Chester CountyPRESS
www.chestercounty.com
Covering Avon Grove, Chadds Ford, Kennett Square, Oxford, & Unionville Areas
Volume 156, No. 8
INSIDE
Wednesday, February 23, 2022
$1.00
Spencer announces his candidacy on Kennett High School steps Longtime Kennett Square public servant is seeking the Republican nomination for the 158th Legislative District seat in the State House By Chris Barber Contributing Writer
Leon Spencer formally threw his hat into the ring as the Republican candidate New winery opens in West for Pennsylvania’s 158th Grove...3A state Legislative District. Spencer, 71, a native of Kennett Square and former mayor of the borough, stood on the front steps of Kennett High School on Saturday morning and announced to a crowd of about 70 that he is seeking the seat. Spencer, a musician and community activist, has served on the Kennett School Board and borough council. He has also been honored as a Kennett High School “Legend.” William Penn the founding Pennsylvania...1B
and of
Timber Ridge Lane in Chadds Ford is a subdivision of five lots, three of which are fine homes tucked in a heavily-wooded area on the north side of Kennett Pike. At the Kennett Township Opinion.......................5A Board of Supervisors meeting on Feb. 16, one Obituaries.................2B resident alerted the board to Classifieds..................4B a persistent eyesore that has angered homeowners along the road and severely damaged the natural beauty of the development. Timber Ridge Lane homeowner George Plesko, speaking on behalf of all three homesteads, shared the photographic evidence of an abandoned construcMushroom Festival gives back to community...4A
INDEX
To Subscribe Call 610.869.5553
Continued on page 2A
Kennett High School on Saturday morning.
Resident shares construction damage to Chadds Ford development with township By Richard L. Gaw Staff Writer
tion project that has caused extensive environmental damage to the remaining two lots on the road -- that total nearly nine acres. Beginning in 2020, heavy machinery began appearing at the lots in preparation for building. Within days, several trees began coming down – many of them more than 100 years old – that quickly escalated into a near complete deforestation of lots 4 and 5 and included the removal of 69,000 square feet of woodland removed on lot 5 alone. “I checked my blueprints of the development, and it looked like they were taking a lot more trees down than would have been normally permitted,” Plesko told the supervisors. “The [lumber-
jacks on the properties] told me that they were going to take everything down, and wanted to know how far the boundaries were and how far they could go.” Plesko said that he immediately called then township Public Works Director Roger Lysle, who visited the site and determined that there was no paperwork giving permission to the builder to cut the trees down. Plesko told the board that if the builders would have been issued a permit, 15 percent of the woodland could have legally been taken down. Instead, he said, the project removed three-and-a-half times that amount before work was stopped. Continued on page 4A
Oxford Borough is open for fun By Betsy Brewer Brantner Contributing Writer Spring is just around the corner and so too is fun in Oxford Borough. Council approved multiple Special Events Applications at the Feb. 14 council meeting. Oxford Mainstreet, Inc. events that were approved include the First Friday Street Fairs and the 8th Annual Downtown Car Show, which will take place on Sept. 2. Council also approved the Oxford Presbyterian Church Apple Fest for Sept. 24. Oxford Chamber of Commerce’s Movies in the Park was approved for June 17, July 13 and Aug. 19. The long-awaited return to normal, or the new normal, appears to be on the
horizon. More information about those events will be available in the months to come. In other news, council listened to an update from Brendan Patti, a Homeowners Association president, about a continuing discussion regarding ownership of the streetlights at Sycamore Crossing. That discussion will continue with the borough solicitor, borough council and Sycamore Crossing’s Homeowners’ Association. Although Solicitor Stacey Fuller did state that her records indicated there was no agreement regarding the dedication of streetlights, council members agreed to continue the discussion. Council approved Continued on page 3A
New board, award recipients recognized at Chamber event By Richard L. Gaw Staff Writer
Tim Moore, a nuclear engineer with Constellation Energy Corp., became the Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Southern Chester County Chamber of Commerce for 2022, replacing Betsy Niedziejko of WSFS Bank.
Tim Moore, a nuclear engineer with Constellation Energy Corp., became the Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Southern Chester County Chamber of Commerce for 2022. His formal induction took place at the Chamber’s
annual meeting breakfast at Hartefeld Country Club on Feb. 17. Moore, who replaced Betsy Niedziejko of WSFS Bank, said, “that as chamber chairs come and go on an annual basis, we all stand on the shoulders of those who went before us, and Betsy’s got some strong shoulders that I will be standing on,
and I hope that I can continue the movement forward of this chamber based on the work that Betsy and others have done.” In addition to Moore’s new post, the Chamber also elected its officers for 2022: Doug Doerfler of Genesis was named Chairman Elect; Sean Walker of Kuzo Continued on page 2A
Kennett schools to drop masking requirement by month’s end By Chris Barber Contributing Writer
© 2007 The Chester County Press
Accompanied by his campaign manager, former state Rep. Eric Roe, Spencer took to the podium and addressed the crowd. Many of those in attendance held signs stating their support for Spencer. In his short speech on the chilly morning, Spencer advocated achieving a society in which individuals with varying talents and interests work together to make life better for all, even if they have differences. He compared people using diverse talents with athletic teams and bands ending up with beautiful music and victories by combining the variations in instruments Photo by Chris Barber Leon Spencer addresses the crowd at his announcement event at the steps of and field positions.
The Kennett Consolidated School District will drop its face mask mandate effective Feb. 28. Superintendent Dr. Dusty Blakey made the announcement at the monthly board meeting on Feb. 14 in the Mary D. Lang Kindergarten
Center. As of that date, the district no longer requires, but strongly recommends, wearing masks and will continue to monitor the levels of COVID-19 positivity. At that meeting as well, the board heard a preliminary 2022-2023 operating budget presentation and a request by the high school Gender Sexuality Alliance
to eliminate differences in graduation gown colors based on gender. Blakey prefaced the masking news by showing graphs of COVID-19 positivity in the school district as it reached a low point in November and then zoomed to new highs after the holiday break at the end of December.
He pointed to the obvious visual high counts on the graph of 282 positive cases in the school district after the students returned from Christmas vacation. Since then, the incidences have dropped substantially, and as of the February meeting there were only three staff and 11 students reported COVID-19 positive.
“We are looking at continuation of that (downward) trend,” he said. Blakey has the assent of his board to make decisions regarding the district’s response to the pandemic without calling a meeting for approval. Citing data from CHOP and the Chester County Health Continued on page 4A
2A
CHESTER COUNTY PRESS
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2022
Chester County Press
Local News Spencer... Continued from Page 1A
“People can’t agree on certain issues, but we must respect those issues and we must communicate,” he said. Roe addressed that same topic, saying that, as a state representative, Spencer would work to overcome incivility in government. Spencer lives in Kennett Square, a municipality that currently sits in Pennsylvania’s 160th Legislative District. That district is currently represented in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives by Republican Craig Williams, who will be running again this year to continue in that role. However, the state is in the process of redistricting the borders and shapes of those districts to overcome the gerrymandering, a hot political issue. A revised plan, which is now in the courts according to Chester County Voter Services, would place Kennett Square in the 158th District – the district which Spencer is seeking to represent. District 158 currently extends around but excludes Kennett Square, and is represented by Democrat Christina
Photos by Richard L. Gaw
The Southern Chester County Chamber of Commerce awarded Ambassador, Closer and Volunteer awards to five recipients at its annual breakfast meeting on Feb. 17.
Chamber event... Continued from Page 1A
Photo by Chris Barber
Leon Spencer announces his candidacy for state representative in the 158th District at a gathering in Kennett Square on Saturday morning.
Sappey. Her office is just up Route 82 in Willowdale. The result of that shift would pit Spencer – pending his likely nomination – against incumbent Sappey in November’s general election. Spencer has said if the court decision goes the other way – that is, if Kennett Square remains in the 160th, he would drop his candidacy. Roe, who has been a
longtime advocate for fair districting, said the state Supreme Court will likely find in favor of that change and will issue the announcement on March 9. Spencer concluded his speech by requesting help from that crowd and belting out segments of the song, “Lean on Me.” That elicited chants of “We love Leon” from the crowd.
