Chester County Press 05-20-2020 Edition by Ad Pro Inc.

Chester CountyPRESS

www.chestercounty.com

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

Volume 154, No. 20

INSIDE

KSQ Farmers Market moves to the Creamery of Kennett Square...1B

Wednesday, May 20, 2020

Avon Grove continues to work on new budget

Kennett students PetSeen...5B

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INDEX Opinion.......................7A Obituaries...........2B & 3B

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Classifieds..................6B

Landenberg residents Part 5 in a series What You resolve dispute Need to with PECO over Know About Health tree-trimming error Insurance Your doctor vs. their doctor

School district officials are looking for additional expenditure reductions. Right now, a 3.5 percent tax increase is still possible By Steven Hoffman Staff Writer

Unionville High School seniors honored...6A

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The Avon Grove School Board and district administrators held a committee-of-the-whole budget work session on May 12, the latest in a series of meetings as the school district works on the spending plan for the 2020-2021 school year. Like school districts across Pennsylvania, Avon Grove is grappling with the various impacts that the coronavirus outbreak has had on schools, including the closing of school buildings since mid-March. The crisis has not only altered financial projections for the 20202021 school year, it has already affected revenues and expenditures for the current school year. Dan Carsley, the district’s chief financial officer, offered a thorough review of Avon Grove’s revenues for the current school year, as well as an update on revenue projections for the

2020-2021 school year. As Carsley began his presentation, he commented on the large number of budgetary changes that can be directly attributed to the coronavirus pandemic. “There have been a lot of [budgetary] adjustments since April,” Carsley said. He explained that the district has seen expenses decrease somewhat since schools closed. The school district’s costs for Chester County Intermediate Unit services declined, building maintenance costs are less, and district officials are also negotiating with the transportation companies to work out a deal on those costs. Superintendent Dr. Christopher Marchese noted that while the district has been closed for normal operations, Act 13 legislation passed by the Pennsylvania General Assembly in late March requires school districts to maintain payrolls and Continued on Page 2A

By Frank Lobb

Photo by Richard L. Gaw

As remediation for the fallen tree, PECO has agreed to three considerations for the Crawfords, including carving and preserving a bench seat into the remaining stump of the tree.

By Richard L. Gaw Staff Writer On a recent afternoon, Ryan Crawford pulled into his driveway on Glen Road in Landenberg. Ahead of him was the home he shares with his wife Sarah and their 3-year

old daughter. Fairly modern in design, the home is nestled in the warm surroundings of old trees to the point where it seems it is cloaked in a canopy of peace and serenity near the White Clay Creek Preserve. Continued on Page 4A

Ten-unit townhome project proposed for Toughkenamon By Richard L. Gaw Staff Writer LGB Properties, Inc., a Kennett Square-based real estate management and renovation firm, presented a snapshot of Church Street Mews, a ten-unit townhome project it plans to build in Toughkenamon, at the New Garden Township Board of Supervisors online meeting on May 18. Introducing the project’s overall design concept, attorney Joseph Riper of Riley Riper Hollin & Colagreco said that it will consist of two five-unit

townhome lots -- with a minimum lot size of 2,640 square feet – and be located on the contiguous property commonly referred to as the Brown Derby property on West Baltimore Pike that the company owns. In Oct. 2019, LGB Properties filed a conditional use application with the township that allowed for the re-use of the property, which is now being used as an office, an apartment, a carry-out restaurant and a barber shop. During his presentation, developer Tom Schrier of Building Control Systems

& Services, Inc. told the board that the overall design has been created in at attempt to better the streetscape of the Church Street corridor. “We have pushed the townhomes forward on the lots to allow for vehicular access and parking in the rear, as well as additional on-street parking, sidewalks and an attractive streetscape,” he said. “With the township’s efforts in developing the Toughkenamon Streetscapes & Tr a n s p o r t a t i o n Improvement Plan, we

believe that this project aligns with what the township is envisioning for this area.” Schrier said there are five variances that don’t conform to township laws, one of which limits the construction of townhomes to four-unit groups, which is one short of what the project calls for. “The [current township ordinance laws] allow four townhomes within a group,” he said. “We are seeking to put five in a group, because it allows us to create a looped driveway, Continued on Page 2A

Oxford uses creativity to bring Memorial Day ceremony to the community During the last few months, the Oxford Memorial Day Parade Committee watched the news about the coronavirus outbreak. It became clear, as the weeks went by and Memorial Day drew closer, that the parade would not be able to take place as it had originally been planned. The parade committee is comprised of members of the American Legion, Oxford Borough Mayor Philip Harris, Corporal Scott Brown of the Oxford Police Department, Dr Erin Kauppila, a teacher in the Oxford Area School District, Christine Grove of the Oxford Area Chamber of Commerce, and several Continued on Page 2A

Courtesy photo

Jim Coarse of Moonloop Photography and Oxford Mayor Phil Harris.

In our last article we stressed the importance of recognizing the subtle difference between denying payment for insurance purposes and overruling your doctor for determining the healthcare you need. While this difference may seem subtle, it provides the healthcare insurance industry with its most powerful means of denying the care and coverage we expect from our so-called health insurance. Namely, the claim that their doctor can overrule our doctor for determining the healthcare we need. As with any complex issue, we need to begin the discussion by separating the facts. First, your plan has carefully and deliberately given itself the absolute right to deny payment for essentially any reason it chooses. And, they do it through the contracts they require every in-network doctor, hospital and other healthcare provider to sign. We will discuss contracts in a later article, but, rest assured these contracts exist and they give your plan the right to deny payment completely independent of any doctor’s decision on the care you need. Consequently, the opinion of our plan’s doctor has nothing to do with the plan’s right to deny payment. So, why would your plan insist that their denial of coverage is based on their doctor’s disagreement with what your own doctor is prescribing? Because it causes you and me to fight the wrong war. In essence, it has us arguing our doctor’s opinion vs their doctor’s opinion where the merits of the dispute are lost in a fog of time and technical complexity, i.e., they win. Fortunately there is a better way to fight this form of denied coverage. It’s to immediately insist that the only doctor with any legal standing to determine the care we need is our doctor. The bottom line being that the opinion of our plan’s doctor is irrelevant. Case closed! This approach puts us in the right fight. Yes, our plan still has a contractual right to deny payment. But, they have zero right to deny the healthcare we need. A fact our plan desperately wants to keep hidden, as well as one that forms the basis for the subtle difference referenced above. Because, tucked away in the same contracts that give our plan an absolute right to deny payment for insurance purposes, are equally strong provisions guaranteeing we get the very care our doctor is prescribing. The only question allowed by these contracts is whether the care is paid for by the plan or the in-network provider. But, that’s a subject for another article. Frank Lobb, a local resident and business owner, is the author of “How to Refuse Your Hospital Bill.” More information about this topic is available at his website at www. killabill.com, and Mr. Lobb can be contacted at lobbsanalyticalworks@gmail.com.

CHESTER COUNTY PRESS

WEDNESDAY, MAY 20, 2020

Chester County Press

Local News Memorial Day ceremony... Continued from Page 1A

local business owners. They were determined to do something to ensure that military veterans who made the ultimate sacrifice would still be honored in some way—even if the parade couldn’t take place as it usually would on Memorial Day. Harris explained that it is a tradition for Oxford to host a parade through the downtown and then for a memorial ceremony to take place at the Oxford Cemetery. “We were committed to bringing the Memorial Day ceremony to the public,” Harris said. “We must remember and honor those

Townhome project... Continued from Page 1A

which places the parking and vehicles behind the townhomes, creating a better looking streetscape onto Church Street. “If we were to follow the ordinances with groupings four or less, we could do three three packs to get nine units total, but what that would force us to do would be to put the garages on the front and the driveways directly accessing Church Street. It doesn’t create a very visually pleasing streetscape, as you will have all of these cars in front of the townhomes.”

Avon Grove budget... Continued from Page 1A

certain district operations so that education could continue for students. The biggest task during the closure was to transform learning environments from traditional school classrooms to online learning initiatives. As a result, Avon Grove—like all school districts in Pennsylvania— encountered many unforeseen expenses in the area of technology and operations. In a press release issued by the school district, it was noted that, since midMarch, Avon Grove has supplied ChromeBooks to 583 students, Internet hotspots to 63 students, and an additional 53 hotspot units being delivered to students within the next week. The school district’s food services division has prepared and distributed approximately 45,000 meals to the community. These are

Members of the Color Guard with safety masks.

who gave the ultimate sacrifice. We needed to get creative, while following all the COVID-19 safety guidelines.” On two beautiful spring days last week, a memorial ceremony was staged.

Jim Coarse of Moonloop Photography videotaped the ceremony and added still shots. The resulting video will be available on Memorial Day, Monday May 25, on the Oxford Area Chamber of Commerce

Kyle Grasty, a bagpiper, performs.

