Chester County Press 04-21-2021 Edition by Ad Pro Inc.

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Kennett High Kennett Township School front steps agrees to new to be refurbished territorial fire coverage and response plan By Richard L. Gaw Staff Writer

Oxford Inc. wins grant...5B

Wednesday, April 21, 2021

By a 2-1 vote, the Kennett Township Board of Supervisors passed a motion at a special virtual meeting on April 15 that will provide more resources to the Kennett and Longwood fire companies, and will overhaul the method by which fire and rescue services will be administered in the township, beginning on May 3. The motion had been adopted by the Kennett Fire and EMS Regional Commission on April 14, based on recommendations specified in its recently issued policy briefing analysis of how fire and rescue services are being conducted in the region. During a 90-minute meeting, board Chairman Richard Leff and Supervisor Whitney Hoffman agreed to a motion that will:

• Reassign primary firefighting responsibilities in Kennett Township to both fire companies in accordance with a new fire coverage and response plan that will divide the township and borough into four coverage regions: • The Longwood Fire Company will provide fire and rescue service in the area east of Bayard Road, just north of Longwood Gardens and south to the Delaware state line. • The Kennett Fire Company will provide exclusive fire and rescue service to the Kennett Borough. • Both companies will share fire and rescue coverage for the area west of Bayard Road to the western edge of the township and south to the Delaware State Line; and • Fire and rescue coverage of the southwestern corner of the township will be shared by the Longwood, Kennett and Hockessin fire companies. In addition: • The Kennett Fire

Company’s EMS operations will be “retired” in order to allow funding to be allocated to paid firefighters at the fire company. • The Kennett Regional Fire and EMS Commission will increase its annual funding to the Kennett Fire Company to include two paid firefighters and one paid supervisor to allow for weekday coverage from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m., at an estimated cost of $254,720 per year and • The Commission will also increase its annual funding to the Longwood Fire Company to include one additional paid firefighter, at an estimate of $74,100. Kennett Township Manager Eden Ratliff said that the plan enables the Kennett Fire Company to fulfill its greatest need – increasing its firefighting workforce – as well as locking the Continued on page 2A

Photo by Chris Barber

On close inspection, the front steps of the Kennett High School show signs of crumbling and rust stains.

By Chris Barber Contributing Writer Kennett High School’s revered and architecturally acclaimed front steps are getting a facelift. Kennett Consolidated School District facilities director George Wolhafe announced at the virtual April 12 board meeting that work is scheduled to begin on April 26 with the installation of protective barriers. He explained in an earlier interview that the steps are being preserved and are

structurally sound, but they are showing signs of aging. During the construction period, Wolhafe said, there would be staggered openings on sections of the stairs. With it all, they will look exactly the same following the completion of the project. The stairs have long been a source of pride to the school and community. Graduates often mention how grateful they are to walk down the steps as they enter commencement ceremonies. Continued on page 3A

Labor contractor indicted for operating undocumented worker conspiracy A local business owner is accused of supplying hundreds of workers to mushroom farms in Chester County A sweeping investigation by federal law enforcement officials has resulted in the arrests of four local men who are now facing charges of conspiring to transport, and transporting, people who are in the United States illegally. In an indictment that was announced by acting U.S. Attorney Jennifer Arbittier Williams, the four men

were identified as Miguel Morales, 48, of Quarryville; Jose Morales, 39, also of Quarryville; Oscar CarrilloPerez, 35, of West Grove; and Santiago GarciaRamirez, 44, of Landenberg. In addition to the undocumented worker conspiracy charges, Morales was charged with making false statements. In a separate

indictment, Miguel Morales and Lawrence Urena, 49, of Spring Lake, N.C., who was also arrested, were charged with conspiracy to defraud the United States and failure to collect and pay employment taxes. According to the first indictment, Miguel Morales, who owns and operates Morales Contractor, provid-

Michael and Nancy Pia donate land for new home for KACS

Kennett Area Community Service (KACS) has been looking for a new home to continue to serve those in the community who need assistance in meeting their basic needs. KACS is a nonprofit organization based in Kennett Square Borough that operates a food cupboard and provides a variety of services to individuals and families in need. That search for a new, larger home has intensified in the last year as KACS has seen a significant increase in requests for assistance as families have navigated through the challenges of the pandemic. Now, KACS has announced that Michael and Nancy Pia, who are well known for their charitable giving in the community, are making a donation that will help the organization build a new home. The Pias have generously offered to donate approximately six acres of land on Cypress Street, bordering Kennett and New Garden townships, and to provide financial support to help establish a new home for KACS at this location. In a statement distributed by KACS, the organization

ed a contracted labor force to various mushroom farms in Chester County. These farms were businesses that were independent from the one operated by Morales. The labor force Morales provided was comprised of hundreds of undocumented workers, according to the indictment. Morales provided some of these workers with housing

Courtesy photo

thanked the Pias for the support, and noted that they have been “significant, long term supporters of KACS.” The statement continued, “The KACS Board of Directors has unanimously voted to accept this very

generous offer and extend sincere thanks to the Pias for providing this significant gift. KACS looks forward to working with the Pias now and in the future to fulfill the mission of KACS and Continued on page 4A

Continued on page 3A

Oxford Borough Council approves non-uniform employees contract By Betsy Brewer Brantner Contributing Writer

Kennett Area Community Service operates a food cupboard and provides a variety of services to individuals and families in need.

in 10 properties that he owns in Lancaster and Chester counties, and with transportation to and from the farms where they worked— charging those workers for both rent and transportation. The indictment alleges that, from at least 2018, Miguel Morales, Carrillo-Perez, Garcia-Ramirez, and Jose

Oxford Borough Council unanimously approved a new non-uniform employees contract at its April 19 meeting. The new contract will run from 2021 to 2024. Council President Peggy Russell thanked the employees saying, “The staff, for the most part, could not choose to work from home during the pandemic. The office staff juggled, following COVID policy, while responding to the needs of the residents and taxpayers.” She was blunt when referring to what public works employees had to do, saying, “The public works staff continued their duties, including picking up trash, and removing vomit and blood.” The four-year contract will run from Jan. 1, 2021 through Dec. 31, 2024. One of the changes included the following wage increases: • Jan. 1 2021 – base rate of each employee increased $1/hour • Jan. 1 2022 – base rate

of each employee increased $1.00/hour • Jan. 1 2023 – base rate of each employee increased $1.50/hour • Jan. 1 2024 – base rate of each employee increased $1.50/hour • Duty pay (paid to the weekly “duty” or on-call employee) – raised from $100 to $150 The borough is also researching new health insurance coverage for its employees. The contract includes a new provision that, if the borough negotiates a change to healthcare carriers or coverage, the borough has the right to re-open the health insurance provision of this contract and try to negotiate a change to the new plan in an effort to provide one plan for all employees. If the union does not agree to the new plan, then the borough has the right to reopen the provision to allow the negotiation of an increase in the employee premium contribution provision. Borough council approved the special event permit for the popular OMI Car Continued on page 4A

