Chester County Press 07-12-2023 Edition

Kennett School Board extends superintendent’s contract

By Chris Barber Contributing Writer

The Kennett Consolidated School District Board unanimously approved the extension of Superintendent Dusty Blakey’s contract through the academic year ending in 2029 at its meeting on Monday night.

Blakey had no comment following the vote, but the action was greeted with applause from both the board and the members of the audience at the Mary D.

Lang Kindergarten Center library.

Blakey, 59, came to the district as its eighth superintendent in January of 2020. Six weeks into his tenure, he was faced with the challenges of dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic.

After receiving his undergraduate degree from Morgan State University, Blakey obtained a master’s degree in educational leadership and a doctorate in administration and pub-

lic policy, both from the University of Delaware. In his career he has been a social studies teacher, a wrestling coach and superintendent of the Colonial School District in Delaware.

The board also unanimously approved several resolutions aimed at enhancing the educational programs of the district.

First, Heather Collins, the district’s director of pupil services and supports, requested approval

Genesis plans to downsize in Kennett Square

Company announces that it may sell one or both of its buildings on State Street

Genesis HealthCare, the large employer that played an important role in Kennett Square’s revitalization successes over the last four decades, announced last week that it has plans to downsize operations in the borough, and may sell one or both of the buildings that dominate State Street.

The company said that the ability for workers to do their jobs from remote locations has made it unnecessary to maintain such large corporate offices.

Here is the statement issued by the company:

Dear Kennett Square Community:

Since 1985, Genesis has been a proud member of the Kennett Square community, starting with our founder Michael R. Walker. We have truly valued our longstanding relationship and have been honored to call Kennett Square our home for nearly 40 years.

After several successful years of remote work, we have determined that the space in Kennett Square is too large for our needs. As a result, we have made the difficult decision to downsize our Kennett Square office space. Throughout the month of July, we are initiating a much-needed clean-out of our offices at 101 E. State Street and 128 E. State Street. This initiative will prepare us for a possible sale of one or both of our buildings and subsequent move into a smaller space for departments that need to remain onsite.

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to enter into a three-year contract with Solution Tree of Indiana. The contract with this company provides professional development services like lectures and conferences for the teaching staff and, possibly by request, the school board. The cost for the first year was published on the agenda as $90,387.

Preceding her presentation, several teachers reported on a professional development conference in Minneapolis that 52 of

St. Christopher’s Episcopal Church plans expansion to reach out to community

By Betsy Brewer Brantner Contributing Writer

The St. Christopher’s Episcopal Church in Oxford is planning an expansion of its home at 116 Lancaster Pike. Rev. Dr. Mary Mertz hopes the expansion will help create new interest in the community. Mertz came to St. Christopher’s in 2011 and was aware of how diverse the community is. She had previously taught at Lincoln University and continues to reach out to university. The Lincoln University Choir was invited to perform at the church and after that they have been singing all around the region. “I was looking for a community that cared, a welcoming and inclusive community,” Mertz said “We have always been that. NSC (Neighborhood Services Center) actually started in our basement. We have always been com-

mitted to Oxford and all of the agencies here, like the Lighthouse. A lot of the work we have done is underground. As we came out of the pandemic our mission was outreach, to serve all people that need us.

“We are always striving to engage people and understand how we can be a place that is open for them to engage their spirit without a hook. We want to build a gathering space for those that need it. We want to create a space that all of the community can use.”

Mertz continued, “At St. Christopher’s we are all about being inclusive. We work in partnership with SILO to help the homeless. We provide a place for them to shower. They may be going to a job interview and we open the church house and provide what they need, if it is only a cup of coffee.”

Mertz was aware of the diverse cultures, marginalized people in the

the staff had attended this summer. There they met with other teachers from throughout the nation and said they were inspired by the ideas and problemsolving they participated in while they were there.

Board President Vicki Gehrt voiced approval of staff participating in professional development in dialogue with other educators. She said it moves the educational process forward.

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community, the lowincome, migrant workers, and the LGBTQ community. She said the church welcomes people of all races and ethnic backgrounds.

For those not familiar with the Episcopal Church, she described it as a cross between Roman Catholic and Protestant.

“Our liturgy is similar to the Catholic faith while our preaching may be more protestant,” she explained.

The church recently received a grant from the state, in part as a result of the work by State Sen. Carolyn Comitta. The church will be able to make important safety and security upgrades thanks to $150,000 in state funding.

Comitta believes members of all faith communities deserve an opportunity to gather safely and peacefully. With the funding she secured. St. Christopher’s can upgrade its facilities to help ensure

Patrick Quinlan selected for U.S.A. under-17 national team

In goal: Local hockey sensation aiming for the big time

By Richard L. Gaw Staff Writer

At the conclusion of the last game of every National Hockey League season, the goalie for every Stanley

Cup champion eventually wrestles control of the exceptionally large trophy from his fellow teammates, cradles it like a baby to his chest, and then hoists

Photo

‘This is

future captain speaking’

Photo by Chris Barber The Kennett School Board voted unanimously to extend the contract of Superintendent Dusty Blakey.

Courtesy photo

Sixteen-year-old Patrick Quinlan of Kennett Square was recently selected to play for the U.S.A. National Under-17 Hockey Team.

Superintendent...

Continued from Page 1A

“It trickles down to our kids,” Blakey added.

The second proposal was by communications specialist Nikki Laws for a digital platform called Talking Points.

This platform translates communications between district personnel and families of students who do

Quinlan...

Continued from Page 1A it high above him in celebration, as his teammates follow him around the ice. It is the pinnacle moment of a hockey player’s dream, for kids from the Back Bay in Boston to those skating on frozen lakes in Minnesota and Winnipeg and Manitoba. It is also the dream for a 16-year-old goalie from Kennett Square, and even at this early stage of Patrick Quinlan’s journey to eventually play in the NHL, it is already well within the realm of possibility.

In April, Quinlan became one of only two Pennsylvanians to be selected for this year’s U.S.A. National Under-17 Hockey Team, and along with his parents Kevin and Tobi, he will depart for Plymouth, Mich. in late July for a two-year stint on the team.

‘Patrick had an early instinct for being in the net’

Unlike youngsters in New England and in the

not speak English. Kennett has a high population of Spanish-speaking families, and adoption of the Talking Points will aid messaging, Laws said.

Families may access it by phone, laptop and email, she added.

As listed on the meeting’s agenda, it would cost the district $18,000 per year to retain the Talking Points technology, after the pilot

cold weather states of middle America, Patrick was not born with a hockey stick in his hand, but the wait wasn’t that long.

Raised in Kennett Square, Patrick’s hockey life began at the age of five when he first began to skate at the Upland Country Day School rink, under the tutelage of Kevin, who also started playing hockey there. While Patrick also played youth baseball as a catcher, hockey became an early and immediate love; he learned the mechanics of the game from age 5 through 11 as a member at The Chester County Skating Club before joining Team Philadelphia for one season and two seasons with the Philadelphia Jr. Flyers. In his final season with the Jr. Flyers he turned back 95 percent of the shots fired at him for a goals against average (GAA) of 1.08 per game.

“At the mite level we would give all the kids who wanted to try goalie a chance and Patrick just really seemed to like it,” Kevin said.

For Patrick, learning hockey was far more than

phase is complete.

The third approval was for a digital platform called Class Intercom. It will coordinate public district messaging and information into one location.

Laws said district messages and publicity from a variety of sources now appear on various Internet locations like Instagram, Twitter and Facebook and is somewhat disparate. Class

Intercom will “rein in” those various outlets of news items into one consistent place and protect accuracy and liability, she said.

The cost listed for the first year for Class Intercom on the published agenda was $3,595.

Later, District CFO Mark Tracy announced the district will hold two Act 34 hearings on Aug. 14 for the public to obtain infor-

mation about and comment on the construction of the two new elementary schools: New Garden and Greenwood. The hearings will be held at Mary D. Lang Kindergarten Center Library, and people who live in the Kennett Consolidated School District may attend.

District residents may also offer comments during the meeting and should submit a written request

to reserve time during the public comments. Public comments are to be conducted in accordance with Act 34 requirements.

The hearing on the New Garden school starts at 7 p.m. and will continue until all questions are posed and answered.

The hearing on Greenwood will follow at 8 p.m. or whenever the New Garden meeting is over.

swatting away pucks; it was learning every aspect of the game, which meant frequently being asked by his father to move to forward or be inserted as a defenseman.

“Dr. Jack Cleveland, my coach at Upland, always said, ‘I want my goalie to be the best skater on the team,’” Kevin said. “It’s an old-school mentality, but it stuck with me, so I knew if Patrick was going to play goalie that playing other positions were going to help him.”

After two successful seasons as the goalie for Upland in his 8th and 9th grade years, Patrick transferred to Bishop Kearney in

Rochester, N.Y., where he excelled in the net for the BK Selects, leading the 15 pure team to a quarterfinal finish at the USA Hockey National Championships.

A season highlight came at the prestigious Wendy Dufton Tournament in London, Ontario where he registered five shutouts and helped earn the team the tournament win. In 48 games with the Selects 15 pure squad in the 202223 season, he complied a 1.63 GAA mark that helped lead the team to a 54-14-7 record.

Patrick’s stock continued to rise, not only on the ice but in the eyes of the scouts who were witnessing his

talent. In March, Patrick made it to the final tryouts for the U.S. National Team Development Program’s under-17 team. He was far from alone; Patrick was competing with 20,000 other young hockey players from around the country in

the hopes of earning one of 23 coveted spots on the team.

When the final roster was posted, Patrick found that he was chosen as one of the team’s three goalies.

Pressure cooker of fight or flight

Now in its 26th season, USA Hockey’s National Team Development Program’ (NTDP) Under17 Team plays in the United States Hockey League, the only Tier I junior hockey league in the U.S., against select competition in the North American Hockey League and Minnesota Elite League. Each season, the U-17 Team – which plays its home games at the USA Hockey Arena -- also competes in three international tournaments.

It’s not only a hotbed of competition, it’s an incubator program for college hockey programs, and several former players dot the rosters of Division I teams. In short, it’s a pressurecooker of fight or flight, an atmosphere that is familiar for those who grew up in major hockey regions,

Courtesy Photo

During his two years in the program, Quinlan will be playing a yearly 60-game schedule for the U.S. National Team.

Photo by Richard L. Gaw

Patrick Quinlan with his parents, Kevin and Tobi.

Genesis...

Continued from Page 1A

We thank you for your ongoing support of our organization and we will certainly continue to keep you informed as we move forward.

Genesis operates skilled nursing facilities and assisted and senior living communities throughout much of the U.S., as well

but a slightly foreign one for Patrick, who will be competing in a 60-game schedule against players as much as four years older than him.

“We knew that Patrick was talented, but Kevin and I always asked what it will be like when he plays at the next level,” Tobi said. “He played well for Team Philadelphia, then the Philadelphia Jr. Flyers, and at Upland. Then he attended Bishop Kearney and he played well there, but at each stage there was added pressure.

“At tryouts for the National Team, Patrick was competing against the best 22 goalies in the country in his age range, and it was clear that there was interest but there was a lot of pressure as well. Many of the other players have been followed for many years, but who was this kid from Kennett Square?”

While Kevin was responsible for first introducing his son to the fundamentals of the sport, Patrick has continued to learn under the guidance of his coaches at every level, including Matt Tendler. Known

as short-stay and longterm care services, rehab services, specialized Alzheimer’s care, orthopedic rehabilitation, and dialysis care.

Two years ago, the Borough of Kennett Square purchased the building and property at 600 S. Broad Street from Genesis, and that property is now Kennett Square’s borough hall.

as “The Goalie Doctor,” Tendler accumulated 20 years as an amateur and professional goalie and brings decades of teaching to some of the best up-and-coming goalies in the youth, high school and college ranks.