The developers presented their plan to the township’s Planning Commission in February. “They felt very positive about the layout, the overall proposal and the way it stood, and they said it reflected with the streetscape plan and were excited to see the first project in the area,” Schrier said. As the project moves forward, Riper said that the developers are looking for direction from the board; specifically, whether it is supportive of the plan and whether they are agreeable to the request for zoning relief. Board Chairman Pat Little said that prior to the

board’s voting he would like to hear the comments of the Planning Commission. In other township business, the supervisors passed Resolution No. 825, which extends the real estate tax payment deadline for township residents to Sept. 30. The resolution, authorized by Act 15 of 2020 that was signed into law by Gov. Wolf on April 20 to provide tax relief in light of the COVID-19 emergency disaster declaration, gives municipalities the opportunity to extend and select a deadline date for real estate taxes to be paid. In a conversation he had with township treasurer Lewis Gay, township solicitor

Vince Pompo said that Gay recommended that the end of August or September would be an appropriate deadline for payment. “[Lew] recommended not extending the date to the end of the year, for the reason that it could result in revenue not given back to the township in 2020, but rather in 2021 – that is, if taxpayers waited until the very end of the period in order to pay the face amount of the real estate taxes,” Pompo said. Supervisor David Unger recommended that the deadline be extended to Dec. 31, but the board approved the Sept. 30 date recommended by supervisor Steve

Allaband by a vote of 4 to 1. The board approved the concept for phase one of a three-phase stormwater management project for Laurel Valley Farms on Penn Green Road. Engineer Ron Ragan told the board that the first phase would be to enhance the existing stormwater drainage system on the site, in order to better ensure that stormwater gets to the existing stilling basin on the farm. “Laurel Valley Farms is proposing to put in a fairly substantial system that would collect that water, starting all the way up at the parking lot and continuing to the access to the Starr Road side of the property,

down to the stilling basin in the far northeast corner,” he said. The two remaining phases, Ragan said, will include the installation of a truck wash, and the resurfacing and regarding of areas throughout the farm. He said that the first phase is projected to begin in June, and that the remaining phases would be completed by the end of the year. Allaband said that the township will seek approvals for the second and third phases in the coming months.

just a few examples of initiatives undertaken by the administration, the teachers, and support staff to ensure that students remain engaged in the learning process for the remainder of the school year. Marchese emphasized during the committee-ofthe-whole meeting that Avon Grove will not be operating with a revenue surplus for the 2019-2020 school year just because COVID-19 prompted school buildings to close and curbed many activities that regularly take place. Carsley explained that there remains a great deal of uncertainty regarding both local and state revenues, especially for the 20202021 school year. The administration is scaling back revenue projections for 2020-2021 to be consistent with trends in collected revenues during the Great Recession that occurred in fiscal years of 2009 through 2011, when the percentage of local

real estate taxes collected declined overall as a result of the economic hardships that residents and business owners were facing at the time. The district’s main source of revenue comes from local sources, primarily local property taxes, Carsley noted. He explained that by scaling back revenue projections to the collection levels of 2009 to 2011, the district’s projected revenues decline from about $94.8 million to around $93.1 million. In addition to local revenues, the district also receives a considerable amount of revenues from the state. In the proposed state budget that was released three months ago, state funding for schools was expected to increase slightly. Pennsylvania, like all states, has seen the coronavirus pandemic severely impact its budget. A final state budget for 2020-2021 hasn’t been adopted yet, so school district officials are

uncertain about the level of funding from the state. With projected revenues on the decline, Avon Grove must make spending cuts or face a larger budget shortfall. For the 2020-2021 school year, Avon Grove’s administration has already been at work reducing costs, but projected expenses are still increasing overall year to year. Carsley said that the administration has asked the staff to go back and look at ways to find some further reductions in expenditures. The budget plan for 20202021 currently includes a tax increase of 3.5 percent, which is close to the Act 1 Index limit for Avon Grove for that school year. Marchese said that the administration still believes the best course is to keep the tax increase at 3.5 percent, especially with the uncertainty for what will be required to support the learning environment postCOVID-19. A tax increase at the level of 3.5 percent

would limit the school district’s need to dip further into its cash reserves in support of general school district operations and would also provide protection if revenues are less than projected. Marchese said that while he understands why several school board members have expressed concerns about still increasing taxes by the Act 1 Index limit, there are long-term ramifications to the school district budget that could lead to painful cuts in the future, including possible reductions that have serious impacts on instruction. District officials are, however, continuing to work on reducing expenses for 2020-2021. “You’re asking us to tighten the belts and that is what we’re doing,” Marchese said. School board president Bill Wood noted that an extra budget work session has now been planned for Tuesday, May 26 so that

district officials can continue to work through the various budget issues. This meeting is open to the public and residents can offer public comments in advance and can “attend” the virtual meeting while it takes place. Information about how to submit public comments and participate in the meetings can be found on the board of directors page of the school district’s website at avongrove.org. Recordings of previous meetings are also available on the website. The Avon Grove School Board is on track to adopt a final budget for 2020-2021 at the June 4 school board meeting. Carsley did say, however, that he has had discussions with Marchese about possibly delaying the adoption of a final budget until later in June because there is so much uncertainty about the state budget.

Courtesy photos

Jim Coarse of Moonloop Photography socially distancing while filming speaker Marie Miller of Oxford Area High School.

website (OxfordPA.org), can be viewed on the on Oxford Area School and on social media. In Ware Presbyterian Village District’s Public Access addition, the ceremony community channel and Channel (Armstrong 68).

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

To contact Staff Writer Steven Hoffman, email editor @ chestercounty .com.

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Local News Hazel Shoemaker celebrates 102nd birthday— and surviving second pandemic By Betsy Brewer Brantner Contributing Writer It is momentous enough to celebrate a 102nd birthday, but quite amazing to realize that you have survived not one but two pandemics in your lifetime. For those persons out there wondering if this pandemic will end, Hazel Shoemaker is proof that it will and you can survive. l Shoemaker was one of s 11 children and was actually born in the 1918 Flu Pandemic. Move forward 102 years later, and she is celebrating another birthday and surviving another pandemic. Hazel Shoemaker’s family gathered at her Oxford home on May 1 to celebrate her birthday, but had to do it in the midst of the COVID-19 outbreak. So the usual birthday party and dinner was off limits. Her friends and family decided the safest thing to do would be a drive-by past the home

where she and her family have lived for the last 50 years. Shoemaker’s husband, Mahlon died in 1994. She remembered fondly how he used to call her his “angel face.” And that led to another story. “He was my childhood sweetheart. We met in the fourth grade,” she said. He had been a farmer and then eventually sold his farm to his son, Alan, and went to work for Star Roses. And soon, Mrs. Shoemaker’s love for roses grew, which is evident in front of her home. “I still have my roses, and there is one that is called angel face. It reminds me of him when it blooms every year.” Her daughter, Judy Phillips, applauded her mother for being an independent woman who continued to live in her beautiful home surrounded by roses. Her mother learned to paint at the Oxford Senior Center

Courtesy photo

Mrs. Shoemaker with daughter Judy Phillips and son Alan Shoemaker. Courtesy photo

Mrs. Hazel Shoemaker has survived two pandemics. This photo was taken a few years ago.

in her later years, filling her home with many of those paintings. She also was quite active in line-dancing. Shoemaker, masked and sitting in a chair in the driveway, spoke of recovering from a mini-stroke in February, but her memory was impeccable as she discussed her teaching career. As for her age, she said, “I told my doctor I’m old, but I don’t have to act old.” She spoke of her love of teaching. “From the time I was five years-old, I wanted to be a teacher. And all those years, I loved it. I never wanted to do anything else,” she said. You could tell she was smiling underneath her mask as she remembered her years as a teacher in the Oxford Area School District. As family members, also masked, surrounding her and ushered her to a better spot in her driveway, to see the honking cars, she checked the time to make sure she hadn’t missed her surprise. She sat outside in her driveway to view the well-wishers honkPhoto by Betsy Brewer Brantner ing as they drove by her Mrs. Shoemaker and daughter Judy Phillips waiting for house. And judging by the birthday surprise. balloon-bedecked cars, she

was still remembered by many. Her daughter spoke highly of her mother saying, “My mother was always a loving, caring person. And people have always loved her.” Her daughter, Judy followed in her mother’s footsteps teaching third grade as well, and also continuing the tradition of growing roses. So for all those wondering if there is life after a pandemic, Hazel Shoemaker is Photo by Betsy Brewer Brantner here to tell you, “Yes, there Mrs. Shoemaker waving at drive-by birthday bash. is!”

Photo by Betsy Brewer Brantner

Signs along Rt. 472 in front of Mrs. Shoemaker’s house. And yes they honked!

YMCA partners with local organizations to get students connected in Jennersville YMCA, Avon Grove School District and The Garage Youth Center to deliver mobile hotspots for local students With schools closed in Pennsylvania due to the COVID-19 pandemic, some students in the Jennersville area without internet access have had to get resourceful when it comes to completing assignments. Volunteers from the Jennersville YMCA, along with other local Chester County organizations, delivered mobile hotspots – courtesy of AT&T – to these students on Tuesday, May 19. Aaron Karpas, executive director of the Jennersville YMCA, learned about local residents’ lack of internet access through a conversation with Kristin Proto, executive director of West Grove’s Garage Youth Center. Proto saw a group of students huddling outside of local businesses trying to access Wi-Fi to complete school work

– forgetting about social distancing guidelines. Karpas then reached out to a Y member working for the telecommunications company, AT&T. Many would be surprised to realize that families in Chester County are in need of internet access. “The Y’s purpose and cause as an organization is to strengthen communities and help people,” said Karpas. “The Y understands the challenges that keep individuals from reaching their full potential and responds with services and support that help people to be self-reliant, productive and connected to the community.” AT&T had already created a program specifically for students needing internet access during the pandemic. The company donated 250 hot spots,

which will give students free internet access for 60 days. Karpas made one last connection between AT&T and Christopher Marchese, Ed.D., superintendent for the Avon Grove School District who knew of students in the district needing internet access. “The Avon Grove School District is grateful for our partnership with the Jennersville YMCA,” Marchese said. “We always appreciate the opportunity to collaborate on important community initiatives, such as the Wi-Fi hotspot distribution, to ensure we are bridging the gap of internet connectivity. We are very fortunate to have the YMCA as a strong community partner in our district.” The Jennersville Y, Garage Youth Center and the Avon Grove School

District are looking forward to helping local families who they each serve in different ways. “I was thrilled to get a call from Aaron Karpas regarding his work with Avon Grove School District to secure hotspots for our families,” said Proto. “Access and equity, particularly when it comes to educa-

tional resources, has been a concern for The Garage since the schools closed due to Covid-19. With these hotspots, we can ensure that all of our students have internet access, which is essential to their success. We are a grateful partner of the Y and so many amazing organizations in our community.”

