Chester County Press 03-22-2023 Edition

Conditional-use hearing pushed to April 17

New Garden board hears testimony from company seeking to occupy vacant facility

By Richard L. Gaw Staff Writer

After a nearly two-hour testimony at its March 20 meeting, the New Garden Township Board of Supervisors voted to extend a conditional-use hearing with Purolite, LLC as part of an application by the company to open

a resin-based, purification and extraction manufacturing facility at the currently vacant building at 380 Starr Road in the township.

The board will hear further testimony from the company on April 17, beginning at 5:30 p.m. at the New Garden Township Building, prior to its regular meeting, when it is

expected that the board will render its decision.

In a hearing conducted by township Solicitor William Christman and Michael Gill, Esq. an attorney with the law firm of Buckley Brio in West Chester, the board heard from Michael Murphy, Purolite’s senior project manager, who said

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by Richard L. Gaw Michael Murphy, center, senior project manager for Purolite, LLC, testified before the New Garden Township Board of Supervisors on March 20 in a conditional-use hearing that seeks occupancy for the company to begin a manufacturing facility at 380 Starr Road in the township.

Tovar honored as outstanding citizen at Southern Chester County Chamber banquet

By Chris Barber Contributing Writer

Earlier this year, the Chamber announced that Tovar, 69, a realtor with Berkshire Hathaway in

Kennett Square, would be formally recognized at its 56th annual gala banquet in Longwood Gardens on March 18. In 1968, the chamber started naming an individual who has made outstanding contributions to Kennett Square and beyond as its “citizen of the year.”

Tovar has had an extraordinary journey on his way to receiving the honor. He immigrated to the United States from Mexico with his family as a young

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FROM OUR LENS

All aboard Kennett Square history

Township spent $50K to repair meeting room during eight-month remediation

By Richard L. Gaw Staff Writer

On the very day Ted Otteni began his new job as Kennett Township’s new Public Works Director on Oct. 3, 2022 – taking over for long time director Roger Lysle -- he inherited a mess.

No, not an administrative mess, but a functional one that forced the township to close its lower floor meeting room last August due to extensive moisture and a subsequent mold problem. During its closure, the board was forced to hold its meetings at the Red Clay Room in Kennett Square, the West Marlborough Township Building and at the New Garden Township Building.

At the township’s Board of Supervisors meeting on March 15, Otteni provided the board with a top-tobottom overview of what it took Otteni and several contractors to remediate and rehabilitate the room to prepare for its re-opening at a board meeting on March 1.

Over the five-month period of restoration, the township was forced to spend $50,658 on necessary work that included the installation of 80 feet of underdrain, sump pumps and a commercial-sized dehumidifier; waterproofing; the demolition of a stage, bathrooms, carpeting and drywall; the rehabilitation of studs

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Lawrence, Comitta announce significant state funding for infrastructure projects across southern Chester County

to come,” said Lawrence.

“For many years, our part of Chester County sent a lot of money to Harrisburg and saw very little in return. Working with elected officials at all levels of government, I’ve worked to right that historical wrong.

These state grant awards will help build and rebuild

local infrastructure both for today and for the next generation.”

“These investments support a broad scope of improvements in local communities throughout our region,” Comitta said.

“From improving local parks to upgrading our local wastewater infrastructure,

these projects aim to expand opportunities and enhance the quality of life for all residents and families.”

Oxford Area Sewer Authority will receive nearly $800,000 to upgrade wastewater infrastructure in Oxford Borough and East Nottingham Township. Funds will be utilized to

upgrade the authority’s receiving station and complete work at the Grant Street/Twin Ponds pump stations.

“Receipt of this grant funding is great news for the authority and its customers,” said David Busch, executive director of the Oxford

Courtesy photo

The Kennett Heritage Center will be presenting “Speaking of History,” a four-part speaker series that will present a diverse series of presentations by local experts. The series will begin on April 16 with a presentation by local historian Donald McKay about the intricate trolley system that once operated in Kennett Square. To learn more about the entire series, see the article on Page 5B.

Photo by Chris Barber

Guests at the Southern Chester County Chamber of Commerce’s annual dinner arrive at the banquet hall on Saturday.

Photo

New Garden...

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said that the company has purchased and is seeking to occupy the vacant, 107,000-square-foot building and its 12-acre property as a site for light industrial use in the making of Agarose resin beads, a material extracted from certain types of seaweed that is frequently used in molecular biology for separation of large molecules and protein purification.

Headquartered in King of Prussia, Purolite is a world leader in resin-based separation, purification and extraction technology, and produces more than 1,000 active commercial products that serve the environmental, business and healthcare industries. It employs over 1,000 staff around the world across 40 sales centers, five research and development centers and five manufacturing sites.

If the board grants conditional use approval, the site will provide high-skill jobs for over 100 employees, and operate on a seven-day, 24-hour basis. If the company is granted conditional use to occupy the building, it won’t be a simple turn-key transition. Murphy said that the interior will be completely upgraded and retro-fitted to accommodate Purolite’s manufacturing needs – a process that he said would take about two years to complete.

The exterior of the building would include a utility unit, a storage tank farm for raw materials, a stormwater management facility and an underground, water-based

fire containment suppression system. All structures, Murphy said, will be accompanied by state permits, and that the township will be informed in the case that Purolite violates the conditions of those permits.

Murphy said that from start to finish, the making of the Agarose resin beads takes about 70 days per batch, and that the distribution of the product will be limited to 50,000 liters a year, and an average weekly distribution equivalent to the capacity of four fourfoot-by four-foot skids.

The facility, which had been leased by W.L. Gore beginning in 2008 and employed a staff of 250, was vacated by the company after its lease expired in 2018. By a 3-1 vote at the board’s Jan. 22, 2019 meeting, the supervisors gave a conditional use approval for MatrixPA, LLC to establish a medical marijuana cultivation and manufacturing facility. Ultimately, the formation of the company never materialized.

Throughout the hearing, supervisors -- and selected residents who live near the proposed facility were granted special party status -- pressed Murphy to provide information about the safety of the product. Murphy said that the beads are not toxic or explosive, although some materials used in the making of the product are flammable, and that the making of Agarose resin beads does not emit foul odors into the atmosphere.

Murphy said that some raw materials used in the

making of Agarose resin beads are classified as toxic, and will be contained and safeguarded in the storage tank farm. If Purolite is granted conditional use approval, he said the company will share all of its data with local fire companies.

Consistent with the requirements set by Section 200-152.C of the township’s zoning ordinance, Murphy sent a latter dated Feb. 8 to all landowners who live within 500 feet from the property line of the facility. In the letter, Murphy stated the company’s case for establishing a presence in Landenberg.

“…Our proposed investment will fund an expansion of our healthcare and life science-focused manufacturing capabilities, helping our customers make pharmaceuticals better, safer and more effective,” Murphy wrote. “Additionally, the facility will ensure security of supply for our customers who manufacture life-saving drugs, while bringing more than 100 new skilled jobs over the next five years, and increase economic investment to New Garden Township.”

