Chester County Press 03-08-2023 Edition

Oxford Area Historical Association plans to purchase former Union School building

By Betsy Brewer Brantner

Borough Council and the Oxford School Board, tutored and mentored students at the Oxford schools, was a trustee at Lincoln University and delivered Meals on Wheels

for over 25 years. He was also a driving force in building the local Democratic Party. He had a beautiful voice that many heard at various events and functions at the Oxford Presbyterian Church. His passing leaves a huge hole in the community. Borough Council members expressed their deepest condolences to his wife, large extended family, and many friends.

In other council business, Executive Director Krys Sipple and board member

Carolyn Hess spoke on behalf of the Oxford Area Historical Association (OAHA) to the Oxford Borough Council about plans for a new home for the organization.

OAHA had previously written to the borough to ask for a distribution of ARPA funds in order to purchase the old Union School Building at S. Fifth and Hodgson Streets in town—this is the old school district administration building. OAHA has outgrown the space they are currently in, and they have been look-

ing for new space for several years.

The Union School building has already been renovated to include an accessible entrance ramp, handicapped bathrooms, a full-building HVAC system

Continued on page 2A

Courtesy photo

The Oxford Area Historical Association plans to purchase the Union School Building at the intersection of Hodgson and S. Fifth Street for their new location.

Kennett Square Borough will host a strategic planning session for the public on Monday, March 13.

The session will start at 6 p.m at Borough Hall. During this session, residents will have the opportunity to share their thoughts, priorities, and vision for the borough’s future in a collaborative format. All residents are welcome and encouraged to participate.

Stroud Center hosts World Water Day celebration

Stroud Water Research Center will be hosting an outdoor, family-friendly event in celebration of World Water Day on March 22. The event along the scenic banks of the White Clay Creek at Stroud Water Research Center (970 Spencer Road) in Avondale takes place from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. that day. Activities will include the discovery of live stream bugs (aquatic macroinvertebrates) at the Watershed

Continued on page 2A

Finance team has implemented

‘controls

and transparency’

Kennett Township’s books receive high praise from auditor

By Richard L. Gaw Staff Writer

When the accounting firm of Maillie LLP was first appointed as the auditor for Kennett Township in 2019, the township was embroiled in the big muddy of a scandal that threatened to permanently tear down

the governing walls of an entire municipality.

Nearly from the time she was promoted to township manager in 2010, Lisa Moore had oversight and access to virtually all of the township’s financial operations. For nearly eight years, Moore engaged in several clandestine, multi-

pronged schemes to steal money from the township. Moore’s accounting methods were hard to track, and because she was the keeper of the keys to the township’s entire accounting system, there were no checks and balances to monitor the personal shell game she was playing with

the township’s money.

Following a monthslong investigation by the Chester County District Attorney’s Office and a thorough scrubbing of the township’s accounting methods by a forensic auditor, Moore was arrested on Dec. 10, 2019, and on October 4, 2021 in a

West Chester courtroom, she was taken into custody on five counts stemming from her embezzlement of more than $3.2 million from the township beginning in 2013 and ending in 2019.

As she was being led out of the courtroom in

Continued on page 6A

Avondale puts out a call for historical relics

By Chris Barber

Contributing Writer

Avondale Mayor Susan Rzucidlo is asking area residents to submit historical relics for display.

She added that she hopes to set aside the walls, nooks, crannies and floors of the borough building on Pomeroy Avenue to show objects that give meaning to Avondale’s past.

That process is in fact already underway, she said. It will pick up steam

when the weather warms as she and volunteers are more comfortable rooting through the borough’s unheated storage areas to find what else lies there.

“Once it gets warm, we’ll begin pulling things out,” she said.

Rzucidlo is enthusiastic about the project. She said that since she took her post as mayor in January 2022, she has become even more aware that Avondale has much to showcase historically. She’s eager to get

that history accessible to the public.

“Avondale is more than just a place you drive through on the way to the beach,” she said.

Avondale has connections to the Underground Railroad, a longtime fire company, the roots of the mushroom industry and the Lenni Lenape Indigenous People, among other things, she said.

In his 130-page book Images of America Avondale local author Bob

Photo by Chris Barber Avondale Borough has obtained a very old $20 bill issued by a bank in Avondale and signed by a person named Pusey – a prominent Avondale family to this day. Cleveland also mentions blacksmith shops, lime kilns, an iron foundry, a lumber mill, a marble and

granite company, meat markets, schools, churches and banks.

Historical Association...

Continued from Page 1A and generator, so it would require very few alterations to make it an ideal location for OAHA. The building would allow them to consolidate their extensive collections into one space that is accessible to the public. There would also be space for volunteers to work, local residents to conduct research, college students to pursue internships, and school children to tour. It is located directly next to Jordan Bank Elementary School, and with Penn’s Grove Middle School nearby, this location would be ideal for working on joint projects with students. A 40-space parking lot and a small side yard are included with the building, which would allow OAHA space for outdoor displays and events.

On Friday, Feb. 24, OAHA signed an agreement of sale for the Union School building, and attached to it is a very affordable fiveyear lease that will allow the OAHA the time to raise money to purchase the building. They will be starting a capital campaign to raise funds for the building, and Philip Sapp and April Herr have agreed to be the campaign co-chairs. OAHA is now starting to reach out to other members of the community for their help with the campaign, and will be doing a public announcement in the near future.

The Oxford Area Historical Association is passionately dedicated to the conservation of Oxford and the surrounding townships. Their geographical focus is on the entire area covered by the Oxford Area School District. They present monthly programs on a variety of historical topics, record oral histories of longtime Oxford residents, organize

walking tours, co-sponsor reenactment programs in the school district, and arrange trips to historical sites. The OAHA archives collection is currently housed at 140142 Locust St. in downtown Oxford, with other historical objects stored in two climate-controlled storage units. They have been limited in the materials they can accept from residents who wish to preserve area history because of space restrictions.

OAHA hopes that the Oxford Borough Council will be willing to give a financial contribution toward this building campaign, whether that is through their ARPA funds or another avenue. ARPA stands for The American Rescue Plan Act, signed by President Biden on March 11, 2021. It provides for the distribution of federal fiscal recovery funding to states, tribal governments, metropolitan cities, counties, and non-entitlement units (NEUs) of local governments, which generally have populations below 50,000.

OAHA is so much more than a collection of old things—the organization collects stories about the area. The potential purchase of the Union School Building would be transformational for the organization, allowing it to extend the work that is done to create a strong sense of community in the greater Oxford area through stories of shared history.

Borough Council listened intently to OARA’s request. The property was previously owned by PC Scales and was renovated extensively under their ownership, while leaving the historic character outside virtually intact. As such, it would require few alterations by OARA.

This facility would serve as a “Gateway to Chester County,” continuing to preserve the rich history of Chester County, especially

the southern part.

Borough Council held their first ACOLA (Advisory Council of Latino Affairs) meeting before the regularly scheduled council meeting. The council room was filled with a diverse group eager to begin the next step in the formation of the ACOLA.

Sara Dickens-Trillo, the director of operations for Mighty Writers, attended the meeting and was very encouraged by council’s plan to reach out and welcome the Latino community and to encourage them to have a voice in the local government.

On Jan. 23, Borough Council unanimously approved a motion to appoint Raul Juarez-Lara Jr. to Borough Council to fill a seat left vacant when Mary-Laura Buchner-Hulse resigned. Appointing Raul Juarez-Lara, Jr. was a muchhoped for outcome.

The formation of the ACOLA is moving forward and is another sign of progress.

Dickens- Trillo told council, “We are encouraged that you want to let the Latino community know that you support them. They need someone like Raul here. They want to feel welcome.”

She continued, “Creating downtown events that work with the Latino community is a great place to start. Establishing an ACOLA where the Latino community can verbalize their needs is also very important.”

Borough Manager Pauline Garcia-Allen added, “We need to have the Latino community involved in the Active Transportation Community.”

One suggestion at the meeting was the need for a cultural center in Oxford. A meeting with the ACOLA group in Kennett is also being planned.

The next ACOLA meeting is scheduled for March 20.

In other business, Police Chief Sam Iacono updated council on the accreditation process which includes police policies and continued structural work to the facility.

Iacono told council that Officer Cruz would be sent to Impact Driving School. She will then be teaching students about hazards to be aware of when driving, about respecting other people on the road, and how to conduct oneself when pulled over by the police.

The total police involvements for the month of January was 769, Iacono reported.

Mayor Phil Harris said that construction in the basement of the police building is moving along. There was also a meeting at the station with officers regarding dealing with the issue of communication and the radios. They are also working of teen driving before the prom.

Borough solicitor Stacey Fuller updated council regarding their handling of right-to-know requests. She informed council that the Moran Development planning meeting will resume on March 29. A request for an extension on the Ware development plan has also been granted. Fuller also said contract negotiations with Comcast continues.

Council approved the following at the meeting:

• Acceptance of Civil Service Resolution #2023001 regarding the eligibility list for the position as patrol officer for the Borough of Oxford.

• Approval of Resolution #1352-2023 confirming the appointment of William Fitzpatrick to Oxford Borough Council

• Approval of Resolution #1353-2023 confirming the appointment of Raul JuarezLara, Jr. to Oxford Borough Council

• A curb waiver request for 25 S. 5th Street.

Fulton Bank invests $1 million in Innovate Capital Growth Fund

will fund growth for minority- and women-owned businesses in the Mid-Atlantic region

Fulton Bank, a subsidiary of Fulton Financial Corporation, has invested $1 million in Innovate Capital Growth Fund, L.P., which provides capital and operational expertise to enable minority- and women-owned businesses to grow.

The investment is part of Fulton Bank’s Commercial

EDITOR'S NOTEBOOK

Continued from Page 1A

Education Mobile Lab, stream ecology videos, a bilingual (Spanish and English) reading of the Creek Critters children’s picture book, tours of the Stroud Center, and an electrofishing demonstration to learn how real scientists sample eels, trout, and other underwater neighbors in White Clay Creek. On The Roll food truck will be on site with delicious dinner options.

