. Donnelly Hon. Frank T. Hazel Patrick T. Henigan Maureen Henry Michael H. Hill Gregory Hurchalla Steven R. Koense John P. McBlain Theresa Flanagan Murtagh Lorraine M. Ramunno Daniel J. Siegel William L. Baldwin, Esquire, Executive Director Tracy E. Price, Director of Marketing & Executive Editor, Delco re:View Delaware County Bar Association 335 West Front Street, Media, PA 19063 Ph: (610) 566-6625 • Fax: (610) 566-7952 www.delcobar.org The opinions expressed in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific legal or other advice or recommendations for any individuals. The placement of paid advertising does not imply endorsement by the Delaware County Bar Association. All rights reserved. No portion of this publication may be reproduced electronically or in print without the express written permission of the publisher or editor.
Inside
Content
WINTER 2021/22
4 Four Trout Now Swim at 3rd & Jackson Streets in Media!
16 Fourth Annual Flying of Veteran Casket Flags Ceremony, October 2021
5 Number 86 in 2021!
18 Service, Sacrifice & Appreciation!
6 Nominating Committee Report – For The Year 2022
20 Where Dedication to the Practice of Family Law is Tradition!
7 The “new” www.delcobar.org!
22 Live & In-Person at the 48th Bench Bar Conference!
8 DCBA 150th Anniversary 9 Successfully Retained in 2021! The Court of Common Pleas of Delaware County! 10 Selfless Giving is the Art of Living 10 Who Ya Gonna Call? 11 Greatness... We have you covered! 12 Home is a Safe Haven 12 20th Annual Delco Run for Heroes 13 “Nuts and Bolts: The Basics of Custody Litigation”
24 LASP... Coordinating Efforts and Meeting Community Needs in the Face of Disaster 26 Before Watergate, there was Media 27 Phoenix Training - Addiction and Connection to Treatment 28 A New Chapter... May you be proud of the work you have done, the person you are, and the difference you have made 29 Cheers to a Happy & Healthy New Year! 30 “New Custodians of the Dream!”
13 Like A Fine Wine… The Women in the Law Section
31 Dr. Sandra Weiss: 45 Years in the Classroom
14 “Advancing the Rule of Law, Now!” Law Day 2021
33 The Inn is Golden
32 “We’ll take ‘Best Town’ for $500, Bill!”
34 SALUTE to Delco Hometown Heroes & Pioneers, both on the field & off!
COVER:
Keep Calm and Carry On! Four Trout now swim at 3rd and Jackson Streets in Media. The behavior pattern of the trout represents an important lesson for those trying to succeed in business: be diligent, be patient, but most of all, be opportunistic!
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Four Trout Now Swim at 3rd & Jackson Streets in Media!
“I am Grateful for all of the local volunteers and organizations for helping create ‘Trout’, with special thanks to the Media Borough and the Media Arts Council. A traffic calming street mural, a first for myself, and my town!”
Media Arts Council collaborated with Media Borough to choose a beautiful design entitled “Trout” which features four trout native to Delaware County; specifically, the Golden, Brown, Brook and Rainbow.
Painter and naturalist Carrie Barcomb who believes Art & Nature go hand in hand … both can soothe and inspire!
“Four Trout at 3rd and Jackson” by Brian Sammond, Media Arts Council #BriansSmilingPoetry
Borough Council hired engineering firm Traffic Planning and Design in Fall of 2019, to work with borough staff, officials and residences to create a plan to increase safety for pedestrians, bicyclists and motorists.
The Golden Trout’s bold haughtiness shines forth from glowing gilded scales, out-shining, to his mind, the duller Brown.
Specific project goals included:
• Create safe and attractive streets for pedestrians, bicyclists and motorists;
• Reduce the negative effects of motor vehicles on the environment;
• Mitigate the negative impacts of heavy traffic on pedestrians;
• Improve the perception of safety on Media streets; • Enhance the livability of Media Borough. The final plan was completed in December 2020. www.mediaborough.com/planning/traffic-calming-plan One of the 2020 Traffic Calming Study’s recommendations had been to install vivid “Street Murals” in intersections where cars do not stop or speed through. The first Street Mural was painted as a community-participation project at the intersection of Third and Jackson Streets in September 2021.
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But Brown Trout’s not perturbed by this – he’s proud to swim the creeks and streams, too busy swishing ’round to have a frown. The Brook Trout makes a common sight in all the brooks and streams around, and loves to swim her way from pond to creek. The Rainbow Trout, so fanciful, just laughs beneath the flowing stream, when after rain she leaps a colored streak – her scales of rainbow colors glow, reflecting rainbows in the sky. What makes the trout a great omen for success in business is its standing for patience. The trout symbolizes patience because of its well-known hunting method. Most trout are riverine fishes, and so they must deal with the constant flow of the river – as does their prey. However, unlike the smaller fish and invertebrates they prey on, the trout waits patiently in the pockets of low flow along the banks. There, the fish waits for its prey to go by and pounces. The behavior pattern of the trout represents an important lesson for those trying to succeed in business: be diligent, be patient, but most of all, be opportunistic! •
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Number 86 in 2021! Congratulations to Karen E. Friel, Esquire, on her successful year as President! November 2021. The Delaware County Bar Association hosted its Annual General Membership Meeting at the Delaware County Bar Association Building and via Zoom for those members unable to attend in person. Highlights of the meeting included the election of Officers and Directors for 2022 and oral reports from the 150th Anniversary Committee and the Bench Bar Conference Committee about their respective activities. Per tradition, President Karen E. Friel gave a presentation on the accomplishments of the DCBA during the preceding year and was happy to report the following:
• The DCBA has returned to hosting live events and has
kept its offices open during the pandemic to better serve the membership and the general public. It was also exciting that the Association was able to host its Bench Bar Conference (one of its signature events) in September at Skytop Lodge.
• The Association launched a new website and database
which was designed to be more efficient and user-friendly.
• The Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission
decided that it could no longer maintain the historic 1724 Courthouse in Chester and was looking for an organization or group to manage the property. Delaware County Council has entered into a lease for the property, and the Delaware County Historical Society will be administering the site. The 1724 Courthouse Committee of the DCBA is committed to working with the Historical Commission on maintaining this landmark and hosting events there. This site is a critical part of both Delaware County and United States history, and the DCBA was pleased to be involved with helping to save the building.
• President Friel thanked President Judge Kevin F. Kelly
and the Board of Judges for their amazing work during the COVID crisis. Because of their dedication, Court services continued throughout the pandemic. She was pleased to announce that jury trials have also resumed.
• The DCBA Sections and Committees managed to meet
virtually throughout the pandemic and to provide services to Association members and the public. In particular, the Community Outreach Committee conducted a number of V-Events which were designed to provide important legal information to the public. She commended the Sections and Committees for their hard work and dedication to the DCBA.
• In keeping with the mission, the Veterans and Military
Service Committee of the Delaware County Bar Association held its Annual Flying of Veteran Casket Flags. In its fourth year, the ceremony is a unique and powerful way to memorialize and celebrate the life and legacy of legendary members from the legal community who shaped Delaware County following their heroic efforts in their military service to the United States of America.
• President Friel thanked the Board and Staff of the DCBA
for their work to maintain services during COVID and for their commitment to the mission of the Bar Association. She also extended her congratulations to incoming President Carrie A. Woody and wished her much success in 2022.
Following the Membership Meeting, there was a new member Welcoming Ceremony and Reception at the Delaware County Bar Association. • The Delaware County Bar Association will hold its Annual President’s Dinner honoring our outgoing President, Karen E. Friel, Esquire, and welcoming our incoming President, Carrie A. Woody, Esquire, on Friday evening, January 14, 2022, at Aronimink Golf Club, 3600 St. David’s Road, Newtown Square, Pennsylvania. Cocktails will be served at 6:30 p.m. followed by dinner at 7:30 p.m. This affair is for members of our Association and special invited guests.
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NOMINATING COMMITTEE REPORT – FOR THE YEAR 2022
T
he Nominating Committee of the Delaware County Bar Association met on Monday, September 13, 2021, pursuant to the Bylaws, Article VIII, Section 1.
Directors with one year remaining: Honorable Frank T. Hazel Theresa Flanagan Murtagh, Esquire
Carrie A. Woody, Esquire, as President-Elect, will automatically become President of the Delaware County Bar Association in 2022 pursuant to Article II, Section 3 of the Bylaws. The Committee makes the following nominations for officers and directors of the Association for the year 2022 and will present these nominations to the members at the Annual Meeting of the General Membership to be held on Wednesday, November 17, 2021. Pursuant to Article VIII, Section 1 (A) “Additional nominations may be made by Petition signed by at least ten (10) members who are entitled to vote, at least one of whom shall be the nominee. Such nominating petitions must be filed with the Secretary no later than November 1, 2021.” President Elect
Patrick T. Daley., Esquire
Vice President
Rachael L. Kemmey, Esquire
Treasurer
Michael J. Davey, Esquire
Recording Secretary
Mary J. Walk, Esquire
Corresponding Secretary Matthew J. Bilker, Esquire
Patrick T. Henigan, Esquire Lorraine M. Ramunno, Esquire John P. McBlain, Esquire Daniel J. Siegel, Esquire
Past Presidents: Karen E. Friel, Esquire (As of 1/1/2022) Robert F. Kelly, Jr., Esquire (As of 1/1/2021) President of the Young Lawyers’ Section will be determined at the YLS November Election Respectfully submitted, Chair: Robert F. Kelly, Jr., Esquire
Members: Amber L. Falkenbach, Esquire (Member-At-Large)
Directors for a period of two years:
Karen E. Friel, Esquire
Lindsey J. Conan, Esquire
Jennifer L. Galante, Esquire (YLS President)
M. Elizabeth Naughton-Beck, Esquire
Craig B. Huffman, Esquire
Christina V. Hayes, Esquire
Vincent B. Mancini, Esquire
Brian S. Quinn, Esquire
Carrie A. Woody, Esquire •
Joseph T. Mattson, Esquire Francis A. Urso, Esquire
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About the DCBA …
“You’ve got the look I want to know better” … The ‘new’ www.delcobar.com!” The Delaware County Bar Association enhances member professional standards of excellence, collaboration among the Bench and Bar, the successful practice of law, and the personal well-being of our members. Dear Members, As you know, the Delaware County Bar Association has with great enthusiasm partnered with MemberCentral to introduce its new website and database. With the enhanced features of the website, we hope that you have found it very userfriendly and easier for you to register for events, pay your dues, or access your online accounts. The link to our website remains as www.delcobar.org. If you previously used SeminarWeb for online CLEs, your username and password remains the same. If you need to set your username and password to access your “My DCBA Page,” please go to “My DCBA Page” where you are able to edit your information, upload a photo or check your online account. Please feel free to contact Bill Baldwin (bill@ delcobar.com) or Nancy Ravert Ward (nancy@delcobar.com) with any questions. As always, thank you for your membership in the DCBA, and please know that we continue to strive to find ways to add value to your membership. •
Accelerate Your Business Owner-Occupied Commercial Mor tgages No prepayment penalt y Flexible payment terms Get star ted by contacting Chief Relationship Of f icer Marc Ernest
484-259-1852
marce@fmfcu.org
Locally Headquar tered Winter 2021/22
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I
n anticipation of the 150th Anniversary of the Delaware County Bar Association, in 2022, DCBA President Karen Friel had announced early in 2021, the formation of a special committee to properly commemorate the sesquicentennial. This committee, appropriately termed the DCBA 150th Anniversary Committee, is responsible for planning, organizing, hosting and presenting various cultural, civil and Bar Association programs, events, projects and activities. The Chairpersons for the Committee are Carrie A. Woody, Esquire, DCBA President, 2022; and Robert F. Kelly, Jr., Esquire, DCBA Past President, 2020. Throughout the year 2022, this Committee will be publishing and presenting historical perspectives and insights on the Bench and Bar, as well as working closely with community leaders and outside organizations, in furtherance of these goals. For the purposes of efficiency and organization, the 150th Anniversary Committee will be working in concert with existing sections and committees. This will be especially true of those sections and committees whose function and purpose relates directly to the planned events and projects. The Guy G. deFuria American Inn of Court and the Women in Law Sections, as well as the Historical, Community Outreach, Bench Bar, 1724 Courthouse, Law Day, the Memorial Resolution Committees, and the other committees, will work closely with the 150th Anniversary Committee, to help develop relevant presentations, publications and projects. At the November 2021 Annual General Membership Meeting, Carrie A. Woody, Esquire, President Elect, enthusiastically provided a summary plan of events/programs to celebrate this important milestone for the Association. Among the activities planned are:
• January: The DCBA will kick off its 150th year with
its Annual President’s Dinner at Aronimink Golf Club. There will also be a seminar at the Bar Building during the month highlighting the history of the Association.
