Chester County Press 01-18-2023 Edition

Raul Juarez-Lara Jr. to serve on Oxford Borough Council

By Betsy Brewer Brantner Contributing Writer

The composition of Oxford Borough Council has changed considerably over the last four years.

For most of its history, Oxford Borough Council was made up of mostly men, but the numbers started leaning in a different direction in 2018 as the borough elected its first female mayor, and the number of

Becomes first Latino selected for Borough Council

female council members rose to three on the sevenperson council. In 2020, the women outnumbered the men on council.

Now, in council’s first meeting of the new year, the count remains four women and three men, and for the first time in the borough’s history, one of those men is Latino.

Council unanimously approved a motion to appoint Raul Juarez-Lara Jr. to borough council to fill

the council seat left vacant when Mary-Laura BuchnerHulse resigned. He will be sworn in at the next council meeting on Jan. 23 and he will serve for the remainder of the term until January 2025.

Council has repeatedly said they needed a more diverse council indicative of their diverse community so with a Latino member finally approved, they may finally establish an Advisory Council of Latino Affairs

(ACOLA).

Latinos make up over 30 percent of the population of the borough and council members continue to move forward in forming a group where the Latino voice can be heard. And they do not plan to stop there, but continue to seek inclusion of other ethnicities, races and cultures on the council.

In other business, council approved the following:

• A hearing and motion to adopt an ordinance amend-

ing chapter section 2003 pertaining to certificates of use and occupancy, and section 27-202, definitions related to establishment of a non-residential use of occupancy requirement.

• A motion to approve a master service agreement and statement of work between the borough and CivicPlus to make improvements to the borough website, inclusive of the first year fee of $22,645.94 and an annual recurring fee,

beginning in year two, of $5,351.88.

• A motion to approve a resolution for the official appointments of certain borough employees.

• A motion to approve resolution for the appointments of various borough officers and other annual designations.

• A motion to approve a resolution designating emergency service providers for the borough.

Lincoln University audience celebrates life, words of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

By Richard L. Gaw Staff Writer

Over the course of his short, 39-year life, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. scattered his wisdom, his commitment and his grandest dreams in the form of some of the most eloquent words ever uttered in the English language, as if they were the hopeful seeds to a better world.

On Jan. 16, before a large and appreciative audience of more than 250 at Lincoln University’s Wellness Center, a few of those words were shared at the 22nd Annual Celebration of MLK Day, sponsored by the Martin Luther King Community of the Greater Kennett Area.

In her opening comments, Carol Black, the president of the board of directors for the MLKCommUNITY, said Dr. King’s contributions to the Civil Rights Movement of the 1950s

and 1960s made him one of the most influential persons in history. She recalled some of King’s milestones, which included the 1955 Montgomery Bus Boycott that helped to end segregation in public buses; his founding of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference; the Birmingham Campaign, which called out police brutality and injustice; the Great March on Washington in 1963; the adoption of non-violent resistance to achieve equal rights fro Black Americans that earned him the Nobel Peace Prize; and for his marches throughout the Deep South that led to the end of voting restrictions in southern states and eventually the passage of the Civil Rights Acts of 1964 and 1965.

“We honor him today for his groundbreaking achievements in advancing racial equality and justice for all people, and for his

Kennett Township to develop ‘regionalization’ of services in 2023

By Richard L. Gaw Staff Writer

Among the key projects for Kennett Township this year will be to explore methods of regionalizing many of its services in partnership with other municipalities, which was shared at the township’s reorganizational meeting in early January.

In his comments, new Board of Supervisors Chairman Geoffrey Gamble spelled out what he envisioned would be the township’s top priorities in 2023, which will include establishing a strategic regionalization of township services; namely, sewer, fire, police, public works and finance, in an effort to “contain our budget and the burden it imposes on our residents” in partnership with neighboring jurisdictions.

Gamble said that two of the township’s other priorities this year will be to

continue to make progress on developing the Chandler Mill Trail, moving forward with the development of the Spar Hill Farm as an educational and historical destination, and continuing to secure and protect open spaces. Currently, the township has protected 22.5 percent of its total land, with a goal of increasing to 30 percent.

Gamble will be re-joining current board member Richard Leff – who will serve as vice chairman –and Scudder Stevens, who served as vice chairman in 2022. .

Gamble said another priority for the township this year will be to review all township committees and commissions over the next six months, in order to determine how best to fill the township’s obligations to its residents.

Gamble added that municipal government has two primary roles – to provide

between the

Let’s meet in the Grove

services for its residents what the private sector cannot or will not provide, and to enact and enforce rules for the good of the community as a whole, as

well as be responsible for the management of public infrastructure.

“Municipalities are also the primary providers of public safety services,

including emergency management and response, and police, fire, and ambulance service,” Gamble said. “In addition, the

Photo by Richard L. Gaw

Blondes and Brewnettes, a new taproom and brew house in West Grove, enjoyed a successful soft opening on Jan. 13. Designed by Twelves Grill and Café owners Knute and Bernadette Mellon as a family-centric indoor-outdoor beer garden, the establishment will feature a wide selection of beers made on premise and a menu of sandwiches, snacks and flatbreads. Pictured with the Mellons, far right, are Ashley Mastronardo, far left, and Christine Horner.

www.blondesandbrewnettes.beer.

dedication to non-violence, and we will never forget him, will we?” Black said.

