Chester County Press 02-08-2023 Edition

Board adopts revised Kennett Township zoning code and map

By Richard L. Gaw Staff

Writer

By a unanimous 3-0 vote, the Kennett Township Board of Supervisors adopted the township’s revised township zoning code and map, which was presented at its Feb. 1 meeting.

The upgraded codes and map has been re-developed over the past five years

by the Chester County Planning Commission, the Kennett Township Planning Commission, township supervisors, consultants and members of the township’s zoning update task force. It was discussed in a public hearing presented by Diane Hicks, the township’s zoning and codes officer, and Jeannine Speirs, senior community planner for the

Chester County Planning Commission.

“The current zoning code was last updated 15 years ago,” Hicks told the board.

“The task force was charged with cleaning up internal inconsistencies, examining incompatibilities with other codes, folding in past amendments and providing new and changing uses related to the county’s comprehensive plan policy.”

Privately held 505-acre Granogue to be preserved

Longwood Gardens to acquire du Pont estate

By Richard L. Gaw Staff Writer

For those residents of

Hicks said that the updated map shows how the township is divided into zoning districts such as residential, commercial, industrial, institutional and agricultural, and two new districts designated as cultural conservation. It also includes borders for each district, zoning rules and land uses for each district, land uses, yard and setback provisions, and a series of

procedures for administering the zoning ordinance.

“The update is in line with the [county’s] comprehensive plan, in that it continues to promote and preserve our agricultural, historic, natural and open space [districts],” Hicks added. “The update also encourages the support of our tax base – ratables for industrial and commercial uses -- which help to off-

set residential fees, that is based on the township’s economic development study.”

Major components that factored into the updated zoning code involved determining uses, definitions and standards for and of cultural conservation districts, limited industrial and specialized agriculture, preservation and adaptive reuse of historic

Continued on Page 4A

Penn Township makes preparations for constructing emergency operations center

By Marcella Peyre-Ferry Staff

Writer

Penn Township is moving forward on a plan to merge deeds on the lot at 963 W. Baltimore Pike with the adjoining township-owned property. This will legally create a larger lot for the construction of a new building that will permanently house Medic 94 and provide space for an emergency operations center at the corner of West Baltimore Pike and Jenners Pond Road.

The facility will be constructed using $850,0000 in federal American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds distributed through a county grant process. Designated for this purpose a requirement of the funding is that this money must be spent by June 2024.

The township has received over $4.8 million in a variety of grants for many projects including transportation projects, infrastructure improvements, updating the

township comprehensive plan and construction and improvements at the township sports park.

The board gave approval to seek a Chester County Open Space Grant of up to $250,000 for playing fields in phase three of the development of the sports park. This county grant would require the township to provide a matching amount of funding for the project.

The township also has money from the two payments of ARPA funds

distributed to all municipalities in 2021 and 2022. At this point, there are not finalized plans on how that money will be used.

The board voted to direct the Avon Grove School District to proceed with the process to dedicate a narrow strip of property on the west side of Sunnyside Road to the township. The land is at a section where the road was widened as a part of the construction of the new high school campus. With the dedication of this strip,

the entire width of the road will be covered.

The board has not taken any position on Vineyard Road or Waltman Way.

The board also heard neighbors’ complaints about trash being tossed from cars along Waltman Way and other streets around the new high school. The board is aware of the problem and encourages residents to contact the school principal with their concerns so that school’s custodial staff can address the cleanup.

Oxford Borough honored with statewide Beautification Award

By Betsy Brewer Brantner

Contributing Writer

State Sen. Carolyn Comitta recently presented Oxford Borough officials with the Community Pride Award from Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful. Comitta nominated the borough for the honor for creating a native plant garden adjacent to its new parking garage and its overall community beautification and greening efforts.

“As a former mayor, I know just how important downtown beautification can be in supporting revitalization,” Comitta said.

“It drives business and sales, encourages tourism, enhances community engagement, promotes private investment, benefits the environment, and adds personality, highlighting the character of your community. I want to thank all of the staff and volunteers who take pride in their hometowns and are working to keep Oxford and

Pennsylvania beautiful.”

The Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful Community Pride Award recognizes outstanding environmental stewardship by an individual, school, community organization, or civic group that makes a commitment to litter control, recycling, or general beautification.

Photo by Richard L. Gaw Kennett High School senior Connor Tuk signed a letter of intent on Feb. 1 to attend the United States Military Academy this fall, where he will play football for the West Point Cadets. Pictured with Connor, from left to right, are Kennett’s head football coach Lance Frazier; Connor’s father, Bryan; and Kennett High School principal Lorenzo DeAngelis. Connor was one of two

play football. For

Photo by Jie Deng Longwood Gardens and The Conservation Fund have entered

known as the Granogue

president Kathryn Cloyd said, “I am so grateful to Senator Comitta for nominating us and for the work of the Oxford Area Environmental Advisory Council (EAC).

“Our EAC chair David Ross is with us today, as is EAC and Borough Council member Bob Ketcham. Our work could not have happened without the partnerships engendered by the EAC, including our partnerships with the Penn State Extension Master Watershed Stewards and Master Gardeners (the regional coordinator for that program, Meghan HopkinsDoerr is also here with us today. She not only coordinated, she helped with all the dirty work.”

Cloyd added, “Many thanks as well to our partners at the Alliance for the Chesapeake Bay and the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society. The Trust provided trees for our riparian buffers free of charge, and the Horticultural Society has worked with us to provide street trees for our downtown and the Park. I’d also like to recognize our intrep-

id Public Works staff for their assistance with watering and composting to give our young gardens a good start. None of these projects could have been completed without our volunteers.

“Many volunteers came out numerous times, in sometimes very inclement weather to help shovel, rake, plant and weed. Our rain barrel program has provided almost 90 barrels to help residents save money on their water bills while helping reduce stormwater runoff. Thank you to the Dockstader Foundation for providing a grant for the purchase of the barrels and again to the Master Watershed Stewards for providing training on how to install and use the barrels, “ Cloyd added. Oxford Mainstreet Inc.

(OMI) Executive Director Brian Dix said the organization’s annual downtown beautification efforts begin each March with spring plantings of seasonal flowers in 16 large pots and about 20 hanging baskets throughout the downtown. He said efforts to maintain the plantings and beautify the downtown are supported throughout the year by local business owners, volunteer organizations, and

student groups from Oxford Area High School.

“OMI is honored to be a small piece of the puzzle that makes Oxford the special place it is. Seeing the borough receive this prestigious award is a testament to the fruitful partnerships our community continues to forge and enjoy,” Dix said.

Mike Means, a social studies teacher and head football coach at Oxford Area High School, said the team implemented a downtown community cleanup day during its preseason workout schedule each summer.

“It’s part of bridging the gap between the athletics program and the community by getting our kids involved in as much as we can in Oxford. It’s something that the team likes to do and we enjoy being able to do it for the community,” he said.

According to Carrie Conwell, the Keep Chester County Beautiful coordinator and senior environmental planner with the Chester County Planning Commission, Chester County is the statewide organization’s 28th affiliate.

Since 1990, thousands of Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful volunteers have collected more than 152 million pounds of trash from roadways, waterways, greenways, and forests.

“Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful congratulates and commends Oxford Borough for its community improvement initiatives. Clean and beautiful communities are the foundation for community and economic development and we are grateful for the many vol-

unteers who give freely of their time to steward their communities. We encourage all public officials to

recognize the noble and necessary work and the special people who coordinate local programs to keep

our communities clean and beautiful,” said Shannon Reiter, president of Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful.

Anti-Human Trafficking meeting in Oxford this Saturday

Attorney John V. Rafferty will update the community on recent human trafficking violations in the area on Saturday, Feb. 11 at 9:30 a.m., at ACE (Advocating, Collaborating, Educating) Anti-Human Trafficking Alliance of Oxford. ACE will meet at the Oxford Senior Center, 12 E. Locust St., Oxford. Due to the tri-demic, refreshments will not be served. Masks are not required but will be available. Questions may be directed to 610-932-0337.

Oxford Area School Superintendent David Woods stands with some members of the Oxford football team, head coach Mike Means (back row) and Oxford Borough Council president Kathryn Cloyd and State Sen. Carolyn Comitta during the presentation of the Community Pride Award from Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful. Under the guidance of Coach Means, the Oxford football team does many community projects that keep the Borough of Oxford beautiful.

Courtesy photos

The Public Works Department is shown with borough manager Pauline GarciaAllen, borough council president Kathryn Cloyd and State Sen. Carolyn Comitta.

Avon Grove Esports team wins Pa. State Rocket League Championship

The Avon Grove Red Devils Esports team recently won the 2022 Pa. State Championship for Rocket League, surpassing more than 140 teams and going undefeated for the entire 2022 season.

Avon Grove team members Liam Breslin, Daniel Ciccone and Charles Nattress, along with their coach, Ronald (RJ) Pizzini, traveled to Pittsburgh on Dec. 17, 2022, for the final two matches of the postseason — unseating the two-year reigning champion, North Catholic High School, to take home the win.

In addition to the trophy that will be placed in the

Longwood Gardens...

Avon Grove High School trophy cabinet, the team won $1,250 for their esports club and all three players received scholarship offers to Robert Morris University. Nattress, the team captain, was also awarded an additional monetary award for being the MVP of the final match.

Coach Pizzini watched the Red Devils accomplish great goals this season. “It was really rewarding to see all of the players’ hard work from throughout the season pay off. It is beyond cool to see the growth of esports in Pennsylvania and across the country. We’re hoping that we have more and more opportunities to compete

with a commitment that Granogue would remain a pastoral cultural landscape.

against other schools as esports continues to grow,” Pizzini said.

Coach Pizzini added, “An increasing number of universities are offering esports scholarships, and our students have very real pathways to pursue video games as a career.”

