Judge hears testimony from customers irate over proposed Aqua PA rate hikes
Rep. Sappey: ‘The privatization of water and wastewater in our Commonwealth is a dangerous practice which finally has a bright light shining on it’
By Richard L. Gaw Staff Writer
lend their voices to a public input hearing in opposi-
tion to Aqua Pennsylvania, Inc.’s proposal to increase its water service rates by nearly 19 percent and its wastewater rates by more than 20 percent.
Aqua filed the request to the Public Utility Commission (PUC) on May 24, who ordered an investigation on June 13 to determine the “reasonable-
ness” of the proposed and existing rates and assigned
Photo by Richard L. Gaw
More than 200 Aqua Pennsylvania water and wastewater customers packed the New Garden Township Building on Aug. 8 for a public input hearing, where they expressed their opposition to Aqua’s proposed rate increases.
Moran Farm Development moving forward
By Betsy Brewer Brantner Contributing Writer
The Moran Farm Development is finally moving forward after some delays. Oxford Borough Council overcame what was the last stumbling block for the development during its Aug. 5 meeting.
height change.”
Council member Peggy Russell said that there are concerns about homes on Third Street that might be overshadowed if taller buildings were constructed nearby.
Russell asked, “Can you have the first row of homes staying at 25 feet?”
a special zone just for this.”
Shulski said, “Requirements are different dependent on the lots. This development has certain area of open space which is open to the community.”
The hearing was then
closed and the regular meeting resumed. The motion to adopt was seconded.
Council then voted in favor to adopt the ordinance, except for Russell and council member Amanda Birdwell, who both voted
Borough Council closed the meeting and opened up the public hearing to adopt Ordinance #965-2024 Chapter 27, Zoning, of the Borough of Oxford Code of Ordinances regarding maximum building height in the PD-1 and R-1 Zoning District for Lot Clustering.
It was noted that the hearing only related to zoning districts PD-1 and R-1, and the decision doesn’t affect how many houses would be allowed under the guidelines, just the maximum height.
Beth Thompson, a local resident, spoke during the hearing saying, “It’s a wonderful borough. I moved here from Delaware County and had a historic picture of what is in Oxford. I looked at the neighborhoods, and I’m not against the 35-foot height, but I’d be careful where they go.
“New homes should stay like the neighborhood homes. I took pictures of Sycamore Crossing and would like to keep neighborhoods in kind. On West Locust, almost all of them are ranch homes, and wouldn’t like to see that
She explained that if the first row of homes could have a maximum height of 25 feet, then the other homes that would be 35 feet wouldn’t be right behind the homes that have been there much longer.
Debra Shulski, attorney for the Moran farm development said, “I don’t think I’ve ever seen the height just at 25 feet at any other places. Even mobile homes can be 35 feet.”
Borough Manager Pauline Garcia-Allen said, “We already have all other districts at 35 feet.”
Council member Bill Fitzpatrick said, “Just get it done. Mr. Frost has been more than patient, they can build what they already plan by 35 feet.”
As the discussion continued, Thompson said, “The property is close and has no green space.”
Shulski replied, “I respectfully disagree with that.”
Council member Luke Neidigh said, “We need to get this done or we may lose it.”
Garcia-Allen said, “We should get it done. The borough is not going to create
Kennett Township supervisors vote to increase support of Fire & EMS Regional Commission
By Richard L. Gaw Staff Writer
The Kennett Township Board of Supervisors voted at the Aug. 7 meeting to support the Kennett Fire and EMS Regional Commission (KFERC) in seeking out funding opportunities to help meet future capital equipment needs of KFERC firefighters and EMS personnel.
The board voted in favor of the motion after a presentation by township Manager Alison Dobbins and Director of Finance Amy Heinrich proposed that the township recommend to the KFERC that it increase
its capital contribution to $1.25 million in 2025, with smaller increases over the next four years, which would subsequently raise the township’s contribution to the KFERC by $462,000, an increase of $185,000 over 2024.
The result will see a $48 yearly real estate tax increase for each township household that will help fund the KFERC’s capital equipment needs, but only on the condition that KFERC approves the plan as recommended. If approved, the increase would not be earmarked for facilities.
Currently, the KFERC is
setting aside $750,000 this year to help pay for new fire and EMS vehicles, with that contribution to raise to $1 million in 2025.
Their presentation served as a follow-up to the KFERC’s July 9 meeting, when the results of an updated Fire Apparatus Fleet Review and Assessment Report spelled out major changes that have greatly impacted fire and EMS services.
Among the many challenges fire departments face are:
• Unprecedented increases in vehicle pricing that has seen consistent double-digit price jumps annually since
2021, a severe disruption of the supply chain, and extended delivery times of fire and EMA apparatus that have gone from 10 to 14 months to between 38 to 54 months
• Geographic and topographic challenges facing firefighters and EMS units that require a constant upgrade of vehicles to meet these demands
• Two hospital closures, extended wait times at the remaining facilities, and increasing call volumes that have put major stress on EMS units
• The lack of competition in the Fire and EMS vehicle/apparatus industry
has reduced supply despite the increased demand
• Increases in call volume, that has risen to 146 at the Longwood Fire Company this July as compared to an average of 51 calls per month in 2015
• Pennsylvania has seen a decrease in its number of volunteer firefighters over the last 40 years, from 300,000 to 38,000 -- a loss of 262,000 volunteer firefighters
The original study, conducted in October 2021, reviewed the fire department apparatus, equipment, and maintenance provisions for each fire and
against the motion. In other business, William Fasick, a member of Boy Scout Troop 13, updated council on the 9/11 Memorial being planned for Oxford Memorial Park.
Aqua PA...
Continued from Page 1A
the investigation to administrative law judges Gail M. Chiodo and Alphonso Arnold III, who are compiling testimony from all nine public input hearings that were scheduled by the PUC in Luzerne, Montgomery, Delaware and Chester counties from Aug. 1 to 12. Representing Aqua, attorney Kimberly Joyce told the audience that the company filed the rate proposal with the PUC “in order to recover water and wastewater infrastructure improvements that Aqua has made throughout the communities that we serve in Pennsylvania,” she said. “These are infrastructure and operational improvements that ensure continued compliance with DEP (Department of Environmental Protection) requirements, maintain water quality, help rehabilitate water and wastewater infrastructure and hopefully protect the environment in the communities that we serve.”
As the public input hearing got underway, it was delayed by 25 minutes while township officials helped usher some of the overflow audience into the building’s lobby.
The two-and-a-halfhour hearing, conducted by Arnold – heard a total of 21 testimonies. Other officials present were representatives from the Bureau of Investigation and Enforcement, the Office of the Small Business Advocate and the Pennsylvania Office of Consumer Advocate.
‘This rate hike would be crushing…’
As the public input hearing got underway, the proverbial elephant in the room was the reality that if the PUC rules in favor of the water giant, the proposed rate hikes would increase Aqua Pennsylvania’s total annual operating revenues by $126.7 million, income that would be reflected in rate hikes.
Audience comments began with testimony from State Sen. John Kane and State Rep. Christina Sappey, who quickly set the tone for the hearing.
“Today, I want to express my deep disdain for Aqua and similar for-profit companies who think they can come into our communities and leave us holding the bill,” Kane said. “Well let me tell you, they have another thing coming if they think they can get away with it. Aqua is proposing to increase our water and wastewater rates significantly, expecting families to dig deeper into their pockets for a basic necessity – our public water.
“This isn’t just about numbers on a bill. This is about the very fabric of our communities. It’s about the right to fair and affordable access to essential services. Companies like Aqua believe they shouldn’t be held accountable, and we say, ‘Enough is enough.’ We are here to remind them that we will not be silenced.”
In her testimony, Sappey encouraged the PUC to reject Aqua’s rate hike proposal and “put the people of the Commonwealth first.”
“The privatization of water and wastewater in our
Commonwealth is a dangerous practice which finally has a bright light shining on it,” she said. “It’s not happening under the radar anymore, and my colleagues in the general assembly and I have taken notice.
“Acquiring water and wastewater authorities and passing the cost onto ratepayers is an unconscionable practice – a practice that is far more prevalent in Pennsylvania than in other states where essential companies are operating. The second aspect of this proposed rate hike is the serious financial impact on low- to middle-wage workers here –workers who are absolutely essential to our local economy and the Commonwealth. These folks are trying to survive in the highest cost-ofliving region in the state. This rate hike would be crushing and likely send these workers over the [state] border, devastating our economy.”