“In the simplest of terms, Patrick is a competitor,” Tendler said. “He brings a level of commitment and dedication that is few and far between compared with many of his peers. He is a student of the game and loves the technical aspect of the position, but there is a competitive edge that allows him to establish a focus and manage his emotions.

“You put him in any situation and he just wants to be the best. It has helped him stand apart from everyone else. He expects nothing less than his greatest effort, and that has allowed him to get noticed and recognized at the level he is at now.”

Preparing for Michigan

As he prepares for the next two years with the U.S. National Team –where he will average

Ware Presbyterian Village’s Christmas in July craft event returns

Ware Presbyterian Village Auxiliary is once again hosting the Christmas in July craft event. Christmas in July takes place from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, July 15 at The Pavilion at Vista Ridge, 1162 Kensington Lane, Oxford.

It will be indoors, air-conditioned and hand-

about four to five hours of practice a day -- Patrick is involved with a strenuous off-ice training regimen that keeps him in the gym four to five days a week for weight-lifting and cardio work. In an effort to perfect his hand-eye coordination, he practices juggling and dons a sensory reality goaltending mask.

“Instead of driving to a rink, I can literally put on a VR headset and stop pucks in my basement,” he said. “I have two hand controllers that represent my glove and my blocker and I can catch pucks. It’s a tool that has been great for me.”

Patrick won’t be the

icap-accessible with ample parking.

There will be a large variety of crafted items from 40 artisans in the tri-state area, as well as fresh flowers to buy, a silent auction with beautiful items, door prizes and a snack bar with sandwiches for lunch. A food court will have local honey, cheeses and handmade truf-

only Quinlan needing to make the adjustment from Kennett Square to Michigan. Kevin, who recently sold his Logical Living home-delivery produce company, will join with Tobi, a program manager for SoFi Bank who works remotely, at home near the arena.

“Tobi told me that if Patrick is chosen for the U.S. National Team, that we should move out there, and I agreed almost instantly,” Kevin said. “It was an easy and natural decision for us to make. Our son has this great opportunity, and we felt it was important for us to be a part of the journey and to support him.”

fles to buy. The Train Club will have a delightful train display for all to enjoy.

The money raised by the

“Patrick is on the path to reach levels that we all dream about,” Tendler said. “The only person that is going to control his destiny is going to be him, but he has all of the attributes to be a high-level athlete.”

After he completes his two years with the U.S. National Team, Patrick hopes to play at the collegiate level for a major hockey program, and then be drafted by an NHL team. Each of his goals is set one season at a time, but by the time he reaches his early twenties, his ultimate goal is to be wearing the uniform of an NHL team.

“To get to the NHL will take an incredible amount

Auxiliary stays on the Ware campus, providing a number of programs and items for all the residents.

of work, but I have always said that I will do whatever it takes to play in the NHL, and to achieve my goals.

All I can focus on is doing what I can control, and what I can control is putting in 110 percent every single day in order to get better. If I keep doing what I have been doing, I will achieve that goal.

“A lot of what will get me there will be poise, to stay calm and not let anything negative affect me. It’s something that has helped me get to new levels of hockey.”

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

Church expansion...

Continued from Page 1A

stronger safety measures and give additional peace of mind to the worshippers at the church.

Grant funds will be used for an upgraded entryway, protective lighting, stronger doors, windows and new locks. Officer Shakira Greer from the Oxford Police Department worked with Mertz to identify what they needed.

As an Episcopal church, the congregation is known for its inclusivity, particularly as it relates to welcoming the LGBTQ community and performing same-sex weddings.

The funding was awarded through the Pennsylvania Nonprofit Security Grant Fund Program which provides grants to nonprofit organizations that principally serve individuals, groups, or institutions that often face bias or are targets of hate crimes.

Eligible grant projects include a variety of measures to enhance security ranging from equipment and technology upgrades to planning, threat awareness, and response training. While serving as a state representative, Comitta voted for legislation, Act 83 of 2019, that created the program. As a state senator, she has continued to support funding it.

Eligible applicants are included in a bias motivation category for single-bias hate crime incidents as identified by the FBI’s Hate Crime Statistics publication. The categories include race/ethnicity/ancestry, religion, sexual orientation, disability, gender, and gender identity.

Rev. Mertz and David Jenkins, a parishioner who is chairing the project, attended the last Oxford Borough Council meeting to inform officials of their plans.

Jenkins told council they will be removing some of the impervious surface and turn the area into a green space around a labyrinth. The plans also include a

gathering room and an elevator. The church was built in 1961 and needs to be brought up to ADA compliancy. The entire church will be made accessible with the elevator and ADAcompliant bathrooms. There was also a discussion of a handicap accessible wildlife refuge, and columnbarium. Both the labyrinth and columnbarium were discussed at great length. The closest labyrinth is in Quarryville. Mertz said there has been a resurgence of interest in labyrinths in the last few years. They are now found in churches, parks, hospitals, schools and backyards. People walk them to calm their

minds, to heal, to meditate, to pray, to grieve and to ask for guidance. Walking into a labyrinth can be a metaphor for going inside oneself and seeking the presence of the Divine. The labyrinth would also be ADA-compliant and accessible to all.

St. Christopher’s was recently gifted a six-circuit canvas labyrinth which is used during retreats and other parish events.

Building a columbarium was also discussed. A columnbarium is a vault or other structure with recesses in the walls to receive the ashes of the dead. Mertz said those wishing to place their ashes in the columnbarium would

Longwood Gardens appoints Zurn as VP of facilities and capital projects

Longwood Gardens announced the appointment of John Zurn as vice president of facilities and capital projects. In this role, Zurn will oversee a team of more than 60 full-time staff, as well as the construction and maintenance of Longwood facilities, supporting infrastructure and systems, and all capital and operating projects.

A seasoned leader, Zurn comes to Longwood after 11 years as the director of design and construction at the University of Pennsylvania, where he oversaw budgeting, design, engineering, legal, architecture, construction, and measurement and verifi-

cation of capital projects throughout the University.

“With an impressive record of leading crossdisciplinary teams through projects from inception to completion and his extensive experience in facilities maintenance and operations, we’re excited for John to join our team,” said Sharon Loving, Longwood Gardens’ chief horticulture and facilities officer. “After a nationwide search, John’s strong and varied background and his commitment to driving sustainability efforts made him a perfect fit with our mission and our vision for the future.”

As an executive manager, attorney, and engineer,

Zurn’s experiences vary from building rehabilitations to art installations. While at Penn, he managed the development of a master plan for the Morris Arboretum and the award-winning gut rehabilitation of the Richards Medical Research Labs, a National Historic Landmark designed by Louis Kahn.

“It’s an honor to join the exceptional team at Longwood Gardens,” Zurn said. “I look forward to continuing Longwood’s high standards of excellence and its long-standing legacy of innovation.”

Before his tenure at the University of Pennsylvania, Zurn worked as the director

of facilities for Philadelphia Housing Authority where he oversaw housing maintenance and operations for more than 84,000 tenants and managed more than $80 million in capital upgrades and new construction. Though much of his career has focused on infrastructure, Zurn completed five deployments on a nuclear ballistic missile submarine as a commissioned officer in the U.S. Navy.

Zurn arrives as Longwood is in the midst of its most ambitious capital project in a century, Longwood Reimagined: A New Garden Experience. The $250 million project encompasses 17 acres and includes a

32,000-square-foot, stateof-the-art conservatory, a new administration building, and new dining and event spaces. The project is slated for completion in fall 2024.

Zurn is an engaged community member with a passion for serving others.

While at Drinker Biddle & Reath LLP, he represented military veterans seeking disability benefits through the National Veterans’ Legal Services Program pro bono. He is a past trustee of the Union Benevolent Association, and a past director of the Center City Residents Association in Philadelphia.

Zurn holds a Juris Doctor

not have to be member. She also said this would be more affordable and an option for those that need a respectful place for their loved ones.

“We are not a big parish but whenever anyone needs help we immediately respond,” Mertz said. “If we don’t go out into the community, we are not doing our job. I want people to know we are here, we care, and everyone is welcome. Anyone can use our space for meetings, gatherings, or whatever. Right now, we want the entire community to know we are reaching out to them.”

For more information or to contact the church, call 610-932-8134.

from the University of Pennsylvania Law School and a two-year certificate in business and public policy from the Wharton Business School. He holds a master of science equivalent in nuclear engineering from the Naval Nuclear Power School and received his bachelor’s degree in control systems engineering from the U.S. Naval Academy.

Courtesy photo Longwood Gardens announced the appointment of John Zurn as vice president of facilities and capital projects.

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.

Let’s hope for the best

Let’s hope for the best.

Let’s hope that Kennett Square Borough Council’s decision to approve a resolution giving formal notice that the borough will leave the Kennett Fire and EMS Regional Commission, effective December 31, 2023, still leaves room for the Commission to find a path forward, and for the borough’s participation in the cooperative effort to continue.

It’s easy to understand why a municipality like Kennett Square Borough would need to be concerned about fire and EMS costs going up by excessive amounts year after year.

Southern Chester County has a growing population. Southern Chester County has an aging population. The need for fire and EMS services will only increase. The costs of providing those services will also go up, especially as the number of volunteers continues to dwindle. Everyone expects fire departments and ambulance divisions to rely more and more on paid staff because they can’t rely on having a sufficient number of volunteers to meet demand. That equates to increased costs.

Regional cooperation is the way to go—now and in the future—so we hope that the Kennett Fire and EMS Regional Commission can find a solution that’s fair and sustainable for all members.

We also hope for the best as Oxford Mainstreet, Inc. looks to hire a new executive director, and we hope that the organization’s new leader will be the person to oversee the long-delayed opening of the Shoebox Theatre, which has been in the planning stages since 2018. The Shoebox Theatre is phase one of a larger project to complete the reconstruction of the old Oxford Theatre.

As Penn Medicine seeks to acquire the shuttered Brandywine Hospital near Coatesville, we hope that the facility can be utilized in an effective way to provide the inpatient and outpatient care that local residents need the most.

We also hope for the best as Genesis Healthcare looks to sell one and maybe both of the buildings on State Street as part of a downsizing effort—with workers able to do their jobs remotely, the company announced, it no longer needs so much office space in town.

It’s certainly no coincidence that Kennett Square’s remarkable renaissance during the last few decades happened as Michael R. Walker decided to make the borough the home of the corporate headquarters for Genesis and then the company brought and maintained many good-paying jobs to town. Kennett Square has evolved into a diverse, world-class community since 1985. Hopefully, the timing will work out so that a new, large employer will want to call Kennett Square its home and Genesis can sell the buildings to a new owner.

U.S. Rep. Houlahan deserves applause for opposing sending cluster bombs to Ukraine

Letter to the Editor:

I applaud our U.S. Representative Chrissy Houlahan for her stand in opposing the Biden Administration’s decision to send cluster bombs to Ukraine. Though she supports Ukraine’s defense, she is drawing the line at sending outdated weapons that are indiscriminate and dangerous. She knows whereof she speaks. She is the co-chair of the biparti-

san Unexploded Ordinance Demining Caucus (UXO).

I encourage your readers to thank her for her stand.

Additionally, please urge her to reject the House Republicans’ draconian cuts to the State Department Foreign Service Operations budget for 2024, especially the funds for Atrocities Prevention, Reconciliation Programs and the Complex Crises Fund. The slashes to these funds go against the bipartisan budget and debt

ceiling deal.

Peace building is a critical tool for responding to and recovering from crises: Increasing support for peace building initiatives can help prevent sudden outbreaks of violence and heal fractured communities, in turn, reducing the need for humanitarian aid and enables the pursuit of sustainable economic development, climate adaptation, good governance, and the protection of human rights.