During the competition, students in attendance had the opportunity to learn about career options in the broader industry of gaming and esports and were also able to connect with various organizations that support esports.

The Avon Grove Red Devils esports team has been invited to Harrisburg to be recognized by the

Pennsylvania Senate. An “esports day” is currently being planned and the Avon Grove esports team will be heading there to be recognized on that special day.

To learn more about Avon Grove High School’s activities and clubs, visit: https://www.avongrove. org/schools/high-school/ hs-activities-clubs.

they recently became the recipients of a gift from Longwood Gardens that will be enjoyed in perpetuity.

Longwood Gardens and The Conservation Fund have entered into an agreement with Granogue Reserve, LTD., LLC (GRLLC) to acquire the 505-acre property known as the Granogue Estate, a transaction that will include all land and buildings.

The home was originally built in 1923 and served as the long-time residence of Irénée du Pont, Jr. -- an engineering executive and heir to the chemical company fortune who died on Jan. 16, 2023 -- and his wife, Barbara, who died on April 27, 2021.

While the financial details of the sale have not been made public, the acquisition was funded in part by the Longwood Foundation and the Mt. Cuba Center, a Delaware botanical garden incorporated in 1989 by Lammot du Pont Copeland.

“Longwood Gardens is honored to play a part in the preservation of Granogue,” said Paul B. Redman, president and CEO of Longwood Gardens. “We understand the important role this iconic landscape plays in our region’s ecology, community, and quality of life, and we look forward to working with our partners to ensure this treasure is stewarded for future generations to enjoy.”

Located in the Brandywine River Corridor of northern Delaware near the Pennsylvania border, Granogue provides one of the most breathtaking vistas in the entire region and remains one of the last unprotected open spaces in the area. The property contains acres of farmland, forest, pastures, meadows and stone water towers, and with Longwood’s purchase, it will form a significant component of conservation efforts in the region.

Negotiations that ultimately led to the sale of the estate first began in 2016, when GRLLC began discussions with Longwood Gardens and The Conservation Fund about the future of the property. It was followed by a preliminary study that provided an assessment of site conditions, and a master plan for the site was developed in 2018-19,

“We are proud to play a role in preserving this ecologically vital parcel of the Brandywine River Corridor and ensuring it remains a pastoral jewel for the Brandywine Valley region to enjoy,” said Blaine T. Phillips, senior vice president of The Conservation Fund.

Continuing a long legacy of philanthropic leadership, du Pont family members and related cultural institutions have joined the effort to advance the collective vision for Granogue. In addition, du Pont family members have generously contributed funds to establish a permanent endowment for future operations and advancement of the vision for Granogue.

While Longwood Gardens has earned worldwide acclaim for its illustrious gardens and a solid reputation as a leader

will

Continued from Page 1A in horticultural education, it counts conservation as one of its key assets and missions. Its conservation efforts focus on the areas of conservation horticulture; land stewardship and ecology; agriculture, soils and compost; and floriculture production.

“Our gardens began with Pierre S. du Pont’s act of preservation to save a 202acre arboretum that was important to the region and community,” Redman said. “Today, we are honoring the legacy of Longwood through an act of conser-

vation to protect another landscape and add another open space that is important to our region and community.”

“Preserving this beautiful land is important to our family,” said Grace Engbring, daughter of Irénée and Barbara, who

served as the family’s representative for GRLLC.

“Longwood Gardens has shown great care in stewarding our great-uncle Pierre’s former estate, and I know Longwood will ensure Granogue thrives into the future.

“My father was commit-

ted to keeping Granogue as open space to be enjoyed by many and he did this very gracefully, just as Longwood will continue to do.”

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

Courtesy photo Avon Grove Esports team members and their coach (left to right): Liam Breslin, Dan Ciccone, Charles Nattress and Coach Pizzini, accepting first-place honors at the PA Rocket League Championships.

Photos by Jie Deng

The 505-acre property, known for its rolling hills, meadows, pastures, stone water towers and stunning vistas,

be preserved as open space.

Avondale Borough receives funding to increase accessibility in public parks and playgrounds

Avondale Borough

Mayor Susan Rzucidlo

recently announced that the borough has been awarded $150,000 of funding to help improve its parks and playgrounds.

This funding came through U.S. Sen. Bob Casey and will be used to rehabilitate Avondale’s parks and playgrounds – making them more accessible for all. Currently, no parks in the borough have accessible accommodations, making this a huge step forward for positive change.

Rzucidlo described this announcement as a great achievement and a promising start for the town this year. “It is important to everyone that public places throughout the borough are inclusive and fully supportive of all who live here,” she said. “I have been working to secure funding and grants for our parks and playgrounds so that all children and adults will have easy access to our outdoor spaces. Having safe outdoor areas for our community will promote physical activity, social connection, and relaxation. I cannot wait to see this project come to fruition and to start seeing even more people use our parks.”

Rzucidlo added, “Providing accessible

access and playground is greatly needed, and this achievement will have a huge impact on our community. This is a big step

forward for our parks, for Council, and for the whole town. As part of this project, I would like to invite community members to join our

new Parks and Playground Committee to help with selecting the equipment and helping with the process. I am so proud to be part of

Kennett Township zoning...

Continued from Page 1A

resources, sustainable development and renewable energy, cell tower and small wireless communication standards, natural resources protection, open space development and various types of housing.

Hicks said that notification was recently sent to property owners whose properties were being changed to a new zoning district.

In other township business, the board authorized township manager Eden Ratliff to apply for a grant through from the county’s Municipal Grant Program with the Chester County Department of Parks and Preservation.

Ratliff said that the township will use the grant – if awarded – for the cost associated with the purchase of an open space acquisition. The

award is expected to be granted in September.

The board also approved the renewals of Mark Rybaczyk and John Gaadt as members of the Kennett Area Park Authority through Jan. 1, 2028; and the appointment of Karen Marshall to the Brandywine Valley Scenic Byway Commission through the end of 2023, replacing long-time member Tom Nale.

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

Image courtesy of Kennett Township

The Kennett Township Board of Supervisors adopted the township’s revised zoning code and map on Feb. 1, which includes rules and regulations, as well as an overview of updated zoning districts for residential, commercial, industrial, institutional, agricultural and cultural conservation.

Avondale and can’t wait to see this all come together.”

If you’d like to join the Avondale Borough Parks and Playground Committee,

please contact Sharon, the borough administrator, at Administrator@ avondaleboro.net or call 610-268-8501.

Digital Equity Coalition meeting goals for digital literacy, access

By Richard L. Gaw Staff Writer

In March of 2021, a group of 50 concerned and citizens and administrators from various sectors of the community got together in an attempt to calm the unfortunate tide of digital inequity.

Now, two years later, the work of the Southern Chester County Digital Equity Coalition continues to join all sectors of the community to address and advocate for the right to connectivity, with focus on its most underserved members in the areas of access and literacy. Since that time, supported by school administrators, elected officials and the energy of its volunteers, the Coalition has made strides to achieve these goals.

At a Zoom meeting on Feb. 2 organized by the Southern Chester County Chamber of Commerce (SCCCC) and attended by several dozen stakeholders, including Sens. John Kane and Carolyn Comitta and Rep. Christina Sappey, the members of the Coalition and their supporting agencies spelled out the details of their achievements, and the continuing and pressing

need to link the community together.

“This is what we’ve learned many times over during the pandemic – that the reliable broadband access is a basic necessity and can positively impact almost every aspect of our lives,” Comitta said. “Digital access and literacy can make the difference in a child’s education. It can make a difference in the success of a small business, in job growth and career advancement, and health and well-being via telemedicine, which grew exponentially during the pandemic, and so much more.”

From smart phone access to smart home access

Coalitio n co-founder

Jim Mercante said that the group’s key to-do list items have been to address affordability, accessibility, digital literacy and educational support throughout southern Chester County. While most are the beneficiaries of access and literacy, some belong to a subset of the population that Mercante called the “subscription vulnerable.” While some service providers have offered programs for those who need financial assistance, most of these residents – including schoolchildren -- are

forced to use their smart phones to gain digital access to their teachers and school administrators.

Another area of vulnerability for some residents has been their inability to access on-line health connections that can link them to crucial healthcare options. Further exacerbating the problem is that for some homeowners living in the more remote areas of the county, they lack the internet connections that are usually provided to them by internet providers.

“We all know that Chester County is a very wealthy county, but as everyone on this call knows, there are pockets of low-income people who live in remote areas who, just because of where they live, do not have access to the internet,” Mercante said. “We need as a community, as a state and as a country to figure out how to get the internet for all.

“More devices need to be provided to more residents in need. It is unacceptable that many people access the internet merely by their smart phone. Our goal is to take us from a smart phonecentered access to a smart home centered access, in order to eventually become a smart community and we believe that has many benefits for our community from a business, commercial, health and educational standpoint, and all of the other things that the internet can provide.”

Chester County Intermediate Unit Assistant Division Director Jessica Sahl said that affordability and accessibility continue to be the biggest hurdles. She said that a recent study was conducted throughout the county that measured broadband connectivity and digital infrastructure, but the results of the study revealed that many working-class households can’t afford the average monthly cost of having cellular broadband capability, which can run as much as $169 per month.

“We found that while many people do have the infrastructure near them, the problem is that they can’t afford it,” Sahl said. “Affordability is a major problem, and there are many barriers for our residents.”

Train-the-trainer workshops, affordability initiative

While the red flags of inaccessibility to the internet continue to plague a crosssection of area residents, the meeting did highlight some new initiatives.

Coalition co-founder Joan

Holliday focused on digital literacy programs that have provided residents with the opportunity to participate in “our community, our culture and our economy.”