CHESTER COUNTY PRESS

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 21, 2021

Chester County Press

Local News Fire coverage... Continued from Page 1A

fire company in partnership with the Longwood Fire Company for wider coverage areas beyond their current fire and rescue coverage of the Kennett Borough and the western edge of the township. “This (plan) builds out a dual dispatch program that extends the Kennett Fire Company’s reach even further, which provides better coverage by using both fire companies,” Ratliff said. Many of the reasons that led to the reworking of the fire and rescue plan passage are contained in “An Analysis of Kennett Fire Company Fire & Rescue Response Performance,” that was issued on March 4, 2021 by the Kennett Fire and EMS Regional Commission. The report contains analyzed response performance data for 2020 that showed Kennett Fire Company had inadequate response times for a majority of their calls during evenings and weekends. The findings of the analysis, reviewed with the Kennett Regional Fire and EMS Commission along with the township’s board, led to growing concern for public safety in Kennett Fire Company’s coverage areas -the Kennett Square Borough and the western half of the township. The response rate of these responders, the analysis found, was impacted by several factors in 2020 including COVID-19 and

structure issues within the department. Kennett Fire Company’s newly appointed Fire Chief Tom Brady said that while the company still needs to vote on the proposal at a meeting scheduled for April 27, “We feel the deal that the Commission and Kennett Township presented was very promising to the Kennett Fire Company, and the overall consensus from the company is very positive,” he said. A.J. McCarthy, fire chief at the Longwood Fire Company, called the proposal a win for both companies. “It keeps everyone involved,” he said. “It accomplishes our regional objectives, and it’s going to give us new possibilities in being able to increase the efficiency of service not only to the township residents but in the region.” Hoffman said that the agreement “has been a long time in coming.” “I have spent a lot of time speaking with both companies from last October through February," she said. "I think it's going to reduce response times, make sure that everybody is safe and enhance the service to the residents, which is the thing that is most important here. It’s great that the companies are coming together and looking for opportunities to work together.” “When I was looking at this process, I was looking at it not only from the lens of Kennett Township, but from

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how the whole system functions,” Leff said. “This gives us the chance to look regionally at how fire and rescue services are delivered. It supports the fire companies in their efforts to recruit, train and retain volunteers as much as possible.” Before casting his vote against the motion, Supervisor Scudder Stevens – just as he had done in previous recent meetings related to the coverage of fire and EMS in the township -- focused nearly all of his ire on Ratliff, Leff and Hoffman for their failure to “sit down with Kennett Fire and EMS administration and offer to address their shortcomings in a transactional and incremental way.” Stevens fires back against the plan Over the course of the past few months, the refrain in Stevens’ comments in reference to negotiations that will change how the township's fire and EMS services will be conducted in the near future have been both familiar and accusatory, likening the process to a power grab by the Longwood Fire Company to dominate the local fire and EMS landscape that is being orchestrated by McCarthy, underwritten by Ratliff and ushered into motion by Leff and Hoffman. If the redesign of fire and rescue coverage territories primarily involving the Kennett and Longwood fire companies – as well as Stevens’ opposition -- sounded like a case of déjà vu, it is because it generously overlaps his opposition to a decision that was reached just a few short months ago by the same 2-1 vote. At their Feb. 3 online meeting, Leff and Hoffman voted in favor of a motion made a month before that made Longwood Fire Company the township’s single-source provider of advanced life support (ALS) and basic life support (BLS) as part of a one-year agreement that began on March 1. Under the guidelines of the agreement, Longwood,

Kennett Township Fire and Rescue Response Plan by Territory

Courtesy image

Coverage Area Key by Color: Light Purple: Longwood Fire Company (East of Bayard Road) Light Red: Longwood and Kennett fire companies (West of Bayard Road) Dark Red: Kennett Fire Company (Kennett Borough) Blue: Kennett, Longwood and Hockessin fire companies (Southwest corner of township)

the current EMS provider for the eastern portion of the township, became the sole provider of EMS services in the area of the township that is west of Bayard Road. In response to the decision, Stevens argued that the new agreement would lead to township residents spending $400 more per each EMS visit from Longwood than from Kennett; that because there would be little chance for a Longwood “chase car” to be stationed at the Kennett Fire Company, it would result in a longer response time for Longwood to answer EMS calls; that the township’s decision would result in Kennett Borough dropping out of the six-member Regional Fire and EMS Commission, which may lead to the dissolution of the Commission; that personnel, human relations or quality of service concerns were never raised by either Hoffman or Ratliff during negotiations with Kennett Fire and EMS; and that the six-month discussion that ultimately ended in the township’s agreement with Longwood has been about saving the township money, especially

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given that Kennett’s proposal is “less expensive and less disruptive.” Stevens’ comments on April 15 were in full step with his past remarks. While he acknowledged the need for the Kennett Fire Company to bolster their operations, Stevens accused his colleagues of using the fire company’s shortcomings against them, “and then, in a systematic and intentional way, set out to dismantle and destroy the Kennett Fire Company.” ‘Bulldozing’ and ‘bullying’ The motion to “retire” all EMS operations at the Kennett Fire Company essentially added another log onto the fire of Stevens’ argument at the April 15 meeting. “The township has bulldozed and bullied its way to this evening,” Stevens said. “It started out on the argument that the township would save money. This was a straw argument since the financial obligation was with the Commission and not the township. But we were assured that the township would save some $29,000 by eliminating Kennett EMS. “When Kennett EMS counter-proposed a change that would keep them alive and save $38,000, to boot, the township then changed its argument and said that it was about services provided and human relations issues -- such as that Kennett EMS was cheaper than Longwood and must, therefore, be skimping on its obligations to its employees and volunteers.” In the conversations he had with members of the Kennett

Fire Company after the April 14 meeting, Stevens said that they acknowledged to him that “they were backed into the corner, and pushed over the barrel by these bullying tactics, but the [fire company's] administrators appear to be happy with the outcome,” he said. Stevens accused Leff and Hoffman of entering into this plan “like lemmings, driven to hold a special meeting, tonight, to act on this proposal,” he said. “We could have done this next Wednesday at our regularly scheduled meeting [on April 21], or addressed it at the meeting after that, and still been within the limits imposed. For some reason this needed to be done tonight. “As with all aspects of the fire and EMS question in Kennett Township, there seems to be a private agenda to lock this matter down, as soon as possible, [and] damn the consequences.” McCarthy responds to Stevens At the conclusion of Stevens’ comments, McCarthy replied directly to Stevens. “We came to this together,” McCarthy said, referring to both fire companies. “We have had conversations about this plan and we’re both optimistic about trying to do this as a clean slate, so if anyone should be jumping up and down about this it should be you, and you’re not, and I am concerned with that. “You spent many, many, many hours going at me during the Commission meetings about working with [the Kennett Fire Company], and Continued on page 4A

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WEDNESDAY, APRIL 21, 2021

CHESTER COUNTY PRESS

Chester County Press

Local News School steps... Continued from Page 1A

Others in the community recall hearing friends from afar saying how beautiful the school looks, especially as they drive south on Broad Street and see it for the first time. In the early 1970s, the school board offered a plan to expand the auditorium in a construction project and eliminate the steps. Heavy and emotional criticism from residents and graduates alike erupted, and that project was abandoned. Former Kennett News and Advertiser Editor and “Kennett Square Yesterday and Today” author Richard W. Taylor wrote, “In the early 1970s a renovation was proposed by the school board. Maintenance had been postponed and repairs were necessary. Plans for the expansion were presented at a public hearing, and the architect’s design to remove the front steps and

Undocumented workers... Continued from Page 1A

Morales conspired to transport these undocumented workers who were illegally in the United States. The indictment also alleges that Miguel Morales hired people regardless of their immigration status, hired undocumented aliens who were not lawfully present in the United States, did not file Form W-2 Wage and Tax Statements, and failed to collect and pay over to the IRS employment taxes for his business. Carrillo-Perez, Garcia-

install a larger auditorium drew howls of protest from the audience …The plans were revised, and work began in 1978.” The school and its stately architecture dating back to 1931 still receive admiring comments from visitors. On closer inspection, however, the signs of wear that Wolhafe referred to are visible. Karen Halstead, a 1960 graduate of Kennett High School who is aware of the uproar that surrounded the proposed project to remove the front steps, stopped at the school recently to see the current conditions. She said this: “After checking out the historic steps, I saw the true need for those renovations. Sad to see them crumbling in many places. Bravo for the insight and dedication to those repairs. Never too late, but close!” In other board reports, district Assistant Superintendent Dr. Michael Barber said he and the Ramirez, and Jose Morales allegedly participated in the conspiracy by driving vehicles registered to Miguel Morales to transport the undocumented workers between their residences and the farms where they worked for Morales Contractor, handing out paychecks to the workers, and driving them to La Latina Intemational Market in Oxford, where they could cash their paychecks and wire money to foreign countries. La Latina also was operated by Miguel Morales. The remaining counts of the indictment charge all of the defendants

Photo by Chris Barber

Student Council representative Mikayla Klenk reported that the return of spring sports has brought with it victories, including this recent girls lacrosse win over Penncrest High School.

