Kennett Fire & EMS Regional Commission proposes $907,000 budget increase for 2025
By Richard L. Gaw Staff Writer
Begun in 2018, the Kennett Fire & EMS Regional Commission (KFERC) is an inter-municipal fire and emergency services collaborative effort that has provided the operational and financial steerage for the Longwood Fire Company No. 25, the Kennett Fire Company No. 1 and the Po Mar Lin fire companies in six municipalities -- East Marlborough, Kennett, Kennett Square Borough,
Newlin, Pennsbury and Pocopson.
Five of those municipalities remain; Kennett Square Borough left the KFERC earlier this year.
Since that time, like nearly every other fire and EMS collaborative entity across the U.S., the KFERC has had to adjust its budgets against the hard realities facing the fire and emergency services industries – the rising costs of equipment, the additional expenses for each individual response and the shrinking number
of fire and EMS volunteers.
It was against these hard realities that a $1.25 million budget for 2025 – including a $907,000 increase for the three fire and EMS units –was proposed at an Aug. 22 meeting held at the Kennett Township Building.
Photo by Richard L. Gaw
The Kennett Fire & EMS Regional Commission met on Aug. 22 to discuss proposed increases to its 2025 budget.
The Chester County Prison—
One year after Cavalcante
By JP Phillips Contributing Writer
The constant whirring of circling helicopters. A line of police and other law enforcement vehicles suddenly whizzing by. Roads barricaded. The frequently shifting search “perimeter.” Longwood Gardens and schools closed. Fields harvested early to eliminate hiding spaces. Neighbors afraid to get the mail, walk the dog, or—worse yet— return home from vacation or get something from their shed.
Danilo Calvalcante was
convicted of first-degree murder for brutally stabbing his then-girlfriend in front of her two young children in the Phoenixville area. He was apprehended in Virginia in April 2021, and sent to Chester County Prison to await trial. He was convicted on August 22, 2023, and was housed there until Aug. 31, when he “crab-walked” his way out of the prison and into the national spotlight. He successfully evaded capture and put real fear into the hearts of Chester County residents for two weeks.
The search centered on the
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Atkinson named as newest Oxford Area School Board member
By Gabbie Burton Contributing Writer
The Oxford Area School Board held a special meeting on Aug. 20 to elect Andrew Atkinson as its newest board member, filling a vacant seat on the board left by Kaitlin Bell. The meeting began with an impassioned public comment session from community members endorsing or disapproving of the potential candidates. The board then officially accepted the resignation of Bell
before moving on to the new candidate nominations.
Two nominations were put forward for approval by the board: Atkinson and Connie Mola-Gerlach, who were each asked the same six questions from school board President Jenifer Warren. Among them, she asked why they were interested in the position; what they felt the greatest challenges facing public education and the Oxford Area School District were; and how they saw themselves working as a team member. Current board mem-
bers also had the opportunity to ask additional clarifying questions of either candidate after their initial questioning.
After questioning concluded, Atkinson was voted onto the board by a 4-3 vote. The “aye” votes for Atkinson came from Warren, Debbie Vendrick, William Kloss and Tenille Dewees, while the ‘nays’ came from Mike Blessington, Jennifer Kehs and Mark Patterson.
In an interview with the Chester County Press Atkinson shared why he expressed interest in filling the
Kennett Township
By Richard L. Gaw Staff Writer
The Kennett Township Board of Supervisors approved the following agenda items at their Aug. 21 meeting:
• Approved the amended Parkside preliminary/ final land development
vacant position on the school board. As a parent of children in the school district, Atkinson said that he kept updated on school board developments and was encouraged to apply to fill the vacancy by friends and family, and that his goal as board member is to be a good team player and listen to people both on and off the board about their concerns for the schools.
“I feel like I’m pretty levelheaded and I have friends on all sides of the political aisle so I thought, ‘Why not put my name in and see what happens?’” Atkinson said. Atkinson said that his family has lived in the area since 1986 and that he has been a homeowner in Oxford since 2005. Atkinson’s background is in education, and he has been a government teacher at Avon Grove High School since 2002. Atkinson also previously served on the Oxford Borough Council from 2007 to 2011. The Oxford Area School Board will hold their next work session meeting on Sept. 10 and their regular meeting on Sept. 17.
board gives approvals at Aug. 21 meeting
plan in order to construct a 16.1-acre residential and commercial development on the east side of Walnut Road, in accordance with the traditional neighborhood development statutes identified in the township’s zoning ordinance. The proposed development includes seven single-family dwelling units, 72 multi-family
attached dwelling units, 104 apartment units, three detached garages and two commercial/retail uses. The preliminary/final subdivision and land development plan for Parkside was originally approved with conditions by the supervisors on March 20 and now reflects design changes to the plan that include the
elimination of age restricted housing in the development, and transfer of development rights.
• Approved a sewage facilities planning module for the Parkside residential and commercial development, that will see the addition of a gravity sewer collection system that will flow to a proposed pump station on
development lands. Sewage flows will be conveyed via a force main along North Walnut Road to the existing Kennett Square Borough collection system, with treatment and disposal at the Kennett Square Borough Wastewater Treatment Plant. The planning module also indicates potential for
The Oxford Trio performs Patriot Day Remembrance concert on Sept. 8
The 18th Patriot Day Remembrance, a concert, and community sing-along presented by The Oxford Trio will take place on Sunday, September 8.
The Patriot Day Remembrance starts at 3 p.m. at the Oxford United Methodist Church. The afternoon commemorates the events of September 11, 2001, honors our servicemen and women, and celebrates the music of America.
The program features local musicians and an exhibit of quilts by the Friendship Quilters of Southern Chester County. A free-will offering will be accepted to benefit Oxford United Methodist Church (oxfordpaumc.org) and Southern Chester County Emergency Services-Medic 94 (medic94.org).
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areas around the prison and Longwood Gardens from August 31 until September 10, when Cavalcante stole a van from Baily’s Dairy, located a couple of miles north of Longwood and just one mile from the prison. While local residents breathed a small sigh of relief, he drove to the Phoenixville area, stole a gun, and terrorized the northern part of the county until he was spotted by helicopters armed with heatseeking equipment. The escapee was finally nabbed by a dog named Yoda in South Coventry Township on September 13.