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CHESTER COUNTY PRESS

WEDNESDAY, MAY 20, 2020

Chester County Press

Local News Tree-trimming error... Continued from Page 1A

At the foot of his driveway, Crawford paused to inspect the work being done by the Philadelphia Electric Company (PECO) of the Exelon Corporation -- undergoing a tree trimming project that would necessitate the removal of some very old trees along Glen and Indiantown roads, in order to make way for upgraded infrastructure and taller communication poles. Crawford looked up and saw a hole in the sky where a treasured natural heirloom had once been. The giant red oak tree, located 16 feet from the road and estimated to be 160 years old, had been severed down to its basic bones earlier that day, and its limbs lay in tangled heaps at the foot of the driveway. According to the correspondence the Crawfords and their neighbors had received from PECO, the trees that were slated for removal were all identified by a pink ribbon. The giant red oak tree did not have a pink ribbon. It was never marked for removal. On May 11, the Crawfords shared their concerns at the end of their driveway with Scott Neumann, head of external affairs for PECO, Brandon Miller and Andrew Adami of the Davey Resource Group and London Britain Township Supervisors Aileen Parrish and Brian Sachs. “This is really disturbing,” Ryan Crawford said. “I told my wife that it’s like having a wrought iron gate at our entryway that a truck drives

through. You can replace the wrought-iron gate, but you can’t replace a 160-yearold tree. We understand that there are infrastructure needs, but we want to know what’s in the detailed plan and why this beautiful tree got cut.” Both Miller and the Crawfords discussed the layers of correspondence that area residents had received announcing the project, as well as backand-forth missed telephone calls and unanswered emails that had transpired over the last several weeks. At one point in the meeting, Miller handed Ryan Crawford a document that spelled out the details of the tree-trimming project; specifically, what trees had been marked for removal. Crawford said that it was the first time he had seen the document. “My pain point was that at every step of the process, we had asked a lot of detailed questions that couldn’t be answered, which I found troubling,” he said. “There was no justification nor any rhyme or reason as to what trees would be cut. I never saw the piece of paper that specified the trees they will take, the number of trees, the size, the species and why they were doing it.” Neumann said that when a line is being upgraded, it requires the need to follow the latest PECO safety standards; currently, the new standard is that trees need be removed if they are approximately 14 feet or less from the poles. “It’s a safety issue,” Neumann said. “Tree trimming is not only important for reliability, it’s important

for safety. Line work is a difficult job, and people get injured. There has to be a proper clearance so people can safely work. When you think of someone out here during a cold, rainy night fixing your power, that’s why the zone clearance has been created. “It’s expensive, but it’s really imperative for safety purposes.” In a letter sent to the Chester County Press earlier in the week, Sarah Crawford expressed her concern for the impact of large-scale removal of trees by PECO will have. “Such lack of proper assessment and indiscriminate clearing of trees is forever altering the landscape of Landenberg and I fear will negativity impact White Clay Creek,” she wrote. “A substantial amount of lumber has been discarded down the side of the hill to the creek, which I worry will disturb its natural flow and increase sediment levels. I worry that the loss of all these trees will also cause substantial erosion to the hill into the creek.” Sarah Crawford later echoed her sentiments at the driveway meeting on May 11. “We didn’t understand exactly what they were asking us, and we never had someone come here and identify every single tree,” she said. “It was more strong-armed, in the sense that ‘This is what we’re doing, you don’t have a say, and we can do whatever we want.’ “It’s heartbreaking that these trees that have been here for a hundred-plus years, and they have met

Photo by Richard L. Gaw

Ryan and Sarah Crawford of Glen Road in Landenberg, beside the timber remnants of a 160-year-old red oak tree on their property that was mistakenly removed during a tree-trimming project coordinated by the Philadelphia Electric Company (PECO) of the Exelon Corporation along Glen and Indiantown roads.

their demise because of this project.” Parrish said that while London Britain Township does not have the legal authority to stop the PECO project, she said she was surprised at the number of trees it was taking down. “I spoke with the township engineer and he said that at the very least, they need to reseed and mulch and smooth out any damage they have done along our roadsides, and they will need to do new matting on all of the road slopes,” she said. “The township was notified in writing that the project was going to involve tree work, but no one had any idea of the scope of the work, and the extent to which they are cutting.” Both Miller and Neumann apologized to the Crawfords for the miscommunication that led to the damage of the unmarked red oak tree. “I apologize that the com-

munication didn’t go as well as we wanted here,” Neumann said. “Normally, what would happen is that if Mr. Crawford had some issues that he had to discuss this further, we would have a meeting, and we would explore different options. We generally try to make everybody as happy as possible.” On May 12, Ryan Crawford sent an email to Neumann, stating that while the meeting the day before began poorly, I will say that I am pleased it ended after and hour-and-a-half with acknowledgment, apology and pleasantry,” he wrote. In his email, Crawford also responded to Neumann’s request of what PECO could provide as remediation for the fallen red oak tree. Some of the considerations discussed included carving and preserving a bench seat into the remaining stump of the tree; planting two trees at either side of the drive-

way that will not interfere with poles in the future; and ensuring removal and remediation of all down limbs and lumber. On May 15, Neumann met again with the Crawfords, along with Tonia Graham, the manager for the threetrimming project and a third-party landscaper. Neumann and Graham agreed to the Crawford’s suggestions. “I feel a whole lot better about this than I did last Monday, or any time prior,” Ryan Crawford said. “It was unfortunate that we had to get to this point, but everyone was professional, polite and detail oriented in this follow-up meeting. While Sarah and I are appreciative of their efforts to make this right, it’s not going to bring a 160-year-old tree back.” To contact Staff Writer Richard L. Gaw, email rgaw@chestercounty.com.

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Our family is wishing your family safety, happiness, and strength as we all get through this together.

CHESTER COUNTY PRESS

WEDNESDAY, MAY 20, 2020

Chester County Press

Local News Unionville High School administrators and teachers honor the Class of 2020 They coordinated the surprise delivery of more than 300 yard signs to members of the senior class On Monday, May 11, Unionville High School administrators and teachers personally delivered lawn signs made special for the Class of 2020. This was a surprise to the more than 300 members of the UHS senior class. With the need to postpone significant rites of passage including prom, the final athletic season, and senior trips, and with the uncertainty of an in-person graduation ceremony, the

signs are a small gesture to show the UHS Class of 2020 how proud the community is of them. Signs were delivered in partnership with Unionville-Chadds Ford School District transportation in order to cover the 77 square miles of the district and stop at each seniorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s home. The signs were purchased by the school and the PTO as a gift to this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s graduating class. Principal Jimmy Conley,

along with UHS assistant principals, the dean of students, the supervisor of athletics, and a group of teachers all spent the day

participating in the deliveries. The students were excited to receive the signs and see the administrators and teachers.

Courtesy photos

Unionville High School administrators and teachers surprised the students in the Class of 2020 with yard signs congratulating them on their achievements.

In Oxford, people helping people is widespread By Steven Hoffman Staff Writer Oxford resident Eleanor McMullen shared a feel-good story with the Chester County Press about how people have been helping each other in Oxford. Eleanor is 85 years old. Her husband Bob is 90. They will celebrate their 65th anniversary together in August.

When the coronavirus pandemic sent everyone into lockdown in mid-March, handling routine tasks like picking up groceries from the store or medications from the pharmacy became a little more difficult for themâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;and a lot more risky than normal. Eleanor explained that under normal circumstances, she and her husband donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t buy too many groceries at one

time because itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hard to carry them all in to their home and put them all away at one time. One day, a man contacted the McMullens and said heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d heard that they could use some help and would be willing to help pick up their groceries so that they could avoid having to go in to a grocery store. â&#x20AC;&#x153;He came over to see us and we talked for an hour.

He was very nice,â&#x20AC;? Eleanor explained. They learned that the man is married to Kathryn Goodley Cloyd, a member of Oxford Borough Council. Eleanor described Kathryn as â&#x20AC;&#x153;a very lovely personâ&#x20AC;? who has also helped bring groceries and medications to the McMullens. On those occasions, Eleanor said, she has given their helpers a little bit of money so that it can be

used to buy some groceries for someone in the community who needs it. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a way to pay a good deed forward. Eleanor also said that she has been able to call RiteAid in Oxford and one of the helpful employees has been able to gather the few items that the McMullens needed so that they can just be picked up quickly. In Oxford, people helping people is widespread.

Eleanor said that she and her husband have missed going for visits with their friends and neighbors during the quarantine, but they are making the best of it, and they are getting byâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;with a little help from their neighbors in the Oxford community. To contact Staff Writer Steven Hoffman, email editor @ chestercounty .com.

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WEDNESDAY, MAY 20, 2020

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.