Following Kane and Sappey, Aqua customers shared their testimonies with Arnold. While some referred to their research, compiled in the form of statistics and trends in support of their opposition, others brought the public input hearing into their kitchen table conversations about the impact higher water and wastewater bill would have on their household finances.
New Garden Township resident Clair Aiello testified that if Aqua’s proposal passes, it would lead to a 68.5-percent increase in customers’ bills in just a few years. She said that Aqua customers should not have to pay any part of the company’s shareholder profits and management bonuses.
“Aqua’s latest proposed
pricing seems to be for some customers a decrease,” she said. “However, the base charge would increase for all customers by 23 percent and interestingly, they are decreasing the per-thousand-gallon price by $10.90. We should all be questioning why we are currently being overcharged at $23.26 per thousand gallons. Do we expect a refund?
“Do they know what they are doing? Do they know what the cost really is? How can they -- in what seems very arbitrary -- keep changing prices?”
‘For some, it’s medication or water’
Enrico Guiliante, a New Garden Township resident and Aqua Water ratepayer, said he does not support the proposed increase on behalf of all disabled veterans – like himself -- and seniors who are living on a fixed income.
“I live in a small community of seniors,” he said. “I do not water my yard. I do not have a pool. We do not have guests staying in the home my wife and I share. We do not have children living in this home, and we do not run our water carelessly, but we have a water bill that is hard to pay after living on a fixed income.
“My two-person household
has paid a total of $426.30 for one quarter of water and sewer usage. These costs and the proposed rate increase are outrageous. Aqua Water should not be authorized to have a 20-plus percentage increase in revenue when the majority of our country only receives a one to three percent [cost of living] increase. This practice has caused an average, middle-income household to fall into poverty. For some, it is their medication or water.”
As they have expressed on several social media sources and at township meetings, several audience members took aim at Act 12, which allows private, for-profit companies like Aqua Pennsylvania to acquire municipal water and sewer systems, such as the wastewater system in New Garden Township it purchased from the township in 2020.
Enacted in Pennsylvania in 2016, the law allows companies like Aqua Water to purchase systems at potentially inflated prices, which often leads to higher consumer rates.
While the PUC has made changes to the Act in an effort to increase transparency and oversight, critics of the changes believe that the law still incentivizes for-profit companies to make deals that
may not be in the best interests of their customers.
New Garden Township resident Bob Francois urged the need for the water giant to come clean regarding the entirety of both sides of their economic ledger. “[Aqua] should be required to demonstrate – not just on the revenue side but on the cost side -- and not why costs are going up and what’s increasing, but what are they doing about it?” Francois said. “Are they applying creative destruction to reinvent parts of the business? Are they consolidating where possible?
“If you don’t demand transparency on both sides of the income statement, it really risks asking for more money to keep feeding the machine.” Sappey said after the meeting that her office will explore ways to allow more Aqua customers to provide their testimony. In addition, she said that she is considering writing to the auditor general to request a public audit in order to ratchet up the investigation of the proposal, as well as contact the state attorney general.
“I’m thrilled with the turnout and I am even more thrilled with the number of people who were willing to testify, because it can be intimidating when you’re standing in front of someone with a robe on,” said Sappey. “It just goes to show how closely our residents are paying attention to this issue, how angry they are and how unfair this is. This comes down to several different things, but it comes down to fairness aspect. They are making their profits on the backs of our working people, our small businesses and our retirees.”
Chiodo and Arnold will review the written and oral testimonies from the hearings and render a recommended decision in late November. Subsequently, the five members of the PUC will review Chiodo and Arnold’s decision.
The PUC’s final decision on Aqua’s proposed rate increase is due on Feb. 22, 2025. To
State Sen. John Kane joined State Rep. Christina Sappey in providing testimony that opposed the proposed rate hike.
Photos by Richard L. Gaw
Presiding Administrative Law Judge Alphonso Arnold III confers with attorneys before the hearing.
Aspiring superintendents take part in leadership academy
The Chester County Intermediate Unit’s (CCIU) Suburban Schools Study Council recently completed the Aspiring Superintendent Leadership Academy. This comprehensive program, designed to prepare future educational leaders, concluded its sessions with high recommendations and great reviews from the 20 participants.
The Aspiring Superintendents Leadership Academy was led by CCIU Executive Director Dr. George F. Fiore, and it drew participants from various school districts in southeastern Pennsylvania. The goal is to equip aspiring superintendents with essential skills and knowledge for effective educational leadership. The program included four halfday sessions focusing on the nature of the superintendency, board relations, crisis management, and fiscal management. Participants included assistant superintendents, directors, and principals
Moran Farm Development...
Continued from Page 1A
The monument has been installed and Fasick is just finalizing paperwork. The engraver will finish his work and a public presentation date will be announced.
Krys Sipple, the executive director of the Oxford Area Historical Association (OAHA), updated council on the progress the organization has made in recent months. Sipple is working as the consultant for OAHA until 2027. She told council that OAHA continues to grow its budget, making the organization sustainable. They will purchase the building at 119 S. 5th St. They have worked with the owner and have two years to insure a payment of $700,000. They are paying rent for 5,000 a month. Fund-raising the $700,000 is a major part of what OAHA is doing. They will also be installing an elevator with help from the state.
Sipple explained, “We are accumulating many historic items from attics and barns. We have had two exhibits so far and plan many more.”
OAHA is and will be working with Oxford Schools and Lincoln University as they move forward.
“We are story keepers,” Sipple said. “We want to bring people together. We are working with two professors from Lincoln University and we are hoping to start an internship with them.” They are also working with the Oxford Regional Planning Committee and their historical sub-committee. They have reached out to other municipalities and offered them space for their
Continued from Page 1A
EMS member unit. The overall goal of the study was to provide KFERC with a long-range plan that included replacement strategies, financial planning, and a fleet improvement plan. These goals, if implemented correctly, ensure
from Chester, Delaware, Montgomery, and Berks counties.
Each session featured distinguished panels of school district superintendents who shared their experiences and answered questions.
Panelists included Dr. Ken Bachelor from Radnor Township School District, Dr. Susan Elliott from Upper Moreland School District, Dr. M. Christopher Marchese from Avon Grove School District, and Dr. John Sanville from Unionville-Chadds Ford School District. Other notable contributors were Dr. Marc Bertrando of Garnet Valley School District, Dr. Tina Kane of Marple Newtown School District, Mr. Christian Temchatin of Kutztown Area School District, and Dr. MaryJo Yannacone of the School District of Springfield Township. The panel was further enriched by the insights of Dr. Ryan Axe from Manheim Central School District, Dr. Daniel
records. West Nottingham Township has has taken them up on that offer. The goal is to ensure that no history is lost.
“We are preserving stories and history and also plan to serve as a tourist bureau. We are working with the Chester County 250th Commission and the America 250 Commission,” Sipple said.
A bluegrass festival is planned in September, and will have their first national exhibit focused on women in Old Timey (Old Time) music, including Ola Belle Reed. The concert and exhibit will raise operating money and awareness.
“We are asking for 5,000 a year pledge from the Borough,” Simple said. “We will look for a staff person for 2027 and we will be working on grants.”
OAHA is open on Tuesday and Wednesday from 9 a.m. to noon and it is also open one weekend day a month.
Sgt. Chris Coverly provided the June police report to council. There were 290 police involvements for the month, which brings the total involvements to over 2,500 for the year. There were also six criminal arrests during the month, Coverly said.
It was also noted that 12 teens from the Waterway Church Youth Group power-washed and painted the Oxford Police Department building.
In other police business, the Civil Service Commission did post for a full-time eligibility list. Applications should be in by Sept. 6.
Coverly also said that Camp Cadet will be held at nearby Camp Saginaw. Two Oxford officers, Jamie Cruz
safe operations and deployment practices as well as increased fire protection within the community.
“This is a county-wide problem, and it’s also a country-wide problem. It’s everywhere,” supervisor Pat Muller said of the necessary increases to fund fire and EMS services. “It is something that is rapidly changing, and we have been very proactive here
Goffredo from Great Valley School District, Dr.Maureen Reusche from the School District of Haverford Township, and Dr. Allyn Roche from Upper Perkiomen School District.
During the board relations session, aspiring superintendents also benefited from experiences shared by school board members.