Through its partnership with digital literacy provider RSVP and representation from 14 local non-profit organizations, the Coalition has begun train-the-trainers programs for 51 individuals who are providing education in cyber security, web browsing, email, applications and Zoom, in both English and Spanish.

Financial contributions from Kennett Square Collective, the Kennett Rotary, the United Way of Southern Chester County, the American Mushroom Institute and private funding has raised $41,000 to help pay for three 14-hour train-the-trainer sessions in 2022, and a fourth session that will be offered in March – as well as an additional $200,000 grant that will continue these efforts for the next three years.

“Our vision is to open doors to new potential for achieving good health, good employment, education and social connection,” Holliday said. “We want to remove the barriers. We have a lot of talented people who can contribute a lot more to our community.”

Comcast representative Caitlin Gainley said that the provider has been working to expand network capability to various areas in Chester County. It recently finished network expansion in Elverson, Honey Brook Borough and Honey Brook Township, and is currently looking to make similar expansions in Oxford Borough and Lower Oxford and East Nottingham townships. She said that residents are eligible for Comcast’s Internet Essentials and also have the ability to purchase a computer for a one-time fee of $149.99.

A county-wide and collaborative agency in development?

Holliday called on county government to create a digital equity inclusion plan and employ at least one full-time staff member dedicated to digital inclusion initiatives.

Holliday said that she, Mercante and Sahl recently met with Chester County Commissioner Josh Maxwell; Dr. George F. Fiore, executive director of the Chester County Intermediate Unit; and MaryFrances McGarrity, senior vice president

of the Chester County Development Economic Council.

“The agreement was that those two Chester County agencies would be perfect for applying for federal grant funds and managing the implementation of [a digital equity plan] for the county,” Holliday said. “Jim and I have always had this dream that southern Chester County would be a model that would showcase what we could do. The agreement is that we need to be complete and become county-wide.

“We’re grateful for this leadership and will walk with them side-by-side, but we needed a stronger [consortium of agencies] to carry this forward.”

Throughout the meeting, Mercante and Holliday credited the Pennsylvania Broadband Development Authority; the National Digital Inclusion Alliance; Michelle Moll of RSVP; the Kennett Library; the National Telecommunications and Information Administration; and SCCC President and CEO Cheryl Kuhn for their commitment to providing insight, resources and networking.

“Joan and Jim have both continuing to work on this tirelessly,” Kuhn said of Holliday and Mercante.

“I know I speak for many people who are here with us that I cannot speak highly enough about their commitment and their dedication to the unserved and the underserved in our region and across the county.”

“This is a grass roots effort that will take a village,” said Holliday. “It will take the local, the state and the federal government to really deal with this, but we knew that it also needed the grass-roots energy, so we have really committed ourselves to that.”

Kane referred to the availability of reliable broadband access that gave those in attendance the capability to attend the online meeting.

“Broadband is connecting us all with one another,” said Kane, who is a member of the Pennsylvania Broadband Development Authority. “It allows us to interact with the globe to grow our businesses, schools and healthcare opportunities and also to grow our commonwealth.

“We’ve got to be able to move this forward and make sure that it’s done and done right.”

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

‘We need as a community, as a state and as a country to figure out how to get the internet for all’

Courtesy photos

Pennsylvania Senators John Kane and Carolyn Comitta joined with Pa. Rep. Christina Sappey at the Feb. 2 meeting of the Southern Chester County Digital Equity Coalition.

Oxford Borough sets a good example when it comes to diversity

Now that Raul Juarez-Lara, Jr. has been sworn in as new council member, Oxford Borough Council is arguably more diverse than it ever has been in its history.

Juarez-Lara, Jr. is the first Latino to serve on Oxford Borough Council. Latinos make up over 30 percent of the population of the borough. It’s long overdue for a Latino to serve on the seven-person council. Communities are much better off when the elected officials on the various borough councils, school boards, and other governing bodies reflect their diversity.

Not that long ago, an overwhelming majority of the elected officials in this area were white males. But in the last few decades, some progress has been made in southern Chester County. The progress has been slow, to be sure. There are still far too few minorities involved in local government.

Oxford Borough is setting a good example when it comes to diversity. Our diversity in this country is a strength, not a weakness, so hopefully the local governments continue to grow more diverse.

A lot of seats on school boards, borough councils, and township boards will be up for election later this year. Good candidates are needed so hopefully a diverse group of men and women will step forward and seek office.

Making the grade

A story in the Feb. 1 edition of the Chester County Press highlighted a recent celebration of the Charles F. Patton Middle School’s 50th anniversary.

The Unionville-Chadds Ford School District consistently ranks among the best school districts in Pennsylvania, and the middle school certainly plays an important part in that success. The middle school years are critical as children develop and learn, and the Charles F. Patton Middle School has provided U-CF students with a high-quality experience for five decades.

Remarkably, there have only been four principals at the Charles F. Patton Middle School. The school’s first principal, Charles F. Patton, made such a significant impact during his tenure from 1973 to 1992 that the building was named after him. Bruce Vosburgh then served as principal from 1992 to 2012. Tim Hoffman was the principal from 2012 to 2017 before being promoted to a district-wide role, and Steve Dissinger has served as principal from 2017 to present.

There have been hundreds of teachers and thousands of staffers who have worked to make the Charles F. Patton Middle School what it is today. But the importance of having so much stability at the top shouldn’t be underestimated. Congratulations to the Charles F. Patton Middle School on its big anniversary.

A breath of fresh air

Chester County’s communities have invested heavily in parks and open space.

A new campaign that the county is launching encourages residents to enjoy outdoor activities as a way to improve health and to practice effective self-care.

The “Fresh Air, Self-Care Chesco” initiative brings together the knowledge and services of the county’s Mental Health/Intellectual & Developmental Disabilities Department (MH/IDD), Health Department, Parks and Preservation, and Planning Commission. It highlights the many public outdoor settings throughout the county. Information about the trails, parks, and preserves open to county residents, as well as information about other outdoor activities can be found at the Fresh Air, Self-Care Chesco webpage, www.chesco.org/fresh-air.

By Marie-Louise Meyers

Love comes in many forms and sizes, and so are Valentines.

it may drop gentle like the rain,

it may fill n the gaps of our lives with feelings so sublime and spread evenly throughout the pain of living, or we can take it with us wherever we go like a shower cap,

It may be like the sound and fury at times, at others as though it can’t make up its’ mind for those who blurt it out though filled with doubts.

It may be passed around like gold embossed Valentines or may be secreted in the heart lifting us through the muck and mire of life

Be My Valentine!

a wake up call for those who have let down. It sneaks peeks at time to find out who has made the most of love and rung it out.

It may be unrelenting like a blizzard we can get caught in, or can be like a quick shower you almost drown in, but once you dry up and revive, you forget how it penetrated and spread, or it stutters and stammers till it finds a way out of the dilemma.

But the Valentine my brother drew and wrote to my mother at six never gets old even held to the utmost scrutiny for it read:

To a DEAR from a DEER with a little fawn leading the parade which

stayed with my mother all her years.

Is it contained in a box of chocolates no matter the name, or the small heart charm you wore on your bracelet reminding you of all the charms you assumed you possessed.

Good thing Valentine’s Day comes only once a year or you would gain so much weight, you would have to wear your bracelet like a necklace or it would be forever embraced in a box.

Valentines for friends in need may be your most noteworthy deed for they erase the grayness of the day!

I still have the Valentine

my husband sent me when he was a suitor so long ago it doesn’t seem real how his feelings grew to such immensity.

“I would climb the highest mountain peak, if only you would be my Valentine!”

On viewing the dramatic Mt. Everest Peak, I experienced the euphoria never before repeated.

(Folded in half, there is an uphill climb and a slippery slope to each wanna-be Valentine, but in the center a meeting of two minds before you each embark on another uphill climb, and slippery slope where the culminating point is well defined, an antidote at last for your wonderful united ending so divine.)

Chester County introduces Fresh Air, Self-Care Chesco

Chester County announced the launch of Fresh Air, SelfCare Chesco, a campaign that encourages residents to practice effective self-care for better health and wellness through easy outdoor activity.

Initiative encourages easy outdoor activity and features trails, parks, preserves, and activities for better mental health and wellness countywide initiative led by State Representative Christina Sappey. The coalition, comprised of state legislators, county officials, school administrators, the Chester County Intermediate Unit (CCIU), local higher education institutions, and behavioral health providers, focused on youth mental health concerns identified by school district superintendents.

Introduced at the County Commissioners’ meeting, Fresh Air, Self-Care Chesco brings together the knowledge and services of the County’s Mental Health/Intellectual & Developmental Disabilities Department (MH/IDD), Health Department, Parks + Preservation, and Planning Commission. It highlights the many public outdoor settings throughout the county.

Chester County Commissioners’ Chair Marian Moskowitz said, “Studies have shown that a ten-minute walk can boost energy, clear the mind, and raise spirits. So we want people to get outside – the ‘Fresh Air’ piece – and take a daily ten-minute walk –the ‘Self-Care’ piece. Doing more than that is great, but just a little fresh air activity can truly help.”

Fresh Air, Self-Care Chesco was borne out of recommendations made by the Chester County Youth Mental Health Coalition, a

One of these concerns led to establishing a family and community partnership workgroup, led by the CCIU, whose focus included ways to lower the risk of depression and promote faster stress recovery.

County Commissioner Josh Maxwell, a member of the team whose recommendation led to the Fresh Air, Self-Care Chesco initiative, said, “We have an amazing number of outdoor resources and activities across the whole county that everyone can tap into – and all are free to use.

“For example, the Chester County Trailfinder Guide is an interactive map showing every trail and who owns it – State, County, local municipality, or a homeowners association. Type in your home address, and the

Guide will show trails literally right outside your front door.