The event is free and attendees can take home a free tree.

Local author Bruce E. Mowday plans book talk

Chester County author Bruce E. Mowday will appear at the Tel Hai Retirement Community on Monday, March 20 to talk about his newest book, Lafayette at Brandywine: The Making of an American Hero, and his other books and writing. The event will begin at 7 p.m.

Mowday has authored more than 20 books on history, true crime, sports and business, and has written two books connected with the battle of Brandywine. For information on Mowday and his books, visit www.mowday.com. To contact Mowday about signed copies of his books or to schedule an appearance, contact him at mowday@mowday.com.

The Tel Hai Retirement Community is located at 1200 Tel Hai Circle in Honey Brook.

LED lights coming to West Grove Borough

West Grove Borough is beginning the process of changing all street lighting in town over to LED lights.

The borough is working in conjunction with Keystone Lighting Solutions and Armour & Sons on the project. The change to LED lighting will not only improve the lighting in town, it will also save the borough money on maintenance and electrical rates. It is estimated that LED lights will pay for themselves in under 10 years because of the savings in maintenance and electrical rate costs. The borough is asking residents to be patient during the installation process.

Affinity Banking initiative, which is designed to increase access to financial services for diverse businesses.

“Fulton Bank’s investment will advance our mission of connecting institutions with minority businesses, unlocking the potential for future growth,” said Innovate Capital Growth

Fund partner Della Clark.

“There are more than 3,200 minority-owned and 8,800 women-owned businesses in our target market in the Mid-Atlantic region, and providing them with equity capital represents a significant opportunity to contribute to overall economic growth.”

Based in Philadelphia,

Innovate Capital Growth Fund is a Small Business Investment Company (SBIC) focused on providing equity investments in women- and minorityowned lower middle market firms in the Mid-Atlantic region. Innovate Capital Growth Fund typically works with businesses with annual revenues of approximately $2 million to $10 million from a range

of industries, including manufacturing, consumer products, technology, and healthcare services.

“Fulton Bank is com-

mitted to ensuring that businesses in the communities we serve have access to the capital and banking services that will empower them to grow and thrive,” said Curtis J. Myers, chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Fulton Financial Corporation. “We are excited about the opportunity to invest in Innovate Capital Growth Fund, which is focused on supporting diverse businesses.”

“This investment in Innovate Capital Growth Fund is part of Fulton Bank’s Commercial Affinity Banking Program,” said Joel Barnett, senior vice president and director of Commercial Affinity Banking. “As part of that program, we are creating a suite of commercial banking solutions which includes access to capital and deposits and payments. Fulton bankers are undergoing training on these new programs and resources to develop expertise in assisting diverse businesses.”

Courtesy photo

Innovate Capital Growth Fund partner Della Clark and Fulton Financial Corporation chairman and CEO Curtis J. Myers celebrate the bank’s investment to help fund growth for minority- and women-owned businesses.

Avondale...

Continued from Page 1A

The walls of the Avondale Borough building hold a hint of what is to come: There are historical pictures of a past roller rink, of Philadelphia Electric headquarters with the name Avondale in lights, and a framed $20 bill issued by the Avondale Bank and signed by an officer named Pusey.

In the long run, Rzucidlo is confident that the locals will have plenty more to offer.

Historical collector and lecturer David Porter of Elkton, Md., who grew up in West Grove and worked as a surveyor, said he is interested in the Avondale project and is eager to help out.

Porter, 67, is a member of the Chester County Historical Society and president of the Tri-State Bottle and Digger Club. He lectures widely and is also instrumental in the development of the New London Presbyterian Church onsite museum. He was heavily involved in the historical display at the Red Rose Inn as well. He also has a museum in his house and said he has an immense collection of bottles.

Porter said historical displays don’t hang themselves. They take work, and their continued operation involves a process.

“It takes at least five or six people to work on a small museum,” he said.

The tasks are varied and among other things involve the following: Intake with identifications and receipts; record keeping; safe (and potentially expensive) display cases and frames -and financing them; safety of the objects; set up and operation of a computer program for the project; and writing up descriptions and stories to be posted with the objects.

Porter said he loves collecting and studying history. When he was asked where he gets his historical relics and information, he said mostly word of mouth and online research. He added that people tell him,

“We knew you were the person to contact.”

He praised social media and the rise of technology for making obtaining historical relics easier. Ever since communication went online, much more trading, buying and selling of objects is possible than at any time in the past.

When asked what his favorite object to find is, he said old registrations -- not just for hotels and events but for businesses and farms.

“Those farmers used to list every single cow and chicken, and you can research the names of families as well,” he said.

Standing by as well to offer help when the final arrangements are cemented are the members of Boy Scout Troop 191 of Avondale.

Merely participating in

almost any community project will earn the individual students school service points. More deeply rooted in the scouting mission, however, is working to enhance the community.

Scout troop committee chairman Jeffrey Chase wrote this:

“It’s definitely going to provide an opportunity for the scouts in our troop to get a deeper view into this community’s past. Not everyone realizes a tenet of scouting is community. Not just community service but citizenship and understanding that we live in a society with governing bodies, elected official and legislators, volunteer firefighters and EMTs.”

Rzucidlo said she’s interested in receiving almost anything, from an old postcard to an original mushroom helmet with a light on it, and arrowheads would be fantastic.

She is also working to create a historical committee on the borough council that will take responsibility for the project’s continuity after the initial display is posted.

In the future, Rzucidlo hopes to have the display open to the public concurrent with borough building hours and to offer special events, lectures or even scheduled open houses for outside groups.

The borough building is at 110 Pomeroy Ave. and is open Monday through Thursday 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Friday 7 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Courtesy photo

Boy Scout Troop 191 stands ready to help with the historical relic project.

Photo by Chris Barber

The borough was given an old painting of a now-gone roller rink in Avondale.

Michael & Nancy Pia Foundation to partner with The Garage on new maker space

Youth center also receives $25,000 in state funding to support career development programs

By Richard L. Gaw Staff Writer

For more than two decades, under the direction of its board, its staff and its volunteers, The Garage Community & Youth Center has been matching the aspirations of the thousands of students it has served with an equal amount of programs intended to help achieve their dreams.

Along the way, they have also been guided by the angels of the southern Chester County community – from business to government to private foundations -- who have been a part of the financial backbone of the organization since its beginning. Recently, The Garage received two additional gifts that will help pave the way for students, both creatively and as they begin to design their future.

In partnership with the Michael & Nancy Pia Foundation, The Garage will be developing a maker space at its Avondale location, which will serve as a space for students and the community to tap into creativity, expression, hobbies, skills, and much more. The proposed space will include supplies and tools for various forms of art and skills including pottery, painting, woodworking and more, and once completed will

be under the supervision of trained professionals in each area.

Garage students will be able to access this space and work in a creative a la carte fashion. Further, the space will be open to the community for classes, rental opportunities, and local artist events.

The Foundation has previously worked with other local institutions including the Kennett Library, the YMCA of Greater Brandywine, and the Sanford School to help these organizations realize the reality of their maker space visions.

“We recognize that having a creative outlet and the resources to express one’s self is an integral part of being a person, and that’s what this space is going to provide kids, one that will be messy and fun and expressive,” said Kristin Proto, executive director of The Garage. “For our population in particular, these are the things that help them process through the challenges of life – to have a space where they can express themselves, and have an opportunity to try new things and have the time and space to do that.

“Down the line, we see this maker space as a creative outlet for the entire community that will allow us to partner with organiza-

tions and individuals and open up these resources for everyone.”

A huge thanks to Sen. Carolyn Comitta

The Garage also became the recipient of $25,000 in state grant funding to support their after-school career development programs. The funding was awarded through the Job Training and Education Programs Grant program through the Pennsylvania Department of Education, in partnership with Sen. Carolyn Comitta.

The Garage will use the funds to support its Motivating, Advancing, Powerful Students (MAPS)

and Career Compass youth programs.

“The Garage is a special place where teens and young people can access a safe, positive, productive, and fun environment to explore their interests, discover new talents, foster their skills, and prepare for future success,” Comitta said. “With this funding, The Garage can continue to serve our community with high-quality career development and professional internship opportunities in historically underserved areas. I want to thank the staff, supporters, and volunteers of The Garage for their work.”

“The MAPS program provides career exploration

and post-secondary education access to Latinx high school students who attend The Garage’s after-school programs,” Proto said. “The Garage’s Career Compass program provides paid professional summer internship opportunities for a dozen high school students annually, building their resumes, experience, and job skills.

“The students, staff, and Board of Directors at The Garage are grateful for the support of Senator Comitta and her team.”

In an effort to expand its programming to accommodate an increasing amount of students in the West Grove and Avondale communities, The Garage moved to the former Avondale Fire

House last May. Currently in the first of two renovation phases, the two-story, 11,000-square-foot facility will eventually include a multi-purpose room with a stage, two ADA-compliant bathrooms, an interior gymnasium, a full-service commercial kitchen, a meal preparation and distribution area, administrative offices, space for local non-profit and legal aid organizations.

To learn more about The Garage Community & Youth Center, please visit https://www.garageyouthcenter.org.

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

State Sen. Carolyn Comitta (left) recently met with Kristin Proto, executive director of The Garage Community & Youth Center, to announce that The Garage is the recipient of $25,000 in state funding for after-school career development programs at the nonprofit youth center.

Courtesy photos

In partnership with The Michael & Nancy Pia Foundation, The Garage Community & Youth Center will be expanding its Avondale location to include a dedicated maker space for students.

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Chester County praised by U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development for increase in stable housing options

Since June 2022, Chester County has rehoused 149 homeless households and added 111 affordable housing units

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) recently lauded Chester County’s House America efforts to rehouse individuals experiencing homelessness by providing stable housing options, and for increasing the county’s affordable home options. Since becoming a House America partner in June 2022, Chester County has rehoused 149 homeless households and added 111 affordable housing units, with more housing initiatives set for 2023 and beyond.