These included Dr. Victoria Gehrt, president of Kennett Consolidated School District, Amy Goldman, president of Radnor Township School District and former sectional advisor of the Pennsylvania School Boards Association (PSBA), Jeff Hellrung, policy chair of UnionvilleChadds Ford School District and vice president of the Chester County Intermediate Unit Board of Directors and Bonnie Wolff, who is President of Avon Grove School Board and president of the Chester County Intermediate Unit Board of Directors.
and Shakira Greer, will be helping with the children. The camp is running from Aug. 11 to Aug. 16.
Garcia-Allen reported that paving work on Hodgson and Eighth Street is starting. The contractor work will stop at 5 p.m.
The Community of Love Lutheran Church construction work has begun and should be completed by the end of September. Studio Blush was also thanked for their cooperation.
The Market Street and 6th Street damage to the fire hydrant that was caused by a tractor trailer in March will be completed by PennDOT and should be done by the end of August. Penonni Engineers will be analyzing the turning radius there.
Borough council also approved the following motions:
• Acceptance of the 30-day extension, which will run through Sept. 30, 2024, for review of Enox Land LP’s preliminary land development plan of the Moran Farm property.
• Approval of the Special Event Permit Application for the Oxford Chamber of Commerce Halloween Parade on Oct. 24, from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m., conditioned upon payment of $850 for this event, which is the 50 percent deposit for one-third of the cost to provide police services.
• Approval of the Special Event Permit Application for Oxford Mainstreet, Inc. Car Show on Sept. 9 from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m., also conditioned upon payment to cover the cost to provide police services.
• Approval of the Special Event Permit Application for KVIS & Coe Insurance Company for the Carnival
in Kennett Township in exploring alternatives.
“I think [the proposal] is necessary. As much as we’re all going to have to take a deep breath and put another notch in our belt, I don’t think we have any other choice. I think we need to move forward.”
To contact Staff Writer Richard L. Gaw, email rgaw@chestercounty.com.
The success of the Aspiring Superintendents Leadership Academy underscores CCIU’s commitment to fostering a
of Life event on Sept. 14 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on the KVIS & Coe property at 123 E. Locust Street.
• Approval of a letter to townships in support of funding to the Oxford Library and Oxford Area
strong, competent, and visionary educational leadership pipeline. By enhancing the skills and confidence of aspiring
Recreation Authority.
• Approval of a motion to participate in a grant application. Garcia-Allen told council that the grant for the chargers in the parking garage that the borough will be working with Lincoln
superintendents, the SSSC contributes significantly to the quality of education and student outcomes in southeastern Pennsylvania.
University on will have a zero cost to the borough. Lincoln University will be the lead on the project and will work with the borough. The next Oxford Borough Council meeting will be held on Sept. 9 at 7 p.m.
Enjoy local art, handmade bags, artisan crafted jewelry, locally made yarn, handmade soaps & lotions, apparel, accessories and home décor. Browse through a large selection of antiques and anything from Mid-century modern furniture to retro kitchen wares. Discover soft alpaca items, hand-blown Egyptian glass, lavender products and goods produced in Chester County, PA! Find local produce, seasonal locally made dairy products, baked goods and local meats. Have fun petting farm animals along the way: Cows, Goats, Chickens and even Alpacas! You can enjoy
19 amazing businesses have rolled out the welcome mat and are excited for you to enjoy this special event! During the tour dates of September 5-21, 2024, you will travel in your own vehicle, on your own time, visiting the featured stops. Every business is offering a valuable coupon and will have something special planned for you—refreshments, games, gifts and more! You can take the tour for 1 day or 16! It’s up to you. Your ticket is valid the entire time. -
taining promotional items or small treats from some of the businesses—so reserve NOW. Every ticket contains a tour guide that lists the name, address and description of each business, a map to get you around, the calendar of extra events and coupons from each business. Also included: Entry forms/rules to participate in our tour drawings for chances to win gift cards from the featured tour stops. A total of $615 in gift cards will be given away!
Sounds amazing, right? But the big question is—How does this help our community? Shopping small and shopping local puts money back into our neighborhoods. For every $100 spent in locally owned independent stores, $68 returns to the community compared to $43 spent in a national chain or as low as $0 spent online.
Courtesy photo
Pictured, from left, are Dr. Scott Hand, Dr. Jennifer Saksa, Dr. Leslee Hutchinson, Dr. Lawrence Cannon, Dr. Jessica Kilmetz, Dr. Jeremy Curtis, Dr. Andrea Farina, Dr. Che Regina, Dr. Nicole Addis, Mr. Cale Hilbolt, Dr. Leah Reider, Dr. Jonathan Propper, Dr. Amy Jenkins, Dr. George F. Fiore at the Aspiring Superintendent Leadership Academy (Not pictured: Mr. Brad Bentman, Dr. Lawrence Cannon, Mr. Bill Dougherty, Dr. Damian Johnston, Dr. Adam Penning, Dr. Edward Smith and Dr. Joanna Wexler.)
Kennett Township...
Chester County Sheriff’s Office deputy Kelly McGonigal completes national instructor training program
The Department of Homeland Security training program focuses on law enforcement control tactics
Chester County Deputy Sheriff Kelly McGonigal recently completed the prestigious law enforcement control tactics instructor training program offered by the Department of Homeland Security.
A four-year veteran of the Chester County Sheriff’s Office, McGonigal was motivated to advance her career in law enforcement through this training course, reinforcing to her passion for making a positive impact in the lives of others.
Chester County Sheriff Kevin Dykes and his team congratulated McGonigal
on this achievement.
“This Office recognizes the increased need for law enforcement to be trained on how to de-escalate potential situations of conflict as safely and efficiently as possible, and I thank Kelly for her investment in time and effort to successfully complete the course,” said Dykes.
Reflecting on the impact of the program, Deputy McGonigal expressed her gratitude for the invaluable experience and expertise provided by the program instructors.
“The training was an incredible journey,” said
McGonigal. “It enhanced my confidence level and reinforced the notion that we are more capable than we often realize when pushed out of our comfort zones.”
When asked about the most valuable lesson she learned, McGonigal noted, “The program equips everyone to take control in various situations. It doesn’t matter what your ability level or confidence level is prior to the program, the training prepares everyone to de-escalate and control these situations in the best way possible.”
The law enforcement control tactics training program
is a physically demanding and intensive training program. It provides foundational training to prepare new instructors to deliver law enforcement training in critical areas such as arrest and control tactics and techniques, intermediate weapons, and defense against spontaneous attacks. The program also includes instruction on threat assessment and response, use of force, injury management, and familiarization with electronic control devices.
Throughout the program, McGonigal acquired a comprehensive understanding of these tactical techniques and
communication skills, allowing her to effectively manage challenging situations while prioritizing the safety and well-being of all individuals involved.
McGonigal’s successful completion of the law enforcement control tactics instructor training program highlights the Chester County Sheriff’s Office ongoing commitment to excellence and the advancement of law enforcement standards.
Added Dykes, “Everyone in the Chester County Sheriff’s Office is proud of Deputy Kelly McGonigal. Her completion of this pro-
Chester County awarded $800,000 in state funding to combat homelessness
Chester County’s focus on ending homelessness recently received an $800,000 boost with a grant awarded by the Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency (PHFA).
PHFA’s Pennsylvania Housing Affordability and Rehabilitation Enhancement – or PHARE – funds will expand the county’s current effort to support those who are experiencing homelessness, with the goal of helping them to become safely and permanently housed.
“This grant is great news for Chester County, and it is a testament to the staff in our Department of Community Development who, every day, seek to find homes for those who do not have them, and help those who
have homes keep them,” said Josh Maxwell, the chair of the Board of County Commissioners. “The team prepared a compelling application for the funding, noting the effective programs and strategies that we have in place, and how the additional funding will be effective and measurable.”
The activities that will be funded under the PHARE grant include support for Chester County’s 211 Call Center, expansion of the County’s Street Outreach Team, emergency housing coordination and strategic plan effort for Chester County’s Partnership to End Homelessness initiative.
Chester County Commissioner Marian
Moskowitz said, “A large portion of this grant will contribute to the 211 Call Center – located right here in Chester County – which is the single point of entry for people experiencing a housing crisis or who need emergency housing resources. Calling 211 helps to determine the housing need, which can lead to connections with Chester County’s Street Outreach Team – another service that will be expanded thanks to this PHARE funding.”
Since the PHARE funding began in 2018, Chester County’s Department of Community Development has received a total of $3.1 million to enhance and expand efforts to prevent and end homelessness.