“As outdoor activities and resources increase in the run-up to the spring and summer months, this will be reflected on the Fresh Air, Self-Care Chesco web page,” added Commissioner Maxwell.

The many trail, park, preserve, and outdoor activity resources available in Chester County can be found at the Fresh Air, Self-Care Chesco webpage, www.chesco.org/fresh-air.

“I am very pleased to see a recommendation from the Coalition enacted, especially during the winter months when anxiety and depression tend to increase,” said Sappey. “I am grateful for the county’s commitment to work on improving mental

health, and I look forward to continued collaboration with the Chester County Commissioners going forward to help families struggling with access and treatment of mental health issues for their loved ones.”

Commissioner Michelle Kichline said, “Taking care of your mind is just as important as taking care of your body – something that is known by the medical community, and now, also known and appreciated by people of all ages.

“We plan to spread the word about Chester County’s wealth of outdoor options through this campaign and encourage schools, libraries, senior centers, afterschool groups, businesses, our municipalities, and more to promote Fresh Air, SelfCare Chesco.”

Rover Community Transportation Service to transition to Chester County government

Beginning on April 1, 2023, responsibility for the majority of paratransit services currently provided by Rover in Chester County will transition to a County-run operation, overseen by the Chester County Department of Human Services.

The Rover community transportation service was introduced in 1984 to offer diversified transportation for Chester County residents, especially those who cannot drive or have no other means of transportation, including seniors, individuals with disabilities and those requiring medical assistance transportation. The service has been contracted by the county with Rover since its start.

Over the past four years, Chester County’s Department of Human Services has employed a consultant to review the county’s community transportation needs and costs, and the department has partnered with PennDOT to assess ridership feedback. Final reports from both the consultants and PennDOT note high rider satisfaction (93 percent) with the Rover service. The move to a county-led operation addresses the cost efficiencies of providing the community transportation service itself, while maintaining the high quality of service.

Ridership of Rover Community Transportation

currently stands at 55 percent of pre-COVID-19 levels, and state and national trends indicate that future usage of para-transit systems will remain uncertain.

Pat Bokovitz, the director of the Chester County Department of Human Services, said, “Because of the uncertainty in ridership levels, and the cost to subsidize the community transportation service, Chester County will take the lead on providing the majority of community transportation service, from April 1 of this year.

“We appreciate the expertise and service provided by Rover in running this service. It has been valuable to the residents of Chester

County since its start nearly 40 years ago, run with the professionalism that is the hallmark of the Krapf family and its transportation companies.”

A new Department of Community Transit has been established by Chester County Government to accommodate the Rover service. Positions of employment will begin to be offered to Rover employees – from schedulers and dispatchers to drivers –within the coming weeks. Further details of the community transportation service will be provided as the timeline for the April 1 transition gets closer. All current ridership services will continue as scheduled.

In the Spotlight

Kennett’s Barker and Tuk to play for Division I football programs

By Richard L. Gaw Staff Writer

For the past four seasons of Ches-Mont League football, Kennett High School seniors Ryan Barker and Connor Tuk played their home games at Kennett Stadium, before crowds as large as 1,500.

On Sept. 2 against visiting West Virginia University, Barker will enter the playing field at Beaver Stadium as a member of the Penn State football team, before a crowd that is likely to be more than 106,500.

On Dec. 9, Tuk will be playing in his first ArmyNavy game as a member of the West Point Cadets football team in front of a national television audience and 65,000 fans at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Mass.

The scenarios of their respective destinations will mark not only a light-year difference from their playing days at Kennett High School, but history in the making, as Barker and Tuk will become the first Blue Demons to play football at the Division I level.

Barker’s introduction

to football came at the expense of his love for soccer, when just before his freshman year, he was spotted by a school custodian kicking 50-yard field goals at Kennett Stadium.

The custodian contacted Kennett head coach Lance Frazier about Barker, which promptly turned into a four-year career as the team’s punter and kicker.

The 6’3” Barker, who committed to Penn State as a preferred walk-on last June and plans to study finance and accounting at the university, said he is mentally prepared to face the staggering pressure of a Big 10 schedule and stadiums with seating capacities of more than 100,000 – as a member of a team that was ranked #11th nationally in 2022 and played in this year’s Rose Bowl.

“I’ve always considered myself pretty calm under pressure and have played in front of thousands in soccer games, but Beaver Stadium is one of a kind and it will definitely take some adjusting, but that’s what I hope to learn during my first year,” Barker said.

“My dream has not only

been to play for Penn State but to eventually have a chance to play in the NFL, and special teams coordinator (Stacy) Collins and head coach James Franklin are going to give me the best chance that I can possibly have.”

For the 6’ 4”, 315-pound Tuk, choosing West Point is a guarantee that he will get to participate in perhaps college football’s most-storied rivalry.

“I chose West Point because it is a prestigious school, and as far as football, you can’t get much bigger than the annual Army-Navy game,” said Tuk, who is penciled in to play offensive guard for the Cadets. “It’s a great atmosphere there and I’m excited to become a part of it.”

For Tuk, who will be majoring in kinesiology with the aspiration to become a strength and conditioning coach, preparing for the upcoming season has already begun. Scheduled to report to West Point for summer workouts in early June, Tuk is working with a personal trainer and an offensive

line coach, and is following the training manual he received from the Army football program.

Tuk will be joining a West Point team that finished 6-6 in 2022 and will face a schedule this year that is dotted with perennial powerhouses Syracuse, LSU, Boston College and Air Force. He will be busy; Tuk will be coached by new offensive coordinator Drew Thatcher and become a part of Army’s triple-option offense, which has helped place the team among the nation’s rushing leaders in recent years and earned it

five bowl appearances.

Frazier said that what makes Barker and Tuk worthy of Division I-level play derives from who they are not just on the field, “but who they are as people.”

“It provides a great foundation for success and growth,” he said. “It shows that they are willing to be led, and that they are willing to apply coach-like attributes and apply those attributes to the team.

“This is a game of height, weight, speed and strength and so when you look at Barker and Tuk, you want those guys to get off the

bus first, because they have that prototypical look and build.”

Frazier said that elevating two players to the top tier of college football is not only a milestone for a program that finished 7-0 in the Ches-Mont American Division last season, but a testament to the commitment of all of its players.

“It’s because of their willingness to get better, to take direction from the coaching staff and do all of the little things that no one ever sees,” he said. “Our guys really embody that preparation part. It’s what we have to do to be competitive, but it’s what’s needed if you’re going to play at the next level.

“I think our guys have taken the lead from us, so hopefully this says to college coaches that they should not only believe what they see on film, but know that they’re going to get a special player once they get there.”

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

Two Chester County residents win Pa. State Park and Forests photography awards

The Pennsylvania Parks and Forests Foundation (PPFF) recently congratulated all the participants and the local contestants whose photography skills earned them awards.

With nearly 600 photo entries in the Pennsylvania Parks and Forests Foundation’s 2022 Photo Contest, there was stiff competition for the twenty prize slots.

“The passion people have for their state parks and forests is evident in the volume and quality of images received,” said Marci Mowery, president of PPFF. “Photography is one of many ways that people enjoy these special places.”

Residing in Chester County, Mark Lucas traveled a distance to capture the magic of Penn’s Woods in his winning photo from Gallitzin State Forest. He won the Judge’s Choice Award in the Forests category.

For Mark, a native of Windber, Gallitzin State

Forest is his “home turf.”

Mark has walked its trails many times throughout his life, cherishing the forest’s calm nature and history-rich trails.

He especially appreciates the quiet that Gallitzin’s extensive remote trail network provides.

“This solitude enables me to walk slowly on the trails looking for potential photographic opportunities, take the time to think about a shot, build the photograph in my mind and set up with the proper equipment to capture what I’m seeing and feeling without any kind of disruption,” he said.

His winning shot truly captures that magical calm that one finds in nature.

He was walking the 12-mile loop of the John P. Saylor Trail when he chanced upon morning sunbeams coming through the tree cover and illuminating the bright green moss speckled with tiny orange mushrooms at the base of the decaying tree.

“I decided that I needed to try to tell the story of the once magnificent tree being reclaimed by the forest floor. With the young trees in the background looking on, the scene seemed to portray the Forest’s circle of life,” he said.

He lowered himself to capture a shot of growth and decay, science and magic -- a shot that brings fairy tales to mind.

Marsh Creek State Park provided the People’s Choice Young Photographer

Winner, Lilly Zhang from Chester County, with her photo of a heron waiting in the mist.

“It was a crisp autumn morning, and I went to Marsh Creek State Park, hoping to see the mist suspended on the water with the fall colors reflecting on the surface. To my surprise, I also saw a great heron perched on a rock by the shore,” she said.

Lilly loves Marsh Creek for all its recreational activities - kayaking, boating,

fishing, picnicking, trails, and playground areas - and for its wildlife and serene beauty. It holds a special place in her heart.

“I have a lot of fond memories of gatherings, early mornings, and paddle boarding there with family and friends,” she reflected.

The 2022 Photo Contest’s theme was Clean Water and Forested Ecosystems with categories selected to highlight the value of clean water and the role forests play in watershed health, such as

Water is Life, Caught in the Rain, Raindrop to River, Reflections, Forests, as well as a Young Photographers category.

You can view the winners and all the 2022 Clean Water and Forested Ecosystem Photo Contest submissions on PPFF’s Facebook page. The 2023 Photo Contest is officially open. The categories for 2023 are related to PPFF’s 2023 theme of “Reflections” and are a direct outgrowth of 2022’s photo contest.

Courtesy photos

Barker will play his home games at 106,500-seat Beaver Stadium at Penn State, while Tuk will play at historic, 40,000-seat Michie Stadium at West Point.

Photo by Richard L. Gaw

Kennett High School senior Connor Tuk, left, signed a letter of commitment on Feb.