His escape highlighted problems at the prison that had not been fully addressed by either prison leadership or the Prison Board of Inspections. The 2023 board consisted of Chester County Commissioners Marian Moskowitz, Michelle Kichline and Josh Maxwell, President Judge John Hall, District Attorney Deb Ryan, Sheriff Fredda Maddox, and Controller Margaret Reif.
Three months prior to Cavalcante’s escape, another prisoner named Igor Bolte escaped from the prison using the same “crab-walk” technique. He was spotted by a guard as he climbed across the roof, and enjoyed only a few minutes of freedom before he was apprehended in a nearby resident’s yard. The siren to alert residents never sounded. The additional razor wire installed at the top of the walls after Bolte’s
escape apparently were not enough to stop Cavalcante. Only one officer was monitoring the exercise yard when Cavalcante escaped. The officer did not notice anything, and it was over an hour before Cavalcante was identified as missing. There was a significant delay in notifying residents of the escape via the ReadyChesco alert system. Cavalcante wandered off prison grounds wearing dark pants, a plain white t-shirt and sneakers—nothing that would associate him with the prison.
Staff vacancies at the prison had been a long-term problem. At the approximate time of Cavalcante’s escape, the Chester County Commissioner’s office reported that 76 of the 301 staff positions were unfilled—with 56 of them being Correctional Officers who supervise and monitor prisoners, respond to emergencies and enforce
the rules. Earlier reports confirm continuing vacancy issues: In December 2022 there were 67 openings, including 51 correctional officers positions. The earliest board meeting on the chestercounty.gov lists 23 correctional officers and 12 Supervisor vacancies in December 2020.
“About a year ago, this Prison Board began hearing concerns about the Chester County Prison and agreed collectively to take actions on those concerns,” Maxwell said before a large crowd that gathered at a Sept. 23 Prison Board meeting. “One of those actions that the Board took was to bring in a third party to evaluate conditions at the prison and report back to us with their findings. We followed up, based on these recommendations, to provide training for leadership at the prison, and had a prison expert conduct an on-site, and unannounced,
three-day evaluation to see first-hand what was happening in the prison.
“The training took place for leadership there in February (2023) and the onsite, three-day evaluation took place in April of this year (2023). In anticipation of the results of the evaluation, the Board decided to hire Howard Holland (the current Warden) to serve as a special advisor to the Prison Board. Howard started his role in April of 2023. Howard was tasked with ensuring that, whatever the evaluation found, meaningful change will be taking place.”
Maxwell continued, “In July, recommendations were given from that prison expert. Those recommendations focused on what they believe to be the root cause of concerns, which was leadership within the prison administration. Ultimately, corrective actions that were tasked to the previous warden (Ronald Phillips, a 40-year employee) were not satisfactorily undertaken. The Prison Board asked Howard Holland to take command of the prison for an interim period, and upon the unannounced retirement of the former warden, we appointed Howard Holland as the acting warden just one day before the escape.
“Above all, the goal of the actions taken by this Board was to improve staff morale, increase staffing levels, improve staff retention rates, and operate a highperforming 21st Century correctional facility.”
Part Two of this story will focus on completed and planned actions to improve and secure the Chester County Prison. The story will be published next week in the September 4 edition of the Chester County Press
(w/o Rims)
Courtesy photos Danilo Calvalcante is now serving his sentence at the State Correctional Institution in Greene, Pa., approximately 50 miles south of Pittsburgh.
The Chester County Prison entrance with the ‘We’re Hiring’ sign.
Courtesy photo
The Oxford Trio, pictured from left, Julia Farber (horn), Katie Slauch-Boozer (violin), and Nancy Pedrick (piano).
Fire & EMS...
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Longwood Fire Company Chief and Commission member AJ McCarthy said that the budget reflects a $500,000 increase in capital expenses and an additional $407,000 in increased operating costs that will include $50,000 for a driver at the Po Mar Lin Fire Company on nights and weekends; $50,000 on building rust mitigation; and the remainder in payroll expenses.
The $1.25 million proposal for 2025 is less than the $1.3 million budget increase for 2024.
The overall budget for the KFERC also includes a long-term capital plan –adjusted for inflation -- that proposes an additional $1.8 million annually to fund the cost of new vehicles and equipment over the next five to 15 years; $1.9 million annually for years 20-30; and $2.2 million annually after 30 years –
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future connection of one existing residence along North Walnut Road in the event of on-lot sewage system problems, as well as potential future public sewer service for a restroom at Anson B. Nixon Park.
• Approved a resolution that accepts the dedication of the six sections of additional right-ofway along Chandler Mill and Hillendale roads in the township. The resolution is associated with the Falcons Lair development.
In other township business, Manager Alison
for the entire regional force. In order to help fund the capital equipment needs for the three companies, Kennett Township Director of Finance and Human Resources Amy Heinrich recommended that the KFERC increase its capital contribution to $1.25 million in 2025 that will help to pay for vital fire and EMS equipment, and to increase that yearly payment by $250,000 increments every year thereafter for 4 more years. The KFERC has contributed $750,000 in 2024.
Heinrich said that between 2028 and 2031, Longwood, Kennett and Po Mar Lin will need to make the following changes to their capital needs: the purchase of a new tractor-drawn aerial, engine tanker and tower; the rehabilitation of a fire engine and two tankers; the addition of a new ambulance and the replacement of two ambulances; and the replacement of 10 support vehicles over that
Dobbins referred to a showing of the documentary film, Honorable but Broken: EMS in Crisis, that was screened at a recent Chester County EMS Council meeting. She said the film, narrated by actor Sarah Jessica Parker, documents the severe challenges facing the EMS industry related to workforce shortages and decreases in funding.
“It’s an old subject, but it hasn’t been much discussed and put forward to the public,” supervisor Pat Muller said of the film. “It is applicable not just to Kennett Township but across the country and most of the civilized world, in terms of EMS coverage and service. It is a must-see film to educate yourself on EMS’
time period. In addition, she said there is a large list of other items that will need to be ordered, replaced and upgraded that will include hoses, nozzles and fire equipment gear.
‘That’s the reality’
KFERC member Ray McKay, a committee member of Pocopson Township, illuminated the growing need for the three companies to upgrade their capital needs against the reality of the industry.