Help us, help you.
We’ve had more patients with COVID-19 in our hospitals than ever before. You can prevent this from happening again. Get vaccinated to avoid serious illness and to help others. Already vaccinated? Get boosted for even more protection. And please, wear a mask. We can only overcome this by working together.
From the Leading Health Care Systems in the Tri-State Area
CALL TO ADVERTISE 610-869-5553
Funeral Homes, Inc. will be the Vice Chairman; Paula Paisley of Paisley Solutions will serve as Treasurer; and Melissa Dietrich of Longwood Gardens will serve as Secretary. The Chamber also gave its 2022 Ambassador of the Year award to local entrepreneur and business owner Vanessa Ross; its 2022 Closer of the Year Award to Niedziejko, Walker and Eric Kuhn of Pillar Real Estate Advisors, LLC; and its 2022 Volunteer of the Year Award to David Graham, a residential mortgage broker. In his remarks, Moore spoke about the recent separation of Constellation Energy Corp., Exelon’s former power generation and competitive energy business, from Exelon Corp. Now a stand-alone, Constellation Energy – a publicly traded Fortune 200 company – has become the nation’s largest carbon-free energy producer and leading supplier of clean energy solutions to residential, public sector and business customers. “With regional presence right here, I am proud to say that southern Chester
County gets to be a direct part of the clean energy movement, intended to fight global warming and enhance social justice throughout the United States,” Moore said. In addressing the Chamber’s continued impact on the local business community, Moore said that the economy has emerged from a two-year pandemic and continues to thrive. “Over the years, the region has grown with businesses of every size, and it continues to be one of the most desirable places to live and work,” he said. “As the region has grown, so has the Chamber as well. Our Chamber members comprise nearly all of the business sectors, and our active members are influential business leaders, professionals with non-profit institutions, legislative leaders and more.” Moore said that the key objectives of the Chamber in 2022 will be to maintain and grow its member-centered focus and to grow and retain existing membership. “We need to evolve with the continuing evolution of our business community,” he said. “As technology changes, new business challenges emerge and new
types of businesses take root in our service territory, the Chamber will work tirelessly to seek your input, anticipate your needs and adapt our services accordingly.” Moore credited Chamber President & CEO Cheryl Kuhn and her team for their work during COVID-19, which has included adapting its services, directing support to members, and acting as an interface with public officials in providing critical communication to Chamber members. “If I had to sum it up, 2022 will not be just a year of focus, but it will also be a year of growth and sustainability,” Moore added. “The board, our committees and I look forward to helping you prosper in the year ahead.” The Chamber will host its 55th annual Chairman’s Gala on March 19 at Longwood Gardens, where they will extend posthumous Outstanding Citizen of the Year awards to Gail Suzanne Chase, David Gregory Hughes, Dennis C. Melton and Michael R. Moyer. To contact Staff Writer Richard L. Gaw, email rgaw@chestercounty.com.
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2022
CHESTER COUNTY PRESS
3A
Chester County Press
Local News Winemaker Kyle Jones recently purchased Kreutz Creek Vineyards and anticipates an April opening
Generation Next: The Acadian Wine Company arrives in West Grove By Richard L. Gaw Staff Writer When winemaker Kyle Jones first arrived at Kreutz Creek Vineyards in West Grove last November, he was there to purchase equipment from Jim and Carole Kirkpatrick, who were retiring after owning and operating the vineyard for the past 25 years. There, high on the hill, Jones saw the enveloping sweep of the vineyards’ nearly eight acres, tumbling gently eastward. Everything that Jones had ever wanted and needed as a winemaker was already there, firmly entrenched and permanent. Vines as thick and sturdy as heavy rope were meticulously lined up in neat rows. A small but efficient production facility stood in the center of the vineyard. The spacious and airy home the Kirkpatricks lived in offered beautiful views of the vineyard below, and could be easily converted into a wine tasting area for guests. It was all there in front of Jones like a dream fulfilled, and last December, he became the new owner of the vineyard and proceeded to give it a new name: The
Acadian Wine Company. “I have been making wine for several years, and while I don’t come from a family that has land, we have owned businesses, so the potential of owning a winery as a business was always there for me,” said Jones, who had been the head winemaker at Nissley Vineyards & Winery in Lancaster County until 2021. “Winemaking is a creative outlet for me, but starting from scratch in the wine industry seems like a daunting undertaking, but the potential of our growing regions and taking over a turn-key operation has made this more achievable.” Acadian origins In his welcome letter to patrons of Kreutz Creek Vineyards, Jones detailed what he was inheriting – four acres of 20-year growth of Vitis vinifera (common grape vine) and three acres of complex Vitis vinifera hybrid grape vines, among them some complex Bordeaux varieties. The coincidence was uncanny, he wrote, given his family’s origins in Europe. “The Winemaker in this instance (Jones) is a descen-
dent of the Acadians who brought some of these same types of grapevines with them across the Atlantic to North America in the early 1600s from the territory of France,” Jones wrote. “Learning to adapt and partner with the land and its inhabitants is the primary tradition of the Acadian people. “Likewise, the grapevines contained in these vineyards have flourished from twenty-five years of growth and adaptation in this site.” Accompanied by his dog Lilly and friends and family, Jones, who recently took over wine-making responsibilities at Paradocx Vineyard in Landenberg, is currently preparing his vineyards for the growing of Cabernet Franc, Chambourcin, Chardonnay, Merlot, Petit Verdot and Vidal, as well as converting several rooms in the middle level and exterior deck of the former Kirkpatrick home to what will become a tasting area. “I want this to be a space where people can partake in a celebration of wine,” he said. “We want our guests to be welcomed here to our ‘home,’ where they can enjoy the fruits of our labor
Photos by Richard L. Gaw
Pennsylvania winemaker Kyle Jones recently purchased the nearly eight-acre Kreutz Creek Vineyards in West Grove, where he will own and operate The Acadian Wine Company.
on this magnificent piece of property. Jones enters another growing season knowing all too well that the life of a winemaker is both a labor of love and an investment in both science and creativity – and all of it dependent upon the intangibles of the climate the grapes grow in. As a Pennsylvania winemaker, Jones is at a double advantage; the commonwealth ranks as the nation’s fourthlargest producer of wine, accounting for 1.5 percent of the total volume, behind California, Washington and New York. In addition, the rocky soil and micro-climate in the county makes the area particularly well suited to growing many varieties of grapes. Consequently, Chester County has continued to emerge as a major player on the regional wine scene, highlighted by over one dozen wineries and tasting rooms that are drawing visitors from the entire Mid-Atlantic and beyond.
of Pennsylvania is capable of standing on the world stage,” Jones said. “There is no excuse to produce bad wine. If I believe that wine is a communal experience and not just separate pillars on their own hills -- there has to be a cohesiveness of winemakers. We’re not competitors, but collaborators.” While there is no reference book that demonstrates how a winemaker can blend together the business, creative and entertainment aspects of owning a winery, Jones said that it often comes down to the small details “I have painted the bar top white because when I walk into a wine tasting room and pick up a glass of wine on a wooden bar, I can’t see the wine,” he said. “That level of attention – and intention – is what is underpinning everything.” When The Acadian Wine Company kicks off its first year this April, its first harvest will still be several months away, so Jones ‘Capable of standing on is developing a menu of the world stage’ wines from other regions to The Acadian Wine Company will offer guests a wine tasting room that will be locatserve guests during 2022 – ed at the home on the property and provide stunning views of the vineyard and the “The winemaking region including wines he himself surrounding countryside. in the southeastern corner has made in Pennsylvania.
