Chester County Press 02-21-2024 Edition

Chester CountyPRESS

www.chestercounty.com

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

Volume 158, No. 8

Wednesday, February 21, 2024

$1.50

Oxford Borough Manager presents ‘State of the Borough’ report

By Betsy Brewer Brantner Contributing Writer Oxford Borough Manager Pauline Garcia-Allen presented her “State of the Borough” report to borough council and the public during the Feb. 5 council meeting.

Garcia-Allen, who is proficient at securing grants for

INSIDE

the borough, is also focused on ensuring the sustainability for the borough’s finances.

“We not only have to plan for the future, we have to ensure that we provide for our sustainability financially,” Garcia-Allen said. “It is important that the public’s needs are met and that we are transparent to the public and our staff. We have

to realize the importance of positioning ourselves so we can successfully secure grants. We want to use our tax dollars wisely, but also be aware of grants that are available.”

Garcia-Allen also emphasized the importance of having a full complement of employees, and to support the employees that they have.

“We have very experienced employees that the borough depends upon and we want to provide an atmosphere that encourages and supports them,” she explained.

The borough is now fully staffed and, as such, can offer much more availability to the public.

“We also know it is important to educate and involve

New roofs approved for two Kennett schools

the public,” she said. “We appreciate it when people show up for all of our meetings, and voice their concerns.”

The borough also continues to update the website, providing information in English and Spanish.

“The website and our meetings are vital to the education of our stakeholders. Anyone in the borough is always encouraged to attend our meetings. We are always looking for volunteers to serve on our boards.

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FROM OUR LENS Winter’s snapshot

U.S. Presidents: Men who forged a nation...1B

Photo by Chris Barber

Kennett High School sits ready for the installation of a new roof because the present one is 30 years old and shows signs of leaking. The Mary D. Lang Kindergarten Center will also get a new roof.

By Chris Barber Contributing Writer

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Unionville loses in PIAA playoffs...3B

The Kennett Consolidated School District Board turned its attention to the condition of buildings and their roofs at their Feb. 12 meeting.

After an extensive survey of the whole district, Facilities Manager Dave Brice told the board that both Mary D. Lang Kindergarten Center and Kennett High School roofs are more than 30 years old and will receive new roofs over the summer.

Both are projected to be completed by the start of the 2024-25 school year.

inches of insulation placed over the old roof. He said that will offer a savings of the expense of doing a “tear-off-and- replace.”

The cost of the two repairs is estimated at $5.4 million.

Tracy also presented an update on the construction of the two new replacement elementary schools, New Garden and Greenwood.

Both of the existing school buildings are more than 60 years old. New Garden was opened in 1957, and Greenwood was opened in 1963.

Both old schools will be demolished with the com-

Photo by Richard L. Gaw

For a few hours this past Saturday morning, southern Chester County was a canopy of white from the snow it received the night before. This photograph, taken along Broad Run Road in Landenberg, captures overhead trees dotted with snow and glistening above the White Clay Creek.

pletion of the new schools, which are each estimated for occupancy in 2026.

The preliminary elementary school buildings construction cost is estimated at $110 million.

Tracy said he was pleased to announce that Kennett Township had given approval to the Greenwood Elementary Land development plan. He added that the Continued on Page 3A

Lincoln University honors former professor, intros new documentary

By Richard L. Gaw Staff Writer The stories of two Lincoln University men converged in a presentation on Feb. 14 that explored the life of one whose idealisms have been documented and archived and one whose idealisms were cut tragically short.

Both events, held at the Wellness Center on campus, were part of the university’s series of public events celebrating Black History Month.

Moderated by interim Library Director Tiffany Davis and longtime professor Dr. Dwight Murph, the university announced that it will soon unveil the papers of former Lincoln University professor Dr. Charles V. Hamilton, as part of a digital archive collection that will soon become available from the Langston Hughes Memorial Library’s website (www.lincoln.edu/ langston-hughes-memorial-library) and lincoln. quartexcollections.com.

The documents were obtained by the university in 2022.

The collection – which when fully gathered will total more than 100 manuscripts, lectures and speeches, correspondence and photos -- will be used to aid scholarly research, academic curriculum and future conferences and symposiums related to Hamilton’s work.

Hamilton’s legacy extends far beyond his time as a professor at Lincoln dur-

ing the 1960s. A political scientist, scholar and early pioneer of civil rights, he is most known as the coauthor of Black Power: The Continued on Page 2A Courtesy image

On Feb. 14, Lincoln University announced that it will soon unveil the papers of former professor Dr. Charles V. Hamilton – who co-wrote the groundbreaking book Black Power: The Politics of Liberation – as part of a digital archive collection that will be housed at the Langston Hughes Memorial Library.

Oxford United Methodist Church’s Chocolate Festival returns March 9

By Marcella Peyre-Ferry Contributing Writer

© 2007 The Chester County Press

But that’s not all.

He said the high school auxiliary gym would receive a sanding down with new lines, and new LED lighting would be installed with future plans on renovating the halls.

District CFO Mark Tracy expanded on the projects with further explanations about the planned work.

He said that during the roof survey, they discovered substantial leaking with water found in the block walls of the gym.

The roof repair for the high school will actually be a “top coating” with two

The Oxford United Methodist Church is holding its annual Chocolate Festival on Saturday, March 9 from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. at the church’s Fellowship Hall.

Guests are invited to be a baker, a contestant, or a taster of chocolate creations

at this very popular event.

The contest takes place in the morning when entrants can bring their homemade treats for judging between 8:30 a.m. and 10 a.m. There are new categories for this year— cakes, cupcakes, candy/fudge, cookies other deserts, and items made by children 16 and under. All entries must include choco-

late. All entries are to be presented as a whole or a whole batch, such as a whole cake, a dozen cupcakes or a full batch of fudge. All entries must be presented in a disposable container. No containers will be returned.

No refrigerated items will be accepted.

After judging is completed, the entries will be divided

into separate servings along with a wide assortment of other chocolate treats donated by church and community members. These delicious items will be made available to ticket purchasers at one sample per ticket. Tickets are five for $5 – cash only.

Purchase tickets at the door starting at 1 p.m. and venture through the aisles

of chocolate goodies in the Fellowship Hall to find your favorites, but don’t debate too long. This is a popular event and items go fast, so it pays to be early. The event lasts until 3 p.m. or until all the items are sold out.

Containers will be provided.

Outside containers are not permitted.

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CHESTER COUNTY PRESS

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2024

Chester County Press

Local News Oxford Borough... by or call. The borough’s for engineering services to and clothing.

Continued from Page 1A

We want to make our website easy to access, and to make ourselves accessible to answer questions,” she stated.

The “State of the Borough” report is available on the website along with other useful information. The public is encouraged to check the site and, if they don’t see the information they are looking for, they can always stop

Lincoln University...

Continued from Page 1A

Politics of Liberation, originally published in 1967, which he co-wrote with Kwame Ture, then known as Stokely Carmichael. The groundbreaking book – which has since become a staple of the Black Power and civil rights movements -- gave insight into the roots of racism in the U.S. and presented ideas on how the political process could be reformed.

While at Lincoln, Hamilton wrote the book while he was a resident at the Amos House near the corner of Baltimore Pike and Ashmun Avenue, which is now being renovated through a $500,000 grant from the National Park Service’s African American Civil Rights Grant Program.

Once completed, the home will serve as a Heritage Center that will house memorabilia related to the history of the university.

While it is establishing the Hamilton archives, Lincoln University is also working on creating an archival collection for Lincoln University graduate and poet, social activist, novelist and playwright Langston Hughes, which Davis said could be completed in the next year.

Harlan B. Joseph Was Here The event also featured

business hours are Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Residents can also call the borough at 610-932-2500 if they have questions or suggestions.

In other business during the meeting, Oxford Borough Council approved Sycamore Crossing escrow release No. 2 for Phases 2 and 4, in the amount of $64,600.

Also approved was a Gannett Fleming proposal

oversee the procurement process of the borough-wide water meter technology upgrade project. The total for this work is not to exceed $27,000.