In addition to the continuation of the conditional use hearing on April 17, Murphy will also meet with the township’s Zoning Hearing Board on March 29.

KCSD receives conditional use approval for new elementary school

The Kennett Consolidated School District (KCSD)

receive d a conditional use approval from the New Garden board for the construction of a new elementary school at 265 New Garden Road. The approval follows a conditional use application the district filed with the township on Jan. 9, and a conditional use hearing that was held on Feb. 21.

As spelled out in prior presentations, KCSD plans to construct a new 105,240-square-foot school on the rear of the 25-acre property that will require the demolition of the current New Garden Elementary School. The property will also contain playfields, parking for 154 vehicles and include upgraded sewer and stormwater facilities.

Slated to be completed by August 2026, the new school will serve 660 students in kindergarten through the fifth grade.

As stated in the agreement with the township, the new school meets the general requirements for conditional use: it is in the public interest and its location will best serve the public health, safety and welfare; it is consistent with the goals of the

township’s 1993 comprehensive and open space and environmental resource plans; it is consistent with the intent of the township’s zoning ordinance as a permitted use and is appropriate for the subject property as it will replace an existing outdated facility; it is appropriate to the existing area and will not detract from the use of surrounding properties or the neighborhood; it contains sufficient land area to buffer adjacent uses and is designed to conserve building and property values and to protect public safety; and it contains sufficient safeguards for traffic safety and control.

During the public comment period of the hearing, Lisa Straughn, the owner of Hands for Heart Healing on New Garden Road, voiced her displeasure with the planned construction of the new school. She told the board that the playground for the new school is planned to be 57 feet from her property line and will be detrimental to her business, which is located in the back of her home.

“It is the ideal location for the healing work that

I do, where the environment surrounding my space and my home is held with peace and quiet,” Straughn told the board. “Where the children currently play on the playground in the distance has been nothing more than delightful white noise in the background, but a playground within the sight of my work space could only be described as an intolerable racket that would make the sessions I do in complete silence near impossible.”

Straughn that despite sharing her concerns with a KCSD representative, she was told that after spending a half million dollars to design the parameters of the new school, the district had no plans to change them.

“When I asked if it had occurred to him to see who the neighbors were prior to making those plans, I was told that it was not his responsibility, and he could do with the property whatever was within their legal rights to do,” she told the board.

Straughn urged the supervisors to protect its residents and its businesses who may be left vulnerable in the event of large-scale development in the future.

“If the current plans go forward as they are, I will be forced to either move my business out of my home, or renovate my house to create as sound proof a space as I am able,” she said. “It seems to me that [KCSD] should have to pay for one of those options since they could have avoided putting me in this position, but didn’t. “I am a healer, and while it is impossible for me not to be emotional about what’s happening to my business, I am not an unreasonable woman. I am asking for and would have expected common courtesy, neighbor to neighbor and business to business.”

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

Courtesy image

Purolite is a world leader in resin-based separation, purification and extraction technology, and produces more than 1,000 active commercial products that serve the environmental, business and healthcare industries.

Tovar honored...

Continued from Page 1A people from all ethnicities and cultures.

child. He worked his way through school and college and eventually moved to Chester County 17 years ago in connection with his work.

Tovar is widely known in the area for his passionate support of the local Latino population and his founding leadership in Kacie’s Cause, an advocacy group formed to fight drug addiction. When he arrived at the dais to receive his plaque on Saturday, Tovar faced his audience at the dressy event in Longwood Gardens’ banquet hall like a stern chaplain, addressing the topics that are important to him. He did not hold back. He urged the business leaders in the audience to grow and succeed at their companies by incorporating the abilities and contributions of

“If we do not encourage and tolerate vast races and suggestions, we are missing an opportunity,” he said. “I believe innovation has to be part of your strategic plan every day. I want my board to look like my customers.”

He also expressed thanks and satisfaction that in his term as head of the Kennett Square Borough Council’s Advisory Commission on Latino Affairs, he encouraged Latino families to get involved with and to pursue all the opportunities the borough has to offer.

He expressed gratefulness for the impact of the commission’s input into council decisions.

“Thanks to ACOLA we have more Latino voices on the council than ever before,” he said.

He moved on to the subject of drug addiction, which he said he sadly

faced in his own family.

“I didn’t choose it. It can happen to any one of you at any time,” he said.

As one of the founders of Kacie’s Cause, he said he is aware that the problem of drug use is becoming worse at the hands of ever-

increasing efforts by the drug cartels in a variety of foreign countries. He urged support for fundraising events that contribute to the fight against and to the understanding of drug abuse. He said that, among other things, Kacie’s Cause

has obtained and provided Naloxone, the drug that can be administered to prevent death from drug overdoses.

Also at the banquet, the out-going board chairman Doug Doerfler thanked the chamber members for the support they gave him dur-

ing his leadership term. Newly welcomed board chairman Tim Moore encouraged the members to take advantage of the benefits the group can offer and to extend those benefits to the employees in their companies.

Avondale Borough to receive restitution after Fla. man pleads guilty to theft by deception

Avondale Borough was a victim of theft by deception and bank fraud in 2021.

On Oct. 18, 2021 an individual called Borough Hall and spoke to a borough employee, asking that the bank password be changed, which was done. Over the next two days three wire transfers were successful totaling $29,380. The previous council contacted the police.

The current Avondale Borough Council pursued the matter and the Southern Chester County Regional Police investigated and identified one of the two culprits, outof-state resident Krystian Garcia. Working with the Chester County District Attorney’s Office and Florida law enforcement, the suspect was extradited from Florida and stood

trial on Monday, March 13 before Allison Bell Royer, Chester County Court of Common Pleas Judge.

Garcia pled guilty to computer trespass and theft by deception.

Avondale Borough Council President Paul Morgan delivered a strong victim impact statement on behalf of the council and all the residents of Avondale Borough.

The current council and employees have developed policies and procedures to protect the borough from falling victim to this sort of crime again.

In a negotiated plea agreement, Garcia was ordered to pay restitution for the amount linked to his part of the crime, which amounts to $19,580, to Avondale Borough. He is also making pay-

ments for court costs and the cost of extradition. He was sentenced to prison time served and will be under probation for five years. His probation time can be reduced by paying Avondale, in full, sooner.

Morgan said, “Avondale Borough Council is pleased that Garcia is being held accountable for the crimes that he committed and that most of

the stolen funds will be returned. We are grateful to the SCCRPD and the Chester County District Attorney’s Office for their time and efforts to make this right.”

This case serves as a reminder to everyone that no financial institution or government agency will ever call and request your password or ask you to change it.

Luis Tovar and his wife, Dorothy, settle in at the table for dinner after he addresses the guests.