“The price increases [for capital needs] have been astronomical, and the time element [for the arrival of equipment] is astronomical and the requirements to replace these vehicles is not something that we have a lot of control over,” he said.
“The vehicles – particularly the ambulances – just wear out because of the use they’re getting, and the call volumes are huge compared to what they once were.
ability respond and remain in operation.
“We expect a response [from EMS and ALS units], and we are at the point where that very response may not happen, not in Kennett now but in the future if we do not fix the system.”
In Public Works developments, Director Ted Otteni informed the board that the township’s 2024 milling and paving project is complete. The following roads were milled and paved with 1.5-inch-thick asphalt: Center Mill Road from Burnt Mill Road to South Fairview Road; the entire length of Burrows Run Road; and the entire length of Rosedale Road from Bayard Road to McFarlan Road.
“When we proposed $1 million, we thought we were on the right track, and we only got a vote for $750,000 in 2024. Obviously, we’re going to have to increase it to beyond $1 million, but that’s not going to do it over time. Prices are not going down. They are going to continue to go up, and we have no control over that.
You can have all the opinions you want, but that’s the reality.”
Heinrich said that another key factor in rolling out these increased budgets has been keeping the public informed, because, ultimately, the future costs of fire and EMS services will come out of their taxes.
“We’re educating our communities on where we are and what’s been going on and on why everything is so expensive,” she said. “We really want people to know that this is a big issue – so that it’s not as much of a surprise because we know that it translates into tax
Responding to a question about the issue of security in schools in and around the township, Police Chief Matt Gordon said that the police department’s partners at the Kennett Consolidated School District are “ahead of the curve compared to most school districts.” He pointed to roundtable meetings being held every month, active shooter training drills the department holds at area schools and its collaboration with other school districts and police departments.
To contact Staff Writer Richard L. Gaw, email rgaw@chestercounty. com.
increases. There’s not really a choice.”
Kennett Square Borough?
One of the most perplexing issues facing the KFERC is to determine its 2025 budget based on the allocation percentage it will charge each participating township for fire and EMS services. It is a numbers game made more challenging given that Kennett Square Borough –who now contracts fire and EMS services independent of the KFERC – has not yet informed Longwood Fire Company officials whether they will contract with them in 2025.
“We have not received any comments from them since the end of last year when they told us that they were leaving the Commission,” said KREC Chairman Cuyler Walker, an East Marlborough Township representative. Subsequently, the preliminary allocation percentage fees and per household tax -- which is based on a township’s population, assessed value, fire and rescue responses, and EMS responses – will be determined based on whether or not the Borough will rejoin the KFERC:
With Kennett Borough participation
Kennett - 30.5%
East Marlborough - 25.4%
Kennett Borough - 15.9%
Pocopson - 13.3%
Pennsbury - 12.5% Newlin - 2.4%
Without Kennett Borough participation Kennett - 36.3% East Marlborough - 30.2% Pocopson - 15.9% Pennsbury - 14.8% Newlin - 2.8%
“I am not sure if we’re going to protect Kennett Square Borough because Kennett Square Borough hasn’t asked me to do that again,” McCarthy said. “We have a contract and there is a timeline for when we’re supposed to meet. We’re coming up on that timeline
and I am aware that they have spoken to other service providers.
“Losing Kennett Square Borough [from the KFREC] doesn’t change funding on the administrative portions of the fire department or its fire rescue division, and if they decide to go their own route, those are costs that the fire departments are going to have to shoulder again and figure out how they come up with that portion of revenue.”
McCarthy said that the sooner he receives a decision from Kennett Square Borough – as well as input from other municipalities -the more quickly the KFREC can finalize percentage allocations and allow McCarthy to facilitate the operating and capital expenses he outlined at the Aug. 22 meeting. East Marlborough Township Supervisor John Auger told KFREC officials that he needs additional time to discuss the proposed increases with his fellow supervisors.
“From the pure aspect of planning, this is not a business that shuts down at 4 p.m. and we come back on Monday,” McCarthy told Auger. “I need to be able to plan what I am doing staffing wise, and whether I am shutting down a truck that potentially involves laying people off.”
“There’s not an ideal answer [to finalizing the budget] when not everyone is at the table to do that,” said board member Richard Leff, a Kennett Township supervisor. “That’s the challenge. There is a lot of information to digest. It’s just that we’re trying to balance the individual needs of the Commission with those of the fire companies and each municipality.”
The KFREC will next meet on Sept. 3 at 5 p.m. at the Kennett Township Building, at which time they will provide additional information and render possible votes on the proposed 2025 budget.
To contact Staff Writer Richard L. Gaw, email rgaw@chestercounty.com.
Kennett...
Congress
The Mushroom Festival’s big impact
The 2024 Mushroom Festival is now less than 10 days away, and we can’t wait for the big celebration of Chester County’s top crop.
The 39th edition of the Mushroom Festival will take place on Sept. 7 and 8, and there will be plenty of fun—the streets will be filled with vendors, live music and entertainment, cooking demonstrations, mushroom-growing demonstrations, children’s activities, and even a car show. Many of the favorite attractions and activities are returning for this year’s Mushroom Festival, and organizers have also planned some new things for this year’s event. The festival runs from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday, and from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday. An information booth will be set up at the intersection of State at Union. Full details about the festival can be found in the Mushroom Festival Guide that the Chester County Press is publishing for the event.
It would be hard to overstate the importance of the mushroom industry to the local economy. Mushrooms are the number-one cash crop in Pennsylvania, and over half of the mushrooms grown in the entire United States come from the Kennett Square region. That’s why Kennett Square is the Mushroom Capital of the World. The first cultivated mushrooms grown in the United States were grown right in Kennett Square.
The theme of the festival this year is “Spawning the Future.” The mushroom industry will continue to have a big impact on the Kennett Square area and beyond. One way that the Mushroom Festival makes a difference in the community is through grants to local nonprofit organizations. Each year, the Mushroom Festival will use proceeds from the event to allocate thousands of dollars to worthy organizations. During its history, the Mushroom Festival has raised and distributed more than $1 million to local nonprofits. Congratulations to the organizers, sponsors, vendors, and volunteers who help to make the Kennett Square Mushroom Festival one of the best food festivals in the entire country. We’re hoping for lots of sunshine on the weekend of the festival, and we also hope that this year’s Mushroom Festival is the best one yet.