“We will never forget his bravery, his compassion and his love for all mankind.

“Dr. King’s vision for us today is to work to build

the Beloved Community – a group of people who could come together to solve any issue. Dr. King taught us how to build that community. He said, ‘Creating the Beloved Community is about bringing the gaps

haves, but bridging the gaps between the haves and the have-nots with real opportunities. It’s about creating more of that precious commodity that we call hope – real hope for

Photos by Richard L. Gaw

An audience of more than 250 attended the 22nd Annual Celebration of MLK Day, sponsored by the Martin Luther King Community of the Greater Kennett Area, held Jan. 16 at Lincoln University.

Local News

MLK Event...

Continued from Page 1A

the forgotten, the disadvantaged and the marginalized citizens of our communities, regardless of their race.”

Following a fellowship breakfast, the event featured readings of excerpts from King’s most famous speeches, delivered by Lincoln students Jemeria PantoonWhitehead, Kamar Durant and Nyle Buckann; and Ambika and Tom Chacko; and musical performances by the Lincoln University Concert Choir, under the direction of Victoria Pitre.

After a presentation by keynote speaker and Lincoln graduate Oliver St. Claire Franklin -- now a filmmaker and the Third Honorary British Consul of Philadelphia -- the event sponsored individual workshops and presentations.

In his presentation, former Sen. Andy Dinniman led a discussion on the current racial and political divide facing the United States, and

Oxford Borough Council...

Continued from Page 1A

• A motion to authorize advertising the 2023 meeting dates.

• A motion to reappoint Richard Nelson and Ronald Hershey to the Oxford Planning Commission for terms extending from 2023 to 2026.

solutions that could create a just and equitable community. Karen Simmons, Timothy Nelson of the Chester County Community Foundation discussed their foundation’s current work in developing diversity, equity and inclusion in their programs and initiatives throughout the county.

• A motion to appoint Bethany Atkinson as Vacancy Board chair (One-year term).

• A Motion to approve BBD, LLC’s proposal to provide audit services for the Borough for the year ending December 31, 2022, with the option to renew through the year ending December 31, 2024.

The event concluded with a screening of Franklin’s film, Slavery in the Age of Revolution, that reflected on the transatlantic slave trade and its lasting impact on society.

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

• A motion to approve a certificate of appropriateness application for 38 S. Third Street conditioned upon zoning approval.

• A motion to approve a certificate of appropriateness application for 19 N. Third Street.

There was an update on the Subdivision and Land Development and Zoning Ordinances Revision – the

Smith and Waite selected as Oxford Rotary Seniors of the Month

including cross country, and track. He is captain of his cross-country team.

Alex

He

He is involved in Interact Club, which is connected with the Rotary and brings together young people ages 12 to 18 to develop leader-

ship skills while discovering the power of “Service Above Self.”

Alex is currently working on a tree-plenish project. More information can be found at: https://www.treeplenish.org.

The organization will send trees to schools. Alex will have to create a website and invite sponsors, such as businesses or individuals, to participate. Trees can be ordered on the website and the trees will be planted for residents in the community.

The trees for this area are white oak, red maple, and eastern red bud. Planting will be done on April 29 and additional information will be forthcoming.

Alex is a member of the

plan is to have a kick-off meeting in February with the group handling this.

There was also an update from the Advisory Commission on Latino Affairs (ACOLA) Working Group. The first meeting is planned for February before the Borough Council meeting. Council member William Fitzpatrick is hoping for a well-attended

meeting. During that meeting, goals will be set for the commission.

Council also discussed the including Juneteenth as a designated borough holiday. Council is inclined to include that when negotiating contracts. Also, discussed was the Oxford Mainstreet, Inc. request for temporary signage on lampposts in the Business

Improvement District.

Council member Peggy Ann Russell informed everyone that January is Human Trafficking Awareness Month.

Council member Robert Ketcham also acknowledged his appreciation of the borough staff and their work on the budget.

The next council meeting will be held on Jan. 23.

National English Honor Society and National Science Honor Society. He is treasurer for the Helping Hands Club and is the secretary of the FBLA. He is also involved in Boy Scouts and recently completed an Eagle Scout project for the cross country course.

“I had a lot of help with that project,” he said.

He also has a job with Ware Presbyterian Village. He plans to major in finance and economics and would like to be a financial advisor.

He has applied at a number of colleges and been accept-

ed at West Chester University and the University of Tennessee, and is waiting for news on other applications.

Meilyn is involved in National Honor Society and National English Honor Society, where she is president this year.

She is also a member of Helping Hands and the Rotary Interact Club. This year’s Interact ventures was Project Linus, where they made blankets for children.

“I love being involved in those clubs and go wherever I am needed,” she said.

Meilyn has been accept-

ed at two colleges, Baylor University and the University of Pittsburgh. She plans to major in biology on a prephysician tract.

She has a number of hobbies. She has played piano for seven years, is on her church Praise Team, and she enjoys crocheting.

Her parents, Sue and Daniel Smith, home-schooled her for a number of years, and she started attending Oxford schools about four years ago.

“I am very thankful for Oxford High School and all the opportunities they have given me,” she said.

Photos by Richard L. Gaw

The event was highlighted by musical performances by the Lincoln University Concert Choir.

Lincoln University junior Barack DoDoo delivered words of inspiration at the event.