Aaron Karpas, the executive director at Neighborhood Services Center, gave an update on the status of the fire victims. He explained to council that although they have found homes for the victims, they are still supporting them with food, rent,

a presentation by two Princeton University professors who are collaborating on a project documenting the life of Harlan Joseph, a 19-year-old Lincoln University sophomore who was tragically shot and killed by a white police officer at a demonstration in Trenton, New Jersey on April 9, 1968 in the aftermath of the assassination of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., who was killed five days before.

Purcell Carson, a professor in the School of Public and International Affairs and a documentary filmmaker joined with history professor Alison Isenberg in introducing Harlan B. Joseph Was Here, an inprogress documentary that explores the turbulence that struck several U.S. cities following King’s assassination as told through Joseph’s emergence as a young leader and activist, whose life ended during his attempt to bring order and control to the chaos that was ensuing just a few blocks from his home.

The film combines more than 80 separate interviews with extensive research and archival online editions of The Lincolnian, the university newspaper -- is part of The Trenton Project, a collaborative documentary investigation between Carson’s students in her documentary film seminar and Trenton residents, institutions and community partners. The project

produces short films that provide a kaleidoscopic lens on the challenges Trenton faces, its ambitions for the future, and the many ways Trentonians are working together to weave and repair the fabric of the city.

The film has also been a seven-year collaboration with Isenberg, who is currently writing Uprisings, a book that also provides insight and history about Joseph.

Carson said that even though Princeton is separated from Trenton by a distance of only eight miles, a “great divide” exists between the Ivy League school and the oftentroubled inner city, which helped inspire the start of the project.

“Facing those questions and that inequality involved throwing ourselves into the mix, and I think that is what we are trying to do with this project,” she said. “I have learned so much about trying to be humble and listen, but I also think the saving grace is that my film is collecting the voices and making these interviews – mostly of Black Americans – available to public libraries and the Princeton archives, so that other communities can hear those stories in the future.

“Because we are working on this film about a person with whom we cannot speak, in our portrait of Harlan Joseph and by extension Lincoln University we are using a mosaic approach of working with community,” Carson added. “We’re using their voices to bring a world of 50 years ago back to life.”

The presentation provided newspaper clippings that documented the Trenton uprising, the swath of similar uprisings around the U.S., and included several Zoom interviews Carson and Isenberg conducted with Joseph’s classmates at Lincoln that provide a specific look into Joseph’s life

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“I think it will take more than a year for the families to recover from the horrific fire of September 13. We do thank all of the agencies that helped us and the borough. It was a collaborative effort,” Karpas said.

A hearing was held regarding the Oxford Borough Comprehensive Plan. There were no comments from council or the public about the plan. After coming out of the hearing, council

approved the adoption of a resolution regarding the plan, which is intended to provide long-range guidance for the municipality on topics such as land use, economic development, transportation, housing, community facilities, and resource protection.

Consequently, it defines a vision for Oxford Borough’s future which identifies existing conditions, and provides a series of actions to achieve that vision over the next ten years.

A draft of the plan is available for public review.

Mark Gallant, a senior community planner, was present at the council meeting to give an update on the Oxford Borough Comprehensive Plan, informing them that there are still some minor corrections being made to the draft version.

The next Oxford Borough Council meeting will be held on Feb. 26 at 7 p.m. at the Borough Hall.

Photos by Richard L. Gaw

The presentation highlighted an in-progress documentary film and book that will reflect the turbulence of inner-city demonstrations through the life of Joseph.

as well as a broad overview of the campus climate during the turbulent 1960s. His time on campus also intersected with Dr. Hamilton’s time at Lincoln University.

“For us, one of the most significant factors was that the year that Harlan Joseph spent his first year at Lincoln was the year that [Hamilton’s] Black Power: The Politics of Liberation was written on this campus,” Isenberg said.

‘He was a Lincoln man…’

In their re-telling of Joseph’s story, Carson and Isenberg pointed out the erroneous news accounts of the Trenton event. While the protestors were marching to call attention to ineffective administration and discriminatory practices in nearby high schools, news accounts erroneously reported that their main motivation was to loot. Pointing to the first sentence of one newspaper story that was superimposed on a large screen, Isenberg read, “’The authorities say that of the persons killed in the violence, 13 were shot while they were looting or died as a result of fires,’” she said. “I can tell you that there was no evidence that [the demonstrators] were looting.”

In a memorial service held at Lincoln University on

Princeton University professors Purcell Carson, left, and Alison Isenberg gave a presentation on Feb. 14 at Lincoln University that explored the life of Harlan Joseph, a Lincoln student in the 1960s who was killed by a police officer at a demonstration in Trenton, N.J. on April 9, 1968.

April 17, 1968, then university President Dr. Marvin Wachman said that Joseph “stood for the finest principles upon which Lincoln University rests. He was a Lincoln man and will be remembered as a Lincoln man. That his life was taken eight days ago represents a supreme irony. He stood for intergroup and interracial cooperation.”

In their research, Carson

and Isenberg have gathered a perception of Joseph that they said informs both the development of the book and the film.

“Harlan was described as a warm and centered person, who didn’t stand out in very loud ways, but it helped us understand that it was his context of pain that gave him his calmness,” Isenberg said. “It wasn’t just that he was a calm person, but he was a calm person who viewed himself in the context of difficult times.”

To learn more about the in-progress documentary Harlan B. Joseph Was Here, the book Uprisings and The Trenton Project, visit www. thetrentonproject.com.

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

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CHESTER COUNTY PRESS

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Chester County Press

Local News Roofs...

Continued from Page 1A

design for the building is about 30 percent complete, and that the land development approved plans were detailed with consideration even to exits, parking and tree placement.

At New Garden, he said, they are working with township committees and sewer contractors. There, passersby will soon see the beginnings of construction with the arrival of temporary fencing, electrical lines and five construction trailers.

For both new schools, the playgrounds are still being planned, and each playground will have some unique features. Both schools will have onsite sewage systems.

Meanwhile, the board has previously approved another construction project: a building expansion of the district

office.

In other business, the board approved three contracts with outside providers: • ProCare provides independent therapists upon request of the school. The reason, said board member Ethan Cramer, is that the district has been unable to employ its own school psychologist because of the scarcity of individuals qualified for that position.

• Cottage Seven Educations, a facility is in Phoenixville and provides services for chronic disruptive behavior and underachievement.

• Arbitor Sports handles the administration of recruiting, credentials, clearances, paying referees and certifications for sports teams – tasks the district previously handled itself. The enrollment in Arbitor Sports is $2,300, with an additional $2,300 for initial training.

Chocolate Festival...

Continued from Page 1A

Winners of the baking competition will be announced at 2 p.m.

Guests can also try their luck at guessing the number of candies in a jar, with the one coming the closest taking home the candy. Contact the church office at 610-932-9698 for additional information.

Proceeds from this event will go to the Oxford United Women in Faith for mission projects.

Another long-running popular event at the Oxford United Methodist Church is the annual Easter Egg sale. Individually boxed, half-pound, chocolate-covered and decorated Easter Eggs are made on site at the church by volunteers.

Courtesy photo

The Chocolate Festival Committee members are (in the foreground right, behind the cupcake) Sandy Day, (front row left to right) Jerry Dobbs, Paige Antonellis, Patsy Reese, Katie Heller, and (holding sign) Patty Fraver, and (back row left to right) Pattie Markley, Cathy Dubosque, Stephanie Brown, and Vickie Brown.

Flavors are Coconut Crème, Peanut Butter, Chocolate Nut and Butter Cream. They are sold only in advance by placing an order at 610-932-

4556. The final day to order is Sunday, Feb. 25.

Egg orders must be picked up Wednesday, March 20 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m and 4

to 6 p.m.

The Oxford United Methodist Church is located at 18 Addison Street in Oxford.

Lawmakers discuss future of artificial intelligence during House Majority Policy hearing Testimony featured from tech experts, medical professionals, educators Artificial intelligence was the topic of vast discussion at a Pennsylvania House Majority Policy Committee hearing on Feb. 13, including how it’s already impacting everyday life and what comes next.

The hearing was hosted

by State Representatives Chris Pielli (D-Chester), Bob Merski (D-Erie), and Jenn O’Mara (D-Delaware).