“One of the greatest benefits of the PHARE program is that the funds are provided to meet locally-identified needs,” said Chester County Commissioner Eric Roe. “Our application explains how the grant can best support our strategies, programs and efforts to prevent and end homelessness right here in Chester County, which leads to real impact.”
In addition to Chester County’s Department of Community Development, 14 other county organizations received PHARE grants totaling more than $3 million. Many of these organizations are part of the Chester County Partnership to End Homelessness network.
Funding for the PHARE
awards comes from two main sources. Since 2012, the program has received a portion of the impact fees collected from natural gas companies operating in Pennsylvania
with a goal of addressing the housing shortage caused by the impact of drilling. That is supplemented with funding provided by a portion of the realty transfer tax.
Live on
the Lawn set for Aug. 17
Music comes to the Oxford Area Recreation Authority Park in a new and exciting event —Live on the Lawn on Saturday, Aug. 17.
This free event will feature live music, food, and a fun zone for children. On the stage, guests will enjoy music by Don McAvoy and the Great Whatever, Across the Tracks Bluegrass Band, and The Crossbucks.
Stop by the park at 900 W. Locust Street in Oxford from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Food and treats will be sold by 22 BBQ and Cajun-Sno.
Please bring blankets or lawn chairs for seating. No coolers or outside food or drinks are permitted.
Live on the Lawn is possible due to the generous support of these sponsors, including PECO, Xfinity, Chew’s Towing, The Barn of Nottingham, Herr Foods, Inc., and Landhope Farms.
For more information, please visit the OARA website at oarapark.wixsite.com/oxfordrecreation/events.
Courtesy photo Chester County Deputy Sheriff Kelly McGonigal.
Courtesy photo
Support for the story keepers of our shared history
The Oxford Area Historical Association recently reiterated its plan to purchase a building on South 5th Street in Oxford to serve as a permanent home for the organization and its collection of local history.
Krys Sipple, the executive director of the Oxford Area Historical Association, recently provided Oxford Borough Council with an update about the plans moving forward, including the effort to partner with Oxford schools and Lincoln University. The Oxford Area Historical Association has also reached out to other municipalities in the Oxford area and offered them space for their records.
“We are story keepers,” Sipple said.
Sipple said that the Oxford Area Historical Association would be seeking an annual pledge of $5,000 from Oxford Borough.
It’s important to support these story keepers of our shared history. We hope that Oxford Borough officials can find a way to offer some modest financial support.
It makes a lot of sense for the Oxford Area Historical Association to work with Lincoln University and all the municipalities in the area.
We hope that the Oxford Area Historical Association finds the financial support, the cooperation of municipalities, and the volunteers that it needs to succeed in the effort to establish a permanent home.
Schools open, drive carefully
With schools set to open for the 2024-2025 school year, it’s a good time consider the importance of driving carefully in school zones and areas where school children might be driving and walking.
For generations, students saw the ‘Schools Open, Drive Carefully’ message that was promoted by AAA for 77 years. AAA launched this campaign nationally in 1946 to help reduce the number of school-related pedestrian injuries and fatalities.
The message is more relevant than ever—drivers and walkers alike have never been more distracted.
With school buses back on the roads, motorists should give themselves extra time so that they can be prepared to stop when buses do. Motorists should also be cognizant of less-experienced students drivers returning to high school and college.
We can all use a reminder to slow down, especially in school zones, and to always stop for a school bus when the lights are flashing. We should also obey crossing guards, check the mirrors before moving in areas with a lot of pedestrians, and put the cell phones down when driving.
We all need to be more careful with schools open again. It’s the responsible thing to do. It’s the necessary thing to do.
Kudos to the CCIU
The Chester County Intermediate Unit (CCIU) has helped facilitate many of the recent superintendent searches for school districts in Chester County. Now, the CCIU is helping to prepare the next generation of superintendents.
The CCIU helped plan the Aspiring Superintendent Leadership Academy. Participants included assistant superintendents, directors, and principals from Chester, Delaware, Montgomery, and Berks counties. A number of panelists are familiar to southern Chester County residents: Dr. Ken Bachelor from Radnor Township School District, Dr. M. Christopher Marchese from Avon Grove School District, and Dr. John Sanville from Unionville-Chadds Ford School District. Other notable contributors were school board members including Dr. Victoria Gehrt, president of Kennett Consolidated School District Board; Jeff Hellrung, a member of the Unionville-Chadds Ford School District and; Bonnie Wolff, president of the Avon Grove School Board.
Kudos to the CCIU for helping to plan this leadership academy. It can only help those who participated. It wouldn’t be surprising if some of the 20 participants in this leadership academy end up being the top administrator in some of the local school districts.
Pa. needs to join growing number of states to request a term limits amendment
By John Eichelberger and Andy Dinniman
Despite a history of widespread support among voters of all political affiliations, congressional term limits have not aroused the passion that so many other issues have.
Until now, that is. A poll by Pew showed that support for congressional term limits has risen to 87 percent, the highest ever recorded. To put this number in context, it rivals Harry Truman’s popularity at V-E Day. Even more importantly, those polled said that in a contest between a candidate who supported term limits for Congress and one who did not, it would be the deciding issue for them, meaning that voter intensity for term limits is now rivaling that of various hot-button issues. What is causing this groundswell of support and intensity for term limits? There are many reasons. One is the well-publicized instances of various longterm Senators publicly exhibiting what appear to be symptoms of cognitive decline. Considered the world’s greatest deliberative body, the Senate has some members who appear to be visiting from a high-end assisted living facility. In addition, the daily dysfunction we see in Congress and
the failure to offer fundamental solutions to the issues we face have led voters to realize we must do better. Congressional term limits are the solution. But Congress will never term limit themselves, right?
Probably not. Last year, House Joint Resolution 11 by Representative Ralph Norman of South Carolina, with over 100 co-sponsors, would have set terms for the House of Representatives at 3 terms – 6 years and the Senate at 2 terms - 12 years. The bill was defeated by a committee vote of 19-17.
In the Senate, Senate Joint Resolution 2, sponsored by Texas Senator Ted Cruz, is stalled with opposition by both Chuck Schumer and Mitch McConnell.
It is sad that the self-interest to be elected again and again is more important to many in Congress than restoring a vibrant citizen-based democracy. If Congress is going to sit on its hands, what can be done? One way forward is for the states to address the issue. But how?
The answer is by calling for a convention to adopt a congressional term limits amendment. When enough states request a convention to add a term limits amendment to the Constitution, Congress is bypassed and the amendment can be proposed by the states for ratification.
Florida, Alabama, Louisiana, Missouri, Oklahoma, Wisconsin, Tennessee, and West Virginia – have called for a limited convention to propose a congressional term limits amendment to the Constitution. Pennsylvania could soon join this growing roster of states if the legislature will pass the resolution.
Once passed, Pennsylvania will go on record calling for an amendment convention to discuss and, if agreed upon, adopt an amendment to set congressional term limits that would then need to be approved by three-fourths of the states. With overwhelming support among voters, congressional term limits will become a reality. Congress can do the right thing and propose their own term limits or sit idly by and watch the states do it for them.
Setting congressional term limits would take power away from the Washington insiders and lobbyists and put it back to where it belongs – with the citizens of the states. For far too long, we have seen how staying in office for decades leads some of our elected officials to forget that they serve the voters, not the entrenched special interests that reside in Washington. As Benjamin Franklin (who supported term limits) aptly said, “In
Social Security Matters
free governments, the rulers are the servants, and the people their superiors…For the former to return among the latter does not degrade but promote them.”
It would lead to a Congress that is more responsive to the issues facing everyday Americans with real solutions for our nation, not the chaos we see daily in Washington and setting congressional term limits will be a step toward ending the polarized division in our nation. It will restore balance in our electoral process and once again empower voters.
Let’s put the Keystone State on record as supporting congressional term limits. Call your state Senator and Representative today and ask for their commitment. Let them hear from the 87 percent of their electorate that want action.
John Eichelberger and Andy Dinniman are former Pennsylvania State Senators and Pennsylvania State Co-Chairs for U.S. Term Limits. U.S. Term Limits is the largest grassroots term limits advocacy group in the country. We connect term limits supporters with their legislators and work to pass term limits at all levels of government, particularly on the U.S. Congress. Find out more at termlimits.org.