2 to play football at the United States Military Academy. His teammate Ryan Barker, right, is headed to Penn State University this fall, to play on the nationally ranked Nittany Lions football team.

Marsh Creek State Park provided the People’s Choice Young Photographer Winner, Lilly Zhang from Chester County, with her photo of a heron waiting in the mist.

Courtesy photo

Residing in Chester County, Mark Lucas traveled a distance to capture the magic of Penn’s Woods in his winning photo from Gallitzin State Forest. He won the Judge’s Choice Award in the Forests category.

CLAIRE MARIE NUNN

Claire Marie Nunn, of West Grove, passed away on Jan. 22, 2023 at Lancaster General Hospital. She was 80.

Born in Landenberg, she was the daughter of the late William and Florence Lucas Ellsworth.

Claire retired from KendalCrosslands in Kennett Square after 22 years.

She was a member of the Landenberg United Methodist Church and cherished her church family.

The most important thing to Claire was spending time with family, all of whom she loved very much.

She is survived by two daughters, Gwen Oscar (Mike) of New Garden, and Nora Keating (Kevin) of Cochranville. Claire had ten grandchildren, Dominique, Dina, Michael, Sarah, Nicholas, William, Samuel, Thomas, Matthew, and Christina, and three great-grandchildren, Seth, Cerina, and Jordana, and daughter-in-law, Tina Nunn, all of whom she adored. She was preceded in death by one son, Syd Nunn. A memorial service was held on Jan. 28 at the Edward L. Collins, Jr. Funeral Home, Inc. in Oxford. Interment will be private.

lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the St Jude Foundation, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, Tenn. 38105, since Claire loved the foundation and had made donations all throughout her life.

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

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EARL W. SHORTLIDGE

Earl W. Shortlidge, a resident of Middletown, Del. who formerly lived in West Grove, passed away on Jan. 31, 2023 at Genesis Belvedere Center. He was 80. He was the husband of Lana Gill, who passed away in 2019, and with whom he shared 40 years of marriage.

Born in West Grove, he was the son of the late Albert E. Shortlidge, Sr. and the late Helen Messimer Shortlidge.

Earl was a retired truck driver and had worked for Downing Contractors and McGeary Grain.

He was a member of the Italian American Club in Kennett Square.

Earl enjoyed bowling, watching Nascar, and spending time with his family and friends.

He is survived by one sister, Elaine Ticknor of Middletown, Del.

He was predeceased by three brothers and four sisters. Services will be held privately.

In lieu of flowers, a contribution may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, 399 Market Street. Suite # 250, Philadelphia, Pa. 19106.

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

PETER LYNN LAFRANCE JR

Peter Lynn LaFrance Jr., a resident of Avondale, passed away peacefully while asleep in his home on Jan. 30, 2023. He was 60.

He was the husband of Petra Fuchs LaFrance, with whom he shared 40 years of marriage.

Born in West Chester, he was the son of Carol Corea DiNenno of Kennett Square and the late Peter LaFrance.

Some of his proudest moments were his games with the Kaolin Comets, graduating high school from St. Mary’s in Colorado Springs, receiving the army ARCOM, beginning his own business, watching his children grow, traveling the globe chasing solar eclipse photography opportunities, becoming a grandfather, and every sitting of pecan pie. His love and intrigue of the sciences, his interest and enjoyment of hunting and camping, his expert mechanical and electrical skills, his love for music, and devotion to the Phillies and Eagles will be remembered and passed on to those he knew.

He will be missed by his mother, wife, seven siblings, three sons, and two grandsons.

He received several awards while in the U.S. Army. He was a combat engineer. He met his wife Petra while serving in the military. He was an avid astronomer and astrophotographer, something he continued to the end.

The plumbing business he started over 15 years ago will continue to be operated by his sons.

In addition to his wife Petra, Peter is survived by his three sons, James (Anne) of Quarryville, Andrew of Wilmington, and Chris of Landenberg; his brother, Michael (Rita) of Cochranville; his sisters, Jeanine LaFrance of Kennett, Bev DiFlippo (Gino) of New Garden, Patty Innes (Rob) or North East Md., Mary LaFrance of West Grove, Elizabeth LaFrance of Newark, and Johanna LaFrance of Wilmington. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Hunter and Archer, along with many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Chester County Astronomical Club, or your local VFW post.

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

ANTHONY D. PROCOPIO

Anthony (Tony) D. Procopio, age 75, of Kennett Square, passed away on Jan. 29, 2023 in the care of Penn Palliative Care at Chester County Hospital. Tony was the loving husband of Dianne (Winterstein) Procopio, with whom he shared 33 years of marriage.

Born in Philadelphia, he was the son of the late Russell Procopio and the late Florence J. Patitucci Procopio.

Tony attended South Philadelphia High School and, early in his career, worked for Zenith Metal Products in Primos, Pa. A natural-born adventurer and entrepreneur, he also lived in Arizona, followed by Las Vegas, where he opened the Olde Philadelphia Steak Shop. His original concept, Olde Philadelphia, was a family-owned and operated establishment, bringing the best tastes of Philadelphia to Vegas, offering authentic cheesesteaks, hoagies, and all the flavors of “growing up in Philly,” with treats such as Tastykakes, Goldenberg’s Peanut Chews, and soft pretzels. Tony sold the restaurant in 2003, retired and returned to Pennsylvania.

Not one to sit still for too long, Tony loved working on various home projects and, in his spare time, enjoyed fishing, golfing, and volunteering for various local organizations. He was also a licensed pilot. With his larger-than-life personality, he loved time spent with family for Sunday dinners and holidays, spending hours holding court at the table recounting stories of his life and adventures.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Dianne; her children, son Daniel Strong (Emily), of Seattle, Washington, daughter Logan Frazer, of Las Vegas, Nev., and grandson Joey Dennis Strong; brother Russell (Joanne), of Glen Mills, Pa., many nieces and nephews who adored him, as well as beloved cousins and friends.

Tony was predeceased by his brother Arthur “Caesar” Procopio (Carmen).

Services were held on Feb. 4 at Kuzo Funeral Home, Inc. in Kennett Square and a funeral mass followed at St. Patrick Church, also in Kennett Square.

Burial was at SS. Peter & Paul Cemetery in Springfield, Pa.

In lieu of flowers, a contribution may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, Tenn. 38105 or online at http://www.stjude.org/ donate.

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

Obituaries

WILMER L. HOSTETTER

Wilmer L. Hostetter was surrounded by his loving family when he went peacefully to his heavenly home on Feb. 3, 2023. He was 85.

He is survived by Joyce L. Landis Hostetter, his wife of 65 years.

On Feb. 8, 1938, Wilmer was born in Gap, Pa. to the late Jay and Margie (Hershey) Hostetter.

Wilmer was in the dairy business and started the Joy-Wil registered Holstein Dairy. In 1976, Wilmer began a new business which is now Hostetter Grain Inc.

Wilmer loved business and people. He also liked finding time for managing and coaching men’s softball, hunting, fishing, traveling and golf. He especially enjoyed the sporting events of the grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Family times were very important and enjoyable to Wilmer.

He loved his Lord and Savior and was a member of Mount Vernon Christian Church for more than 50 years, serving in many ways including as a treasurer and trustee. He served on the Black Rock Retreat Board for 12 years and Partners in Evangelism Board for over 25 years. He also served on the Oxford School Board (chairman for 3 years), Fulton Bank Advisory Board for 15 years, Farm Credit Board for 38 years and the Chester County Holstein Board.

Wilmer is survived by his wife; three sons, Bill (Melissa Slauch), Bernie (Karen Moran) and John (Judy Rohrer); ten grandchildren, Phillip (Victoria) Hostetter, Eric (Meghan) Hostetter, Allison Hostetter, Derek Hostetter, Jarrett (Meredith) Hostetter, Justin (Melody) Hostetter, Jason (Faith) Hostetter, Paige (Marshall) Horst, Ellie (Josh) Witmer and Brooke (Zack) Swope; and 25 great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by a son, Barry and granddaughter, Rebekah Hostetter, two brothers, Donald and Harry, and four sisters, Anna Kreider, Elva Peifer Martin, Vera Mast and Rosa Weidman.

A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Feb. 11 at Mount Vernon Christian Church, 1 Lighthouse Dr, Kirkwood, Pa. 17536, where friends and family may visit from 10 to 11 a.m. and Friday from 6 to 8 p.m. Interment will be private.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Mt. Vernon Christian Church or Black Rock Retreat, 1354 Kirkwood Pk., Quarryville, Pa. 17566. Online condolences may be made at www.elcollinsfuneralhome.com.

MICHAEL T. CLARKE

Michael T. Clarke, 26, of Oxford, passed away on Jan. 28, 2023 at Lancaster General Hospital.

Born in Upland, Pa. he was the son of Thomas and Nora Clarke. Michael enjoyed music, dancing, food and spending time with people. He was a happy-go-lucky, high energy people person. He was a very inclusive, giving person.

He is survived by his parents; one brother, William Clarke (Lauren Styer); his grandparents; and many uncles and aunts.

Funeral services were held on Feb. 4 at the Edward L. Collins, Jr. Funeral Home, Inc. in Oxford.

Interment will be private.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to www. lgsfoundation.org.

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

RITA M. DENNEY

Rita M. Denney, of Nottingham, passed away while at home on Jan. 22, 2023. She was 80.

She was the wife of the late Robert D. Denney, with whom she shared 45 years of marriage.

Born in Wyco, West Va., she was the daughter of the late Woodrow Wilson and Dema McMillan Perdue.

She was a member of Church of Christ in Kelton. She enjoyed puzzles, coloring and shopping. She was survived by two sons, Michael Denney and Robert Denney, Jr.; one daughter, Debbie Stevens; seven grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; one brother, Charles Purdue of Oxford; and one sister, Mary Louise Heath of Oxford.