Editorial

Give, if you can The number of Americans who are struggling with food insecurity has been soaring during the coronavirus pandemic, according to multiple surveys. Slightly more than 20 percent of U.S. households reported food insecurity last month. That’s a higher percentage than when the country was going through the Great Recession a decade ago, when food insecurity levels were usually around 15 percent. There are millions of children in those households that reported having difficulty securing enough food. When food insecurity is an issue for a family, there are difficult trade-offs to be made. Often, a family will sacrifice other basic needs in order to put food on the table. The economic shutdown that was undertaken to slow the spread of the coronavirus has hit millions of American families hard, and those who have been hit the hardest are those who could afford it the least. Food banks nationwide have reported a sharp increase in demand. To the credit of the American people, there has been an outpouring of support to help those in need. We’ve all seen reports about local, state, and federal efforts to get food to those who need it. Locally, the Chester County Intermediate Unit has been distributing breakfast and lunch to students, just as school districts across Pennsylvania have continued to provide meals to students and families in the community, even as school buildings have been closed. Companies like Giant have made large donations. Wawa and Sheetz, the convenience store rivals, teamed up to help make food donations to Pennsylvanians. Numerous local businesses have been making donations to hospitals and local nonprofits, including some restaurants that have been devastated by the economic shutdowns themselves. Here in southern Chester County, residents are fortunate to have gold standard organizations like the Kennett Area Community Service and the Oxford Area Neighborhood Services Center, both of which have provided thousands of families with assistance to meet their basic needs. These are places where residents can turn when they need help the most. In recent weeks, in order to help families impacted by the economic shutdown, Kennett Area Community Service has partnered with local non-profits to organize the collection and distribution of shelf-stable foods each Wednesday and Thursday at the Kennett YMCA. The United Way of Southern Chester, like the Oxford Area Neighborhood Services Center and the Kennett Area Community Service, has been providing invaluable assistance in meeting the needs of local residents. The United Way of Southern Chester County COVID-19 Response Fund was established to meet the fast-changing needs of nonprofits that are on the front lines when it comes to providing emergency assistance to residents when it’s needed. There’s no doubt that the outpouring of support has helped families during the early weeks of crisis, but the needs are great—more than one in five households are experiencing food insecurity so the needs continue. If you can, make a financial donation to an organization like the United Way of Southern Chester County, the Oxford Area Neighborhood Services Center, or the Kennett Area Community Service.

Opinion Support Ruggieri in the Primary Election Letter to the Editor: This is an election year and I feel safe in writing that it will be unlike any other because of the COVID-19 epidemic. I also feel pretty certain that the election may not be, at this moment, in the forefront of your mind. As you probably know Pennsylvania moved the date of the primary from April 28 to June 2. Another reason why this election will be so unique is that Pennsylvania’s election law has changed as a result of new legislation passed last year. For instance, straightparty voting will no longer be possible and anyone can vote by mail. While recent events have changed the relative importance of the primary I urge you still to vote so that you learn the steps necessary to vote from home if you so choose. This will help Chester County Voters Services test this new system of mail-in balloting. For those of you who want to vote in person, it is important to test out

safety measures that might be needed this coming November if the coronavirus is still an issue. For those of you who watched the election in Wisconsin a few weeks back, it is vital for all of us to learn the mechanics and logistics of voting during a time of social distancing. We will have to learn if polling precincts are still viable and how many workers are willing to show. The primary is a closed one, meaning that only registered Republicans and Democrats can vote in June. Independents will not be able to choose the individual candidates for the general election in November. I encourage you to take a look at all the candidates especially a first timer who is running for the state house, Richard Ruggieri. Born and raised in Chester County, Ruggieri is the candidate for the 13th district which is mostly in southern Chester County and a small segment of Lancaster County. Legislative districts can be confusing to comprehend but if you look at the 13th

District by way of school districts it is all of Oxford, most of Avon Grove and some of Octorara. Upon graduation from high school, Ruggieri joined the Air Force and spent four years in active duty and six years in the reserves. After his service to the country, he went to Penn State University and earned a degree in information science. He remained at the university working for them, then went to Boeing before going to his present job at Barclay’s Bank in the information technology department. While at PSU, he met his future wife Christina and they and their two boys live in London Grove township. If you research Ruggieri at his website (http://ruggieripa13.com/meet-richard/#it) or on Facebook at Richard Ruggieri for PA 13 you will notice his involvement and commitment to the local community, whether it’s his collection effort for local food banks or his alarm over the possible sale of the Chester Water Authority to the private, for-profit Aqua

Water. With one child in public school, he is also keenly aware of what the shutdown has done to the school year and the challenges faced by students, teachers and families. But he is also very alarmed by what the pandemic has done to state finances and the potential impact on everything from healthcare to the state system of universities. When he takes office in January 2021, he promises to focus on three areas: education and job training, property tax reform and the stewardship of natural resources. As I mentioned early on, 2020 will be an atypical election year. Large rallies and door to door visits may not be possible so candidates will have to use somewhat unconventional means to interact with the electorate. I hope you will take the time to learn about all the candidates of all major parties and educate yourself about the pressing issues and the potential approaches to solve them. Eric Schott

Dedicated to nurses everywhere who serve By Marie-Louise Meyers A Prisoner of Illness under cover of darkness and despair, save for the Nurse who seems to care about your body racked with pain, unaware of whether you will live or die or recover your spirit to a state of normalcy again. Who will dare to be by your bedside but the abiding One who brings comfort and a means to find a better ending than was assumed when Covid 19 loomed larger than Life slowly ebbing away in spite of efforts to waylay it. Who is the light-hearted one with the dancing eyes, always smiling above the mask they wear in spite of sensory overload, a direct line to the patient’s heart; who faces the unknown

like it’s their own; who brings glad tidings from Home beyond the world of white and blight, breathing and feeding tubes, bright lights that makes no mention of night, a searchlight to regenerate Faith and Hope, no matter how seemingly far-fetched? Someone to fasten their eyes upon whether drifting off or floating in a kind of numbing broth, a coma induced when abruptly resurrected from the dead. There was always the illumination which fed the possibility they would emerge again, free of restraints. Decisions are made every day of the week by Nurses, free of all ulterior motives. They venture into contagions fearless and brave, bathing patients where germs proliferate. It is as though once a nurse after vigorous training,

is suddenly ordained by a Power from above that can’t be explained to serve no matter the risk to life and limb, but never powerless to control the comfort of the patient. Blameless and free of any ulterior motive other than to serve where there is too much at stake to undertake any hidden schemes. Servants of Wellness, duty-bound in their deepset eyes on the front lines, full of enterprise to restore the health of a Nation beset with a virus they still can’t contain. More conspicuous than Doctors, they usher patients in with stout-hearted bearings, maintained throughout the hospital stay, till they usher out with the same self-assured look we knew you would make it through the worst of the virus.

at times more courageous than Doctors, for the patient is not always prepped, and so much can happen in delivering a baby, but sometimes damed the protocol, the patient can’t wait after all! How many eulogies made to Nurses, only to famous doctors, behind which are enumerable nurses. For every patient, so many nurses in attendance or on shift so that the patient can count on one or the other.

How desperate the straits but never giving up. How they glean patient’s dreams for recovery, thereby giving them Hope supreme, but never letting go for the end for one patient is the beginning The nurses I have known, for another.

The 25th annual Race Against Violence goes virtual The Crime Victims’ Center of Chester County, Inc. (CVC) announced that they are holding the 25th Annual Race Against Violence virtually, and runners and walkers can participate anytime during the entire month of May. The annual 5K and onemile walk benefits The Crime Victims’ Center of Chester County, Inc, which has been providing free supportive services to victims of crime and violence and prevention programming across Chester County for more than four decades. This year’s race is presented by Goldberg, Goldberg & Maloney. CVC’s race committee decided for the first time to the take the event virtual in early April. CVC’s CEO Christine Zaccarelli said,

“We are grateful for the opportunity to take the race virtual this year and excited to celebrate its 25th anniversary. We are hopeful that we will get runners, walkers and others that would like to participate in a creative way from all over the state with this new format.” No matter where you live or how you like to get outside, you can participate and support CVC. There’s even a pay-what-you-want registration fee this year. Joe Myers, the prevention education supervisor and race committee member, came up with the idea to allow supporters to register for any amount they want to participate in this year’s race. CVC recognizes that the financial impact created by the pandemic can look very different from person

to person and didn’t want the registration fee to be a barrier to someone and their family participating in the event. In addition to paying what you want, you can also be creative in how you participate. Participants can run a 5k, take a nature walk, have a marathon hopscotch game or row a 5K. For those that choose to register at $10 or more, they will receive a race logo headband in the mail. Maria Janoski, a member of the CVC Board of Directors and committee member, expressed her thoughts about the race going virtual, saying, “The Race Against Violence combines two of my passions: running and crime victims’ advocacy. Our race committee has worked

really hard to make this a fun event, and this year will be even more memorable because we’re going virtual for the first time. The pandemic may have changed the way in which we do things, but it has not slowed us down or broken our stride.” Interested participants can visit the website at www. cvcofcc.org/race for details, registration and information about how to donate. Another way to show CVC your support is by posting your race photo on their event page on Facebook. The Crime Victims’ Center of Chester County is a nonprofit agency providing free, immediate, and confidential crisis response and compassionate support to children and adults impacted by crime and

violence. We provide assistance through counseling, advocacy, resources, and education. The Center fosters community awareness

and understanding through its comprehensive outreach and prevention programs. To learn more, visit www. cvcofcc.org.