Students process down the front steps of the high school to the commencement ceremonies during a ceremony held several years ago.

staff are happy to see the in-school reopening that occurred on April 5. “It was exciting to see our kids and parents on campus,” he said. Student Council representative Mikayla Klenk echoed his enthusiasm as she listed a host of oncampus activities that are planned for the students. They include, among many others, a mini-Thon, a prom, a senior dinner, Spirit Week, a musical, Senior

Stroll and the total return of spring sports. She reported that the teams are experiencing success, including the boys’ and girls’ lacrosse teams, that are turning in victories. Klenk added that there is some frustration among students that they must eat lunch with barriers that cut down on conversations, but otherwise there is joy among the students to be back. School board treasurer Michael Finnegan reported

that the finance committee has been able to pare down the preliminary budget from $90.4 million to $ 90.2 million, thus reducing the tax increase from 2.3 percent to 1.85 percent. Board member Dr. Vicki Gehrt, who represents Kennett on the Chester County Intermediate Unit, said she is pleased that they are now offering courses for adults, including HVAC, welding and commercial driver’s license courses.

Board President Joe Meola reported the resignation of school board member Maribel Garcia. He said that applications to replace her will be received until April 28, with a vote by the board on naming a replacement that will take place on May 10. He also said he was happy to announce that the board will resume meeting onsite at Mary D. Lang Kindergarten Center in May.

with transporting undocumented people across state lines on various dates. The second indictment alleges that Miguel Morales and Lawrence Urena conspired to obstruct the IRS in its lawful assessment and collection of unemployment taxes. According to this Indictment, Urena operated Urena Accounting, which was a tax preparation business that handled accounting work for Morales, including weekly payroll. For calendar year 2020, Morales paid wages of $3,644,142 to employees, many of whom earned $10 per hour, which required him to withhold

and pay over to the IRS approximately $921,968 in employment taxes. However, Morales allegedly paid no employment taxes to the IRS in 2020. Further, the Indictment also alleges that from 2015 to 2018, Morales paid the IRS only a fraction of what he owed, resulting in a tax loss of approximately $2 million. “According to the indictment, Miguel Morales and the other defendants knew they were employing undocumented workers as part of a years-long scheme to avoid paying their fair share of taxes to the United States,” said Williams, the acting

U.S. Attorney. “This case is about exploiting those less fortunate out of sheer greed. This type of fraud will not be tolerated in this district, and these defendants will now have to answer to these charges.” If convicted, the defendants could face the following possible sentences: Miguel Morales faces a maximum possible sentence of 250 years in prison, and a $8,750,000 fine; Lawrence Urena faces a maximum possible sentence of five years in prison, and a $250,000 fine; CarrilloPerez faces a maximum possible sentence of 65 years

in prison, and a $1,750,000 fine; Garcia-Ramirez faces a maximum possible sentence of 85 years in prison, and a $2,250,000 fine; and Jose Morales faces a maximum possible sentence of 15 years of imprisonment, $500,000 and a period of supervised release of three years. The case was investigated by Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation, Homeland Security Investigations, Department of Labor Office of Inspector General, and the Chester County Detectives; and is being prosecuted by assistant U.S. Attorney Karen Grigsby.

File photo by Chris Barber

CHESTER COUNTY PRESS

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 21, 2021

Chester County Press

Land donation... Continued from Page 1A

support southern Chester County.” The Pia family is entrenched in the southern Chester County community. Michael has worked his entire career in the family’s mushroom farming business, South Mill Champs, which has grown to be the third largest mushroom producer in North America. Nancy is

Oxford Borough... Continued from Page 1A

Show scheduled for Sept. 3, 2021, in accordance with the guidelines of the CDC and the Pennsylvania Health Department. The permit was approved pending approval from the local fire, police, and emergency services department. The show will also follow CDC and Chester County Health Department guidelines. Council also witnessed the swearing-in of police officer Karliana Eller by Mayor Phil Harris. Eller has been working as a part-time officer in the department since Feb. 1 of this year. Police Chief Sam Iacono welcomed Eller to the police department and told council that the department is now fully staffed. Iacono also told council that the Oxford Borough Police Department and Oxford Area School District

Fire coverage... Continued from Page 2A

right now we’re standing shoulder to shoulder telling you what is going to be beneficial for the both of us and what is going to be beneficial for the residents, and now it’s not acceptable, and I have a hard time with that.” In his follow-up remarks to McCarthy, Stevens said his

an educator, having taught in both local and inner-city schools. She is also an artist and published writer. In 2002, the Pias established the Michael and Nancy Pia Foundation in order to formalize their charitable giving. The Foundation is dedicated to improving the lives of children, and supports organizations and programs focused in those areas. In 2018, the Pias established the Michael &

Nancy Pia Foundation Fund through the Chester County Community Foundation to expand the reach of their charitable giving. The Fund is focused on specific areas relating to children and families: homelessness, poverty, and hunger; health, specifically mental well-being; and education. KACS, home of the Kennett Food Cupboard works to end poverty, strengthening the community in Southern

Chester County through food, housing, and crisis services. Located in Kennett Square, KACS services the Kennett Consolidated, Avon Grove and Unionville Chadds-Ford school districts.

wished school crossing guard William McKim a happy and well-deserved retirement. A certificate was presented to McKim on March 16 for his ten years of exemplary service. On April 6, the Oxford Borough Police Department conducted a traffic detail in front of Jordan Bank and Penn’s Grove schools. Six officers participated using a speed timing device to enforce the 15 mph school zone. Out of 650 vehicles that were clocked, 57 vehicles were in violation of speeding in the school zone, which carries a maximum fine of $500 and three points. Council was also informed that the Lieutenant’s test will be given by the Civil Service Commission on May 8. Sidewalks were discussed at the council meeting, including whether setting up a sidewalk fund would be possible. Borough solici-

tor Stacey Fuller, reviewed possible options for a sidewalk fund. “For years, we have talked about how the borough could assist residents in paying for sidewalks if grants are not possible,” she said. “We have discussed if the Borough should pay for sidewalks or if loans for residents through the Borough are possible. At times the Borough has tried to decide if there is a mechanism to go back to those people who have paid for their sidewalks against those that have received grants for sidewalks. There is no mechanism to fix the past.” After a lengthy discussion it was decided that the Finance Committee would pick up the discussion and make it part of a capital spending plan. In other business, council approved an ordinance prohibiting on-street parking on both sides of Market