It featured testimony from tech experts, medical professionals, and educators who discussed the differ-

ent ways in which artificial intelligence has influenced their fields, and how they’re preparing to utilize it in the future.

“As we delve into the world of artificial intelligence, it is crucial that we acknowledge not only the immense potential, but also the very real and pressing concerns that accompany this transformative technology,” said Pielli.

“Conversations like these can help us craft thoughtful policies that promote innovation while safeguarding

the interests, rights, and wellbeing of our constituents.”

Tyler Clark, the director of State and Government Affairs at Microsoft, kicked off the hearing by testifying about Microsoft’s use of artificial intelligence, specifically about programs available to the public.

Members like Merski noted AI’s uses for good, but also pointed out the ways it can be used nefariously.

“Artificial intelligence can be fun and useful, but it can also be dangerous. People

can do things now with AI that they’ve never been able to before,” said Merski. “We need to make sure we’re doing everything we can to protect consumers from the criminal and villainous uses of AI.” The hearing also featured testimony from Dr. Chandan Sen and Dr. Deeptankar Demazumder, both representing the McGowan Institute for Regenerative Medicine. They testified how AI can be used positively in the medical field, from

diagnosing diseases years in advance to filling prescriptions. Dr. Richard Burns of West Chester University, Samuel Hodge Jr. of Temple University, and Michael Soskil, an elementary STEM teacher at Wallenpaupack South Elementary School rounded out the hearing by testifying about various AI uses in classrooms and everyday life.

“The future is going to involve artificial intelligence one way or another, so we need to make sure we’re

handling this correctly,” said House Majority Policy Chairman Ryan Bizzarro (D-Erie). “Clearly, there are both helpful and harmful effects of AI. The testimony we heard today will help us make informed decisions in the future on how we can help maximize the positive and minimize the negative through legislation.”

More information about this hearing and other House Majority Policy Committee hearings can be found at pahouse.com/policy.

Raising the bar for healthcare.

Your primary care provider can be one of the most important choices you make after age 65. Ask Steve Solotist.

Neil Patel, MD, &KLHI +HDOWK 2I¿FHU 3DWLQD Steve Solotist, 70, is a lifelong musician with a variety of hobbies and interests. Between building plastic models, watching hockey games and playing guitar with the Philly Blues Kings, Steve has exacting standards for what good healthcare looks like – and doesn’t have time to waste.

So when his former primary care practitioner (PCP) beFDPH OHVV DQG OHVV DFFHVVLEOH KH NQHZ KH QHHGHG WR ¿QG a new provider. He’s now a patient at Patina, the primary care practice I founded just for adults 65 and older.

Patina focuses on highly personal, proactive and conYHQLHQW FDUH ± PDQ\ RI WKH VDPH SULQFLSOHV \RX¶G ¿QG in concierge medicine – but we provide it through most Medicare plans, with no extra costs. Steve’s experience shows how important it is to have a PCP who delivers the care you deserve as you age.

What were your expectations of your former PCP? I expected that my PCP was a good clinician, and had a degree of thoroughness because usually I was only visiting with her when there was an issue or for regularly scheduled physicals. I also expected accessibility, which changed during the COVID-19 pandemic. It became a lot harder to get a sick visit and to schedule regular appointments. There was a three-month wait time to get a physical. I began to feel edged out.

“The accessibility and proactivity of the care team, in combination with their focus on adults 65+, is where Patina really shines. The only other

+RZ GRHV 3DWLQD GL̆HU IURP \RXU SUHYLRXV SULmary care experience?

There’s a high degree of interaction and proactivity. I see someone a few times a year – one full physical and to go over blood work every six months, but there’s ongoing monitoring. Patina stays on top of you – they really shoulder that responsibility. Plus, I’m in touch with them for more day-to-day, simple needs – renewals, maybe some questions about some symptoms I’m having or if I’m not feeling well.

My PCP Michelle and the team have become familiar with me, so they’ll be able to see any declines in my cognitive abilities, and changes in mood, personality, and behavior. And I think in this age group, that’s really, really important.

Patina’s approach is to bring care to its patients. $OO FDUH LV SURYLGHG WKURXJK YLUWXDO DQG DW KRPH YLVLWV :KDW DUH \RXU WKRXJKWV RQ WKH WHFKQRORJ\ elements of care?

That’s easy – care is a slam dunk. We typically do video visits. I use both the mobile app and my computer depending on where I am or what the purSRVH RI WKH FRQWDFW LV , DSSUHFLDWH WKH ÀH[LELOLW\ I primarily use my laptop just because the keyboard function is larger and easier versus my mobile phone.

The app itself is also easy. I just sent a message to my health champion, Luis, this morning that I needed a renewal on one of my meds because the renewal from the prescription from my prior PCP ran out. He’s getting in touch with Michelle (my current Patina PCP) to take care of it.

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Yeah. Since becoming a Patina patient, I’m much more relaxed. I don’t have to drive into the city to see my PCP. I don’t have to worry about trying to get a sick appointment and I don’t have to wait days just to get a callback.

That’s a lot of burdens that have been lifted and I’m truly grateful.

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What would you say to people about Patina?

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practice for no extra cost.”

-Steve Solotist | Patina patient

If there’s any hesitation they should take the leap of faith because I did and I’m fussy! I’ve always had great accessibility to care – I know good docs and bad docs from my own personal experience. I have high stan-

“I have high standards when it comes to your health and am very happy with my care,” says Steve Solotist, Patina patient. dards when it comes to your health and am very happy with my care.

Patina is a primary care practice for people ages 65+ in Chester, Bucks, Delaware, Montgomery and Philadelphia counties. We’re in-network with most major Medicare and Medicare Advantage plans. There are no membership fees or extra costs beyond your current PCP copay. Visit patinahealth.com or call (800) 476-7992 to schedule an appointment. We’re excited to meet you!

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CHESTER COUNTY PRESS

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2024

Chester County Press

Local News Former Chester County Commissioner Michelle Kichline joins Lamb McErlane After serving nine years as a Chester County Commissioner, Michelle H. Kichline has joined Lamb McErlane PC as Of Counsel. She will focus her practice on municipal and government law, as well as litigation.

During her time as Commissioner, Kichline served as the Chair of the Board and the Chair of the County Election Board.

She developed regional planning expertise while serving on the Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission (DVRPC) and garnered experience

in transportation related issues as a board member on the Greater Valley Forge Transportation Management Association (GVF) and Transportation Management Association of Chester County (TMACC).

Kichline's service as a board member on both the Delaware River Port Authority and on the Regional Advisory Committee III for the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) give her valuable insight into multi state governmental operations. Her work as a board member of the County

Commissioners Association of Pennsylvania (CCAP) has broadened her knowledge of all aspects of county government.

Her time as both Chair of the Tredyffrin Township Board of Supervisors and the Chair of its Zoning Hearing Board makes her one of the few attorneys in the region with local, county and state government experience as an elected official.

“I know Michelle had multiple suitors, and am thrilled she chose to join us,” said Joel L. Frank, Lamb McErlane’s Chairman and Managing Partner. “There

are not many attorneys who possess the diversification and sophistication of experience that Michelle does.

Those attributes certainly will serve our clients well.”

Kichline’s leadership in the business and transportation communities has been recognized by multiple organizations. She received the Leadership Award for Elected Service from the Greater Valley Forge Transportation Association; the Senator Robert J. Thompson Public Service Award from the Exton Regional Chamber of Commerce and the

Helena Devereux Women in Leadership award from the Main Line Chamber of Commerce.

“I am eager to continue my career with Lamb McErlane, one of the most well-regarded law firms in the region,” said Kichline.

“I am looking forward to bringing my unique perspective and knowledge to assist the firm and its clients, as well as continuing my community and regional involvement.”

Lamb McErlane PC is a full service regional law firm based in West Chester, with additional offices in

Courtesy photo

Former Chester County Commissioner Michelle H. Kichline has joined Lamb McErlane as Of Counsel.

Michelle will focus her practice on municipal and government law, as well as litigation.

Philadelphia, Newtown Square, Oxford, Exton and Mount Laurel, N.J.