• February, officially designated as Black History Month: The DCBA is excited to be partnering with Delaware
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County Community College to display the historical “Dockets of Enslaved Pennsylvanians.” There will be a special event on February 17th to kick off the exhibition of these documents.
• March, officially designated as Women’s History Month:
The Women in the Law Section will be planning a special CLE program on a topic related to the 150th Anniversary.
• April: The Law Day Committee will work to incorporate aspects of the Anniversary with the Bar’s annual Law Day events. The 2022 Law Day Theme “Toward a More Perfect Union: The Constitution in Times of Change.”
• May: The Inn of Court will host a program in May to celebrate the Bar’s anniversary.
• June: At the annual Bench Bar Conference in Annapolis,
MD, the focus of the event will be “150 years of history.”
• September-October: The DCBA is planning a special 150th Anniversary reception to be held either in September or October.
• October, in anticipation of the month of November,
officially designated as National Veterans and Military Families Month: The Veterans and Military Service Committee of the Delaware County Bar Association will hold its 5th Annual Flying of Veteran Casket Flags at the Delaware County Veterans Memorial in Newtown Square. Honored will be the lives and legacy of legendary members of the legal community who shaped Delaware County following their heroic efforts in their military service to the United States of America, during wars over the past century and a half.
• December: The DCBA will celebrate its 150th year in review.
Special recognition needs to go to the 150th Anniversary Committee for all of its work to make 2022 a memorable year at the DCBA! •
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Successfully Retained in 2021! The Court of Common Pleas of Delaware County!
Retention Election
Qualifications
All judges except those of the magisterial districts face retention elections following their initial term. After a judge has won an initial election, subsequent terms are attained through retention elections. In retention elections, judges do not compete against another candidate, but voters are given a “yes” or “no” choice whether to keep the justice in office for another term. If the candidate receives more yes votes than no votes, he or she is successfully retained. If not, the candidate is not retained, and there will be a vacancy in that court upon the expiration of that term. This applies to all judges except magisterial district judges, who are always elected in partisan elections.
To serve on an appellate or general jurisdiction court, a judge must: have state residence for at least one year; be a district resident for at least one year (for Common Pleas judges); be a member of the state bar; and be under the age of 75. While retirement at 75 is mandatory, judges may apply for senior judge status. Senior judges may serve as such until the last day of the calendar year in which they turn 78.
Selection Method Judges of the Court of Common Pleas are elected to 10-year terms in elections. Candidates may cross-file with both political parties for the partisan primaries, which are followed by general elections where the primary winners from each party compete. Judges must run in yes-no retention elections if they wish to continue serving after their first term. A separate part of the ballot is designated for these elections, and judges’ names appear without respect to party affiliation.
Successfully Retained in 2021 for the Court of Common Pleas of Delaware County! Hon. Spiros E. Angelos Hon. John P. Capuzzi, Sr. Hon. Kathrynann W. Durham Hon. G. Michael Green Hon. Kevin F. Kelly Joseph T. Mattson, Esquire, and Lyn B. Schoenfeld, Esquire Co-Chairs of the Judicial Retention Committee •
The president judge of each Pennsylvania Court of Common Pleas is chosen by either peer vote or seniority, depending on the size of the court. Statewide, all courts composed of more than seven individuals must select their chief judge by peer vote. Those with seven or fewer members select their chief by seniority.
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Selfless Giving is the Art of Living D
elaware County has a myriad of opportunities to participate in Giving Tuesday this year, as nonprofits continue to step forward with their needs which were even greater in 2021, due to the pandemic. Giving Tuesday, traditionally the Tuesday following Thanksgiving, began in 2012 as a day to encourage people to do good, which has largely been seen as a way to give back to non-profits who serve the community year-round. Among the do-gooders who give not only on Tuesdays but throughout the year, Eddystone defense attorney Andrew Edelberg delivered stuffed animals to the Delaware County Criminal Investigation Division and the Marple Police Department. The animals will be used to assist children who are victims of abuse and neglect. •
Who Ya Gonna Call? Delaware County elected officials applaud $4.6 million in funding for county’s 911 system December. State representatives and senators from Delaware County recently announced $4,561,000 Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program award to improve the county’s aging 911 system. Through bipartisan and bicameral efforts, elected officials helped secure funding to benefit more than 560,000 Pennsylvanians and help Delaware County’s first responders. This project will redevelop existing sites and add additional sites to ensure no loss of communication. It includes 24 tower upgrades to provide acceptable countywide communication coverage, shelter structures, ice bridge, grounding, electric, HVAC, core work additions, and 911 center equipment to communicate effectively in emergency situations with citizens and first responders, as well as with surrounding counties in Southeastern Pennsylvania. The Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program is a grant program administered by the Office of the Budget for the acquisition and construction of regional economic, cultural, civic, recreational, and historical improvement projects. •
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Greatness …
We have you covered! We were honored to share this beautiful evening, surrounded by incredible company on the parking lot of the Delaware County Bar Association for a “Cover Party” in celebration of the Delco re:View, Spring Issue, 2021, featuring the Honorable Charles B. Burr, II, and the Honorable Frank T. Hazel. It cannot be questioned that both offer living proof that “Greatness is not a destination; it is a continuous and unending journey!
Hon. Charles B. Burr, II … “This uncompromising commitment to excellence is what makes being a Judge such an exhilarating challenge, an ‘awe’ful responsibility, one full of awe! To be doing everyday what you enjoy doing is rare. But rarer still is to be doing what you were meant to do.”
Hon. Frank T. Hazel … “We don’t make things we sell. When we do something, we affect the quality of lives, we therefore strive for excellence.”
It is not his last “at bat” … Judge Hazel continues to serve our membership with a seat on the Board of Directors of the Delaware County Bar Association, and, as a valuable, contributing member of the Historical Committee, the Bench Bar Conference Committee, and the newly formed 150th Anniversary Committee to commemorate the sesquicentennial of the Delaware County Bar Association in 2022. In “V Formation” … those with ongoing dedication to the highest standards of the legal profession and the rule of law.
View Greatness Here! Users with a camera phone equipped with the correct reader application can scan the image of the QR (Quick Response) code to display the Spring 2021 Issue of the Delco re:View featuring the Honorable Charles B. Burr and the Honorable Frank T. Hazel.
Editor’s Note: Fascinating! The QR Code (an initialism for Quick Response code), a type of matrix barcode invented in 1994 by the Japanese automotive company Denso Wave for the purpose of tracking vehicles during manufacturing, was designed to allow highspeed component scanning. QR codes are now used over a much wider range of applications. These include commercial tracking, entertainment and transport ticketing, product and loyalty marketing and in-store product labeling. QR Codes gained popularity, especially in the Hospitality industry, with the spread of the COVID-19 virus. They are used as a “touchless” system to display information, show menus, or provide updated consumer information. The initial design of the QR Code was influenced by the game of “Go,” an abstract strategy board game for two players in which the aim is to surround more territory than the opponent. The game is played with a standard Go board, a 19×19 grid of lines containing 361 points, and black and white playing pieces called stones. The game was invented in China more than 2,500 years ago and is believed to be the oldest board game continuously played to the present day. Go was considered one of the four essential arts of the cultured aristocratic Chinese scholars in antiquity. The earliest written reference to the game is generally recognized as the historical annal Zuo Zhuan (c. 4th century BCE). Despite its relatively simple rules, Go is extremely complex. Compared to Chess, Go has both a larger board with more scope for play and longer games and, on average, many more alternatives to consider per move. The number of legal board positions in Go has been calculated to be approximately 2.1×10170, which is vastly greater than the number of atoms in the observable universe, estimated to be of the order of 1080. •
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Home is a Safe Haven The MLO Minute: By Dennis McAndrews, Esq., and Allyson McAndrews, M.Ed. — McAndrews Law Office (MLO) - Special Ed, Disability & Estate Law
O
ctober 2021. One year ago, we were gratified and excited to announce that Clark’s Manor received final zoning approval to commence its cutting-edge group home in Delaware County for individuals with chronic but stable mental health needs. This innovative program recently celebrated its one-year anniversary, and its many partners and stakeholders were graciously recognized by the Widger family which created this magnificent program with the skilled assistance of Elwyn, Inc. in recognition of their son, Clark Widger, who was the first resident of the program. At the anniversary celebration, recognition and crystal rewards were provided to two members of the MLO Legal family, Dennis McAndrews, Esq., who pursued the zoning matter with Nick Caniglia, Esq., and Allyson McAndrews Washo, M.Ed., who has provided marketing activities on behalf of the facility.