Social Security credits— explained
By Russell Gloor, national Social Security advisor at the AMAC Foundation
Dear Rusty: For a 30-year period, I was making a living as an independent contractor and freelancer. I was working on behalf of myself. Thus, I was only paying state and federal taxes when applied. Due to changes in the employment landscape, I wish to apply for benefits at age sixty-four, as receiving said Social Security benefits would serve as supplemental income to what I would be receiving from outside sources. I recently discovered through the SSA that I do not have enough “points” to apply for Social Security benefits. What would be the method to obtain those required points in order to receive benefits? Signed: Needing Points
Dear Needing: Social Security is an earned benefit, and eligibility is attained by contributing to SS through FICA payroll taxes, or SelfEmployment (SECA) tax on your net earnings from self-employment, over your lifetime. You must have at least 40 “quarters of credit” to be eligible for Social Security benefits – essentially you must work one quarter of each year earning at least a specified amount during that quarter to earn one credit, and you can earn a maximum of 4 credits for each year you work. The amount of earnings per credit varies each year, but for 2024, work earnings of $1,730 give you one credit (annual work earnings of $6,920 earn 4 credits). Usually, you must contribute to Social Security for about 10 years to be eligible for benefits. You must have earned at least 40 quarter credits to collect Social
Security retirement benefits/
If you have less than 40 you are not eligible for Social Security retirement benefits. For self-employed individuals, SECA SS tax is paid when you file your federal income tax return - you pay into Social Security when filing your annual SelfEmployment income tax return (the self-employed must pay both the employee and the employer portion of Social Security tax). If you did not file an income tax return for each year over your lifetime you were self-employed, you didn’t earn any SS credits for that year. You pay SECA tax on your NET earnings from self-employment (after all business expenses are deducted).
If you are just a few credits short of the 40 necessary to be eligible for benefits, you can still earn those extra credits needed by working and paying SS FICA or SECA taxes on your work earnings. For each $1,730 earned this year, you will earn one SS credit, up to a maximum of 4 per year. But you must contribute to Social Security from those earnings – if you work as a company employee you will have FICA taxes withheld from your earnings, and if you are still self-employed you would need to pay SECA taxes on net earnings over $6,920 when you file your self-employment income tax return. You would need to do that for as long as it takes for you to attain the minimum 40
quarter credits needed to be eligible for Social Security retirement benefits. (FYI: you cannot “buy” the extra points needed; you need to earn them by working and contributing to Social Security from your earnings). One final point: whenever Social Security benefits are claimed before one’s full retirement age (FRA) Social Security’s “earnings test” applies. The earnings test limits how much you can earn from working before some of your Social Security benefits are taken away. The earnings test no longer applies after you reach your FRA and, if you turned 64 this year, your FRA is 67. Self-employed individuals are also subject to an hourly limit of 15 to 45 working hours per month in their first year of early retirement.
This article is intended for information purposes only and does not represent legal or financial guidance. It presents the opinions and interpretations of the AMAC Foundation’s staff, trained and accredited by the National Social Security Association (NSSA). NSSA and the AMAC Foundation and its staff are not affiliated with or endorsed by the Social Security Administration or any other governmental entity. To submit a question, visit our website (amacfoundation.org/programs/ social-security-advisory) or email us at ssadvisor@amacfoundation.org.
‘Our misfortune has truly turned into fortune’
Tick Tock Early Learning Center rallies after extensive storm damage
By Gabbie Burton Contributing Writer
Tick Tock Early Learning Center in Avondale was preparing to hold their 60th anniversary celebrations in August when a mid-July storm threatened their plans. The storm uprooted a tree outside the center, and little did the staff know how much else was uprooted with it.
“We had no idea what this tree meant to us,” said executive director Susan Kuebler Czerwin.
The storm on July 16 damaged the outdoor space of the center including the playground and caused a two-day power outage that resulted in about $6,000 in lost food. When Kuebler Czerwin posted on Facebook to share the damage caused by the storm and the loss of the tree, a fuller picture about the tree’s history started to come together.
In response to the post, Rich Nichols of Bob’s Crane Service – and the son of Connie Nichols, one of the center’s founders -- reached out to offer his services to clean up the playground. Nichols and his crew volunteered their time to clean up the outdoor space, removing
“every speck of sawdust,” and debris caused by the fallen tree and branches. He also suggested reaching out to another founder, Sally Lighty, whose husband, Richard planted the original tree 60 years ago when the center was founded.
After hearing about the lost tree and the devastation it caused, Lighty and her husband volunteered to buy a new tree to replace it.
“The playgrounds were designed around this tree, and it provided massive shade and a place to gather,” Kuebler Czerwin said.
“It was more than just shade though it was a meaningful spot for the center and for the children.”
On Aug. 2, the center held a tree planting and 60th birthday celebration. Current staff, founders and family members, board members and children enrolled in the center all gathered to share memories about the fallen tree and dedicate and plant the new tree and enjoy birthday cake.
“It was one of the most special moments we’ve shared since I’ve been there,” Kuebler Czerwin said. “This happened and look what came out of it, this beautiful story of support.”
Community members rallied together to help Tick Tock beyond just the damaged tree. Donations came in, anonymous checks were received in the mail and one community member has even volunteered to make benches out of the fallen tree’s logs.
“This is how Tick Tock
KSQ Barber Lounge gave free haircuts for school
By Chris Barber Contributing Writer
Mark Avery, who operates KSQ Barber Lounge in the 100 block of East State Street in Kennett Square, gave out free kids’ haircuts for school on Monday at his shop.
He said he called them
“Back-to-school cuts.”
“I’m a 2006 graduate of Kennett [High School]. I always like doing something for the
community. It’s something I really like to do,” he said. A lifelong borough resident, he said the day of cuts was organized by Kathy Tedesco, who operates Hometown Groups Hair Salon.
Tedesco said she was supported by the non-profit Kennett Area Community Service (KASC) who also helped her supply the kids with free backpacks filled with classroom supplies. She was on hand at the
hair-cutting event with two helpers who are nurses. They checked the kids for lice before they went in for the cut.
“I always look for ways to give back to the community,” Tedesco said. She added that she got the word out about the haircuts on social media.
was started 60 years ago as a total community effort, and here we are now and the same thing is happening to keep us going,” Kuebler Czerwin said.
The importance of community for Tick Tock Early Learning Center is essential. As a non-profit that provides childcare to children of working fami-
lies, the center subsidizes tuition, sometimes up to 70 percent, in order to support local workers and their children. The center relies on grants, charitable foundations and donors in order to maintain their mission and provide care to the 95 children enrolled.
Though the storm’s damage was extensive, the
rallying effort of the Tick Tock community has left the center feeling optimistic and supported.
“Our misfortune has truly turned into fortune,” Kuebler Czerwin said. Tick Tock Early Learning Center is located at 1694 Baltimore Pike in Avondale. To learn more, visit www. ticktockelc.org.
Photo by Chris Barber Barber Mark Avery cuts the hair of Elmer Lopez, 11, at his shop in Kennett Square.
The planting of the new tree was assisted by a few of Tick Tock’s students.
Courtesy photos
Tick Tock Early Learning Center celebrated its 60th anniversary on Aug. 2 with the planting of a new tree that will replace the one damaged in a recent storm that was originally planted when the center first opened.
The original tree suffered severe damage after a July 16 storm.
BARBARA LOUISE YEATMAN
Barbara Louise Yeatman, 88, of Kennett Square, passed away on Aug. 5, 2024 at Crosslands in Kennett Square.
She was the wife of the late C. James Yeatman, with whom she shared 56 years of marriage. Born in Wilmington, Del., she was the daughter of the late George Kleitz and the late Katherine (Weidel) Kleitz.
Barbara had a contagious sense of humor and a unique ability to laugh at just about anything, especially at herself. She was never in a bad mood. She will be remembered for walking in the woods with her beloved dogs, traveling around the continent with her husband in their motor home, baking holiday cookies with her grandchildren, making bread, woodworking, reading, playing and watching tennis, and making mushroom soup, mushroom salad, and pickled mushrooms. Most of all, Barbara will be remembered for her kind spirit and her unconditional love for her family.
Barbara is survived by her daughter, Jennifer Yeatman, and her sons, Steven Yeatman (Judy) and Jerry Yeatman (Judy), as well as her grandchildren, Kari Yorkston
(Joe), Jessica Yorkston (Jason), Jason Yeatman, Sara Peterson (Brandon), Emily Yeatman (Christel), Lucy Leedy (David), Jane Ganse (Conor), and Lydia Yeatman, and great-grandchildren, Jalen, Charlee, and Weston. Barbara is also survived by the Kleitz family from Delaware.