Chester County Press Publisher - Randall S. Lieberman

Steve Hoffman..................................Managing Editor Richard L. Gaw..................................Associate Editor Brenda Butt.........................................Office Manager Tricia Hoadley...........................................Art Director Alan E. Turn...............................Advertising Director Teri Turns................................Advertising Executive Helen E. Warren......................Advertising Executive Amy Lieberman.............Marketing/Public Relations The Chester County Press (USPS 416-500) is published every Wednesday by: AD PRO, Inc., 144 South Jennersville Rd, West Grove, PA 19390 Mailing Address: PO Box 150, Kelton, PA 19346 Phone: 610-869-5553 FAX 610-869-9628 E-mail (editor): editor@chestercounty.com HOURS: Monday- Friday 8am - 4pm, no weekend hours

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CHESTER COUNTY PRESS

WEDNESDAY, MAY 20, 2020

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Text "Telehealth" to 555888 As the coronavirus crisis continues to evolve, “social distancing” remains one of the most effective ways to prevent the disease’s spread. In response, Premier Orthopaedics is now leveraging an investment in technology to offer patients access to our musculoskeletal experts from the comfort of their homes. Patients can schedule a telemedicine appointment to see one of our physicians on a mobile phone, tablet or home computer. This “video visit” service offers a safe, effective, valuable way to maintain care for patients who are immunocompromised or otherwise unable to visit the office. To schedule a telemedicine appointment please call: 610-792-9292 It remains our privilege to be your orthopaedic provider of choice. Should you decide to visit us in person, please know that our offices continue to follow a rigorous infection prevention protocol that includes screening our patients and staff for illness, maintaining social distancing, and aggressively disinfecting our offices and clinics. From all of us at Premier – Thank you and stay safe!

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Chester County Press

In the Spotlight

Section

WEDNESDAY, MAY 20, 2020

KSQ Farmers Market moves to the Creamery of Kennett Square By Richard L. Gaw Staff Writer In many ways, the Genesis Walkway and State Street in Kennett Square is the perfect location for the weekly KSQ Farmers Market. It is centrally located in the borough. People who work nearby can visit a wide variety of vendors during their lunch hour, and those who make the drive there can park right next door in the parking garage. Like many other businesses navigating their way through the COVID19 pandemic, however, the popular market has had to pivot in order to persevere. Beginning May 8, the market and its vendors moved to the Creamery of Kennett Square’s parking lot on 401 Birch Street, as a precautionary measure that allows for more social distancing. “We knew that the State Street location, as much as we love it up there, just wouldn’t allow for that kind of management of public space, because it’s a public sidewalk,” said Ros Fenton, who has been the KSQ Farmers Market manager for the past three years. “As the pandemic hit, we moved into the Kennett Library parking lot, but that wasn’t large enough to go forward with the full season. We were looking for a space for our vendors to park their vehicles and provide them with additional room to set up and safer handling of their products. “The Creamery of Kennett Square has been the perfect location we were looking for.” On May 15, the market featured 11 vendors who showcased an assortment of local fresh-cut flowers, maple syrup, farm-raised vegetables, meats, poultry, breads and baked goods. “All of our vendors have adapted quickly to the changes by creating pre-order systems and safe-handling procedures,” Fenton said. “It’s been amazing to watch these businesses transition so quickly.” To better assure the safe transfer of products and abide with social distancing, safety precautions

Photos by Richard L. Gaw

Elizabeth and Douglas Randolph of Swallow Hill Farm in Cochranville.

were posted throughout the market, including a sign created by the market that encouraged shoppers to pre-order, wear face covering, limit shopping to one customer per household, and condense their time at the market by arriving with a shopping list. To reduce handling, there is no self-service; vendors package customers’ selections for them. Fenton said that the safety guidelines were compiled by looking at recommendations from the Pennsylvania Association of Sustainable Agriculture, the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture and the PA Farm Markets. “Everyone is pooling their resources and putting their information together in order to make markets like this work around the state so small farms and independent food businesses can continue to provide fresh, local foods direct to their communities,” she said. The KSQ Farmers Market will be open every Friday from 3 to 6 p.m. at the Creamery of Kennett Square parking lot at 401 Birch Street, Kennett Square. Free parking is available at 226 East Birch Street, across the street from Braeloch Brewing. Please note that from 3 to 3:30 p.m., the market is reserved for seniors and

Customers can take home fresh-cut flowers from the KSQ Farmers Market.

high-risk customers only. Some vendors accept pre-order only, some have on-site sales only, and others are encouraging pre-orders but also have on-site sales. The KSQ Farmers Market is a program of Historic Kennett Square. To receive a list of weekly vendors and to obtain the KSQ Farmers Market online newsletter, visit historickennettsquare. com. To contact Staff Writer Richard L. Gaw, email rgaw@chestercounty.com.

The KSQ Farmers Market, now at the Creamery of Kennett Square, featured fresh vegetables from the Flying Plow Farm in Rising Sun, Md. on May 15.

CHESTER COUNTY PRESS

WEDNESDAY, MAY 20, 2020

Chester County Press

Obituaries MELVIN B. HARKINS Melvin B. Harkins, 98, of Garden Spot Village, New Holland, Pa., passed away on May 13. He was preceded in death by his wife, Dorothy Renard Harkins, with whom he shared 76 years of marriage. Mel was born in Landenberg, the son of George R. Harkins and Hazel Weaver Harkins. Mel is survived by his daughter, Linda (William) Heineman of Cincinnati, OH; two grandsons, David Heineman of Costa Mesa, CA and John (Amanda) Heineman of Irvine, CA; and a greatgranddaughter, Emma, of Irvine, CA. Before moving to Garden Spot Village in 1998, Mel was a longtime resident of Avondale, where he was very active in community affairs. The Boy Scouts of America, the Avondale Borough Council and the Avon Grove School District were all recipients of Mel’s time and energy. A veteran of World War II, Mel spent his entire professional career as an engineer with the DuPont Company. The family would like to express their deepest thanks to the staff of Springwood Unit at Garden Spot Village for the compassionate care that was given Mel during his stay. The care and support given by Hospice is also greatly appreciated. Memorial contributions may be made in Mel’s name to Garden Spot Village (memo line: Woodshop Renovation and Expansion Project), 433 S. Kinzer Ave., New Holland, PA 17557, or to Hospice & Community Care, P.O. Box 4125, Lancaster, PA 17604. Burial will be private. The Groff-High Funeral Home, New Holland is in charge of arrangements. Online condolences may be posted at www.groffeckenroth.com.

OPAL LEAORA STANLEY ORTEGA Opal Leaora Stanley Ortega, of Oxford, passed away on April 20 at her daughter’s home in Fair Hill, Md. She was 84. Born in North Wilkesboro, NC, Opal was the daughter of the late Wiley Franklin and Inez Bare Stanley. She enjoyed helping others and was a home care assistant to Roy and Gretchen Jackson and Jane Whitehouse Thouron. Opal enjoyed cooking, gardening, caring for others and especially spending time with her grandchildren. She is survived by five children, George S. Ortega, Jr. of Oxford, Gerald L. Ortega (Roseanne) of Lincoln University, Gary W. Ortega of Oxford, Charline P. Ortega of Fair Hill, Md. and Ruben V. Ortega of Oxford; nine grandchildren, Michael J. Speakman, Danielle Y. Speakman, Selena Y. Ortega Marvel, Stephen D. Ortega, Brittany M. Ortega, Rhiannon Adams Reichenbach, Nicholas Leary, Harrison Leary and Jaclyn Ortega; fourteen great-grandchildren and another expected in July; and one great-great grandchild. She was preceded in death by a daughter, Carol Speakman Bove. A Celebration of Life Service will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Addictions & Recovery Center at Bowling Green Brandywine, 1375 Newark Rd., Kennett Square, PA 19348. Arrangements are being handled by the Edward L. Collins, Jr. Funeral Home, Inc., Oxford. Online condolences may be made at www.elcollinsfuneralhome.com.

KATHRYN ANN MCCLAIN Kathryn Ann McClain, 88, of Hockessin, Del., passed away on May 10 at Brackenville Center in Hockessin, Del. She was the wife of the late Allen Sterling McClain, Jr. Born in Lancaster, Pa., she was the daughter of the late Edward and Erma Williams Whyte. Kathryn was employed with Elsmere VA Hospital for 35 years as an LPN. She is survived by three children, James Bowers (Lisza) of Omaha, NE, Gary Bowers of Mesa, AZ and Dennis Bowers (Sharon) of Wilmington, Del.; three grandchildren; two brothers, Lawrence Whyte of Quarryville and Ross Whyte of Pottstown, Pa.; and one sister, Betty Walls of West Grove. She was preceded in death by a daughter, Evalyn Bowers. A Home Going Service will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, 399 Market St., Suite 102, Philadelphia, PA 19106-2117. Funeral arrangements are being handled by Edward L. Collins Funeral Home, Inc., 86 Pine Street, Oxford, Pa 19363. Online condolences may be made at www.elcollinsfuneralhome.com.

Obituary submissions The Chester County Press publishes obituaries, free of charge, for those with a connection to southern Chester County. Obituaries appear on the Wednesday after they are received, space permitting. They also are posted on www.chestercounty.com. Photos should be sent as .jpg attachments to the obituary text. To submit an obituary to the Chester County Press, email the information to: editor@chestercounty.com.

Alleluia When I called, you answered me; you made me bold and stouthearted. Psalm 138:3 The Chester County Press features a dedicated church/religious page that can help you advertise your house of worship and/or business. The page is updated weekly with new scripture. Only $10 Weekly for this space. We are offering a special discount of 25% off each and every help wanted/ classified advertisement to any business that advertises on the PRESS church page.