New Chester County Spelling Bee champion crowned Charan Garimella, an Owen J. Roberts Middle School student, won first place in the 2024 Chester County Spelling Bee on Feb. 7.

Garimella spelled his way to victory with the winning word “monotreme” (M-O-NO-T-R-E-M-E). His victory qualifies him to represent the Chester County region this spring at the Scripps National Spelling Bee in National Harbor, Md. Also placing in this year’s Chester County Spelling Bee was Luke Spano from Penn’s Grove School, who placed second. Aelita Lutsik from Pennsylvania Leadership

Charter School and Aryahi Khale from Valley Forge Middle School tied for third place.

Each student earned the invitation to compete in the Chester County Spelling Bee by achieving first place in their individual school’s spelling bee. Over 40 students competed in the event and spelled their way through more than 200 words.

Students prepared for the county competition by studying Scripps-provided word lists and practicing at home.

“I started my preparation a bit early, around the end of October, and practiced one

or two hours a day,” said Garimella. “I used a website where I could listen to the word pronunciations, read the definitions, spell them and write them down.”

His practice paid off and now Garimella is qualified to compete at the national level.

When asked what advice he would give to future spelling bee participants, he said, “Practice, practice, practice!

Starting as early as possible puts you in a better position.”

As champion, Garimella received the Samuel Louis Sugarman Award certificate, a one-year subscription to Merriam-

Webster Unabridged Online, a one-year subscription to Encyclopedia Britannica Online and a $50 Barnes & Noble gift card. The secondplace winner received an UpWords board game, the Merriam-Webster Collegiate Dictionary a $35 Barnes & Noble gift card, and the thirdplace winners each received a Scrabble board game and a $20 Barnes & Noble gift card.

“The Chester County Spelling Bee helps participants to hone their linguistic skills while building their confidence in public speaking,” said Jay Della Ragione,

special events coordinator for the Chester County Intermediate Unit (CCIU).

“It also offers the students a sense of camaraderie. Even though it is an individual competition, the participants encourage each other, whether they move forward or do not.”

The Chester County Spelling Bee is a qualifying competition for the Scripps National Spelling Bee, where competitors from across the country gather to spell their way to the top. The 2024 Chester County Spelling Bee was coordinated by the CCIU and sponsored by CCRES.

Courtesy photo

Charan Garimella of Owen J. Roberts Middle School is the champion of the 2024 Chester County Spelling Bee.

To learn more about the Chester County Spelling Bee, visit www.cciu.org/SpellingBee or contact Jay Della Ragione at 484-237-5053 or JayD@cciu.org.

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

Editorial

A mayor’s milestone, a mayor’s legacy In 2022, the Chester County Community Foundation established a visionary award to recognize individuals whose civic engagement, community service and charitable philanthropy light the way and inspire others. Its recipients are bridge builders, door openers, public servants and visionaries, creating futures that up to the point of their contribution had been only imagined ones. A powerful leader, the Foundation wrote, “empowers others to be the change they wish to see in the world.”

To the surprise of no one, the Foundation gave the recognition an official name: the Honorable Dr. Clifford E. DeBaptiste Visionary Award. For DeBaptiste, who will celebrate his 100th birthday on May 19, translating the phrase “uplifting life through service” has served not just as a personal motto but as an active sense of responsibility.

In 1954, after serving in the U.S. Army and graduating from mortuary school, DeBaptiste and his wife Inez made West Chester their home, where they raised a family and operated the successful DeBaptiste Funeral Homes. But that was not enough for DeBaptiste; he was also a tireless elected official and a community advocate, dedicating thousands of hours in the service of the town he loved, imagining West Chester as a better place – a revitalized and safer borough.

Beginning in 1994, he campaigned for – and was elected to – two terms as West Chester’s first African American mayor. While in office, he championed the need to strengthen the police department through promotions and new hires and saw it grow by nearly 50 percent during his tenure.

At a time when West Chester was seeing the mass exodus of commercial businesses to the outer suburbs, DeBaptiste and others helped to encourage new businesses to come to the borough, leading to a rebirth of the downtown district that now reverberates with a vibrancy of stores and restaurants.

In honor of Black History Month and the soon-to-be occasion his 100th birthday, Rep. Chrissy Houlahan honored DeBaptiste with a speech last week on the U.S. House floor in Washington, D.C. She praised him for his 70 years of selfless service to the community and called hm “a beloved figure in the community.”

“His work revitalized West Chester’s downtown and led to incredible growth for local businesses, with the number of restaurants in the borough rising from 15 to 57 during his term,” Houlahan said. “Since his retirement, he has remained active in our local community, and we are so grateful for his contributions and those of his daughter, Lillian, who followed in his footsteps and is the current Mayor of West Chester.”

To our credit – and perhaps to our detriment -- our nation is drawn to those who hold us spellbound with the execution of their talents, the amplification of their accomplishments and the magnitude of their resilience. And yet, most of our nation’s grandest work has been achieved by those who are blessed to be in a position of influence and perform quietly, in the enclaves of small towns, with no self-aggrandizing fanfare. They are inspired to do nothing but draw back the curtain and open the door and reveal the possibility of the change they wish to see in the world and ask others to follow them.

In the weeks leading up to what will be his 100th birthday, let us acknowledge and praise the ongoing legacy of Dr. DeBaptiste in the hopes that it will be magnified and eventually duplicated.

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Opinion Chester County Commissioners demonstrate hands-only CPR, recognizing American Heart Month When a Valentine’s Day public meeting includes the recognition of American Heart Month, what better way to highlight both than to demonstrate a heart-saving, potentially life-saving technique?

At the Feb. 14 public meeting, Chester County Commissioners Josh Maxwell, Marian Moskowitz, and Eric Roe proclaimed the county’s recognition of American Heart Month and practiced hands-only CPR on three adult-size Manikins, guided by members of the Chester County Department of Emergency Services.

Support from the county’s emergency medical services (EMS) professionals included playing the Bee Gee’s 1977 classic “Stayin’ Alive,” used in CPR training because it is the perfect song for hitting the 100 to 120 beats per minute that is ideal for chest compressions.

According to the American Red Cross, hands-only CPR involves two crucial steps for helping a person suffering a cardiac arrest. Step one - call 9-1-1, and step two – perform chest compressions at a rate of 100 to 120 beats per minute, which, as noted, is more

Courtesy photo

Chester County Commissioners Eric Roe, Chair Josh Maxwell and Marian Moskowitz demonstrate hands-only CPR under the instruction of Chester County EMS Operations coordinator Larry Smythe (right) at the Feb. 14 public meeting. At the meeting, the County Commissioners proclaimed February as American Heart Month.

easily measured by relating to the tempo of “Stayin’ Alive.”

Each year, more than 350,000 EMS-assisted outof-hospital cardiac arrests occur in the United States, and when a person has a cardiac arrest, survival depends on immediately receiving CPR from someone nearby.

Harry Moore, the Chester County deputy director for EMS, said, “Thanks to many EMS agencies and

non-profits throughout the county, there are opportunities year-round for residents of all ages to learn HandsOnly CPR. “The more people we train, the greater the possibility of saving the life of someone who has gone into cardiac arrest, and as more than 70 precent of out-ofhospital cardiac arrests happen in homes, learning hands-only CPR could help save the life of someone you love – a child, a spouse,

a parent, or friend.”

The following EMS agencies in Chester County provide Hands-Only CPR training: Good Fellowship Ambulance & EMS Training Institute (https:// www.goodfellowship.com/ training/community-education), Uwchlan Ambulance Corps & Training Institute (https://station87.com/education), and Emergency Training Academy (https:// www.emergencytraining. pro).

Pa. House Republicans launch initiatives to help state’s small businesses, entrepreneurs Recognizing governmental burdens should never deter Pennsylvanians from pursuing their own path to prosperity, House Republicans are pushing the Legislature to act on the “Main Street Entrepreneurship Initiative.” The package of bills, led by House Commerce Committee Republican Chair Rep. Joe Emrick (R-Northampton), would make the dream of owning one’s own business, and growing it here in Pennsylvania, more accessible for every person in the Commonwealth.