In addition to her husband and her parents, she was predeceased by her brother, Jack Kleitz.
You are invited to visit with Barbara’s family and friends from 11 a.m. to noon on Saturday, Aug. 24 at the William Penn Room in the Community Center at Crosslands Community, 1660 Street Road in Kennett Square. Parking is in Parking Lot 3. The memorial service will follow at noon.
Interment will be held privately.
Contributions in her memory may be made to Canine Partners for Life https://k94life.org/donate/ or checks can be mailed to Canine Partners for Life at P.O. Box 170, Cochranville, Pa. 19330.
Arrangements are being handled by Matthew Grieco of Grieco Funeral Home & Crematory, Inc. (484-7348100) of Kennett Square.
To view Barbara’s online obituary and leave condolences, please visit www.griecofunerals.com.
Howard O. Urbine, Jr., of Oxford, passed away on Aug. 5, 2024 while at home. He was 80. He was the husband of Holly L. Giles Urbine, with whom he shared 40 years of marriage. Born in Media, Pa., he was the son of the late Howard O., Sr. and A. Lorraine Robbins Urbine.
He was a veteran of the U.S. Air Force.
Howard was a member of the UA Local 420 Steamfitters in Philadelphia for 60 years until retiring in 2001. He was also a member of the George Bartram - Paul Sands Masonic Lodge No. 298 in Media.
In his younger years, he enjoyed horseback riding through the fields of Chester County and riding his tractor on the farm.
Howdy, as he was known to his friends, was an avid outdoorsman. He owned a hunting cabin in Tioga County, where he shared his hunting skills with others and taught them how to hunt. Howdy also enjoyed boating, fishing and crabbing on the Eastern Shore in Maryland.
He was a practical joker and had a witty sense of humor. He especially loved teasing and spending time with his grandchildren.
Howdy was a dog lover. He had a dog with him for most of his life.
He is survived by his wife, two children, Howard O. Urbine, III (Diana) of Quarryville and Jennifer Hornickle (Timothy) of West Chester, six grandchildren, Wyatt Urbine, Emma Urbine, Katie Urbine, Annabelle Urbine, Alexander Hornickle and Lillianna Hornickle, his adopted family, David Eppler, Sr. (Jodi), David Eppler, Jr. and Emmalyn Eppler, all of Colorado, and nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his brother, George Davis. Services will be held at a later date.
Arrangements are being handled by the Edward L. Collins, Jr. Funeral Home, Inc. in Oxford.
Online condolences may be made at www.elcollinsfuneralhome.com.
JERICHO ADLER MORAN
Jericho Adler Moran, just 5 days old, passed peacefully into the arms of the Lord on August 4, 2024 at Penn State Health Children’s Hospital in Hershey, Pa. Surrounded by the love of his family, the brief time sweet “JerBear” spent on this earth was a precious gift, filled with pure love and joy.
Jericho was the cherished son of David W. Moran, III, and Marissa L. Pfeffer of Nottingham. Born a fighter, he touched many hearts in his short time. Now, he rests in the eternal embrace of Heaven. Jericho was preceded in death by his paternal greatgrandfather, David W. Moran, Sr. Jericho is survived by his devoted parents; his maternal grandparents, Jason M. Pfeffer of Paulsboro, N.J., and Lillie Mae Yearicks Sanchez Sosa of Brunswick, N.J.; paternal grandparents, David W., Jr., and Corinna (Freese) Moran of Nottingham; maternal great-grandparents, Barry Pfeffer of Paulsboro, N.J., and Sharon A. Pfeffer of Quarryville; paternal great-grandparents, Walter and Joyce Kimble of Nottingham and Jim and Doann Freese of Oxford; and maternal great-aunt, Kristy L. Pfeffer of Willow Street. He is also survived by many loving aunts, uncles, and cousins who will carry his memory in their hearts.
Though he is no longer with them, Jer-Bear’s spirit will live on in the hearts of his family until they are reunited in Heaven.
Services are private.
Arrangements are being handled by the Edward L. Collins, Jr. Funeral Home, Inc. in Oxford.
Obituary submissions
The Chester County Press publishes obituaries free of charge for funeral homes with active advertising accounts only. Others with a connection to southern Chester County are charged a modest fee. Obituaries appear on the Wednesday after they are received with a Monday 5 p.m. deadline. They are also posted on www.chestercounty.com. Photos should be sent as .jpeg attachments to the obituary text. To submit an obituary to the Chester County Press or for a rate quote, email the information to editor@chestercounty.com.
JOSEPH R. HITE
Joseph R. Hite, of Newry, Pa., passed away on April 3, 2024 at Genesis Lebanon Center in New Hampshire. He was 92. Joe and Audrey Hamilton Hite shared four daughters, Diane Torello (deceased 2024), Sharon Stentz of Pennsylvania, Mary Jo Mazzonna of Vermont and Cecilia Murphy of New Hampshire.
In his youth, Joe and his siblings (all now deceased) spent time on the family farm, and he was the lead pitcher for the Newry baseball team.
After serving time as a U.S. Army medic in Korea and attending Penn State, he became a design engineer for the DuPont Company. He traveled the world assisting in the design and construction of chemical plants. Following his retirement, Joe loved spending his time ballroom dancing with his longtime companion, Sylvia Dedman, who is also now deceased).
Joe also enjoyed assisting his Amish neighbors, flying his Cessna 172, woodworking, and gardening. Joe could be found at the local Wawa every morning, grabbing his coffee, sharing a donut with his dogs and chatting.
Joe leaves behind his three daughters, three grandchildren, Lauren Stentz (Florida), Chis Mazzonna (Ohio) and Andrew Mazzonna (Colorado), as well as many nieces and nephews. A funeral mass will be held at 1 p.m. on September 7 at St. Patrick’s Church in Newry, where he once served as an altar boy.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Lancaster Farm Sanctuary at 1871 Milton Grove Road, Mount Joy, Pa. 17552.
JAMES ROGER ELDRETH
James Roger Eldreth, of Kennett Square, passed away on Aug. 2, 2024 at Chester County Hospital in West Chester. He was 87. He was the husband of the late Winnie Louise Mains Eldreth. Born in North Carolina, he was the son of the late Lester and Belle Wyatt Eldreth.
James was employed with Union Hill Cemetery in Kennett Square. He retired in 2012 after more than 50 years of service.
He was a member of the Swayne-Campbell-Testa VFW Post 5467 in Kennett Square and the Italian American Club, also in Kennett Square.
He enjoyed watching western movies and game shows.
He is survived by his four children, James L. Eldreth (Janice) of Coatesville, Jerry Eldreth (Wendy) of Quarryville, Alice Eldreth of Kennett Square and Linda Woods (Jerry) of Nottingham. Also surviving are 10 grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren, and one brother, Ronny Eldreth (Dot) of North Carolina.
He was preceded in death by a daughter, Janet S. Hudson, and two brothers, Millard Raymond Eldreth and Brian Eldreth.
Services are private.
Arrangements are being handled by the Edward L. Collins, Jr. Funeral Home, Inc. (www.elcollinsfuneralhome.com) in Oxford.
ERIKA MARIA CHASE
Erika Maria (Reinhardt) Chase passed away peacefully at the age of 95 while surrounded by family at her home on August 3, 2024.
Erika was born on February 6, 1929 in Lancaster, Pa. and was the daughter of the late Frida and Alfred Reinhardt. She was the younger sister of the late Margaret Myers and the loving wife of the late E. Harvey Chase, Jr.
Erika started her career as a legal secretary for Judge Appel in Lancaster and she then worked at DuPont Louviers as a secretary until she became a loving mother.
Erika loved antiquing, putting together jigsaw puzzles, and she was always up for a game of Rummy, Spite and Malice or Pinochle, where she happily beat everyone. She spent hours canning and freezing items from the garden, and making beautiful needlepoint pictures. She later developed a passion for Seek-and-Finds and
cheering (or hollering) at the Phillies. Her constant companion for many years was Lucy, a dog that the family found for her at Red Rock Rescue. She is survived by her children, Erika L. Chase, Laura Snyder (Steve) and Harvey R. Chase, grandchildren, Brandon Snyder (Danielle) and Corey Snyder, and great-granddaughter, Harper Snyder.
Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, Aug. 16 at New London Presbyterian Church, 1986 Newark Road in New London, where friends may visit from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m.