Chester County

Commissioners chair Marian Moskowitz said, “We are committed to ensuring that everyone who wants to live in this county has affordable housing options available to them. As a House America partner we are effectively using federal funds, including American Rescue Plan Act funds, plus state and local resources, to expand the number of homes that are available to all. Housing insecurity affects too many in our community, and HUD’s House America initiative is helping us address this problem.”

“On any given night,

Kennett Township...

Continued from Page 1A

handcuffs, Moore left the remaining members of Kennett Township to clear up the financial mess she had orchestrated and left behind.

At the township’s Board of Supervisors’ meeting on March 1 – held at the refurbished meeting room at the Township Building, which had been closed since last August because of a mold infestation – Finance and Human Resources Director

Amy Heinrich took a threeyear snapshot of how the township has improved its accounting system, from innovative software to the checks and balances of accountability.

approximately 400 people are experiencing homelessness here in Chester County, and beyond that, many others are struggling to afford rent, let alone buy a place to live,” said Commissioner Josh Maxwell. “This explains the importance of our commitment to the House America initiative and our focus on finding ways to provide homes for everyone.”

Affordable housing options that opened in 2022 in Chester County include 111 new units in West Chester and Kennett Square. The Willows at Valley Run in Caln Township will see 120 new affordable rental units, funded partly by $1.9 million from the county. Also in Caln Township, Habitat for Humanity is acquiring land to build 25 to 30 affordable singlefamily homes for first-time homebuyers, made possible through a $640,000 County grant. Habitat for Humanity has also received $500,000 in ARPA funds from Chester County to complete 100 housing rehabilitation projects within the City of Coatesville over the next three years.

In November of last year, ground was broken on Phoenixville Commons, a

When Maillie partner Christopher N. Herr conducted the township’s 2019 audit, he said that he found eight weaknesses that included several discrepancies with interfund balances, fund balances, cash disbursements, expenses, journal entries and cash receipts, as well as a segregation of duties.

He called it “a rough audit.”

“We just couldn’t find stuff,” said Herr, who presented a summary of the township’s 2021 audit at the meeting. “Journal entries were nonsensical. The segregation of duties were being [coordinated] by one person, who was way too involved in the entire process, rather than having different people to

senior housing development of 51 units located in the center of Phoenixville. The Villas of West Whiteland – 35 affordable units – has been awarded Low Income Housing Tax Credits and County HUD funding.

Commissioner Michelle Kichline said, “We pledge to continue planning and partnering with our municipalities, developers, and our state and federal govern-

split the load and check things. We had interfund balances that didn’t agree with each other, and balances rolling from one year to the other that didn’t work.

“The first thing I tried to do when I first came here was find where the internal controls were. What are the processes? What is happening here? There was a lot of improvement from 2019 to 2020. There might have been one or two lingering things, but going from 2019 to 2020 was like going from night to day.

“We’re still looking at a lot of stuff, but we’re not finding anywhere near what we found back in 2019.”

In his report, Herr said that township revenues increased more than $3

ments to help those who want to live in Chester County. Making housing that is safe and affordable for more people isn’t just the smart thing to do – it is the right thing to do.”

“Chester County is proud to have joined the House America initiative, and as noted, we pledge to respond with urgency to homelessness and housing insecurities in our commu-

million in 2021, from $8.78 million in 2020 to $12.1 million in 2021. On the expenditure side of the ledger, the township’s expenses jumped $2 million, from $7.1 million in 2020 to $9.1 million in 2021. This increase was due to one-time revenues and expenses such as recovery and related expenses, grant revenue and related project expenses, and other capital expenditures. Herr said that the only “material weakness” he found in the township’s 2021 audit report was in the area of escrow accounting, but gave the township high marks.

“Going forward, now that things are starting to settle a little bit, I see us starting to back off a little bit on some of the samples – still keeping it well within the industry standards, but I don’t see the risk being as high in 2022 as it was when we came in 2019,” he said.

nity by setting and achieving ambitious re-housing and housing creation goals,” said Dolores Colligan, director of the Chester County Department of Community Development.

“Our commitment remains strong with an additional 206 approved affordable units in active development, and 105 pending units in the pipeline for Chester County.”

‘Controls and transparency’

In her presentation, Heinrich pointed to the township’s hiring of a qualified finance team and incorporating the Sage Intacct accounting system in 2021 as major factors that have tightened up the township’s financial processes and procedures, and implemented “best-in-class controls.”

“The most important thing [implemented by the township] in the last few years has been controls and transparency,” Heinrich said of the progress made to the township’s way of conducting financial business. “We’re here to tell you everything. We’re not hiding anything. We are making everything public to give the highest level of confidence and transparency.

“This is what we have been aiming for all along – to really be sure that we are doing

House America – a nationwide partnership with HUD, the U.S. Interagency Council on Homelessness (USICH), states, counties, and local leaders – was created in September 2021 to respond to the urgent homelessness crisis. The program is administered locally by the Chester County Department of Community Development.

everything we can to control the risk and build confidence in local government.”

Township Manager Eden Ratliff praised Heinrich and her team.

“This has been a heavy lift,” Ratliff said. “A lot of familiar faces have been on this journey with us since we started in September and October of 2019. It’s almost kind of sad to try to boil it all down to one power point presentation, because it doesn’t reflect the amount of work that the team has done.

“The journey is not over, so we’re not celebrating just yet, but it’s good to take a moment to pause and reflect on the amount of progress that we have made and how much confidence we believe that the community can have in the financial oversight and controls for the township.”

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

Courtesy photo

In this November 2022 photo, the County Commissioners and staff from the county’s Department of Community Development joined developer Hankin Group at the ground-breaking for Phoenixville Commons, a 50-unit affordable senior housing project.

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.

Preserving history is worth the effort…

In this issue of the Chester County Press, there are two stories that should be heartening to those people who appreciate local history and want to see it preserved and protected and on full display for future generations.

The Oxford Area Historical Association recently made a presentation at an Oxford Borough Council meeting about its years-long effort to find a new home for all

The Chester County Safe Schools Summit is set for Thursday, March 30. This year’s event will focus on how parents can keep their children safe online in a rapidly changing digital world.

Organized by the Chester

of the historical items and documents in its collection.

The Oxford Area Historical Association recently reached an agreement of sale for the Union School Building at S. Fifth and Hodgson streets, near the school campus.

The story noted that this building is suited well to the needs of the Historical Association. The building has already been renovated to include an accessible entrance ramp, handicapped bathrooms, a full-building

HVAC system and generator, so it would require very few alterations in the near future to make it a good home. The building has space that would allow the Historical Association to consolidate the extensive collections into one space that is accessible to the public. There would also be space for volunteers to work, for local residents to conduct research, for college students to pursue internships, and for school

children to tour. There’s even a 40-space parking lot and a small side yard included with the building, which would provide the Historical Association the space needed for outdoor displays and events.

The Oxford Area Historical Association will be starting a capital campaign to raise funds to complete the purchase of the building. We hope that local municipalities, organizations, businesses, and residents

will support this very worthwhile effort.

In Avondale Borough, mayor Susan Rzucidlo is asking area residents to submit historical relics for display in the borough building, providing space for pictures and items that give meaning to Avondale’s past.

Ever since Rzucidlo became the mayor in January of 2022, she has become aware that Avondale Borough has much to showcase historically. She’s eager

…Safe schools are, too

County Intermediate Unit, the event will provide parents with the opportunity to learn from Detective Bernard Martin and Danielle Moore, education and outreach specialist for the Pennsylvania Office of

Attorney General, two experienced professionals with a passion for internet safety.

At the Chester County Safe Schools Summit, parents will learn about current social media apps and platforms, increase their awareness of

digital interaction threats and identify steps they can take to keep their children safe. Martin and Moore will explore the digital connections children make through social media, gaming systems and various online

Financial Focus

to get that history accessible to the public, and local residents will be able to see all the historic relics on display during the regular business hours at borough hall.

Rzucidlo, who has been a very active mayor since she was elected to the post, is hoping that there will be a new Historical Committee in the borough. We applaud these efforts to preserve and showcase local history.

applications. There will also be time allotted for a question and answer session.

The program takes place from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. via Zoom.

Kudos to the Chester County Intermediate Unit for

Can you count on Social Security?

If you’re getting closer to retirement, you might be thinking more about Social Security, specifically whether or not you will be able to count on it to contribute part of the income you will need once you retire.

There’s been an increase in alarming language surrounding the solvency of Social Security, but in reality, its prospects are not nearly as gloomy as you might have heard.

Here’s the story: Under current law, Social Security is estimated to exhaust its trust funds by 2035, after which benefits could be cut by 20 percent, according to the 2022 Social Security Trustees report. However, the large cost of living adjustment (COLA) (8.7 percent) for 2023 could cause the trust funds to use

up their resources sooner.

But this outlook may represent a worst-case scenario. For one thing, the cost of the 2023 COLA will be somewhat offset by higher taxes on workers contributing to Social Security. The maximum amount of earnings subject to the 6.2 percent Social Security tax jumped from $147,000 in 2022 to $160,200 in 2023. And in looking down the road, further increases in this earnings cap may also help reduce the gap in the trust funds. Increasing the payroll tax is another possibility for boosting funding to Social Security.

And here’s a political reality: Social Security is a popular program and it’s unlikely that any future Congress wants to be blamed for reducing benefits. Of

course, there are no guarantees, but it seems fair to say that you can reasonably expect some benefits from Social Security when you retire.

But perhaps the bigger issue is just how much you should depend on Social Security for your retirement income.

On average, Social Security benefits will provide about 30 percent of a beneficiary’s preretirement earnings, according to the Social Security Administration.

But the higher your earnings before you retire, the lower the percentage that will be replaced by Social Security.