She was preceded in death by one son, Darrell Denney. Services are private.

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

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

ESTATE NOTICE

Estate of James C English, Late of Wayne, Tredyffrin Township, Chester County, PA, LETTERS

TESTAMENTARY on the above

Estate have been granted to the undersigned, who request all persons having claims or demands against the estate of the decedent to make known the same and all persons indebted to the decedent to make payment without delay to Joanne R Nammavong , Executrix, 133 N Pennock Avenue, Upper Darby PA 19082. 1p-25-3t

ESTATE NOTICE

Estate of Elaine Litwa, Late of West Grove, Penn Township, Chester County, PA, LETTERS

TESTAMENTARY on the above

Estate have been granted to the undersigned, who request all persons having claims or demands against the estate of the decedent to make known the same and all persons indebted to the decedent to make payment without delay to Donna DiRosato, 212 Penns Grove Rd. Oxford Pa, 19363, Executor. 1p-25-3t

ESTATE NOTICE

Estate of KRISTIE LYNN FERGUSON, Late of Honey Brook, Chester County, PA, Letters of Administration on the above

Estate have been granted to the undersigned, who request all persons having claims or demands against the estate of the decedent to make known the same and all persons indebted to the decedent to make payment without delay to Tammy Lynn Ferguson and James J. Ferguson, 84 6 Point Court, Honey Brook, PA 19344, Administrators, Or Attorney: Leonard B. Edelstein, Esquire. Edelstein Martin & Nelson, LLP 123 South Broad Street, Suite 1820, Philadelphia, PA 19109 2p-1-3t

ESTATE NOTICE

Estate of Marie H. Spencer, Late of West Grove, PA , Chester County, PA, LETTERS TESTAMENTARY on the above

Estate have been granted to the undersigned, who request all persons having claims or demands against the estate of the decedent to make known the same and all persons indebted to the decedent to make payment without delay to Executor: Judith Hoopes, C/O Attorney: Ira D. Binder, 227 Cullen Rd, Oxford, PA 19363 2p-1-3t

ESTATE NOTICE

Estate of Mary Ann Spellman, Deceased. Late of Chester Springs, PA. Letters Testamentary on the above estate have been granted to the undersigned. All persons having

claims against or indebted to the estate should make claims known or forward payment to, Gary Spellman, Executor, 2447 Chester Springs Rd., Chester Springs, PA 19425 or to their attorney Scott D. Bloom, Esq., Law Office of Scott D., Bloom, 1033A Mill Creek Dr., Feasterville, PA 19053.

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NOTICE

PENN TOWNSHIP ZONING

HEARING BOARD

NOTICE is hereby given that the Zoning Hearing Board of Penn Township will hold a Public Hearing at the Penn Township Municipal Building, 260 Lewis Road, West Grove, Pennsylvania, on March 6, 2023, at 7:00 p.m. at which time the Board will hear the following matter:

In re: Application of Jesse and Valerie Stone seeking variances from the 15 foot rear yard setback and from the 25 foot side yard setback, and from the 25% maximum impervious cover limit so as to add a residential swimming pool, coping, patio and pool equipment resulting in a 10 foot rear yard, a 16 foot side yard, and total impervious cover of 40.96%, on property located at 2 Allsmeer Drive, West Grove, PA (UPI#58-3-362) in the Township’s RS-Residential Suburban Zoning District.

If you are a person with a disability and wish to attend the public meeting scheduled above and require an auxiliary aide, service or other accommodation to participate in the proceedings, please contact the Township Secretary at (610) 869-9620 to discuss how Penn Township may best accommodate your needs. Edward M. Foley, Solicitor, Brutscher, Foley, Milliner, Land & Kelly, LLP, 213 E. State Street Kennett Square, PA 19348

2p-8-2t INCORPORATION

NOTICE

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN

THAT Articles of Incorporation for a Corporation were filed with the Department of State of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania for the purpose of creating a business corporation which has been incorporated under the provisions of the Business Corporation Law of 1988. The name of the corporation is BERWYN BEER, INC., 521 Lancaster Ave., Berwyn, PA 19312, and was filed by CAPUTO LAW OFFICE, 204 Fifth Avenue, Buhl Building, 5th Floor, Pittsburgh, PA 15222

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PUBLIC NOTICE

AT&T proposes to construct a 116’ monopole at 940 Union-

ville Wawaset Road, Kennett Square, PA (20230033). Interested parties may contact Scott Horn (856-809-1202) (1012 Industrial Dr., West Berlin, NJ 08091) with comments regarding potential effects on historic properties.

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ESTATE NOTICE

ESTATE OF Diana C. Hoopes, late of New Garden Township, Chester County, Deceased. Letters Testamentary on the estate of the above named, Diana C. Hoopes 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: C. Barclay Hoopes, Jr., Executor, c/o Attorney: Winifred Moran Sebastian, Esquire, 208 E. Locust Street, P.O. Box 381, Oxford, PA 19363, Phone: 610932-3838

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DISSOLUTION

NOTICE

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the shareholders and directors of Country Butcher Fine Foods, Inc., a Pennsylvania corporation, having its registered office at 145 South Walnut Street, Kennett Square, PA 19348, has filed Articles of Dissolution – Domestic Corporation with the Department of State of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. The Board of Directors is now engaged in winding up and settling the affairs of the corporation under the applicable provisions of the Pennsylvania Business Corporation Law of 1988, as amended.

NEIL E. LAND, ESQUIRE, Brutscher, Foley, Milliner, Land & Kelly, LLP, 213 East State Street, Kennett Square, PA 19348

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DISSOLUTION

NOTICE

Pursuant to the requirements of section 1975 of the Pennsylvania Business Corporation Law of 1988, notice is hereby given that C. W. BALCHAN INC. is currently in the process of voluntarily dissolving. Charles G. Cheleden, Esq., 275 South Main Street, Suite 11, Doylestown, PA 18901

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DISSOLUTION

NOTICE

Pursuant to the requirements of section 1975 of the Pennsylvania Business Corporation Law of 1988, notice is hereby given that CONTRACTORS CHOICE EQUIPMENT RENTAL, INC. is currently in the process of

voluntarily dissolving. Hamburg, Rubin, Mullin, Maxwell & Lupin, PC, 375 Morris Road, P.O. Box 1479, Lansdale, PA 19446 2p-8-1t

INCORPORATION NOTICE

Berwyn Contracting, Inc. has been incorporated under the provisions of the Pennsylvania Business Corporation Law of 1988. Judson H. Shutt, Esquire, 167 Conestoga Road, Suite A, Wayne, PA 19087 2p-8-1t

NOTICE

OXFORD BOROUGH RESIDENTS

Oxford Borough will hold the following new public meetings in February 2023:

The Task Force working to update the Borough’s Subdivision and Land Development and Zoning Ordinances will hold a kick-off meeting on Tuesday, February 28th at 4:00 pm. The Water Resource Protection Committee Meeting originally scheduled for February 6th will be held on Monday, February 13th at 6:00 p.m. The Committee to explore an Advisory Commission on Latino Affairs (ACOLA) for the Borough will hold its first meeting on Monday, February 27th at 6:00 pm. From then on the Committee will meet the third Monday of the month, before the scheduled Council meeting at 6:00 pm. There will be no meetings of the Committee in June, July or August, unless advertised separately.

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 610-9322500 to discuss how your needs may be best accommodated.

Pauline Garcia-Allen Borough Manager

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ESTATE NOTICE

Estate of Doris S. Dempsey, Late of Oxford, PA, LETTERS TESTAMENTARY on the above Estate have been granted to the undersigned, who request all persons having claims or demands against the estate of the decedent to make known the same and all persons indebted to the decedent to make payment without delay to Michael L. Dempsey 204 Roneys Corner, Oxford, PA 19363, dempseym@ comcast.net, Executor.

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Sheriff Sale

of Real Estate

By virtue of the within mentioned writs directed to Sheriff Fredda L. Maddox, the hereindescribed real estate will be sold at public online auction via Bid4Assets, by accessing URL www.bid4assets.com/ chestercopasheriffsales, on Thursday, February 16 th , 2023 at 11AM. Notice is given to all parties in interest and claimants that the Sheriff will file with the Prothonotary and in the Sheriff’s Office, both located in the Chester County Justice Center, 201 W. Market Street, West Chester, Pennsylvania, Schedules of Distribution on Monday, March 20 th, 2023. Distribution will be made in accordance with the Schedules unless exceptions are filed in the Sheriff’s Office within ten (10) days thereafter.

SALE NO. 23-2-63

Writ of Execution No. 2020-01488 DEBT $184,590.24

ALL THAT CERTAIN tract of land on which is situated a one-half double frame house, known as 419 Strasburg Avenue in the Borough of Parkesburg, in Chester County, Pennsylvania, bounded and described as follows:

BEGINNING at a point in the middle of said Strasburg Avenue, said point being 200 feet West from the west side of North Culvert Street, the southwest corner of land of Chester Findley; thence North along the line of land of Chester Findley, North 19 degrees 20 minutes East 290.4 feet to the middle of a 20 feet wide public alley, known as North Alley; thence along the middle of said Alley, North 70 degrees 32 minutes West 75 feet to the line of land of Sara W. Schultz, now known as Sara W. Sener; thence South along said last mentioned line of land of Sara Sener, South 19 degrees 28 minutes West and going through the center of the division wall of Sara W. Sener and the property hereby conveyed 290.4 feet to the middle of Strasburg Avenue aforesaid; thence finally along the center line of Strasburg Avenue, South 70 degrees 32 minutes East 75 feet to the point and place of beginning. Containing 21,780 square feet of land, be the same more or less.