Clark’s Manor is an innovative residential milieu program, and the first of its kind in the tristate area. Based on the philosophy that home is a safe haven, this contemporary and nurturing program will be home to 8 adults. Elwyn has provided outstanding professional services at Clark’s Manor, and believes individuals have the greatest chance to realize their potential when given the necessary supports. Clark’s Manor is designed as a therapeutic home setting for residents to receive collaborative behavioral and mental health milieu supports including:
• • • • •
access to care connections to the community activities consistent encouragement; and programs to promote overall wellness, growth in daily living, and social and vocational skills.
For information regarding Clark’s Manor, interested individuals and families are encouraged to visit the Elwyn website at https://www.elwyn.org/services/clarksmanor. •
20th Annual Delco Run for Heroes October: The Run for Heroes benefits the Delaware County Hero Scholarship Fund, which provides scholarships for the children of Police, Firefighters, and Emergency Responders who died in the line of duty. RUNNING … For Heroes! (L to R): Kevin M. Madden, Councilman, Delaware County; Judge Deborah A. Krull; Jack Stollsteimer, Delaware County District Attorney. •
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“Nuts and Bolts:
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The Basics of Custody Litigation” (Sponsored by the DCBA Pro Bono Committee) October. Attendees gained Insight and direction for handling custody cases at the Hearing Officer level. Steven R. Koense, Esquire, a seasoned Family Law practitioner, guided listeners on what to expect and how to prepare for an initial hearing before a Custody Hearing Officer. Esteemed Hearing Officers Gregory Hurchalla, Esq., and Amanda Konyk, Esq., provided insight into the expectations of Hearing Officers, and guidance on what information they require in an effort to recommend a custody schedule that is in the child’s best interest. The Seminar, worth 1.0 Substantive CLE Credit Hour, was offered free of cost to any attorney who agreed to take a pro bono case, including current LASP pro bono volunteers. •
Like A Fine Wine…
The Women in the Law Section DELCO WILS 2021 with Sommelier Marc Supsic & Chef Leslie Frankel
representation to low-income and vulnerable people in Bucks, Chester, Delaware and Montgomery Counties; to empower those in need to solve problems without legal representation through legal education and increased access to the courts; and to change community practices and systems that cause or aggravate poverty … And let us not forget the D’Isanto “I Balzini” White Label Super Tuscan 2012 with a Chocolate Ricotta Cannoli with Blackberry and Ginger-Orange Glaze! The Women in the Law Section is dedicated to the advancement of women practicing law in Delaware County by providing an open forum to discuss issues facing women in the legal profession, fostering leadership among its membership, and providing networking and educational opportunities. •
2021 Officers Chair: September. Cheers to The Women in Law Section (WILS) who hosted a fabulous evening, “Italian Night,” a pairing to benefit Legal Aid of Southeastern PA.
Pamela A. VanBlunk
Vice Chair: Tiffany T. Griffin Treasurer: Rachel Ezzell Berry Secretary: Christina V. Hayes
A sweet close to the event paired charitable proceeds with LASP to assist in fulfilling a mission of providing quality legal
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“Advancing the Rule of Law, Now!” Law Day 2021 The argument invoked issues of school speech and its limits. The training involved not only the student presenters but their entire classroom, all of whom are participants in a Youth Court educational curriculum. Lessons learned in the process reportedly increased the students’ appreciation for education and their comprehension of the Rule of Law. The currency of the issue was emphasized by the then-pending decision in the United States Supreme Court, Mahanoy Area School District v. B.L. Additionally, many students in other classrooms benefitted from their peers’ virtual presentation.
S
ince the late 1970s, the Delaware County Bar Association, along with the Delaware County Court of Common Pleas bench, has proudly sponsored the annual Law Day programming at the 1724 Chester Court House. Law Day this year offered a meaningful and topical opportunity for students in a challenged school district to participate in programming based on this year’s ABA Law Day theme, “Advancing the Rule of Law, Now.” The Chester Court House has been the venue for significant historical events. On July 8, 1776, the Court House bell was rung to summon the local citizens as witnesses to the first reading of the Declaration of Independence. For a number of years, the hallmark of the Chester Law Day Program has been a presentation by local school students followed by their opportunity to ring Delaware County’s own “Liberty Bell.” This year, to accommodate the pandemic, the program was presented virtually, on May 20, 2021, with an eye toward incorporating as many of the traditional live elements as possible. Find a link to the video record of the Program here: https://vimeo.com/553340937 password: arl2021 Welcoming remarks were offered by David E. Robbins, Esquire, Chester Law Day Program Chair, and the Pledge of Allegiance was led by Karen E. Friel, Esquire, 2021 DCBA President. The local sixth grade student presenters were trained by Widener University Delaware Law School “Chadwick Fellows” Katie Costa and Devon Potts, to argue a Moot Court case argument before the Honorable Richard Lowe, dealing with the issue of student speech and limitations imposed by school administration. The virtual program attracted over 120 attendees.
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The Delaware County Bar Association was fortunate to also have Mary Beth Tinker, the plaintiff in the landmark SCOTUS case that originally set the parameters of school limits on student speech, as a Program participant. Tinker v. Des Moines Independent Comm. School Dist., 393 U.S. 503 (1969). She not only participated during the Program, but made herself available to the student presenters during a practice session. Her involvement offered a sense of history to the students’ understanding of the legal process from the perspective of a litigant. The program also featured several vocal selections by Carolyn Hilton Finney, Shiloh Baptist Church, and a “virtual” ringing of the 1724 Courthouse Bell which was also tolled on July 8, 1776, to summon local inhabitants to the market square for a first reading of the Declaration of Independence in Delaware County. Jean Arnold, a Chester resident, former teacher in the Chester Upland School District, and advocate for fair education opportunities, offered feedback on the Program and the associated Youth Court curriculum: “Mrs. Weatherly, her class and others, have done an outstanding job (again) demonstrating the effect of Youth Court. Years ago, my Gates scholars wrote about Youth Court in their essays crediting it with the change and opportunities it afforded them, and we see it in action in this [Law Day] Program for these students at Stetser [Elementary School]. Thinking, writing, speaking, cooperation, self-esteem, problem solving, activism and much more converge in this activity. Youth Court is one of those classes that transforms; what is taught becomes life. We move from the cognitive domain to the affective domain which is a goal in education. It should be a staple in every school alongside of reading and mathematics.” Further, David Keller Trevaskis, Esquire, Pro Bono Coordinator, Legal Services, Pennsylvania Bar Association, remarked, “Programs such as these not only provide incredible educational experiences but, in targeting the poorest of our students and schools, offer a significant form of pro bono service in improving the overall administration of justice. The Law Day work of the Delaware County Bar Association and the local Bench stands out for its ongoing commitment and brilliant execution of the importance of teaching about the Rule of Law.”
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Thank you and a Special Recognition to The Trustees of the E. Wallace Chadwick Foundation whose financial commitment to the Constitution Works Program supports the annual Chester Law Day Program. The assistance of the following is gratefully acknowledged: Parents of the Participants; Chester Upland School District, Dr. Carol Birks, Superintendent; Dr. Juan R. Baughn, Receiver; Dr. Lavada D. Greene, Principal Stetser Elementary School; Morgan Weatherly, 6th Grade Teacher; Gregg L. Volz, Esquire. Widener University Delaware Law School Chadwick Fellowship Committee members Maryann Brown, Esquire; Francis J. Catania, Jr., Esquire; Alice Eakin, Esquire; Kathleen M. Turezyn, Esquire.
The Constitution in Times of Change The Constitution is a dynamic document, as it not only outlines a blueprint for government, but also delegates power, articulates rights, and offers mechanisms for change. It is neither perfect, nor exhaustive, as our nation’s history makes clear. Legislation, court rulings, amendments, lawyers, and “we the people” have built upon those original words across generations to attempt to make the “more perfect Union” more real. That effort continues today, as contemporary leaders and everyday citizens raise their voices as loud as ever to fulfill the promise of the Constitution. Defining and refining those words of the Constitution might be our oldest national tradition, and how each of us works—together—toward a more perfect Union. •
Video provided by Ron Adelberg, Level A Productions, West Chester, PA, Technical assistance Bob Melso, Laser Supply Inc., Springfield, PA.
A Look Ahead at Law Day 2022 … The 2022 Law Day theme is “Toward a More Perfect Union: The Constitution in Times of Change.” “We the People of the United States, in Order to form a more perfect Union…” are the opening words of the U.S. Constitution. At 4,400 words and signed in 1787, it is one of the shortest and oldest written constitutions in the world.
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FOURTH ANNUAL FLYING OF VETERAN CASKET FLAGS CEREMONY, OCTOBER 2021 To view a recording of this special ceremony, go to www.vimeo.com/635363537 Delaware County Veterans Memorial Association (DCVMA) www.DelcoVeteransMemorial.org
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he Veterans and Military Service Committee of the Delaware County Bar Association was formed as a vehicle through which our members who have served our country may be recognized, both those who have passed, and those who are still with us. Additionally, it is the further purpose of this committee to honor all of those who have served our country. In keeping with the purpose of the Veterans and Military Service Committee of the Delaware County Bar Association, the Annual Flying of Veteran Casket Flags is a unique and powerful way to memorialize and celebrate the life and legacy of legendary members from the legal community who shaped Delaware County following their heroic efforts in their military service to the United States of America.
• Richard A. Mitchell, Esq.: United States Army, Vietnam; Military Policeman, Fort Dix, NJ; 716th Military Police Battalion, Provost Marshall, Bien Hoa • James R. Flick, Esq.: United States Army, Vietnam; Bronze Star Medal Recipient • Edmund Jones, Esq.: United States Army, WWII; Captain, Heavy Automotive Maintenance Company, France; Judge Advocate General’s Office, Nuremberg War Crime Trials, Frankfurt, Germany • Howard Richard, Esq.: United States Army, WWII; Served honorably in the Infantry, France; Participated in the Liberation of the Bergen-Belson Concentration Camp, Germany • Thomas J. Russell, Esq.: United States Marine Corp, Corporal, Vietnam; Purple Heart Recipient • The Fallen Heroes of 9/11 Words by Colleen M. Neary, Esquire, on Richard A. Mitchell, Esq., Founder and first Chairman, Veterans and Military Service Committee of the Delaware County Bar Association...