Still, you’ll want to maximize the benefits that are available to you — and that means deciding when to start taking Social Security. You can begin as early as 62, but your monthly payments

Opinion

could be as much as 30 percent lower than your normal (or “full”) retirement age, which will likely be between 66 and 67.

Even if you were to wait until your full retirement age before collecting Social Security, you’ll also need to draw on other sources of funding. So, while you are still working, it’s a good idea to keep contributing to your IRA and 401(k) or other employer-sponsored retirement plan.

The amount you contribute should depend on your overall financial strategy and your financial needs, so, for example, you probably shouldn’t put in so much into your retirement accounts that you feel significant stress in your monthly cash flow. But when you do get a chance to invest more

Time to act now to prevent sexual harassment by House members

By State Rep. Jason Ortitay 46th Legislative District

On Jan. 27 in Philadelphia, during one of the stops of the Speaker’s Workgroup to Move Pennsylvania Forward listening tour, an allegation of sexual harassment was made against a sitting member of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives.

It takes courage to make an allegation like this, particularly in our state Capitol against a lawmaker. I stood with and supported a victim of sexual assault when a worse situation occurred several years ago with a former member. I saw

the toll it took. Unfortunately, the culture under the dome in Harrisburg has long been unsettling, even before my arrival. This needs to change.

Sexual assault or harassment is something nobody should have to tolerate while doing their job. We have an opportunity to easily remedy this now in the soon-to-be-voted House regular session rules for the 2023-24 Legislative Session. Last session, Rep.

Kate Klunk authored House Resolution 192, which would have expanded House ethical conduct rules and procedures to sexual harassment complaints made by anyone

against a member or officer of the House in circumstances related to their office or employment. Prior rules only applied when the complaint was made by a member or employee of the House.

“Justice for the victims of sexual misconduct.” This was a quote repeated over and over again in our first session week back since November 2022. Ironically, Rep. Klunk was barred from adding language similar to House Resolution 192 to the House special session rules.

As a member of the speaker’s workgroup, I feel it is important to continue to pursue this rule change so

that every lawmaker is held accountable for their actions while doing their job no matter the location or with whom they may be working. As was stated in the testimony to the workgroup “harassment is not a partisan issue.”

I highly encourage the speaker and whomever is writing rules for regular session to include the language from House Resolution 192. This will hold lawmakers accountable through the House ethics process and give both the testifier at the Philadelphia listening tour stop and the accused lawmaker an opportunity for a fair process that can deliver justice.

the Safe Schools Summit. Schools in the U.S. have never been more dangerous than they are today, and programs like this that can help improve the safety of schools in Chester County are worthwhile endeavors. in these accounts, such as when your salary goes up, you may want to take advantage of the opportunity.

Ultimately, you should be able to count on Social Security as part of your retirement income. You may want to consult with a financial professional to determine when taking Social Security makes the most sense for you and how you can also get the most from your other retirement accounts. You’ll want a retirement income strategy that’s built for the long run.

This article was written by Edward Jones for use by Joe Oliver, Financial Advisor for Edward Jones, Member SIPC.

Edward Jones, its employees and financial advisors cannot provide tax or legal advice. You should consult your attorney or qualified tax advisor regarding your situation.

Joe Oliver

Joe Oliver is a lifelong Oxfordian, husband, father, and financial advisor with Edward Joes Investments. Joe services business owners and individual investors by helping them accomplish their financial goals. For a complimentary financial consultation, connect with Joe at Joe.Oliver@ Edwardjones.com.

Joe Oliver, AAMS® Financial Advisor 2250 Baltimore Pike Oxford, Pa., 19363 484-702-9311 www.edwardjones.com/ joe-oliver

County’s Human Services director elected to Board of PA Association of County Human Services Administrators

Pat Bokovitz,

Courtesy photo Pat Bokovitz, the director of Chester County’s Department of Human Services, was recently elected board member to the PA Association of County Human Services Administrators.

to serve two consecutive terms.

In the Spotlight

Despite good start against No. 1 seed, Longhorns plagued by turnovers Unionville falls to Radnor in PIAA District final, 61-36

By Richard L. Gaw Staff Writer

As it made its way to a 22-4 overall record during the 2022-23 campaign, the Unionville boys' varsity basketball team used patience, sound defense and effective shooting to win the ChestMont’s American Division, and defeat Upper Merion and Chichester to qualify for the PIAA District I 5A championship final.

On March 4, en route to holding the winners’ trophy high above them, however, the 12th-seeded Longhorns ran into a perfect team, figuratively and literally.

Radnor, the No. 1 seed in the tournament and ranked third in Pennsylvania boys basketball, extended its undefeated season to 27-0 by defeating Unionville 61-36 to win the District championship, before a crowd of 4,000 at the Liacouras Center in Philadelphia.

The game didn’t start the way it finished. After two early baskets by JT Anderson and a three-pointer by Ryan Brown, Nick Diehl scored on an inside-the-paint drive that gave Unionville a 9-5 lead with 3:24 left in the first quarter and led to a Radnor time out.

Two free throws by Radnor’s Danny Rosenblum were followed by a basket by Jackson Hicke that tied the score 9-9, but the Longhorns quickly jumped back on a three-pointer by Anderson that gave Unionville a 14-9 lead.

While the Longhorns carried a slim 14-13 lead heading into the second quarter, the tempo that the Raptors had established throughout their entire season actually began with seconds remaining in the first, when Henry Pierce hit a buzzer-beating three-pointer that shifted all momentum in the Raptors’ favor.

Highlighted by two steals by Hicke and Cooper Mueller – both of which finished with break-away slam dunks – Radnor forced Unionville to commit crucial turnovers in the second quarter (14 in all during the first half) that led to a 19-0 scoring run and gave the Raptors a comfortable 34-21 halftime lead.

“Our guys didn’t come to the ball, we didn’t have strong movements and that’s what led to the turnovers, and it actually began at the end of the first quarter,” said Unionville Coach Chris Cowles. “We had great opportunities in transition, so

we weren’t necessarily slowing down, but it really was just us not executing with strength.

“Radnor is an elite team, and we’ve had this issue throughout the year, which is that we can’t just pick and choose when we’re going to kick it in, because we’re going to get exposed, and [today] we got exposed every single time we didn’t do something strong.”

As the third quarter began, Unionville began to chip away at Radnor’s lead, by going on a 7-0 scoring run

that brought the Longhorns to within six points of tying the game. After Radnor broke a five-minute scoring slump on a Hicke basket with 2:55 left in the half, the senior then sent his team into the fourth quarter with a 40-30 lead on a basket just as the quarter expired.

Despite a desperate attempt to shave away Radnor’s growing lead in the fourth quarter, Unionville could not find the outside shooting range that has helped define its success this season, as they were completely shut down by Radnor’s defense that held the Longhorns to just six points while scoring 21 of its own.

Hicke led all scorers with 18 points, while Mueller contributed 11 points to the Raptors' win. Brenner and Anderson had 10 points apiece for Unionville.

Radnor will attempt to extend their perfect season on March 10, when they play host to the number eight seed from District 3 in the opening round of the PIAA 5A state playoffs, while Unionville (22-5) will host the district’s fifth-seeded team on the same day.

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

Student takes first place in the Chester County Spelling Bee

Christian Miller, a Stetson Middle School student, achieved first place in the 2023 Chester County Spelling Bee on Feb. 7. Miller spelled his way to victory with the winning word “formulaic” (F-O-R-M-U-LA-I-C). His victory qualifies him to compete in the Scripps National Spelling Bee in National Harbor, MD, this coming May.

Also placing in this year’s Chester County Spelling Bee were Gautam Mannem of Unionville-Chadds Ford School District (second place), Michelle Wallace from Pennsylvania Leadership Charter School (third place) and Aarush Kumar of Trefyffrin-Easttown School District (third place).

Each participant earned the invitation to compete in the Chester County

Spelling Bee by winning their individual school's spelling bee. Students prepared for the county competition by studying Scripps-provided word lists and practicing at home.

“I’m glad that the studying paid off,” Miller said when asked how he felt about his victory. “I gave the list to my mom, she said practice words and I spelled them.”

Miller doesn’t know how he’ll prepare for the next stage of his spelling career, but he’s pleasantly surprised to have made it this far.

As champion, Miller 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 and Noble gift card.

The second-place winner received a Wordle board game and a $50 Amazon gift card, and the third place winners received a Scrabble board game and a $25 Amazon gift card.

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 2023 Chester County Spelling Bee was coordinated by the Chester County Intermediate Unit (CCIU) and sponsored by CCRES –Educational and Behavioral Health Services.

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

Longhorns’ guard George Napolitano sees daylight on a second-half drive to the basket.

Courtesy photo Michelle Wallace from Pennsylvania Leadership Charter School, Gautam Mannem of Unionville-Chadds Ford School District, Christian Miller of West Chester Area School District and Aarush Kumar of Trefyffrin-Easttown School District.

Unionville’s Ryan Brown gets off a shot in the key during the third quarter of the Longhorns’ 61-36 loss to Radnor in the PIAA District I 5A championship game on March 4 at the Liacouras Center in Philadelphia.

Photos by Richard L. Gaw

Unionville’s James Brennan converts a free throw during his team’s 7-0 scoring run in the third quarter.

Charlie Kammeier finds an open lane.

VIRGIL VERNON BLEVINS

Virgil Vernon Blevins, 97, of West Grove, passed away on Feb. 27, 2023, at his residence. He was the husband of Edna Shoemate Blevins, who passed away in 2009, and with whom he shared 33 years of marriage.

Born in Lansing, N.C., he was the son of the late Mckinley Blevins and the late Lefie McNeill Blevins.

Virgil was a machinist 2nd class at NVF in Yorklyn, Del. and retired in 1983 after 32 years of service. He served his country in the U.S. Army during World War II.

Virgil enjoyed traveling with his wife and being with his family and friends.

He is survived by one son, Linvill Blevins and his wife Thelma of Jefferson, N.C., and one grandson.