Oxford Area High School seniors Alex Waite and Meilyn Smith have been selected as the Oxford Rotary Seniors of the Month.

is the son of Jennifer and Michael Waite.

is involved in sports,

Courtesy photo

Oxford Area High School seniors Alex Waite and Meilyn Smith have been selected as the Oxford Rotary Seniors of the Month. Pictured (left to right) are Dr. Ray Fischer, the Oxford Rotary president; Jenn Waite, with son Alex; and Meilyn Smith with her parents Sue and Dan Smith. Dr. Fischer is also the executive director of the Oxford Educational Foundation.

Chester County Hospital recognized in the

2023 U.S. News & World Report ‘Best Hospitals’ issue for cardiovascular care

Chester County Hospital has been recognized by The American College of Cardiology (ACC) as a featured hospital in the 2023 U.S. News & World Report “Best Hospitals” insert. This year, the ACC recognized over 2,000 hospitals that are committed to quality and process improvement and participate in the National Cardiovascular Data Registry (NCDR) and/or ACC Accreditation Services. Of the 100 Pennsylvania hospi-

Kennett Township...

Continued from Page 1A

Commonwealth has given us the ability to plan for the future of our community through land use tools, such as subdivision and zoning ordinances, so we can control how we want to develop.”

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

by Richard L. Gaw Geoffrey Gamble, pictured here being sworn into office last January to begin his six-year term, will serve as the chairman of the Kennett Township Board of Supervisors in 2023.

tals recognized, Chester County Hospital has the most engagement with the ACC’s quality and process improvement programs, boasting the most registry participation, accreditations, and awards.

Patients and caregivers can trust hospitals and centers that participate in the NCDR, receive the ACC’s Accreditation seal of approval, and are recognized with the Chest Pain

– MI Registry Performance Achievement Award and

the HeartCARE Center Award for delivering the best cardiovascular patient care.

The hospital received the following accreditations and honors from the magazine's report:

ACC Accreditation Services

• Cardiac Cath Lab Accreditation

• Chest Pain Center Accreditation

• Electrophysiology Accreditation

• NCDR

• CathPCI Registry

• Chest Pain — MI Registry

• EP Device Implant Registry

• LAAO Registry

• STS/ACC TVT Registry

Honors

• Chest Pain — MI Registry Performance Achievement Award, Gold

• HeartCARE Center

“For more than 25 years, the Cardiovascular Center at Chester County Hospital has focused on data driven patient outcomes in the care and management of cardiac diseases inclusive of Emergency Cardiac illnesses like acute myocardial infarctions treated with intracoronary therapeutics coupled with community EMS/Paramedic services, congestive heart failure and advanced electrophysiology treatment of arrhythmias like atrial fibrillation,” said Dr. Timothy Boyek, Medical Director, cardiac diagnostic interventional catheterization laboratories at Chester County Hospital. “The arduous ACC Accreditation process and recognition reflects a community wide endeavor of the entire hospital system from our local EMS providers, Emergency Department, Cardiovascular Service

physicians, Nursing, and Hospital Administration who strive 24-7 to provide lifesaving cardiovascular care to the residents of our county and beyond.”

The mission of the ACC is to transform cardiovascular care and improve heart health. The ACC provides professional education, operates national registries to measure and improve the quality of care, disseminates cardiovascular research, and bestows credentials upon cardiovascular specialists who meet stringent qualifications.

More than just ACC’s suite of data registries, NCDR is a comprehensive network of cardiovascular care providers committed to ensuring evidence-based care, improving patient

Dr. Timothy Boyek, medical director, cardiac diagnostic interventional catheterization laboratories at Chester County Hospital.

outcomes, and lowering healthcare costs.

To learn more about this recognition and for a deeper dive into Chester County Hospital’s accreditations, please visit the American College of Cardiology website.

Photo

Courtesy photos

Chester County Hospital has been recognized by The American College of Cardiology (ACC) as a featured hospital in the 2023 U.S. News & World Report “Best Hospitals” insert.

WEST GROVE JENNERSVILLE

The cost of continuing to do nothing

It took the dangers of a worldwide pandemic to fully comprehend the depth of one of the most alarming realities facing Chester County today.

Two years ago, Joan Holliday, a former public health nurse, and Jim Mercante, the former owner of a tech company, came together to form the Southern Chester County Digital Equity Coalition. The newly-formed organization’s mission took its motivation from the glaringly undersized internet connectivity and digital literacy that had been pervading the southern half of the county, the spotlight of which had been illuminated by the necessity to learn, connect and conduct life’s business online due to COVID-19.

In their research, Holliday, Mercante and volunteers with the Coalition quickly discovered that vast pockets of the region had not been the beneficiaries of internet service providers and were left barren of valuable connections.

They heard of hundreds of students in local school districts who fell behind academically because they had no home computers and were forced to communicate with their teachers and attend classrooms while standing in parking lots, desperately trying to get connection on their cell phones.

They uncovered giant swaths of communities –mostly in the underserved populations who work in the mushroom industry – who had no home computer, and if they did, their children would have to juggle for access to it.

They discovered that there are certain cross-sections of the population for whom digital literacy is a complete oxymoron, which kept them in the complete dark of being able to pay bills, communicate with healthcare professionals, or even communicate with their loved ones via Zoom during COVID-19.

Through the help of a $200,000 grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Labor, the Coalition helped create a broadband assessment study of the entire region. They enlisted the assistance of local organizations, school districts and businesses in its Digital Literacy Project training program, in order to provide computer literacy classes, with a focus on cyber security, e-mail, Zoom, and various apps and web connections.