Judith Hinds Kennett Square

The writer is a member of the Kennett Square Advocacy Team, one of 145 grassroots teams in 47 states – launched and supported by the Friends Committee on National Legislation which is celebrating is 80th year of bipartisan lobbying on Capitol Hill for a world free of war and the threat of war.

State lawmakers introduce Student Teacher Stipend Program

Pennsylvania State Reps. Danielle Friel Otten, Gina Curry, and Peter Schweyer announced the introduction of legislation that would provide student teaching stipends to help remove financial barriers for aspiring teachers wishing to enter the profession. The House bill is a companion to S.B. 300, introduced in May by State Senators Vincent Hughes, and Ryan Aument.

In the 2021-22 school year, Pennsylvania issued a record-low number of teaching certificates, with teacher compensation being one of the leading factors contributing to the growing teacher shortage crisis. The House legislation (H.B. 1331) aims to address the teacher shortage by providing up to $15,000 for aspiring teachers during their student teaching semesters.

The legislation would establish the Student Teacher Stipend Program, which would provide:

• A $10,000 stipend for individuals enrolled in a teacher preparation program at an institution of higher education in the Commonwealth to complete their student teaching requirement.

• An additional $5,000 stipend for students who complete their student teaching in schools that traditionally don’t have student teachers and schools with high teacher vacancies – an acknowledgement that some schools are being

Chester

hit harder than others.

• A $2,500 stipend for cooperating teachers who agree to mentor student teachers.

“Student teaching is a full-time commitment that often prohibits college students from holding another job during their studentteaching semester,” said Otten. “The prospect of giving up that income, while incurring additional expenses associated with things like commuting and purchasing a work wardrobe, is a significant barrier for prospective teachers in Pennsylvania who are already struggling to afford the cost of a college education and working to cover their living expenses.”

“School districts across Pennsylvania are facing a serious teacher shortage problem, and the difficulty of finding and retaining qualified educators is not only impacting the stability of our education system, it’s also hurting the children who are entitled to receive a quality education,” said Schweyer, majority chair of the House Education Committee. “By compensating student teachers, who cannot work paying jobs while they gain their necessary classroom experiences, we can ease the financial challenges of many aspiring teachers and ensure they are ready to enter the classroom when they graduate.”

“For far too long, teachers have been taken advantage of here in the common-

wealth,” said Curry, who serves on the House Education Committee.

“The best way to build an equitable pipeline of passionate educators is to equip them with the proper resources and compensation. By providing a stipend to student teachers, we are supporting them to stick with this important work. Let’s remember teachers ensure the success of our children. Let’s work to pass this commonsense bill for student teacher stipends.”

“We have a teacher shortage crisis right now across the commonwealth,” Hughes said. “This legislation is simple, and the time is right. Our students need us to support prospective teachers as they work toward one of the most important jobs in the country. I’m happy to see Rep. Otten, Rep. Curry, and Rep. Schweyer introduce a student teacher stipend bill similar to bipartisan legislation Senator Aument and I recently announced. The entire General Assembly needs to work together to move on this issue for our teachers, our students, and the future of our schools.”

For aspiring teachers, student teaching is the culmination of years of hard work in the college classroom. It provides aspiring teachers with the opportunity to gain critical experience in their field while providing a needed service to their community. But for many college students, the 12-week minimum

9-1-1 telecommunicator receives national scholarship

Award recognizes work, commitment and dedication to public service

Speidel

scholarship is awarded to 9-1-1 professionals across the country whose hard work, commitment, and dedication to public service have been exceptional.

BJ Meadowcroft, DES Deputy Director for 9-1-1 Operations, said, “Kate is an excellent example of who people expect to get

when they call 9-1-1 in an emergency – someone reassuring, knowledgeable, and dependable. Everyone on the DES team admires Kate’s professionalism and cheery demeanor. We are very proud of her for this national recognition.”

NENA is a non-profit organization focused on

improving the 9-1-1 service by developing standards for technology and operations, informing policymakers about 9-1-1 issues, and educating 9-1-1 professionals and the public.

The scholarship provides for Speidel’s attendance –plus a $1,000 travel stipend – at NENA 2023, the group’s

requirement presents significant challenges because these semester-long placements are unpaid and often leave students struggling to afford tuition costs and basic living expenses.

Student teachers often need to give up paying jobs that have helped them cover living expenses during other college semesters, forcing many to take on additional debt. By providing student teachers with the resources and compensation they deserve, Pennsylvania can eliminate some of the undue financial burdens that prevent many from pursuing a career in this high-demand field, legislators said.

The proposed legislation would create a Student Teacher Stipend Program within the Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency to provide stipends for students enrolled in an initial teacher certification program. The program would follow the framework of the school-based Mental Health Internship Program enacted in the 2022-23 state budget.

By creating a Student Teacher Stipend Program, Pennsylvania would join states like Colorado, Michigan and Oklahoma, which addressed the teacher shortage crisis by passing similar legislation in a bipartisan manner.

More information on the legislation is available by contacting please Otten’s district office at 484-200-8259.

Katherine

– a Chester County Department of Emergency Services (DES) 9-1-1 telecommunicator since 2019 – was recently named a recipient of the Gold Line Telecommunicator Scholarship by the National Emergency Number Association (NENA). The

County

Courtesy photo Chester County Department of Emergency Services 9-1-1 telecommunicator Kate Speidel, recipient of a National Emergency Number Association scholarship for her hard work, commitment, and dedication to public service.

annual conference and expo in Grapevine, Texas.

Jams and jellies, joy and Jar’d: Local chef spreading it all to the community

By Gabbie Burton

Contributing Writer

Oxford chef Gail Brennan manages to keep passion and excitement in her already unique life and career through a seemingly humble occupation of making jams and jelly.

Brennan lovingly describes her business Jar’d as a “labor of love, fueled by passion.”

Having started selling her creations about four years ago, Brennan’s commitment to her business comes from her lifelong love for cooking. Born and raised in Brooklyn, New York, Brennan’s love for cooking was first inspired at home through her mother.

“She was an amazing cook and I wish at the time when I was younger, I had realized that,” Brennan said. “I knew her food was amazing, but I didn’t pay attention to what she was doing and how she was doing it.”

While cooking has always been her passion, it is not her first career path.

Brennan previously served 20 years in the U.S. Army before graduating from Drexel University with a Culinary Arts degree.

“When I joined the military, I wanted to be a cook,”

Brennan said. “But the time that I had to wait to get in was going to take too long, and I was ready to go in, so I settled for being a mechanic instead.”

While “settling” for being a mechanic might seem a bit unusual, Brennan revealed that was in fact the case. She had no prior experience in mechanics and had never even driven a car before her time in the military. For most, that would seem an intimidating choice; however, Brennan manages to make it feel almost normal.

Eventually, at the time of her retirement, Brennan worked as the Equal Opportunity Advisor for the Ordnance Brigade at Aberdeen Proving Grounds in Maryland which is what brought her to Oxford.

Brennan’s eclectic career and life path may make a small business about jams and jellies seem unexpected but the local community and environment provide an explanation.

“You’re not going to find many people in Brooklyn doing canning,” Brennan said. “It’s bigger out here. I think that’s what got me into it, because of the environment -- the area where I live.”

Brennan makes her products with locally sourced

ingredients whenever possible, a feat again made feasible due to the environment and community.

“I think it’s important, especially when you’re in a small town like this, to support local businesses, as much as you can,” Brennan said.

Brennan cited the Oxford produce auction as a favorite way to accomplish this goal and experiment with new flavor combinations.

“‘I’ll go to the auction and see what I can get in bulk and based on what’s available, that will decide what I come up with,” she said. “It’s an exciting process, and I love it.”

Brennan’s culinary training gives her an edge in understanding flavor profiles and coming up with new exciting combinations. But ultimately, her inspiration in the kitchen comes from a strong creative fearlessness.

“I’m not afraid to experiment with combining things, or how things go together,” Brennan said. “I guess that’s where the inspiration comes from, just being willing to try whatever.”

Additionally, Brennan recognizes the influence and need to stay fresh and exciting in order to promote

customer interest.

“It’s not enough just to make strawberry jam, or just to make peach jam. People are more excited about tomato jalapeno jam,” Brennan said. “They don’t want the norm. They want to be adventurous.”

This fearless approach seems to working for Brennan, her business and her customers.

“That’s the rewarding part, Brennan admitted. “People are excited about what you’re excited about, that means that you’re doing something right.”

Jar’d features unique flavors in the jams such as black garlic bacon, vanilla cantaloupe and blueberry cabernet. Brennan is also expanding her line of wine jellies through a collaboration with The Acadian Wine Company in West

Grove, which will feature their different vintages in jelly form. In addition to the jams and jellies, Jar’d also features baked goods, meat rubs and chili mix.

Brennan’s sells her creations at local markets, craft fairs and events, including the Clover Market in Kennett and most recently at the American Helicopter Museum and Education Center’s Family Fest on June 24.

Brennan shared her perspective on being an artisan in the Chester County community.

“There are a lot of artisans in the community and I think that everyone supports each other in the best way they can,” she stated. “It’s a craft, it’s an art and people are willing to pay

more for that so the community does support you and whatever kind of art you do.”

Ultimately, Brennan continues to focus on the good and further expresses her gratitude to the community and her customers.

“I think what they’re getting out of it is the fact that it’s something new and exciting, something that they would never do for themselves,” Brennan said. “I think they appreciate and understand my passion for what I’m doing and they want to celebrate that with me -- and for me.”

For more information about Jar’d, new flavors and products and a listing of upcoming appearances, follow the business on Facebook.

Jar’d jams uses mostly locally sourced ingredients.

Photos courtesy of Gail Brennan Gail Brennan of Jar’d appears at several artisan festivals throughout southern Chester County and beyond.

KATHERINE WHITTLE TURNER

Katherine Whittle Turner was born on July 4, 1951, and died unexpectedly on her birthday, July 4, 2023. She was 72 years old. She was the daughter of the late Wilson Whittle and the late Elizabeth “Betty” Staller Whittle, and lived her entire life in the Kennett area. She was the adored wife of William J. Turner, and they would have been married for 30 years on Jan. 7, 2024. They’d known each other since they were 10 years old. Katherine is survived by one son, Matthew Grieco and his wife Sherry of Kennett Square, one daughter, Susan Grieco of Lincoln University, and six grandchildren, Jordan, Wilson, and Peyton Grieco and Sydney (Austin), Sabrina, and Logan Rundle. She is also survived by two stepsons, Joshua Turner and his wife Amy Watson (and their boys Wyatt and Nolan) and Benjamin Turner, all of Vinalhaven, Maine; one brother, Jeffrey Whittle and his wife Carolyn of Kennett Square; one niece Leslie Brewer and her husband David (and their three sons) of Kennett Square and one nephew, Scott Whittle and his wife Gina (and their three sons) of West Chester.

Katherine loved animals (sometimes more than people) but for those that she called her friends, she was a fierce one. She would go out of her way to help her friends. Over her lifetime she raised many puppies that were prized by their respective owners. She lived with Bill in Landenberg, on Bucktoe Road in Kennett Square,

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and their most recent home in Bucktoe Hills in Kennett Township. She loved to garden and entertain and was a consummate host. Some of their parties were legendary and always on July 4. When they first arrived at their Landenberg house, they shared stories of their annual “church picnics.” After some initial hesitation, the neighbors quickly learned these picnics included good food, great people, and a lot of fun. Spending time with her family was what she liked best, but the COVID19 era made that difficult. She and Bill sequestered themselves at home and didn’t socialize much. She was looking forward to the summer to have fun with family and friends and to see the world again. Her marriage to Bill was her fourth, and most know her history. She told many that she saved the best for last.