Photos by Chris Barber

Luis Tovar urged the audience members to support cultural diversity and fight drug addiction.

Kennett Township...

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and drywall; the painting of drywall; the installation of new flooring in the meeting room and bathrooms; repairs to the room’s audiovisual components; and millwork.

Otteni said that the moisture issue in the room was caused by a blocked perimeter drain that likely led to the build-up of water under the slab and around foundation walls of the building. Subsequently, the water began leaking through the east wall in the building’s mechanical room, introducing moisture into the meeting room and accelerating the deterioration of metal components, such as studs, framing and supports.

New projects at Anson B. Nixon Park

In other township business, Liz Swain and Eric Gaver of the Kennett Parks and Recreation Authority (KAPA) gave a presentation that shared the history of KAPA’s long-term partnership with the township and the Kennett Borough in its continuing development of Anson B. Nixon Park, that began when the group as formed in 1987. Swain listed a number of projects KAPA has developed at the park over the past decade, most of which were spelled out in its 2013 strategic plan: the installation of a vehicular entrance and a pedestrian entrance; increased parking; repairs to the tennis courts and basketball courts; the installation

of two pickleball courts and two dog parks; the installation of lighting throughout the park; the repair of 4,400 linear feet of the Red Clay Creek and other tributaries; the refurbishing of athletic fields; and the expansion of the community garden, which was moved to a new location.

Swain and Gaver said that 2023 promises to be another busy year of projects and the start of new initiatives at Anson B. Nixon Park:

• KAPA is planning to install new ADA accessible playground to replace an older playground that was dismantled and removed, funded in part by grant award from the DCNR’s Other Parks programs;

• As part of its strategic plan, KAPA is working with an architectural firm to restore the historic Water Works buildings in the Park for use as a public plaza, water feature, open-air community space, offices for KAPA, and maintenance and storage; and

• The park will be the site of several events that include the Annual Brandywine Red Clay Red Clay Valley Clean Up on March 25 from 8 a.m. to noon; the Annual Trout Rodeo on April 29 beginning at 8 a.m.; a public celebration of the park’s 30th anniversary that is tentatively scheduled for June; a free summer concert series scheduled for Wednesday evenings from June 21 through August 9; and KAPA’s Rock the Park fundraiser that is tentatively scheduled for Aug. 26. In addition, the park will also be used as the site of the annual Kennett

Run on May 6; Kennett Library’s Juneteenth event; and the Kennett Township Police Department’s annual National Night Out event in August.

In other township business, the board agreed to renew the township’s agreement with the law form of Kilkenny Law, LLC for legal services during 2023, for a monthly fee of $8,500. Legal services that will be covered by the firm will include meetings, phone calls, drafting of ordinances and resolutions, emails, acquisition of open space and related work and general legal advice.

The township’s Historical Commission recommended the name Spar Hill Farm Preserve as the official name for the 103-acre property that the township purchased for $3.2 million in 2018 and establishing it as an historical and educational

Infrastructure...

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Area Sewer Authority.

“Once completed, these improvements will lead to operational cost savings and strengthen the sustainability of the authority system to meet the needs of the four municipalities that we serve.”

“The truth is, no one wants to think about underground wastewater pipes – it’s the kind of infrastructure that we all take for granted on a daily basis,” added Lawrence. “Regular maintenance and upgrades are key to

center that helps preserve the township’s heritage and character.

Otteni said that the demolition of several structures deemed unsafe on the prop-

ensuring long-term viability of water and wastewater systems, and grants like these provide critical funding to ensure municipal systems remain strong and sustainable.”

Penn Township will receive $500,000 to support continued development of the Penn Township Sports Park on Route 796 north of the Route 1 bypass. When complete, the sports park will provide badly needed youth soccer, lacrosse, football and baseball fields on over 40 acres of preserved land.

“We are honored by the Commonwealth Finance Authority’s award of

erty has been completed and is now open to the public. He said that a community work day is tentatively being planned at Spar Hill for April 22, and that a

$500,000 toward the development of Phase 2 of our sports park,” said Victor Mantegna, chair of the Penn Township Board of Supervisors. “These funds will be utilized for an inclusive playground, hockey and basketball courts, pickleball and bocce, providing unique recreational experiences for all. Fostered by our bipartisan team of Sen. Carolyn Comitta and Rep. John Lawrence, this grant reinforces the important work we are doing here in Penn Township to serve all of southern Chester County.” Oxford Borough will receive $150,000 for infra-

formal opening is being planned for May 13.

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

structure improvements along Mt. Vernon Street, including road and sidewalk improvements.

“This grant will help us achieve many important goals through one project, improving mobility, safety and accessibility, and adding much-needed green stormwater infrastructure in a very heavily trafficked area of the borough,” said Oxford Borough Council President Kathryn Cloyd. Grant awards were funded through several competitive programs administered by the Commonwealth Financing Authority.

Photo by Richard L. Gaw

Kennett Township recently completed work on the basement meeting room. The five-month rehabilitation was necessary because of excessive moisture and mold that forced the room to close last August. The room officially re-opened for the March 1 Board of Supervisors meeting.

Our state lawmakers, State Rep. John Lawrence and State Sen. Carolyn Comitta, announced that significant state funding is on the way to help southern Chester County municipalities and organizations complete some much-needed infrastructure projects.

Lawrence noted in the announcement that, for many years, southern Chester County did not receive its fair share of funding from Harrisburg.

“For many years,” Lawrence said, “our part of Chester County sent a lot of money to Harrisburg and saw very little in return. Working with elected officials at all levels of government, I’ve worked to right that historical wrong.”

Comitta and Lawrence announced that the Oxford Area Sewer Authority will receive nearly $800,000 to upgrade wastewater infrastructure in Oxford Borough and East Nottingham Township. Funds will be utilized to upgrade the authority’s receiving station and complete work at the Grant Street/Twin Ponds pump stations.

Penn Township will receive $500,000 to support continued development of the Penn Township Sports Park on Route 796 north of the Route 1 bypass. When complete, the sports park will provide much-needed youth soccer, lacrosse, football and baseball fields on over 40 acres of preserved land. The Avon Grove area has long needed more sports fields, and the park is going to be a welcome addition to the community. If Penn Township had to pay for the project on its own, the scope of the project would be much smaller.

Another $150,000 will go to Oxford Borough for infrastructure improvements along Mt. Vernon Street, including road and sidewalk improvements.

Additional funding will go to help London Grove Township complete the reconstruction and reopening of a Woodview Road bridge. The bridge has been closed for several years after being damaged in a storm.

These investments in infrastructure projects will be well worth it. Kudos to Lawrence and Comitta and the state lawmakers in Harrisburg who directed this funding toward southern Chester County.

Comitta talked about the wide scope of the work and how it will have a positive impact for southern Chester County residents.

“These investments support a broad scope of improvements in local communities throughout our region,” Comitta said. “From improving local parks to upgrading our local wastewater infrastructure, these projects aim to expand opportunities and enhance the quality of life for all residents and families.”