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CLIFTON WEBB PENNEWELL Clifton Webb Pennewell, of Oxford, formerly of Chester, Pa., passed away on May 11 at Ware Presbyterian Village in Oxford. He was 88. He was the husband of the late Joan E. Pennewell. Born in Delaware, he was the son of the late Harry Wright and Blanche Webb Pennewell. Clifton graduated from Chester High School class of 1950. He was an active member of Sacred Heart Church in Oxford where he served in the Knights of Columbus and Young at Heart. He was a member of the Oxford Area Senior Center. In his free time, he enjoyed woodworking and playing poker with his friends. Clifton retired as a firefighter for the City of Chester after 20 years of service. He was formerly employed with Belmont Iron Works, Eddystone, Pa. for 22 years. He volunteered at Hanley Hose Fire Company for 15 years. He is survived by five step-children, Joseph Klein (Wendy Fox) of Leesburg, VA, Richard Klein of New Castle, Del., Jeffrey Klein of Gill, MA, Christine DeMitis of Havertown, Pa. and Patricia Klein of Florence, MA; eight grandchildren, Scott Klein, Destiny Klein, Stephanie DeMitis, Vincent DeMitis, Johannah Rosenblum, Rebecca Rosenblum, Sarah Rosenblum and Lia Klein; and four great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by a two sisters, Blanche Gawbill and Etta Mae Pennewell. Services are private. In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be made to Sacred Heart Church, ATTN: Young at Heart, 203 Church St., Oxford, PA 19363. Arrangements are being handled by the Edward L. Collins, Jr. Funeral Home, Inc. in Oxford. Online condolences may be made at www.elcollinsfuneralhome.com..elcollinsfuneralhome.com.

ANTHONY D’AMICO Anthony V. D’Amico, Sr., known as “Pop,” passed away peacefully in his home in Toughkenamon surrounded by his loving wife and family. He was 86. Born in Wilmington, Del., he was the son of the late Eugene M. D’Amico, Sr. and Mary F. (Testa) D’Amico. He was a partner at D’Amico Brothers Mushrooms for over 45 years until retiring in 1997. He was a hard worker who was full of life and energy. His infectious smile and golden soul had the profound ability to touch the hearts of everyone who had the pleasure of knowing him. He enjoyed cooking, baking, gardening and especially spending time with his friends having lunch and outings at Delaware Park. Most of all, he cherished the time he spent with his family, whom he loved so dearly. He is survived by his wife, Thelma D’Amico, with whom he shared 57 years of marriage; his son, Anthony V. D’Amico, Jr. (Kathleen), his daughters, Donna D’AmicoLilley (Harry), Mary Belfiore, (Henry); and his six grandchildren, Adrian, Alicia, Brianna, Nicolas, Jenna and Danny. He is also survived by his sister-in-law, Gloria D’Amico of Bear, Del. He was preceded in death by his two brothers, Eugene M. D’Amico, Jr. and Michael F. D’Amico. With heavy hearts and in accordance with current health directives regarding the COVID-19 pandemic, funeral services will be held privately for immediate family members. Arrangements are being handled by the Kuzo Funeral Home in Kennett Square. Please visit the online memorial by going to www.kuzoandfoulkfh.com.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 20, 2020

CHESTER COUNTY PRESS

Chester County Press

Obituaries CAROL HAMMOND

JOHN J. KESSLER, JR.

DIANE EHRLICHMAN

Carol Parrett Hammond, 80, passed away on May, 13 at ManorCare Health Services in Wilmington, Del. after a lengthy illness. She was 80. She previously lived in West Chester and Bethany Beach, Del. She was born on June 30, 1939 in Wilmington, Del. to Ralph Parrett, Sr. and Florence (Veazey) Parrett. She is survived by her brother, Richard Parrett, Sr. (and wife Nancy); sister-in-laws, Joyce Parrett and Betty Parrett; sons, David Hammond (and his wife Patricia) and Brian Hammond (and his wife Rebecca); daughter Diane Hammond Watson (and her husband Jeff); thirteen grandchildren Jamie Hammond Testa, Jodi Hammond, Thomas Hammond, Paige Hammond, Nathaniel Hammond, Paul Hammond, Alexander Hammond, Abigail Hammond, Kevin Cloud, David Cloud (Callee), Scott Cloud (Katie), Kiarra Watson, and Kyle Watson; two great-grandchildren William and Calhoun Cloud; and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by two brothers, Ralph Parrett, Jr. and Robert Parrett. Carol graduated from Unionville High School in 1957 and worked for Chester County Emergency Management Services as a training coordinator in West Chester, Pa. She loved to sew, bake, garden, read, and especially spend time with her grandchildren. She loved taking long walks in Longwood Gardens and spend time at the beach whenever she could. One of her fondest memories was sitting at the bandstand in Bethany Beach. In accordance with current health directives regarding the COVID-19 pandemic, a celebration of life with family will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory may be made to The Alzheimer’s Association, P.O. Box 96011, Washington, DC 20090-6011. To view Carol’s online tribute and to share a memory with her family, please visit www.kuzoandfoulkfh.com.

John Jacob (Jake) Kessler, Jr., of Milton, Del., passed away on May 10 in Milford, Del. He was 85. Born in Pottstown, Pa. on April 26, 1935, he was the son of the late Pearl (Scheffey) and John J. Kessler, Sr. He was a graduate of The Hill School and Bucknell University and was employed for 18 years at FidelityPhiladelphia Trust Company (now Wells Fargo Bank) and for 20 years at Wilmington (DE) Trust Company, retiring in 1997. He continued working part-time for Wilmington Trust Company for six more years. He attended Groome United Methodist Church in Lewes, Del. Jake and his wife were past members of the Penn Coachmen Chapter of Family Motorcoach Association. Jake served as vice president and president. He was a member of Stichter Lodge, #254 F & A.M. in Pottstown and Scottish Rite Valley of Reading. He was a member of Delta Upsilon Fraternity and also a member of and served on various boards of directors including Penn Wynne Civic Association, Chadds Ford Knoll Homeowners Association, Unionville Community Fair, and Creek Falls Farm Homeowners Association where he served as president and treasurer. Jake’s first wife, Janice Hughes Kessler, passed away in 1983. He married Betty Sue Badger Riale in 1988. In addition to his wife, he is survived by daughters, June C. Oppenheim and Kathryn A. Kochan (and her husband Mike); grandchildren Daniel S. Oppenheim (and wife Abby), Corinne Kirkman (and husband Ryan), Elizabeth and Sarah Kochan; and great-grandson Sean Oppenheim. He is additionally survived by his sister, Sallie C. Fischl and niece Nancy K. Zeigler (and her beau Dan Hugos). Jake is preceded in death by Betty’s son, Scott D. Riale. Graveside services will be private at Longwood Cemetery in Kennett Square. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Cancer Society, 1818 Market St, Philadelphia, PA 19103. Arrangements are being handled by the Kuzo Funeral Home, Kennett Square.

Diane Ehrlichman, of Philadelphia, passed away on May 9 at her home. Born in New York City, she was the daughter of the late Leonard J. Ehrlichman and the late Marianne Ehrlichman (nee Reynolds). Diane grew up in Glassboro, New Jersey, where she moved with the family in August 1955, and lived there until she moved back to Manhattan in the late 1960s. Diane lived in Manhattan most of her life, with relatively brief residences in Havre de Grace, Md., and most recently in Philadelphia. Diane began a career in film and sound production in Manhattan, working for a number of production companies before starting her own company in the 1970s. Over the years, Diane worked on many documentaries, Fortune 500 company in-house productions for training and advertising, and numerous television commercials. She was instrumental in the original promotional commercials focused on the Mexican government’s development of the Mayan coastal region, and in the early 1970s, filmed the first commercials promoting Cancun as a premier destination resort. Diane supervised the music on three exceptional documentaries: “Ingrid” (1984), “Marilyn Monroe: Beyond the Legend” (1987), and “Steve McQueen: Man on the Edge” (1990). Diane enjoyed the arts and literature. She read voraciously and prided herself on completing the Sunday New York Times crossword puzzles in ink. Diane enjoyed travel, having visited most of Europe during her life. She was an avid photographer, displaying her photographs of windows, doorways, and unusual architecture from all over Europe. Diane loved her pet dogs, who lived with her for many enjoyable years - especially her pugs - Vito and Carlo, and most recently, her maltipoo, Joey. Diane is survived by her brothers Paul Ehrlichman (Mary) and Richard Ehrlichman (Isabel); her niece Melissa Ehrlichman; her nephews Dr. Paul Ehrlichman (Michaela), Daniel Ehrlichman, and Dr. Richard Ehrlichman (Christina) and their children, Alex and Sidney Grace; and other loving relatives and friends. At her request, services will be private. Donations in Diane’s name and memory may be made to Holy Name Church, Holy Name of Jesus – St. Gregory the Great Parish, Franciscan Friars, 207 West 96th Street, New York, NY 10025. To view her online tribute and to share a memory with her family, please visit www.kuzoandfoulkfh.com. Arrangements are being handled by the Foulk Funeral Home, West Grove.

ROBERT STURDIVANT Robert “Buddy” Sturdivant, 81, of West Grove, passed away on May 13 at Twin Pines Health Care Center. Born in Pulaski, VA, he was the son of the late Robert Sturdivant and the late Maggie Miller Sturdivant. Buddy worked for many years as a janitor at the Pulaski Hospital, Pulaski, VA. He was a member of the Full Gospel Apostolic Church of Kennett Square.

Buddy enjoyed going to church, singing at church, playing the harmonica. going out to eat and being with his family and friends. He is survived by two sisters, Julia Burnett of New Castle, Del. and Nancy Gobble of Abingdon, VA. His service will be held privately. The arrangements are being handled by the Kuzo Funeral Home, Kennett Square. To view his online tribute and to share a memory with his family please visit www.kuzoandfoulkfh.com.

www.keystonefireworks.com Keystone Fireworks Nottingham store is now hiring part-time help for our busy season, positions needed are Greeters, Cashiers, Stockers, and Baggers. Pay starting at $10.00 an hour with time and a half over-time pay over 40 hours. Call 610-467-1888 and ask for Ashley or stop in store for an application.