Street between Fifth Street and the eastern borough line. The ordinance will go into effect five days after approval of the ordinance. In other news, Oxford residents will be happy to hear that the Oxford Library is now fully open. Library Director Carey Bresler told Council, “The library is fully open. We still have safety measures in place, including requiring masks. As things open up and people continue to get vaccinated, we will get back to normal.” Bresler said summer camp will continue. “We will set up a tent in the back for two weeks this year, and will be assisted by the Oxford Arts Alliance,” Bresler said. “We thank the Oxford Civic Association for their funding of this project.” The library is once again planning the Oxford Library Fish Tales Tournament from June 26 to July 11. The

tournament is sponsored by Landhope Farms. One $200 grand prize will be awarded for the largest fish and first, second and third prizes will be awarded to both junior anglers (under 16) and adult anglers. For more information call 610-932-9625. Bresler thanked Mayor Harris and Corporal Scott Brown for their help with the tournament. Mayor Harris continues to work on plans for this year’s virtual Memorial Day Parade. Harris is also working on plans to have the Chester County District Attorney visit Oxford in late June. In other business, council approved the proposal provided by Emergent Energy Solutions for the elevator camera in the parking garage in the amount of $4,500 and the proposal to install provided by the Otis Elevator Company in the amount of $3,800, for a

total estimated project cost of $8,300. Council approved a motion to authorize advertising an ordinance amending Chapter 1 of the Borough Code to create a new Part 9, Anti-discrimination, and new §1-901, Antidiscrimination by Council, Mayor, Employees, and and Members of Advisory Boards and Commissions. Council approved a motion to approve BP Paterson Inc.’s Pay Application #3 in the amount of $37,245.45 for the North Second Street Utility Improvements project. Council also approved a HARB recommendation for 238 S. Fifth Street. Due to the closing of the S. Third Street BB&T Bank, council approved having a letter sent to BB&T expressing concern for borough residents who will have no bank within walking distance of the Borough.

criticism of the plan was not directed at either fire company but to his colleagues at the township, and in fact called the collaboration between the two fire companies “very positive.” “My comments were all directed to how my partners have treated Kennett Fire and EMS and the borough in this whole transaction, and that is a real problem for

me,” he said. “I am sorry that I have been so vociferous about it, but I have really been upset about it. I believe our behavior has been unacceptable. “I am very happy with it coming together. What I am not happy about is what it is doing – or may have done – to an organization that has been around for 150 years, with nothing but the highest

honor bestowed upon it for the heroic work they have done for our community.” Steve Melton, deputy fire chief of the Kennett Fire Company, said he had been asking for this regional approach to fire safety since the start of the Kennett Fire and EMS Regional Commission. “I am ecstatic that this is taking place, and I look for-

ward to making this whole community -- the township, the borough and the rest of the municipalities that are involved in this throughout southern Chester County – a much better place to live… if, and hopefully if, the Kennett Fire Company votes to do this,” he said. Melton later assured Stevens that the collaboration between Kennett and

Longwood fire companies will add another 150 years to the history of the Kennett Fire Company. “[The plan] gives us the structure to continue, the structure to grow, and to do what we like doing best, which is helping people.”

Courtesy photo

Michael and Nancy Pia, who are well known for their charitable giving in the community, are making a donation that will help Kennett Area Community Service build a new home.

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

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WEDNESDAY, APRIL 21, 2021

CHESTER COUNTY PRESS

Chester County Press

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

Opinion

Editorial

Letter to the Editor

Volunteers needed

Pa. lawmakers must strengthen methane rules Letter to the Editor: I love Pennsylvania for its changing seasons, but I hate to see it ravaged by extreme weather such as floods, blizzards and tornadoes. These extreme weather events will become increasingly common should climate change continue. An unstable climate is not something I want to worry about in the future when I raise children in beautiful Pennsylvania. Climate change is a threat

Photo by Steven Hoffman

As this sign outside the West Grove Fire Company’s New London station indicates, this fire company—as well as pretty much every volunteer fire company in the area—is in need of volunteers. Can you help? This newspaper has written some stories about the challenges facing local fire companies and ambulance divisions. Virtually every issue that they face—everything from increased demands for emergency services to the extra training that volunteers are required to have to the dire financial concerns that they face—are made more daunting by a diminishing number of volunteers. In the past, local fire companies and ambulance divisions were able to get enough volunteers to meet the needs for fire protection and emergency services of the communities they serve. In some cases, there were enough volunteers to stage fundraising events like Bingo nights or carnivals to help raise money to offset some of the operating costs. It has long been apparent that, in the absence of volunteers, fire companies and ambulance divisions will rely more and more on paid professionals. This will increase municipal costs, and that means taxes will go up. If you’re able to volunteer for one of the local fire companies, it’s a good way to serve the community that you live in.

Pillars of the community This area is blessed to have so many generous people who are willing to help others. Michael and Nancy Pia are true pillars of the community, and in this edition of the Chester County Press we have a story about their latest charitable act. The Pias have generously offered to donate approximately 6 acres of land on Cypress Street, bordering Kennett and New Garden townships, to Kennett Area Community Service. Kennett Area Community Service has been looking for a new home to continue to serve those in the community who need assistance in meeting their basic needs. KACS is a nonprofit organization based in Kennett Square Borough that operates a food cupboard and provides a variety of services to individuals and families in need. That search for a new, larger home has intensified in the last year as KACS has seen a significant increase in requests for assistance as families have navigated through the challenges of the pandemic. The donation from the Pias will allow Kennett Area Community Service to move forward to its next chapter. Through the years, the Pia family has been very supportive of nonprofit organizations. The Pias established the Michael and Nancy Pia Foundation in order to formalize their charitable giving. The Foundation is dedicated to improving the lives of children, and supports organizations and programs focused in those areas. In 2018, the Pias established the Michael & Nancy Pia Foundation Fund through the Chester County Community Foundation to expand the reach of their charitable giving. It wasn’t that long ago that the Michael and Nancy Pia Foundation made the largest monetary gift for the Nemours/Alfred I. duPont Hospital’s Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. Having pillars of the community like this is just one reason why southern Chester County is such a special place.

because of greenhouse gas emissions that mostly come from fossil fuels. So when fracking companies release methane, a highly potent greenhouse gas, into the atmosphere, it puts us all at risk for an unstable climate. That is why the state has drafted a methane rule: to regulate the processes in Pennsylvania that release methane. However, if you were to take a closer look at the methane rule, some glaring

issues exist. Loopholes in the rule would allow less frequent inspections of fracking wells, which can cause disastrous leaks if uninspected. The proposed rule would also give lowproducing wells a free pass to pollute. Low-producing wells are outdated fracking wells responsible for at least half of the methane emissions from oil and gas sources in Pennsylvania. The Pennsylvania Department of Environ-

mental Protection (DEP) must strengthen the proposed rule to ensure a better future for all Pennsylvanians. The final rule needs to be tougher on low-producing wells and require frequent inspections. I am urging Gov. Tom Wolf and the Pennsylvania DEP to strengthen the final rule for the sake of our future climate. McKenna Kovatch West Chester University student

Rep. Lawrence handling House Speaker role this week House Speaker Bryan Cutler is quarantining after a positive COVID-19 test so Rep. John Lawrence will handle those duties State Rep. John Lawrence, who represents the 13th Legislative District, will serve as the speaker pro tempore for House session this week while House Speaker Bryan Cutler (R-Lancaster) continues to quarantine because of a positive COVID-19 test. “In his time in Harrisburg, Rep. Lawrence has proven himself as a man of integrity and humility,” Cutler said. “John remains steadfastly committed to being an independent and impartial voice

of his district and possesses a strong respect and understanding of our House rules. I look forward to watching him oversee our chamber.” Under the rules for the House, the speaker may appoint a member as speaker pro tempore to act in the speaker’s absence. Cutler will participate in session via remote voting, as is permitted under the temporary House rules. Lawrence was first elected to the Pennsylvania House of Representatives in 2010. State Rep. John Lawrence