Virgil was predeceased by one daughter, Judy Blevins, two sisters, one half-sister, two brothers and one half-brother.

A graveside service was held on March 2 at the New London Presbyterian Church Cemetery in New London. To view his online tribute and to share a memory with his family, please visit www.kuzoandfoulkfh.com.

Arrangements are being handled by the Foulk Funeral Home in West Grove.

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For more information or to place an ad, contact Brenda Butt at 610-869-5553 ext. 10

SHIRLEY SCUDDER

Shirley Scudder, a resident of Oxford who formerly lived in Aldan, Pa., passed away peacefully on Feb. 27, 2023 while at home and surrounded by family. She was 84. Born in the District of Columbia, she was the daughter of the late Albert and Anna Lenora Travis Scudder.

Shirley was employed with Marsh McLennan in Philadelphia as a data entry clerk and retired after over 30 years of service.

She was a member of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Collingdale, Pa.

Shirley is survived by 20 nieces and nephews and many great and great-great nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by seven siblings. Services are private.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Brandywine River Valley Home Health & Hospice, 1285 Bell Tower Lane, Suite 1B, Oxford, Pa. 19363. Arrangements are being handled by the Edward L. Collins, Jr. Funeral Home, Inc. in Oxford. Online condolences may be made at www.elcollinsfuneralhome.com.

DR. WILLIAM J. HURLEY

Dr. William J. Hurley passed away on March 1, 2023 in West Chester, Pa. while surrounded by his family. Bill was the son of Thomas P. and Louise C. (nee Culhane) Hurley, and was born in Philadelphia on July 26, 1940.

He was raised in Drexel Hill, Pa. He was predeceased by his sister, Patricia L. Turner and his dearest wife of 47 years, Rosemary A. Gorman.

Bill is survived by his brother, Thomas. P. (Lois) of Kinnelon, N.J., and beloved children Dr. William J. (Mary) of Needham, Mass., Sharon A. Kirkby (Mark Evangelista) of West Chester, Pa., Sean T. (Colleen) of Romansville, Pa., and Megan M. Nadzam (Andrew) of Mentor, Ohio.

He is also survived by 12 talented and beautiful grandchildren and two great-grandchildren and his adoring and beloved partner, Barbara J. Zagnoni.

Bill graduated from Villanova University and then earned a Ph.D. in chemistry from Princeton University. He joined the DuPont Company in Wilmington, Del., relocating to several sites in the United States and Europe while advancing through management ranks. At DuPont, he was sometimes labeled a maverick because he would often find creative and unique ways to get things done. He retired early and formed Innovatech, LLC where he was CEO. Upon retirement, Bill joined the faculty of Villanova University as a business fellow where he taught MBA and senior students for 20 years.

Bill loved life with his family and enjoyed many activities including camping, skiing, boating, biking, hiking, and tennis. He was always active in the many communities where he lived. He loved to travel and visited many countries on six continents.

Visitation hours will be held at Kuzo Funeral Home in Kennett Square on March 13 from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. A Mass will be held 11 a.m. at St. Patrick Church, Kennett Square. Interment is private.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the American Cancer Society, 1818 Market St, Philadelphia, Pa. 19103.

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

STEPHEN MICHAEL LOMBARDI, JR.

Stephen Michael Lombardi Jr., a loving husband, son, and brother, passed suddenly on Feb. 23, 2023.

He was 33 years old and lived in Drexel Hill, Pa.

Stephen was born in Bryn Mawr, Pa. on March 30, 1989, to Stephen and Ruthie (Taggart) Lombardi.

He grew up in Oxford with his younger brother Nicholas and graduated from Oxford Area High School. Stephen married his wife Emily, who was his high school sweetheart and longtime partner of 19 years.

Stephen loved to play the guitar, travel, lift weights, ride motorcycles, and go to concerts. He was technically savvy with computer software of all kinds, one mainly being recording software. He produced and mixed all the music for his band, Half Past Seven, with his brother. The music was produced and aired on radio stations such as 93.7 WSTW, 93.3 WMMR, and was highly regarded by many fans. Stephen was a self-taught guitarist; his passion for music was inspired by his father, Stephen, Sr., and several musical influencers like Eddie Van Halen, Mark Tremonti, Paul Gilbert, and John Petrucci.

Stephen’s love for music also led him to meet his wife, Emily. During a middle school talent show, Stephen and his brother performed with their band and Emily performed in a dance group. They met that day and were inseparable ever since. Stephen and Emily created a life together at their home in Drexel Hill with their dogs, Gunner, Ziggy, and Clementine. They traveled the world together, going to multiple destinations like Spain, Germany, Central America, Bahamas, Colorado, and Hawaii to name a few.

Survivors include his wife, Emily, his mother, Ruthie, his brother, Nicholas (Kelly), mother-in-law, Robyn, and sisters-in-law, Molly and Sophy.

He is preceded in death by his father, Stephen Michael Lombardi, Sr. Services were held at Edward L. Collins Jr. Funeral Home, Inc. in Oxford.

If you would like to donate to the family, please use the GoFundMe link below.

https://www.gofundme.com/f/in-memory-of-stephenlombardi?member=25315289&sharetype=teams&u tm_campaign=p_na+share-sheet&utm_medium=copy_ link&utm_source=customer.

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

MARGARET MARY WIEGNER

Margaret “Marge” Mary Wiegner (nee McMaster), of West Grove, passed away on Feb. 25, 2023 after a short battle with cancer. She was 75.

Marge was born on Dec. 24, 1947 to Rita and James McMaster in Rockaway Beach Hospital, Rockaway, N.Y. and she spent her early childhood in Ozone Park, N.Y. Before marriage, Margaret lived in various locations before settling in Upper Darby, Pa.

Marge met Harry in April of 1967 through their love of roller skating. Harry used to joke that they met for the first time, twice, since she didn’t remember meeting him the first time. They dated for several years before marrying in 1969 at St. Alice Church.

In life, Marge was a devoted Catholic, and spent many years in various choirs, praying the Novena and saying the rosary every day. It was said that she had power of the beads, and people would call her to pray for various friends, family, and positive outcomes. “Rub the beads” or “light a candle” were common requests. Marge worked as a nurse and retired from nursing after years of devoted service in geriatric care. In her free time, Marge enjoyed her various shows, the beach, and keeping up with her kids and grandkids and their many activities. She was an avid reader.

Marge is preceded in death by her loving husband, Henry Matthew Wiegner, Jr., her parents, Rita and James McMaster, her in-laws, Regina and Henry Wiegner, brother-in-law, Don Wiegner and sister-inlaw, Judy Castiglione.

Marge is survived by her children, Harry (Carol), Ellen Allison (Rick), Arlene Zipp (Scott), and Shannon Johnston (Jason); her brothers, Thomas (Kerrie) and James (Anne) McMaster; a sister, Rita Gunn (Larry); sisters-in-law, Lois Powers (Rich), Arlene Rankin (Chalie), Patricia Loomis; a brother-in-law, Kenneth Wiegner (Lorraine); 13 grandchildren, Kathryn, John, Gavin, Rebecca, Ally, Shane, Matthew, Hailey, Samantha, Alexis, Keegan, Shae, and Henry; 23 nieces and nephews; countless grand nieces, nephews; and a great-granddaughter.

A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated on March 2 at Sacred Heart Church in Oxford.

Interment will be in Saints Peter and Paul Cemetery, Springfield, Pa.

In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory may be made to Brandywine River Valley Hospice, 125 Bell Tower Lane, Suite 1B, Oxford, Pa. 19363.

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

Obituaries

MICHAEL FERRARI

Michael Ferrari, of Kennett Square, passed away on Feb. 25, 2023 at Penn Presbyterian Hospital. He was 66. Michael was the husband of Karen Wasik Ferrari, with whom he shared 21 years of marriage.

Born 1956 in Huntington, N.Y., he was the son of Victor Ferrari and Eileen Cassidy Ferrari.

Following high school, Michael attended Stony Brook University of New York where he earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology. He continued his higher learning at Rutgers University, earning first his master’s degree in psychology and subsequently his Ph.D. in psychology. Michael’s academic accomplishments led him to become a licensed neuropsychologist.

From 1979 through 1991, Michael completed multiple clinical and research fellowships but was especially proud of his work as Clinical Fellow at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine in the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Science.

Michael began working at the University of Delaware in 1982 and was jointly appointed in two colleges. In 2007, Michael accepted the position of professor in the Department of Human Development and Family Studies. Throughout his academic and professional career, he was the recipient of numerous honors and awards including Professor of the Year (1985, College of Human Resources), Visiting Scientist in Psychiatry (1991-1993, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine), Faculty Appreciation Award (2022, Sigma Kappa Honor Society) and the Excellence in Teaching Award (2013, University of Delaware College of Education and Human Development).

In addition, Michael was a founder of First State School in the Wilmington Hospital, a school that provides children and adolescents who would otherwise be homebound with serious illnesses the chance to attend school with their peers while receiving the medical attention they need. He was a member of the Christiana Care Medical and Dental Staff and provided neuropsychological and rehabilitation services to inpatients and outpatients at several locations throughout the state. He was particularly proud of his work with the Delaware Department of Vocational Rehabilitation.

In his free time, Michael enjoyed gardening. He had a green thumb and took pride in the sauces and soups he would create with his homegrown vegetables. He was also a massive football fan and never failed to cheer on his beloved New York Giants. Michael was empathetic, caring and kind. He was the type of person to root for the underdog and cared deeply about helping his fellow man. As a teacher, Michael was happy to share his knowledge with anyone willing to learn. Michael will be truly missed by his family, friends, students, colleagues and all who had the pleasure to know him.

Michael was an active member of Good News Church in Hockessin, Del.