Pictured: The Mitchell Family accepting the flag raised in honor of Richard A. Mitchell, Esq. In honor of legendary members of the legal community who have shaped Delaware County following their heroic efforts in their military service to the United States of America, a flag was raised for each of the following:
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God. Country. Family. Three words that defined a life. Richard A. Mitchell, or “Mitch” as most of us knew him, left his earthly home on April 11, 2020, just 2 weeks shy of his 80th birthday. But what a life of honor, service and love he lived. The son of a banker and English teacher, Mitch grew up in Fair Lawn, New Jersey, just a stone’s throw from New York City. After graduating from Fair Lawn High School, he entered Gettysburg College, where he studied Psychology and Biology. He also enrolled in ROTC, which eventually led to his military career. Upon graduation from Gettysburg, Mitch served his country for 5 years in the U.S. Army as a Military Policeman. Stationed in Fort Dix, New Jersey, he was
assigned a multitude of interesting and important assignments. These included guarding Joseph Valachi, accused Mafia Don, prior to Valachi’s testimony before the United States Senate. In 1962 he also was assigned to ensure James Meredith’s safety when Mr. Meredith became the first African-American student to attend the University of Mississippi. This involved escorting Mr. Meredith to and from his classes for four months in the aftermath of the riots that had resulted from the United States Supreme Court decision forcing the University of Mississippi to desegregate and allow Mr. Meredith to attend. Two people were killed and 206 Marshalls and soldiers were injured in the riots that ensued. Mitch was there, to serve and protect. In 1965 Mitch was deployed to Vietnam, initially serving as the Commander of Company B, 716th Military Police Unit, charged with maintaining the security of Saigon. After 6 months, he was appointed Provost Marshall of Bien Hoa. In addition to his usual duties, Mitch and the other members of his unit volunteered, on their days off, to fly as a door gunner on assault helicopters during assault and rescue missions. Mitch’s exemplary service in Vietnam earned him two Air Medals and two Battle Stars. Most importantly, Mitch respected and honored all veterans, often greeting them, especially Vietnam veterans, with a firm handshake and a “welcome home.” After his service in Vietnam, Mitch became the Deputy Provost Marshall of Fort Dix. In 1967 he left the service of the Army after having served for five years. Upon leaving the military, Mitch enrolled in Villanova Law School. Not surprisingly, he was elected to the Student Bar Association. He completed his rigorous course of study, while holding down a full-time job as a house painter.
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After graduation from Law school, in 1970, Mitch joined Cramp, Diorio, McConchie and Forbes. Later, he struck out on his own, eventually forming his final law partnership, Mitchell, Taylor and Turco. Aimee and Rob were his stalwart partners and he enjoyed mentoring them, as he always was generous with his time for young lawyers. Mitch was always active in the Bar Association, ultimately becoming its President in 1996. He served on committees too numerous to list, but I believe his favorite ones were chairing the Bench Bar Conference Committee as well as the Memorial Committee. Mitch advocated for congeniality in the Bar Association and he was a leader in that. When having Mitch as an opposing counsel, nary a harsh word was said between counsel. He was the consummate professional and while a fierce advocate, he was always respectful of opposing counsel and opposing parties. As a young lawyer, one could always learn from having a case with him. Mitch also served as emcee for our Lawyer’s Club productions for nearly 20 years. His dry sense of humor shined through on these nights. Like all work that he undertook, Mitch took his job as emcee seriously, but with his trademark humor and tongue in cheek quips, he made the night humorous, never engaging in mean barbs against a fellow attorney or the judges, but allowed us all to see the humor and not take ourselves too seriously. Mitch was the first chairman not only of the Military and Veterans Committee, but also of the Memorial Committee. Mitch made sure that when we unfortunately lost a member due to life’s certain end, as a Bar Association we remembered them and honored them with a justly deserved send off. It was important to him that the lives we lead as lawyers be honored. Mitch was so respected by the other members of the Bar Association that I believe he received almost every named award that we have. Mitch was a man of God and active in his church, the Holy Trinity Lutheran church. He sang in its choir for over 40 years. He read scripture for the congregation and often helped with various projects, including the cupcake project that helped to raise money for scholarships for Chester youth.
During Mitch’s tenure at Villanova Law School, he married his sweetheart, Joyce. Together they enjoyed 50 years of marriage, celebrating their golden anniversary shortly before they learned the devastating news of his cancer. Mitch and Joyce raised two wonderful children, their son Richard and their daughter, Jennifer. Anyone who knew Mitch knew of his love, pride, and admiration of his children, but particularly of the six grandchildren with which he was blessed. I believe Mitch’s ability to expertly work a smart phone was borne of his desire to show anyone he saw during the day the most recent photos of the grands that he had taken at their sporting events, family gatherings, or just a candid shot that he had snuck. Pop-pa’s love for them knew no bounds.
• Daniel T. Achuff, Army National Guard, Humane Society Police Officer/ APS Supervisor at Brandywine Valley SPCA, who spoke of our Fallen Heroes of 911 and accepted the flag raised in their honor • Dave Sibley, Owner, On-Video, who recorded the ceremony and made it available for all of us to view • Valley View Golf (formerly Olde Masters); Pam Mariani, Owner, and Brian Robinson
It was my privilege to know Dick Mitchell and my honor to speak of him to you all today. May God continue to bless him, along with his family, many of whom are here today. The Veterans and Military Service Committee of the Delaware County Bar Association thanks you from the bottom of our hearts! • All of our Veterans for their service to the United States of America • The Families of those we honored who shared their beloved Veteran with the Delaware County Bar Association over the years • The Delaware County Bar Foundation, Michael P. Pierce, Esq., President • DCBA Members, Colleagues, and Friends for your attendance to this special celebration held annually • Springfield Township Police Chief Joseph Daly, President, DCVMA • Ceremony Lead, Dennis Murphy, Vietnam Army Veteran, Silver Star recipient and Vice President, DCVMA • The Honorable Clement J. McGovern, Jr. for the Invocation • Soloist, Carolyn Hilton Finney, for her gift of song • Bill Kinney, USMC, Viet Nam Veteran; The Smedley D. Butler Marine Detachment Rifle Salute and Bugler
Pictured (L to R): James R. Flick, Jr., accepting the flag raised in honor of his father, James R. Flick, Esq.; Daniel T. Achuff, Army National Guard, Humane Society Police Officer/APS Supervisor at Brandywine Valley SPCA, accepting the flag raised in honor of our Fallen Heroes of 911 and the Russell family accepting the flag raised in honor of their father, Thomas J. Russell, Esq. Veterans and Military Service Committee of the Delaware County Bar Association: Barry W. VanRensler, Esq., Chairman, CDR, JAGC, USNR (Ret.); Carmen Belefonte, Esq.; Christina Hayes, Esq.; Thomas L. Kelly, Esq.; Colleen M. Neary, Esq.; Tracy E. Price; Daniel C. Van Wyk, Esq.; Abbey Varga, Esq.; and always, in spirit, Richard A. Mitchell, Esq., Founder and first Chairman, Veterans and Military Service Committee of the Delaware County Bar Association. Karen E. Friel, President, 2021, Delaware County Bar Association. • Winter 2021/22
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SERVICE, SACRIFICE & APPRECIATION! veterans including Tuskegee Airman Dr. Eugene Richardson Jr., James Ziegelhoffer, Ruthie Severino, and representatives of the PA Veterans Museum.
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rom simple acts of gratitude, to elaborate parades, America honors all those who served on Veterans Day and the yearly celebration was back in full swing in Media, Delaware County, at 11:11 a.m. on November 11, 2021, with the theme of Afghanistan Veterans. The 61st annual parade included six divisions of veteran soldiers, sailors and Marines who received a warm welcome from the assembled thousands that filled the town to welcome them. In addition to veterans, five marching bands, historic reenactors, fire trucks First Responders, and veteran supporters took part in the hour-long parade, reportedly the largest in Pennsylvania. For so many Veterans, this day is about more than just a parade, it is about service, sacrifice and appreciation. For 61 years, the parade has been just a small way to say thank you to all those who have served. The celebration featured vocalist Ashli Rian Rice, who performed America the Beautiful, A Hero, and God Bless America. Her vocal ability is indeed world class, as it has been described by the Philadelphia Inquirer. You may have heard of Ashli; she has been the featured national anthem singer for the Major League Soccer team, The Philadelphia Union, rendering the National Anthem for the last 3 seasons; she has performed her rendition of the anthem for the National Soccer Coaches Convention at the Pennsylvania Convention Center; and most recently, Ashli performed the anthem at the Wells Fargo Center for the NCAA champions Villanova basketball team. A fine set of speakers graced the steps of the Media Courthouse in celebration of our Veterans in 2021, including: Media’s own, Mayor Bob McMahon; Congresswoman Mary Gay Scanlon; Congressman Conor Lamb (Western PA); PA Attorney General Josh Shapiro; and two Delaware County school students who won a veterans essay contest. Also present were numerous
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The celebration welcomed Cedric Leighton, a retired United States Air Force Colonel and intelligence officer, as the Grand Marshal of the parade. During his 26-year Air Force career, Colonel Leighton served in a variety of intelligence assignments. These ranged from tactical tours with a mobile Signals Intelligence squadron to headquarters assignments at the Pentagon. He deployed five times to the Middle East, witnessed the fall of the Berlin Wall, and coordinated sensitive intelligence operations while assigned to US Special Operations Command. While serving in the Pacific Theater, Colonel Leighton provided extensive intelligence training to allied and partner nation military forces. He developed an innovative intelligence dissemination system that was implemented on 9/11 and is still in use today. Colonel Leighton provided extensive over-the-horizon intelligence support to US and Coalition forces in Afghanistan and was the key provider of specialized intelligence support for the “Shock and Awe” phase of Operation Iraqi Freedom. For these efforts, he was awarded the Bronze Star. After serving as a Squadron Commander, Colonel Leighton served as the Deputy Director for Warfighter Support and Integration in the Intelligence Directorate of the Joint Staff at the Pentagon and then became the Deputy Director of Training for the National Security Agency. In addition to the Bronze Star, Colonel Leighton’s other awards include the Defense Superior Service Medal, the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, 7 Meritorious Service Medals, and the Humanitarian Service Medal. In his post-military career, Colonel Leighton is a strategic and cyber risk consultant and serves as a Military Analyst for CNN. He is heavily involved in the effort to bring our Afghan allies to safety. “I submit that the challenge of our times is that the valor of our veterans has continually secured our freedoms for over 245 years and no matter the challenge, the American veteran is unique among warriors. We do not seek riches, we do not seek plunder, we do not pillage, and instead the American veteran brings freedom… not just to our citizens but to people all over the world.” … Colonel Leighton NB: While we celebrate our Veterans each and every day, Governor Tom Wolf on October 6, 2021, signed Senate Bill 248, which establishes Persian Gulf War Veterans Day on March 6, Global War on Terrorism Veterans Day on October 7, and First