CHESTER COUNTY PRESS

WEDNESDAY, MAY 20, 2020

Chester County Press

Local News APGFCU scholarship paves the pathway to Handley owning her future The college experience is meant to allow individuals to explore their horizons, take chances to discover who they are, and grow both emotionally and mentally. Gina Handley came to Cecil College as a quiet, on-theshy-side person looking to learn but, more importantly, grow as an individual. In her second year at Cecil College, on the pathway to becoming a nurse, her accomplishments were assisted by scholarships from the Cecil College Foundation and other organizations outside of the institution. This month, Aberdeen Proving Ground Federal Credit Union (APGFCU) announced Handley was among 34 recipients of a scholarship

from the credit union. Each scholarship is worth $2,000. “This scholarship will allow me to be more diligent with my studies since I can focus on my education. I won’t have to worry about picking up extra shifts to afford my tuition,” said Handley. Handley attended North East High School and earned a Certified Nursing Assistant certification from the Cecil County School of Technology. At Cecil College, she worked as a Cecil Ambassador for the Admissions Office and was a member of the Student Leadership Council. “I am in my first year of the nursing program, which is an amazing program. I am planning to continue my

education for a bachelor’s in nursing with interest in the geriatric population,” said Handley. “Starting in 2019, we expanded our annual scholarship program to not only award graduating high school seniors, but also returning students like Gina, those attending trade school, and adults continuing their education,” said Brian Wilcox, Chief Marketing Officer at APGFCU. “We believe a key to economic empowerment is knowledge, and we want to help make education more attainable to the people in our community.” As part of APGFCU’s goal to help all members achieve, prosper and grow, the credit union expanded its scholar-

Delaware County Community College offers free, virtual career development program Have you recently been laid off as a result of COVID-19 closures? Or, are you out of work due to life circumstances, and now want to draft a plan to return to work? Delaware County Community College’s New Choices, a free program currently offered remotely by the College, can help. Starting Tuesday, May

26, over a four-week period, remote/online sessions will be offered to qualifying Pennsylvania residents experiencing unemployment. Join for twice weekly dynamic lessons on resume writing, interview skills and more, in which you will have the opportunity to consult with the instructor and your peers about your career goals while receiving support.

Weekly one-on-one check-ins are available with the instructor, a licensed social worker with a background in counseling, to address your personal and professional needs, while educating you about helpful community resources. For more information, or to enroll, call 610-359-5232, or email newchoices@dccc.edu.

ship program for 2020 to include returning students and adults continuing their education. Applicants were asked to respond to the question, “How would you go about reaching and educating young adults on financial wellness?” The following is Handley’s essay: “Everyone remembers the Aesop Fable ‘The Tortoise and the Hare.’ In the story, the hare challenges the tortoise to a race and loses. The moral of the fable is that one can succeed by doing things slowly and steadily instead of by acting quickly or recklessly. “The same could be said about financial wellness. The lessons that we learned in the beloved fable can easily be applied to educate today’s generation of young adults. The antagonist, the hare, represents what I call the Amazon Prime generation. With the click of a mouse or a tap of a phone, tablet, or other devices, any item can be ordered and delivered within 48 hours. Want to see a full season of your favorite television program? Just download it and binge-watch. Why wait twelve weeks for your program when you can cram it in an eight-hour span. “The hare represents instant gratification. I would assign the young adults to monitor their social activities for a two-week period and identify what choices for their instant gratification

Courtesy photo

Gina Handley

most affected their behavior. “Now the protagonist, the tortoise, represents a more cautious way to invest in satisfaction in the long run. Challenge the young adults to see if they can determine the benefits of a long term savings plan. Using the concept of simple compound interest, you provide the students with two choices, would they rather have $10 provided to them now, or starting with a single penny, double the amount every day for 12 days? The difference between the two amounts is over 100 percent, as the Day 12 amount with compound interest is

$20.48 (Day 11 is $10.24), as opposed to the original offer of $10. “Hopefully, these two examples will show the young adults the value of avoiding instantaneous gratification in lieu of saving for the long run. As a reward to the start of their financial wellness, I recommend that APGFCU could match the initial deposit for opening up their new account - up to $25. Why this reward can easily be accomplished in under 13 days! (The math proves it!). Thus, in the end, the tortoise beats the hare again to the finish line of financial wellness.”

EMS Week May 17-23

STRONGER BECAUSE OF

EMS Providers Chester County Hospital is proud to work alongside our EMS partners whose dedication, bravery and talent inspire us each day. Thank you for your continued partnership in caring for our community and for always answering the call.

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WEDNESDAY, MAY 20, 2020

CHESTER COUNTY PRESS

Chester County Press

Local News ‘Be Seen. Get Adopted.’

Kennett students connect pets to owners – with bandanas By Richard L. Gaw Staff Writer Two years ago, the members of the Kleman family in Landenberg assessed that their then-11-year-old dog Freckles was lonely and needed a companion. They began to search through dog adoption service websites and found one – To Love a Canine Rescue– and found a dog whose photograph was made even more special because of a bright red scarf it was wearing around its collar. It was the scarf that did it for Will Kleman. Soon, the dog came home with the family, and today, that dog is named Ace and is now in charge of being a companion to Freckles, now 13. “I then came up with the idea that if all animals, like Ace, had something that would get them noticed, more people would adopt dogs and cats,” said Kleman, 17, who will be entering his senior year at Kennett High School this fall. Together with his classmates Gavin Seele, 16, and his brother Cooper Seele, 15, Kleman launched the PetSEEN Project in February that creates custom

pet bandanas that pet rescue agencies can use in pet photos in the hopes that a touch of color and pizzazz could lead to increased attention – and hopefully, adoption. The project’s slogan is Be Seen. Get Adopted, and so far, the new organization has made and distributed over 100 bandanas to pet adoption agencies in Pennsylvania, Delaware, New York and Maryland. While Kleman and the Seeles have been marketing their idea, Kleman’s grandmother Sue Jacobs makes each bandana by hand, using various colors of fabric – all of which include the PetSEEN brand name. “We know that some agencies have begun to use our bandanas in their rescue animal photographs, and once the pandemic is over and everything opens back up, we suspect that even more agencies will be using them,” Kleman said. “Hopefully we’ll continue

Courtesy photo

Ace Kleman of Landenberg sports a bandana created by the PetSeen Project, which makes similar bandanas available to pet rescue and adoption agencies.

to get our product into the hands of more agencies, so that more animals can be seen. Ultimately, we’d like to create a one-for-one company, where someone will purchase one of our bandanas, and in turn, we’ll donate a bandana.” If you or a pet adoption agency you know of is looking for additional information about the PetSEEN Project, visit petseenproject on Instagram, or call 302-753-5588. To contact Staff Writer Richard L. Gaw, email rgaw@chestercounty.com.

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CHESTER COUNTY PRESS

WEDNESDAY, MAY 20, 2020

Chester County Press

Local News Delaware County Community College professor wins national awards for teaching excellence Communication studies professor Dr. Susan M. Ward was selected by the Eastern Communication Association (ECA) to receive a 2020 Distinguished Teaching Fellow award, as well as a Past Officersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Award. Dr. Ward would have received the awards inperson at the ECAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s annual convention, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Harboring Innovation,â&#x20AC;? which was scheduled for April 1 to 5, in Baltimore, Maryland. However, because of the coronavirus pandemic, the awards will instead be given in-person March 24-28, 2021 at the ECA convention in Cambridge, Massachusetts. The Distinguished Teaching Fellow Award recognizes an ECA member with a career of at least 10

years of teaching excellence in the field of communication as gauged by student evaluations, peer reviews and citations. The Past Officersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Award is presented annually by the past officers of ECA to an outstanding ECA member who is 10 to 15 years beyond the doctorate, has contributed a significant body of research to the communication discipline, and who possesses a significant record of continuing service to ECA. Dating back to 1910, ECA is the nationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s oldest professional communication association. It consists of scholars, teachers and students of Communication Studies. Ward, who lives in West Chester, was nominated for the awards by colleagues and

by students. â&#x20AC;&#x153;To be named a Distinguished Teaching Fellow is not only an honor, it is a reflection of the numerous educators who invested in me when I was a student. From G.I.F.T.S. (Great Ideas for Teaching Students) sessions to mentoring, I appreciate the ways in which my ECA colleagues contribute to my continued learning about what it means to be a distinguished teacher,â&#x20AC;? Ward said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m privileged to pay it forward by investing in my students. It truly is a privilege to teach them.â&#x20AC;? Wardâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s latest awards are in addition to the Michael and Suzanne Osborn Community College Outstanding Educator Award she received last year from

the National Communication Associationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s (NCA). Ward was the first educator from a Pennsylvania community college to have been a recipient of this award since it was founded in 1994 as the Community College Outstanding Educator Award; and later renamed after educators Michael and Suzanne Osborn. A popular instructor, Dr. Ward teaches public speaking, debate and interpersonal communication. She also serves as the faculty fellow for the Quality Matters program at Delaware County Community College, which trains faculty about how to design effective online courses. Additionally, Ward serves on the NCAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Teaching and Learning

Council and is actively involved in the ECA. Ward is author of a variety of publications, including an article titled, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Not the Same Thing: Considering a Path Forward for Teaching Public Speaking Online,â&#x20AC;? which was published in 2016 in the Review of Communication, and â&#x20AC;&#x153;Transitioning from Essay Writing to Speechwriting: Using PostIt Notes for Invention,â&#x20AC;? Bedford St. Martinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, 2018. A graduate of Regent University, where she received a Ph.D. in communication studies, concentrating in rhetoric and persuasion, Ward also has a master of arts in Communication Studies from West Chester University, and a Bachelor of Arts in Communication