State lawmakers deliver for southern Chester County Way to go, Southern Chester County Regional Police Department

Kudos to the Southern Chester County Regional Police for the investigative work that they put in that led to the eventual arrest of a Florida man for his part in an effort to steal funds from Avondale Borough.

Krystian Garcia was extradited from Florida and stood trial here in Chester County on Monday, March 13. Garcia pled guilty to computer trespass and theft by deception. In a negotiated plea agreement, Garcia was ordered to pay restitution for the amount linked to his part of the crime, which amounts to $19,580, to Avondale Borough.

The Southern Chester County Regional Police Department worked with the Chester County District Attorney’s Office and police from Florida on the case. A big ‘thank you’ goes out to all the law enforcement agencies that helped the local municipality recover some of the approximately $29,000 that was stolen.

Chester County leads state in veteran benefit payouts

Chester County veterans received more federal benefit payouts, excluding survivor and pension benefits, than any other county in Pennsylvania, according to the Chester County Department of Veterans Affairs. Over $3 million was paid to veterans in January 2023, nearly $500,000 more than Berks County, which is ranked number two.

The mission of Veterans Affairs is to provide infor-

Over $3 million paid to veterans in January mation and guidance that makes it easier for veterans and their families to get the most out of the benefits that they are entitled to under county, state and federal laws.

Commenting on the payout achievement to veterans, Chester County Commissioners Marian Moskowitz, Josh Maxwell, and Michelle Kichline said in a statement, “Our staff in Veterans Affairs work

incredibly hard to maximize the benefit payouts that Chester County veterans and their families receive each month. We are proud that, through their diligence, Chester County tops the state in benefit payouts, because the service and sacrifice of our veterans have earned them this money.”

Susan Price, the director of Chester County Veterans Affairs, said, “No other county in Pennsylvania has

come close to the $3 million poured into the Chester County veterans’ community in January. This is good news for our veterans as well as the county’s economy.”

The Veterans Affairs Central Office in Washington, D.C. is the source of a monthly report that shows a breakdown by county of benefits payouts and the number of claimants.

Move More with the Chester County Health Department

The Chester County Health Department announced the introduction of Chesco On The Move – its renewed focus on movement as a benefit for both bodies and minds.

The need to increase movement among Chester County residents motivated the launch of Chesco On The Move to promote that movement is for all abilities, fitness levels, and ranges of mobility.

From yard work to kayaking to dancing, all types of movement support improving your health.

“All too often, when we think about movement, we automatically associate it with sweat-inducing workouts, or exercise that is planned, structured, and repetitive to improve or maintain physical fitness,” said Jeanne Franklin, director of the Chester County Health Department. “Movement, or physical activity, is any activity that uses your muscles and makes you feel good, relieves stress, and allows for a greater connection with your body and mind.”

According to a recent survey by the Chester County Health Department, of nearly 4,000 residents, 60 percent of respondents reported physical activity as one of the top three behaviors that improve health and wellness.

Despite its importance, only 24 percent of Pennsylvanians participate in physical activities or exercises other than their regular jobs.

The benefits of movement, information on where to move more in Chester County, and tips for moving more can be found at www.chesco.org/ chescoonthemove.

To support all county

residents in moving more, the Health Department is offering a digital affiliate program called “Chesco Moves with MoveSpring.” This free online movement platform allows registrants to track their physical movement. MoveSpring is compatible with most wearable fitness trackers and can be accessed through the MoveSpring app or a desktop browser. MoveSpring members can compete in challenges against others, set individual goals, and track their progress over time.

The Health Department invites everyone who lives or works in Chester County to register for MoveSpring and to use the unique organization code ChescoMoves. Participants will gain access to exclusive challenges and features in MoveSpring, including a chat function that allows them to meet and encourage other Chester County locals who are motivated to move more this year.

Chesco On The Move also supports Chester County’s recently launched Fresh Air, SelfCare Chesco initiative and has been added as a resource to the Fresh Air, Self-Care web page.

“We hope Chesco On The Move will enable residents to incorporate moving more into their daily life,” added Franklin.

“Chesco Moves with MoveSpring is an opportunity for residents to

approach moving more in a fun, engaging, and inclusive way. Individuals can build community among fellow MoveSpring members who want to make physical activity more of a priority this year.”

State funding directed to bridge project on Woodview Road

State Rep. John Lawrence announced that grant funding from the state will be utilized for the reconstruction and reopening of the Woodview Road bridge that has been closed for several years.

The funding was awarded to London Grove Township.

“The London Grove

Township Board of Supervisors is excited to receive this grant,” said London Grove Township Manager Ken Battin. “The Woodview Road bridge is an important part of the community. Once all of the federal and state requirements are met, we are excited to move forward

with construction.”

The bridge has been closed for several years after a fallen tree caused significant damage. The project currently awaits federal review which must be completed prior to construction.

The grant award was funded through the Pennsylvania Local Share Account pro-

gram administered by the Commonwealth Financing Authority.

“I’ve heard from many residents who are eager to see the Woodview Road bridge reopened,” said Lawrence. “I’m grateful to work with the London Grove supervisors to deliver this state grant funding.”

In the Spotlight

Newest work currently being showcased at two galleries

Katee Boyle: Telling stories from a personal place

By Richard L. Gaw Staff Writer

The sun of the early spring shone through the window of Katee Boyle’s Scarlett Forge Studio, and onto the multi-colored textures of the sculptural objects that were gathered on a work table – most of which will find their way to a permanent place in the firmament of her art.

For the last seven years of Boyle’s career as a Chester County-based multidisciplinary artist, Scarlett Forge has served as the receptacle of everything she has thrown at it: oil paintings, illustrations, abstract sculpture, video, sound and installation. Defined but not categorized, hers has been a creative life where everything is scraped up and becomes art — the metallic refuse, the recreation of a pair of old boots from the bottom of a pile at the antique store and the scattered, viscerally raw emotions of what it is to be human.

“Ultimately, I want to teach people to learn to look, to take the time to dig deeper and experience a reaction from my work, because indifference isn’t an option for me,” Boyle said at her studio. “When I see a reaction that someone has to my work, that’s success to me, but if someone just casually walks past my work and onto the next piece in the gallery, I feel that something isn’t right, that something is amiss.”

For the next several weeks, area audiences will get to render their reactions to Boyle’s latest work. She is one of nine artists whose abstract sculptures are featured in “Imagined,” now at the Oxford Arts Alliance through March 31.

Curated by local artist Jill Beech, the exhibit is both diverse in the artists’ use of technique and choice of materials, but connected through each artist’s expression of individual memories and experiences.