In addition to his wife, Karen, he is survived by his children, Matthew Ferrari (Heather), Lauren Munyan (Christopher), Andrew Ferrari (Callie), Kendall Irving (Carl) and Christian Hoechst (Brianna); four brothers, James Ferrari (April), Victor Ferrari (Barbara), John Ferrari (Karla) and Thomas Ferrari (Theresa); eight grandchildren, Christopher, Lily, Elijah, Josephine, Jason, Jacob, Nikko and Margot; as well as many nieces and nephews.

A funeral service was held on March 4 at Good News Church in Hockessin, Del.

Interment will follow at Unionville Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, Michael’s family kindly requests donations be made to CARE, Gift Center, P.O. Box 1870, Merrifield Va. 22116-8070 or to Alzheimer’s Association Delaware Valley Chapter, 399 Market St., Suite 250, Philadelphia, Pa. 19106. Arrangements are being handled by Kuzo Funeral Home of Kennett Square.

NANCY CRAWFORD

Nancy Crawford, of West Grove, passed away peacefully on March 4, 2023 at Ware Presbyterian Village while surrounded by her family. She was 91.

Born in 1931 in Paoli, Pa., she was the daughter of the late John McCloy Davis and the late Hazel Watson. She was the beloved wife of Robert F. Crawford, Sr., who preceded her in death in 2002, and with whom she shared 52 years of marriage.

Nancy was a longtime employee of the Avon Grove School District as part of the cafeteria staff. She was a devoted member of the West Grove Presbyterian Church, joining in 1943 and remaining active for 80 years. She served as a deacon, Sunday school teacher, and she sang in the choir. She was also a Cub Scout leader, a Girl Scout leader, an election poll worker, and a member of the Avon Grove Senior Citizens Organization, as well as a life member of the West Grove Fire Company.

She enjoyed traveling, reading, ceramics, watching the Phillies and spending time with her family, friends, and her beloved dog, Casey.

She is survived by a son, Robert F. Crawford, Jr. (Melissa) of Cochranville, Pa.; a daughter, Kelly C. Wasik (Glenn) of Brookeville, Md.; five grandchildren, Amanda Crawford, Robert F. Crawford, III, Hillary Grande (Brian), Andrew Wasik, and Adam Wasik; one great-grandchild, Emilia Grande, as well as many nieces and nephews.

Nancy was predeceased by the grandparents who raised her, John J. and Louise Delaney, and one brother, John McCloy Davis, Jr.

You are invited to visit with Nancy’s family and friends from 9:30 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. on March 11 at the West Grove Presbyterian Church, 139 West Evergreen Street in West Grove.

A funeral service will follow at 11 a.m. Burial will follow at New London Presbyterian Church Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, a contribution can be made to the West Grove Presbyterian Church, 139 West Evergreen Street, West Grove, Pa. 19390.

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

MARJORIE ERIN EBY

On the evening of Feb. 16, 2023, Marjorie Erin Eby died peacefully at the age of 35.

Erin was born to Richard and Beth Eby in 1987. She finished high school at The Center for Arts and Technology where she studied landscaping and horticulture. While in high school, Erin won a blue ribbon from Longwood Gardens for her marigolds and she also won a speech contest. Erin worked for several years at Handicrafters sheltered workshop where she assembled boxes, filled shoe shine kit orders, cleaned jewelry boxes, and did hot gluing.

Erin loved attending the NeuroRestorative STEPS program where she made several lifelong friends and had great therapists. Her favorite field trips were to farms and the SPCA, as she loved to be with animals.

Erin was best known for her welcoming smile and warm hugs. She loved her pets and watching TV with her family. Each morning she liked to sleep in so the family would hear her play her Mamma Mia disc to drown out the sounds of the day getting started. Erin also loved being an aunt to her niece and nephews. She was always happy to share her favorite books, movies, and toys with them. Erin knew all the words to most Disney movies by heart, had read all of the Harry Potter series. She also loved Star Wars and had a vivid imagination.

Erin is predeceased by her father, Rich.

She is survived by her mother, Beth, her sister Jenny (Ben) Cowan and their three children Abby, Josh, and Caleb, and her brother Michael Eby. Michael was also her best friend. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations in memory of Erin be made to the Muscular Dystrophy Association, 2132 S 12th St #101, Allentown, Pa. 18103. To view her online tribute and to share a memory with her family, please visit www.kuzoandfoulkfh.com.

KVIS & Coe Insurance presented with Valued Partner Glass Award

KVIS & Coe Insurance was presented with a Glass Award from Craig Rider at Lititz Mutual Insurance Company for our longstanding relationship since 1987.

Lititz Mutual Insurance Company is a local Insurance carrier located in Lititz that focuses on property and casualty insurance lines such as home insurance, renters insurance, welling fire policies, umbrellas and commercial business owners policies. KVIS & Coe Insurance recognizes that Lititz Mutual has a

competitive product in the Insurance Industry and it values its working relationships with its many insurance carriers, while looking for the best products and pricing for them.

Linda Staffieri, the personal lines manager in its Oxford office, was honored to receive the award on behalf of KVIS & Coe President John Vassalotti.

To learn more about our products we offer, reach out to one of our representatives at KVIS & Coe Insurance at 610932-9350 or browse our website at www.kviscoe. com.

1990

ESTATE NOTICE

ESTATE OF BARBARA LEE

FITZGERALD a/k/a BARBARA

L. FITZGERALD, DECEASED.

Late of Lower 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 ELBERT WAYNE FITZGERALD, EXECUTOR, 138 Township Rd., Oxford, PA 19363, Or to his Attorney: ANITA M. D’AMICO, D’AMICO LAW, P.C., 65 S. Third St., Oxford, PA 19363

3p-1-3t

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 Monday, March 20, 2023, at 7:00 p.m. at which time the Board will hear the following matter:

In Re: Application of Evan and Sheri Hosbach seeking variances from: (1) the 600 square foot maximum size of residential accessory structures under Ordinance Section 162-2002.A.2.d; (2) the 15 foot maximum building height for residential accessory structures under Ordinance Section 1622002.A.4; and (3) the 75 foot front yard setback requirement under Ordinance Sections 162503.D and 162-2006.A.2, all so

as to permit the construction of an accessory utility barn for equipment storage and repair on property located at 10 Hillendale Road, Chadds Ford, PA (UPI#64-3-116.3) 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 1934 3p-1-2t

INVITATION FOR BIDS

FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF PHASE 2 OF THE PENN TOWNSHIP SPORTS PARK, 355 NORTH JENNERSVILLE ROAD FOR PENN TOWNSHIP, 260 LEWIS ROAD, WEST GROVE, PENNSYLVANIA, PENN TOWNSHIP, CHESTER COUNTY, PA. FEBRUARY

27, 2023 PROPOSALS will be received online via the PennBID Program by the Board of Supervisors of Penn Township, Chester County, Pennsylvania until 1:00 P.M., Prevailing Time, on Wednesday, April 19, 2023, for the following: This phase of the project includes the construction of outdoor roller hockey rinks, outdoor multi-purpose courts, sand volleyball court, playground area, 8’ wide bituminous walking trail, 6’ wide flex-pave walking

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trail, gazebos, park furnishings, water service extensions, water fountains, portable restroom facilities, electric service extension, fine grading, turf restoration, park entrance from State Highway, permeable asphalt parking lot, 8’ wide mulch walking trail, and landscaping.

All Bids will be publicly read aloud by the Township at 6:00 P.M. Prevailing Time, on Wednesday, April 19, 2023, at the Penn Township Building, 260 Lewis Road, West Grove, PA 19390.

Copies of the Form of Proposal and Specifications are available at no cost at www.PennBID.net beginning Wednesday, March 8, 2023.

Each Bidder must deposit with his bid, security in the form of a certified check or bid bond in the amount of not less than ten percent (10%) of the total bid made payable to the order of the Penn Township. Each bid must be accompanied by a signed commitment of the proposed surety offering to execute a Performance Bond, as well as the Letter of Intent, and Non-Collusion Affidavit.

All Forms and Papers required to accompany the bid must be uploaded to PennBID prior to the date and time bids are to be received.

The successful Bidder will be required to furnish a Contractor’s Performance Bond and Labor and Materialmen’s Bond in an amount of the accepted bid. The Surety Company and form of surety shall be subject to the approval of Penn Township. The Bond Company should have no less than an “A” rating (Best Rating) and provide documentation of their authority to do business in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. In addition, the Bond should be provided without a reinsurer.

A Maintenance Bond in the amount of 10% of the Contract

Award Price will be required for this project for a period of 2-Years from the date of approval of the final payment by the Board of Supervisors.

No bidder may withdraw his/her bid within sixty (60) days after the date set for the receiving and opening of bids.

Pennsylvania prevailing wage rates will apply to this project, in addition to any and all other applicable federal, state, and local laws, statutes, ordinance, rules and regulations.

Penn Township reserves the right to accept any or all bids or parts thereof, or to reject any or all bids or parts thereof, for any cause whatsoever, as they deem for the best interest of the Township.

All Bidders are reminded that should Penn Township award a contract, the Successful Bidder will be required to pay all fees associated with PennBid. Notice is hereby given to all prospective Bidder that a PREBID MEETING will be held on Tuesday, March 28, 2023, at 9:00, prevailing time to discuss the project. The meeting will be held at Penn Township Building, 260 Lewis Road, West Grove, PA 19390 in the Finnen Community Room. Although the Pre-Bid meeting is not mandatory all bidders are encouraged to attend.

Funding assistance for the Penn Township Sports Park and the E. Kneale Dockstader Environmental Education Center has been provided by the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, Bureau of Recreation and Conservation, Community Conservation Partnership Program. Additional funding provided by The Chester County Commissioners Department of Park and Preservation Grant Program and the Southeastern Chester County Refuse Authority E.