Responders Day on September 27. Tuskegee Airman Dr. Eugene Richardson stole the show for me! Submitted by David Keller Trevaskis, Esquire, Pro Bono Coordinator, PBA … Pictured after the event is David Trevaskis, Esquire (left); Philadelphia Common Pleas Judge Giovanni Campbell (right), a student of Trevaskis’ at Temple Law School; and center, Tuskegee Airman Dr. Eugene Richardson. Tuskegee Airman Dr. Eugene Richardson became interested in flight as a young boy in 1930 when his father and a friend took him along to see the Colored Air Circus, a group of Negro aviators performing an airshow in Mansfield, Ohio. Driven by pure interest to fly, he decided to join the Army Air Corps to become a pilot. When he turned 17, he signed up to take a pilot qualification test. His father eventually gave his permission and signed the parental permission papers needed since Richardson was still underage. He passed the test and a few months later at the age of 18 he was sent to Keesler Field in Mississippi for 3 months of basic training. From Keesler he went on to Tuskegee Army Airfield for 40 weeks of training (10 weeks of pre-flight, 10 weeks of primary, 10 weeks of basic, 10 weeks of advanced). Tuskegee held the civilian contract for pilot training for the Army Air Corps at that time and had 42 Negro civilian instructors. White trainees went to different bases for their 10-week training segments. After Tuskegee, he went to Eglin Air Base for gunnery training and then to Walterboro, SC for combat training. At Walterboro, Richardson learned to fly P-40s and P-47 aircraft. Of the 38 pilots in his class, 23 including Richardson graduated as fighter pilots and 15 as B-25 bomber pilots in Class 45A on March 11, 1945. Dr. Richardson was discharged in July 1946. He returned to Philadelphia where he finished his high school degree at the then-Temple High School where my father was one of his teachers. He did his undergraduate work at Temple and got his Masters’ and D.Ed. at Penn State. He pursued a successful career in education in the Philadelphia School System in which I had the privilege of working at one of his schools as a lawyer presenting civics programs. He did not pursue a career in Aviation after his discharge from the service because, “there was nowhere for a Black aviator to go in the United States – only Tuskegee.” Eugene J. Richardson Jr. was born on September 18, 1925, in Cleveland, Ohio. His early education took place primarily in Toledo, Ohio. Dr. Richardson served in the Army Air Corps during WWII. He was a member of the group that became known as the TUSKEGEE AIRMEN. Eugene was living in Camden, NJ, when he earned the status of Pre-Aviation Cadet in the Army Air Corps. He entered active duty in October 1943, at Keesler Field, Mississippi for basic military training. In February 1944 Eugene went to
Tuskegee, Alabama for pilot training and subsequently received his pilot’s wings and officer’s commission on March 11, 1945, with class 45A. Richardson had a dream of flying ever since attending an Ohio air show starring black stunt fliers in the 1930s. When he turned 17, he left his Camden home for Tuskegee University in Alabama, where he completed combat training a month before the war ended in May 1945. Qualified to fly fighter planes, he was not deployed because the war in Europe ended two months after he was commissioned. Richardson takes great pride in the achievements of his fellow Tuskegee men in Europe, where they gunned down 112 enemy aircraft in their signature red-tailed P-47s and P-41s and provided aerial protection for the bombers flying through the clouds over Germany. The Tuskegee Airmen, the nation’s first black fighter pilots to see combat, did more than risk their lives for freedom in World War II; the outstanding combat record of black pilots shattered pre-war stereotypes and set the stage for historic changes in civil rights during the 1950s and ’60s. “The fantastic functioning of black pilots in World War II inspired desegregation,” Richardson said. “That’s what it says on my medal.” The Congressional Medal of Honor was awarded to Dr. Richardson and his fellow Tuskegee Airmen by President George W. Bush in the White House in 2006 and he’s still proud to wear it. The Tuskegee Airmen are frequently referred to as the men who changed our nation. Long before the marches of Martin Luther King Jr., civil rights advanced in the jet stream of such African-American aviators as Benjamin O. Davis Jr. and Eugene Bullard. “The performance of black pilots in World War II,” Richard stated, “proved that high levels of performance wasn’t the province of guys with light skin.” A former teacher and principal, Richardson recounted the history of blacks in flight. The first black fighter pilot, he noted, was not a Tuskegee Airman. Eugene Bullard, a young Georgia man, flew with the French Foreign Legion during World War I. Citing a report by the Army War College at Carlisle, Richardson said blacks who wanted to fly ran up against systemic prejudice before World War II. The report concluded, he said, that blacks had no leadership qualities. Although Tuskegee Airmen flying distinctive red-tailed P-47 fighters shot down 111 German planes, three German jets and sunk a destroyer, they faced continued discrimination upon returning home. When they got off the gangplank upon returning home, there were signs saying blacks this way and whites this way, the same as when they left. • Winter 2021/22
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Where Dedication to the Practice of Family Law is Tradition! Congratulations to Kathryn Meloni, Esquire, the 2021 recipient of the Eric D. Turner Award … Created in the millennium year 2000, to honor the memory of a lawyer who was dedicated to the practice of family law. The award has since been presented annually to a lawyer “whose dedication, professionalism and integrity most closely exemplifies that of Eric D. Turner.” Kathryn A. Meloni, Esquire, is a solo practitioner in Media, PA. www.kmelonilaw.com She is a 1983 graduate of West Chester East High School, and a 1987 cum laude graduate of West Chester University, where she majored in Criminal Justice and minored in both Psychology and Sociology. Since graduating from Widener University School of Law in 1990, Kathryn has practiced in the areas of family law, personal injury, workers compensation, and wills. She is currently a member of the Pennsylvania Bar Association (PBA) and Delaware County Bar Association (DCBA). She is a fellow of the Pennsylvania Bar Foundation and sat on their Board for the 2000-2001 bar year. In the PBA-Young Lawyers Division, Kathryn was on the executive council from 1993 through 2001, serving in the positions of Zone 9 Co-chair, Secretary, Chair-Elect, and Chair of the organization. In her role with the YLD, she chaired numerous committees. She has also been a member of the following YLD committees: Statewide Mock Trial, Law School Practicum, Statewide Job Fair, and Regional Bench-Bar Committees. Ms. Meloni held the position of Chair of the PBA-YLD in 1999-2000, where her emphasis was on children’s issues.
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Kathryn served a three (3) year term on the Pennsylvania Bar Association Board of Governors. Since that time, she has continued to be active with the organization through the Members Benefits Committee, Commission on Women in the Profession, Animal Law Committee and Family Law Section. In the Delaware County Bar Association, Kathryn was extremely active, holding the position of President of the Young Lawyers Section in 1999. Through this organization, she has worked on numerous community service projects. Kathryn has also been active with the Family Law Section of the Delaware County Bar Association, where she held the offices of Treasurer and Secretary. She was chair of the Custody Rules Committee for the Section for two (2) years. Kathryn was an active member of the Delaware County Bar Association Law Day Committee, the Family Law Legal Education Committee, and the Alternative Dispute Resolution Committee. Further, Ms. Meloni is the recipient of the 1995 DCBA Nicholas D. Vadino, Jr. Award and the 2000 DCBA President’s Recognition Award, two awards of which she is very proud. She served as both Corresponding Secretary and Recording Secretary on the Delaware County Bar Association Board of Directors, as well as serving 2 other terms as Director on the Board. Kathryn served on the Board of Directors of Legal Aid of Southeastern Pennsylvania (LASP) from 2007 through 2013, and was a member of the Board of Overseers of the ALS Association, Greater Philadelphia Chapter from 2010 through 2014, having been involved with the organization since 2004. She is currently very active with PAWS for People, through which her dog is
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a certified therapy dog, and, as a team, they visit hospitals, nursing homes and elementary schools. Ms. Meloni held three terms as Judge of Elections for Chadds Ford Township, South West. From July of 2005 through July of 2012, she served as a Hearing Officer for the Disciplinary Board of the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania for 6 years. She also has been a Commissioner on the Delaware County Women’s Commission from 2012 to 2017. In addition to her active law practice, she continues as an adjunct professor at Villanova University, where she teaches Family Law in the post-baccalaureate paralegal program. Further, she served as Executive Director of Grands Stepping Up from 2020-2021, a non-profit corporation to assist Grandparents (and other kinship relations) who have custody of their grandchildren; she incorporated the non-profit, prepared bylaws, and helped to aid in getting the organization up and running. • Family Law Section 2021 Officers Chair: Emily Venzer-Giszter Chair-Elect: Kimberly Kryzyzaniak Vice Chair: Jennifer M. DiPillo Treasurer: Beth Ann Marshall Secretary: Alicia Fastman
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Live & In-Person at the 48th Bench Bar Conference! SEP TEMBER , 2021
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he Delaware County Bar Association, in keeping with a time-honored tradition, offers their signature event, the Annual Bench Bar Conference. The Conference is designed to be educational, improve the working relationship between members of the bench and bar, and promote lawyers’ participation in various programs to benefit the community of Delaware County. The 2021 Bench Bar Conference delivered yet another year of outstanding Continuing Legal/Judicial Education seminars providing for 12.5 Substantive Credits and 5.0 Ethics Credits. The seminars ran the gamut from Updating a Criminal Justice System During a Global Pandemic; The Burned-out Lawyer – Recognition and Prevention Strategies in the Post-COVID World; The Ethical Trauma-Informed Lawyer: Effectively Representing Clients with Trauma Histories; How to enhance the value of your case, win at trial, and not lose along the way: Recent case law to help turn “good” into “bad” with a dash of Civil Procedure; How to make a Federal Case Out of It: The Eastern District Doors Are Open to Delaware County Lawyers; 7 Estate Administration & Planning Issues You Might Have Missed; Drug Testing in Today’s Family Court; and The Ins & Outs of Openings & Closings – Telling the Story; to the ever popular Legal Jeopardy.
The E. Wallace Chadwick Award is presented annually at the Delaware County Bench Bar Conference to a member of the Bar Association who has served the legal profession in the furtherance of intraprofessional development, communication and education. Congratulations to Craig B. Huffman, Esquire. Presented by Karen E. Friel, Esquire, DCBA President.
48th Annual Bench Bar Conference Award Recipients
The Nicholas D. Vadino, Jr., Memorial Award is presented annually at the Delaware County Bench Bar Conference to a member of the Bar Association for significant contributions by a young lawyer to the organized bar … Congratulations to Maureen Henry, Esq., Judicial Law Clerk, Delaware County Court of Common Pleas. Presented by Jennifer L. Galante, Esquire, President, Young Lawyers Section, and accepted by Rachael Kemmey, Esquire, Executive Board Member, Young Lawyers’ Section
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The Donald J. Orlowsky Award of the Delaware County Bar Association is presented annually to the individual who has contributed most to the improvement and fostering of good Bench Bar Relations ... Congratulations to the Honorable G. Michael Green. Presented by The Honorable Kevin F. Kelly, President Judge, Delaware County Court of Common Pleas.