Oxford Borough... Continued from Page 1A
payment No. 2 to Eagle Contracting & Landscaping, Inc. in the amount of $119,781 for work completed on the 2021 Water Main Replacement. They also approved a payment in the amount of 2,760 for Change Order No.1 to Eagle Contracting for the 2021 Water Main Replacement Project to relocate an existing water line. After a hearing to adopt an Ordinance Repealing the Previous Ordinance regarding the Non-Uniform Pension Plan, and Adopting a Pension Plan Document, council approved a motion to adopt the ordinance. Council approved a HARB (Historic Architectural Review Board) recommendation for 43 N. 4th Street for an emergency roof. Council approved an employment contract for Pauline Garcia-Allen for the position of borough manager. Council approved an employment contract for Arlene Harrison for the position of treasurer.
Council also approved a motion to approve a Supplemental Settlement and General Release Agreement with Officer Simril, who recently retired after 27 years of service in part-time and full-time to the Oxford Police Department. Police Chief Sam Iacono said he wishes Simril the best and that he would be missed by the department. “He was a great officer that always displayed great calmness no matter what situation he faced,” Iacono said. Council member Mary Higgins was appointed to the Oxford Regional Planning Commission. The Regional Planning Commission continues their work on the update of the Oxford Regional Comprehensive Plan. Borough Council will continue to bring updates to their meetings regarding progress of that plan. It was decided at the council meeting that the Finance Oversight Committee will include Council members Amanda Birdwell and Peggy Ann Russell, and the committee will be incorporated into
the regular council meetings. Local resident Spence Andress will also be on that committee. Treasurer Arlene Harrison will also attend the council meeting with the Finance Oversight Committee. Council meeting agendas are available on the borough website at Oxfordboro.org. Fuller also explained how meetings should be conducted to remain within the confines of the Sunshine Laws and to meet the council’s stated goal of prioritizing transparency. Ware Presbyterian amended a recent zoning application involving new construction which will no longer require an exception.
Garcia-Allen explained that the borough will be pursuing a grant for Mt. Vernon Street which could include a waterline, stormwater improvements and road improvements. She also confirmed that construction has begun on Streetscape Phase 4 beginning on Octoraro Alley and eventually continuing on to N. 2nd Street. There was also a discussion on potential new wells within the borough to decrease the dependence upon Chester Water Authority. That would entail a hydrological study. The next borough council meeting is scheduled for March 7 at 7 p.m.
%GNGDTCVKPI [GCTU
2TQRCPG )CU 5GTXKEG #0;9*'4' *GCVKPI *QV 9CVGT )CU .QIU )GPGTCVQTU CPF OQTG
(TGG 'UVKOCVGU ^ #NN (WGNU
“I will be welcoming guests into my ‘home’ and offering them wines that I have made and stand behind, without question,” he said. “I will be able to put my wine on the table beside varietals from California, Italy and France and unabashedly say, ‘this is Pennsylvania wine, and it belongs here.’ “I may be the next generation of winemakers in this region, but I stand on the shoulders of giants. All of the work that they have done makes what I do possible. While I have experience as a winemaker in Pennsylvania, I hope to be ingratiated within this community. The rising tide helps to elevate us all, as long as we all pull our anchors up.” The Acadian Wine Company is located at 553 S. Guernsey Road in West Grove. To keep up to date about The Acadian Wine Company, visit www.acadianwinecompany.com, or e-mail info@acadianwinecompany.com. To contact Staff Writer Richard L. Gaw, e-mail rgaw@chestercounty.com.
4A
CHESTER COUNTY PRESS
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2022
Chester County Press
Local News Timber Ridge Lane... Continued from Page 1A
After several loads of tree limbs began being carted off of lots 4 and 5, Plesko began taking photographs of the damage and determined that the value of the timber was well over $100,000. ‘Consider using the powers of their office’ Plesko also shared beforeand-after photographs that demonstrated the effects of soil disturbance on the two lots, including rainwater that began to form deep gorges along the road that damaged a nearby stream that once held fish and attracted heron. While the builder had made an attempt to stabilize the soil on lot 5, it failed, he said. Despite the paper trail of correspondence between Timber Ridge Lane residents and the township that alerted the township to the issue, “nothing was done,” he said. Submitting a complete
report to the supervisors, Plesko asked the township to consider using the powers of their office to rectify damage that has occurred in the development, in accordance with existing township rules and ordinances. “Those ordinances and regulations have a purpose that in this particular case, [serve as] an outstanding example of why we have ordinances like we do about woodland preservation,” he said. Plesko asked the supervisors to enforce the zoning codes to get the fallen trees and stumps removed from the lots and replant vegetation in wetland areas. “This is unsightly and we’ve been looking at it for over 18 months,” he said. “This is about preservation – not only the beauty of the area but it is part of Kennett Township, and it’s going to be there after I am long gone. The ordinances speak to the preservation of that, and that is why I am here and that is why I am asking for help to remedy some of this on-going problem we have.”
Following the presentation, supervisor Scudder Stevens asked Plesko if he has contacted any state or federal agencies, such as the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Plesko said that he has not yet contacted the agency. “What steps have you taken to hold Barone Homes (the builder) responsible for the damage to you, your neighbors and your property?” Stevens asked. “I have not,” Plesko said. “To take steps against them, I think I would have to file a complaint, and that would interfere with the life of business. I wanted to get this ironed out without going down that road.” Stevens said that while the damage done to Timber Ridge Lane is “an atrocity,” he encouraged Plesko and his fellow residents to take action on their own. “You have to go after the person who has caused that damage,” he said. “That means you have to put it on the line, go take the risk and start the lawsuit. Look to yourself as to what you can do.”
Courtesy photo
A resident of a Chadds Ford subdivision gave a presentation at the Kennett Township Board of Supervisors meeting on Feb. 16 detailing the extent of damage left behind by the clearing of two lots on the road for development.
Township Solicitor David Sander provided some background to the two lots on Timber Ridge Lane, saying that there was a zoning enforcement notice issued for lot 4, which was appealed to the township’s Zoning Hearing Board and later settled between the township and the property owner of lot 4, in exchange for a $7,500 fine
and an agreement to stabilize the property. “I do not believe that any zoning enforcement notices were issued to the owner of lot 5,” Sander said. Township Manager Eden Ratliff said that while the board would not respond to Plesko’s request at the meeting, he and Planning and Zoning Director Diane Hicks
Mushroom Festival gives back to community ‘roots’ If you’ve ever been to the Kennett Square Mushroom Festival, you know it’s like a large block party, where the community comes together for the weekend to celebrate the area’s most popular commodity—mushrooms. While there’s plenty to enjoy during the event, a big part of the Festival’s
mission is to give back to the community—and in fact, the theme of the 2021 Festival was ‘Rooted in the Community,’ a nod not just to the mushroom farms, but the community that helps support the industry. “Today, I’m happy to invite local non-profits to apply for a Mushroom Festival Grant
Award,” said Gina Puoci, the 2021 Mushroom Festival president. Each year, the Mushroom Festival provides proceeds from the event to local charities and non-profit organizations. Over the past 20 years, the Mushroom Festival has donated more than $1 million in funds to local
organizations for things like books, playground equipment, food, transportation, healthcare services, and more. Gale Ferranto, of Buona Foods and the Mushroom Festival coordinator, explained the grant program this way. “Kennett Square is the Mushroom Capital of the World, in large part due
to the support of the community. This is a way for the mushroom farming community to say thank you.” Non-profit organizations can find the application and information about supporting documents at grant applications - Mushroom Festival. The deadline for submission is Feb. 28.
will review Plesko’s materials and prepare a written response to the board and Plesko that will include what action the township can and cannot take. Ratliff projected that the response would be completed within one month. To contact Staff Writer Richard L. Gaw, email rgaw@chestercounty.com.