You are invited to visit with Katherine’s family and friends from 9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. on Saturday, July 15 at the Episcopal Church of the Advent, 401 N. Union Street, Kennett Square, Pa. 19348. Her Life Celebration ceremony will follow at 11 a.m. and the family is requesting that attendees wear comfortable spring and summer attire to honor Katherine’s love of bright colors. Interment will follow in the church memorial garden. Contributions in her memory may be made to LaMancha Animal Rescue online at https://www.lamanchaanimalrescue.org/donate.

Arrangements are being handled by her son, Matthew J. Grieco, of Grieco Funeral Home & Crematory, Inc. (484-734-8100). Condolences may be shared at www. griecofunerals.com.

RICHARD J. JENSEN

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Richard J. Jensen on June 24, 2023. He was a devoted husband, loving father, grandfather, and exceptional member of his community. Born Dec. 31, 1950 in Delaware County, Pa., he was the son of Harry F. and Anne T. Jensen.

He graduated from Penncrest High School and received a bachelor of arts degree in history at Widener University. Rich spent his career working in the building industry, his passion, and was respected for his hard work, dedication, and expertise. As a result, he received recognition and many awards from his professional peers.

Rich met the love of his life, Deborah Vosburg, in high school and they were married for 51 incredible years. They were blessed with three children. A dedicated family man, Richard cherished every moment spent with his loved ones. He was a man of integrity, always putting his family’s needs above his own.

Rich was an avid angler, local statesman, and patriot with a true moral compass. He also enjoyed coaching team sports for his children. He was known for his infectious laughter, unique sense of humor, and kind heart.

A steadfast Christian, he attended Chadds Ford Baptist Church since 1990.

Richard is survived by his wife Deborah, his children Richard W. Jensen (Kristen) of Pennsylvania, Bruce Trevor Jensen (Mallory) of South Carolina, and grandchildren Lara Jensen Stapleton (Jacob), Gabriel Jensen, and James Jensen as well as many other family members, friends, and acquaintances who will miss him dearly. The funeral service will be private.

The family would like to thank each person who offered a heartfelt message, thought, and prayer.

In lieu of flowers or gifts, the family would enjoy the sharing of a digital memory on the guestbook.

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

Sappey’s domestic violence bill to protect pets passes House

State Rep. Christina Sappey (D-Chester) recently recognized the PA House's passage of her legislation of H.B. 1210, an animal protection bill she introduced with Rep. Natalie Mihalek (R-Allegheny) that will expand protection from abuse orders to include animals and house pets, ensuring the safety and well-being of both domestic violence victims and their beloved animal companions.

Tragically, abusers often target pets to inflict emotional harm after a domestic violence victim has obtained a PFA order. PFA orders are filed with a judge and are

designed to prevent an abuser from having contact with or any form of abusive behavior toward the victim. Extensive research has shown that when an individual is no longer able to inflict violence or abuse on their victim due to a PFA, they often turn their violent behavior on vulnerable family pets, which further traumatizes victims who are frequently women and children.

“Pets are family members and play an essential role in offering comfort to individuals experiencing abuse,” said Sappey. “It is imperative that we take action to safeguard animals in conjunction with

ANNA MAE NORTON

the well-being of those suffering from domestic violence.

I’m pleased to see the bipartisan support this legislation has received.”

Since its introduction, the legislation has garnered the support of over 70 law enforcement, domestic violence and animal advocacy organizations. Sappey said the widespread backing of the legislation signifies this very real aspect of domestic violence and the need for enhanced protections.

Mihalek reiterated the importance of protecting pets amid domestic violence disputes.

Obituaries

Anna Mae Norton, of Oxford, passed away on June 30, 2023 at Ware Presbyterian Village. She was 95.

She was the wife of James H. Norton, who passed away in 2022, and with whom she shared 39 years of marriage.

Born in Chester County, she was the daughter of the late John B. Reynolds and the late Mary Reynolds Rucker.

Mrs. Norton was a homemaker.

She enjoyed dancing, gardening, music, cooking and being with her family and friends. She was a former member of Manor Presbyterian Church.

She is survived by three sons, Jesse McLimans (Carol) of Coudersport, Pa., Mike McLimans of Milton, Del. and Robert McLaughlin of Ocala, Fla.; three daughters, Deborah Robinson (George) of Downingtown, Donna Alexander (Bob) of Downingtown and Mary Burt (Jack) of Coatesville; one sister, Mabel Myers of Oxford; seven grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

She was predeceased by one grandson, Robert McLaughlin, Jr; one brother, Victor Reynolds and one sister, Esther Clark.

A funeral service was held on July 8 at the Foulk Funeral Home of West Grove. Burial is in Faggs Manor Cemetery, Route 926, Cochranville.

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

“The decision to leave an abusive environment is difficult enough. Making certain that a pet can live free from abuse needs to be part of the PFA system, so it doesn’t further complicate the victim’s decision and also safeguards a loyal part of the family,” Mihalek said. “I want to thank Representative Sappey for working with me on this and seeing it as high as a priority as I do.”

Members of the Humane Society signaled their support for H.B. 1210.

“We urge the PA Senate to support H.B. 1210, recently passed by the House, which

RUTHANN C. HOGG

Ruthann C. Hogg, of Kelton, Pa., passed away on July 4, 2023 while at home. She was 80. She was the wife of Howard C. “Bud” Hogg, with whom she shared 62 years of marriage.

Born in Philadelphia, she was the daughter of the late James M. and Agnes D. Cloud.

Ruthann attended Chadds Ford Baptist Church. She enjoyed spending time with family, especially her grandchildren.

She is survived by her husband; one son, Jeff G. Hogg (Karen); two daughters, Kim H. McMahon and Debbie M. Brown (Billy) all of Kelton; five grandchildren, Caitlin, Ronnie, Molly, Andrew and Karl; two great grandchildren, Riley and Finn; and one sister, Janet Black of New Jersey.

She was preceded in death by a daughter, Laurie H. Fowler.

Funeral services were held on July 8 at Chadds Ford Baptist Church in Chadds Ford.

Interment will be in Friendship Cemetery, Coatesville.

In lieu of flowers, donation may be made to Chadds Ford Baptist Church, P.O. Box 322, Chadds Ford, Pa. 19317.

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

would help protect both people and animals from abuse,” said Kristen Tullo, Humane Society of the United States Pennsylvania state director. “Victims of domestic abuse often delay leaving an abusive situation because they fear the abuser will harm their animals. By permitting the inclusion of pets within a protection order, H.B. 1210 would make it easier for victims to leave a dangerous situation with their entire family, including their pets.”

Natalie Ahwesh, executive director of Humane Action Pittsburgh, also expressed support for the bill.

“This bill is a commonsense, bipartisan issue,” Ahwesh said. “Abusers often use family pets as leverage in their torment of their victims, threatening to harm or kill them if victims leave. With this bill, we can protect both animals and humans.”

Sappey said H.B. 1210 was crafted with comprehensive stakeholder input over several years, and is a bipartisan approach to ending violence toward vulnerable Pennsylvanians and their animals.

The legislation now moves to the state Senate for consideration.

FRANCES S. WALSH

Frances S. Walsh. 94, of Oxford, passed away on June 29, 2023 at Ware Presbyterian Village in Oxford after a short illness.

Born in Trenton, N.J., she was the daughter of the late Alex and Agnes Skroupa Siewierski.

Frances retired from Hewlett-Packard in Avondale as a quality technician after 23 years of service.

She was a member of Sacred Heart Church, Oxford.

She enjoyed yard sales, crochet and crafts. Her greatest joy was spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren.

She is survived by five children, Jerry Walsh (Connie) of New Boston, Tex., Joseph Walsh (Theresa) of Nottingham, John Walsh of Oxford, Janet Wagner (Myron) of Oxford and Andy Walsh (Sandy) of Newport Beach, Calif., and 15 grandchildren. She is also survived by 24 great-grandchildren, two great-great-grandchildren, one brother, Louis Siewierski, and one sister, Louise Cooper of Nottingham.

She was preceded in death by two brothers, Julian Siewierski and Alex Siewierski, and one sister, Ann Siewierski.

A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated on July 8 at Sacred Heart Church in Oxford.

Interment will be in Oxford Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory may be made to Sacred Heart Church, 203 Church Road, 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.

NOTICE: DEStorage.com Newgarden

Located at 710 Newark Rd Landenberg, PA 19350

Will be holding a Public ONLINE Auction at www.ibid4storage.com

Closing on August 16, 2023 at 10 AM.

The following units will be sold because of nonpayment of rent pursuant to the Pennsylvania Self Service Storage Facilities Act.

Auction bidding and additional information about the contents, including photographs, is available on www.ibid4storage.com. Sale and payment will take place at the storage facility. Containing: Furniture, household items, totes, clothing, and boxes. Unit # 2007- Mathew Lauer. DEStorage.com Newgarden reserves the right to withdraw any storage unit from sale or cancel the sale without prior notice.

ESTATE NOTICE

ESTATE OF AIDA D. STAIN-

BACK, DECEASED. Late of Oxford Borough, Chester County, PA, LETTERS TESTAMENTARY on the above Estate have been granted to the undersigned, who request all persons having claims or demands against the estate of the decedent to make known the same and all persons indebted to the decedent to make payment without delay to EUGENE

J. DiFILIPPO, III, EXECUTOR, 400 N. Union St., Kennett Square, PA 19348, Or to his Attorney: ANITA M. D’AMICO, D’AMICO LAW, P.C., 65 S. Third St., Oxford, PA 19363 6p-28-3t

ESTATE NOTICE

Richard Van Brunt Rudolph, Jr., DECEASED. Late of West Bradford Township, Chester County, PA, LETTERS TESTAMENTARY on the above Estate have been granted to the undersigned, who request all persons having claims or demands against the estate of the decedent to make known the same and all persons indebted to the decedent to make payment without delay to Kathyn

Sepan and Theresa G. Crouse, Executrix’s, c/o Attorney: Anita

F. O’Meara, The O’Meara Law Firm PC, P.O. Box 209 Unionville, PA 19375

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ESTATE NOTICE

ESTATE OF Harold T. Bryson, Jr., late of Upper Oxford Township, Chester County, Deceased. Letters Testamentary on the estate of the above named Harold T. Bryson, Jr. having been granted to the undersigned, all persons having claims or demands against the estate of the said decedent are requested to make known the same and all persons indebted to the said decedent to make payment without delay to: Susan B. Orth, Executrix, c/o Attorney: Winifred Moran Sebastian, Esquire 208 E. Locust Street

P.O. Box 381 Oxford, PA 19363 Phone: 610-932-3838

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PUBLIC NOTICE OF

REGULAR MEETING

The Board of Supervisors of Penn Township, Chester County, Pennsylvania will hold a regular meeting on Wednesday, July 19, 2023 at 6:00 P.M. in the Township Building located at 260 Lewis Road, West Grove, Pennsylvania 19390 in the Finnen Community Room.

If you are a person with a disability and wish to attend the meeting identified above and require an auxiliary aide, service or other accommodation to participate in the proceedings, please contact Penn Township at 610 869-9620, to discuss how Penn Township may best accommodate your needs. By order of the Penn Supervisors.