Interment will be in the adjoining church cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Red Rock Rescue, Inc., PO Box 162, WalnutPort, PA 18088, www.redrockrescueinc.com or Willow Tree Hospice, 616 E. Cypress Street, Kennett Square, Pa. 19348.
Arrangements are being handled by the Edward L. Collins, Jr. Funeral Home, Inc. in Oxford. Online condolences may be made at www.elcollinsfuneralhome.com.
DCCC recognized for its commitment to first-generation college students
FirstGen Forward, formerly the Center for First-Generation Student Success, recently announced Delaware County Community College as one of 80 new members of the FirstGen Forward Network for 2024-25.
To be selected as a FirstGen Forward Network member, DCCC displayed a demonstrated commitment to improving experiences and advancing success for first-generation college students.
“We are extremely honored to be selected as a member of the FirstGen Forward Network,” said Delaware County Community College President Marta Yera
ESTATE NOTICE
Estate of Joyce Carol Farkas, late of Exton, 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 Jeffrey Farkas, Executor, 27 Manor Lane, Morris Plains NJ 07950 8p-7-3t
ESTATE NOTICE
ESTATE OF VIRGINIA C.
MELRATH, LATE OF Oxford, 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 SUSAN
MELRATH, Executor C/O Attorney: Ira D. Binder, 227 Cullen
Cronin, Ed.D. “We believe every student who comes to the College has the potential to be successful, and that is reflected in the many resources we offer to firstgeneration students.”
The FirstGen Forward Network provides a threephase approach to scaling holistic first-generation student success by engaging and empowering higher education institutions to transform the first-generation student experience, advance academic and cocurricular outcomes, and build more inclusive institutional structures. To date, 429 institutions of higher education, including two statewide systems, have
Rd, Oxford, PA 19363
8p-7-3t
ESTATE NOTICE
ESTATE OF ANNA J. GREEN, LATE OF Oxford, 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, DAVID GREEN, Executor C/O Attorney: Ira D. Binder, 227 Cullen Rd, Oxford, PA 19363
8p-7-3t
ESTATE NOTICE
Estate of Barry Gene Harris, Late of East Goshen Township, Chester County, Pennsylvania, Letters of Administration on the above Estate have been granted to the undersigned, who request all persons having claims or demands against the Estate of the decedent to make known the same and all persons indebted to the decedent to make payment without delay to Richard
entered the Network, representing 49 states and the District of Columbia.
“We are pleased to welcome Delaware County Community College into the FirstGen Forward Network,” said Dr. Sarah E. Whitley, vice president with FirstGen Forward.
“Through the application process, it was evident that DCCC is not only taking steps to serve first-generation students but is prepared to make a long-term commitment and employ strategies that foster an environment of success for this important population.”
In this first phase of the Network, selected institutions participated in the
FirstGen Forward Network Virtual Kick-off on June 6. As a Network Member, interested faculty and staff are afforded opportunities to engage with peer institutions also working to create environments that improve the experiences and success of first-generation students, and will participate in monthly calls, professional development, goal setting, blog development, annual reporting, and more.
After successful completion of the Network Member phase, institutions may progress to the second phase, First-Gen Forward Network Leader, in which institutions receive an evidence-based and
Legals
J. Harris of 420 Husted Station Road, Pittsgrove, NJ 08318, Administrator.
8p-7-3t
ESTATE NOTICE
ESTATE OF CHERYL A. RUSSELL a/k/a CHERYL A. HEIM, DECEASED. Late of Upper Oxford Township, Chester County, PA. LETTERS of ADMINISTRATION on the above Estate have been granted to the undersigned, who request all persons having claims or demands against the estate of the decedent to make known the same and all persons indebted to the decedent to make payment without delay to WILLIAM S. RUSSELL, JR., ADMINISTRATOR, c/o Steven M. Zelinger, Esq., 1650 Market St., Ste. 3600, Philadelphia, PA 19103, Or to his Attorney: STEVEN M. ZELINGER, STEVEN M. ZELINGER, LLC 1650 Market St., Ste. 3600, Philadelphia, PA 19103
8p-7-3t
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 September 4, 2024, at 7:00 p.m. at which time the Board will hear the following matter: In re: Application of Freddie & Marshie LLC seeking variances from the height and illumination restrictions on signs so as to allow a new freestanding sign eighteen feet tall with internal illumination, new building signs and new directory signs, including relief from Ordinance Sections 162-2102.E; 162-2103.A.3; 162-2103.B.1; 162-2104.A.1; 162-2105; and 162-1910.F., on property located at 423 Baltimore Pike, Chadds Ford, PA (being UPI #64-3-71) in the Township’s R-1 Residential zoning district.
research-supported framework of actionable priorities supported through monthly workshops; diagnostic tools providing critical institutional insight; robust data sharing as part of the national Postsecondary Data Partnership; guidance of expert coaches along each step of the experience; and more. Ultimately, all Network institutions strive for national leadership as a FirsGen Forward Network Champion.
“Being named as a Network Member in the FirstGen Forward Network is an exciting opportunity for Delaware County Community College to join a dedicated community
Ray J. Giuliano, Executor, c/o
Attorney: Winifred Moran Sebastian, Esquire, 208 E. Locust Street, P.O. Box 381, Oxford, PA 19363 Phone: 610-932-3838 8p-14-3t
Classifieds
Notice of Self Storage Sale
of professionals prepared to share evidence-based practices and resources, troubleshoot challenges, generate knowledge, and continue to advance the success of first-generation students across the country,” said Maurice Jones, CEO of FirstGen Forward. “We are excited to see a groundswell of activity from the Class of 2024 Network Members and know DCCC will be a significant contributor.”
To learn more about first-generation efforts at Delaware County Community College, visit dccc.edu/firstgen. To learn more about FirstGen Forward, visit firstgen. naspa.org.
apply. Call Window Nation today! 844-513-2646
Eliminate gutter cleaning forever! LeafFilter, the most advanced debris-blocking gutter protection. Schedule a FREE LeafFilter estimate today. 15% off Entire Purchase. 10% Senior & Military Discounts. Call 1-855-569-3087
Please take notice US Storage Centers - Exton located at 371 Gordon Dr., Exton PA 19341 intends to hold a public sale to the highest bidder of the property stored by the following tenants at the storage facility. This sale will occur as an online auction via www.storagetreasures.com on 8/28/2024 at 10:00AM. Matthew Higgins unit #B048; Kenneth A Dea unit #F017; Brandon Ginter unit #F025. This sale may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Certain terms and conditions apply.
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 8p-14-2t
ESTATE NOTICE
ESTATE OF Raymond A. Giuliano of Londonderry Township, Chester County, Deceased. Letters Testamentary on the estate of the above named Raymond A. Guiliano 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:
TRAVEL/ VACATION:
OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND. Best selection of full/partial week rentals. FREE Color Brochure. Holiday Real Estate, Inc: 1-800-638-2102 Online reservations: www. holidayoc.com. $75 discountnew rentals 4+ nights. Code: “ToTheOcean2024” (Expires 06-01-2024)
Miscellaneous:
New windows from Window Nation. Special money saving offer – zero down, zero payments, zero interest for TWO years AND buy 2 windows and get 2 FREE! Offer is valid for select models. Labor not included. Other restrictions
Prepare for power outages today with a Generac Home Standby Generator. Act now to receive a FREE 5-Year warranty with qualifying purchase. Call 1-888-605-4028 today to schedule a free quote. It’s not just a generator. It’s a power move. Replace your roof with the best looking and longest lasting material - Steel from Erie Metal Roofs! Three styles and multiple colors available. Guaranteed to last a lifetime! Limited Time Offer - 50% off installation + Additional 10% off install (for military, health workers & 1st responders.) Call Erie Metal Roofs: 1-844-2909042.
Stroke and Cardiovascular disease are leading causes of death, according to the American Heart Association. Screenings can provide peace of mind or early detection! Contact Life Line Screening to schedule your screening. Special offer - 5 screenings for just $149. Call 1-855-672-8674 Safe Step. North America’s #1 Walk-In Tub. Comprehensive lifetime warranty. Top-of-theline installation and service. Now featuring our FREE shower package and $1600 Off for a limited time! Call today! Financing available. Call Safe Step 1-833-437-1428
Practical Nursing Program paves path to rewarding LPN careers
For those passionate about making a difference in others’ lives through a rewarding healthcare career, the Chester County Intermediate Unit (CCIU) Practical Nursing Program (PNP) provides a direct pathway to become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN).