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Judicial Representatives: Hon. Barry C. Dozor; Hon. Frank T. Hazel; Hon. William “Chip” Mackrides; Hon. George A. Pagano William L. Baldwin, Esquire, Executive Director, DCBA
The Honorable Frank T. Hazel Hall of Fame Award is presented annually at the Delaware County Bench Bar Conference to a member of the Delaware County Bar Association who fosters camaraderie, good will, volunteerism, team play, selflessness, enthusiasm and sportsmanship in the legal field and who most closely exemplifies the Honorable Frank T. Hazel, a great friend and tireless supporter of the Bar Association. Congratulations to Robert M. Firkser, Esquire, Chair, Bench Bar Conference Committee. Presented by The Honorable Kevin F. Kelly, President Judge on behalf of the Honorable Frank T. Hazel.
The Delaware County Bar Association thanks our Bench Bar Conference Committee, our Sponsors, and our attendees for your support, dedication and enthusiasm!
Bench Bar Conference Committee Robert Firkser, Esquire, Chair
Matthew Bilker Patrick Daley Michael J. Davey Robert R. DeLong, Jr. Karen E. Friel Jennifer Galante Scott C. Gottel William G. Halligan Michael H. Hill Rachael L. Kemmey Joseph P. Lesniak Eugene J. Malady
Vincent C. Mancini Joseph T. Mattson Gerald C. Montella Colleen M. Neary Kathleen A. O’Connor Michael P. Pierce Kristen M. Rushing Lyn B. Schoenfeld J. Michael Sheridan Aimee M. Taylor Michael F. Wenke
The Bench Bar Conference is a joint effort of the Court of Common Pleas, Delaware County, The Honorable Kevin F. Kelly, President Judge; and the Delaware County Bar Association, Karen E. Friel, Esquire, President, 2021.
JOIN US IN 2022 AT THE 49th ANNUAL BENCH BAR CONFERENCE! Wednesday, June 8, 2022 through Friday, June 10, 2022 Location: The Annapolis Waterfront Hotel Keynote Speaker: Charles Brandt, the Author of I Heard You Paint Houses on which the movie, The Irishman, Directed by Academy Award winner Martin Scorsese, is based. In addition to this New York Times Bestselling book, Brandt has authored numerous bestselling true crime novels based on the major crimes he solved through interrogation during his illustrious legal career as a homicide investigator, prosecutor and Chief Deputy Attorney General of the State of Delaware •
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LASP … Coordinating Efforts and Meeting Community Needs in the Face of Disaster Legal Aid of Southeastern PA (LASP) partners with ABA Young Lawyers Disaster Legal Services in response to Hurricane Ida Pro bono opportunity to help low-income residents Submitted by Marion Hoffman Fraley, Communications Director/LASP
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urricane Ida raged across Delaware County and southeastern PA on Sept. 1, creating a path of destruction of flooding and tornadoes that will be longfelt. Legal issues related to the storms also won’t dissipate overnight. In fact, storm-related legal problems are expected to continue for at least three years after the initial event and provide an opportunity for pro bono involvement to help lowincome residents. In response to Hurricane Ida and the federal disaster declaration, Legal Aid of Southeastern PA (LASP) is working with the American Bar Association Young Lawyers Division’s Disaster Legal Services Program and FEMA to provide disaster legal aid. Since 2007, the ABA YLD program has provided help in 45 states and more than 200 disasters. In the immediate aftermath of the storm, LASP attorneys staffed legal resource tables. Since the Sept. 10 federal disaster declaration following Hurricane Ida, LASP staff have met weekly with Shrushti Kothari, Project Manager, ABA YLD National Disaster Content and Resources, and former Staff Attorney in the Disaster Relief Unit at Lone Star Legal Aid in Houston, Texas. The weekly disaster legal aid meeting also includes FEMA officials, other Pennsylvania legal aid programs,
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and a Legal Services Corp. (LSC) representative. Kothari also presented an all-staff training on identifying storm-related legal problems to LASP and other Pennsylvania and New Jersey LSC-funded legal aid programs covered by Hurricane Ida disaster declarations. In October, LASP activated the legal aid Helpline for Hurricane Ida in PA, in collaboration with MidPenn Legal Services, North Penn Legal Services (NPLS) and Philadelphia Legal Assistance (PLA). FEMA requires one helpline per state per storm. Low-income Montgomery County residents, as well as people in the seven other counties in the federal disaster declaration, can get free legal assistance by calling 877429-5994 Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-1 p.m., or leave a message. Bedford, Bucks, Chester, Delaware, Montgomery, Northampton, Philadelphia and York counties are included in the declaration. Sara Planthaber, J.D., M.S.W., LASP’s Hurricane Ida Helpline Specialist, noted that as of Nov. 17, LASP has opened storm-related cases based in Delaware County, including FEMA applications and denials and landlord-tenant matters. Of the four counties LASP serves, Montgomery County has the highest number of Ida-impacted legal aid cases.
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Kathryn A. Meloni, Esq., P.C. SERVICES: • ADOPTIONS • Wills & Probate • Family Law • Deeds • Divorces • ED • Custody • Support • PFAs • Deeds • POAs • Living Wills
Examples of legal help available may include:
• FEMA application and other benefits available to disaster survivors. The initial deadline, Nov. 10, was extended to Dec. 10.
• FEMA denials • Help with home repair contracts and contractors • Replacement of identity documents (such as birth certificates and Social Security cards)
• Consumer protection matters • Mortgage-foreclosure or landlord-tenant problems • Life, medical, and property insurance claims In response to increased disasters, Legal Services Corp.’s Disaster Task Force developed a 94-page report in 2018-19 to address the legal impact of disasters on low-income survivors. Among the common legal problems in the wake of a disaster are landlord-tenant issues, public benefits, document replacement, title clearing, FEMA appeals, domestic violence, and consumer and fraud issues. Attorneys and paralegals who wish to volunteer with LASP’s Pro Bono Program in any of these areas may contact Thomas Kerstan, Esq., LASP Staff Attorney and Delaware County Pro Bono Coordinator, at 484-206-7808 or tkerstan@lasp.org. The LSC report encourages community-wide disaster planning and collaboration between the legal and emergency management communities. It states (on page 12): “Despite legal aid’s potential in the aftermath of disaster, there can be a significant gap in the disaster-response landscape when there is a lack of a coordinated effort to deal with the legal needs of disaster survivors. Most emergency management and disaster-response organizations are unaware of the legal issues faced by disaster survivors and the particular needs of low-income communities. Legal services providers have deep networks in low-income communities and have experience creating access for people who face barriers to services and information.” C. Shawn Boehringer, Esq., LASP Executive Director, noted, “This was a case where we responded to an emerging need. LASP is uniquely positioned to address many community needs.”
LAW OFFICE OF KATHRYN A. MELONI, ESQ., P.C. 117-119 North Olive Street, Second Floor Media, PA 19063 610-565-1260 Kmeloni@KMeloniLaw.com www.KMeloniLaw.com
Disaster legal aid resources: • “Report of the LSC Disaster Task Force,” Legal
Services Corp.: https://www.lsc.gov/our-impact/publications/otherpublications-and-reports/lsc-disaster-task-force-report
• Disaster Legal Services Program, American Bar
Association Young Lawyers Division: https://www.americanbar.org/groups/young_lawyers/ projects/disaster-legal-services/
• National Disaster Legal Aid Resource Center: https://www.disasterlegalaid.org/
• Legal Aid Disaster Resource Center: https://www.ladrc.org/
• LASP’s Hurricane Ida page with local, state and U.S. resources: https://www.lasp.org/hurricane-ida •
Note: Hurricane Ida, one of the most powerful and rapidly intensifying storms to hit the United States, delivered days of misery and destruction — from the time it made landfall in Louisiana on the 16th anniversary of Hurricane Katrina to the torrential rains that pummeled the Northeast. Ida is the sixthcostliest tropical cyclone on record, and the fourth-costliest Atlantic hurricane in the United States (tied with Hurricane Sandy), having caused at least $65.25 billion (2021 USD) in damages. Winter 2021/22
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Before Watergate, there was Media 5
0 years ago, on the evening of March 8, 1971, while most of the world was transfixed by the heavyweight championship bout, the “Fight of the Century,” featuring the undefeated world heavyweight champion Joe Frazier and the indomitable Muhammad Ali, a group of eight Philadelphiaarea activists broke into the Media FBI office, located on the second floor of The County Court Apartment building located on the corner of Veterans Square and Front Street, in Media, PA. The burglars, of which there were eight, took just about every document from inside and made history.
writing her book. These included 35,000 files the received from a Freedom of Information Act request. This detailed how the FBI used illegal surveillance techniques to suppress dissenting speech and activities by people and organizations the agency viewed as subversive.
Media FBI Break-In Commemoration Event, September 1, 2021
The Media FBI office was one of more than 500 resident agencies located throughout the country. In these offices were files that circulated from the FBI headquarters in Washington, D.C., by then-director J. Edgar Hoover, who was then the first and only head of the agency since his appointment to the role in the mid-1920s. The burglars found the evidence they needed in the bureau office located in Media to support the widespread surveillance of Hoover’s FBI on American citizens. They copied the documents and mailed them to a senator, a congressman and major newspapers. Betty Medsger, an investigative reporter for The Washington Post at the time, was one recipient and The Post was the first newspaper to publish the documents. The documents sent to the public opened up a new chapter in the country’s history, as, a number of events during that era, including the Media burglary, contributed to changes to how the FBI identified and addressed domestic security threats, leading to reform of the FBI’s intelligence policies and practices and the creation of investigative guidelines by the Department of Justice. On March 11, 1976, the FBI closed their investigation of the group’s burglary without conclusively identifying any of the perpetrators. The members’ identities remained a secret until early 2014, when seven of the eight who could be found agreed to be interviewed by journalist Betty Medsger, who authored a nonfiction book on the event, The Burglary: The Discovery of J. Edgar Hoover’s Secret FBI. The Peace Collection at Swarthmore’s McCabe Library received the approximate 70,000 documents Medsger used when
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Now, 50 years later, as the remnants of Hurricane Ida battered the region with one of the most dramatic and severe storms in regional history, the “burglars” reunited and returned to Media, PA, to participate in a commemorative event entitled “Medburg”, at the former FBI building, 1-7 Veterans Square, where the Fbi’s Counter Intelligence Program, better known as COINTELPRO, had been exposed in 1971. The evening kicked off with the unveiling of the Pennsylvania Historical Marker (pictured) commemorating the FBI office burglary outside 1-6 Veterans Square, Media, PA, and included speeches by Bob McMahon, Media Borough Mayor, and PA Historical & Museum Commission officials. Following, activists Bonnie Raines and Keith Forsyth, Citizens’ Commission to Investigate the FBI, who broke into
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the building all of those years ago; along with Betty Medsger, former Washington Post reporter and author of The Burglary; participated in a book signing at the building and held a tour of the Former FBI Office, the space from which more than 1,000 documents were stolen. Later that evening, a Screening of the Documentary “1971” was held at the Media Theatre, and afterwards, featured an OnStage Panel Discussion led by Marc Lamont Hill, a Professor of Media Studies and Urban Education at Temple University and Host of BNC News. The panelists included Bonnie Raines and Keith Forsyth; Betty Medsger; David Kairys, a Professor of Law at Temple University School of Law, the first James E. Beasley Chair, a civil rights lawyer and author of Philadelphia Freedom, Memoir of a Civil Rights Lawyer and With Liberty and
Justice for Some; and Mike German, former FBI special agent and author of Disrupt, Discredit, Divide: How the New FBI Damages Democracy. The “After Party,” in celebration of a harmonious collaboration of TEDxRoseTree, Media Arts Council, PA Historical & Museum Commission, Visit Delco, PA, Temple University Beasley School of Law and more, for this highly successful, commemorative event, was held at the lovely Gifford - Risley House in Media, PA. This 1877 Gothic Revival-Chalet style bed and breakfast at E. 5th & N. Monroe Streets is owned and maintained by Z and Monika Rehoric, who “welcome all to share in their journey of love and life while enjoying a taste of the past.” www.gifford-risleyhouse.com •
Phoenix Training Addiction and Connection to Treatment
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ools for First Responders to Fight the Opioid Epidemic Center for Addiction and Recovery Education (CARE), Saint Joseph’s University CARE@sju.edu
Hosted by the Delaware County Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers December 3, 2021 Credit approved with the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania Continuing Legal Education Board for 1.00 Legal Ethics credit and 3.00 Substantive credits. This class benefits police, EMS, firefighters, attorneys, correctional officers, children and youth workers and any other individuals who work in, or with, the criminal justice system. This training applies the model of addiction as a chronic disease and aims to remove stigma and encourage hope. Attendees learned the principles of trauma-informed practices and how to have positive interactions with those suffering from substance use disorder. Practical skills such as engagement techniques, Naloxone administration and how to connect individuals to treatment options were also taught. Those who completed this training have a better understanding of the disease of addiction and how they can be part of someone’s recovery.