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ESTATE NOTICE

Estate of Ramon C. Perez, Late of Borough of West Grove, PA, LETTERS TESTAMENTARY on the above Estate have been granted to the undersigned, who request all persons having claims or demands against the estate of the decedent to make known the same and all persons indebted to the decedent to make payment without delay to Virginia Will and Mary Jane LaGuardia , Executrixes, Or

Attorney: Elle Van Dahlgren, 20 Montchanin Road, Ste. 1000, Greenville, DE 19807

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ESTATE NOTICE

Estate of David M. G. Lawrey, Deceased. Late of East Goshen Twp., PA. Letters Testamentary on the above estate have been granted to the undersigned. All persons having claims against or indebted to the estate should make claims known or forward payment to Steven T. Lawrey, 1449 Maryland Ave., Havertown, PA 19083 and Bruce D. Lawrey, 3104 Western Ave., Unit 606, Seattle, WA 98121, Executors.

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PUBLIC NOTICE

PENNSBURY TOWNSHIP ZONING HEARING BOARD

NOTICE is hereby given that the Zoning Hearing Board of Pennsbury Township will hold a Public Hearing at the Pennsbury Township Building, 702 Baltimore Pike, Chadds Ford, Pennsylvania, on August 3, 2023, at 7:00 p.m. at which time the Board will hear the following matter:

In Re: Application of Thomas and Jennifer Madden, seeking a dimensional variance from the 20% limit on impervious coverage under Zoning Ordinance Section 162-703 so as to permit the construction of a hardscaped patio and fire pit, including a front walkway that would connect the existing porch to the driveway, all on a 1.23 acre single-family residential lot located at 157 McFad-

den Road, Chadds Ford, PA (UPI#64-3-91) in the Township’s R-4 Residential Zoning District. If you are a person with a disability and wish to attend the public meeting scheduled above and require an auxiliary aide, service or other accommodation to participate in the proceedings, please contact Kathy Howley at 610-388-7323 to discuss how Pennsbury Township may best accommodate your needs.

Edward M. Foley, Solicitor Brutscher, Foley, Milliner, Land & Kelly, LLP, 213 East State Street, Kennett Square, PA 19348

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PUBLIC NOTICE

The East Nottingham Township Board of Supervisors will consider adoption of a Resolution related to a Sewage Facilities Planning Special Study describing connection of the Shadyside Mobile Home Park to the Wicklow subdivision sanitary sewage collection and conveyance infrastructure pursuant to the provisions of the “Pennsylvania Sewage Facilities Act” (Act of 1965, P.L. 1535. No. 537) as amended and pursuant to the rules and regulations of the Department of Environmental Protection (“DEP”) contained in Title 25, Chapter 71 of the Pennsylvania Code.

The name of the project is Shadyside Mobile Home Park and the applicant is R. Samuel McMichael. The type of project is an existing mobile home park containing pad sites for 19 mobile homes, however, only 15 pad sites are currently occupied. Each of the uses to be connected to the sanitary sewerage facilities are existing and no new uses are proposed. The proposed connections and structures to be served are within the C1 zoning district (Special Limited Business District). The zoning provides for these existing uses. There is one tax parcel involved; 695-39 which encompasses approximately 2.9 acres at the southwest intersection of Forge Road and Baltimore Pike. The property is located with frontage along the west side of Baltimore Pike and the southwest side of Forge Road. Connection of the Shadyside Mobile Home Park to the Wicklow subdivision existing sanitary sewage collection and conveyance infrastructure is expected to occur within the next six months.

The Sewage Facilities Planning Special Study describes the technical and administrative details associated with the proposed sewage facilities. In summary, the existing sewage facilities within the Shadyside Mobile Home Park include a gravity sewage collection system, sewage treatment tanks and infiltration/seepage areas for renovation of the treated effluent. Recently, a six-inch sanitary sewage force main was constructed along Baltimore Pike as an extension of the Oxford Area Sewer Authority (“OASA”) public sewerage system. The Wicklow subdivision, which abuts the Shadyside Mobile Home Park, is under construction and includes a gravity sanitary sewage collection system and pumping station that is connected to the Six-Inch

Baltimore Pike force main and which will be owned, operated and maintained by the OASA after acceptance of dedication by the OASA. Connection of the Shadyside Mobile Home Park sewage system to the Wicklow subdivision sewage collection system through a single gravity sewer main is proposed as the selected alternative to meet the long-term sewage treatment needs of the Shadyside Mobile Home Park. The sanitary sewage infrastructure within the Shadyside Mobile Home Park will be owned, operated and maintained by, and all costs associated therewith borne by, the Shadyside Mobile Home Park owner. The Wicklow sanitary sewage pumping station Water Quality management Permit issued by the Department of Environmental Protection will be amended to include the sewage flow from the Shadyside Mobile Home Park. The projected volume of sanitary sewage (domestic strength waste) from the 19 mobile homes pad sites to be connected is approximately 4,180 gallons per day based on 220 gpd/unit. This equates to 10.5 EDUs based on 400 gallons per day per EDU as required by the DEP and 19 EDUs using 220 gallons per day per EDU as required by the Oxford Area Sewer Authority. The Sewage Facilities Planning Special Study and related documents may be viewed at the East Nottingham Township Office, 158 Election Road, Oxford, PA 19363, Monday through Thursday between the hours of 9:00 am and 4:00 pm or by appointment. Comments regarding the project Sewage Facilities Planning Special Study must be in writing and sent or delivered to Ms. Dianna Woods, Secretary, East Nottingham Township, 158 Election Road, Oxford, PA 19363 within 30 calendar days immediately following publication of this notice.

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Sheriff Sale of Real Estate

By virtue of the within mentioned writs directed to Sheriff Fredda L. Maddox, the hereindescribed real estate will be sold at public on-line auction via Bid4Assets, by accessing URL www.bid4assets.com/chestercopasheriffsales, on Thursday, July 20th, 2023 at 11AM. Notice is given to all parties in interest and claimants that the Sheriff will file with the Prothonotary and in the Sheriff’s Office, both located in the Chester County Justice Center, 201 W Market Street, West Chester, Pennsylvania, Schedules of Distribution on Monday, August 21st, 2023. Distribution will be made in accordance with the Schedules unless exceptions are filed in the Sheriff’s Office within ten (10) days thereafter.

Sale No. 23-7-201

Writ of Execution No. 2022-10183 DEBT $88,849.49

ALL THAT CERTAIN tract or parcel of land situate in London Grove Township, Chester County, PA, described according to a plan prepared by Regester

Associates, Inc., dated July 18, 1994 and last revised August 6, 1998, being Drawing Number F-447 and being Lot No. 2 on the said plan, to wit:

BEGINNING at a point in the title line of Public Road T-300 known as East Avondale Road, marking a comer of the herein described tract and a comer of lands of James & Kathryn Jennings; thence leaving the said point of beginning and along the title line of East Avondale Road the following three courses and distances to wit:(1) South 65° 56’ 16” East, 218.12 feet to a point; (2) 68° 2’ 46” East, 72.59 feet to a point; (3) South 67 ° 52’ East, 34.16 feet to a point marking a comer of Lot No. 1 on the said plan; thence along the same and leaving East Avondale Road the following two courses and distances to wit:(1) South 22° 13’ West, 250.31 feet to a point; (2) South 57° 21’ 3” West, 274.03 feet to a point in line of lands of James R. & Theresa K. Devlin; thence partly along the same, partly along lands of Thomas A., Jr. & Jennifer Albertson and partly along lands of James & Kathryn Jennings, aforementioned, North 3° 4’ East, 509.24 feet to the first mentioned point and place of BEGINNING.

CONTAINING 2.224 acres of land be the same more or less.

BEING Lot No. 2 on said plan.

BEING THE SAME PREMISES which Richard E. and Carol M. Yourgalite, by Deed dated 10/1/1998 and recorded 10/1/1998 in the Office of the Recorder of Deeds in and for Chester County in Deed Book 4429, Page 634, granted and conveyed unto Thomas and Terri L. Perkier.

TAX PARCEL NO.: 59-11-122

IMPROVEMENTS thereon: a residential property

PLAINTIFF: CITIZENS BANK, N.A S/B/M TO CITIZENS BANK OF PENNSYLVANIA VS DEFENDANT: Thomas Ferkler and Terri L. Ferkler

SALE ADDRESS: 122 East Avondale Road, West Grove, PA 19390

PLAINTIFF ATTORNEY: GREGORY JAVARDIAN, LLC

215-942-9690

N.B. Ten percent (10%) of the purchase money must be paid at the time of the on-line sale. Payment must be made via Bid4Assets. The balance must be paid within twenty-one (21) days from the date of sale via Bid4Assets. FREDDA L. MADDOX, SHERIFF 6p-28-3t

Sheriff Sale of Real Estate

By virtue of the within mentioned writs directed to Sheriff Fredda L. Maddox, the hereindescribed real estate will be sold at public on-line auction via Bid4Assets, by accessing URL www.bid4assets.com/chestercopasheriffsales, on Thursday,

July 20th, 2023 at 11AM. Notice is given to all parties in interest and claimants that the Sheriff will file with the Prothonotary and in the Sheriff’s Office, both located in the Chester County Justice Center, 201 W Market Street, West Chester, Pennsylvania, Schedules of Distribution on Monday, August 21st, 2023. Distribution will be made in accordance with the Schedules unless exceptions are filed in the Sheriff’s Office within ten (10) days thereafter.

Sale No. 23-7-218

Writ of Execution No. 2020-02535 DEBT $264,578.96

ALL THAT CERTAIN messuage and four tracts of land situate in the Township of Lower Oxford, County of Chester and State of Pennsylvania, bounded and described as follows, to wit:

TRACT #1:

BEGINNING at a point in the middle of the public road leading from Lincoln University to Elkview, Chester County, Pennsylvania; thence along the middle of said Road, North 60 degrees East 82 feet and 6 inches to a point in said road; thence by lands now or late of D.R. Johnson, North 28 degrees West, 200 feet to a point by lands now or late of C.W. Shortlidge & Company, South 60 degrees West 87 feet and 6 inches to a point; thence by lands of the Lower Oxford Public School Board, South 30 degrees East 201.79 feet to the place of Beginning. Containing 17,478 square feet of land, be the same more or less.

TRACT #2:

BEGINNING near the Southeast comer of land now or late of O.W. Shortlidge & Co. Cornerib, South 59 degrees West along land now or late of O.W. Shortlidge & Co., 100 feet; thence by land now or late of Henry Cope, South 31 degrees East 51 feet; thence by land now or late of D.R. Johnson, North 59 degrees East 100 feet; thence by land now or late of O.W. Shortlidge & Co. land, north 31 degrees West, 51 feet to the place of Beginning. Containing 5,100 square feet of land more or less.

TRACT #3:

BEGINNING at a point in the middle of the public road leading from Harmony Grove School House toward Elkview Station, a comer of other lands now or late of Henry Cope, and running thence by other lands of the same which this was formerly a part, north 32 degrees West, 150 feet to a comer; thence by the same South 57 degrees West 50 feet (erroneously omitted from previous deeds) to a comer; thence by the same South 32 degrees East, 150 feet to the middle of the public road aforesaid; thence along the middle of the said road, north 57 degrees 50 feet to the place of Beginning. Containing 7,500 square feet of land be the same more or less.

County receives grant to provide outreach to people experiencing homelessness

The Chester County Department of Community Development (DCD) recently received a $375,000 PHARE (Pennsylvania Housing Affordability and Rehabilitation Enhancement) award from the Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency. DCD will use the funds for its Street Outreach and Data

TRACT #4:

BEGINNING at a post or stone, a comer of land now or late of John Otley, and running thence South 33 degrees East 150 feet to the middle of a public road; thence along said road, North 56.75 degrees East, 50 feet to a stone; Thence by land late of Josiah Cope & Co., Now of the Lincoln Chapel and along an alley North 33 degrees West 150 feet to a stone; thence by lands now or late of Josiah Lukens, South 56.75 degrees West, 50 feet to the place of Beginning. Containing 7,500 square feet of land, be the same more or less.