BEING the same premises which Adrienne M. Hess, now known as Adrienne M. Walburn, recorded on January 14, 2016, in the Recorder of Deeds in and for the County of Chester, at Instrument Number 11453393, by Deed dated January 14, 2016 and recorded January

15, 2016 in the Office of the Recorder of Deeds in and for the County of Chester in Record Book 9250 Page 319, granted and conveyed unto Denise M. Johnston, in fee.

BEING UPI # 08-03-0059

PLAINTIFF: CARRINGTONMORTGAGE SERVICES, LLC VS

DEFENDANT: DENISE M. JOHNSTON

SALE ADDRESS: 419 Strasburg Avenue, Parkesburg, PA 19365

PLAINTIFF ATTORNEY: HILLWALLACK LLP 215-579-7700

N.B. Ten percent (10%) of the purchase money must be paid at the time of the on-line sale. Payment must be made via Bid4Assets. The balance must be paid within twenty-one (21) days from the date of sale via Bid4Assets. FREDDA L. MADDOX, SHERIFF 1p-26-3t

Sheriff Sale of Real Estate

By virtue of the within mentioned writs directed to Sheriff Fredda L. Maddox, the hereindescribed real estate will be sold at public online auction via Bid4Assets, by accessing URL www.bid4assets.com/ chestercopasheriffsales, on Thursday, February 16 th , 2023 at 11AM. Notice is given to all parties in interest and claimants that the Sheriff will file with the Prothonotary and in the Sheriff’s Office, both located in the Chester County Justice Center, 201 W. Market Street, West Chester, Pennsylvania, Schedules of Distribution on Monday, March 20 th, 2023. Distribution will be made in accordance with the Schedules unless exceptions are filed in the Sheriff’s Office within ten (10) days thereafter.

SALE NO. 23-2-65 Writ of Execution No. 2022-03636 DEBT $31,112.54

ALL THAT CERTAIN , MESSAGE, LOT OR PIECE OF LAND SITUATE ON, IN THE BOROUGH OF WEST GROVE, COUNTY OF CHESTER, STATE OF PENNSYLVANIA, BOUNDED AND DESCRIBED, AS FOLLOWS, TO WIT:

All that certain lot or piece of ground Situate in the Borough of West Grove, County of Chester, County and State of Pennsylvania, bounded and described according to a subdivision of Harmony Hill made by N.M. Lake and Associates, Inc., Land Surveyors, Oxford, Pennsylva-

Chester County Hospital named one of America’s 50 Best Hospitals for the third year in a row

Healthgrades recently recognized Chester County Hospital (CCH) as one of America’s 50 Best Hospitals for 2023. This acknowledgment places CCH in the top 1 percent of hospitals nationwide for consistently providing overall clinical excellence across a broad spectrum of conditions and procedures.

Along with this year’s recognition, CCH was named to Healthgrades’ America’s 250 Best Hospitals Award list and received Healthgrades’ Specialty Clinical Quality Awards for being among America’s 100 Best Hospitals for cardiac care, critical care, gastrointestinal care, gastrointestinal surgery, pulmonary care, and stroke care. The hospital was also named one of Healthgrades’ 50 Best Hospitals in 2021 and 2022.

“It’s an honor to see Chester County Hospital being recognized by Healthgrades as one of the best hospitals

in the nation for the third year in a row,” said Michael Duncan, president and CEO of Chester County Hospital.

“This award exemplifies the commitment of our hospital’s medical staff, care team, and nurses to deliver the best possible care to our patients and the community year-over-year.”

Healthgrades is the leading online platform that connects patients to various healthcare providers and hospitals across the country. Healthgrades evaluates clinical performance for nearly 4,500 hospitals in 32 eligible states to determine the top hospitals in the United States. They also measure hospitals in more than 31 common procedures and in 18 specialty areas to identify the highest-ranking hospitals.

“Healthcare decisions are often complicated and fraught with emotion,” said Brad Bowman, M.D., Chief Medical Officer and

Head of Data Science at Healthgrades. “By giving consumers an easy-to-understand, data-driven way to

identify the hospitals in their area with the best outcomes, Healthgrades is helping all patients – no matter their

Obituaries

ROBERT SAMUEL FULTON, JR.

Robert Samuel Fulton, Jr., known by many as Mr. Bobbie, Bobbie, or Rob, passed away peacefully on Jan. 23, 2023 while at his home in West Grove. He was 62.

He was the husband of the late Margaret Rose McAtee Fulton.

Born in West Grove, he was the son of the late Robert and Mary Kathryn Fulton.

Rob was a 1979 graduate of Avon Grove High School and was employed with the Avon Grove School District for 40 years.

Rob loved fishing, hunting, baseball, music and his church family and friends. He also loved his two cats, Zooey and Callie.

He was sweet and kind and had a compassionate spirit.

He is survived by his daughter, Megan Fulton of Wilmington, Del. and one sister, Lisa Stout of West Grove.

He was preceded in death by one son, Gregory Robert Fulton. Funeral services were held on Jan. 26 at the Edward L. Collins, Jr. Funeral Home, Inc. in Oxford.

Interment will be in Oxford Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Pancreatic Cancer Action Network, 1500 Rosecrans Ave., Ste. 200, Manhattan Beach, Calif. 90266. Online condolences may be made at www.elcollinsfuneralhome.com.

nia, dated September 24, 1987 and revised October 3, 1988 and recorded in Chester County as plan File Number 9013, and being more fully described as follows, to-wit:

Beginning at a point on the Southeasterly side of Haines Drive, a corner of Lot 17 on said plan, thence extending from said point of beginning and extending along said side of Lot 17 South 60 degrees 30 minutes 18 seconds East 163.51 feet to a point and corner of Lot 23 on said plan, thence extending along said side of lot 23 South 24 degrees 37 minutes 30 seconds West 100.36 feet to a point and corner of Lot 18 on said Plan, thence extending along said side of Lot 19, North 60 degrees 30 minutes 18 seconds West 163.51 feet to a point on the Southeasterly side of Haines Drive; thence extending along said side of Haines Drive, North 24 degrees 37 minutes 30 seconds East 100.36 feet to the first mentioned point and place of beginning.

Being Lot 18 on said plan.

Excepting and reserving unto the Grantor its successors and assigns, the perpetual right to dedicate and convey to the Borough of West SALE NO. 23-2-65 Grove (“Borough”), Chester County, Pennsylvania, a Pennsylvania municipal corporation duly organized and existing as a borough, perpetual and exclusive easements, right-of-way and right of entry, all upon, over under and across any and all areas, shown on the above identified Plan, recorded at plan file no.

9013-9020, as public roads, water supply, sanitary and/ or stormwater managements easements, rights-of-way and/ or facilities; any easement, rightof-way and/or right conveyed to the Borough, pursuant to this exception and reservation, shall be for the purpose of placing, constructing, operating, using, maintaining, repairing, rebuilding, replacing, relocating and/ or removing any/or all public watersupply,sanitary sewer, stormwater management and/or any and all other utilities, lines, services and/or facilities and/or public road all such rights to be free from interference; which right to dedicate and convey to the Borough shall be limited only by any prior conveyance of such rights to the Borough.

BEING THE SAME PROPERTY CONVEYED TO STEVEN M. GENTILE AND ANNE F. GENTILE, HUSBAND AND WIFE WHO ACQUIRED TITLE, AS TENANTS BY THE ENTIRETY, BY VIRTUE OF A DEED FROM ERIK REICHELT AND CHRISTINA REICHELT, HUSBAND AND WIFE, DATED JUNE 22, 2006, RECORDED JULY 21, 2006, AT DEED BOOK 6903, PAGE 495, OFFICE OF THE RECORDER OF DEEDS, CHESTER COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA.

UPI # 5-2-37.15

SALE NO. 23-2-65

PLAINTIFF: PNC Bank,National Association VS DEFENDANT: Steven M. Gentile& Anne F.Gentile

background – confidently choose higher quality care.”

Lancaster General Hospital, which is also part

of Penn Medicine, was also recognized by Healthgrades as one of America’s 50 Best Hospitals for 2023.

LORRAINE B. JOHNSON

Lorraine B. Johnson, 98, of Peach Bottom, Pa. passed away on Jan. 26, 2023 at Union Hospital in Elkton, Md.

She was the wife of the late Ferd A. Johnson.

Lorraine is survived by three sons, Donald Johnson of Oxford, Richard Johnson of Nottingham and Terry Johnson of Oxford; two daughters, Linda Hill of Oxford and Norma Lawwill of Middletown, OH; 50 grandchildren; and many great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by two sons, Berchie Johnson and Ronnie Johnson and two daughters, Barbara Johnson and Joyce Timmonds.

A graveside service was held on Jan. 31 at the Oxford Cemetery.

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

Obituary submissions

The Chester County Press publishes obituaries free of charge for funeral homes with active advertising accounts only. Others with a connection to southern Chester

Legals

SALE ADDRESS: 5 Haines Drive, West Grove, PA 19390

PLAINTIFF ATTORNEY: MANLEY DEAS KOCHALSKI LLC 614-220-5611

N.B. Ten percent (10%) of the purchase money must be paid at the time of the on-line sale. Payment must be made via Bid4Assets. The balance must be paid within twenty-one (21) days from the date of sale via Bid4Assets. FREDDA L. MADDOX, SHERIFF 1p-26-3t

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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

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Healthgrades recently recognized Chester County Hospital (CCH) as one of America’s 50 Best Hospitals for 2023.

Additional Obituaries on Page 3B

Nelson earns perfect ACT score

Tennyson Nelson, a junior at Avon Grove Charter School, has earned a perfect ACT score.

“This is an amazing accomplishment,” said Matthew Messick, high school principal.

“Tennyson has consistently pushed himself academically, and it is not a surprise that he scored high, but a perfect score, wow! We look forward to seeing where his resume takes him.”