Training Objectives: • Apply the model of addiction as a chronic disease while removing stigma and encouraging hope • Learn the principles of trauma-informed practice and how they influence first responder interactions • Identify and practice engagement techniques to utilize during interventions to connect people to treatment • Practice critical concepts for Naloxone utilization in communities and the process for post-overdose data entry • Learn about the Law Enforcement Treatment Initiative (LETI) policy endorsed by your county’s District Attorney’s Office. This new program encourages Law Enforcement to serve as bridge to treatment for those suffering from substance use disorder.
“Well attended (in-person) 40+! Informative; thought provoking; dynamic speakers; powerful message!” “YOU are critical to the Mission!” • Winter 2021/22
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A New Chapter... May You be Proud of the work you have done, the person you are, and the difference you have made
“The Face of the Third Floor” … The Delaware County Bar Association congratulates Nancy Harvin on her retirement from the Courthouse. Nancy has been an amazing supporter of the DCBA, and it was always a pleasure to be greeted by her on the third floor. She has been a very dedicated member of the Court staff. The Media Business Authority (MBA) presented a donation in the name of Zubair Khan to the Media-Upper Providence Free Library. Khan is the former Executive Director of the MBA and was recognized recently at a reception at Media’s Towne House honoring his 25 years of service to Media and the MBA. •
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Cheers to a Happy & Healthy New Year!
he Foundation for Delaware County has made a huge impact on Delaware County in its five years of existence.
The Foundation was created on July 1, 2016. In the past five years, it has served more than 10,000 people a year through its public health programs. It has distributed more than $7.1 million in grants, scholarships, and charitable care, help that was particularly crucial during the COVID-19 crisis. The Foundation for Delaware County set up a special COVID-19 Response Fund to help nonprofits meet the needs of individuals and families in Delaware County who suddenly found themselves without work, food, school, and other basic needs. The COVID Response Fund was able to collect and distribute $1 million to those nonprofits that could do the most. It offered multiple donations and giving options to those who wanted to give to causes and issues they cared about. The Foundation for Delaware County led the way on critical issues to the county, including the 2020 census and the new health department; as it brought together partners to provide a county-wide perspective and discussion on those causes and issues. The Foundation’s roots run deep in Delaware County. It was part of the nonprofit Crozer-Keystone Health System and its affiliated hospitals that had collectively served the community for 100 years. When the for-profit health care provider Prospect Medical Holdings Inc. acquired Crozer-Keystone Health System in 2016, federal law required that any nonprofit assets be set aside as a separate and independent charity. That paved the way for the Foundation for Delaware County’s launch on July 1, 2016, becoming Delaware County’s largest community foundation. The Foundation for Delaware County is one of 780 similar community foundations across the country. The grants it creates go to nonprofit organizations that share goals that align with The Foundation’s original mission of improving the health and well-being of the county’s residents. A foundation’s key priority in its 2020-25 strategic plan is to promote diversity and inclusion. In August 2020, the foundation
formed a racial equity task force made up of staff and board members. The task force is now helping individuals as the foundation examines and defines its role in dismantling racism and engaging Delaware County partners in conversations about achieving equity and justice. In the past year, the task force launched a discussion series, held community roundtables and webinars, and revised foundation policies to be more intentional about diversity and equity in grantmaking, vendor relations, and staff hiring. “We are so grateful for your support, encouragement, and partnership over the past five years and we look forward to doing so much more in the years to come. Our plans are ambitious. Stay tuned for some exciting updates in the year ahead!” Frances Sheehan, Foundation President
Meet Delaware County’s First Health Department Director November 2021. The Board of Health approved Melissa C. Lyon, CPH, as the first Delaware County Health Department Director. Lyon brings more than 20 years of healthcare and public health experience to Delaware County in her new role “This is an exciting next step for the County as we prepare to launch the Delaware County Health Department in January 2022,” Delaware County Council Vice Chair Dr. Monica Taylor said. “Melissa will focus on ensuring the health and well-being of our community through the collection and evaluation of hyperlocal data and fostering community partnerships to deliver programs and resources for all residents.” •
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“New Custodians of the Dream!”
August 2021. Villanova students, staff, alumni and other community members were informed by University President Rev. Peter M. Donohue, O.S.A., Ph.D., of Villanova’s new role as permanent steward of the original copy of Dr. Martin Luther King’s momentous “I Have a Dream” speech.
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he announcement, released on the eve of the speech’s 58th anniversary, described how the document came into the University’s possession—through its former steward, George Raveling. Raveling graduated from the University in 1960 and was a former men’s basketball player and assistant coach. He attended the famous March on Washington on August 28, 1963 on a whim, agreeing to volunteer as a member of the security staff the day before the march. In a stroke of luck, fate or coincidence, Raveling found himself face-to-face with King just after he spoke and asked for the copy of his speech. King obliged, and Raveling has been in possession of the speech for the past 58 years. Clearly, however, the speech’s historic significance quickly became more apparent as a major call to action during the Civil Rights Movement. Likewise, Raveling held a consequential role as the document’s keeper.
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According to Donohue’s announcement, Raveling, who also served as the commencement speaker for Class of 2016, has repeatedly articulated his wish to pass stewardship to Villanova University, holding dear the years of instruction, community and Augustinian values instilled in him during his time as a student and coach. The University has entered into a collaboration with the Smithsonian and the National Museum of African American History in Washington, D.C. to fulfill the mission of making the document broadly accessible. As part of a long-term loan agreement with the University, the speech will be displayed at the museum as part of the new “Defending Freedom, Defining Freedom” exhibit. The speech, when not on loan to the National Museum of African American History or other like institutions, will permanently reside on campus in a location yet to be determined. •
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Dr. Sandra Weiss:
45 Years in the Classroom Neumann University has named a laboratory classroom in honor of Dr. Sandra Weiss, who has retired after teaching clinical laboratory science for 45 years. The Dr. Sandra M. Weiss Laboratory In recognition of her 45 years of service to Neumann University and for her dedication to the Biology Clinical Lab Sciences Program and its students, this classroom laboratory has been generously gifted by her Family, Friends, Colleagues and Alumni and named in honor of Dr. Sandra M. Weiss, Professor and Director of Clinical Lab Sciences. Dr. Sandra Weiss was born and raised in Delaware County and currently resides in Chadds Ford, PA, with her husband, Donald J. Weiss, Esquire, active DCBA member and Past President, 1990. Of her years in Delaware County, Dr. Weiss has spent countless hours on the third floor of the Bachmann Building in the laboratory that now bears her name. She came to Neumann in 1976 to teach medical technology and became director of the university’s Clinical Laboratory Science (CLS) Department in 1985. Under Weiss’s leadership, the Biology/CLS program became one of Neumann’s most successful in terms of career preparation. More than half of her students have had job offers in hand before they graduate, and they have been hired by A.I. Dupont Hospital, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Christiana Medical Laboratories, Einstein Medical Center, and the University of Pennsylvania Medical Laboratories, among others. Many immediately pursue advanced degrees.
According to Weiss, clinical laboratory scientists are experts who perform highly complex testing, such as tests for COVID-19, to assist physicians in patient diagnosis and treatment. They use sophisticated biomedical instrumentation and technology to perform laboratory testing on blood and body fluids. During her decades at Neumann, she has taught biology, immunology, human anatomy and physiology, medical science, and hematology. She has authored publications and presentations that deal with academic performance, learning style and student satisfaction; curriculum development for information literacy standards; and assessment of cognitive ability. Weiss has won the Lindback Distinguished Teaching Award, Neumann’s Faculty Award for Growth in Scholarship, an Outstanding Research Award from the Pennsylvania Research Association, faculty development grants, and math and science grants from the Southeastern Pennsylvania Consortium for Higher Education. She also participated in a National Science Foundation grant to study teaching excellence in STEM secondary education and was selected for inclusion is the Trademark Women of Distinction 2020 Honors Edition. Now a professor emeritus, she holds an EdD from Widener University, an MA from West Chester University, and a BS from Drexel University. •
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“We’ll take ‘Best Town’ for $500, Bill!”
ill Whitaker, a correspondent for 60 Minutes, recently guest hosted Jeopardy!, the American television game show created by Merv Griffin and hosted by Alex Trebek for 37 seasons from its revival in 1984 until his death in 2020.
From left, Media Fellowship House Executive Director Heather Bickley, siblings Gail Whitaker, Bill Whitaker and Anita Whitaker Johnson, and MFH Board President Rachel Smith. “Fellowship House has been a force in the community for decades with programs including education, housing and scholarships. The infusion of cash will help secure all of these to go on,” Whitaker said. It is rewarding when those who have achieved success do not forget their roots. Renowned journalist Bill Whitaker was in the borough to be thanked for remembering his hometown in a big way.