Excepting and reserving thereout and therefrom all that certain messuage and lot of land which Louis W. Millis and Clara R. Millis, his wife, granted and conveyed unto Francis O’Connor and Mary O’Connor, his wife, by Deed dated September 15, 1946 and recorded in the Recorder of Deeds Office in and for the County and State aforesaid in Deed Book S-22, Volume 540, page 272, and bounded and described as follows: Beginning at a post or stone, a comer of lands now or late of John Otley and running thence south 33 degrees East 150 feet to the middle of a public road; thence along said road, North 56.75 degrees East 45 feet to a stone, thence by land now or late of Josiah Cope & Co, now of Lincoln Chapel and along an alley North 33 degrees West 150 feet to a stone; thence by land now or late of Josiah Lukens, South 56.75 West 45 feet to the place of Beginning. Containing 6,750 square feet of land.

Also Beginning at a post or stone near the Southeast comer of land now or late of O.W. Shortlidge & Co. Cornerib, South 59 degrees West along land now or late of O.W. Shortlidge & Co., 45 feet; thence by land now or late of Louis W. Millis, South 31 degrees East 51 feet; thence by land now or late of Louis W. Millis, North 59 degrees East 45 feet; thence by land now or late of O.W. Shortlidge and Co., North 31 degrees West, 51 feet to the place of Beginning. Containing 2,295 square feet of land (surveyed 7/29/1911 magneticbearing).

And Also, excepting and reserving the following described tract of land: Beginning at the northwest comer of land of Francis O’Connor, and wife; thence by land now or late of O.W. Shortlidge & Co., South 57 degrees West 5 feet to a comer of land above conveyed; thence by the same South 32 degrees East 201 feet to a point in the middle of the public road; thence by the middle of said road, North 57 degrees East 5 feet to a comer of land of O’Connor aforesaid; thence by said land, North 32 degrees West 201 feet to the point of beginning.

Containing 1,005 square feet of land.

BEING THE SAME PREMISES which Charles M. Shoop and H. Jean Shoop by Deed dated March 7, 1978 and recorded March 8, 1978 in the Office of the Recorder of Deeds in and for the County of Chester, in Deed Book N 52, Page 441, granted and conveyed unto Aaron M. Shoop and Clarabelle J. Shoop, husband and wife, as tenants by the entireties, in fee.

AND THE SAID Clarabell J. Shoop departed this lifeon or about 06-22-2016 thereby vesting title unto Aaron M. Shoop by operationof law.

Team reinforcement efforts, which helps to serve the needs of unsheltered Chester County residents.

The DCD award was part of more than $3 million in funding given to organizations throughout Chester County that help ensure housing security, assist people experiencing homelessness, build

AND THE SAID Aaron M. Shoop departed this life on or about 09-10-2019 thereby vesting title unto Judy Shoop, Known Heir of Aaron M. Shoop, deceased and any Unknown Heirs, Successors, Assigns and All Persons, Firms or Associations Claiming Right, Title or Interest from or under Aaron M. Shoop, Deceased.

Tax Parcel # 56-10A-29

PLAINTIFF: Reverse Mortgage Funding LLC

VS

DEFENDANT: Judy Shoop, Known Heir of Aaron M. Shoop, deceased and Unknown Heirs, Successors, Assigns and All Persons, Firms or Associations

Claiming Right, Title or Interest from or under Aaron M. Shoop, deceased

SALE ADDRESS: 103 Elkview Road, Lincoln University, PA 19352

PLAINTIFF ATTORNEY: LOGS LEGAL GROUP LLP

610-2786800

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

DOX, SHERIFF

6p-28-3t

Sheriff Sale of Real Estate

By virtue of the within mentioned writs directed to Sheriff Fredda L. Maddox, the hereindescribed real estate will be sold at public on-line auction via Bid4Assets, by accessing URL www.bid4assets.com/chestercopasheriffsales, on Thursday, July 20th, 2023 at 11AM. Notice is given to all parties in interest and claimants that the Sheriff will file with the Prothonotary and in the Sheriff’s Office, both located in the Chester County Justice Center, 201 W Market Street, West Chester, Pennsylvania, Schedules of Distribution on Monday, August 21st, 2023. Distribution will be made in accordance with the Schedules unless exceptions are filed in the Sheriff’s Office within ten (10) days thereafter.

Sale No.23-7-221

Writ of Execution

No. 2015-01455 DEBT $149,507.56

PROPERTY SITUATE IN OF KENNETT TOWNSHIP

SOLD AS THE PROPERTY OF:

DOROTHY N. CONNOLLY and FREDERICK P. MRAZ

TAX PARCEL # 62-02J-0003

IMPROVEMENTS thereon: a residential dwelling

PLAINTIFF: M&T BANK VS DEFENDANT: DOROTHY N. CONNOLLY & FREDERICK P.

MRAZ

SALE ADDRESS: 9 Woodchuck Lane Lot 9, Kennett Square, PA 19348

PLAINTIFF ATTORNEY: KML LAW GROUP, P.C. 215-6271322

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

new affordable housing, and provide case management. Many of these organizations are partners of the Chester County Partnership to End Homelessness, located in the Department of Community Development.

Dolores Colligan, director of the Chester County Department of Community

DOX, SHERIFF

Development said, “Housing instability and access to affordable housing are critical issues within Chester County. This PHARE award will allow our Street Outreach program to make its data tracking capabilities more robust through timely verification, intervention, and reporting.

Legals

6p-28-3t

Sheriff Sale of Real Estate

By virtue of the within mentioned writs directed to Sheriff Fredda L. Maddox, the hereindescribed real estate will be sold at public on-line auction via Bid4Assets, by accessing URL www.bid4assets.com/chestercopasheriffsales, on Thursday, July 20th, 2023 at 11AM. Notice is given to all parties in interest and claimants that the Sheriff will file with the Prothonotary and in the Sheriff’s Office, both located in the Chester County Justice Center, 201 W Market Street, West Chester, Pennsylvania, Schedules of Distribution on Monday, August 21st, 2023. Distribution will be made in accordance with the Schedules unless exceptions are filed in the Sheriff’s Office within ten (10) days thereafter.

Sale No. 23-7-222

Writ of Execution No. 2019-05086

DEBT $314,032.20

ALL THAT CERTAIN lot or piece of ground, being known as LOT NO. 17, situate in the TOWNSHIP OF EAST NOTTINGHAM, County of Chester and Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, bounded and described according to a Final Plan of “Hopewell Ridge” prepared by Lake Roeder Hillard & Associates and Ranck Lake Roeder Hillard & Associates, dated 9-10-2003, last revised 11-282005 and recorded as Plan No. 17688, as follows, to wit:

BEGINNING at a point on the Southeasterly side of Buttercup Drive (50 feet wide), a corner of Lot No. 15 on said Plan; thence from said beginning point, leaving Buttercup Drive and extending along Lot 15 South 40 degrees 08 minutes 04 seconds East 198.71 feet to a point, a comer of Lot 18 on said Plan; thence extending along Lot 18 the two following courses and distances, viz.: 1) South 76 degrees 55 minutes 31 seconds West 123.74 feet to a point, thence 2) South 58 degrees 31 minutes 54 seconds West 255.84 feet to a point on the Northeasterly side of Forge Road (SR 3001); thence extending along Forge Road the three following courses and distances, viz.: 1) North 16 degrees 51 minutes 39 seconds West 128.37 feet to a point, thence 2) North 16 degrees 17 minutes 54 seconds West 36.16 feet to a point of curve, thence 3) on the arc of a circle curving to the right having a radius of 30.00 feet the arc distance of 47.12 feet (and a chord bearing of North 28 degrees 42 minutes 06 seconds East 42.43 feet) to a point of tangent on the Southeasterly side of Buttercup Drive aforesaid; thence extending along Buttercup Drive the two following courses and distances, viz.: 1) North 73 degrees 42 minutes 06 seconds East 38.46 feet to a point of curve, thence 2) on the arc of a circle curving to the left having a radius of 550.00 feet the arc distance of 229.58 feet (and a chord bearing of North 61 degrees 44 minutes 37 seconds East 227.91 feet) to the first mentioned point and place of BEGINNING.

BEING THE SAME PREMISES which Willow Creek, LLC, by Deed dated October 17, 2011 and recorded October 20, 2011 in the Office of the Recorder of Deeds in and for the County of Chester, Pennsylvania in Book 8271, Page 44, as Instrument Number 1130618, granted and

“The work of the Street Outreach Team, along with readily available data, contribute significantly to the goal of making homelessness in Chester County rare, brief, and non-recurring.”

Since the pandemic began in 2020, Chester County’s Street Outreach Team has assisted unsheltered

Chester County individuals and families in finding suitable shelter. For more information on Chester County’s Partnership to End Homelessness, and how to participate in ending homelessness in Chester County, go to https://endhomelessnesschesco.org/ partner-with-us.

conveyed unto William B. Carey III and Matthew J. Fischer, adult individuals, in fee.

TAX PARCEL# 6905 00151600

PLAINTIFF: JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association VS

DEFENDANT: Matthew J. Fischer and William B. Carey, III

SALE ADDRESS: 141 Granite Drive, Oxford, PA 19363

PLAINTIFF ATTORNEY: LOGS LEGAL GROUP LLP 610-2786800

N.B. Ten percent (10%) of the purchase money must be paid at the time of the on-line sale. Payment must be made via Bid4Assets. The balance must be paid within twenty-one (21) days from the date of sale via Bid4Assets. FREDDA L. MADDOX, SHERIFF 6p-28-3t

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DESTINATION DELAWARE DESTINATION DELAWARE

Inside Winterthur’s enthralling and enormous library

By Ken Mammarella Contributing Writer

A richly illustrated 1570 treatise on architecture by Andrea Palladio (he of Palladian windows fame), a 1776-77 workbook by student Peggey Clayton solving math problems (and writing beautifully on other pages) and a 1933 Sears catalog (one smart dress, in regular and stout sizes, is just 59 cents) are just some of the treasures in Winterthur’s library.

There are many, many more, enough to fill 30,000 square feet on five floors: more than 100,000 books; 4,000 collections, which could each include tens of thousands of items; and 4,000 feet of shelving for archives related to Winterthur itself.

So who comes in here?

“Everybody,” said Rebecca Parmer, the library’s director since May. “Advanced scholars, international scholars, faculty members, folks writing books, graduate students and undergraduate students working on their own research or participating in a course with us. But it’s also community members who are doing genealogical research, who just want to be surrounded by things that spark creativity and ideas and who want to look at or feel connected to our past.”

The genesis of the library goes back to du Pont patriarch Pierre Samuel, whose 8,000book collection was one of young America’s largest private libraries. When his son E.I. died in 1834, an inventory concluded that his most valuable possession was his library, worth five times his silver.

The concept was supersized when descendant Henry Francis du Pont decided to turn his home into a museum of decorative arts, creating a research lab to study what he owned and an academic program to train experts in material culture.

He sent Charles Montgomery (Winterthur’s first curator) and Frank Sommer (the first library director) to Europe to buy stuff. “It was a book-buying spree,” Parmer said. “With a blank check.”

How it began

“The library would collect architectural pattern books, artisan price and account books, domestic advice manuals, trade catalogues, cookbooks, diaries, travel accounts, fabric swatch books, full runs (with the covers) of the great consumer magazines, dozens of European books – all offering a rare and extraordinary visual catalogue of American

history, art and design.”

That’s from the introduction to The Winterthur Library Revealed: Five Centuries of Design and Inspiration, a volume published in 2001 to mark the library’s 50th anniversary.

Michael Rodriguez (a strategist for LYRASIS, an international nonprofit serving archives, libraries and museums) called Winterthur’s collections “unique and indispensable.”