Courtesy photo

Chester County receives grant to help address gaps in southern Chester County Internet access The Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry has awarded a $200,000 grant to conduct a southern Chester County internet access study, following concerns raised by community and business representatives of the region, and a successful application by the Chester County Department of Community Development. The application for funding followed a meeting between the Chester County Commissioners and community leaders from southern Chester County to discuss the internet access challenges faced by residents and businesses in the region. Chester County Commissioners Marian Moskowitz, Josh Maxwell and Michelle Kichline said

in a statement, “It is difficult to believe that there are areas of Chester County that do not have strong digital access, but this is the case in pockets of the southern part of the county. “The ‘virtual’ world brought on by the pandemic has made internet coverage very necessary. We are pleased that the state has recognized this and awarded the funds needed to begin addressing it.” The southern Chester County Internet access study will analyze Internet access to business and residential areas of the four southern Chester County school districts, including Kennett, Avon Grove, Oxford and Unionville-Chadds Ford. Led by the Chester County Intermediate Unit, which is recipient of the grant,

the study will include input from the Southern Chester County Opportunity Network, the Southern Chester County Chamber of Commerce, municipal officials, local employers, telecom providers, the four school districts, and other community representatives including senior households. Kennett Township supervisor Whitney Hoffman, one of the community leaders initiating the call to address the internet access issue in southern Chester County said, “We are incredibly grateful to the County for its help with this important project. We’ll soon have a better idea of where we have weaknesses in our local broadband and cellular networks, and be

ready to make improvements, especially as funding may become available through the proposed federal infrastructure bill being considered in Congress.” An interactive map produced by Ben St. Germain, Purdue Center for Regional Development in 2018, shows that just under 15 percent of Chester County in total lacks internet access, with areas of high and moderate vulnerability located in the southwestern part of Chester County. The Chester County Intermediate Unit will begin a request for proposal process as soon as funds are received by the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry, with a goal to begin the study by July.

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Chester County Press

In the Spotlight

Section

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 21, 2021

“Mare of Easttown” premiered April 18

New HBO series filmed on location in Chester and Delaware counties By Richard L. Gaw Staff Writer When Delaware audiences gathered in cinemas across the state beginning in June 1989 to see the film Dead Poets Society, it was assumed that half of them were there to see the work of actor Robin Williams and the story of how a teacher influenced the creative and spiritual lives of his pupils. The other half settled in with their popcorn to catch glimpses of recognizable places, given that the entire film was shot in Delaware during the summer of 1988. From scene to scene, the First State was everywhere, from the Everett Theatre and St. Andrew’s School in Middletown to Old New Castle and beyond. For those residents of Chester County who tuned in to the premiere episode of HBO’s new series “Mare of Easttown” on April 18, there was very likely the same division of interest, from those who were there for the compelling drama, and an audience who

watched just to point out the familiar scenery. Created by Pennsylvania native Brad Ingelsby, the seven-part series was filmed on location throughout Delaware County and Chester County, at sites that include the Commodore Barry Bridge in Chester; the former South Brandywine Middle School in Coatesville; Coatesville High School; Scott Field in Coatesville; and Spar Hill Farm in Kennett Township. Filming of the series began in the fall of 2019 and was originally set to continue through April. However, production was shut down early due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Filming resumed last fall. “Mare of Easttown” stars Academy Award, Emmy and Golden Globe winner Kate Winslet as Mare Sheehan, a small-town Pennsylvania detective who investigates a local murder as life crumbles around her. The series does a deep dive into the dark side of a close community and an authentic examination of how family and

past tragedies can define our present. “Mare of Easttown” is already garnering critical acclaim, having received an approval rating of 80 percent by Rotten Tomatoes, which wrote on its website, “Grounded by a career-best Kate Winslet, ‘Mare of Easttown’’s ambitions at times exceed its reach, but its central mystery is supported by such strong sense of place and character it hardly matters.” Ingelsby grew up in Berwyn, attended Archbishop John Carroll High School and graduated from Villanova University with a business degree and taught at St. Patrick’s School in Malvern. Ingelsby later attended the American Film Institute as a graduate student in screenwriting, which led to his writing a screenplay that was later made into the film Out of the Furnace (2013) that starred Christian Bale and Woody Harrelson. In 2015, Ingelsby wrote the screenplay for Run

Photo by Michele K. Short/HBO

Academy Award, Emmy and Golden Globe winner Kate Winslet stars as Mare Sheehan in the new HBO series “Mare of Easttown,” which was filmed on location in Chester and Delaware counties.

All Night, starring Liam Neeson and Ed Harris, and in 2020, the film The Way Back was released, based on his spec- script. It starred Ben Affleck as a high school basketball coach trying to improve a team as well as his personal life. “On a lot of levels, it was a great experience,” Ingelsby recently told a news reporter about the experience of filming

“Mare of Easttown.” “I got to go home and shoot something at home, which I never had the chance to do before. That was obviously a great experience and then I got to work with Kate Winslet, who is an incredible actress and she took on a part that I had written and I got to do it at home. I couldn’t ask for a lot more than that.” “Mare of Easttown” also stars Julianne Nicholson;

Photo by Sarah Shatz/HBO

Winslet, seen her filming with actor Guy Pearce, shot several scenes of the series in the Coatesville area last year.

three-time Emmy® winner Jean Smart; Angourie Rice; Evan Peters; and Emmy® winner and Golden Globe® nominee Guy Pearce. “Mare of Easttown” can be seen Sundays at 10:00 p.m. on HBO and will be available to stream on HBO Max. To contact Staff Writer Richard L. Gaw, email rgaw@chestercounty.com.

Photo by Richard L. Gaw

“Mare of Easttown” was also filmed at the Spar Hill Farm in Kennett Township.

Letty’s Tavern opens in Kennett Square 4AM Hospitality’s new restaurant features elevated pub-fare that uses house-made, locally sourced ingredients Kennett Square’s impressive menu of dining destinations includes a new entry as 4AM Hospitality recently celebrated the opening of Letty’s Tavern at 201 State Street. The tavern offers modern interpretations of elevated pub-fare, blending fresh West Coast flavors with house-made and locally sourced ingredients. Downstairs from the tavern is Letty’s Bottle Shop, which features a curated and rotating selection of in-demand bottles of wine, local independent brewers, distillers, and seasonal releases. Letty’s Tavern is named after the resident ghost, a precocious child named in honor of William Penn’s daughter. There have been sightings of her roaming her former home from time to time. The tavern is the creation of 4AM Hospitality, which was founded by Dan Daley, Matt Killion and Jacob Short. 4AM Hospitality already had a presence in Chester County—it owns and operates the popular Saucey’s in West Chester.

The Letty’s Tavern menu offers something for everyone, from small plates to soups and salads, sandwiches, burgers, pizza, and entrees for plantbased, gluten-free, and omnivores alike. Housemade and from-scratch elements dominate the food and cocktail menus, including aiolis, dressings, pickles, the orgeats, and bitters. Menu standouts include Mushroom Toasts with whipped ricotta, duxelle, and crispy sage ($8), Marinated Olives with Meyer lemon, garlic, thyme oil, and grilled halloumi ($6). The Parker House Rolls with honey butter and blackberry jam are recipes from Jaclyn Short, a pastry chef who is also married to one of the owners. Sandwiches and entrees showcase house-made elements such as the KFC, Korean Fried Chicken Sandwich starring brined and fried chicken with house-made kimchi spread, chili, daikon, carrots, cabbage, and cucumber ($14). The Steak and Potatoes is the marriage of familiar elements of a perfectly grilled

and seasoned hangar steak with smashed potato and zhoug, a spicy green chili cilantro sauce alternative to the ubiquitous chimichurri ($28). Pizza ranges from traditional Margherita ($15) to White Pesto with mozzarella, ricotta and pesto ($16). The distinctive and painstaking beverage program shines with a section entitled Letty’s Libations, a rotating, seasonal cocktail menu featuring The Cheech Marin made with St. George Terroir Gin and Bruto Americano, sweet vermouth, and lapsang tea ($13) while the OVC is made with sage-infused Boardroom Spirits vodka, Aperol, lemon, Peychaud’s Bitters, grapefruit oleo saccharum ($12). Cocktail enthusiasts can find familiar and classic flavors in the Clover Club ($12), Penicillin ($12), and Brooklyn ($14). “Dan, Matt and I created Letty’s Tavern to be a favorite spot for the neighborhood and beyond that continues to surprise with unparalleled hospitality, sophisticated, approachable fare and a knockout bever-

age program bringing a true cocktail culture to Kennett Square,” said Jacob Short, one of the owners of 4AM Hospitality. The renovated dining room peeled back layers of dated décor and is now a fresh take on historic interiors with soft gray walls offset by charcoal accented crown molding. Natural light floods in through the large State Street-facing bay windows while the gray drapes soften the edges. The black matte and bronze wall scones balance industrial and traditional notes offset by touches of Americana and whimsy from Normal Rockwell reproductions throughout the dining room and bar. The bar is a contrast in warm wood tones and cool grays echoed from the dining room. A vintage phone booth is tucked in a corner with an even older crank phone around the corner at the restroom entrance. Upon closer inspection, brand elements of Saucey’s, 4AM Hospitality’s pizza concept in West Chester, can be found in and around the bar.