Chester County Sheriff’s Office launches Benching with Badges to strengthen relationships with Chester County youth
The Chester County Sheriff’s Office is launching a new community engagement initiative, Benching with Badges, aimed at fostering positive relationships between local high school athletic teams and law enforcement. This program will provide studentathletes with the unique opportunity to participate in a friendly bench press competition against deputies from the Chester County Sheriff’s Office. Benching with Badges is designed to promote physical fitness, teamwork, and mutual respect while offering a platform for local athletes to interact with deputies in a fun, informal setting. The initiative is part of the Sheriff’s Office broader efforts to strengthen community ties and showcase the human side of law enforcement, particularly prioritizing strengthening relationships with the youth in the community.
The program is open to all middle and high school athletic teams across Chester County, with each team allowed to select up to 10 athletes to participate in the competition in a single session. Teams will visit the Chester County Justice Center on schedule dates, where each athlete will have the opportunity to perform a maximum bench press. The weight lifted by each athlete will be recorded and tallied for their team, with the highest total weight determining the winner. Each session will feature one athletic team competing against deputies from the Sheriff’s Office, with dates and times coordinated with each team’s coach. The athlete who benches the most weight will receive a small prize, and the team with highest total weight will be recognized on the Sheriff’s Office social media platforms. As a fun twist, the losing team will treat the winners to ice cream.
For more information about the Benching with Badges program or to schedule a session, please contact the Chester County Sheriff’s Office at 610-344-6525.
New Garden Township continues to be dormant on vision for eight-acre easement property
Letter to the Editor:
In April of 2019, I approached the New Garden Township Open Space Review Board to inquire if there was interest in preserving our property at 308 Penn Green Road, rather than sell to a developer. After what I’ll politely refer to as a roller coaster ride, the township acquired 308 Penn Green Road on Dec. 16, 2021 to be preserved in perpetuity and to be accessible to all residents.
Throughout the process I was told I could be involved in future plans for the property. I was also told I could build and place a bench on the property in memory of my late husband, Wyn Hiles. I would think the Township recognizes that I am a valuable and FREE resource with extensive knowledge of every inch of the physical plant, the structures and the land, but they have chosen to exclude me for the past
two years and eight months. Shortly after the acquisition a locked chain, posting “No Trespassing,” was placed across the driveway and the open space remains inaccessible to the community.
On March 20, 2023, I addressed the Board of Supervisors during public comment requesting an update on progress at 308 Penn Green Rd. [Township Manager Chris] Himes responded to my request saying someone would contact me after the meeting to provide those updates. To date, I have not received a text, phone call or an email from anyone affiliated with the township. That’s another 17 wasted months.
Recently, I was approached by a group of like-minded individuals who share my original vision of utilizing the existing structures on the property to create an Arts/ Heritage/Nature Center. I wholeheartedly support the exploration of the concept of creating a multifunction-
al township amenity by a group of volunteers at NO expense to the township. Some of the individuals were to have addressed the Board at tonight’s meeting but were abruptly removed from the agenda.
I am no longer a New Garden resident, but Landenberg and 308 Penn Green Road will forever part of my heart and soul. It is painful beyond words to see the property wither and remain closed to your community.
At this point I am deeply, deeply regretting my decision to partner with New Garden Township to become the newest steward of 308 Penn Green Road. In my humble opinion, investigating the potential that lies untapped on eight pristine acres along the Wild & Scenic White Clay Creek is a scale that is much more manageable than any proposed, and seemingly failed, St Anthony’s in the Hills (New Garden Hills) projects.
The Board of Supervisors owes it to New Garden residents to let a public investigation move forward. I still keep tabs on New Garden from nearby Newark. From what I witnessed lately, it appears to me that the township and the supervisors could really use a win. Can’t we all work together for the same common goal? I will not apologize for my frustrated tone; it’s been almost three years of apparent inaction which is inexcusable. I also recognize that sharing these comments will irritate a number of people. I decided to take that risk since I feel I can’t be alienated any further than I have been to this point.
Cindy Hiles Newark, Del. Ms. Hiles’ letter is an excerpt of the comments she shared at the New Garden Township Board of Supervisors meeting on Aug. 19.
Chester County Commissioners proclaim September as National Preparedness Month
Chester County Residents Encouraged to Create Emergency Plan and Sign up for ReadyChesCo
The Chester County Commissioners proclaimed September as National Preparedness Month, with the overriding message to “expect the unexpected” and be prepared for any kind of emergency.
The proclamation, signed by Commissioners Josh Maxwell. Marian Moskowitz and Eric Roe, states that “investing in the preparedness of ourselves, our families, businesses, and communities can reduce fatalities and economic devastations in our communities” and encourages every resident of Chester County to “make preparedness a priority.”
Chester County’s Public Preparedness Guide –www.chesco.org/prepguide – is filled with information on how to prepare for all types of disasters and emergencies – from severe weather and school safety to hazardous materials and active shooters. The guide includes how to make an emergency plan for your family, older people, those with disabilities, and pets, as well as what to have in an emergency preparedness kit.
The Chester County Commissioners presented a proclamation recognizing September as National Preparedness Month. Chester County emergency management personnel, and emergency management and first responder staff from the Borough of Downingtown accepted the Commissioners’ proclamation.
The Preparedness Guide also defines various emergency alert systems and when they are used. ReadyChesCo is the information and warning system Chester County’s Department of Emergency Services uses to provide emergency notifications via phone, email, or text. All Chester County residents are encouraged to sign up for ReadyChesCo, which is free and customizable, or review
and update existing information by going to www. readychesco.org. Residents are also encouraged to sign up for additional alert systems like Smart911 – www.smart911. com. Smart911 lets residents provide all important medical, family, and household information to emergency responders, to better help them communicate during an emergency.
Staff from Chester County’s Department of Emergency Services will be at several events in September and October – including West Caln’s Community Day on September 7 and the Warwick Fall Festival on September 28 – to provide information about emergency preparedness, ReadyChesCo, and Smart911.