Kennett Square masks... Continued from Page 1A
Health Department, he said the current COVID19 positivity rate of less than 5 percent prompted him to abandon the mask mandate. Assistant Superintendent Dr. Michael Barber presented numbers that, if reached, could cause the reestablishment of the mask mandate in the schools. Those figures represent 5 percent population of the respective schools. They are Mary D. Lang 13; Bancroft 20; Greenwood 27; New Garden 25; Middle School 46; and High School 88. Barber added, “We’re moving forward with concerts and field trips. …We are excited to provide our kids with the opportunities with these events.” Budget discussion Chief Financial Officer Mark Tracy presented a preliminary 2022-23 operating budget of $94 million that includes a proposed 2.03 percent real estate tax increase. The average taxpayer whose assessed property value is $182,000 would pay $5,914, an increase of $117 at a millage of .0325. A mill is a tax of $1 for every $1,000 of assessed real estate value. Final approval of the budget is scheduled for the June meeting. “We’ll see if we can get it down by June,” Tracy added. Graduation gowns Three members of the Kennett High School Gender Sexuality AllianceDio Gigante Dima, Jenna Oakes and Ash Wardwellpresented a request for a change in the colors of graduation gowns. Historically, girl graduates wore white gowns, and boy graduates wore blue gowns. The members of the alliance proposed that the school replace the differentiation with either all-blue or a combination blue-white on all gowns for everyone. They cited results of surveys they administered which indicated most members of the senior class agree with the recommendation to make a change. The board will address the issue at the next meeting.
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2022
CHESTER COUNTY PRESS
5A
Chester County Press
Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the government for a redress of grievances.
Opinion
Editorial
Guest Column
Give senior citizens a break
Balancing the small business landscape
We’ve all suffered during the pandemic. We could all use a break. But a good argument could be made that senior citizens, as a group, have suffered the most during the last two years. Now, in addition to the ongoing pandemic and all its impacts, prices are increasing significantly on many things that are essential, and once again senior citizens are likely being impacted the most. School districts across the state are now entering the budget season. The preliminary work on these budgets has been taking place for months, but now is the time when decisions start to get made about the 2022-2023 spending plans. School districts in Pennsylvania must stay within the Act 1 Index limit on tax increases or get approval via a referendum. For the next fiscal year, the base index is 3.4 percent, and some school districts will have a higher adjusted index based on a number of factors. If you asked taxpayers, no year is a good year for a large tax increase. But this year, with the cost of so many things already increasing, it’s a particularly bad year for a large tax increase. The federal government only provides a small percentage of a school district’s annual funding. But, as a result of the Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief Fund, the federal government is providing additional funding to help schools address some of the issues created by the pandemic. Federal stimulus funding has also allowed the state to boost its funding to public schools. Pennsylvania Gov. Tom Wolf recently unveiled his proposed budget for 2022-2023 fiscal year, and he called for a “generational investment” of $1.75 billion for the state’s schools. This includes $1.25 billion in basic education funding for the state’s K-12 public schools. While it certainly seems like a long shot that Gov. Wolf will receive the needed support from Republican lawmakers to get his proposed budget approved as is, there are reasons for lawmakers to provide as much funding to schools as possible this year. It starts with the students, of course. It will take years for schools to make up for the education that was lost as a result of the pandemic’s disruptions, to say nothing of the emotional toll that the last two years have taken on children. But if the state makes the “generational investment” in helping schools overcome the impact of the pandemic, it would potentially allow school districts to pass their own budgets without raising taxes significantly. Senior citizens need a break and school boards should do what they can to limit tax increases. This year.
&KHVWHU &RXQW\ 3UHVV 3XEOLVKHU 5DQGDOO 6 /LHEHUPDQ
6WHYH +RIIPDQ 0DQDJLQJ (GLWRU 5LFKDUG / *DZ $VVRFLDWH (GLWRU %UHQGD %XWW 2IILFH 0DQDJHU 7ULFLD +RDGOH\ $UW 'LUHFWRU 6KHUU\ +XWFKLQVRQ *UDSKLF 'HVLJQ $ODQ ( 7XUQ $GYHUWLVLQJ 'LUHFWRU 7HUL 7XUQV $GYHUWLVLQJ ([HFXWLYH +HOHQ ( :DUUHQ $GYHUWLVLQJ ([HFXWLYH $P\ /LHEHUPDQ 0DUNHWLQJ 3XEOLF 5HODWLRQV
12 5()81'6 $)7(5 5(&(,37 2) 68%6&5,37,21 3$<0(17 2daaT]c P]S _aTeX^db fTTZ b XbbdTb PaT TPRW >[STa XbbdTb PaT $ TPRW ?TaX^SXRP[b _^bcPVT _PXS Pc >gU^aS ?0 ("%" ?>BC<0BC4A) BT]S PSSaTbb RWP]VTb c^ 2WTbcTa 2^d]ch ?aTbb ? > 1^g $ :T[c^] ?0 ("#%
By John Fleming, SBA Mid-Atlantic Regional Administrator Small businesses, from mom and pops to manufacturers and exporters, account for two-thirds of net new jobs in the U.S., generating more than 40 percent of our nation’s economic output. So, when the number of small business owners declined by 20.2 percent between April 2019 and April 2020, the impact was significant. The highest declines were experienced by Black-owned enterprises - 37.6 percent. With the pandemic ramping up, the hardest hit were still Black small business owners. They’ve begun to recover due to their resilience, but also thanks to COVID-related financial assistance programs such as the Paycheck Protection Program, the Restaurant Revitalization Fund, Shuttered Venues Operators Grants, and Economic Injury Disaster loans. Still, the opportunity gap is real: According to a Federal Reserve report, more than half of whiteowned employers applying for non-emergency financ-
ing received most or all the capital they needed, while only 20 percent of Blackowned firms could say the same. Nearly two-thirds of Black-owned employerfirms applying for financing received nothing or had financing needs but did not apply. This is not unique to pandemic relief: FDIC data on commercial small business lending by regulated banks shows a three percent decline (600,000 loans) in the proportion of loans under $100,000. This lack of small-dollar-loan appetite from lenders led to disproportionate impacts on minority businesses. Firms with non-Hispanic Black ownership and firms with $100,000 or less in revenues were only half as likely as firms with non-Hispanic white ownership to obtain bank funds. The Biden-Harris Administration and the U.S. Small Business Administration are striving to balance the scales. We continue to offer an array of resources to help minority and underserved businesses reset and retool while doing more through policy and process to remove
historic impediments. Under SBA Administrator Isabella Casillas-Guzman, the agency will continue to support small business owners and startups through our traditional lending portfolio (7a, 504, microloans), which had a historic year in FY21, and through accessing new opportunities, such as climate focused manufacturing, presented in President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. The Infrastructure Plan will be big for small businesses. The federal government is the largest buyer of goods and services in the world. In FY 2020, 1.9 percent of federal contracts went to Black-owned firms while 2.1 percent went to Latinxowned firms and 3.2 percent went to AAPI-owned firms, even though they represent 9.9 percent, 12.8 percent and 8.1 percent of all small businesses, respectively. For the first time, President Biden is directing that 11 percent of contracting dollars are awarded to small, disadvantaged businesses, up from the current statutory goal of five percent. This is a first step towards meeting the President’s goal of ensuring 15 percent of
federal contracts go to SDBs by 2025. Buying from small, disadvantaged businesses leverages the government’s purchasing power to reestablish domestic supply chains and “Made in America” products – using market growth opportunities to strengthen our nation’s industrial base. To ensure we’re hitting the mark, the SBA is dis-aggregating federal contracting data to track equity across racial and ethnic categories, and advancing reforms that will increase transparency, encourage accountability and, most importantly, drive inclusion in the U.S. government’s small business contracting system. Achieving President Biden’s contracting goals will be a giant leap forward and make a big difference for many small businesses and communities across the country, putting an extra $50 billion into the hands of America’s small, disadvantaged businesses over the next five years. This will spur innovation, helping America’s entrepreneurs to develop and bring to market the products and services of the future.