Kneale Dockstader Foundation, Star Roses and Plants, By Order of the Penn Township Board of Supervisors, Karen Versuk, MBA, PhD, Director of Operations 3p-1-2t

ESTATE NOTICE

Estate of Thomas Howard Rhoads, Deceased , Late of Malvern, East Whiteland Township, Chester County, PA. LETTERS Of Administration on the above Estate have been granted to the undersigned, who request all persons having claims or demands against the estate of the decedent to make known the same and all persons indebted to the decedent to make payment without delay to Bonnie Rhoads, 3787 Clearwater Lane, Brookhaven, PA 19015, Administratrix, Or Attorney: Andrew P. Graul, Esquire, 911 Easton Road, P.O. Box 209, Willow Grove, PA 19090 3p-1-3t

PUBLIC NOTICE

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Oxford Borough Council will conduct a public hearing at a special meeting to be held on Wednesday, March 29, 2023, at 7:00 p.m., prevailing time, at Borough Hall, 1 Octoraro Alley, Oxford, Pennsylvania, to hear the following:

THE CONDITIONAL USE APPLICATION OF ENOX LAND, LP. The property is UPI No. 6-75, which totals approximately 63 acres, located at 451 West Locust Street. The subject parcel is owned by the Applicant and is located in the PD-1 Planned Development District of the Borough. The Applicant seeks conditional use approval pursuant to proposed §27-1333 (Age-Restricted Residential Community) and §27-2009 (Conditional Use Procedures and General Standards) of the Oxford Borough Zoning Ordinance to permit the proposed development of the subject parcel as 101 age-restricted residential dwellings and associated improvements, and any other such relief deemed necessary by Borough Council. If you wish to participate in this meeting and are a person with a disability requiring an auxiliary aide, service or other accommodation to participate, please contact the Borough secretary at (610) 932-2500 to discuss how your needs may best be accommodated. OXFORD BOROUGH COUNCIL, GAWTHROP GREENWOOD, P.C., Stacey L. Fuller, Solicitor 3p-8-2t

ESTATE NOTICE

Estate of Callie Jackson, Deceased. Late of Tredyffrin 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, John Lowell Jackson, Executor, 909 Maple Ave., Royersford, PA 19468 or to their attorney Henry J. Schireson, Esq., Bedford & Schireson, P.O. Box 1014, Bryn Mawr, PA 19010. 3p-8-3t

INCORPORATION

NOTICE

Jacobson Medical Writing, Inc. has been incorporated under the provisions of the Pennsylvania Business Corporation Law of 1988. Furey & Baldassari, P.C., 1043 South Park Ave., Audubon, PA 19403 3p-1-8-1t

Sheriff Sale of Real Estate By virtue of the within mentioned writs directed to Sheriff Fredda L. Maddox, the hereindescribed real estate will be sold at public on-line auction via Bid4Assets, by accessing URL www.bid4assets.com/ chestercopasheriffsales, on Thursday, March 16th, 2023 at 11AM. Notice is given to all parties in interest and claimants that the Sheriff will file with the Prothonotary and in the Sheriff’s Office, both located in the Chester County Justice Center, 201 W Market Street, West Chester, Pennsylvania, Schedules of Distribution on Monday, April 17, 2023. Distribution will be made in accordance with the Schedules unless exceptions are filed in the Sheriff’s Office within ten (10) days thereafter.

SALE NO. 23-3-90

Writ of Execution No. 2022-04095

DEBT $269,303.41

ALL THAT CERTAIN lot or piece of land designated as Lot 15 on the Plan of lots of The Oxford Land and Improvement recorded in the Office of the Recorder of Deeds, in and for Chester County, in Deed Book X-10 Volume 245, at page 269, situate in the Borough of Oxford, County of Chester and State of Pennsylvania, on the West side of Fifth Street, between South Street and Garfield Street, bounded and described as follow, to wit:

BOUNDED on the North by Lot 14 now owned by John S. Benson, on the East by the West line of Fifth Street, on the South by Lot 16 now owned by Norman M. Stewart and on the West by the East line of a 14 feet wide alley, having a front of 50.3 feet

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Chester County resident named Keep PA Beautiful Affiliate Volunteer of the Year

The Chester County Commissioners presented Beth Intoccia of Litter Lifters of West Vincent Township with a citation, recognizing her as a Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful Affiliate Volunteer of the Year.

Intoccia was nominated for the award by Keep Chester County Beautiful – Chester County’s affiliate of Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful – for her dedication and passion toward helping the environment.

“While everyone was hunkering down during the pandemic back in 2020, Beth started a litter removal group,” noted Rachael Griffith, Chester County’s sustainability director.

“When she sees a need in her community, she doesn’t wait around for someone else to take care of it – she does it herself.”

In their citation for Intoccia, the Commissioners noted the accomplishments that earned her the statewide award, including found-

on the West line of Fifth Street and extending back to the East line of the alley aforesaid and having a width of 50 feet on said alley, the south line beginning in eh West line of Fifth Street, 100.6 feet Northwardly from the intersection of the North line of Garfield Street and being 170.5 feet in length.

BEING THE SAME PREMISES which Robert M. Stewart, Jr., Executor of the Estate of Robert M. Stewart, Sr., deceased, by Deed dated October 31, 2016 and recorded November 17, 2016 in the Office of the Recorder of Deeds in and for the County of Chester, Pennsylvania in Book 9436, Page 1335, Document ID # 11510416 granted and conveyed unto Kevin James Bell in fee.

PARCEL # 6-9-134

PLAINTIFF: Lakeview Loan Servicing, LLC VS

DEFENDANT: Kevin James Bell

SALE ADDRESS: 322 South 5th Street, Oxford, PA 19363

PLAINTIFF ATTORNEY: LOGS

LEGAL GROUP LLP 610-2786800

N.B. Ten percent (10%) of the purchase money must be paid at the time of the on-line sale. Payment must be made via Bid4Assets. The balance must be paid within twenty-one (21)

ing Litter Lifters of West Vincent Township (which has, in just two years, removed more than 1,000 bags of litter from roadways and streams), and advocating for a Keep PA Beautiful affiliate in Chester County.

The Commissioners’ citation noted, “Without Beth’s drive, determination, and guidance, the Keep Chester County Beautiful affiliate would not exist today. Chester County is grateful for Beth’s love of nature and of making communities stronger, cleaner, and better places to live.”

At the meeting, Keep Chester County Beautiful Coordinator Carrie Conwell presented Intoccia with the Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful Affiliate Volunteer of the Year Award.

Recipients of the 2022 Volunteer of the Year Award were announced by Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful in January.

“We are grateful for our volunteers and partners

days from the date of sale via Bid4Assets. FREDDA L. MADDOX, SHERIFF

2p-22-3t

Sheriff Sale of Real Estate

By virtue of the within mentioned writs directed to Sheriff Fredda L. Maddox, the hereindescribed real estate will be sold at public on-line auction via Bid4Assets, by accessing URL www.bid4assets.com/ chestercopasheriffsales, on Thursday, March 16th, 2023 at 11AM. Notice is given to all parties in interest and claimants that the Sheriff will file with the Prothonotary and in the Sheriff’s Office, both located in the Chester County Justice Center, 201 W Market Street, West Chester, Pennsylvania, Schedules of Distribution on Monday, April 17, 2023. Distribution will be made in accordance with the Schedules unless exceptions are filed in the Sheriff’s Office within ten (10) days thereafter.

SALE NO. 23-3-92

Writ of Execution No. 2022-06084 DEBT $254,494.07

ALL THAT CERTAIN LOT OR PIECE OF GROUND, WITH THE BUILDINGS AND IMPROVEMENTS THEREON ERECTED, SITUATE IN THE TOWNSHIP OF NEW LONDON, COUNTY OF CHESTER, STATE OF PENNSYLVANIA, BEING KNOWN AS LOT NO.2

across the state whose dedication, commitment and exceptional contributions helped advance our mission and strengthen community improvement efforts statewide in 2022,” noted Shannon Reiter, presi-

dent of Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful. “Each one is deserving of recognition.”

This past November, Intoccia and the Litter Lifters were featured on 6ABC for removing 50 bags of litter, plus a tire, at their

Legals

ACCORDING TO A PLAN OF PROPERTY OF DAVID F. HOLT, MADE BY GEORGE E. REGESTER, JR. & SONS, INC., LAND SURVEYORS, DATED FEBRUARY 24, 1976 AND RECORDED IN THE RECORDER OF DEEDS OFFICE IN AND FOR CHESTER COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA IN PLAN BOOK NO. 288, AS FOLLOWS:

BEGINNING AT A POINT IN THE TITLE LINE IN THE BED OF MOUNT HOPE ROAD, SAID POINT BEING SOUTH11 DEGREES 14 MINUTES 34 SECONDS EAST, 175.00 FEET FROM A POINT AT THE INTERSECTION OF SAID MOUNT HOPE ROAD WITH OXFORD ROAD; THENCE FROM SAID BEGINNING POINT AND LEAVING THE BED OF MOUNT HOPE ROAD AND EXTENDING ALONG LOT NO. 1, NORTH 78 DEGREES 45 MINUTES 26 SECONDS EAST, 392.81 FEET TO A POINT IN LINE OF LANDS NOW OR LATE EDWARD P. CHESLOCK; THENCE ALONG THE SAME, SOUTH 09 DEGREES 59 MINUTES 00 SECONDS EAST, 150.03 FEET TO A POINT A CORNER OF LOT NO. 3; THENCE ALONG THE SAME, SOUTH 78 DEGREES 45 MINUTES 26 SECONDS WEST, 389.52 FEET TO A POINT IN THE TITLE LINE OF SAID MOUNT HOPE ROAD; THENCE ALONG THE SME, NORTH 11 DEGREES 14 MIN-

UTES 34 SECONDS WEST, 150.00 FEET TO THE POINT AND PLACE OF BEGINNING.

BEING THE SAME PREMISES which Derek Stine, by Deed dated 3/31/2016 and recorded in the Office of the Recorder of Deeds of Chester County on 4/4/2016 in Deed Book Volume 9286, Page 2398, granted and conveyed unto Jesus L. Juarez, Jr.