Boyle is also one of three artists featured in “A Terrible Beauty,” which runs through April 21 at The Art Trust Gallery at Meridian Bank in West Chester. Sharing the exhibit space with artists Diane Cirafesi and Mia Fabrizio, Boyle’s

15 works – that include sculptures and her painting “Treasure Island, Redux” – explore both memory and emotion. The exhibit’s title and the work contained in it is inspired by the figurative painter Francis Bacon, who was known for his raw and unsettling imagery.

While many of Boyle’s pieces in the show are new, a few were selected on a tour of her studio that she conducted with Cirafesi and Fabrizio, one that unveiled older works of hers, such as “The Harvest Dress” and “Chastity, All of Me.”

“I normally do not exhibit my work more than once, but I felt that each piece draws on the various themes of the exhibit,” Boyle said. “When I share work in an exhibit, there is a hidden thread that connects everything together, and the narrative I am telling has to be set up a certain way in order to best tell that story.”

Writing on the canvas

If there is one medium that figuratively – and literally – hides from Boyle’s work as an artist, it is in her writing, either contained within a notebook or in the case of her painting, directly on the canvas before the painting begins.

“My paintings do not begin from the standpoint of, ‘Here’s the exhibit’s title and here’s the painting idea I have so now it’s time to get to work,’” she said. “I do the writing on the canvas and start to lay down the painting, based on the narrative of the writing and the story I wish to expand on. It could just begin as a thought, and then all of a sudden it is three hours later and I will back up and there will be something on the canvas.

“It allows me to come back and either continue pursuing that thought or come back and scribble it out and begin again.”

The cursive script that appears at the beginning of Boyle’s canvases has a galloping feel to it, as if it is chasing down the wandering muse of the artist, which on any given day may focus on a painting nearing completion, or tend to a sculpture that at the moment is

merely a collection of ideas and artifacts. Her work in Oxford and West Chester – and throughout her journey as an artist -- is reflective of a narrative rooted in the gravitational pull of storytelling that eventually finds its chosen medium.

“My work leads me,” Boyle said. “If I come to the studio intending to paint and I find myself being pulled off to focus on another medium, then I have to follow that. Otherwise, I would just paint all day and waste the next six hours, rather than follow that piece of metal and see where it will take me.”

‘A Thief’s Daughter’

When Boyle was growing up in Chadds Ford, she befriended a neighbor, Margaret Hoffman, 70 years her senior, and found that Hoffman owned a painting that the artist N.C. Wyeth had given her entitled “A Thief’s Daughter,” (later donated to the Brandywine River Museum of Art) which depicts a young woman preparing opium before three seedy-looking men and her father.

“N.C. Wyeth is the reason I became an artist, and if I could drill it down to one influence, it would be this painting that I would get to know intimately over the 18 years I lived alongside Mrs. Hoffman,” Boyle said. “I understood that this was a story that N.C. Wyeth was telling, and that his illustrations were all a frozen moment in time. I used to imagine what the lives of these five subjects were like and what it would be like to expand on their stories. In recent years, I dug back and started this in my work beginning with the daughter by placing her in various situations.”

On the support of a substantial back catalog of exhibits, private and public sales and an everexpanding repertoire of mediums, Boyle has become one of the most influential artists in the Chester County region. Her eventual goal – and what she calls “her ultimate measure of success” -- is to display her art in museums, whether as an individual installation or as a collected body of work, told as a story

- Artist Francis Bacon (1909-1992)

she is continuing to tell.

Meanwhile, the objects on her work table at Scarlett Forge reflect the light from outside, looking to be of service.

“I am trying to push my narrative or expand it further so that I can learn more, not just about myself, but the entire strategy of people, community and the environment we live in,” Boyle said. “I am a storyteller and with each piece, I set out to write a full novel. I am writing stories from a personal place, and I am setting out to do

something that I have no other choice but to do…to create.”

“Imagined” will be open to the public through March 31 at the Oxford Art Alliance, 38 S. Third Street in Oxford. To learn more, visit www.oxfordart.org.

“A Terrible Beauty” will be on view through April 21 at The Art Trust, 16 West Market Street in West Chester. To learn more, visit www.thearttrust.org.

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

Courtesy image

“Fly Girl,” now at The Art Trust’s “A Terrible Beauty” gallery exhibit in West Chester through April 21.

Recent works by the multi-media artist Katee Boyle are currently on display at The Oxford Arts Alliance in Oxford and The Art Trust in West Chester.

Photo by Richard L. Gaw

“The job of the artist is always to deepen the mystery.”

Photo by Richard L. Gaw

The work table at Boyle’s studio at Scarlett Forge is filled with items that will likely find their way to future installations.

Courtesy image “ Treasure Island, Redux” is included as part of her 15-piece A Terrible Beauty,” on display at The Art Trust in West Chester through April 21.

GEORGE T. HOLLAND, JR.

George T. Holland, Jr. passed away on March 13, 2023 while at his home in Nottingham. He was 90.

He was the husband of the late Alma Louise Atwood Holland, with whom he shared 54 years of marriage.

Born in Nottingham, he was the son of the late George T., Sr. and Bertha Freese Holland.

He was a member of the Nottingham Missionary Baptist Church.

George farmed in West Nottingham Township and Fulton Township and he was also employed with Oxford Agway on the spraying truck.

He loved his family and enjoyed his yard and his garden.

He is survived by two sons, Jerry Holland (and his wife, Stacy) of Nottingham and Daniel Holland (and his wife, Jamie) of Colora, Md. and four daughters, Margaret Holland of West Chester, Brenda Zimmerman (and her husband, Ivan) of Nottingham, Connie Grinestaff (and her husband, Dan) of Nottingham and Vicky Hazelwood (and her husband, Larry) of Oxford.

He is also survived by seven grandchildren, 14 greatgrandchildren, and one sister, Mary Smith of Quarryville.

Funeral services were held on March 18 at the Nottingham Missionary Baptist Church in Nottingham. Interment will be in the adjoining church cemetery.

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

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

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THOMAS D. JONES

Thomas D. Jones, who was affectionately known as “Pudge,” passed away on Feb. 18, 2023. He was 51.

Born in 1971 in West Chester, Tommy was the son of Brenda J. Jones and the late Thomas Darlington Rainey, Sr.

Tommy graduated from East High School in West Chester and began a career as a truck driver. He enjoyed his years of truck driving and loved being out on the open road.

In his free time, he enjoyed traveling and fishing.

Tommy had a warm soul and was adored by everyone he met. It didn’t matter if he was gone from the area for years at a time – when Tommy was back in his hometown, everyone knew him and it was as if he never left. All who had the pleasure to know Tommy will miss the warmth and kindness he brought to the world.

Tommy is survived by his mother, Brenda J. Jones; his brother, Jeffrey A. Christie; two sisters, Tracy L. Jones and Jill V. Jones; along with a host of other relatives and friends.

Services were held on March 11 at Kuzo Funeral Home in Kennett Square.

Interment will be private.

Arrangements are being handled by Kuzo Funeral Home of Kennett Square.