“Entrepreneurs and small business owners are the backbone of our communities,” Emrick said. “They are the ones investing in our Main Streets, hiring our friends and neighbors, and making our communities great places to live. We owe it to every Pennsylvanian to make it as simple as possible to chase their dream and grow their business.”

According to a national

study of new businesses and start-ups, Pennsylvania’s rate of entrepreneurship is nearly 50 percent lower than the national average and has been stagnant below the national average for more than 25 years.

To address this growing concern, and in recognition of National Entrepreneurship Week, House Republicans introduced the following legislation: • Business Filing Fee Waiver (Rep. Joe D’Orsie, R-York): Would waive the filing fees for first-time entrepreneurs during the business formation process through the Department of State.

• Stay in PA Business Grants and Loans Fee Waiver (Rep. Donna Scheuren, R-Montgomery): Would require businesses receiving grants and loans through the Commonwealth to maintain operations and employees within the Commonwealth.

• Commonwealth Pro-

curement Possibilities for New Entrepreneurs (Rep. Mike Armanini, R-Clearfield/Elk): Would establish a “set-aside” within the existing program to target small and disadvantaged businesses established within the prior three years.

• New Business Ombudsman (Emrick): Would establish a start-up ombudsman in the One-Stop Shop Office within the Department of Community and Economic Development to assist startup businesses with securing the necessary documents and accounts needed to operate in Pennsylvania.

• Spearheading Entrepreneurship Education (Rep. Marla Brown, R-Lawrence): Would establish a statewide program to fund entrepreneurship education at community colleges, the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education and colleges that provide technical training.

• Fair Protections for Entrepreneurs (Scheuren): Would modernize the bankruptcy exemption statute to provide fair protections for entrepreneurs’ assets, including primary residences and other necessities of life.

“For the vast majority of Pennsylvanians, the path to prosperity is found on Main Street, not Wall Street,” Emrick said. “These are common sense steps to ensure job creators who want to improve opportunities here can do so, and not continue to cross state lines to places where it is easi-

er to turn your ideas into businesses that can have a multi-generational impact.”

House Republicans have an extensive track record of working to reduce the burden on job creators, leading to large-scale investment across multiple sectors of our economy. This package of legislation proves small business owners and entrepreneurs will continue to be a top priority for the caucus.

“As someone with nearly 30 years of business experience in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, I know how important and how valuable entrepreneurs are to our state’s model for success,” said Scheuren. “That’s why within this package of bills, I’ve proposed two pieces of legislation that protect entrepreneurs and businesses in Pennsylvania. My first piece of legislation would require businesses receiving loans and grants from the Commonwealth, to commit to staying here.

“My second proposed bill would modernize Pennsylvania’s bankruptcy exemption statute to provide fair protections for entrepreneurs’ assets, including primary residences and other necessities of life. Entrepreneurs are one of Pennsylvania’s greatest assets and their existence is vital to our state’s ability to grow and evolve for the better.

“Therefore, I sincerely hope this legislative package will keep both in Pennsylvania and help to open even more doors to economic prosperity.”

6A

CHESTER COUNTY PRESS

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2024

Chester County Press

In the Spotlight

Section

B

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2024

L IV I N G H I S TORY

by Gene Pisasale

U.S. Presidents: Men who forged a nation

By Gene Pisasale Contributing Writer In the nearly 236 years since our nation came to life under the Constitution, we have had 46 chief executives leaving their mark on the country. While all of them, in some way, influenced the course of social, economic and political trends which forged our heritage, it is worth taking a closer look at a select group of them who left an indelible imprint.

As we reflect on their actions—their successes and failures—we come to better comprehend this experiment in representative democracy we call America.

Although New York and Pennsylvania are two of the most successful and populated states, roughly one-third of our Presidents have come from Virginia (8) and Ohio (7). A handful of these men were responsible for delineating the geographic boundaries of what would become the 50 United States. Without George Washington’s persistence, guidance, and leadership, not only would we have lost the Revolutionary War, the Constitution may never have been ratified.

The original 13 states comprising the majority of the Eastern Seaboard were the result. Although he had no children of his own, his efforts ‘gave birth’ to America, which is why he is affection-

ately called the “Father of Our Country.”

Thomas Jefferson’s Louisiana Purchase in 1803 was a pretty good deal—$15 million paid to France for 530,000,000 acres, or roughly 2.8 cents an acre. It included parts of 14 states, and the northern border even extended into Canada.

Despite being highly controversial, President James Polk’s approval of the annexation of Texas in 1845—and winning the Mexican-American War (1846-1848)—gained much of what would become the Southwest, parts of 10 states including California, Nevada, Utah, Arizona and New Mexico, as well as nearby territory.

The U.S. almost lost 11 states which seceded shortly after Abraham Lincoln was elected President in 1860. Only a brutal and bloody Civil War returned them, and restored a highly fractured Union. People started thinking differently about the country. Before the Civil War, many people said “The United States are…” Afterwards, as a restored Union, they said “The United States is…”

President Andrew Johnson’s purchase of Alaska from Russia in 1867 was initially derided as a mistake by his Secretary of State— “Seward’s Folly”—but aforementioned earlier acquisitions and this northern region added enormous natural

Portrait of George Washington by Gilbert Stuart.

resources (timber, crude oil, natural gas, copper, lead, zinc, gold, silver and many other materials) to a growing nation. At the time, the enormous size and importance of Alaska did not occur to most Americans. Today Alaska represents more than onesixth of the entire United States.

Because it was such a monumental event, historians for decades have analyzed the Civil War and the events which caused it. President James Buchanan—up until recently the only President from Pennsylvania— had an interesting take on secession which occurred on his watch. Although an experienced attorney highly familiar with the Constitution, Buchanan felt the government had no legal rights in the matter and was powerless to do anything to stop rebel states from seceding.

Interestingly, he was personally opposed to slavery, but said in his last Annual Message to Congress: “All that is necessary (regarding slavery) and all for which the slave states have ever contended, is to be let alone and be permitted to manage their domestic institutions in their own way.” In what appears to be a clear legal contradiction, Buchanan—the trained lawyer—was in effect saying: “They can’t

Acquisitions creating the United States of America.

Wheatland, President James Buchanan’s home in Lancaster, Pennsylvania.

secede, but we can’t stop them.”

His inaction allowed a conflict which took the lives of 600,000 people, or roughly two percent of the population. The equivalent today would be more than 6 million people dying, an unthinkable catastrophe. In contrast, Lincoln— through his nearly Herculean efforts to save the Union—is today rated as one of our very best chief executives.

Some Presidents took questionable steps to aid the growing country. Theodore Roosevelt was dead-set on building

A cartoon showing Theodore Roosevelt ‘digging’ the Panama Canal in 1903, courtesy the New York Herald.

A political cartoon from 1863 protesting the Emancipation Proclamation.

Eisenhower with the 101st Airborne on June 5, 1944, just before the D-Day invasion.

A photograph of President Lincoln taken on November 8, 1863 by Alexander Gardner.

a passageway through central America to aid international shipping.

Although the territory was claimed by Colombia, Roosevelt pushed through a deal to acquire the land for constructing the Panama Canal. He even went down there and sat on a steam-shovel to help dig the terrain. The project was an enormous benefit not only to the U.S., but for international commerce for dozens of nations around the world.

Some men who came into office didn’t even want the job. Warren Harding was not at all interested in becoming President, but party officials rammed his nomination through, and in 1920, he was elected. Others supported policies and programs which altered the course of our nation in more subtle ways. Dwight Eisenhower’s proposal for the modern interstate highway system changed the way—and the many places—where Americans work, play and live their

A check for $7.2 million written to Russia for the purchase of Alaska.

daily lives.

Despite changing attitudes and perceptions over many decades, one thing is clear: only the passage of time allows us the perspective to fully understand the influence on the development of our country our Presidents have had.

Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation was initially harshly criticized.

Today it is considered one of the most important and beneficial actions ever taken by any chief executive. After he left office, Eisenhower was rated in the bottom-third of all U.S. Presidents; now historians list him in the Top Ten. So, as you think about President’s Day and what it means, consider the nearly four dozen individuals whose efforts—in varying ways—brought our nation to where it is today.