For the past two years, the grass-roots work of the Southern Chester County Digital Equity Coalition and their many area partners has helped to address the wide-spread dilemma that continues to divide the county into haves and have-nots. * * * *

If there is one flagrant misgiving in all of this grassroots commitment, it is that right now, in the halls of Chester County government, a department or commission to address these crucial issues of high-speed internet access and digital literacy for the entirety of Chester County and its schools, its homes and its businesses -- does not exist.

Let this truly sink in: In the richest county in Pennsylvania -- in a county whose three Commissioners consistently praise it for its innovations and accomplishments – in a county where it is seemingly always Morning in America – Chester County government has blindly turned its back to the crucial necessity of exploring all methods of connecting all of its citizens to the world and to each other.

This newspaper encourages the Chester County Commissioners and leaders across the county to create a dedicated department – perhaps tied to economic development or education – that will lock a long-term county plan for internet connectivity into place. This department or coalition would be charged with the responsibility of holding internet services providers accountable for broadening their communications reach to the more rural communities and municipalities in the county; for overseeing the expansion of communications infrastructure; for working with school districts throughout the entire county to develop ideas that will connect every student to the online information and access her or she needs to succeed; for developing entire educational networks that provide training in digital literacy; and for creating an across-the-board consortium of experts in the fields of technology, education, business and economic development.

It is both the experience and sensibility of this newspaper to know that while this directive will be read by those who believe in the strength of its possibility, it knows all too well that there will be those in county seats of influence who will scoff at the enormous cost of making such a department or coalition a reality in Chester County.

To them, we simply respond that they need to consider the cost of continuing to do nothing.

Oxford Educational Foundation marks National Mentoring Month

January is National Mentoring Month. Since 1995, the Oxford Educational Foundation has been operating a mentoring program, placing hundreds of mentors in the Oxford schools. Mentors are meeting with their students with the expectation of developing an ongoing relationship that is positive and caring.

“Research shows that mentoring is linked to improved academic, social, and economic prospects for young people, and that ultimately strengthens our community,” said Dr. Raymond A, Fischer,

the Oxford Educational Foundation executive director.

Mentors can play a powerful role in providing young people with the tools to make responsible decisions and to stay focused and engaged in school.

The program’s impact on individual students can be noticed in the child’s increased school attendance and academic success, decreased discipline referrals, and improvements in social skills. It positively affects the lives of the mentors, as well. Mentors have reported a sense of satis-

faction in recognizing that they can make a difference. Although the program is not a cure-all for the needs and challenges of today’s youth, it can provide a meaningful, positive relationship in the life of a child who otherwise may receive very little encouragement. These children need to know there is someone to whom they can turn not only when they have a problem, but also to share a success.

If you know of anyone who could give an hour or two a week to serve as a mentor, please contact Oxford Educational

Foundation’s volunteer coordinator, Kim Lewin at coordinator@oxfordeducationalfoundation.org or Dr. Ray Fischer, the organization’s executive director, at rfischer@oxfordeducationalfoundation.org.

Chester County Commissioners declare January as Human Trafficking Awareness and Prevention Month

Blue Light Shines on Historic Courthouse as a Reminder

Chester County Commissioners Marian Moskowitz, Josh Maxwell, and Michelle Kichline proclaimed January as Human Trafficking Awareness and Prevention Month at the first public Commissioners’ meeting in 2023. The proclamation acknowledges the dedicated work of social service agencies, counselors, law enforcement, and modern-day abolitionists for caring for survivors, arresting and prosecuting offenders, and preventing new victims.

Also recognized in the proclamation are the Chester County AntiHuman Trafficking Coalition, Thistle Hills, and JusticeRain, organizations that support survivors transitioning from exploitation and bondage to freedom and self-sufficiency.

The Commissioners said, “Proclaiming January as Human Trafficking Awareness and Prevention Month and shining a blue light on the Historic Courthouse are reminders to us all to remain vigilant in protecting the most vulnerable in our community. “Too often, they become victims of this atrocious crime and endure unfath-

omable injustices to their bodies and minds. It is our duty to raise awareness.”

Chester County Sheriff Fredda Maddox and Carol Metzker, community outreach for the Chester County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) and an ally for human trafficking survivors, presented each Commissioner with a blue lapel pin to help spotlight the issue.

Metzker told the Commissioners, “The little blue ribbon speaks out against a big issue – human trafficking. When our community rises to fight it, we put a stop to traffickers and the trauma that hurts all of us.”

“Working against human trafficking is everyone’s business in Chester County,” said Maddox. “If you encounter a situation that doesn’t feel right, report it to law enforcement or the National Human Trafficking Hotline.”

Last year the CCSO hosted an educational program about human trafficking prevention. It also partnered with the Chester County Library system to post the National Human Trafficking Hotline numbers in library bathrooms throughout the county.

District Attorney Deb

Ryan said, “In 2020, Chester County saw one of the worst cases ever of human trafficking involving two young victims who were held against their will and forced to have sex for money. Residents were shocked that it took place in their community. But that’s one of the tragic facts of human trafficking – how it seemingly happens under the radar and victimizes vulnerable individuals.