With a focus on comprehensive training and hands-on experience, this post-secondary program prepares students to become LPNs and pass the NCLEX-PN so that they can secure a nursing career.
“I chose the CCIU program because I had been trying to become a nurse for five years, and after getting wait-listed twice I didn’t know what to do,” said current PNP student Kelsey Macedo. “A few of my friends completed the CCIU’s Practical Nursing Program and highly recommend it. The instructors helped me build confidence in myself and the future I could make for myself, my family, and those I
treat. They helped foster the love I have for caring for people and seeing my community flourish.”
The CCIU PNP’s exceptional track record speaks for itself. The graduating class from November 2023 had a 92.8 percent NCLEX-PN pass rate on the first attempt and the March 2024 graduating class had a 88.8% percent NCLEX-PN pass rate on the first attempt. This performance builds on the program’s placement as one of the best nursing schools in Pennsylvania by the Nursing Schools Almanac for two consecutive years.
“I would recommend this program to those seeking a supportive and nurturing environment to develop their nursing skills,” Macedo said. “The CCIU PNP instructors are there to help you help others, and to help hold nursing to the standard of compassion and openmindedness it deserves.”
PNP Director BethAnn Puckett attributes the
program’s success to the dedicated faculty.
“Our program offers great staff-to-student ratios and provides each student with the attention needed to be successful,” she said. “We offer a variety of clinical rotations that help students gain vast experiences and prepare them for the nursing career world.”
PNP student Kimberly Burno said, “The instructors at the CCIU PNP have been amazing. They always make it very clear that they are here to help in any way possible and do their best to keep an open line of communication with each student.”
During the course of the program, PNP students study topics such as maternity, mental health, medical-surgical nursing, pediatrics, gerontology, and rehabilitation. They also learn communication skills, professional ethical standards, and the importance of working together as a team. By the end of the program, students will have completed 741 hours
of clinical and lab experience and can do so in as little as 15 months.
“I would recommend this program to anyone looking to start a career in nursing as I feel the classroom and clinical experience goes above and beyond prepar-
ing you for the NCLEX and your first job as an LPN,” said Burno. “While no school can prepare you completely, I feel that the CCIU PNP works endlessly at trying to ensure you get the most out of the program.”
The CCIU PNP is currently enrolling for its next full-time cohort beginning August 26, 2024, at the Downingtown campus. To learn more about the CCIU PNP or to apply, call 484593-5950 or visit www. cciu.org/pnp.
United Way of Chester County celebrates the 2024 Class of Leadership Chester County
United Way of Chester County recently announced the 2024 graduating class of Leadership Chester County (LCC). This leadership development initiative nurtures and empowers emerging leaders, equipping them with the skills and knowledge necessary to make a positive impact in their communities.
For over two decades, LCC has been instrumental in bringing business insight to the boardrooms of nonprofits across the region. Administered and facilitated by United Way of Chester County, in partnership with West Chester University and Chester County Chamber of Business & Industry, the program has produced 560 graduates over its 23-year history. Additionally, 146 sponsors and 435 nonprofits have benefited from LCC graduates serving on their boards or as staff.
Graduates of the program return to their organizations
with valuable new business networks, enhanced leadership and entrepreneurial skills, and a comprehensive understanding of the local socio-economic environment. This knowledge empowers them to engage in strategic planning and foster collaboration, essential for building a robust community.
Kelly Cockshaw, the director of leadership and innovation at United Way of Chester County, remarked, “Nonprofit organizations have a critical need for qualified board members. I am so proud of this graduating class who are now ready to meet that need in our community! They are all impressive, compassionate professionals, and I can’t wait to see their newfound leadership skills in action.”
The United Way of Chester County also announced that applications are now open for the 2025 class of Leadership Chester County.
Gary L. Konsler, of West Grove and formerly of Evansville, Ind., passed away peacefully at home on Aug. 6, 2024. He was 79. He was the beloved husband of Gloria Bumbledare Konsler, with whom he shared 56 years of marriage filled with laughter, love, and countless notes signed “MCROWL” —”My Cup Runneth Over with Love.”
Born in Fort Knox, Ky., Gary was the son of the late Maurice and Dorothy Rupprecht Konsler. He graduated from Rex Mundi High School in Evansville, IN, class of 1963, before earning his bachelor’s degree from the University of Evansville and his Juris Doctor degree from Indiana University. Gary worked in wealth management for 43 years before retiring from Northern Trust, in Miami in 2011.
Gary enjoyed photography, Formula One racing, crafts, and, most of all, spending time with his family and grandchildren. He was a hands-on dad, sharing life’s tricks and treasures with his kids and grandkids, ensuring they all knew how to “play the game” of life. His weekly letters to his children in college, each one
Obituaries
GARY LEE KONSLER
stuffed with gummy bears, a dollar bill, and a different Calvin and Hobbes cartoon, were legendary. He never missed a week. Affectionately known as Pop, Dr. K, Goofus, or Superstar, depending on whom you asked, Gary was a man who never spoke poorly of anyone. He had a unique talent for connecting with people, both in his career and personal life. His success in finance was driven by his genuine interest in his clients’ lives and families, always paying attention to the details that mattered most to them.
Gary’s love for his family was boundless. He was fiercely proud of his children and grandchildren, and his home was a testament to this pride. Photographs filled albums and adorned walls, constantly rotating to highlight new achievements and precious moments. He also enjoyed painting small figures, mostly houses, creating whimsical windowsill villages throughout his home. Each house was a tribute to someone he loved—a school a grandchild attended, a conservatory for a music-loving grandchild, a card boutique for Gloria.
If you were lucky enough to be loved by Gary, you know he never missed an opportunity to compliment you. These were never superficial compliments like observations of clothing or hairstyles, but deeper qualities that showed his
pride in you. No matter how big or small the accomplishment – or even in the absence of one – he always had the words to make his loved ones feel special and appreciated. Gary is survived by his loving wife Gloria; two children, Kelly Walker (Patrick) of Landenberg and Reed Konsler of Chicago, Ill.; six grandchildren, Cole Walker, Dane Walker, Gage Walker, Mary Kate Walker, Jade Konsler, and Alden Konsler; and three sisters, Beverly Gach (Gene) of Indianapolis, Ind., Becky Loehr (Chris) of Evansville, Ind., and Julie Stone (Mike) of Jasper, Ind. He was preceded in death by his brother, John Konsler. Gary will be remembered for his unwavering love, his endless – even if repetitive - wisdom, and his playful spirit. He made the world a brighter place, and leaves behind a legacy of kindness, humor, and cherished memories.
Services are private.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Scott A. Mackler, MD, PhD, Assistive Technology Program at https://tinyurl.com/4dx9hp38.
Arrangements are being handled by the Edward L. Collins, Jr. Funeral Home, Inc. in Oxford. Online condolences may be made at www.elcollinsfuneralhome. com.
Courtesy photo
CCIU PNP students learning from their instructor in a hands-on lab session, gaining practical experience through guided training to develop the skills needed for delivering exceptional patient care.
Courtesy photo
The 2024 graduating class of Leadership Chester County recently completed its work. This leadership development initiative nurtures and empowers emerging leaders, equipping them with the skills and knowledge necessary to make a positive impact in their communities.
Kohler Crushed Stone Showers By Home Smart
Home Smart Industries is the areas only Authorized Dealer of Kohler’s LuxStone shower wall system made of 70% real crushed marble and professionally installed at prices comparable to acrylic showers. When you have our Kohler LuxStone Design Consultants to your home for a Design Consultation, you will be given an exact, to the penny price including all labor, materials, removal, haul away, installation and permits. No surprise costs AND we honor that price for 1 year GUARANTEED.
All of the design and product selection is done in your home, saving you time and ensuring the choices work perfectly with your space. We offer senior & military discounts as well as other discounts plus financing so a shower remodel is affordable on any budget.Don’t cover your problem up with a tub or shower liner. Design your bathtub or shower replacement with our trained and certified Specialists at a price you can afford.
“Great experience with Home Smart. I collected a couple quotes for a bathtub/surround replacement. Home Smart offered the most aesthetically pleasing option at a competitive price. They also beat the installation lead time estimate by ~4 weeks. Ken and Tony came and efficiently completed the install. My house is old and there were challenges to work with, but they worked through them and in the end, product looks really great. Thanks!”