Gene Pisasale is an historian, author and lecturer based in Kennett Square. His 11 books focus mostly on the history of the Chester County/midAtlantic region. Gene’s latest book is Heritage of the Brandywine Valley, a beautifully illustrated hardcover book with over 250 images showcasing the fascinating people, places and events of this region over more than 300 years. His books are available on his website at www.GenePisasale.com and also on www.Amazon. com. Gene can be reached via e-mail at Gene@ GenePisasale.com.

2B

CHESTER COUNTY PRESS

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2024

Chester County Press

Obituaries STEVEN W. DALESSIO Steven W. Dalessio, formerly of Weymouth, Mass., joined his wife in heaven on Feb. 8, 2024. Born in Quincy, Mass., he was the son of the late Elio and Stella Dalessio.

He was the husband of the late Sandra (McGuire) Dalessio, with whom he shared over 30 years of marriage. He is survived by his two daughters, Nichole Cardarople and Danielle Dalessio, his sister, Suzanne Velis, his grandchildren and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Steve was employed at the Brockton Post Office for many years. He enjoyed spending time with his wife and his beloved dogs, Dutchess and Snowball. He had a lifelong passion for the Boston Red Sox, the New England Patriots and the Rolling Stones. He enjoyed the beach and watching westerns on television. In his earlier years, he enjoyed playing trumpet and guitar and performing with his band, “The Rebel Kind.”

The family would like to thank the entire staff at Ware Presbyterian Village in Oxford and Willow Tree Hospice for their outstanding care and support.

A gathering to celebrate Steve’s life will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to LaMancha Animal Rescue, PO Box 656, Unionville, Pa. 19375.

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

JAMES EDWARD AKEHURST, JR. James Edward Akehurst, Jr., age 66, passed away on Feb. 7, 2024 while at home in Newark, Del. Born on Dec. 19, 1957 in West Chester, he was the son of the late James E. Akehurst, Sr. and Esther M. Akehurst (nee Neide).

James was intelligent, generous, kind, and funny. His warm personality and shining sense of humor always made others feel welcome. James was an avid lover and collector of vintage treasures and antiques—a profession he enjoyed sharing with others in his community.

In his free time, he loved playing and listening to music, exploring his love of history, taking his motorcycle out for a ride, and spending time laughing with his family and friends.

James is survived by loving wife, Angela R. Knight, daughter, Amanda R. Akehurst, sisters, Linda L. Riley and Della M. Akehurst, and a brother, John P. Akehurst.

Services were held on Feb. 18 at Schoenberg Memorial Chapel, 519 Philadelphia Pike, in Wilmington, Del. The family suggests contributions in James’ memory to the American Cancer Society (www.cancer.org).

Alleluia Those who seek the Lord lack no good thing.

Psalm 34:10 The Chester County Press features a dedicated church/religious page that can help you advertise your house of worship and/or business. The page is updated weekly with new scripture. Only $10 Weekly for this space.

We are offering a special discount of 25% off each and every help wanted/ classified advertisement to any business that advertises on the PRESS church page.

Additional Obituaries on Page 5B

ROBERT J. HALLMAN Robert “Bob” Hallman passed away peacefully on Feb. 1, 2024 with his family by his side.

Bob was born on June 2, 1949 in Ridley Park, Pa. Bob is survived by Jane, his wife of 54 years, three children, 7 grandchildren and two great-grandsons.

Services were held on Feb. 9 at the Sacred Heart Church in Oxford.

Interment was in Oxford Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to St. Jude’s Children Hospital, https://www.stjude.org/ donate.

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

CHARLES HENDERSON Charles Henderson, a resident of Oxford, passed away at home on Feb. 8, 2024. He was 76.

He was the son of the late Everitt and Elizabeth Spahn Henderson.

Charles was employed as an editor for the Chester County Press and was previously employed with Acme markets in Pike Creek, Del. as a baker.

He is survived by his nephew, John Sagers (Lisa) of Quarryville.

A memorial service will be held at 1 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 23 at the Edward L. Collins, Jr. Funeral Home, Inc. at 86 Pine St. in Oxford.

Interment will be private.

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

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WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2024

CHESTER COUNTY PRESS

3B

Chester County Press

Local News Council Rock South edges Unionville, 43-40 in PIAA playoff hoops tilt

By Richard L. Gaw Staff Writer There is not a sports team anywhere on the globe – professional, amateur or anywhere in between – that enjoys losing in front of a home crowd, and for the Unionville girls varsity basketball team, coming into their opening round PIAA Class 6A District 1 playoff game on Feb. 16, they had hoped to kick off their playoff season run with a win in front of their home crowd.

While they came very close to achieving that first hurdle, a last-second three-point attempt to tie the score in the fourth quarter fell short and ended their 2023-24 season with a 43-40 loss to visiting Council Rock South.

For Head Coach Fred Ellzy’s Longhorn squad, coming into the game with a 15-8 overall record and a

Elle Johnson played an effective part in Unionville’s transition game that led to several fast-break baskets.

No. 15 seeding gave them a slight edge over the visiting Golden Hawks, who were seeded 18th and entered the contest with an 11-8 overall mark. Yet as the game began, the Longhorns reeled off consecutive turnovers on their first four possessions and were scoreless until Savannah Lang’s layup with 5:40 left in the quarter. After a Shannon Megill basket with 5 minutes remaining, Lang’s second layup of the quarter gave Unionville a 6-3 lead with 4:38 remaining.

On the defensive end, the Longhorns held the patient, perimeter offense of Council Rock South to one-shot possessions that put the ball into the hands of playmaker Elle Johnson, who engineered Unionville’s transition game into a 12-5 lead at the end of the first quarter.

While a three-pointer by Council Rock South guard Sarah Freeman cut the Longhorn lead to 12-8 at the start of the second quar-

ter, Johnson’s two buckets jumped the Longhorns to an 18-12 lead with 3:48 left in the first half. A three-pointer by the Golden Hawks’ Haley Thompson slimmed down the Unionville lead with 45 seconds left, but a basket

by Milana Amoss sent the Longhorns into halftime with a comfortable 20-15 advantage.

Beginning the second half, the question remained whether Unionville would continue to counter the Golden Hawks’ ball-controlled offense with its fast-break pace. The answer came in the form of Council Rock South guard Liz Metrick’s second threepointer with two minutes gone in the third quarter that chopped the Unionville lead to one point, 23-22 and led to the Golden Hawks outscoring their opponents 14-10 in the third quarter.

Suddenly, what had been a comfortable lead for Unionville was now a

Photos by Richard L. Gaw

Unionville’s Shannon Megill tries to find an open teammate in the Longhorns’ 43-40 loss to visiting Council Rock South in the opening round of the PIAA Class 6A District 1 playoff game on Feb. 16.

one-point deficit beginning the final quarter, with the season in the line. The last eight minutes of the game served as a back-and-forth tussle of matching baskets whose scoring did not begin until the 5:19 mark, when Council Rock South’s Kathryn O’Kane drove through the lane to give her team a 31-30 lead. It was promptly answered by a two-pointer by Lang and followed by a backdoor layup by the Golden Hawks’ Fiona Reckner that gave her team a one-point lead with 4:35 remaining.

With 3:09 left, Lang’s bank shot was immediately countered by Metrick’s third three-pointer of the Unionville’s Izzy Della Barba spots an open teammate game that pushed Council in the third quarter.

Rock South’s lead to 38-35 with 3:09 remaining. After a Unionville in-bounds pass was intercepted, the Golden Hawks began to eat up the clock with perimeter passes which forced the Longhorns to foul, that sent Metrick to the line where she converted one of two free throws that jumped Council Rock South to a four-point advantage.

Following a timeout with 29 seconds left, Amoss’ floater in the lane got Unionville to within two, but in the ensuing in-bounds, Council Rock broke Unionville’s press and forced another foul, sending O’Kane back to the line where she sank two free throws. After a three-point play by Johnson brought the score to 41-39 with 7

seconds left, O’Kane was fouled on the in-bounds pass and sank both free throws to give Council Rock a three-point advantage with 5 seconds remaining.

Unionville made a lastsecond effort to tie the score on a desperate heave by Megill but the shot did not get off before the buzzer.