“My office got justice for both victims last year by sending the three defendants – Dimas Omar Hernandez, Franklin Rivera-Mendieta,

“Chester County will never stand for human trafficking. We will vigorously investigate, arrest, and prosecute anyone who traffics another human being and, by doing so, rescue victims.”

The National Human Trafficking Hotline is available 24/7. Call 1-888373-7888 or text 233733.

and Josue Sibrian-Sanchez – to prison for lengthy periods of time. The victims’ lives are changed forever, but the sentences allow them to begin to move forward.

Courtesy photo

The Chester County Historic Courthouse was cast in blue light from Jan. 9 to 16 to recognize Human Trafficking Awareness and Prevention Month.

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In the Spotlight

Kennett Winterfest 2023 tickets now on sale

Kennett Winterfest 2023 will feature old favorites, new breweries, and winter-warming spirit.

The eleventh annual Kennett Winterfest will return to 600 S. Broad Street in Kennett Square on Saturday, Feb. 25.

Ticket holders will have the opportunity to sample a wide range of beers from over 60 of the region’s finest breweries. Winterfest is one of the area’s premier craft brew events, and will also feature live music with Dylan Zangwill, food trucks, and plenty of warm community spirit.

In keeping with Kennett Winterfest’s commitment to celebrating the best new and established brewers, many regular favorites will be returning to this year’s festival—along with some exciting first-time participants. Breweries who will be pouring their best for the first time at Winterfest this year include 1937 Brewing Company, Cartesian Brewing, Farmers and Bankers Brewing, Rural City Brewing, and Succession Fermentory.

Kennett Winterfest is traditionally a sell-out event, and the coveted Def Conn pre-festival tasting event with Wilmington Brew Works, winners of the Best of Connoisseur at the 2022 Kennett Brewfest, sold out in minutes. But a limited number of regular session

tickets are still available.

“The unique experience of tasting beers, cider, and mead outdoors in the winter is part of what makes Kennett Winterfest special,” said Jeff Norman, a local architect and festival organizer.

The 2023 Kennett Winterfest will also fea-

ture a number of breweries involved in Ales for ALS, a cause near and dear to Norman’s heart. His sister, who suffered from ALS, passed away the evening after last year’s Winterfest.

“I promised her I would try and help others with ALS, and when I found out about Ales for ALS,

it seemed like the perfect way to honor her memory,” he said.

When he discovered that only six breweries in Pennsylvania, Delaware, and New Jersey were involved, he began asking breweries to participate in the 2023 program.

“To date we have over

Kennett falls to Perkiomen

By Richard L. Gaw Staff Writer

It is often said that even in the broadest of mismatched opponents, there is still a game that needs to be played, because on any given day, anything can happen.

So at noon this past Saturday, the 3-4 Kennett women’s basketball team tipped off against 12-1 Perkiomen Valley in a non-league tilt at Reynolds Gymnasium in Kennett Square, with the possible chance to upset the visiting Vikings, who were coming off their only defeat of the season the night before, a 56-44 loss to Spring-Ford.

Unfortunately for the Blue Demons, it wasn’t the day when anything would happen.

Behind a 14-point, first-half effort by Quinn Boettinger and a shutdown defense, Perkiomen Valley cruised to a 56-28 victory, in a game that saw the Vikings burst out with 18 points in the first quarter while holding the Blue Demons to just 4 points.

Combining a tough man-to-man defense with sharp perimeter passing and accurate shooting, Perkiomen Valley quickly proved why they are a powerhouse in the Pioneer League this season. Two early three-pointers by Bella Bacani and Julia Smith staked the Vikings to an early 6-0 lead that was quickly followed by a layup by Boettinger.

The Blue Demons did not get on the scoreboard until Makayala Kelly’s two free-throws with 5:32 left in the quarter, and began the second quarter down 18-4.

Boettinger, who was entering the game with a 14.9 points-per-game average, unleashed a 9-point effort in the second quarter that was complimented by three-pointers by Smith and Ella Stein en route to a 22-point quarter and a 40-13 halftime lead.

Despite the loss, a positive light shone on Kelly,

who continued to battle her way through a virtually impenetrable Viking defense to score 23 of her team’s 28 points on layups, free throws and four three-pointers to lead all scorers. Boettinger, who was rested in the second half, led Perkiomen Valley with 14 points, followed by Lena Stein with 9 points.

Now 13-1 overall, Perkiomen Valley faced Methacton on Jan. 17 and will travel to Pottstown. The Blue Demons, who fell to 3-5 overall, looked

20 breweries committed— and counting. This puts our region as the second or third highest in terms of participating breweries,” Norman said.

Winterfest ticket buyers support two great causes this year. In addition to support for ALS from participating breweries, all

proceeds from Kennet t Winterfest suppor t Kennett Collaborative, the nonprofit that works to make Kennett thrive by creating programs and events that help Kennett become a more beautiful and welcoming community where all can belong and prosper.

Valley, 56-28

To

Photo courtesy Dylan Francis

Tickets are now on sale for the eleventh annual Kennett Winterfest.

Makayla Kelly scores 23 points in Blue Demon loss

Blue Demon Makayla Kelly led all scorers with 23 points.

Photos by Richard L. Gaw

Behind effective shooting and a tight defense, Perkiomen Valley cruised to a 56-28 non-conference win over Kennett on Jan. 14.

Kennett’s Quinn Simmons defends against the Vikings’ Bella Bacani in third quarter action.

to get back on rack with a Jan. 17 home game against Great Valley on Jan. 19,

and will travel to Oxford for a game against the Hornets on Jan. 19.