EVA M. LESSIG

Eva M. Lessig, 84, of Kennett Square, passed away peacefully on March 12, 2023, at Accent Care Hospice at Christiana Hospital in Newark, Del.

Born January 25, 1939 in Wilmington, Del., she was the daughter of the late James B. and Dorothy (Brown) Wilson. Eva graduated from Wilmington High School and The Memorial Hospital School of Nursing before becoming a registered nurse. She married Raymond H. Lessig in 1965 and they were married for 36 years until his death in 2002.

Family, friends and faith were all important parts of Eva’s life. She was a supportive wife and mother to her two children and participated in their activities. She remained brave when managing the health issues of family members and maintained her cheerfulness when dealing with many years of her own health issues. She liked spending time with friends and making people smile. She was a longtime member of Dilworthtown Presbyterian Church and Grace Fellowship Church and enjoyed organized Bible study.

She is survived by her son, Steven R. Lessig, his wife Wendy and her two grandchildren, Sarah and Allison of Ambler, Pa., as well as many brothers-in-law and sistersin-law, and nephews and nieces in both Delaware and Nebraska.

In addition to her husband and parents, she was predeceased by her son, Michael Lessig, her brother, Robert Wilson, and her niece, Ashle Wilson Bailey.

The family would like to thank the staff of Brandywine Living at Longwood for the love, friendship, and helpfulness that they provided to Eva during her years of living there.

In memory of Eva, a contribution may be made to the Muscular Dystrophy Association 161 N. Clark, Suite 3550, Chicago, Ill. 60601.

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

VELMA F. BAILEY

Velma F. (Evans) Bailey was born on Jan. 25, 1931 and went home to be with the Lord on March 13, 2023.

She was a 92-year-old resident of West Grove.

Velma left a legacy of generous love for her family and faith in Jesus Christ.

A 72-year resident of West Grove, Velma served her family and community in doing small, good things. She was in the first graduating class of the new Avon Grove High School (now the Charter School), matriculating from New London Academy, where three signers of the Declaration of Independence attended school some 200 years prior.

She was a baker, serving Avon Grove school students with a smile for 25 years as a “cafeteria lady.” She helped with Girl Scouts and her basement was filled with cases of cookies the year she was Cookie Chairman.

Church and family were the center of her life. An active member of Avondale Presbyterian Church for nearly six decades, she saw to it that her children attended church and Sunday School each week, and as they got older, they took part in youth groups. She served as a church trustee and sang in the choir, and in her later years she traveled with the pastor to serve communion to shut-ins.

“Family was all that mattered” was one of her mantras. Summers included an annual family beach vacation, family reunions, and picnics. Christmas and Thanksgiving were festive family meals with her beloved brother John Evans and family. Many summers included a vegetable garden and the kids picking green beans and helping with canning. Mom and kids spent many happy afternoons playing Rook and pinochle in the hot summer days. Later in life she enjoyed watching the Phillies games and talking sports with the family.

She and her beloved late husband Harold were married for 62 years and began their family in West Grove with their first daughter born in the old West Grove hospital.

Left to cherish her memory are daughters, Judith Napieralski and Ginger Kielarowski (Ray); a son, Bruce Bailey (Julia), and five grandchildren, Bailey, Meredith (Ryan Little), DJ, Caroline, and Wyatt.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Myrl (Bowers) and William Evans, a brother, John Evans, and grandchildren, Mason and Rachel Bailey.

Donations in her memory can be made to Avondale Presbyterian Church, 420 Pennsylvania Ave, Avondale, Pa. 19311.

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

Obituaries

PHILIP J. RAYMOND, JR.

Philip J. Raymond, Jr. passed away suddenly at the University of Pennsylvania Hospital from complications of a stroke.

Phil went to be with the Lord peacefully on Feb. 23, 2023, at 76 years of age. He was surrounded by his family.

Phil was full of life and love, was a selfless friend, and deeply committed to his family. He was a devoted husband of Janet, and loving father of son Chris (Denna), and daughter, Jennifer Devine (Ned), and his grandchildren, Maddie Raymond, and Evelyn, Lily, and Josie Devine.

He is also survived by his brother, Bruce (Mary) and their daughter Shelley Reinemann (Keith) and their daughter June and many cousins.

Phil is preceded in death by his father, Philip J. Raymond, Sr., and his mother, Germaine Gariepy Raymond.

Phil was born in Springfield, Mass., and received a liberal arts degree from Providence College and then served the country in Vietnam as an Army Lieutenant in the 597th Transportation Company, earning a Bronze Star.

After returning from the war, Phil continued his education by earning his MBA at Western New England College while supporting his family and continuing to serve in the Army Reserves, retiring honorably at the rank of Captain. His long professional career in the insurance and finance industry was filled with achievements, goals attained, and peers uplifted.

He was recognized as an “Industry Legend,” leader and mentor by many colleagues and friends.

Phil proudly served in a multitude of professional, charitable and familial capacities throughout his life, including Rotary Club, Jaycees, soccer and basketball coach, Boy Scout leader, and many others. He pursued all his hobbies with great vigor and detail. His positive attitude, perseverance, engaging sense of humor, intelligence, eagerness to serve others, and desire to succeed in all aspects of his life served him well through all his 76 years. Phil was a pillar of strength in many lives. He will be greatly missed.

The family will hold a small private service in North Carolina. Phil desired to be cremated and wanted to be where the beaches are soft, the mountains are strong, and the golf season is long.

Memorial donations may be made to the charities https:// www.garysinisefoundation.org or https://smga.org.

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

KAYDEN ANTHONY HOANG

Kayden Anthony Hoang, 17, of Oxford, passed away on March 13, 2023 at home.

Born in West Chester, he was the son of Michael Tuan and Tina Smith Hoang of Oxford.

Kayden was in the senior class of the Oxford Area High School.

He worked at McDonald’s in Oxford and was awarded employee of the month before his illness. Kayden was a hard worker and was saving his money for college.

He enjoyed Airsoft, video games, and spending time with many of his friends, including his best friend, Ian Torrens.

He is survived by his parents; seven siblings, Charisa Power (Kyle) of Phoenixville, Cherrise Wilson (Richard) of Nottingham, Kolbie Hoang (Ashley) of Oxford, Kyle Hoang and his fiancé Paola Navedo of Melbourne, Fla., Kameron Hoang of Carlisle, Cailee Hoang of Oxford, and Derek Riley (Lindsay) of Smyrna, Del.; paternal grandmother, Kim Hoang of Renton, Wash.; maternal grandparents, Lee and Jim Riggs of Graham, Wash.; six nieces and nephews; and girlfriend Yuly Lopez.

He was preceded in death by his paternal grandfather, Nguyen Thai Hoang.

A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. on Saturday, March 25, 2023 at the Edward L. Collins, Jr. Funeral Home, Inc., 86 Pine St., in Oxford, where friends and family may visit from noon to 2 p.m. Interment will be private.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Kayden’s name to Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation.