Budget proposal will move Pennsylvania forward By Rep. Melissa Shusterman Gov. Tom Wolf’s final budget proposal comes as our commonwealth continues to deal with a global pandemic that has profoundly affected us all, impacting our health, the health of our loved ones, job prospects, the care and education of our children and our access to goods and services in the economy. This proposal would move Pennsylvania forward and put people and opportunities ahead of the status quo. In the past seven years, we have made great progress in education, investing nearly $2 billion, but we cannot stand still now. We must continue to prioritize our children and fulfill our promise that a child’s zip code will not determine their success. Governor Wolf’s proposal provides an additional $1.55 billion for basic education funding. This funding will be distributed throughout the commonwealth, making sure our most underfunded districts receive necessary funds to better their schools and provide opportunities for students. It also proposes a 16 percent increase in special education funding, which would ensure that school districts have the resources they need to
provide high-quality education services to students with disabilities and special needs. Additionally, the proposal invests $70 million in early childhood education, allowing more young children to attend early education through Pre-K Counts and increasing investments for the Head Start Supplemental Assistance Program. We have the funds to invest in our children’s future and provide equity in education without raising taxes or asking school districts to bear any extra burden. All children deserve the same access to a good education, and this budget levels the playing field for public education in Pennsylvania. However, investing in our children starts before preschool. Parents and caregivers need access to quality, affordable child care. The average cost of child care in Pennsylvania is $11,842 per year, or $987 a month. Governor Wolf’s budget prioritizes child care on several fronts, investing $77.8 million in federal funds to maintain base rates for Child Care Work, a subsidized childcare program to help low-income families; $44.3 million to maintain co-payment reductions for Child Care Works families; $6.1 million to maintain
incentive payments for providers of childcare during nontraditional hours. Providing safe, quality and affordable childcare can lessen the load tremendously for working parents, ensuring a strong workforce and a bright future for our children. That’s why I have introduced House Bill 2053, which would create a Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit in Pennsylvania. There is a federal child and dependent tax credit, but Pennsylvania is one of 19 states that does not offer tax credits for child or dependent care. To be eligible, taxpayers must already qualify for the federal tax credit. Taxpayers with one qualifying individual would receive $350 in tax credits, while taxpayers with two or more qualifying individuals would receive $700 in tax credits. Small businesses are the backbone of our commonwealth and investing in our business owners will continue to grow Pennsylvania’s economy and keep our communities strong. Governor Wolf’s proposal would use $225 million American Rescue Plan Act Dollars to help 11,000 small businesses through the COVID Relief Statewide Small Business Assistance Program. The grants will help small businesses to stabilize and reopen. Promoting innovation and the job growth value of bringing businesses to Pennsylvania is essential to making the commonwealth more competitive. Right now, Pennsylvania has one of the highest Corporate Net Income Tax rates in the country, which is keeping companies out of our
commonwealth. This budget proposal would cut taxes on employers creating good-paying jobs in the commonwealth by reducing the Corporate Net Income Tax from 9.99 percent to 7.99 percent. I’ve introduced legislation in the state House that would incentivize emerging tech and biomedical companies to choose Pennsylvania by accelerating the Net Operating Loss Carry-Forward, allowing companies that invest in new technology to write off more of that investment on their taxes. This budget proposal also prioritizes Pennsylvania’s vulnerable populations, including those with Intellectual Disabilities and Autism by investing $18.8 million to serve an additional 832 individuals awaiting services. Those who need assistance should not have to wait for it. I look forward to working with my colleagues to pass a once-in-a-generation budget that prioritizes the needs of the people of the commonwealth, investing in our children, businesses and the most vulnerable citizens, all while not increasing taxes. This proposal is an investment in the future of Pennsylvania, and I am hopeful we can make it a reality. Pennsylvania Rep. Melissa Shusterman is a Democrat who represents part of Chester and Montgomery Counties. She was elected to represent the 157th Legislative District in 2018. She serves on several committees including, Children & Youth, Commerce, Judiciary, and Policy.
6A
CHESTER COUNTY PRESS
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2022
HIRING ALL POSITIONS WITH INCENTIVES HEALTH CARE IS 50% PAID FOR BY EMPLOYER
School Bus Drivers Van Drivers | Aides
FAMILY-OWNED
610-869-2881 DUVALLBUSSERVICE.COM
Chester County Press
In the Spotlight
Section
B
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2022
LI V IN G H IS TORY
by Gene Pisasale
William Penn and the founding of Pennsylvania Part 1 of 2
On March 4, 1681, something occurred that brought a British colony into existence and helped shape the future course of a nation. On that day, King Charles II of England granted William Penn the rights to approximately 45,000 square miles of mostly uncharted land in what would become one of England’s most prosperous colonies. Charles wasn’t being kind; he was repaying a debt the Crown owed to Penn’s father, Admiral William Penn, who died in 1670. Young William was not exactly his father’s ideal son; he had rejected the teachings of the revered Church of England and become a Quaker, which stunned his family. William Penn’s conversion to Quakerism formed the foundation for his efforts to start fresh in a place where people could worship freely, a “holy experiment” that broke new ground in the move toward liberty for millions in the decades ahead. Born on October 14, 1644 in London, William Penn was from a well-known family. His father was recognized for his service in the Royal Navy and owned land in England and Ireland. After a trip to Ireland, the Admiral invited traveling Quaker preacher Thomas Loe to stop in and speak to the family. It was a moment that changed young William’s life. The Quaker religion was founded by George Fox, who had raised eyebrows by opposing many of the tenets and practices of the Church of England and Christian churches in general. After entering Oxford University to study in 1660, Penn rejected the statesponsored Anglican Church and was later expelled for religious nonconformity–a
serious issue back in the day. In 1666, the Admiral sent William back to Ireland to manage the family estates, a move that would have unintended consequences. William again crossed paths with Loe and the next year converted to Quakerism, a choice that would land him in deep trouble in the years ahead. Penn was taken into custody four times for criticizing the Anglican Church. That didn’t stop him: he wrote a total of 42 books and pamphlets explaining his beliefs in the seven years following his conversion. He was imprisoned in the Tower of London, where he wrote his most famous work “No Cross, No Crown,” which condemned the luxuries of England while extolling ascetic self-denial and social reform. As Penn continued to raise the ire of those in power, his father’s death allowed him to make a fresh start somewhere else. It is possible that Charles II considered Penn’s land grant a way of getting rid of him. It worked. As proprietor of the new tract, Penn sailed on the ship Welcome for the New World in August 1682 with his Frame of Government, which would allow people “…no power of doing mischief, that the will of one man may not hinder the good of a whole country.” Freedom of worship would be absolute, with no ‘approved church.’ Penn made a leap forward in political thinking. He included an amending clause in his outline of government–the first of any written constitution–so it could be altered as needed for future generations. Some historians consider this to be a precursor to Article V of the U.S.
Constitution- written more than a century later- which allowed for amendments. Penn was ready to build a new society as he landed in present day New Castle, Delaware on October 27, 1682; he later travelled north to Pennsylvania soil. Penn’s landing site was in today’s city of Chester. There stands an historical marker: “This stone marks the spot where WILLIAM PENN landed October 28/29, 1682.” The spot where he stepped ashore is estimated to be near the mouth of Chester Creek, a block south from the marker. Penn wanted to name his colony “Sylvania” after the Latin for “woods” but the King persuaded him to add “Penn” in honor of his father. Pennsylvania’s first counties were Bucks, Chester and Philadelphia, all established in 1682, the first two named after areas in England. Chester County back then was huge compared to what it is today, encompassing parts of Lancaster, Berks and Delaware Counties, each created later by taking portions of Chester County as their territory. In the Chester County Archives a map titled “Chester County, Pennsylvania As Constituted 1690” shows the extent of the county at that time. The map includes areas that we now know as Radnor, Haverford, Darby, Tinicum, Ridley, Springfield, Newtown, Chester and other sites along the northern border of Delaware and the western boundary of Philadelphia County. Despite 340 years and dozens of books written about him, many people today do not know much about the man who was responsible for it all. William Penn’s vision was to create a society where people could be free to pursue their faith, their businesses and live their lives amicably with their neighbors. He even helped design a city whose name hinted at that: Philadelphia, “City of Brotherly Love.”
Citizens today in Chester County and around the state should be thankful Penn followed his vision. Despite persecution and imprisonment, he gave us each a chance to pursue our own dreams in an atmosphere of peace and harmony. Gene Pisasale is an historian, author and lecturer based in Kennett Square. He has written ten books which focus mostly on the Chester County and Philadelphia area. His latest book is “Forgotten Founding Fathers: Pennsylvania and Delaware in the American Revolution.” His books are available on www.Amazon.