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

FRANCES IRENE MOSIER

Frances Irene Mosier, a resident of Landenberg, passed away peacefully at her home on Dec. 27, 2022. She was 91.

Frances was the wife of the late James H. Mosier, Sr., with whom she shared 68 years of marriage prior to his passing in 2016.

Born in 1931 in Mountain City, Tenn., Frances was the daughter of the late Manuel Franklin Combs and the late Clora Jane Parsons.

Throughout her life, Frances worked at Chatham Acres, the Conard-Pyle Rose Company and the Atglen Toy Factory.

She was not only a talented cook, she was also an unbelievable gardener. She enjoyed country music and collecting ceramic pigs, of which she had hundreds.

Frances was a very special person who was full of unconditional love that was felt by everyone she met. Her presence could light up any room. She was outspoken, candid and you could always count on her honesty. She had a wonderful sense of humor and loved to laugh. Yet, what Frances treasured above all else was

her family. Frances’ whole world revolved around her grandchildren and she loved them very much. Frances will be greatly missed by all who had the pleasure to know her.

Frances is survived by her son, James H. Mosier, Jr. (Ada) of Gap, Pa. and daughters, Sandy Couch (Bob) of Landenberg and Kathryn Waltman of Ronks, Pa.

She is also survived by her sisters, Emogene Swift of Mountain City, Tenn. and Josephine Davis of Gaston, SC; 10 grandchildren, James C. Mosier, David Michael Dillard, Jr. (Irina), Christina Palmer, Keith Mosier, Dyanna Taylor (John), S. Robert Couch, Jr. (Kim), Bradley A. Couch (Shanna), Samantha Couch (Andrew), Ashley Walton (Rob) and John Mosier; 20 great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren, as well as nieces and nephews.

A viewing was held on Jan. 4 at Foulk Funeral Home in West Grove.

Interment will follow at New London Presbyterian Cemetery.

Arrangements are being handled by Foulk Funeral Home of West Grove. To view her online tribute, visit www.kuzoandfoulkfh.com.

DAVID MICHAEL DILLARD, SR.

David Michael Dillard, Sr., a husband, father, grandfather, son, brother, uncle, and friend to many, passed away on Dec. 24, 2022 at the age of 71.

He was born in West Jefferson, N.C. and raised his family in Lincoln University. Although his name was David, he went by Mike and some of his music friends knew him by his nickname, Turkey Red.

Mike is the son of the late Betty Dillard Blevins. He had three siblings, all deceased, Mitchie Marie Deal (Pat), Ricky Blevins, and Dale Blevins. He had one nephew, deceased, Matthew Deal. He has one niece, Donna Travis.

He is survived by his wife, Judith Dillard, of Lincoln University. He has two children, Jennifer Ankney and her husband Jerry Ankney of Hermitage, Tenn., and Jeffrey Dillard of Lincoln University. He has two grandchildren, Jerry Jr. and Jamie Ankney.

Mike worked at Worthy Construction Company in Delaware for many years. He also worked for the Borough of Kennett. Most recently, he worked for Octoraro Native Plant Nursery in Kirkwood, Pa. He enjoyed being outdoors.

Psalm 9:9-10

Mike was most known for his love of music. He took a lot of pride in his music collection. He loved all genres of music, but his favorite was bluegrass music. He played in several bluegrass bands during his lifetime, including The Wings of Bluegrass, Plain and Fancy, The Stanleytones, The Mike Dillard Band, and The Blades of Grass. He was a great songwriter. Mike inspired the love of bluegrass in both of his children and was very proud of his grandson Jerry Jr. for his love of music.

He loved his children and grandchildren, and he will be missed.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

Arrangements are being handled by the Edward L. Collins, Jr. Funeral Home, Inc. in Oxford. Online condolences may be made at www.elcollinsfuneralhome.com.

The Lord is a refuge for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble.

Obituaries

ALVARO GARCIA BOTELLO

Alvaro Garcia Botello, age 51, of Kennett Square, passed away at his residence on Jan. 8, 2023.

Born in Yuriria, GTO, Mexico, he was the son of Alfredo Garcia Perez and Maria Luisa Botello Rodriguez of Mexico.

Alvaro was a member of St. Rocco Catholic Church in Avondale.

He was employed at Giorgio Mushrooms in Toughkenamon.

Alvaro enjoyed soccer on TV, going on car rides and he especially enjoyed being with his family and friends.

GEORGE WILLIAM ELLER, JR.

George William “Bill” Eller, Jr., of Nottingham, died peacefully after a short illness on Jan. 5, 2023. He was 85.

Bill was born on July 10, 1937, in Drumore Township, Pa., the son of the late George and Genevieve Eller. He is survived by his wife, Mary Lou (Brinton) Eller; four children, Donnie (and his wife, Dorothy) Barbara (and her husband, Bill Gehrlein), Tommy (and his wife Tracie), and Sandy (and her husband Ed Costello). He is also survived by 13 grandchildren, six step-grandchildren, 32 great-grandchildren, 11 brothers and sisters, and many nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, John.

Bill graduated from Rising Sun High School in 1955. He was a veteran of the U.S. Army National Guard, where he served for three years. In 2001, he retired from a long career at Penn Fuel Gas and, with his beloved wife, Mary Lou, traveled extensively, ultimately visiting all 50 states.