“Do you know that the Winterthur library holds eminent American artist John Lewis Krimmel’s original sketchbooks, which feature the earliest depictions of a Christmas tree in American art, from 1812/13?” he said.

“To see, touch, and experience firsthand these historical items is nothing short of aweinspiring. The Winterthur library is indispensable for anyone doing research in the fine and decorative arts.”

Kaari Newman, a Ph.D. candidate in English at the University of Delaware, agrees on the importance of the collection and its potential interest. Her doctoral dissertation explores “aunt figures in periodical literature, specifically the ways in which they either support or challenge Victorian notions of family and kin,” and a Winterthur/UD course on

British design history opened her eyes “to the wide wide world of decorative arts. I still draw on the object lessons and material cultural aspects I learned in that course when I’m reading and interpreting my texts.”

As part of her graduate certification in museum studies, she also worked at Winterthur, including curating two exhibitions (the latest, “Playing With Paper,” highlights treasures from the Maxine Waldron Collection of Paper Dolls, Toys and Ephemera) and doing a deep dive into the stacks that uncovered “several fun, creative, colorful or otherwise interesting items that could be highlighted for visitors or on Winterthur’s social media channels.”

“The Winterthur library is a storied and internationally recognized institution,” Parmer said.

Colorful era

Winterthur Museum, Garden & Library is famous for its collection of nearly 90,000 objects showcasing decorative and fine arts made in America from 1630 to 1860. The library collection extends further into the past and further into the future. A recent purchase, for instance, was four 19th century songbooks of Black

music that would later be very influential on a lot of American music.

“We’re actively collecting in a way that tries to expand our knowledge and broadens our understanding of who and what makes the American experience,” Parmer said.

Many intriguing items are categorized as ephemera –items that were intended to be used or used up and not saved, like greeting cards, invitations, labels for boxes and books that that display hundreds of swatches made in Norwich, England. “A lot of people tend to think of the 19th century as very drab, but when you look at these historic samples, you realize just how colorful the era was,” Parmer said. And it’s not just color that can be analyzed. X-ray fluorescence can figure out the elemental composition of the material, without destroying it.

A working library

Some items have also been digitized, to make them accessible to everyone. But digitization is time-

consuming and expensive to do and maintain.

The collections also document changing technologies, such as lithography, a cheaper and faster technique to print in color. “This process enabled the printing industry to just explode,” she said.

Those swatches and other manufacturers’s sample books can interest modern businesses. For instance, on the day Parmer was interviewed for this article, the library was also hosting a team from a home furnishings company looking at old wallpapers.

The temperature and the humidity in the library are carefully controlled to help preserve items, and if there’s damage, a world-class conservation crew is nearby. Ephemera is often stored in boxes, which further reduce exposure to dust and light.

But this is a working library, and items are available to be touched – with care.

“Everything is meant to be used,” Parmer said. “We balance that with the need for preservation.”

Photos by Ken Mammarella

Winterthur Library director Rebecca Parmer in the rare book room.

Winner of three Tony® Awards, Lionel Bart’s coming-of-age stage musical Oliver! - based upon the 1838 novel Oliver Twist by Charles Dickenstakes audiences on a wild adventure throughout Victorian England.

Stage Director

TINA SHEING

Musical Director

KATIE SOUKUP

Choreographer

CHRISTINA LAWLESS

DESTINATION DELAWARE DESTINATION DELAWARE

Inside the Delaware Museum Of Nature and Science

By Ken Mammarella

Contributing

Writer

Is it open yet?” Benjamin Parker, a 3½-year-old from Kennett Square, has been asking that a lot as he and his mother drove along Kennett Pike near Greenville. He was referring to the new Delaware Museum of Nature and Science, and in May, he and his family were among the first to experience the 17-month, $10.8 million renovation of the old natural history museum.

“It’s more interactive, kid-friendly, realistic and highly educational,” said his mother, Alysha Parker, who

visited the museum weekly with her mother when she was growing up.

“It’s like the whole world is open,” said Alysha’s mother, Carolyn Isakoff, also of Kennett.

The museum’s major wings focus on Delaware-area and iconic global ecosystems, with exhibits to touch and manipulate, live animals to observe, taxidermied and preserved creatures to look at, lifelike replicas (though decidedly dead for fossils) to inspire, tunnels to go through, drawers to open, videos to watch and ambient sounds and evocative

lighting to teleport visitors to these environments.

The Discovery Gallery in the museum’s core showcases short-term, hands-on exhibits, with the opening material from the museum, the Delaware Mineralogical Society, First State Robotics and the University of Delaware’s Center for Applied Coastal Research.

“We want people to explore,” Cathy Perrotto, the museum’s public engagement manager, said in an interview from the Discovery Gallery. “We don’t give them the answer.”

Can visitors match the mineral to the refined product? Can they recognize the classic six simple machines in a

modern and complex robotic hand? “It’s very hands-on,” Perrotto said, noting it’s geared to ages 8 and above – including adults with childlike curiosities.

What visitors will see, feel and hear Visitor Ari Wiebke, a 15-year-old from Hockessin, interviewed while generating waves in a Discovery Gallery tank, said the creatures preserved in jars were her favorite features. “It was fascinating to learn about the process to preserve them,” she said.

“I’m most excited about introducing people to animals and environments that they may have never seen before – tiny snails in a

local cypress swamp, deepsea squat lobsters or even a capybara in the rainforest!” said Liz Shea, the museum’s director of collections and curator of mollusks.

“We’ve completely shed that dusty, old museum perception,” Executive Director Halsey Spruance said in a statement. “Our focus is on what we know about nature and science, why it matters to us and what we can do to protect the environment.”

The museum was founded in 1957 and opened in 1972. The building is 72,000 square feet, with 27,000 square feet for exhibits and the same amount for research. The rest is for operations.

Some favorites have been retained, including the giant squid suspended over entrance (now chasing a school of orange roughy) and the walk-over hallway coral reef (with repainted features and enhanced with wall and floor murals). The reef, which generated the most questions about its future, has a unexpected use in training service dogs to gain confidence walking over transparent flooring.

The rethink is sensitive to visitors with varying needs, including access for those in wheelchairs, a quiet nook for

nursing mothers and those facing sensory overload, closed captioning for people with hearing issues and layered text for different reading levels.

The details behind the scenes

The project also included work on lighting, sound, heating, cooling, fire suppression, paving and restrooms. Space has been made for sandwiches, wraps and other refreshments from Jamestown Catering. Outdoors, work has focused on recovery from the 2021 tornado.

Renovations involved experts near and far. A whale skull was prepared by Whales and Nails, of Maine.

Dixon Studios of Arizona made the landscapes, based on samples of dirt, leaves and other items that museum staffers gathered from across Delaware. At-Mar Glass of Kennett Square hand-blew 23 customized glass jars for specimens. Kubik-Maltbie of South Jersey fabricated exhibits. JacobsWyper of Philadelphia was the architect, and Bancroft Construction of Wilmington the general contractor.

On opening weekend, New Castle County Executive Matt Meyer said he planned

Photo courtesy of the Delaware Museum of Nature & Science Opening items in the Discovery Gallery include an interactive robot from First State Robotics and interactive wave tank from the University of Delaware’s Center for Applied Coastal Research.

Photo courtesy of the Delaware Museum of Nature & Science

Throughout the newly remodeled Delaware Museum of Nature & Science, visitors are invited to touch and explore many exhibits.

to propose a $500,000 grant for the museum. “We have some federal resources to address some of the inequities that we’ve seen in the past couple of years,” TownSquareDelaware reported him saying. “We share the vision of the leadership of this museum to see that the people going into this museum look like the people of our county look like.”

Throughout the museum, visitors should now look down (there’s an impressively large floor map of Delaware), at different levels of exhibits (can you find the bottle cap befouling the beach?) and up (one ginormous ceilingmounted addition is the skull of a whale that beached in Kent County in 2017). They should not, however, climb the trees. It is OK to feel the bark and try to spot the halfhidden creatures. Museum staffers will monitor visitor interest as they develop activities, and there are plans to create audio tours, probably via visitors’ smartphones.

“They have great family events,” said Tina Nuse of Unionville, who is sending daughter Samantha to summer camp there for the first time this year.

And dinosaurs, of course The Regional Journey Gallery features five local ecosystems, plus space for interactivity. A “you are here” sign points out the museums sits on what was a deciduous forest.

In the other wing, the PaleoZone goes back millions of years to when Delaware was underwater, featuring the fearsome dryptosaurus, the flying “bat lizard” nyctosaur and the aquatic giant mosasaur.

Dryptosaurus, thanks to work from students at ShueMedill Middle and Rep. Paul Baumbach, was nominated as Delaware’s official dinosaur. Bones from only two types of dinosaurs have been found in Delaware: dryptosaurus and what is most likely a hadrosaurus that’s New Jersey’s state dinosaur.

The Global Journey Gallery highlights the Arctic tundra, the African savanna and the tropical rainforest. Three more areas cover the ocean: shallows, midwater and deep sea.

“On the global side, I think the deep-sea dive into the Atlantic canyons will be popular,” said Shea. “It’s an immersive experience that uses real footage and real specimens to explore the

ocean. On the Delaware side, I’m excited that we have a whole exhibit about the red knot and how important it is for them to feed on horseshoe crab eggs in the Delaware Bay.”

Three interactive touring exhibitions have been booked, starting in 2023.

They are “Be the Astronaut,” originally set for 2020; “Mindbender Mansion,” brainteasers from the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry; and “Permian Monsters: Life Before the Dinosaurs.”

In the entrance to the Discovery Gallery, there’s a prominent quote from DuPont Co. chemist Stephanie Kwolek: “All sorts of things can happen when you’re open to new ideas.”

The Delaware Museum of Nature and Science is open 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. daily.

Admission is $12.95 for ages 3 and up, $3.95 for ages 1-2 and free under 1, with a $1 discount for tickets purchased in advance online.

Admission is free for museum members. For the first year, members of Delaware Art Museum, Hagley, Mt. Cuba, Tyler Arboretum and Winterthur also receive free general admission. Details: https://delmns.org.

The Station Gallery

Fine Art & Custom Framing

The Gallery opened in 1979 to present works by regional artists and offer museum quality framing. Gallery exhibits change monthly with a wide range of original art.

Photo courtesy of the Delaware Museum of Nature & Science/Teresa Bonaddio

The Delaware Museum of Nature & Science opened earlier this year with a new name and focus.

DESTINATION DELAWARE DESTINATION DELAWARE

Delaware Park Casino & Racing continues their $10 million-dollar casino floor refresh and the final product is in the homestretch. With newly installed custom chandeliers and sconces and vibrantly-colored carpeting, the building exudes an entirely new energy.

The High Limit Table Pit area was recently unveiled and includes hand held EZ Baccarat and Hand Held Baccarat featuring 5 Treasures and Dragon Bonus wagers. This area also has two Blackjack tables with higher limits.

Additional improvements include an expanded High Limit Slot area and new slot configurations: moving from tight linear banks to openly spaced pods. Many

guests agree that this allows for ease of flow throughout the property and a more personal slot playing experience.

New dining options joining the current line-up are Foo Noodle Bar, located adjacent to the High Limit Table Pit, which features favorite Asian dishes. Also, a large VIP bar with Video Poker machines is centrally located and aptly named RBar in memory of previous General Manager Ron Baumann. Look for more exciting dining concepts to follow!

Delaware Park Casino & Racing encourages everyone to give them another look- you will sure to be impressed with the sleek, modern feel and comfortable amenities.

DESTINATION DELAWARE DESTINATION DELAWARE

The Newark History Museum: All aboard to Newark’s rich past

By Gene Pisasale

Contributing

Writer

Walking inside the Newark History Museum, you experience a unique part of local heritage: you’re in an old train depot which operated for decades.