PARCEL # 71-01-0027.040

IMPROVEMENTS thereon: a residential property

PLAINTIFF: PENNYMAC LOAN SERVICES, LLC VS DEFENDANT: Jesus L. Juarez Jr.

SALE ADDRESS: 592 Mount Hope Road, Lincoln University, PA 19352

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

N.B. Ten percent (10%) of the purchase money must be paid at the time of the on-line sale. Payment must be made via Bid4Assets. The balance must be paid within twenty-one (21) days from the date of sale via Bid4Assets. FREDDA L. MADDOX, SHERIFF 2p-22-3t

volunteer clean up along the county’s Route 100.

Since their founding back in 2020, the group has been recognized both locally and statewide for their continuous clean-up efforts.

To learn more about how

to support the Litter Lifters or help at a future event, email litterliftersofwestvincent@gmail.com. And to find out more about Keep Chester County Beautiful, go to www.chescoplanning. org/Environmental/KCCB/.

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Courtesy photo

The Chester County Commissioners presented a citation to county resident Beth Intoccia, recognizing her achievement as a Keep PA Beautiful Affiliate Volunteer of the Year. Pictured left to right are Chester County Commissioner Michelle Kichline, Carrie Conwell and Rachael Griffith, from the Chester County Planning Commission, Beth Intoccia, and Chester County Commissioners Marian Moskowitz and Josh Maxwell.

Cecil College names new VP of community relations and college advancement

Cecil College announced that Brandon Brice has been named its vice president of community relations and college advancement.

“Cecil College has an extensive history of providing educational opportunities that enrich our community and larger region, and the residents of Cecil County know who we are and the value we provide. The beauty of a community college is that we can empower students to own their futures while staying close to home and to also become an asset within their county and neighborhoods,” said

Brice, who officially took the position on Jan. 2.

As vice president of community relations and college advancement, Brice is responsible for fundraising as well as donor, community, and government relations to acquire and maintain essential resources that support Cecil College’s mission.

Brice will be a member of Cecil College president Mary Way Bolt’s executive team, working collaboratively to support the college’s mission and long-term strategic goals.

Brice comes to Cecil College from the United

Way of Delaware, where he was director of philanthropy, economically supporting working families in Delaware. In this role, he created, led, and improved upon a comprehensive year-round fundraising campaign focused on a $2 million annual target.

“At Cecil College, my steadfast focus will be advocating for and procuring the resources that drive student success,” he said. “Through affordable, quality education, Cecil College plays a vital role in strengthening Cecil County and the region both eco-

nomically and socially, and I am very excited to expand opportunities for our community.

“Education is a win-win situation, and it’s an exciting time in Maryland’s history. With a new governor, our job as a Maryland community college is to create awareness and highlight all that we have to offer. We must showcase our programs and the importance of community colleges to the betterment of society through affordable tuition and increased access to higher education and workforce training.”

Before working with the

United Way of Delaware, Brice was the director of workforce exploration programs for the Boy Scouts of America in Detroit. He developed a strategic plan to raise $100,000 for the Exploring Workforce program, STEM and Scout Reach programs.

In his new role, Brice will also oversee the Cecil College Foundation as well as the college’s marketing department and the Milburn Stone Theatre.

Brice earned a degree in business administration from Howard University in Washington, D.C., and a Master of Science degree

NALT seeking volunteers at Brinton Run Preserve

Community members needed to help improve the public preserve in Delaware County

North American Land Trust (NALT) is seeking community volunteers to help plant trees, make improvements, and monitor wildlife at its Brinton Run Preserve, which NALT opened to the public in spring 2022.

The site of the 71-acre Brinton Run Preserve played an important role in the final engagement at the Battle of Brandywine. It is located at 6 Oakland Road in Delaware County, across the street from the historic Brinton 1704 House.

The conservation organization this spring is planning a community tree planting event at the public preserve. NALT is seeking volunteers to help plant approximately 225 native trees, which are being supplied by Octoraro Native Plant Nursery in Kirkwood, Lancaster County.

NALT last year received a $5,000 grant from Giant Company and Keep PA Beautiful to purchase the trees. The plantings will improve water quality by reducing runoff and

expanding the riparian buffer on the property.

In addition to the tree planting, NALT is seeking community volunteers to help its staff with regular maintenance at the public preserve, as well as invasive species removal. Volunteers also are needed to help build and monitor bird boxes at the preserve.

“There are a lot of projects at Brinton Run Preserve that are meaningful and fun for outdoor lovers,” said Steve Carter, NALT president. “This is a beautiful, historic

property, and we are committed to its protection and stewardship.” NALT in 2021 acquired the Brandywine Battlefield property, which is three miles from NALT’s Chadds Ford headquarters, and will protect the land from development through a conservation easement. The conservation group raised more than $4 million to acquire the property with support from historical organizations, environmental groups, and government agencies.

The American Battlefield Trust previously identified the historic battlefield site as one of the most important Brandywine Battlefield tracts in need of preservation. On September 11, 1777, American and British forces fought in a final battle that allowed General Washington and his Continental Army to retreat safely to fight another day.

In June 2022, NALT opened the preserve and its hiking trails to the public following months of preparation and renovations. NALT

in international affairs from Rutgers University in New Jersey.

staff recently seeded two fields, each about 12 acres, with honeybee and monarch butterfly seed mixes. These fields will become diverse pollinator meadows that will bloom through the year. The honeybee and monarch butterfly seed mixes were supplied by the Bee & Butterfly Habitat Fund’s “Seed a Legacy Program.” Those interested in volunteering at Brinton Run Preserve are asked to visit the NALT website or call the conservation organization at 610-388-3670.

Courtesy photo Brandon Brice

Chester County Commissioners appoint Messerschmidt III as new Department of Emergency Services director

Chester County Commissioners Marian Moskowitz, Josh Maxwell, and Michelle Kichline appointed Warren W. “Bill” Messerschmidt III as the county’s new director of the Department of Emergency Services (DES).

Messerschmidt takes the lead at DES following his most recent role as assistant director of Emergency Management Operations (EMO) in Montgomery County. Messerschmidt has

been a firefighter at Centre Square Fire Company in Blue Bell for 16 years, and has served as deputy chief of operations for the past seven.

Moskowitz said, “Bill has precisely the right experience and skillset that the DES director’s job demands, and we are fortunate to have him join us here in Chester County. His time in Montgomery County’s Department of Public Safety will prove valuable

as he leads our 9-1-1 Center, Emergency Management and Emergency Operations Divisions, and the Public Safety Training Campus.”

“Chester County needs a strong leader with a steady hand when emergencies happen and minutes and decisions count,” said Maxwell. “Bill’s years of experience as a leader –both in Montco’s EMO and as a volunteer firefighter – give him the ability to make those decisions expe-

ditiously. He has earned respect for his accomplishments, and in turn respects and appreciates the team he will be working with in the department, and the whole of the Chester County first responder community.”

Messerschmidt is a graduate of Drexel University, where he co-founded the Drexel Emergency Medical Services. He is pursuing his Master of Public Administration online with the University of New

Haven and will graduate in the coming months.

Kichline said, “Bill’s resume shows he is passionate about everything he does. Working full-time while pursuing a master’s degree is hard work – but add to that his work as a volunteer firefighter. DES is lucky to have someone so dedicated and driven.”

Rafferty elected chair of LCH Health and Community Services

Gawthrop Greenwood litigator John Rafferty has been elected chair of LCH Health and Community Services, an organization that offers bilingual healthcare to individuals of all backgrounds at three federally qualified health centers in southern Chester County communities.

“Given the recent closures of Brandywine and Jennersville hospitals, LCH has a unique ability to provide its medical, dental, social, legal and behavioral health services to new and more diverse populations than ever before, Rafferty said. “As the board chair in 2023, I look forward to supporting the growth and expertise of this phenomenal organization.”

“I’m excited to support the

professionals who provide best-in-class health services to an ever-expanding patient population. In addition to the immigrant population LCH was founded to serve, the organization’s providers now offer routine services to all individuals, regardless of financial status, across its campuses in Kennett Square, Oxford and West Grove.”

Under the leadership of Chief Executive Officer Ronan W. Gannon, LCH Health and Community Services recently received four Community Health Quality Recognition awards and was once again recognized as a Patient-Centered Medical Home in 2022.

In 2023, LCH will celebrate its 50th year of service to southern Chester County

and nearby communities.

“From the time we welcomed John to our board in 2018, continuing Gawthrop Greenwood’s legacy of service to our organization, we have been impressed by his dedication to ensuring a healthy community for all,” Gannon said. “Our nation and our local communities are at a turning point for inclusive health services, and John’s leadership will be a valuable contribution to those efforts here at LCH.”

As a partner in Gawthrop Greenwood’s Litigation Department, Rafferty represents individuals, businesses and nonprofits in civil litigation. He also provides experienced legal representation in Chester County Orphans’ Court for disputes

and litigation involving guardianships, powers of attorney, wills, estates and trusts. Rafferty was recently invited to join a committee that improved the local rules of civil procedure for Chester County Orphans’ Court, and, when the need arises, is tapped by the Orphans’ Court to represent individuals who may require guardians to assist in their future decisionmaking. While serving as a litigation partner, Rafferty regularly sits as an arbitrator for the Chester County Court of Common Pleas and is available to mediate cases through the Chester County Bar Association.

Rafferty began his career, following law school, in Ecuador on a Fulbright Fellowship during which

he trained judges and prosecutors about issues related to human trafficking and volunteered his time serving survivors of trafficking. Upon his return from

Ecuador, Rafferty represented immigrant victims of labor exploitation in Philadelphia, before serving as an Assistant District Attorney in Chester County.

Courtesy photo Warren W. “Bill” Messerschmidt III is the newly appointed Chester County director of Emergency Services.

Courtesy photo Gawthrop Greenwood litigator John Rafferty (left) is congratulated by LCH Health and Community Services CEO Ronan W. Gannon (right) after he was elected to chair the Board of Directors of LCH Health and Community Services.

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