The ACT is an entrance exam used by many colleges and universities to make admissions decisions. It is a multiplechoice, pencil-and-paper test administered by ACT, Inc. The purpose of the ACT is to measure a high

school student’s readiness for college and provide colleges with one common data point that can be used to compare all applicants.

“I am very proud of Tennyson; this was an impressive feat!” said Adrienne Basilio, 11thand 12th-grade school counselor.

This was Nelson’s first time taking the test. He earned a composite score of 36, which is the best possible score on the ACT. He said he took practice exams and had a tutor to help him prepare for the exam. He scored 1550 on the SAT.

“I would like to thank Mr. Pennell for his continued support,” said Nelson, who is a resident

of Landenberg. “I am glad that I don’t have to retake it.”

Nelson has attended Avon Grove Charter School since first grade. He is the treasurer and historian for the Tri-M music honor society, a member of DECA, treasurer for the National Honor Society, a member of the Academic Competition team, plays trombone and euphonium for the jazz band, and he fences.

After graduation, Nelson plans to major in aerospace engineering and attend Rice University, Carnegie Mellon University, California Institute of Technology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, or the University of Chicago.

Delaware County Community College names

Dr. Marta Yera Cronin as next president

Marta Yera Cronin, EdD, currently president of Columbia Gorge Community College in The Dalles, Oregon, has been selected by Delaware County Community College’s Board of Trustees to become the college’s next president.

Dr. Cronin will succeed L. Joy Gates Black, Ed.D., who will retire on June 30 of this year after six years of service to the college.

Dr. Cronin will be the college’s fifth president since its founding 55 years ago. She also will be the second woman and the first Latina to lead the college.

A highly respected higher education administrator and a first-generation college student born of immigrant parents, Dr. Cronin has over 30 years of experience in education. She has served in community colleges for more than two decades. Prior to her presidency at Columbia

Gorge Community College (CGCC), she served in various administrative and faculty roles at Indian River State College in Fort Pierce, Florida, including vice president of academic affairs, dean of the School of Education, department chair and full professor. She also has more than a decade of K-12 teaching experience in Florida.

Dr. Cronin was chosen by the Board of Trustees after an extensive national search to lead Delaware County Community College, which serves 16,000 credit and noncredit students annually. She will begin her post in July 2023.

“While we will miss the dynamic leadership of Dr. Gates Black, whose achievements during her tenure will positively impact the college and our students for years to come, Dr. Cronin’s long and successful career in

education, dedication to equity-related efforts and strong organizational and leadership skills will be great assets,” said Kevin Scott, chair, Delaware County Community College Board of Trustees.

“We look forward to a seamless transition.”

Passionate about inclusion, Dr. Cronin currently serves as co-chair of the Oregon Community College Association’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee, cochair of the board for the Oregon League of Minority Voters and president of the Comunidades board, a bi-state organization dedicated to advocating for and empowering Latino women and youth in the region. Under her leadership, CGCC secured funding for a $16.4 million capital project, which led to the design and construction of the Columbia Gorge Regional Skills Center and Chinook Residence Hall on the main campus in The Dalles, Oregon.

“I am humbled and honored to be appointed as the next president of Delaware County Community College,” said Cronin. “I am grateful for the opportunity to lead an institution that is so passionate about serving students and residents in Delaware

and Chester counties by providing quality educational programming and inclusive services. I look forward to joining the dedicated faculty, staff, administrators, board and community members as we collaboratively plan and work towards the college’s promising future.”

At Indian River State College, Cronin served on several Florida Department of Education committees and advisory groups, as the Florida Delegate for the American Association of Colleges for Teacher Education and on The American Association of Community Colleges’ Commission on Small and Rural Colleges. Currently, she serves on The Dalles Community Outreach Team, Hood River County Economic Development Group and is a board member on the Mid-Columbia Economic Development District board of directors and the Rural Community College Alliance board. Cronin has also been involved in several state and national COVID-19 recovery efforts, representing the college on the American Association of Community College/ National Governor’s Association Reskilling and Recovery Network and

Among the many awards Cronin has received over her 30-year career in education are a Phi Theta Kappa International Distinguished Advisor Award and a League for Innovation in the Community College

Innovation of the Year Award. Cronin holds a doctor of education degree with an emphasis on curriculum and instruction from the University of Sarasota, a master of science degree in reading from Barry University and a bachelor’s degree in French from the University of Miami.

Courtesy photo

Tennyson Nelson, a junior at Avon Grove Charter School, has earned a perfect ACT score.

Courtesy photo

Marta Yera Cronin has been selected by Delaware County Community College’s Board of Trustees to become the college’s next president. through Oregon Governor Brown’s North Central Region Equity in Recovery Council.

Chester County Economic Development Council hosts 19th annual Economic Outlook event

Approximately 150 business executives and personal investors gathered on Jan. 20 to hear expert insights on the local, national and global impacts of an unprecedented postCOVID-19 economy at the Chester County Economic Development Council’s 19th Annual Economic Outlook.

The must-attend suburban business event was held at Penn State Great Valley and featured Key Financial president and CEO Patti Brennan, CFP, and economic specialist Dianne P. Manges, CFA, a director and senior investment advisor for Truist Foundations & Endowments Specialty Practice.

“Two-thousand twenty-two was the year of surprise,” said Brennan, noting Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and supply chain issues continuing longer than anticipated. “As a result, inflation spiraled up quickly and the Federal Reserve had to be as aggressive in fighting inflation as it was in fighting the impact of COVID-19 during the global shutdown.”

Brennan said that 40 percent of inflation measurements are housing related. Since there is a 12to 18-month lag in this data being included in CPI, the nation’s economy is now dealing with the underlying inflation of 2020 and 2021 instead of what the data reflected back then. Supply chain issues are not back to pre-pandemic levels, but they are getting better, and an aggressive Fed policy is having its impact as well. She anticipates inflation

continue to come down in 2023.

“The final surprise of 2022 was how the bond market responded to rising rates,” Brennan said. “Since the Great Depression, we’ve only had three years where the bond market has been negative. Until last year, there has never been a year where the bond market was down double digits, yet we saw a loss of 13 percent in a bond index. Surprises move the economy and the markets negatively. It’s okay to be surprised, but we can be prepared for the surprises. Surprises can be positive ones, too, and it’s important not to miss out on those. Volatility is one thing. Many investors will never recover from opportunity cost.”

Brennan said one thing that wouldn’t be a surprise is a recession.

“It’s the most expected recession ever,” she said. “Businesses and consumers have been preparing for it, so the damage may not be

as severe. The numbers are showing that the American consumer has never been in better shape heading into a recession, and corporations also have very strong savings on their balance sheets. If we end up in a recession, we’re in good shape fundamentally to weather that storm.”

Manges said, “While recession risks for the next 12 months have risen sharply, in the U.S., a recession is not necessarily ‘baked in.’ Clearly, we have the tightest global monetary policy in 40 years, from the Fed to minor and major central banks tightening to fight inflation after a massive stimulus. But consumer spending is expected to be quite strong in 2023 and the labor market is tight. The American consumer has the potential to keep us above water.”

While concerns about Ukraine and China are top of mind for many investors concerned about recessionary pressures and sluggish

Oxford Educational Foundation receives donation from First Resource Bank

Courtesy photo First Resource Bank of Exton presented an Educational Improvement Tax Credit donation to the Oxford Educational Foundation in the amount of $7,500. The OEF is recognized as an Educational Improvement Organization by the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development. The EITC donation will be utilized for the approved programs which will benefit students in the Oxford Area School District. The programs are Early College Academy, Project REEL, Professional Grants to teachers that are STEM related, Chesapeake Bay Program and Band to Orchestra (addition of a Strings component). The Oxford Educational Foundation expressed its gratitude to the First Resource Bank for the donation.

growth, Manges pointed out that, together, the U.S. and Europe make up half of the global economy and will be the driving force for gauging health of the economy and policies in 2023. She’s cautiously optimistic about China’s President Xi Jinping beginning a third term and delivering GDP growth over 5 percent.

“He’s aggressive and competitive,” she said. “If he can get China back on firm footing, I would not be surprised to see some growth measures coming out of China. China could go either way, dependent upon President Xi stepping on the gas.”

Overall, Manges said diversified investment managers had been scaling back their asset allocation

slightly in global markets heading into 2023 with an aim to go higher once they see developed economies like the U.S., Germany and Great Britain on better footing.

Here at home, Brennan expects higher borrowing costs to continue and unemployment to pick up, so she advises people to keep their emergency funds flush. She also sees great opportunity for retirees and older workers.

“Retirees have had to tolerate more of their money in stocks, because bonds were paying minimal interest,” she said. “Now we have more options.”

Brennan also noted that empty nesters who are behind on their retirement planning can now put

$22,500 into their 401(k) plus another $7,500 each year.

“A couple of empty nesters who might feel a bit behind can put $60,000 into a 401(k) to catch up, and they should,” said Brennan.

The Chester County Economic Development Council continues its 2023 programming with the 11th Annual SEI Energy Briefing on Feb. 28, presented by CCEDC’s Smart Energy Initiative of Southeastern Pennsylvania and focusing on the impact of the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) on solar, electric vehicles (EV), geothermal and CHP. More information is at www.ccedcpa.com.

You can also view CCEDC’s interactive Annual Report at https://annual.ccedcpa.com.

Courtesy photos

The event featured Key Financial, Inc. President and CEO Patti Brennan and economic specialist Dianne P. Manges, a director and senior investment advisor for Truist Foundations & Endowments Specialty Practice. will

Approximately 150 business executives and personal investors gathered on Jan. 20 to hear expert insights on the local, national and global impacts of an unprecedented post-COVID economy at the Chester County Economic Development Council’s 19th Annual Economic Outlook.

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