“William Penn” by Frederick S. Lamb.
com and through his website at www.GenePisasale. com. Gene can be reached via e-mail at: Gene@ GenePisasale.com.
“George Fox,” founder of the Quaker religion by S. Allen.
“Charles II in Garter robes” by John Michael Wright.
Chester County historical marker by The Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission.
“The Birth of Pennsylvania” by Jean Leon Gerome Ferris.
Pennsylvania Charter to William Penn on March 4, 1681.
First draft of the Frame of Government of Pennsylvania written by William Penn in England 1681.
Chester County Pennsylvania as constituted in 1690 courtesy of the Chester County Archives.
2B
CHESTER COUNTY PRESS
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2022
Chester County Press
Obituaries LEWIS MORTON WATSON
LAURA MAY BRAMBLE Laura May Bramble, age 101, of Lincoln University, Pa., passed away on Feb. 11 at her residence. She was the wife of Robert B. Bramble, who passed away in 1999, and with whom she shared 55 years of marriage. Born in Springfield, Pa., she was the daughter of the late William Fred Bachofer and the late Ida Snyder Bachofer. Laura was the owner and operator of the Kennett Laboratory in Kennett Square for many years. She was a member of the Soroptimist Club in Kennett Square, the American Association of Bioanalysts, and was in the Worlds Who’s Who of Women in November 1979. She enjoyed traveling to Bermuda, playing golf, playing cards, especially Pinochle, helping rescue cats and
being with her family and friends. She is survived by two sons, Robert Wayne Bramble and his wife Harriet of Walhalla, N.D. and Larry B. Bramble and his wife Robin of Lincoln University, Pa.; four grandchildren, six great-grandchildren and one great great grandson. She was predeceased by one brother, Henry Bachofer. You are invited to visit with her family and friends from 10 to 11 a.m. on Wednesday morning, Feb. 23 at the Foulk Funeral Home of West Grove, 200 Rose Hill Road in West Grove. Her memorial service will follow at 11 a.m. Burial will be private. In lieu of flowers, a contribution may be made to Alley Cat Allies, P.O. Box 98179, Washington, D.C. 200778179, or to the West Grove Fire Company Ambulance, P.O. Box 242, West Grove, Pa. 19390-0242. To view her online tribute and to share a memory with her family, please visit www.kuzoandfoulkfh.com.
Our Family Serving Your Family
Lewis Morton Watson, 78, of Nottingham, passed away on Feb. 14 while at home. Born in Rising Sun, Md., he was the son of the late Ernest and Mary Harvey Watson. Lewis was employed as a welder with Chrysler in Newark, Del. for 20 years. He enjoyed classic cars especially his 1967 Chevy II Nova and built several Harley Choppers. He is survived by two sons, Daniel Watson and David Watson, both of Nottingham; and their mother, Mary Watson of Bear, Del. He was preceded in death by two sisters, Mary Lee McNatt and Mae Sage. Funeral services were held on Feb. 19 at the Edward L. Collins, Jr. Funeral Home, Inc. in Oxford. Interment will be in Fremont Cemetery in Nottingham. Arrangements are being handled by the Edward L. Collins, Jr. Funeral Home, Inc. in Oxford. Online condolences may be made at www.elcollinsfuneralhome.com.
FRANK A. RYBINSKI, JR. Frank A. Rybinski, Jr. passed away on Feb. 11 at Twin Pines Health Care Center in West Grove, joining his beloved wife Florence “Pat” (Hamilton) Rybinski in Heaven. He was an 84-year-old resident of Oxford. Born on Feb. 19, 1937 in Wilmington, Del., he was the son of the late Frank A. and Helen (Ruszkowski) Rybinski. Frank graduated from Wilmington High School in the class of 1955. He advanced his education by earning a degree from the University of Delaware in accounting. His career with Hercules, Inc. in Wilmington, Del. spanned for almost 40 years. He retired in the mid-1990s. Frank was an avid Philadelphia Phillies fan, and was a
Matthew J. Grieco, Supervisor, Funeral Director / Certified Celebrant
We own and operate our own crematory Cremation, Burial, Pre-Planning
season ticket holder for many years. Frank and his wife, Pat, enjoyed traveling to different ballparks around the county to watch baseball games as well as attend Phillies Spring training in Florida. He was a big movie buff and especially enjoyed western movies in his youth. He was a good conversationalist, a good listener and had a great sense of humor. Most of all, he was a supportive and loving husband, father, grandfather, and brother. Frank is survived by his son, Craig Rybinski (Margaret) and daughter, Stephanie Crecco (Keith), and grandchildren, Bradley Rybinski (Vianey), Aidan Crecco, and Megan Crecco and his brother, Richard Rybinski. All services will be private. Arrangements are being handled by the Kuzo Funeral Home in Kennett Square. Please visit Frank’s online memorial by going to www. kuzoandfoulkfh.com.
CALL TO ADVERTISE 610-869-5553
Specializing in Personalized Life Celebration Events at Venues of all kinds 1-800-FUNERAL & 1-800-CREMATE
&+85&+ ',5(&725< $921'$/( $YRQGDOH 3UHVE\WHULDQ &KXUFK 3HQQV\OYDQLD $YHQXH ZZZ DYRQGDOHSF RUJ 6W *DEULHO RI WKH 6RUURZIXO 0RWKHU *DS 1HZSRUW 3LNH ZZZ VWJDEULHODYRQGDOHSD RUJ
8QLRQYLOOH 3UHVE\WHULDQ &KXUFK :ROODVWRQ 5RDG ZZZ XQLRQYLOOHSUHVE\WHULDQFKXUFK RUJ
.(11(77 648$5(
:(67 *529( DQG 6855281',1* $5($6
:LOORZGDOH &KDSHO 8QLRQYLOOH 5RDG ZZZ ZLOORZGDOHFKDSHO RUJ
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
$VVXPSWLRQ %90 &KXUFK 6WDWH 5RDG ZZZ DVVXPSWLRQEYPZHVWJURYH RUJ $YRQ *URYH &KXUFK RI WKH 1D]DUHQH 6WDWH 5RDG ZZZ DYRQJURYH FKXUFK :HVW *URYH 3UHVE\WHULDQ &KXUFK : (YHUJUHHQ 6WUHHW ZZZ ZHVWJURYHSUHV RUJ :HVW *URYH 8QLWHG 0HWKRGLVW &KXUFK 1 *XHUQVH\ 5RDG ZZZ ZHVWJURYHXPF RUJ :LOORZGDOH &KDSHO ² -HQQHUVYLOOH 9LQH\DUG :D\ -HQQUVYLOOH ZZZ ZLOORZGDOHFKDSHO RUJ /DQGHQEHUJ 8QLWHG 0HWKRGLVW &KXUFK 3HQQ *UHHQ 5RDG /DQGHQEHUJ ZZZ ODQGHQEHUJFKXUFK FRP &KULVWLDQ /LIH &HQWHU 6DJLQDZ 5RDG 1HZ /RQGRQ ZZZ &/&)DPLO\ FKXUFK 1HZ /RQGRQ 8QLWHG 0HWKRGLVW &KXUFK 6WDWH 5RDG 1HZ /RQGRQ ZZZ XPF RUJ 6W 0LFKDHO /XWKHUDQ &KXUFK ( 'RH 5XQ 5RDG 8QLRQYLOOH ZZZ VWPLFKDHOSD FRP
Alleluia For you equipped me with strength for the battle; you made those who rise against me sink under me.
Psalm 18:39 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.