If you wish to contribute towards funeral expenses, donations can be made at Kayden’s GoFundMe https://gofund.me/bd3a86f4.

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

Obituary submissions

with a connection to southern Chester County are charged a modest fee. Obituaries appear on the Wednesday after they are received with a

Monday 5 p.m. deadline. They are also posted on www.chestercounty.com. Photos should be sent as .jpeg attachments to the obituary text. To sub-

mit an obituary to the Chester County Press or for a rate quote, email the information to editor@chestercounty.com.

Avon Grove students are recognized for their academic achievements

On March 2, the Avon Grove School District held a recognition ceremony for 11 Avon Grove High School (AGHS) students for their achievements in the National Merit Scholarship Program.

Each year, The National Merit Scholarship Program selects approximately 50,000 high school students, who have proven themselves through academic achievement, to be honored. At AGHS, Mischa Behari, Brooke Benjamin, Mikaela Cavanagh,

Nicholas D’Onofrio, Brianna Huller, Tanvi Joshi, Sophia Pham, Tanvi Tallapally and Patrick Zhang were commended students, Bradley Gerwig advanced to the semifinals, and Rachel Enache was named a finalist.

During the recognition ceremony, AGHS counselors Mrs. Markowitz, Ms. Mineo, Mr. Searfoss, Mr. Hoffman and Mrs. Lubens spoke about the commended students. Searfoss spoke about Enache, who received the highest

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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

ESTATE NOTICE

Estate of Kevin P. Pochopien, Late of Elk 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 Benjamin Pochopien, Administrator, 3649 Tom Brown Road Franklinville, NC 27248. 3p-15-3t

ESTATE NOTICE

ESTATE OF Joseph M. Reavy

a/k/a Martin Joseph Reavy, DECEASED. Late of Malvern, Tredyffrin Township, Chester County, PA

LETTERS TESTAMENTARY on the above Estate have been granted to the undersigned, who request all persons having claims or demands against the estate of the decedent to make known the same and all persons indebted to the decedent to make payment without delay to Maire D. Reavy EXECUTRIX, Or Attorney: Andrew P. Grau, Esquire, 911 Easton Road, P.O. Box 209, Willow Grove, PA 19090

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ESTATE NOTICE

ESTATE OF LYDIA J. BOWERS, DECEASED. Late of Oxford Borough, 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

honors.

“Rachel is intelligent, athletic, curious, creative, hard-working, positive, caring and kind,” said Searfoss. “She is a phenomenal student. Rachel is one of the most exceptional students I’ve had the pleasure of getting to know.” Enache plans to study engineering in college.

Based on student performance on the Preliminary SAT and the National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test, nearly 16,000 students are named semifinalists.

Of these only 7,250 proceed to become finalists. In late September, honored students receive a letter recognizing their academic abilities if their scores exceed a given threshold, which varies by year.

National Merit scholarships come in many forms. Finalists compete for $2,500 scholarships and may also receive corporate or college sponsored awards. To learn more about the National Merit Scholarships, visit nationalmerit.org.

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make payment without delay to TIFFINI BOWERS, ADMINISTRATRIX, P.O. Box 2389, Providence, RI 02906, Or to her Attorney: ANITA M. D’AMICO, D’AMICO LAW, P.C., 65 S. Third St., Oxford, PA 19363 3p-22-3t

ESTATE NOTICE

ESTATE OF LOUIS V. CORTESE, DECEASED. Late of New London 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 SHIRLEY L. CORTESE, EXECUTRIX, c/o Joseph A. Bellinghieri, Esq., 17 W. Miner St., West Chester, PA 19382, Or to her Attorney: JOSEPH A. BELLINGHIERI, MacELREE HARVEY, LTD., 17 W. Miner St., West Chester, PA 19382 3p-22-3t

ESTATE NOTICE

ESTATE OF CYNTHIA W.

ENGLE, DECEASED. Late of Oxford Borough, 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 RONALD CHARLES ENGLE, EXECUTOR, c/o Nancy W. Pine, Esq., 104 S. Church St., West Chester, PA 19382, Or to his Attorney: NANCY W. PINE, PINE & PINE, LLP, 104 S. Church St., West Chester, PA 19382 3p-22-3t

ESTATE NOTICE

Estate of Stanley Mandler, Deceased. Late of West Chester, 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 Jeffrey Mandler, Executor, c/o Louis J. Petriello, Esq., Petriello & Royal, LLC, 526

Courtesy photo

On March 2, the Avon Grove School District held a recognition ceremony for 11 Avon Grove High School students for their achievements in the National Merit Scholarship Program. Pictured are Mischa Behari, Brooke Benjamin, Mikaela Cavanagh, Nicholas D’Onofrio, Brianna Huller, Tanvi Joshi, Sophia Pham, Tanvi Thallapally, Patrick Zhang, Bradley Gerwig and Rachel Enache.

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Kennett Heritage Center to kick off speaker series on April 16

By Richard L. Gaw Staff Writer

Since it first opened its doors in the heart of Kennett Square Borough in 2020, the Kennett Heritage Center has served as a touchstone for the unique history of the area that it celebrates – through tours, special events and a permanent exhibit at its location at 120 North Union Street.

From April through November, the Center will again acknowledge the rich past of the Kennett area with a four-part series called “Speaking of History,” that will provide

those who attend a tapestry of topics.

On April 16, local historian Donald McKay will kick off the series with a presentation that will provide an overview of the intricate trolley system that once traversed through Kennett Square, which served as the junction of two electric trolley routes.

As technology advanced in the 1800s, public transportation out into the rural areas started to expand beyond the steam railroads, and the trolleys provided Kennett Square residents with greater accessibility to nearby towns and cities

and parks.

On June 11, walking artist historian Ken Johnston will present “A Pilgrimage to Freedom: Tracing the Footsteps of Harriet Tubman from Maryland to Canada,” that will retrace the steps Johnston took in learning more about Harriet Tubman along the Underground Railroad en route to freedom.

On Sept. 10 – in acknowledgement of the Battle of the Brandywine that took place on Sept. 11, 1777Wade Catts will present “The Day Before Battle of Brandywine in Kennett,” that will provide an over-

view of how the British Army occupied Kennett Square during that historic battle.

The speaker series will close on Nov. 12 with a presentation by representatives from Old Stone Cidery in Lewisville, Pa., who will talk about the making of apple cider, managing an apple orchard and how they have helped to revive the craft that was once a staple of rural life in Chester County.

“We wanted to add a program that brought something new to our offerings, different from reading the story boards of the per-

Golter named the Avon Grove Lions Club Student of the

Nicholas Golter has been named the Avon Grove Lions Club Student of the Month for March. He is the son of Brian and Liza Golter of Avondale.