Photo courtesy Rawques Media

4AM Hospitality founders Dan Daley, Matt Killion and Jacob Short outside Letty’s Tavern at 201 State Street in Kennett Square.

Operating hours are 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. each Sunday to Wednesday, and 11 a.m. to 12 a.m. Thursday to Saturday.

Letty’s Bottle Shop is open Monday to Thursday from 1 p.m. to 8 p.m. and Friday to Sunday from noon to 10 p.m.

CHESTER COUNTY PRESS

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 21, 2021

Chester County Press

Obituaries THEODORE MARSHALL, IV Theodore Marshall, IV, 36, of Oxford, passed away at home on April 12. Born in West Chester, he was the son of Debra Thomas Marshall of Oxford and the late Theodore Marshall, III. Theodore was a graduate of Oxford Area High School as part of the Class of 2002. He was employed with the Moccasin Run Golf Club in Atglen and Wyncote Golf Club in Oxford. Theodore enjoyed making homemade wine, walking, pencil painting, barbecuing, and landscaping. He especially enjoyed helping his grandmother. He is survived by his mother; maternal grandmother, Virginia Thomas of Oxford; paternal grandmother, Cookie Thomas Barnes of Bel Air, Md.; and his aunts and uncles. Services were held on April 19 at the Edward L. Collins, Jr. Funeral Home, Inc. in Oxford. Interment is private. In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be made to the funeral home to offset funeral costs. Arrangements are being handled by the Edward L. Collins, Jr. Funeral Home, Inc. in Oxford. Online condolences may be made at www.elcollinsfuneralhome.com.

BARBARA ANN STANZIOLA The Stanziola family’s matriarch, Barbara Ann Stanziola, passed away into the loving arms of her Lord and savior Jesus Christ on April 12, after a long battle with Bulbar Palsy (ALS). Born in September of 1947 in Baltimore, Md., she grew up in Oxford and graduated from Oxford Area High School in 1966. Barbara is survived by her husband of 47 years, Robert Stanziola of Hilton Head, S.C., and her four children, Darrell Steffy (Joan) of Oxford, Mark Steffy (Lisa) of Dunshore, Pa., Michael Stanziola (Jillian) of Exton, Pa., and Kimberly Castellane (Neil) of Hilton Head, S.C. In addition, she is survived by six grandchildren, eight

great-grandchildren, and her three sisters, Phyllis Tester (Herb) of The Villages, Fla., Jacqueline Benham of Charlestown, Md., and Dee Weigel of Nottingham. She was preceded in death by her father, Elwood Crothers of Oxford, her mother, Edna Weigel of Oxford, and her stepfather, Harry Weigel of Oxford. Barbara’s career involved modeling, homemaker, and bridal consultant. She loved to serve the Lord by opening up her home for Bible studies, hosting missionaries, singing in the church choir and volunteering in nursing homes. A celebration of life service will take place at Keith Funeral Home in Hilton Head, S.C. on Thursday, April 22 at 7 p.m. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Grace Community Church, 450 Spanish Wells Rd, Hilton Head Island, S.C. 29926.

Obituary submissions

appear on the Wednesday after they are received with a Monday 5pm deadline. They are also posted on www.chestercounty.com. Photos should be sent as .jpeg attachments

The Chester County Press publishes obituaries free of charge for funeral homes with active adver-

tising accounts only. Others with a connection to southern Chester County are charged a modest fee. Obituaries

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

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 21, 2021

CHESTER COUNTY PRESS

Chester County Press

Local News Crime Victims’ Center of Chester County plans Candlelight Vigil Memorial Service for April 22 The Crime Victims’ Center of Chester County) will be holding the annual Candlelight Vigil Memorial Service on April 22. The event will be held via Zoom and will start at 7 p.m. Although the event is not being held in person, participants will come together virtually to remember those who have been lost to violent crime and law enforcement officers fallen in the line of duty over the years in Chester County. Last year, the difficult decision was made to cancel the vigil, and this year it is being held virtually as residents continue to be vaccinated. The hope is that people will

Flag retirement ceremony

Courtesy photo

Everyone is invited to visit the Crime Victims’ Memorial located in Struble Park in Downingtown.

The Kennett and Po-Mar-Lin fire companies assisted VFW Post 5467 in a flag retirement ceremony on April 18. Cub Scout Pack 136 helped the veterans dispose of the flags. Organizers thanked everyone who participated in or attended the emotional event. The VFW’s Board of Directors was credited for making this a great day for those who attended.

be able to join each other in Crime Victims’ Memorial person next year. Everyone located in Struble Park in is invited to visit the Downingtown.

Chester County launches Teen Talk Line Chester County teens now have a new tool for mental health and wellness. A Teen Talk Line, targeting 12- to 18-year-olds, is now taking calls and texts to support young people who are feeling overwhelmed, stressed, sad, isolated, or confused. The National Institute of Mental Health notes that young people may be more vulnerable to stress and developing mental health conditions, such as anxiety or depression. Teen Talk and Text lines are effective tools in supporting youth across the country. Chester County’s Teen Talk Line is contracted through the county’s office of Mental Health and will be provided by Access Services, a non-profit organization that runs other mental health programs, including a Teen Talk Line in Montgomery County. The line will operate after school and in the early evening hours, which are the peak hours for family and other conflicts. Individuals who call after hours will

receive an automated message and will be directed to the Valley Creek Crisis Intervention Center in Exton for immediate support when needed. “We’re very pleased to offer a service that provides a safe space for kids to reach out and connect with others in a supportive, confidential way; to share their concerns and receive peer and professional support. As we expand resources for early intervention, this program fosters an opportunity for positive experiences, promotes growth, self-awareness, and reduces stigma,” said Candy Craig, Chester County deputy administrator for mental health. Connecting with teens around concerns and stressors while they are still manageable can support skill building, resilience and an understanding of community resources. Supervised call-takers are trained to apply active listening skills via phone and text, to recognize risks,

Courtesy photo

Chester County teens now have a new tool for mental health and wellness. A Teen Talk Line, targeting 12- to 18-year-olds, is now taking calls and texts to support young people.

coping strategies and problem solving, among other engagement techniques and competencies. Chester County’s Teen Talk Line will work with Valley Creek Crisis Intervention Center to ensure seamless referral to mobile crisis for youth in need of immediate or higher-level support. In addition, the program will reach out to schools and community organizations to support virtual host events

and to support the Teen Talk Line. The call center, which is live from 3 to 7 p.m. will use two numbers: The call line is 855-852-TEEN (8336) and the text line is 484-362-9515. For more information, please visit the Access Services website at accesservices.org or contact Kerri Hoogenhuis the assistant director of peer support and teen talk lines at access services at KHoogenhuis@ accessservcies.org.