Thanks to contestants’ winnings over the course of Whitaker’s stint, and his selection of this worthwhile organization, the total was $257,998. (A $2 bill donation during the dinner rounded out the figure nicely.)
Media Police Officers Helmandollar, Bellucci, Young and Dintino, along with Mayor McMahon and DCBA Member Gail M. Whitaker, Esquire, DCBA Past President, 2003, welcomed Bill Whitaker (Gail’s brother), a Media native, to Dining Under The Stars (DUTS).
More about a favorite from “Everybody’s Hometown” … Bill Whitaker, a native of Media, PA, graduated from Hobart and William Smith Colleges with a B.A. degree in American history and from Boston University with a master’s degree in AfricanAmerican studies. Whitaker also holds a master’s degree in journalism from the University of California, Berkeley. He was awarded an honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters from Hobart and William Smith Colleges in 1997.
Now with “CBS 60 Minutes,” Whitaker took a side gig as one of the guest hosts on “Jeopardy” after the passing of Alex Trebek. The hosts were offered the opportunity to choose an organization to receive a sum matching contestants’ winning. In choosing Media Fellowship House, Whitaker reached back more than 75 years to the founding of this social justice organization which had been inspired and co-founded by his and Gail’s mother, Marie, after a witnessed incident of racial discrimination at the State Street restaurant.
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He has covered major news stories domestically and across the globe for CBS News over four decades. He is the 2018 winner of the Radio Television Digital News Association’s (RTDNA) highest honor, the Paul White Award for career achievement. He was named a 60 Minutes correspondent in March 2014; the 2020-21 season is his seventh on the broadcast. •
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The Inn is Golden! T
he Guy G. deFuria Inn of Court was organized to promote collegiality and excellence in the practice of law. Since 1991, the Inn has been providing opportunities for DCBA members to network and participate in excellent CLE programming. The Inn was awarded “Gold Status” for 20202021 through the American Inns of Court “Achieving Excellence Program.” In order to achieve this status, an Inn chapter must demonstrate the following:
• • • •
Effective Administration
The Inn Crowd! The Guy deFuria Inn of Court Award is part of the larger American Inns of Court Circuit Professionalism Awards which are awarded each year to a lawyer or judge whose life and practice display sterling character and unquestioned integrity, coupled with ongoing dedication to the highest standards of the legal profession and the rule of law. The Award was established in 1991 to celebrate the career of this former acting Delaware County District Attorney and distinguished trial lawyer.
Program Development and Competency Mentoring Outreach Activities
The Guy G. deFuria Inn of Court Award for Achievement and Commitment to the Legal Profession: Richard M. Heller, Esquire, 2019-2020
The Guy G. deFuria Inn of Court worked hard to achieve this status, and many thanks go to the Inn leadership and members for their commitment and dedication. The history of the Inns of Court can be traced back to the 14th century, and prior to the introduction of bar examinations in the United Kingdom in the 19th century, all lawyers were trained by the Inns through a process similar to an “apprenticeship.” Students and lawyers would live, work, and dine together in the respective Inn to which they belonged and would thus learn the practice of law and skills necessary to serve in the courts. The movement to create Inns of Court in the U.S. began in the 1970s under the leadership of Supreme Court Chief Justice Warren Burger, who wanted to emulate the model of the British Inns. The American Inns of Court Foundation was created in 1985, and this organization began to charter Inn chapters throughout the country. Unlike the British counterpart, membership in American Inns of Court is not mandatory for attorneys, and the Inns really serve as associations which promote professionalism, civility, ethics, and skills development for members of the legal profession. The Guy G. deFuria Chapter of the American Inns of Court, a section of the Delaware County Bar Association, continues to offer member attorneys the opportunity to meet together regularly and to support and mentor one another. If you are a DCBA member and would like more information about joining the Inn of Court, visit the Inn’s website at www.defuriainnofcourt.org.
Hon. Kevin F. Kelly, 2020-2021 The Guy G. deFuria American Inn of Court Presidents Award Joseph P. Lesniak, Esquire, 2019-2020 Pamela Van Blunk, Esquire, 2020-2021 Special Recognition Award To the Board of Judges, 2020-2021, and accepted by the Hon. George A. Pagano OFFICERS – 2021-2022 President: Conal P. Hickey, Esquire President-Elect: Mary Jo Gilsdorf, Esquire Vice President: Wana Saadzoi, Esquire Treasurer: William L. Baldwin, Esquire Secretary: Timothy Frey, Esquire Judicial Representative: Hon. George A. Pagano •
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SALUTE to Delco Hometown Heroes & Pioneers, both on the field & off! 1946 and continued his collegiate career at the University of Iowa. After leaving college in 1948, he hitchhiked from his home in Pennsylvania to New York for a tryout with the New York Giants. Tunnell was the first Black player signed by the Giants (1948 to 1958) and later played for the Green Bay Packers (1959–1961).
Emlen Lewis Tunnell (March 29, 1924 – July 23, 1975), an American professional football player and coach. He was the first African-American to play for the New York Giants and also the first to be inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Emlen Lewis Tunnell was born in Bryn Mawr and graduated from Radnor High School. He played college football at the University of Toledo before and after World War II, he enlisted from 1943 to
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In total, Tunnell played 14 seasons in the NFL as a defensive halfback and safety having been selected as a first-team All-Pro six times and having played in nine Pro Bowls. He was a member of NFL championship teams in 1956 and 1961. When he retired as a player, he held NFL career records for interceptions (79), interception return yards (1,282), punt returns (258), and punt return yards (2,209). He then became a scout and one of the league’s first Black assistant coaches, helping fully integrate both the Giants and the Packers. In 1967, Tunnell was the first Black man and the first defensive specialist to be enshrined in Canton. Tunnell passed away at 50 years old in 1975, but his legacy lives on. At the beginning of 2017, the Sports Legends of Delaware County Museum in Wayne, PA, commissioned sculptor Jennifer Frudakis Petry to create a seven-foot bronze statue of Tunnell to commemorate the memory of this WWII and NFL hero. This statue is housed outside of the Museum where inside the Radnor Township Municipal Building, visitors are able to see displayed items such as his high school yearbook and NFL jerseys provided by his family.
In July 2017, NFL analyst Gil Brandt selected Emlen as the top safety of all time. This occurred just prior to Emlen’s fans celebrating the 50th Anniversary of his being the first African-American inducted into pro football’s Hall of Fame. Prior to the 2020 Super Bowl, Emlen was named one of NFL’s top 100 players of all time.
Honor, Respect, and Devotion to Duty! Tunnell served in the United States Coast Guard from 1943 to 1946 and has been commemorated in several tributes for his service during World War II. He received the Silver Lifesaving Medal for heroism in rescuing a shipmate from flames during a Japanese torpedo attack in 1944 in Papua New Guinea, and for rescuing another shipmate who fell into the sea in 1946.
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In October 2021, the U.S. Coast Guard announced that a new Sentinel-Class Fast Response Cutter (FRC) designed to serve a multi-mission role has been named for Delaware County’s own Steward’s Mate 1st Class Emlen Lewis Tunnell. The 45th FRC is the first military ship to carry the name of a professional athlete. Number 45 was Tunnell’s number with the New York Giants. Each FRC is named for an enlisted Coast Guard hero who distinguished themselves in the line of duty. Tunnell’s exploits as a Coast Guardsman and then as a ground-breaking African-American in the world of professional sports, Tunnell, through his achievements both on and off the field, demonstrated the Coast Guard’s core values of Honor, Respect, and Devotion to Duty.
with Billy and his family (now living in Atlanta). Under the leadership of Jim Vankoski, the DelCo Sports Hall of Fame has announced plans to fund the design and erect the life size statue of hometown hero Billy to join the statue of another legendary Marcus Hook hometown hero – American League Baseball Star Mickey Vernon. Billy and Mickey exemplify the families of Marcus Hook that also include US Marine Corps General Bob Haebel. Please join in contributing to this noble effort to fund the statue of this great American role model!”
• Project Name: Team White Shoes Statue Fund
• Presented by: Sports Legends
of Delaware County Museum, a 501(c)(3), whose Mission Statement is: To honor an iconic Delaware County football legend, Billy “White Shoes” Johnson, with the creation of an over life size 7 foot bronze tribute statue, by sculptor Jennifer Frudakis Petry, to acknowledge excellence, preserving the heritage of our local sports history by recognizing and rewarding such excellence. www.delcosportsmuseum.org
• Total Fundraising Goal for Project = $100,000
• Targeted Completion &
Ceremony: Projected for Fall, 2022
• Site Location: The Borough of Marcus Hook
Bring Billy “White Shoes” Johnson Home! PA Legendary NFL Football Star Billy ‘White Shoes’ Johnson grew up in Marcus Hook, PA where his father Leonard served as a Police Officer. As Mayor of Marcus Hook at the time, Curt Weldon had the honor of promoting Leonard to Sergeant and still retains his lifelong friendship
William Arthur Johnson (born January 27, 1952), better known as Billy “White Shoes” Johnson, is an American former professional football player who was a wide receiver and return specialist in the National Football League (NFL) from 1974 through 1988. Johnson was also a star sprinter, and competed in Masters Track and Field after his football career.
Johnson earned his famous nickname as a high schooler in the Chichester School District, Boothwyn, PA, where he dyed his shoes as part of a dare. Ever since then, he has been referred to by his nickname. He was one of the first players to display elaborate celebrations in the end zone. As a rookie with the Oilers, he began celebrating touchdowns with a dance known as the “Funky Chicken,” a dance based on a song from soul singer Rufus Thomas. It was one of the first touchdown celebrations in league history. As one of the most colorful and amazing open field runners in college football, Billy “White Shoes” Johnson graduated with over 20 school, game, season and career records. During his time at Widener College (1971-73), he shattered no less than nine all-time NCAA marks and 12 Middle Atlantic Conference records. Johnson scored 62 career touchdowns, rushed for 3,737 yards and accounted for 5,404 all-purpose yards. He was named All-American in 1972 and 1973 by both the American Football Coaches Association and the Associated Press. Johnson was also part of the first class inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1996. His play at Widener helped build the foundation for the national championship teams that were to follow. Johnson went on to play for the Houston Oilers, the Atlanta Falcons and the Washington Redskins in the NFL as well the Montreal Alouettes in the CFL. He was named to the NFL’s 75th Anniversary All-Time Team as a punt returner in 1994 and to the MAC All-Century Team in 2012. In 2018, he was inducted into the Philadelphia Sports Hall of Fame. He remains the only man selected to the National Football League 75th Anniversary All-Time Team who is not in the Pro Football Hall of Fame. •
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