With the win, Council Rock South will face No. 2 seed Conestoga on Feb. 21, led by high scorers Reckner and Metrick, who racked up 11 points each. Unionville was led by Lang, Amoss and Johnson with 10 points apiece.

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

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4B

CHESTER COUNTY PRESS

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2024

Chester County Press

Legals

ESTATE NOTICE

Estate of Marcia C. Gregory aka Marcia Gregory aka Marcy Gregory, Deceased. Late of East Goshen Twp., 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 Erin C. Duffy, Executrix, 499 N. Grimes Hill Rd., Granville, NY 12832 or to their attorney Steven T. Hanford, Esquire, Hanford Professional Corp., 344 West Union Street, West Chester, PA 19382.

2p-7-3t

PUBLIC NOTICE

PENNSBURY TOWNSHIP ZONING HEARING BOARD NOTICE is hereby given that the Zoning Hearing Board of Pennsbury Township will hold a Public Hearing at the Pennsbury Township Building, 702 Baltimore Pike, Chadds Ford, Pennsylvania, on March 4, 2024, at 7:00 p.m. at which time the Board will hear the following matter: In re: Application of Kelly Lewis Bley and Jean Kouao Bley seeking variances from the 15% maximum impervious coverage limit under Zoning Ordinance Section 162-503.C.1 and from the 50-foot minimum setback requirement under Ordinance Section 162-2002.A.3 so as to permit the construction of a residential swimming pool, coping, concrete pool deck, patio, walkway, pool equipment pad, retaining wall and subsurface seepage bed on property located at 8 Penn Drive, West Chester, PA (UPI #64-1-115) in

the Township’s R-2 Residential 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 Kathy Howley at 610-388-7323 to discuss how Pennsbury Township may best accommodate your needs. Edward M. Foley, Solicitor Brutscher, Foley, Milliner, Land & Kelly, LLP 213 East State Street Kennett Square, PA 19348 2p-14-2t

ESTATE NOTICE

ESTATE OF MARGARET MARY KLENERT a/k/a MARGARET M. KLENERT, DECEASED. Late of Upper Oxford 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 VALERIE BREISH, EXECUTRIX, 1229 Limestone Rd., Oxford, PA 19363, Or to her Attorney: ANITA M. D’AMICO, D’AMICO LAW, P.C., 65 S. Third St., Oxford, PA 19363 2p-14-3t

ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS

KENNETT CONSOLIDATED SCHOOL DISTRICT GREENW O O D E L E M E N TA R Y SCHOOL ON-SITE SEWER INSTALLATION ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS 001113 - 1

SECTION 001113 – ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS The Kennett Consolidated School District is soliciting sealed bids for the Greenwood Elementary School, community on-lot sewage disposal system (“Project”) in the form of a single prime lump sum contract. Sealed Bids shall be delivered to Mark Tracy, Chief Financial Officer, Kennett Consolidated School District Administrative Board Room, 300 E. South Street, Kennett Square, PA 19348 no later than 3:30 p.m. prevailing time on Thursday, February 29, 2024, at which time bids will be publicly opened and read. A MANDATORY pre-bid conference will be conducted on Thursday, February 22, 2024, at 4:00 p.m. at the Greenwood Elementary School, 2069 Greenwood Road, Kennett Square, PA 19348.

Representatives of the Project Engineer (D’Huy Engineering, Inc.) will provide project details at this meeting. Non attendees will not be permitted to bid. Electronic Contract Documents: To Bid the Project, prospective bidders must obtain the Contract Documents in electronic format (PDF) directly from D’Huy Engineering, Inc., (dei@dhuy. com) accompanied by a nonrefundable fee of Fifty Dollars ($50.00). Checks shall be made payable to “D’Huy Engineering, Inc.” Documents will be sent electronically after receipt of payment. Bidders must supply the following information with their request for documents: company name, contact person, complete address, phone and cellular numbers, and email address. Documents will be available on February 12, 2024.

Kennett Consolidated School District Mark Tracy, Chief Financial Officer 2p-14-3t

ESTATE NOTICE

ESTATE OF Glenda C. Kopf, late of East Nottingham Township, Chester County, Deceased. Letters Testamentary on the estate of the above named Glenda C. Kopf 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 Chester, PA 19382-4806 2p-21-3t payment without delay to: Robin Charlton, Executor, c/o, AttorClassifieds ney: Winifred Moran Sebastian, Esquire 208 E. Locust Street Address: P.O. Box 381 Oxford, Help Wanted PA 19363 Phone: 610-932-3838 Kennett Square area. A very 2p-14-3t nice slightly disabled male veteran needs assistance.

TRUST NOTICE Notice is hereby given of admin- Such as errands, light istration of Franklin P Schmidt housework, laundry, grocery and Mary Lou Schmidt Trust shopping etc..., 12-25 hours dtd 8/21/01. Mary Lou Schmidt a week. Schedule is flexible. late of Caln Twp Chester County $25.00/ hour. If interested, PA died 11/5/23. All persons having claims against decedent please text with name and are requested to make known contact information to 1-610same and all persons indebted 609-6319. to decedent are required to NOTICE make payment without delay Full Time Public Works to Thomas S. Schmidt Trustee Position London Grove c/o Patricia Coacher Esq 166 Township is accepting Allendale Road King of Prussia applications to fill a full time PA 19406 2p-14-3t skilled position in the Public Works Department. Position ESTATE NOTICE Estate of Phyllis M. Suleski, Late requires ability to perform of West Bradford Township, a variety of duties involving Chester County, deceased. manual labor, semi-skilled Letters Testamentary on the trade work, and equipment estate of the above named operation, as assigned by Phyllis M. Suleski, having been the Director of Public Works. granted to the undersigned, all persons having claims of Applicant must be able to lift 70 demands against the estate of pounds and work at heights, in the said decedent are requested confined spaces, and adverse to make known the same, and weather conditions. PA all persons indebted to the said Class “A” CDL with Airbrake decedent to make payment and Tanker endorsement without delay to: Cynthia Lyman, preferred. All applicants must Executrix, 112 Millwood Drive, be a minimum of 18 years Harrisburg, PA 17110 old and have clean criminal 2p-21-3t and driving records. Previous ESTATE NOTICE municipal, construction and/ ESTATE OF MARGARET C. or equipment operation MINUTELLO, DECEASED. Late of Londonderry Township, experience a plus. Starting Chester County, PA. LETTERS salary negotiable depending of ADMINISTRATION on the on experience, with benefits. above Estate have been granted London Grove Township is an to the undersigned, who request equal opportunity employer. all persons having claims or de- Submit applications to London mands against the estate of the Grove Township, Attn: Director decedent to make known the of Public Works, 372 Rose same and all persons indebted to the decedent to make pay- Hill Road, Suite 100, West ment without delay to RICHARD Grove, Pa 19390. A complete J. MINUTELLO, ADMINISTRA- job description along with TOR, c/o Janet M. Colliton, the application is available Esq., 790 E. Market St., Ste. at www.londongrove.org 250, West Chester, PA 19382- Applications will be accepted 4806, Or to his Attorney: JANET until positions are filled.

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WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2024

CHESTER COUNTY PRESS

5B

Chester County Press

Local News Avon Grove students showcase talent in Winter Strings Festival On Wednesday, Jan. 31, Avon Grove School District (AGSD) hosted its annual Strings Festival, a districtwide orchestra event with musical performances from students in grades five to twelve.

The concert, in its sixth year, provides a unique opportunity to bring together students from three schools in the district: Avon Grove Intermediate School (AGIS), Avon Grove Middle School (AGMS) and Avon Grove High School (AGHS).

“This is always one of my favorite concerts of the year,” said Krista Umile, orchestra director for the high school. “Not only does it give the students an opportunity to hear each other and support each other, but they also get the opportunity to see how far they will go as they

progress through the highquality string program we have in AGSD.” Having students from the three schools collaborate is a valued part of the string program at Avon Grove.

Throughout the year, the students come together to practice and prepare for the concert. Their efforts culminate in the String Festival, a celebration of their hard work and incredible talent.

“Young players get the chance to play in the same concert as students graduating high school, so they see where their music education will take them.