Courtesy photo
‘I
An interview with Avondale Borough Mayor Susan Rzucidlo
want Avondale to be a healthy, prosperous and welcoming town for all’
By Richard L. Gaw Staff Writer
From the time she was first elected as the Mayor of Avondale Borough in 2022, Susan Rzucidlo – in partnership with Borough Council, b orough residents and elected officials – has been working to tackle the challenges every small borough faces. Recently, the Chester County Press caught up with Susan to discuss some of the key issues – shortand long-term – that dot the borough’s agenda.
Chester County Press:
You have long been an advocate for the power of using a singular voice to help effect change. What first led you to realize the power that one voice can have?
Susan Rzucido: I am the mom of a young man who has a severe form of autism, who is now 32 years old. I learned early on that I needed to advocate for him in both the educational system and the medical system and later in government. I learned from some great parent advocates and feel strongly that the voice of one person can make change not only in someone’s life, but also in broader systems like education and government.
You have been the Mayor of Avondale Borough since 2022. What led you to campaign for the office? Was there a particular issue that you wished to address?
When my son Ben and I moved to Avondale in 2019, I started attending Borough Council meetings. I’ve been interested in government for many years and wanted to be a part of making changes in Avondale. I felt that there were many things that could be improved in town, from our parks, playgrounds and water quality to the transparency of how we govern. Friends and neighbors encouraged me to run for Mayor to make those changes, so I did. I wanted to improve our parks and playgrounds, and with grants from Senator Casey and with the help of State Rep. Christina Sappey, Avondale’s first ADAaccessible playground will
soon be built. With the support of our whole Borough Council, we are working to make good things happen in Avondale. I also wanted to address the quality of our water in Avondale. Our water is exceptionally hard, and it is costly to residents and businesses. We have submitted a grant and hope to be able to address that soon. I also wanted to make sure that Avondale was transparent and accessible to all residents. We have made all our mailed information bilingual and work to be responsive to all residents.
The Pennsylvania Avenue bridge is considered an unofficial gateway to the Avondale Borough, but in the past few years, it has experienced significant decay and is badly in need of a replacement. Bring the readers of the Press up to date on its progress.
Since the current Council and I took office, we have been in contact with PennDOT about the bridge. This issue is always listed on our agenda and updates are provided as we get them. Additionally, our elected officials, State Rep Sappey, Senator John Kane and the County Commissioners are also keeping us informed about the condition of this bridge. It was recently inspected, and we are waiting for the final report.
The good news is that this bridge is now on the TIP (Transportation Improvement Program)
list to be addressed in the next few years. PennDOT inspects this bridge every six months and we closely follow the results and continue to regularly advocate for it to be replaced with a prefab bridge that has a wider span so that the stream does not back up there and have walkways for pedestrian safety. PennDOT has not yet determined if this bridge needs to be repaired or replaced, but we will continue to work with our elected officials and PennDOT to keep our residents informed on the process.
Traffic through the Avondale Borough has long been a thorn in the side of its residents as well as its elected officials and planners. Is there a longterm solution, and if so, who will be a part of it?
We do have a voice, and we advocate for the best possible solutions. We are in conversations with other communities along Route 41 and are willing partners who are open to suggestions but the reality is that it is a state road. PennDOT has a plan for the intersection of Pennsylvania Avenue, State Street and First Street that is scheduled for 2026.
The intersection of Route 41 and Old Baltimore Pike is another intersection that needs to be addressed. We continue to advocate for improvement on the traffic issues. I can say that Avondale Borough Council and I have told PennDOT that we will not permit a
roundabout in the borough, which if constructed would allow the center of the town to be demolished. There is no data that says that a roundabout would, in any way, be helpful for traffic. I don’t know the answers, but I do know that Council and I will continue to work with PennDOT and our elected officials to do the best for the community.
A few years ago, The Garage Community & Youth Center moved from West Grove Borough to Pennsylvania Avenue in Avondale, in a repurposed building. What other signs of fresh thinking are we seeing coming to the borough?
We love having The Garage in the borough. They are such a great asset to the town. We are working to improve our parks and playgrounds so that every child has safe and accessible places to play. Additionally, we have added some great community events -- our Harvest Festival, our Christmas Tree lighting with dancing in the street, the Santa Train, and Bubblepalooza will be back again.
We love supporting Southern Chester County Regional Police’s National Night Out event in Avondale and are actively working to host more community building events. Our borough is a great place to live and it’s just getting better.
Let’s talk about the borough’s identity. Over the last decade, Oxford, Kennett Square and West Grove boroughs have experienced a rebirth that is reflected in the form of new businesses, cultural activities and beautification. What measures are you and your constituents taking to assure that the Avondale Borough is following in the footsteps of its neighboring boroughs?
We are much smaller than all of the boroughs that you’ve mentioned. We don’t have a downtown or a main street, but while we are small, Avondale is a good place to build a family, a business and a life. Instead of focusing on what we don’t have, we are focusing on what do have and what we can do. We have nearly 30 small businesses in our town, and we hope to see them grow and bring new businesses to town, too. Our Council is open to new ideas, and we welcome suggestions and innovation.
This leads us to “Avondale Borough Vision 2030.” What are its key components and how will they be developed? Avondale Borough Vision 2030 is a work in progress. Council and I are challenging ourselves to build that vision, including what we can do to reduce the flooding that regularly impacts our community. We have
members whose passion is to improve our streets and sidewalks, while others are focused on community cleanups and building a network of volunteers, as well as doing great things with our free community garden.
We all would like to see our business community grow and are working to add some public parking to the borough. Council would love to have residents chime in with thoughts and suggestions.
What is your personal vision for Avondale Borough in 2030? How do you reimagine its function, its purpose and its mission?
I see so many great new opportunities in Avondale and I am working to make it happen. There are so many things that I want for Avondale. So far, I have focused on parks and playgrounds because our children are the future of Avondale. I’ve been working with Council on improving our water quality and getting grants to help our community.
I’m excited abou t Avondale’s future and playing a part in it, and I want Avondale to be a healthy, prosperous and welcoming town for all. To learn more about the Avondale Borough and see a list of upcoming events, visit www.avondaleboro. net.