The Pennsylvania Railroad Station at 429 South College Avenue served

customers along the busy northeast corridor between Philadelphia and Baltimore.

Designed by architect S.T. Fuller, the building was constructed in 1877 for just over $9,000 by the Philadelphia, Wilmington and Baltimore Railroad to replace an earlier structure.

Operating for nearly a century, it was closed in

the 1970s and placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1982; an historical marker nearby tells the story.

The building was purchased by the city of Newark and is being used by the Historical Society to showcase people, places and events important in Delaware history.

The museum is a time capsule that takes visitors back to the late 19th century, when train travel was the fastest way to go.

The structure is beautifully restored, with its steeply sloping roof, dormers and brickwork all superbly intact. Situated alongside the tracks, it feels like you can catch the next train when it stops for passengers. The interior provides an eclectic

walk through local history, with numerous exhibits showcasing things dating from the late 1700s up through the 20th century.

Newark’s heritage is a multi-faceted story. According to the Museum website, it had its beginnings in the early 1700s, with development of a small English, Scots-Irish and Welsh hamlet along two Indian trails and the line where the Christina and White Clay Creeks moved toward the Delaware River. The area served travelers from Maryland and nearby regions to Philadelphia. By 1758, the bustling crossroads received a Charter from King George II; Newark was officially

born. Entrepreneurs built numerous mills, including ones producing cotton, paper and flour along the creeks over the years. The Museum displays an important link to our country’s inception: a book open to a page highlighting the Battle at Cooch’s Bridge, which occurred on September 3, 1777. Cooch’s Bridge was the only battle during the Revolutionary War fought on Delaware soil. A museum exhibit mentions Deandale as Newark’s first industrial neighborhood. Joseph Dean was an Englishman who came to America and made a fortune in the wool business.

The Dean Woolen Mill became a major supplier to the U.S. Army during the Civil War. Joseph Dean’s son William purchased property nearby and named streets after family members. A fire later destroyed the facility. A fiber mill was subsequently built on the site, which became the American Hard Fibre Company that produced vulcanized fibre used in luggage, waste cans, gears, bearings and other applications. The firm was merged into the National Vulcanized Fibre Company,

which had its headquarters in Wilmington. The plant operated until 1991, and was then renovated and converted into offices, apartments, a restaurant and retail shops. The area’s roots include a link to nearby Chester County, Pennsylvania from which the New London Academy moved. The school was renamed the Newark Academy and would eventually become the University of Delaware. In 1837, the Philadelphia, Wilmington & Baltimore Railroad - later the Pennsylvania Railroad - linked Newark to points around the region. The Baltimore & Ohio Railroad, predecessor of CSX, came in 1886. Industrial concerns including the Curtis Paper Company and others helped to diversify the local economy. The town’s population grew rapidly through the 1920s; a large retail market developed with the university and industrial expansion. The Great Depression slowed economic growth, but the pace of development increased substantially during World War II and the post-war years. Several Du Pont facilities opened in

Historical marker at the Newark History Museum.

Curator Mary E. Torbey with Estey Pump Organ at the Newark History Museum.

DESTINATION DELAWARE DESTINATION DELAWARE

Notable members of the Newark business community including the Dean family.

the 1940s; in 1951, Chrysler built its Newark Assembly Plant.

The Newark History Museum provides interesting “slices” of many stories. You’ll see a large neon sign from a local icon- Minster’s Jewelers- which operated in downtown since 1895. It closed in 2018 after serving customers for 123 years. Another neon sign next to it is from the State Theater, which opened its doors in 1929. Built in a neoclassical style, it was added to the

National Register of Historic Places in 1983. The museum has two of the original seats from the theater in its collection. Sadly, the building was razed in 1989.

Curator Mary E. Torbey stops and smiles at each exhibit as if they were old friends. A catalogue from Newark College from 1838- 1839 courtesy of the Lamborn family is in one cabinet. An Estey Pump Organ made in the 1870s stands along one wall; it was originally used in Ott’s

A National Vulcanized Fibre label.

Chapel, donated to the Museum in 2008. Women who enjoy seeing personal items from yesteryear will delight at finding a parasol from the late 1880s in one corner, a Fader family bodice and skirt circa early 1900s nearby. A Newark High School Spirit exhibitcomplete with mannikins in school uniforms - is around another corner.

Newark Historical Society President Kaitlyn Tanis has put together a fascinating museum with the help of her team; Torbey says they are always considering new additions to the collection for future exhibits. Walking around the building, one appreciates the historic train station setting and the numerous artifacts which bring it to life. They are filled with so many memories,

shared by the hundreds of people who come to see the displays, re-living parts of their past.

Gene Pisasale is an historian, author and

lecturer based in Kennett Square, Pennsylvania. His ten books focus on the Chester County/mid-Atlantic region. His latest book is Forgotten Founding Fathers: Pennsylvania and Delaware

in the American Revolution. Gene’s books are available through his website at www. GenePisasale.com and on www.Amazon.com. He can be reached via e-mail at Gene@GenePisasale.com.

The Newark History Museum.

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UPCOMING EVENTS

August 19

Middletown Old-Tyme Peach Festival

Lifes’s a peach at this annual event, which features a parade, a pie-baking contest, music, food, games and local art. For more information, visit www.middletownpeachfestival.com

August 29

Downtown Newark Food and Brew

Noon-7pm

Food and Brew Fest is all about celebrating the unique relationship between the culinary arts and the brewing sciences! Out & About Magazine and Downtown Newark Partnership are proud to host what has become a summer tradition: the Downtown Newark Food and Brew Festival. The event showcases more than 40 craft and imported beers paired with creative food offerings from 17 of Newark’s restaurants.

September 2

Arden Fair

Held the Saturday of Labor Day weekend, this centuryold tradition offers an antiques market for crafts, games, food and music in Arden. To learn more, visit, www.ardenclub.org

September 9

Odessa Brewfest 12pm-5:30pm

The Odessa Brewfest is a fund-raising event for the Historic Odessa Foundation, a non-profit organization whose mission is to ensure the legacy of the Historic Houses of Odessa for future generations, through commitment to the preservation of Odessa’s unique historic, architectural, and cultural heritage. The Odessa Brewfest is intended to be an opportunity to sample some of the best regional and national craft beers, as well as locally-produced wine and spirits, accompanied by great food, great music, and great people.

September 9-10

Brandywine Festival of the Arts

Always held the weekend after Labor Day, this festival features more than 100 juried artists selling works at Brandywine Park’s Josephine Gardens in Wilmington. For more information, visit www.brandywinearts.com.

DELAWARE DELAWARE

September 15-17

Weedstock

The Delaware chapter of NORML will present the annual Weedstock event in Townsend, DE. There will be 18 hours of live music, with food, beer,wine and soft drinks. The private location is Firebase Lloyd. Camping is available. Sunday brunch is included with a camping ticket. www.facebookDENORML

September 17

Hagley Car Show

Destination event for fans of classic cars. Experience the wonders of automotive innovation. Over 500 antique and retored cars. Hagley Museum Wilmington

September 16 - October 3

Oktoberfest

Saengerbund in Newark serves authentic foods and beverages. Music and dancing.to learn more visit Delawaresaengerbund.org

September 23

Art on the Green

Annual art and crafts event takes place on the banks of the Delware River in historic New Castle. More than 200 artisans and craftspeople ahve their work displayed. Battery Park, New Castle. Sponsored by the New Castle Hundred Lions Club.

Prada Chanel Hermes Celine Michael Kors Kate Spade Tory Burch Louis

Ralph Lauren Gucci Burberry Louis Vuitton Alexander McQueen John

DESTINATION DELAWARE DESTINATION DELAWARE

THE DELAWARE SYMPHONY’S 118TH SEASON FEATURES A BOLD LINEUP OF ARTISTS AND REPERTOIRE

The Delaware Symphony Orchestra is proud to announce its 118th season, featuring a captivating lineup of performances including five Classics Series concerts, three Chamber Series concerts, a return to the Hotel du Pont’s Gold Ballroom, and two concerts in Sussex County.

“This season represents our most diverse programming yet,” said Executive Director J.C. Barker. “We cannot wait to share this extraordinary lineup of music and artists with our friends, both old and new! We know this season will deliver performances that audiences of all ages and experience can connect with and enjoy.”

The Classics Series

The Classics Series features the DSO in symphonic concerts with guest artists and are performed at The Grand Opera House in Wilmington and Cape Henlopen High School in Lewes, Delaware.

Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini, featuring acclaimed guest pianist Stewart Goodyear as well as Claude Debussy’s timeless masterpiece, La Mer Next in ¡Música Bravo!, guest conductor Michelle Di Russo and guitarist João Luiz will take audiences on a vibrant journey through Hispanic and Latin-inspired works by Arturo Márquez, Alberto Ginastera, Manuel de Falla, Joaquín Rodrigo, and Rimsky-Korsakov. The program will be performed in both Wilmington and Lewes on November 10 and 12, 2023.

On January 19, 2024, the New Year begins with From Home to Rome, directed by guest conductor André Raphel and featuring the virtuosic talents of violinist Jennifer Frautschi performing Beethoven’s Violin Concerto. This concert will also feature West Chester native Samuel Barber’s Symphony in One Movement and Respighi›s majestic Pines of Rome.

March 22 and 24, 2024, invites you to A John Williams Celebration the iconic themes from Star Wars, Harry Potter, E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial, Jurassic Park , and more — led by guest conductor Scott Speck. This program will also be performed in both Wilmington and Lewes, Delaware.

Kicking off the series on Friday, October 13, is Sky, Sea, and Rhapsody. Under the leadership of Music Director Laureate David Amado, the DSO will perform Rachmaninoff’s

The final Classics concert on April 26, 2024 — Amado Conducts Mahler — welcomes Maestro Amado back to the podium for

Mahler›s epic masterpiece, Symphony No. 7

“Song of the Night.”

The Chamber Series

The DSO Chamber Series offers intimate concerts of smaller ensembles at venues including the DuPont Country Club and the Gold Ballroom of the Hotel du Pont.

The first concert, Percussionists of the DSO, on October 24, promises an unforgettable evening showcasing the artistry and versatility of these DSO musicians. This exciting concert will feature the works of contemporary composers Joe Taylor, Michael Udow, Ney Rosauro, as well as the Baroque genius, G. F. Handel.

On December 12, return to the glittering Gold Ballroom of the Hotel du Pont for Holidays at the Hotel, a delightful evening of festive melodies for the entire family, featuring the talents of Delaware’s own baritone Grant Youngblood and works by Bach and Tchaikovsky.

On February 13, 2024, the final Chamber concert showcases Music of the African Diaspora

The Musicians of the DSO will perform works by influential composers Valerie Coleman, Samuel Coleridge-Taylor, Adolphus Hailstork, Jessie Montgomery, and Carlos Simon.

Subscription packages are available now; single tickets for all concerts will be available for sale starting August 15, 2023. Visit DelawareSymphony.org or call 302.656.7442 for more details.

“We know this season will deliver performances

“We know this season will that audiences of all ages and experience can connect with and enjoy.”

— J.C. Barker, DSO Executive Director J.C. DSO Executive Director

YOUR HOME, YOUR WAY,

Change to fall brings the urge to refresh our indoor and outdoor spaces. From your own design inspiration to professionals who can offer expert advice, measurement, and installation, 2023 brings focus back to home.

It can be quite daunting to get started tackling “dream home” projects. Is it time to redo that old favorite couch in the living room? Or, finally find fun new outdoor pillows to display for spring? Maybe it’s time to finally find the right sheer or texture for draperies in the great room.

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