Obituaries

RONALD KENNETH AMENT Ronald Kenneth Ament, affectionately known as Ron, peacefully made his transition from this life after a short illness while surrounded by his family on April 11. He was 90. Ron leaves to mourn a loving wife, Joyce Hall Ament, and two daughters, Sonya Lynn Ament of Coatesville, Pa., and Sharon Lea Hall (and husband Steve) of Rockville, Md. He is also survived by two grandchildren, Stacie Hall Morabito (and husband Richie) and Jonathan Hall (and fiance Danielle Baughman), all of Rockville, Md. He was born in West Grove to Leon and Ethel Ament on Aug. 27, 1930. Ron graduated from Avon Grove High School in June 1949. He received many awards in sports in high school and to this day a photo and plaque for his most outstanding athlete award remains on the wall at Avon Grove. As a young boy, Ron attended West Grove United Methodist Church. Ron was a proud veteran who served the country from 1951 to 1955 in the U.S. Navy. He was an aviation machinist second class. His home base was Brunswich, ME. Serving in the Navy allowed Ron to see the world. In June of 1959, Ron graduated (Dean’s List) from Lycoming College in Williamsport, Pa. In June of 1962, Ron graduated with honors from the University of North Carolina, as a biology and science major. Ron was employed by NIH (The National Institutes Of Health) in Bethesda, Md. He became a captain in the United States Public Health Service and retired after 30 years.

He loved flying planes. He was a certified flight instructor and commercial pilot. He owned three planes and flew all over the country. His love of horses allowed him to be an owner and trainer of standard breed pacers (harness racing). He raced horses at several race tracks throughout Pennsylvania and Maryland. Ron was a nationally ranked tennis player and was ranked number-one in the senior division of the Middle Atlantic Tennis Association. Ron loved animals, especially horses and his dogs. He left behind three horses and his faithful lab, Chessie. Ron truly loved his farm on Creek Road, where he lived for almost 40 years. Ron often went to Walt Disney World in Florida to vacation. He also enjoyed going to Hawaii on two separate occasions. He will be fondly remembered by his wife’s three daughters, Lolita and Desiree Hall of Frederick, Md. and Justine Hall of New York. Ron will be greatly missed by his animal caretaker Delores (Dee) Winters of New London, Pa. and his best friend of over 50 years, Norman (Norm) Fitz, who was known to Lynn and Sharon as Uncle Norman. Awaiting him in heaven besides his parents are his sister Margaret (Peg) DiCristofaro and a former extraordinary wife of 57 years, Patricia (Patty) Kavanagh Ament. Ron lived a full and good life. He accepted Jesus Christ as his Savior before departing this world. His service and burial will be private. In lieu of flowers. A contribution may be made to the Brandywine Valley SPCA, 1212 Phoenixville Pike, West Chester, Pa. 19380. To view his online tribute, and to share a memory with his family, please visit www.kuzoandfoulkfh.com.

Planning Committee now working on West Grove Memorial Day Parade for 2022 Out of an abundance of caution, the planning committee has decided that the 23rd annual West Grove Memorial Day Parade is cancelled for 2021. The committee expressed its regret at having to cancel this year’s event, scheduled for Saturday, May 29, in a statement issued this week. This cancellation is due to the safety concerns related to the COVID-19 pandemic. “While this decision is disappointing, the planning committee is acting with great concern for the well being of the parade staff, borough employees, police and first responders, parade participants, spectators, and sponsors,” the statement said. “Memorial Day is a day where we honor those heroes who have made the ultimate sacrifice in service to this country.”

Obituaries

BETTY BENDER Betty (Fiedler) Bender, a resident of Kennett Township, passed away on April 14 at the Pocopson Home. She was 96. She was born on July 20, 1924. Mrs. Bender was the wife of the late Paul F. Bender and the mother of Bruce Bender, Neal Bender, (late) Hugh Bender, Lynne Lynch (David) and Joan Bender (Michael O’Shea). She was the grandmother of Olivia Lynch, Mark O’Shea and Theresa O’Shea and the late Erin Lynch. All services will be private. Arrangements are being handled by the Kuzo Funeral Home of Kennett Square. Please visit Mrs. Bender’s online memorial by going to www.kuzoandfoulkfh.com.

CHESTER COUNTY PRESS

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 21, 2021

Chester County Press

Local News County Commissioners appoint Karen Barsoum as director of Chester County Voter Services Chester County Commissioners Marian Moskowitz, Josh Maxwell and Michelle Kichline recently announced the appointment of Karen Barsoum as director of Chester County’s Department of Voter Services. Barsoum brings to Chester County Voter Services more than 10 years of experience working n municipal government, including seven years as assistant director of election services for the County of Berks. In that role, she played a key part in the research,

procurement and implementation of a new $4.5 million voting system for the 2020 primary and general elections, as well as the administration of, and public outreach and education on the new mail-in voting system for the 2020 elections. In addition, Barsoum reviewed federal, state and local legislation for its potential impact on the conduct of elections; conducted poll worker recruitment and training; managed polling place research, changes and agreements; and administered voter registration for the County of Berks

(270,000-plus registered voters). Prior to her career at the County of Berks, Barsoum served as confidential secretary and events coordinator for the City of Reading managing director’s office. She has also held positions with Twin Valley School District and with West Chesterbased Quality Medical Specialists. Barsoum is a native of the Netherlands, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in commercial arts. She relocated to Pennsylvania Karen Barsoum, the new director of Chester County Voter Services. in 2002.

Courtesy photo

Legals PUBLIC NOTICE

NOTICE: The London Grove Township Zoning Hearing Board will conduct a public hearing on, Thursday, May 6, 2021 at 7:00 p.m., in the London Grove Township Building, 372 Rose Hill Road, West Grove, PA for the following purpose: 2148 Gap Newport Pike- To hear the appeal of Eric Bloch for a special exception to build a pole barn style garage next to her driveway under section 27-303.F. This property is in the Agricultural Preservation (AP) District. William

Grandizio, Chairman Zoning Hearing Board

4p -14-2t

INVITATION TO BID

Southern Chester County School Districts are soliciting a bid for Milk & Beverage items. Bid documents will be available online Wednesday, April 14, 2021 at: https://www.avongrove.org/ departments/food-services Bidding will end at 10:00 a.m. Wednesday, May 12, 2021. Bids should be forwarded by this date/time to: Avon Grove School District Office, Attn:

Seeking RN's/LPN's for private duty case in the Chester Co. area. Send resume to lifelinehh@hotmail.com

Elizabeth Julian, 375 S. Jennersville Road, West Grove, PA 19390. Bids received by the deadline will be publicly reviewed on Wednesday, May 12, 2021 at the Avon Grove Intermediate School, 395 S. Jennersville Road, West Grove, PA 19390. Elizabeth Julian, Avon Grove School District 4p-14-3t

make known the same and all persons indebted to the said decedent to make payment without delay to Gregory P. Timoney, c/o Alfred Rauch, III, Esq., Black & Gerngross, P.C., 1617 JFK Blvd., Suite 1575, Philadelphia, PA 19103, Executor. Black & Gerngross, P.C., 1617 JFK Blvd., Suite 1575, Philadelphia, PA 19103

ESTATE NOTICE

ESTATE OF Joan E. Mackin late of Penn Township, Chester County, Deceased. Letters Testamentary on the estate of the above named Joan E. Mackin having been granted to the undersigned, all persons having claims or demands against the estate of the said decedent are requested to make known the same and all persons indebted to the said decedent to make payment without delay to: R. Scott Mackin, Executor, c/o Attorney:Winifred Moran Sebastian, Esquire, 208 E. Locust Street Address: 208 E. Locust St., P.O. Box 38, Oxford, PA 19363 Phone: 610-932-3838 4p-21-3t

4p-21-3t

PUBLIC NOTICE

Lluna, Inc., hereby gives notice that articles of incorporation have been filed with the Department of State of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, under the provisions of the Pennsylvania Business Corporation Law of 1988, approved December 21, 1988, P.L. 1444,