Bill loved his family and was especially devoted to his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He inspired in his family a love of his favorite outdoor activities including traveling, fishing, camping, hiking, snowmobiling, skiing, and playing golf. He had an extensive knowledge of how to fix anything, and he enjoyed using that knowledge to help his family whenever he had the opportunity.

Bill’s life was a reflection of his faith in Jesus all the way until the end. He was a member of Auburn Regular Baptist Church. He also served as a deacon for his church and as Secretary of the Mountain Union Baptist Association.

The funeral service was held on Jan. 10 at Nottingham Missionary Baptist Church.

Arrangements are being handled by the Edward L. Collins, Jr. Funeral Home, Inc. in Oxford. Online condolences may be made at www.elcollinsfuneralhome.com.

In addition to his parents, he is survived by four brothers, Jose Luis Garcia (Betty) of Kennett Square, Miguel Garcia (Patricia) of Mexico, Lorenzo Garcia (Maricela) of Oxford and Alfredo Garcia (Virginia) of Mexico; three sisters, Leticia Quintino (Jose) of Kennett Square, Herlinda Garcia of Mexico and Maria Torres (Julio) of Florida, nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews.

You are invited to visit with his family and friends from 5 to 6: 30 p.m. on Jan. 18 at St. Rocco Catholic Church, 313 Sunny Dell Road in Avondale. His funeral mass will follow at 6:30 p.m. Burial will be in Mexico.

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

MARIAN

(SZYMANSKI) PITTS

Marian Szymanski Pitts, a.k.a GiGi or Sissy, peacefully passed away at Brinton Manor Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Glen Mills, Pa. on January 7, 2023.

She was an 89-year-old resident of West Grove.

She was the wife of the late Albert S. Pitts, with whom she shared 63 years of marriage.

Born in Philadelphia, she was the daughter of the late James and Catherine Szymanski.

Marian was the consummate homemaker, raising four children of her own and doting over 13 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren. She was also tasked with keeping her energetic and entrepreneurial husband in check.

Survivors include one daughter, Christine Broderick and her husband Daniel of Glen Mills, Pa.; three sons, James Pitts and his wife Debra of West Chester; Thomas Pitts and his wife Loretta of Rio Grande, N.J.; and Kenneth Pitts and his wife Brenda of New London.

Marian is also survived by thirteen grandchildren, Michael, Matthew, Lindsay, Julie, Jennifer, Jacqueline, Tracey, Marc, Nicole, Zachary, Kyle, Annie, and Jake and 16 great-grandchildren, Lily, Ethan, Desmond, Nolan, Luna, Henry, Sagan, Evan, Lucy, Harper, Leah, Naomi, Luke, Molly, Marco, and Isabella.

A memorial service was held at the Episcopal Church of the Advent in Kennett Square on Jan. 16.

Interment will be held privately.

Contributions in her memory may be made to S.I.L.O https://oxfordsilo.com/get-involved/donate.

Arrangements are being handled by Matthew Grieco of Grieco Funeral Home & Crematory, Inc. (484-734-8100).

To view the online obituary, please visit www.griecofunerals.com.

SARAH B. WOLFF

Sarah B. Wolff, a resident of Kendal at Longwood in Kennett Square, died on Jan. 2, 2023. She was 98.

She was born in Philadelphia on Nov. 22, 1924, to Walter J. and Christine Spofford Beadle.

She graduated from Germantown Friends School before moving to Wilmington and then graduating from Vassar College.

While raising her family she did volunteer work as a member of the Junior League of Wilmington and served on the boards of Travelers Aid and Family Service of Northern Delaware. In addition, she sang in the chorus for many productions of the Wilmington Opera Society (now OperaDelaware).

She was a member of the National Society of the Colonial Dames in the State of Delaware and a former member of the Greenville Country Club. She was one of the original members of St. Albans Episcopal Church, where she sang in the choir for many years before joining the Episcopal Church of the Advent in Kennett Square.

Sally was predeceased by her husband Frederick A. Wolff in 1994, sister Elizabeth Beadle Herrmann, brother Spofford J. Beadle, and great-grandchild Aryana Wolff. She is survived by her son and daughter-in-law, Thomas B. and Audrey Wolff of Red Wing, Minn., and her daughter Catherine E. Wolff of Syracuse, N.Y. She is also survived by three grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren.

The family is grateful for the loving care provided by the staff at Kendal, especially in the last week of her life.

A memorial service will be held on Jan. 20 at Kendal at Longwood in Kennett Square.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Kendal Reserve Fund, P.O. Box 100, Kennett Square, Pa. 19348.

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

Obituary submissions

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

Grant approved to fund township’s acquisition of Crebilly Farm

State Rep. Craig Williams (R-Delaware/Chester) announced that Westtown Township has been awarded $4 million toward the acquisition of Crebilly Farm by the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR).

“Preservation of open space in our communities is one of my top priorities.