United Way of Southern Chester County launches new AI Skill-A-Thon
The United Way of Southern Chester County, in collaboration with Microsoft, is launching a new AI Skill-A-Thon, a free 30-day skilling competition to help local professionals, job-seekers, students, and employers learn basic knowledge, skills, and competencies in AI to help them in their chosen career path. Individual participants in the Skill-A-Thon will be able to earn professional certificates to demonstrate their AI knowledge and win cash prizes up to $1,500. In
addition, non-profit agencies serving the health and human service needs of Southern Chester County can compete as a team and win cash prizes up to $5,000.
Across the country, technology is rapidly changing the way we work and live. AI has the potential to empower people and organizations but it’s critical that everyone, everywhere, has the skills to harness its benefits.
Through its skills initiatives, Microsoft has helped train and certify more than
12 million people around the world with digital and AI skills for in-demand jobs.
“United Way of Southern Chester County promotes the health, education, and financial stability of every person in the 19 townships and four boroughs of Southern Chester County,” said Terry Vodery, the CEO of the United Way of Southern Chester County.
“Through this partnership with Microsoft, we are empowering our community with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive
in a digital age. This initiative is more than about training – it is about creating opportunities, closing the digital divide, and ensuring that every resident has the tools to succeed in an increasingly AI driven world.”
As part of Microsoft’s AI Skills Initiative, all courses in the Skill-A-Thon are free to complete and available online via smartphone, tablet, desktop, or laptop. While there is an emphasis on AI-skills, participants can also choose from courses that offer
entry level digital skills, soft skills, or essential rolebased skills for in-demand careers. The courses are accessible in both English and Spanish and designed to introduce learners to new skills in an on-demand format. Anyone 16 and older can tap into the learning pathways and courses, including employers or individuals. Participants can register in one of three age categories: 16-24 years old, 25-49 years old, and 50 years and older. In addition, partic-
ipants can compete as a member of a team of up to 50 participants. The AI Skill-A-Thon will begin on Sept. 1 at 12:01 a.m. local time and will conclude on Sept. 30 at 11:59 p.m. local time. For more information and to register for the AI SkillA-Thon, visit https://www. communityskilling.org / partner/chestercounty. Local employers, teachers, and nonprofits are encouraged to share the skills initiative website as a resource for online training and up-skill opportunities.
Of her many initiatives since taking office in 2023, Rzucidlo was instrumental in kicking off a “Santa Train” last December that made several stops along the East Penn Railroad from Kennett Square to West Grove.
Photos by Chris Barber
Avondale Mayor Susan Rzucidlo.
JAMES HURD HUGHES
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.
James Hurd Hughes passed away at the age of 72 on August 12. He died as a result of injuries sustained while playing in the surf two days earlier. At the time of his passing, he was surrounded by family. Jay was extremely well-educated, intellectually curious, and wellread. He was one of the kindest, most caring people and had a delightfully dry sense of humor. He was a wonderful husband, father, son, uncle, brother, counselor, and teacher, and a role model for many. He loved animals with a particular affinity for Irish setters.
and cross-country at The Tatnall School in Wilmington, Del. and more recently at the Layton School in Centreville, Del., where he was a counselor, teacher, and mentor to many. He retired in 2021.
He is survived by his wife, Gayle G. Hughes, his daughters, Lucie Hughes and Sarah Hughes, his father James H.U. Hughes, his sisters. Beth Reisch and Marnie (Bill) Kelly, and numerous nieces and nephews and their children.
He was predeceased by his mother, Margaret T. Hughes.
A celebration of Jay’s life for family and friends will be held at the Greenville County Club at 201 Owls Nest Road in Wilmington, Del. on November 24 at 11 a.m.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to one of these causes:
Jay was a consummate outdoorsman and he enjoyed hunting, fishing, camping, and biking. He especially loved water sports like windsurfing and whitewater kayaking and shared his knowledge and enthusiasm generously with those around him. In addition to his passion for the outdoors, he was a championship croquet player, competing in tournaments throughout the United States. His approach to croquet was consistent with his approach to life. He was not just a player; he was an avid student and instructor of the game, dedicating many hours to practice as well as to the study and implementation of complex strategy, both on and off the court.
He was a graduate of The Tatnall School, the Peabody College of Education and Human Development at Vanderbilt University in Nashville, Tenn., and the University of Delaware, where he received his master’s degree in counseling.
Jay taught social studies and history and coached track
• Camp Wawbeek, the longest running Easter Seals camp in the nation. The property on which the camp is located was donated to Easter Seals by his grandmother and his great aunt. A check can be made payable to Easter Seals Wisconsin. Write “Jay Hughes-Wawbeek” on the memo line. Mail to Easter Seals Wisconsin, 8001 Excelsior Dr, Suite 200, Madison, Wisc. 53717 or make a donation online at www.eastersealswisconsin.com.
• The Croquet Foundation of America at 700 Florida Mango Road, West Palm Beach, Fla. 33406. The Croquet Foundation’s mission is to develop and promote the amateur sport of croquet in America.
To view his online tribute and to leave a memory for his family, please visit www.kuzoandfoulkfh.com.
Arrangements are being handled by the Kuzo Funeral Home in Kennett Square.
TheChesterCountyPressfeaturesadedicatedchurch/religious pagethatcanhelpyouadvertiseyourhouseofworshipand/or business.Thepageisupdatedweeklywithnewscripture.Only$10 Weeklyforthisspace. Weareofferingaspecialdiscountof25%offeachandeveryhelp wanted/classifiedadvertisementtoanybusinessthatadvertiseson thePRESSchurchpage. For more information or to place an ad, contact Brenda Butt at 610-869-5553 ext. 10
PHYLLIS WALTMAN
Phyllis Waltman passed away peacefully due to natural causes while at home in Jennersville on April 27, 2024. She was 75 years old.
Phyllis was born to Fred Roark and Esther Eldreth Roark in 1948. Raised in Kemblesville, she graduated from Avon Grove High School in 1966.
In May of 1968, she married Larry Waltman and together they raised their only child, Jennifer.
Phyllis worked for Townsend Jewelers and Ringler’s News Shop in Oxford. She ran her own concessions stand at Sunset Park, and then retired from Acme Markets after more than 25 years of service. With her friendly smile, keen business sense, and strong work ethic, she was beloved by customers, colleagues, and employers alike.
Outside of work, Phyllis loved to travel to area beaches or a rustic cabin just outside of Penn State University. Her love of animals was unrivaled and she never met an animal that she didn’t want to take home with her.