Older students have an opportunity to give back to the program and sow seeds for the next generation of orchestra,” said Brian Lynch, orchestra director at Avon Grove Middle School.

This year’s concert featured an impressive 160 students, the most to date for the annual event, and began with the AGIS fifth grade orchestra performing two selections under the direction of orchestra director Emily Lucas, “Russian Music Box” by Soon Hee Newbold and “Snow Day!”

by Katie O’Hara LaBrie.

The program continued with the middle school orchestra performing “Seven Nation Army” by Jack White.

Lynch described the enthusiasm he saw in his students. “The music was great, but the most important thing I saw was the joy and excitement,” he said.

Following the middle school performance, the high school students had the opportunity to display the skills they learned over their many years in the pro-

Courtesy photo

The Avon Grove orchestra students perform at the annual Strings Festival.

gram. Under the direction of Umile, the students performed John Lennon and Paul McCartney’s “Eleanor Ribgy.”

The night concluded with an energetic combined piece with all three

orchestras performing “High Hopes” by Panic! at the Disco. The enthusiasm from the audience, students and staff emphasized the importance and power of the performing arts in Avon Grove.

Umile expressed her gratitude for the support of the community and the district.

“The arts give us all a chance to be together and celebrate not just the music we play, but with each other,” she said.

Avon Grove Lions Club honors Erion and Picard as top students Anneli Erion, a student at Avon Grove Charter School, was recently honored as The Avon Grove Lions Club Student of the Month for January.

Anneli is a senior who had been a member of the Leo Club until this school year. During that time, she served in many leadership positions. Anneli has enjoyed being able to impact younger students at the Early Learning Center through reading groups and other activities. Anneli loved impacting her community through her time in Leo Club and encourag-

ing peers to join Leo Club so they can do the same.

Anneli continues to impact the AGCS community as a leader in the DECA club and Academic Competition Team. Avon Grove Charter School is proud of how Anneli contributes to the school community.

Gavin Picard has been named the Avon Grove Lions Club Student of the Month from Avon Grove High School. He is the son of Todd and Beth Picard of Lincoln University. Gavin’s list of activities includes football, volleyball, track and Our Minds Matter.

Courtesy photos

Anneli Erion is pictured with Avon Grove Charter High School principal Matthew Messick, her mother, and Avon Grove Lions Club President George Steele.

Gavin is involved in community activities which include being a member of the Nemours Advisory

Obituaries

Council, and four years of Distinguished Honors work at Wyncote as part throughout high school. of the maintenance team.

After graduation, Gavin Gavin has also achieved plans to pursue a degree in

Additional Obituaries on Page 2B

THADDEUS JAMES ATKIN, JR. Thaddeus James Atkin, Jr., 85, passed away at his home in Kirkwood, Pa. on Feb. 17, 2024.

Thad was born Feb. 24, 1938. He graduated from Parkesburg High School before proudly enlisting in the U.S. Marine Corps. He believed in the adage “Once a Marine, always a Marine.” After his discharge from the Marines, Thad was employed by Acme market for several years during which time he went to cosmetology and business school. He and the love of his life, Joan, opened and operated a successful full-service styling salon from 1968 to 2008, while building a loving family.

Thad very much enjoyed traveling with his wife and family, whether it was cruising overseas or traveling in an RV across the United States. Thad’s favorite time of year was October, when he would rent a condo in Myrtle Beach for his immediate and extended family to spend time together. Family was always the most important thing to him.

Through the years Thad enjoyed playing trumpet, his

Gavin Picard is pictured with his brother Graham, his mother Beth, Avon Grove Lions Club President George Steele and Avon Grove High School assistant principal Gary Benasutti.

bowling league, golfing, and watching the Philadelphia Eagles play. He loved cars and owned a number of what would be considered classics.

Thaddeus’ parents, Thaddeus Atkin, Sr. and Cecelia Atkin preceded him in death. He is survived by his loving wife of 59 years, Joan H. Atkin. He is also survived by his children, Thaddeus Atkin, III (TJ) and Audra Coble (Chris); his grandchildren, Eric Atkin (Melody), Lorren Bennett (Joseph), Alexandra Coble, Samantha Coble and Ryan Coble; two great-grandchildren, Julian and Jordan Atkin; sisters, Marjorie Battle (Charles) and Barbara Dougherty (Charles); and many caring and adoring nieces and nephews.

A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. on Thursday, Feb. 22 at the Edward L. Collins, Jr. Funeral Home, Inc. at 86 Pine St. in Oxford, where friends and family may visit from 10 to 11 a.m.

Interment with full military honors will be at the London Grove Friends Cemetery in Kennett Square.

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

landscape architecture. The teachers who have influenced Gavin the most are Mr. Ricketts and Mrs. Vaddi.

PAUL J. MYERS JR. Paul (Moon) J. Myers Jr., 87, of Bradenton, Fla. and formerly of Kennett Square, passed away after a short illness on Nov. 15, 2023. He was predeceased by his loving wife Edith, with whom he shared 53 years. of marriage.

Paul is survived by two daughters, Vicki Winward of Polk City, Fla. and Jennifer Osborne (wife of Daniel Osborne) of Kirkwood, Pa.; two grandchildren, Dan Adamson of Polk City, Fla. and Mike Thurmond (husband of Faith) of McKeesport, Pa.; and two nephews, Robert and David McComsey of Pennsylvania.

Paul was predeceased by his parents, Paul J. Myers Sr. and Mary Gambon Myers Leonard and two sisters, Margaret “Maggie” (wife of Joseph Whiteside) and Mary McComsey (wife of Robert McComsey).

The family requests everyone who knew him to say a prayer to him in heaven and to know that he has joined Edie for their next adventure. He will be sorely missed by everyone who knew and loved him.

Arrangements are being handled by the Baldwin Brothers Funeral & Cremation Society of Bradenton, Fla.(baldwincremation.com).

NANCY JEAN CAUDELL Nancy Jean Caudell, 85, of New Albany, Pa., went home to her Lord on Feb. 16, 2024.

Her husband, Hobert Caudell, to whom she was lovingly devoted, passed away on March 14, 1990.

Born on May 7, 1938 in West Grove, she was the daughter of the late Lawrence and Philena Moore.

Nancy is survived by her daughter, Tamara Caudell of New Albany, Pa. and a son, Michael (Deborah) Caudell of Mehoopany, Pa. She is also survived by her four grandchildren, Casey Davis, Ryan Davis, Kyle Caudell, and Rachel Caudell and her brother, Sam Moore (Beverly) of Bridgewater, VA. She was predeceased by her brother Lawrence Moore who passed away June 26, 2018.

Nancy was a devoted child of God who had a great

love for her church, Evergreen Christian Church in New Albany. She was church treasurer, a member of the Ladies Missionary Circle, a Sunday School teacher and she helped with the children’s Awana Program. Previously, she was a member of the Willowdale Chapel in Kennett Square and attended the London Grove Friends Meeting House in her youth. Nancy loved her family immensely and would do anything for them. Her grandchildren were her pride and joy. She loved the outdoors and working in her garden.

She had a green thumb and was always giving family and friends cuttings off her plants to grow in their own homes.

She was a tremendous cook and baker, and you never walked away hungry when you were seated at her table.

Nancy was an incredible seamstress. She made her own clothes, curtains and drapes among other things. She took pride in being a loving wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and friend.

Upon graduation from high school, Nancy worked parttime as a waitress while she attended Goldey-Beacom College. It was there that she met Hobert Caudell, the love of her life. She worked as an accounts payable clerk at NVF in Hockessin, Del. Later, after the family moved to New Albany, she was employed as a secretary at Millard’s Real Estate Agency. Also, she was a Judge of Elections for Albany Township for many years.

You are invited to visit with her family and friends from 10 to 11 a.m. on Saturday morning, Feb. 24 at the Foulk Funeral Home at 200 Rose Hill Road in West Grove. Her funeral service will follow at 11 a.m. Burial will be in Faggs Manor Cemetery, Route 926, Cochranville.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to the Alzheimer’s Association (act.alz.org).

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

6B

CHESTER COUNTY PRESS

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2024

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