In November, the residents of Westtown Township overwhelmingly voted to

ESTATE NOTICE

ESTATE OF Elizabeth L. McDowell, aka Elizabeth Ann Lysle McDowell late of New London Township, Chester County, Deceased. Letters Testamentary on the estate of the above named Elizabeth L. McDowell having been granted to the undersigned, all persons having claims or demands against the estate of the said decedent are requested to make known the same and all persons indebted to the said decedent to make payment without delay to: Linda M. Gigliotti, Co-Executor, Margaret E. Chilla, Co-Executor, c/o Attorney: Winifred Moran Sebastian, Esquire, Address: 208 E. Locust St., P.O. Box 381, Oxford, PA 19363 Phone: 610-932-3838

1p-11-3t

ESTATE NOTICE

Estate of Valentina S. Hosking, Late of Coatesville, Chester County, PA, LETTERS TESTAMENTARY on the above Estate have been granted to the undersigned, who request all persons having claims or demands against the estate of the

purchase Crebilly Farm through local tax increases to halt development on this historically significant property,” Williams said. “I promised Westtown residents I would pursue every possible offset to their local tax increases. This grant announced by DCNR –when combined with the $2 million grant from last September – addresses $6 million of the almost $16 million needed to save the property.”

decedent to make known the same and all persons indebted to the decedent to make payment without delay to Patricia Leigh Pressman, Executrix, 222 Upland Way, Wayne, PA 19087 Or Attorney: Richard B. Pressman, Esquire, 1135 Spruce Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107.

NOTICE

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OXFORD BOROUGH RESIDENTS

Oxford Borough Council Meetings for 2023 will be held on the following dates. All meetings will be held on Monday evening at 7 p.m. January 23 February 13 & 27 March 6 & 20 April 3 & 17 May 1 & 15 June 5 July 17

August 21 September 11 & 25 October 2 & 16 November 6 & 20 December 4 & 18

Planning Commission Meetings will be held on the fourth Tuesday at 6:30 p.m.

HARB meetings will be held on an as needed basis on the 2nd Wednesday of the month at 4 p.m.

The Police and Public Safety Committee Meetings will be held the first Wednesday of the month at 4:00 p.m.

The grant will acquire the Crebilly Farm - 206 acres of open land - and preserve it as a new township park. The new park will also connect local trail systems that run through the Greater Philadelphia area.

The Crebilly Farm property is the centerpiece of the 400-acre Brandywine Battlefield. Other municipalities in the district have worked hard on preserving space around the battlefield, including partnering

with private organizations.

Supported by federal dollars, DCNR was allocated money from the Land and Water Conservation Fund established by Congress in 1964. These grant dollars safeguard natural areas, water resources and cultural heritage.

“The unfortunate reality is that our portions of Chester and Delaware counties will always be under pressure to overbuild. It creates burdens

Legals

The Finance Committee will hold four meetings in 2023, on April 11, July 11, October 10 and October 31 at 2:00 p.m.

The Water Resource Protection Committee Meetings will be held on February 6, March 6, April 3, May 1, June 5, July 17, August 21, September 11, October 2, November 9th and December 4th at 6:00 p.m.

The Committee to explore an Advisory Commission on Latino Affairs (ACOLA) for the Borough will be held on the third Monday of the month, before the scheduled Council meeting at 6:00 pm.

All meetings will be held at Borough Hall, 1 Octoraro Alley, Oxford, PA.

If you are a person with a disability wishing to attend the aforementioned meeting and require auxiliary aid, service, or other accommodations to observe or participate in the proceedings, please contact the Borough Manager at 610932-2500 to discuss how your needs may be best accommodated.

By: Pauline Garcia-Alien Borough Manager 1p-18-1t

NOTICE OF DISSOLUTION

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that ROY S. KOLB SONS, LLC, a Pennsylvania limited liability company, has voluntarily dissolved and is now engaged in the process of winding up and settling its affairs under the provisions of Subchapter G (15 Pa. C.S. §8871 et seq.) of the Pennsylvania Uniform Limited Liability Company Act of 2016, as amended. As part of that process, under 15 Pa. C.S. 8875, ROY S. KOLB SONS, LLC now gives notice that any persons having claims against ROY S. KOLB SONS, LLC present them in a detailed writing to the Company, setting for the amount and exact basis for the claim. The written notice describing the details of the claim shall be mailed to ROY S. KOLB SONS, LLC, 297 Baptist Church Road, Spring City, PA 19475.

A claim against ROY S. KOLB SONS, LLC is barred unless an action to enforce the claim is commenced within two years after publication of this Notice.

LEGACY LAW PLLC, Attorneys for Roy S. Kolb Sons, LLC 1p-18-1t

PUBLIC NOTICE

The London Grove Township Zoning Hearing Board will conduct a public hearing on, Tuesday, February 7, 2023 at 7:00 p.m., in the London Grove Township Building, 372 Rose Hill Road, West Grove, PA for the following purpose: 3 Sullivan Chase Drive- To hear the appeal of Sullivan Station

all around, including on our traffic, our schools, our municipal services and our public safety, among others. It also diminishes the historic draw of our region,” Williams said. “I learned early in my Marine Corps career to refuse binary thinking about solving problems. I believe we may continue to preserve open space by leveraging a host of programs and ideas (like the federal dollars available in

HOA for a variance to place an entryway sign within the easement located on the corner of Garden Station Road and Sullivan Chase Drive. 27-2210. This property is in the Rural Residential (RR) District. William Grandizio, Chairman, Zoning Hearing Board 1p-18-2t

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this instance). Rather than a binary choice, it becomes a problem-solving moment for us all.”

Williams is a retired United States Marine Corps Colonel, a combat veteran decorated for his service under fire and a former federal prosecutor with the United States Department of Justice. He and his wife, Jennifer, have four children who are or were students in the Garnet Valley School District.

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