As a wife and mother, her kindhearted nature and sense of humor filled the Waltman home with love and laughs for 56 years. That warmth and joy undeniably touched the hearts of other people around her.
Phyllis is preceded in death by her father Fred, her mother Esther, and her brother Vance.
She is survived by her husband, Larry, their daughter, Jennifer, and her nieces, Brenda and Penny. Her ashes will be interred at the family cemetery.
SANDRA LYNN GONZALEZ
Sandra Lynn Gonzalez, 74, of North East, Md., passed away while surrounded by her loving family on August 17, 2024 at Christiana Hospital in Newark, Del.
Born in Havre de Grace, Md., she was the daughter of the late Fred H. Rother and Hazel Irene Eklund Rother Howery.
Sandra was employed with the Cecil County Government, retiring after 10 years of service.
She enjoyed crocheting and spending time with her grandchildren.
She is survived by two children, Angelica Mackey (James) of New Hampshire and Luciano Gonzalez, Jr. of Middletown, Del., two siblings, Fred Howery of Georgia and Nancy Settel of Wilmington, Del., and three grandchildren, Alex Mackey, Jake Mackey and Damian Gonzalez.
She was preceded in death by her stepfather, Robert Howery and sister, Wanda Rivera.
Funeral services were held on August 21 at the Edward L. Collins, Jr. Funeral Home, Inc. in Oxford. Interment will be in Oxford Cemetery.
Arrangements are being handled by the Edward L. Collins, Jr. Funeral Home, Inc.
EDGAR OMAR MARTINEZ ALVAREZ
Edgar Omar Martinez Alvarez, age 43, of West Grove, passed away in Wilmington, Del. on August 22, 2024.
Born in Mexico City, Mexico, he is the son of Juana Alvarez Gonzalez of Mexico, and the late Alfonzo Martinez Guiterrez.
Edgar was a landscaper and worked for Cedarcrest Landscaping in Oxford.
He was a member of St. Rocco’s Catholic Church. Edgar enjoyed being with his family, especially his nephews.
In addition to his mother, he is survived by one sister, Liliana Vanesa Martinez Alvarez of Mexico, three
brother, Armando Martinez Alvarez of Mexico, Victor Manuel Martinez Alvarez of Wilmington, Del. and Marco Antonio Martinez Alvarez of Lancaster, Pa. He was predeceased by one brother, Luis Alfonso Martinez Alvarez.
You are invited to visit with his family and friends from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, August 29 at St. Rocco Catholic Church, 313 Sunny Dell Road, Avondale. His Funeral Mass will follow at 6:30 p.m. Burial will be in Mexico.
To view his online tribute and to share a memory with his family, please visit http://www. kuzoandfoulkfh,com.
Arrangements are being handled by the Kuzo Funeral Home in Kennett Square.
ROBERT G. DELLA PELLE
Robert G. Della Pelle, age 71, of Kennett Square, passed away on August 22, 2024. He was 71. He was the husband of Bernadette Delaney Della Pelle, with whom he shared 41 years of marriage.
Robert was an amazing husband, father, brother, uncle, grandfather, and friend. He devoted his life to his family – they were his world. Robert’s passing will leave a void in all who knew him, but his memory will live on in the hearts of his family and friends.
Robert was a 1971 graduate of Kennett High School and went on to study at the University of Delaware where he earned a bachelor’s degree, and then he earned a master’s degree from LaSalle University.
While at the University of Delaware, he was an active member of the Lambda Chi Alpha fraternity, he played soccer and participated in the Army ROTC.
He was a marathon runner, a triathlete, and in earlier years he was a member of the Wildwood Crest Beach Patrol. Throughout his life, Robert had coached many different sports teams which included being a coach for the KAU Little League, and the track and field and cross-country coach at St. Elizabeth’s High School in Wilmington, Del. for many years.
He was an accountant and owned and operated Tough Tax in Kennett Square.
Born in Wilmington, Del., he was the son of the
late Robert G. Della Pelle and the late Angela Urbani Della Pelle.
Robert was a member of St. Patrick Church, the Kennett Square YMCA and he was a Coast Guard Auxiliarist.
He enjoyed the beach, riding his bike, sailing, running, and swimming but above all else, his greatest joy was being a grandfather.
In addition to his wife, Robert is survived by one daughter, Katrina Murphy, and her husband Jeff of West Grove; two sons, Anthony Della Pelle of Kennett Square and Dominic Della Pelle and his wife Austen (Dominic is a Major in the U.S. Marine Corps and is currently in Japan); one brother, Nicholas Della Pelle of Unionville; one sister, Vivian Anton of Edenton, NC and four grandchildren, Jeffrey Murphy, Jr., Delaney Murphy, Remy Della Pelle and Felicity Murphy.
He was predeceased by one brother, Carmen Della Pelle.
You are invited to visit with his family and friends from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Friday, August 30, 2024 at the Kuzo Funeral Home, 250l West State Street, Kennett Square. His funeral mass will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, August 31 at St. Patrick Catholic Church, 212 Meredith Street, Kennett Square. Burial will be private. In lieu of flowers, a contribution may be made to the Kennett YMCA at the YMCA of Greater Brandywine website at ymcagbw.org.
To view his online condolences and to share a memory with his family, please visit www.kuzoandfoulkfh.com.
Chester County’s Computing and Information Services Department earns national recognition
The National Association of Counties (NACo) recently recognized the Chester County Department of Computing and Information Services (DCIS) as a 2024 Achievement Award recipient for its Chester County GIS Productivity Tools and Applications project. DCIS
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: 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
ESTATE NOTICE
Estate of Elinor F. Maier, Late of Honeybrook PA, LETTERS TESTAMENTARY on the above
Chester County maintains top-ten national digital ranking
developed a series of GIS – Geographic Information Systems – tools for use by staff across county government departments that not only increase productivity, but reduce, and in some instances, eliminate unnecessary costs.