For more information or to place an ad, contact Brenda Butt at 610-869-5553 ext. 10
6SRQVRUHG E\
Compliments of
)RXON )XQHUDO +RPH RI :HVW *URYH ,QF
.X]R )XQHUDO +RPH ,QF
&XUWLV 6 *UHHU 6XSHUYLVRU
.HHO\ : *ULIILQ 6XSHUYLVRU
Lions Club of Oxford
)DPLO\ 2ZQHG DQG 2SHUDWHG _ )XQHUDO &UHPDWLRQ 6HUYLFHV /LIH &HOHEUDWLRQV _ 3ULYDWHO\ 2ZQHG &UHPDWRU\ _ 3UH 3ODQQLQJ ZZZ NX]RDQGIRXONIK FRP
HERR FOODS, INC. NOTTHINGHAM, PA
932-9330 ENCOURAGES YOU TO ATTEND THE CHURCH OF YOUR CHOICE
P.O. Box 270 Oxford, PA 19363 Meets First and Third Thursday at 6:30p.m. Nottingham Inn, Nottingham, PA
Landenberg Church United Methodist All Are Welcome 205 Penn Green Rd. In Historic Downtown Landenberg Landenberg, PA 19350
610-274-8384 Services Every Sunday • 9:00 am
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2022
CHESTER COUNTY PRESS
3B
Chester County Press
Local News New members join Avon Grove High School Leo Club The Lions’ 14P District Governor Gary Hilbert inducted Leos into the Avon Grove High School Leo Club at a ceremony held at the school. At this ceremony, the officers of the Leo Club were also installed. The Leo of Honor award was presented to Angelina McGrath for her excellent work with the Leos. Members of the Avon Grove Lions were also in attendance, as well as parents and Leo Club Advisor Bonnie McCloskey. Leos were inducted to the Avon Grove High School Leo Club.
Pictured during the installation of officers (left to right) are District Governor Gary Hilbert, Vice President Tanvi Joshi, Community Outreach Coordinator Eden Manolescu, Leo Club President Angelina McGrath and Treasurer Sophia Trone.
Kennett Square Area Newcomers New to the area? Join the Kennett Square Area Newcomers for the first Welcome Coffee
of the year being held at Brittany Hills Clubhouse, 19 S. Henley Drive in Avondale on Wednesday,
March 9 at 10 a.m. Kennett Square Area Newcomers is a women’s club with many groups and activi-
ties throughout the year. Visit the website at KSANC.org for more information.
Courtesy photos
District Governor Gary Hilbert presents the LEO of Honor Award to Leo Club President Angelina McGrath.
4B
CHESTER COUNTY PRESS
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2022
Chester County Press
Local News County legislators, Commissioners, school superintendents discuss youth mental health needs Chester County’s school superintendents shared their concerns regarding the increased demand for mental health services for students with state and county elected officials at a special information session held at the Chester County Intermediate Unit on Feb. 2. O rg a n i z e d by Pennsylvania State Rep. Christina Sappey and CCIU Executive Director Dr. George Fiore, the meeting was the culmination of work done by a smaller group formed early last summer to address youth mental health and suicide prevention needs in Chester County. This smaller work group consisted of county officials, school superintendents and staff and CCIU. They inventoried current programming and resources and identified gaps in service. The goal of this larger meeting was to bring both county and state officials together to hear directly from the superintendents. The presentation made by superintendents provided an overview of the current situation and a plan to significantly improve services and meet students’ needs. “We all share the public’s urgent concern for the mental health and safety of our kids, and for how this is landing on our schools,” said Rep. Sappey. “Accurately addressing the behavioral health needs of our students is critical to saving lives. Today we have been given a road map and I am hopeful that with bi-partisan support we can overcome these challenges.”
Fiore stressed that the schools are not looking for funding, but rather long-term solutions and partnerships with community and mental health professionals, and state and county officials. “What you will hear today is an overview of the problem that we are facing in our schools,” said Fiore. “The stress it is placing on our students and our school staff, how we are providing services to students now, and an outline of the continuum of care our students need and deserve.” Fiore then introduced superintendents from Unionville Chadds Ford, West Chester Area, Avon Grove, Downingtown Area and Phoenixville Area Districts. Each of the speakers outlined the significant issues their schools are facing in providing mental health services to students and proposed solutions, including addressing the mental health care professional shortage, embedding crisis counselors in schools, opening crisis care centers, and strengthening community partnerships. “These are issues that have been years in the making,” said Fiore. “It is going to take resources and commitment, but we owe it to our students to work together and do what needs to be done for this generation of students and for the next.” Dr. John Sanville, superintendent of the Unionville-Chadds Ford School District, spoke first regarding the critical shortage of mental health professionals. Dr. Sanville
Live-in aide needed for 38yr. old male w/ Cerebral Palsy in Kennett Square from April 1st - 16th. Must have a drivers license.
Leave message or text at 610-613-2229. Excellent pay.
referenced a report cosponsored by Rep. Kristine Howard in 2020 that studied the mental health professional shortage. The report, Pennsylvania Mental Health Care Workforce Shortage: Challenges and Solutions, commissioned by the general assembly in 2020, provided recommendations to ease the situation. According to Sanville, Pennsylvania has 422 child psychiatrists for its 2.7 million children and youth. Among the recommendations, Dr. Sanville asked to implement the findings of the 2020 report, in addition to considering loan forgiveness programs, and scholarships to college students enrolled in mental health professional programs. “I am proud to have been a cosponsor of HR193, which resulted in the Joint State Government Commission conducting a study finding many areas in which the access to mental health care could be improved in our Commonwealth,” said Rep. Howard. “In the time since, I have sought to remedy some of those care shortfalls with two new bills that would create programs to ensure adequate staffing for behavioral health facilities and expand the pool of Clinical Social Workers that can provide therapeutic services on an outpatient basis, HB2091 and HB1926. I intend to continue to work to ensure all Pennsylvanians have access to the care they need.” Sanville was followed by Dr. M. Christopher Marchese from Avon Grove School District, and Dr. Robert Sokolowski from the West Chester Area School
Courtesy photo
The Chester County legislative delegation and Commissioners met with school superintendents to discuss mental health needs of children and youth.
District, who provided the legislators with data showing the increased number of suicide risk and violent risk assessments among youth. The superintendents also provided information on the increasing number of referrals to schools from the Safe2Say tip line, which requires each school to respond to student safety tips no matter what time of day or night they are received. “We (school staff) are often getting these tips at 4 a.m. in the morning,” said Sokolowski, “and then we are reaching out to agencies to find help.” As a result, Dr. Marchese proposed a system in which crisis counselors employed by the county were assigned to school districts to assist when students were experiencing a mental health crisis. “It’s vital that we continue to prioritize mental health as both a matter of public health and a holistic approach to the education, development, and overall well-being of children, teens, and young people,” said Sen. Carolyn Comitta. “While the pandemic has
highlighted the impacts of mental health among our students, we must also consider the role of related factors, like exposure to social media, bullying, isolation, and substance abuse. “I thank Rep. Sappey and the CCIU for helping advance this important discussion and continue to work to support investments in mental health services and legislation, like my Senate Bill 791, to increase access to counselors, psychologists, social workers, and nurses in our schools.” Dr. Emilie Lonardi shared that with only one inpatient hospital to serve the entire county, they are sending students out of county regularly. Students are waiting in emergency rooms for days waiting for beds in an inpatient mental health care center, and then going out of county. Lonardi proposed the now closed Jennersville and Brandywine Hospitals be turned into crisis care centers that offer a full level of continuum care. In closing, Rep. Danielle Friel Otten, summarized the need for these ongoing discussions.