No. 177, effective October 1, 1989, as amended. The purpose for which the corporation has been organized is HR Technology Software-as-a-Service. Contact Info: Jess Podgajny, CEO, 230 Sugartown Rd, Suite 20 Wayne, PA 19087 4p-21-1t

Classifieds Help Wanted Seasonal & Part-Time Employment Opportunity LGT Public Works Department Are you looking for a Seasonal or Part-Time opportunity in a Township? Are you the type of person who loves diversity in your work day? London Grove Township is now hiring for Seasonal and Part Time Laborers in

our Public Works Department. A Seasonal or Part-Time Public Works Employee is required to have the ability to perform a variety of different tasks including but not limited to manual labor and equipment operation under the direction of the Director of Public Works. All applicants must have a clean criminal record and be available for the hours of 7:00 a.m. through 3:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. Hourly rate is $10.00-$12.00 depending on

experience. Please submit application to London Grove Township Attention: Director of Public Works, 372 Rose Hill Road, West Grove, PA 19390 or admin@ londongrove.org For a complete job description and employment application please visit www.londongrove. org Employment Opportunities page. London Grove Township is an equal opportunity employer. Applications will be accepted until all positions are filled.

ESTATE NOTICE

ESTATE OF Norita R. Timoney aka Norita Rose Timoney, Timoney, Norita R. aka Timoney, Norita Rose late of West Grove, PA. ., Deceased. Letters Testamentary on the estate of the above named having been granted to the undersigned, all persons having claims or demands against the estate of the said decedent are requested to

Come join the Collegium Charter School team in Exton, PA! Instructional Assistants- Full-time and part-time positions available immediately. All grade levels (K-12). Also considering candidates for Learning Support, Autism Support, and Emotional Support classrooms. Very competitive rates! For full-time positions, we offer a generous benefits package including health insurance, dental insurance, 403b retirement plan, and much more! Food Service Assistants/Cashiers- Part-time positions available immediately. Earn extra money, work in a fun environment, and make a difference for students and our school! Previous experience in food service preferred. Interested? Please contact Ariane Patton, HR Recruitment Coordinator (apatton@ccs.us; 610-903-6329)

Andy's Lawn Care Lawn & Field Mowing Aerating & Overseeding Lawn Renovation Seasonal Cleanups Mulching Landscaping Tree & Stump Removal Lot & Land Clearing Grading & Drainage Snow Removal

(610) 274-2273 Office or (610) 721-3119 cell

T L MOVING C SERVICES, LLC A personalized and friendly service specializing in packing and unpacking for house to retirement home moves. We manage your move! www.tlcmovingservicesllc.com Caen Stroud

610-268-3243

See these local businesses and many more on our website Click Directory

Trailer Repair Welding

Truck Acces. Spray Liners

BASHER & SON 610-268-0007 • basherandson.com

Over 40 Years Experience UHAUL

Hitches

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 21, 2021

CHESTER COUNTY PRESS

Chester County Press

Local News OMI receives competitive grant to boost development in Oxford’s downtown The funding is part of Pennsylvania Gov. Tom Wolf’s plan to award $2 million to community organizations impacted by COVID-19 Oxford Mainstreet, Inc. (OMI) has been awarded a highly competitive COVID-19 Relief Supporting Elm and Main Program grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development. The grant totals $50,000 and will help OMI continue its efforts to promote the downtown business district. The grant is supported by Keystone Communities funding, and is intended to assist Elm Street and Main Street organizations that have been economically

impacted by the health crisis. Eligible applicants for the program included designated Keystone Main Street, Keystone Elm Street, or Keystone Communities organizations, 2020 Nationally Accredited Main Street programs, and community development organizations. Applicants were required to employ, and continue to employ, for at least the next year, a paid professional manager or coordinator responsible for the administration of the revitalization strategy and program.

“On behalf of the Oxford Mainstreet Board of Directors, we are thrilled to have received the DCED’s $50,000 grant,” said Ed Herr, the chairman of the board. “We feel that this grant provides more stability for OMI during a time when the large majority of our events have been cancelled. In addition, the grant enables us to assist in funding our Mainstreet Manager, whose efforts are invaluable to us.” Christianna Hannum, the executive director of Oxford Mainstreet added, “We are profoundly grate-

New Winterthur exhibit showcases natureinspired design Collection reveals the root of H. F. duPont's aesthetic Henry Francis du Pont became famous for amassing one of the most important collections of American decorative arts in the world, but his passion for collecting began in boyhood with things such as birds’ nests and seashells. The exhibition “Outside In: Nature-inspired Design” at Winterthur reveals in exciting new ways the evolution of du Pont’s interests and the principles that informed his aesthetic. Opening May 1, as Winterthur Museum, Garden & Library celebrates its 70th anniversary, this partnership with the Delaware Museum of Natural History (DMNH) unites selections from the DMNH collection of natural specimens with objects from Winterthur’s museum and library holdings to demonstrate the powerful connection between nature and the decorative arts. The visually eclectic and immersive Outside In considers how du Pont’s interiors looked to the outside and brought it inside in an aesthetic that has inspired designers ever since. As a child, H. F. du Pont collected birds’ eggs, plants, and other natural objects from the gardens and woods of his home at Winterthur and beyond. The same drive to gather and create beauty with objects

was translated on a grand scale into his world-class garden and remarkable collections of decorative arts. The enduring theme of nature in design is seen in objects with naturalistic elements and objects like shells and minerals. Visitors will see motifs such as flowers and leaves in wallpapers, draperies, and other textiles, inlaid furniture, ceramics, and more. They will also discover how du Pont refined their arrangements according to principles that created a foundation still used by designers today. The exhibition considers his use of color, arrangement, floral design, and spaces that merge the inside with the outside. Organic objects such as ladles made from coconut shells and boxes made from tortoiseshell are included in the exhibition, inspiring visitors to consider current discussions about preservation and conservation of the natural world. Outside In also includes a full

schedule of lectures, workshops, conferences, gallery walks, and more. This exhibition will capture the imagination of visitors of all ages with objects ranging from a hornet’s nest to shells, minerals, and fossils to exquisite cabinetry and shellwork grottos. “In honor of Winterthur’s 70th anniversary, ‘Outside In’ looks at how Winterthur’s mission to inspire has been realized by the ways in which Henry Francis du Pont’s design aesthetic in the house and garden have been ongoing motivation for artists, designers, and visitors in creating unique interiors and objects,” said Carol B. Cadou, the Charles F. Montgomery director and CEO of Winterthur. “This partnership with the Delaware Museum of Natural History has given us the opportunity to examine the collection in new ways and to consider the preservation efforts of nature and its materials both inside and outside at Winterthur.”

Own Your Future

Enroll Now for Fall

admissions@cecil.edu or 410-287-1006 cecil.edu

Courtesy photo

Oxford Mainstreet, Inc. has been awarded a highly competitive state grant to help promote Oxford Borough’s business district.

ful to the DCED for funds. We are dedicated to ity and this funding is a providing these necessary the town of Oxford’s vital- real boost for our efforts.”

Russellville Grange # 91 seeks nominees for Outstanding Community Citizen The Russellville Grange # 91 is looking for an Outstanding Community Citizen. If you have a candidate for this, please send a letter stating what qualifications your candidate has and how they have helped the community.

The letter must be postmarked by May 21. The winning letter writer will be called on June 1 to discuss how to bring your winning candidate to the meeting on June 3 where the candidate will be honored at the Russellville

Grange #91, located one block north of Route 10 on Route 896. Please send your letters to Elizabeth Sharon, 1733 Flint Hill Rd., Landenberg, Pa. 19350. For additional information, call 610-255-5418.

CHESTER COUNTY PRESS

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 21, 2021