Pennsylvania National Guard working to protect veterans from COVID-19 State Rep. Stephen Barrar (R-Chester/Delaware), chairman of the House Veterans Affairs and Emergency Preparedness Committee (VAEP), held an informational meeting to update the committee on the role and readiness status of Pennsylvaniaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s National Guard in the statewide effort to mitigate the spread of COVID-19. The committee received updates on guard activities from Maj. Gen. Anthony Carrelli, Pennsylvaniaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s adjutant general, with support from Dr. Darrel Jackson, Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (DMVA) chief of Health Care Services

and Andrew Ruscavage, director the DMVAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Bureau of Veterans Homes. â&#x20AC;&#x153;About 1,200 Pennsylvania National Guard members have been activated to assist with the COVID-19 relief effort,â&#x20AC;? said Barrar. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The guardâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s role is broad and varied, and includes helping to supply food banks with meals for Pennsylvania families in need, moving supplies of personal protective equipment (PPE) wherever needed statewide, administering COVID-19 testing at various sites, and helping to provide coverage at nursing care facilities in the southeast region of the Commonwealth where

there are overwhelming staff shortages due to coronavirus-related illness. Given the high rate of illness and deaths in Pennsylvaniaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s nursing care facilities and in our elderly population generally, Barrar and committee members questioned Gen. Carrelli about the impact the virus on Pennsylvania veterans. Maj. Gen. Carrelli updated the committee on the role of the guard in managing the threat to veterans at Pennsylvaniaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s six veteransâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; homes. He told the committee the guard is working to minimize the risk to veterans by separating those who test positive from the rest

of the population and ensur- uted to the virus, with 11 ing proper health and safety more whose cause was still protocols are implemented. undetermined. He said more PPE is needed at all facilities and while the guard is administering tests to veterans they believe are sick, the results are not known for as many as three days â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a lapse that could lead to further spread. 1A P]S ! 1A Carrelli said two of the six veteransâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; homes have cases PePX[PQX[Xch of COVID-19. Both are in <R=P\TT ;P]T the southeast region, which AXbX]V Bd] <3 has the highest concentration of people with the virus. ! ( Recently, 101 veterans in those facilities had tested Call us at positive for the virus, seven were hospitalized, and about 410-658-0488 28 deaths had been attrib-

FAIRVIEW SENIOR APARTMENTS

Courtesy photo

Dr. Susan M. Ward

and Spanish from Southwest Baptist University in Bolivar, Missouri. In May 2013, Ward received the prestigious Christian R. and Mary F. Lindback Distinguished Teaching Award, which recognizes instructors whose efforts extend beyond the classroom and who teach in ways that are intellectually challenging, stimulating and accessible.

LEGALS PUBLIC NOTICE

AT&T proposes to construct a 42â&#x20AC;&#x2122; telephone pole at Goshen Road & Route 100, West Chester, PA (20200602). Interested parties may contact Scott Horn (856-809-1202) (1012 Industrial Dr., West Berlin, NJ 08091) with comments regarding potential effects on historic properties. 5p-20-1t

NON-PROFIT INCORPORATION NOTICE

Freedom Thru Christ PA has been incorporated under the provisions of the PA Nonprofit Corporation Law of 1988. L. Theodore Hoppe, Jr., Attorney at Law, 2 S. Orange St., (215), Media, PA 19063 5p-20-1t

NOTICE OF DISSOLUTION

Notice is hereby given that as of November 30th, 2018, closing Artisans Gallery & CafĂŠ located at 2344 Bridge Street Phoenixville, PA 19460. 5p-20-1t

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CHESTER COUNTY PRESS

Chester County Press

Local News Local Girl Scouts remain resolute in their service to the community The coronavirus pandemic has not deterred local Girl Scouts from finding ways to serve their community. In addition to having virtual meetings and working on various badges, the Girl Scouts have been providing community service in a variety of appropriate avenues to help their neighbors. Mariel Di Natale from Unionville High School Senior Troop 4711 has, in conjunction with her fellow students at the Love to Sew Studio, sewn over 4,000 masks that were distributed throughout the community. BrownieTroop 4348 from Unionville Elementary made masks, especially for Pocopson Home. Junior Troop 4241 from Chadds Ford and Cadette Troop from Patton Middle made masks for DuPont Children’s Hospital and organized a food drive to donate to KACS. Numerous other Girl Scout troops have written

and drawn pictures and made paper flower bouquets to send to those in senior citizen facilities, organized food drives in their neighborhood, and planned a clean-up your neighborhood family event. Some Girl Scout troops have made posters of thanks and encouragement for local health facilities. Suzy Knightly, the cookie manager for the Brandywine Valley Girl Scout Service Unit, and her two daughters managed to complete the community service project, “Operation Cookie Drop.” They packed and mailed thousands of cookies overseas to military personnel in Iraq and Afghanistan and other areas where military personnel serve who do not have access to Girl Scout cookies. The cookies were donated by the UnionvilleChadds Ford and Kennett area community and thanks to the magnanimous financial support from Chatham

Financial, the cost of mailing the 52 large cases of 56 boxes in each carton successfully reached the heroes abroad. “Operation Hometown Heroes” was significantly expanded and Knightly delivered Girl Scout Cookies to Chester County Hospital and Jennersville Hospital, the Pennsylvania State Police at Avondale Barracks, Longwood, Kennett, and Po Mar Lin Fire Companies, the Delaware National Guard, Kennet Friends home, and the Kendal-Crosslands senior communities. Local Post Office workers and other non-profit organizations were also recipients of Girl Scouts Cookies. All the above activities were accomplished with social distancing and proper protective equipment utilized. Karen D’Agusto, the service unit manager for the Brandywine Valley Service Unit which provides the Girl Scout experience to the school districts in Kennett and Unionville, is extremely proud of the commitment and fortitude of the Girl Scouts leaders and the Girl Scouts as they truly embody the courage, conCourtesy photos fidence, and character of Staff members at the Jennersville Hospital display their Girl Scout cookies from the Girl Scout experience. Brandywine Valley Girl Scout Service Unit.

Mariel DiNatale from Unionville High School and a senior Girl Scout Troop 4711, makes thousands of masks, along with other LOVE to SEW Studio students, for numerous local health care facilities.

Girl Scout Emma Marcotte is pictured with the biweekly food collections from Girl Scout Junior Troop 4241 (Chadds Ford Elementary) and Girl Scout Cadette troop 4019 (Patton Middle School).

Shelby Knightly, a senior at Avon Grove High School and a Girl Scout Ambassador Troop 41824, packs the cookies into large cartons for “Operation Cookie Drop.”

PennDOT to resume construction on project to rehabilitate seven bridges in Chester and Bucks counties The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) has announced that construction has resumed on projects to rehabilitate seven bridges in Bucks and Chester counties. Work on these projects will be in accordance with Centers for Disease Control and state Department of Health guidance as well as a project-specific COVID19 safety plan, which will include protocols for social distancing, use of face coverings, personal and job-site cleaning protocols, management of entries to the job site, and relevant training. Beginning Monday, May 18, through early-July, construction will resume on the bridge carrying Route 841 (Chatham Road) Bridge over Doe Run in West Marlborough Township, Chester County. Due to the nature of construction, Chatham Road

will remain to be closed and detoured between Springdell Road and Route 82 (Doe Run Road) through the length of the rehabilitation project. Chatham Road motorists will be directed to use Route 841 South (Chatham Road), Route 842 East (Clonmell Upland Road), and Route 82 North (Doe Run Road). Local access will be maintained up to the construction zone. PennDOT’s contractor will rehabilitate the bridge with repairs that include encasing the beam ends and sections of the open steel grid deck in reinforced concrete. Built in 1932, and reconstructed in 1974, the bridge is 81 feet long and 23 feet wide. The structure carries an average of 502 vehicles a day. The structure is part of seven bridges in Bucks and Chester counties that PennDOT is repairing under a $4,245,232 project

financed with 100 percent state funds. Structures completed under this project include: • Route 313 (Dublin Pike/Swamp Road) over Deep Run in Hilltown and Bedminster townships, Bucks County; • Butler Avenue over branch of Neshaminy Creek in New Britain Township, Bucks County; • Pughtown Road over French Creek in East Vincent Township, Chester County; and • Route 896 (Newark Road) over Muddy Creek in Upper Oxford Township, Chester County. The other structures included in this bridge rehabilitation project include the following: • Route 926 (Street Road) over Radley Run in Westtown and Thornbury townships, Chester County; and • Two Green Valley Road structures over tributary

of Brandywine Creek in Newlin Township, Chester County. C. Abbonzino Contractors, Inc. of Sewell, N.J., is the general contractor on the bridge improvement project. Work on the entire project is expected to be completed in late 2020. Motorists can check conditions on more than 40,000 roadway miles by visiting www.511PA.com or downloading the 511PA application for iPhone and Android devices. 511PA, which is free and available 24 hours a day, provides traffic delay warnings, weather forecasts, traffic speed information, and access to more than 950 traffic cameras. Follow PennDOT on Twitter at www.twitter. com/511PAPhilly and like the department on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ groups/phillypenndot and Instagram at www.instagram.com/pennsylvaniadot.

The Longwood Fire Company was a recipient of the Operation Hometown Heroes cookie distribution.

CHESTER COUNTY PRESS

WEDNESDAY, MAY 20, 2020

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