Legals 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 Thursday, March 3, 2022, at 7:00 p.m. at which time the Board will hear the following matter: In re: Application of Courtney D. Heinle and Carolina Heinle, seeking variances from Sections 162-2002.A.3.b and 1621503.B of the zoning ordinance so as to allow the construction of an in-ground residential swimming pool closer than 50 feet from the rear property line (requesting 10 feet) and with disturbance of more than 15% of the Prohibitively Steep Slope (requesting 17.45%) where no such disturbance is permitted for swimming pools, upon property located at 1005 Ballintree Lane, West Chester, PA (UPI #64-2-9) in the Township’s R-3 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-16-2t
ESTATE NOTICE
Estate of Charles Norman Griffith Late of Lincoln University, 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 the Executor, Charlene Petrag-
“It’s important for us to be honest about what is happening with our kids, and what pressures and expectations we as a society are placing on them,” Otten said. “Even before the pandemic, our kids were being crushed under the pressures of social media, testing and academic performance, and being overscheduled to the extent that they have no time in their day to just be kids. “For those of us who still remember a world without Facebook, Instagram, or smart phones, these are challenges that did not exist in our youth. Our schools, which are as central to our children’s lives as the family unit, need our help to create systems that are supportive of our youngest citizens so that our children can thrive. Speaking as both a legislator and a mom to two elementary-age children, there is nothing more important right now.” The legislative briefing was attended by nearly all of the county’s legislative delegation, all three county commissioners, and all 12 Chester County superintendents.
Classifieds nani at 421 West Street Road, Kennett Square, Pa. 19348. 2p-23-3t
Auctions
ESTATE NOTICE
Notice of Self Storage Sale Please take notice US Storage Centers - Exton located at 371 Gordon Dr., Exton PA 19341 intends to hold a public sale to the highest bidder of the property stored by the following tenants at the storage facility. This sale will occur as an online auction via www.storagetreasures.com on 3/16/2022 at 10:00AM. Matthew Higgins unit #B048; David Ramos unit #C098. This sale may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Certain terms and conditions apply.
Estate of Ralph Raymond Kuhn, Late of Landenberg, 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 Ruth Ann Kuhn, Executor, 105 Reynard Dr. Landenberg, PA 19350 2p-23-3t
CALL TO ADVERTISE 610-869-5553
Help Wanted Part time office position available 2 days week at storage facility. Customer service, answer phones, computer skills, record keeping and showing units for rent. All applicants welcome. Call 610-444-5708
Andy's Lawn Care Lawn & Field Mowing Aerating & Overseeding Lawn Renovation Seasonal Cleanups Mulching Landscaping Tree & Stump Removal Lot & Land Clearing Grading & Drainage Snow Removal
(610) 274-2273 Office or (610) 721-3119 cell
Trailer Repair Welding
Truck Acces. Spray Liners
See these local BASHER & SON businesses and many more on our website - Click 610-268-0007 • basherandson.com Directory
Over 40 Years Experience UHAUL
Hitches
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2022
CHESTER COUNTY PRESS
5B
Chester County Press
Local News The Giant Company earns top score in 2022 corporate equality index Marks fourth year in a row earning 100 on the Human Rights Campaign Foundation’s annual assessment of LGBTQ+ workplace equality For the fourth year in a row, The Giant Company has received a score of 100 on the Human Rights Campaign Foundation’s Corporate Equality Index, the nation’s foremost benchmarking survey and report measuring corporate policies and practices related to LGBTQ+ workplace equality. The Giant Company joins the ranks of more than 840 major U.S. businesses that also earned top marks this year. “Each and every team member makes us the brand that we are, and this distinction again highlights our ongoing commitment to creating a workplace culture of inclusion and belonging,” said Matt Lutcavage, vice president of team experience. “We are real people serving real people which is why at The Giant Company everyone is respected, valued, heard, and welcomed just the way we are.” “When the Human Rights Campaign Foundation created the Corporate Equality Index 20 years ago, we dreamed that LGBTQ+ workers—from the factory floor to corporate headquarters, in big cities and small towns—could have access to the policies and benefits needed to thrive and live life authentically,” said Jay Brown, senior vice presi-
dent of programs, research and training, Human Rights Campaign. “We are proud that the Corporate Equality Index paved the way to that reality for countless LGBTQ+ workers in America and abroad. But there is still more to do, which is why we are raising the bar yet again to create more equitable workplaces and a better tomorrow for LGBTQ+ workers everywhere. “Congratulations to The Giant Company for achieving the title of ‘best places to work for LGBTQ+ equality’ and working to advance inclusion in the workplace.” The results of the 2022 CEI showcase how 1,271 U.S.-based companies are not only promoting LGBTQ+-friendly workplace policies in the U.S., but also for the 56 percent of CEI-rated companies with global operations who are helping advance the cause of LGBTQ+ inclusion in workplaces abroad. The Giant Company’s efforts in satisfying all the CEI’s criteria earned a 100 percent ranking and the designation as one of the Best Places to Work for LGBTQ+ Equality. In 2002, the first year of the CEI, only 13 companies achieved a top-score, demonstrating the incredible impact the CEI has
had on the business world over its 20-year life. This year’s CEI reflects growth across every measurement category, from the adoption of inclusive non-discrimination policies to equitable health care benefits for transgender employees.
The CEI rates employers providing these crucial protections to over 20 million U.S. workers and an additional 18 million abroad. Companies rated in the CEI include Fortune magazine’s 500 largest publicly traded businesses, American
Lawyer magazine’s top 200 revenue-grossing law firms (AmLaw 200), and hundreds of publicly and privately held mid- to largesized businesses. The CEI rates companies on detailed criteria falling under four central
pillars: non-discrimination policies across business entities; equitable benefits for LGBTQ+ workers and their families; supporting an inclusive culture; and corporate social responsibility. The full report is available online at www.hrc.org/cei.
West Chester University dance team brings home the Gold Courtesy photo
The West Chester University Dance Team has brought home the gold as 2022 Open Division Hip Hop National Champions. The team won for the first time in West Chester University Dance Team history at the elite competition produced by the Universal Cheerleaders Association and Universal Dance Association held at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex on Jan. 16 at The Walt Disney World in Orlando, FL. State Senators Carolyn Comitta and Robert “Tommy” Tomlinson have invited the national champions to the Pennsylvania State Capitol in Harrisburg this spring to receive special recognition for their achievement, and ESPN will soon schedule a broadcast of the team’s winning performance.
6B
CHESTER COUNTY PRESS
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2022
Kohler Crushed Stone Showers By Home Smart
Project time:
2 weeks
2 DAYS.
Why settle for shower walls that look like plastic? Home Smart Industries is the areas only Authorized Dealer of Kohler’s LuxStone shower wall system made of 70% real crushed marble and professionally installed at prices comparable to acrylic showers. When you have our Kohler LuxStone Design Consultants to your home for a Design Consultation, you will be given an exact, to the penny price including all labor, materials, removal, haul away, installation and permits. No surprise costs AND we honor that price for 1 year GUARANTEED. All of the design and product selection is done in your home, saving you time and ensuring the choices work perfectly with your space. We offer senior & military discounts as well as other discounts plus financing so a shower remodel is affordable on any budget. Don’t cover your problem up with a tub or shower liner. Design your bathtub or shower replacement with our trained and certified Specialists at a price you can afford.
“Great experience with Home Smart. I collected a couple quotes for a bathtub/surround replacement. Home Smart offered the most aesthetically pleasing option at a competitive price. They also beat the installation lead time estimate by ~4 weeks. Ken and Tony came and efficiently completed the install. My house is old and there were challenges to work with, but they worked through them and in the end, product looks really great. Thanks!” Read more reviews from our satisfied customers! 4.9 Stars, 374 reviews
INDUSTRIES Bathtubs | Showers | Kohler Walk-In Baths
Authorized Dealer
1,000 OFF
$
plus
0 APR %
Low monthly payment plans
and
FREE ESTIMATES ON BATH
& SHOWER REPLACEMENTS
Call Home Smart today to schedule your free in-home estimate.
Home Smart Industries, Family Owned & Operated
888-670-3731 >Must call this number<
Bathtubs | Walk-In Baths | Showers | Shower Doors | Fixtures | Faucets | Accessories
www.HomeSmartind.com
*Cannot be combined with any other offer. Previous sales excluded. Good at initial presentation only. $1,000 discount is only available to be used towards purchasing Luxstone walls. Additional work is extra and optional. Financing available for qualified buyers. Exp. 09/01/2021 PA:PA013302 * NJ: 13VH 04301900 MD: MD129485 * DE: 2008206060 NO PRICE QUOTES GIVEN VIA PHONE.