Nicholas’s school activities include playing on the

Avon Grove soccer team and participating in Avon Grove track and field. He has also been a part of his community by participating in an Avon Grove Soccer BBQ fundraiser and spend-

Month

ing his 11th grade summer coaching Christian athletes.

Nicholas has achieved Distinguished Honors throughout high school. He plans to join the Military Air National Guard, participate

manent exhibit or walking the streets of Kennett with a history tour,” said Lynn Sinclair, the founder and chairperson of the Kennett Heritage Center. “A lecture series fit the bill. It’s an opportunity for people to sit and listen to a speaker share their knowledge of and enthusiasm for a specific local, historic topic.

“This lecture series also extends our outreach to the organizations each of the speakers represents. We are excited about these new partnerships and what they will bring to the Kennett community.”

All lectures in the

“Speaking of History” series will be held at Kennett Friends Meetinghouse, 125 W. Sickle Street, Kennett Square, Pa., and begin at 3 p.m. They will be followed by a Q & A session and light refreshments will be served.

For additional information about the speaker series, contact Lynn Sinclair at 302-5590923. To learn more about the Kennett Heritage Center, visit www.kennettheritagecenter.org.

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

in a Study Abroad Program and major in Spanish and psychology.

Teachers who have influenced him most are Mr. Martelli, Mrs. Miers and Mr. Monson.

Realtor Scott Darling joins the Rob Lawrence Team at Vanguard Realty Alliance

Realtor Scott Darling has joined The Rob Lawrence Team at Vanguard Realty Alliance, LLC. Darling will continue to serve his clients of 31 years and lead the listing side of the business at Vanguard Realty Alliance, LLC, while mentoring new agents, and contributing his skill and experience in real estate investing.

Lawrence and Darling met through their business coach and immediately saw the mutual benefits of a partnership.

“I want to speed up my business and Scott wants a better work/life balance to give him time to enjoy the fruits of his labors,” Lawrence said. “We complement each other

perfectly at this time. The benefits of working together include putting Scott’s depth of knowledge in real estate sales and real estate investing to work for the team. We also look forward to Scott mentoring younger agents here.”

Lawrence enjoys all aspects of marketing and helping his clients become wealthy through real estate.

One of his team’s specialties is helping people invest in the Philadelphia area, covering the Philadelphia suburbs and Wilmington and Northern Delaware.

One way the team works with clients is to maximize the value of their investments when they sell. They also assist them to

Additional Obituaries on Page 3B

understand how to find a great deal when making a purchase.

In addition to leading his team at Vanguard Realty Alliance, Lawrence is also involved with the Philadelphia Wealth Project, a collaborative with more than 50 participants and the goal to create $100 million in net wealth in the next five years.

Before joining Vanguard Alliance Realty, LLC, Darling was a Top Producer at RE/MAX Action Associates in Exton for 27 Years.

He is an associate broker and holds the following designations: Certified Residential Specialist (CRS), Accredited Buyer

NOEL HERNANDEZ ORTIZ

Representative (ABR), Seniors Real Estate Specialist (SRES), Certified Distressed Property Expert (CDPE), Certified Social Media Marketer (CSM), and Military Residential Specialist (MilRes).

Darling has been a real estate agent since 1991 (and at RE/MAX since 1995) and plans to continue to work with his existing base of clients. By joining Vanguard Realty Alliance, LLC he looks forward to continuing to learn and grow in real estate.

“I have always considered myself more of a consultant than a salesperson because I listen to what my clients need and then guide them through the process,”

Obituaries

Noel Hernandez Ortiz, a resident of Oxford, died peacefully at home while surrounded by his loved ones, in his 98th year on March 12, 2023.

Born in Aguadilla, Puerto Rico on April 4, 1924, he was the youngest son of the late Adolfo Hernandez and Milagros Ortiz.

Noel was a special and much beloved uncle who is survived by many nieces and nephews, including Patricia J. Looby and John J. Cummings, whom he resided with.

Services are private.

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

SHIRLEY L. STONEBACK

Shirley L. Stoneback, of Nottingham, passed away on March 11, 2023, at her daughter’s residence. She was 85.

Born in Ashe County in North Carolina, she was the daughter of the late Charlie Smiley and the late Nora Davis Smiley.

Shirley worked at the MGA CO-OP for 25 years. She retired in 1999.

She enjoyed flower gardening, trips to Longwood Gardens, traveling and being with her family and friends.

Shirley is survived by four daughters, Linda DaBundo (and her husband Dominic) of Landenberg, Debra Johnston (and her husband Duke) of Landenberg, Catherine Antes (late husband Eddie) of Landenberg, and Patricia Kelly (and late husband Billy) of Phoenixville.

She is also survived by one sister, Joyce Jones of Creston, N.C.; ten grandchildren and thirteen great-grandchildren and her companion, Charles Tuggle of Nottingham. She was predeceased by one granddaughter, Hailey, one brother, Delmar Smiley, and three sisters, Velva Lewis, Minnie Welch and Ruby Pennington. Services were held on March 18 at the Kuzo Funeral Home in Kennett Square. Burial will be in the Kemblesville United Methodist Church Cemetery.

In memory of Shirley, a contribution may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, Tenn. 38105.

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

Darling said. “Now I can offer my clients even more options.”

His new partnership with Rob Lawrence and his team will enable Darling to embrace a better work/life balance.

Darling said, “I’ve been selling real estate for the last 31 years and most of that time was with RE/ MAX. I was looking for a way to expand my business as well as take more time off to be with family and enjoy my favorite outdoor activities and sporting events. I’ve also taught classes about Investing in Real Estate for many years and enjoy helping others become financially successful. With the help of my real

estate coach I was able to create a plan to make this happen. Rob has the same goals and aspirations that I had earlier in my career; we’re both about helping the client make the best decisions possible when it comes to real estate as well as creating wealth. Rob is very dynamic, energetic, intelligent and a great connector with people. This partnership is a perfect mesh and will benefit all of our combined clients and future clients. The journey has just begun and we’re both really excited about what it can bring,” Vanguard Realty Alliance, LLC is located at 1244 West Chester Pike, Ste. 409, in West Chester.

LYNN WICKERS SHIREY

Lynn Wickers Shirey, of New London, Pa., passed away at home on March 12, 2023. She was 74.

She was the wife of David R. Shirey.

Born in Norfolk, Va., she was the daughter of the late Linwood and Elma Wickers.

Lynn received her bachelor’s degree from Old Dominion University in Norfolk, Va.

She was employed as a real estate broker and was previously employed as a school teacher.

She enjoyed flowers, gardening, her dog Emma, driving her mini cooper, decorating and steamed crabs and lobster.

She is survived by her husband and a niece, Tracy Coughlin, of Watertown, Mass.

A private celebration of life service will be held April 22.

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

Courtesy photo

Pictured are Avon Grove High School Assistant Principal Ashley Penn, Liza Golter, Nicholas Golter, Brian Golter and Avon Grove Lions President George Steele.

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