Chester County was also lauded by NACo and The Center for Digital Government for maintaining its top-ten digital ranking for counties with populations between 500,000 and 999,999. In reviewing Chester County’s efforts to improve its digital, citizen and government experience through technology and leadership, the judges noted DCIS’ up-skilling of existing staff, providing new opportunities for innovation, and work with all County departments to identify challenges where tech solutions can help. In a joint statement, Chester
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 Karen Clee 3007 Greenes Way Circle PA 19426, Executor. 8p-21-3t
NOTICE PENN TOWNSHIP ZONING HEARING BOARD
NOTICE is hereby given that the Zoning Hearing Board of Penn Township will hold a Public Hearing at the Penn Township Municipal Building, 260 Lewis Road, West Grove, Pennsylvania, on September 5, 2024 at 7:00 p.m. at which time the Board will hear the following matter:
Legals/Classifieds
In Re: Application of Conard Pyle Company t/a Star Roses and Plants, seeking variances:(i) from the 15 % maximum disturbance of the prohibitively steep slopes under ordinance section 1302.A.2 so as to permit up to 24.9% disturbance; (ii) from the use restrictions in the prohibitively steep slope area under ordinance section 1302.A.2.a; (iii) from the prohibition against disturbance of the zone one Inner Riparian Buffer area under ordinance section 1304.A so as to permit up to 2.0% disturbance of that area; and (iv) from the use restrictions for disturbance of the zone one Inner Riparian Buffer area under ordinance section 1304.A; all so as to permit the construction of a two-story addition having a footprint of 10,168 square feet to its existing 145,752 square foot non-intensive agricultural use building; and to install 37 additional parking spaces and associated stormwater management facilities, grading, landscaping, retaining wall, lighting, etc. on its property located at 25 Lewis Road, West Grove, PA (UPI # 58-1-15) in the Township’s R-A Residential Agricultural zoning district.
granted to David May, Executor for the Estate of Louise May, whose last address was West Nottingham Township, Chester County, Pennsylvania. Any person having a claim to this Estate is asked to make same c/o R. Samuel McMichael, Esquire, P.O. Box 296, Oxford, PA 19363. 8p-21-3t
ESTATE NOTICE
Estate of JOHN CAVANAGH, Late of Malvern, Malvern Borough and 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 William D. Cavanagh, 107 Balsam Lane, Clayton, NC 27527, Executor.
8p-28-3t
ESTATE NOTICE
County Commissioners Josh Maxwell, Marian Moskowitz, and Eric Roe said, “As part of their service to county residents and their fellow employees, staff in DCIS continually look at ways to increase productivity, enhance digital services and technology, and optimize taxpayer dollars. Their use of tools and applications that track progress and performance, and their focus on ways that new technologies like AI and cybersecurity monitoring can innovate and improve services, deserve the recognition they have received.”
cordance with the Schedules unless exceptions are filed in the Sheriff’s Office within ten (10) days thereafter.
SALE NO. 24-9-250 Writ of Execution No. 2022-09743 DEBT $118,516.74
ALL THOSE CERTAIN LOTS OR PIECES OF GROUND SITUATE IN WEST FALLOWFIELD TOWNSHIP, CHESTER COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA:
Tax Parcel # 440700080100
PLAINTIFF: SPECIALIZED LOAN SERVICING LLC VS DEFENDANT: RONALD S. POOLE
SALE ADDRESS: 650 Center Hall Road, Cochranville, PA 19330
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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 the Township Secretary at (610) 869-9620 to discuss how Penn Township may best accommodate your needs. Edward M. Foley, Solicitor, Brutscher, Foley, Milliner, Land & Kelly, LLP, 213 E. State Street Kennett Square, PA 19348 8p-21-2t
ESTATE NOTICE
Notice is hereby given that Letters Testamentary have been granted to Martin D. Farmer, Executor for the Estate of Lois H. Farmer, whose last address was East Nottingham Township, Chester County, Pennsylvania. Any person having a claim to this Estate is asked to make same c/o R. Samuel McMichael, Esquire, P.O. Box 296, Oxford, PA 19363. 8p-21-3t
ESTATE NOTICE
Notice is hereby given that Letters Testamentary have been
ESTATE OF Alice Cinian Hovsepian aka Alice C. Hovsepian, Late of Paoli, Tredyffrin Township, Chester County, Deceased. Letters of Administration on the estate of the above named have been granted to the undersigned, Lynn Lowery. 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: Lynn Lowery, 1400 Continental Circle, Phoenixville, PA 19046
8p-28-3t
Sheriff Sale of Real Estate
By virtue of the within mentioned writs directed to Sheriff Kevin D. Dykes, the hereindescribed real estate will be sold at public online auction via Bid4Assets, by accessing URL www.bid4assets.com/ chestercopasheriffsales, on Thursday, September 19 th, 2024 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, October 21st , 2024. Distribution will be made in ac-
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. KEVIN D. DYKES, SHERIFF 8p-28-3t
Classifieds
Notice of Self Storage Sale
Please take notice Storage First Downingtown located at 3925 Hazelwood Ave Downingtown PA 19335 intends to hold a public sale to the highest bidder of the property stored by the following tenants at the storage facility. The sale will occur as an online auction via www.storageauctions.com on 9/10/2024 at 10:00AM. Amber Trimble unit #312. This sale may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Certain terms and conditions apply.
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Middle school students learn through immersive career exploration opportunities
Through the months of June and July, Technical College High School (TCHS) Brandywine Campus in Downingtown, TCHS Pickering Campus in Phoenixville, and TCHS Pennock’s Bridge Campus in West Grove held their annual Summer Career Academies program, providing rising sixth through ninth graders with enriching career exploration opportunities.
With camps available at all three TCHS campuses,
students could choose two academies from over 13 career fields based on their interests and future aspirations. Some of the programs offered included health career pathways, electronics and robotics, animal science, and graphic design, each taught by seasoned field professionals.
Claire Conlow, a rising eighth grade student at Twin Valley Middle School, appreciated the variety and relevance of material she learned during the week.
As a participant in both the Criminal Investigation and Cosmetology academies, she is eager to return next year and explore both fields further.
“Criminal investigation has a lot of hands-on activities,” said Conlow. “We’re now first-aid and CPR certified, which we can use in the future.”
Jayna Desai, a student at Marsh Creek Sixth Grade Center, also expressed that earning useful certificates was her favorite part of the
week. After experimenting with multiple career paths during the Tomorrow’s Millionaires and Criminal Investigation programs, she shared her future goals of becoming a math sports analyst and owning a baking business on the side.
“Many middle school aged students have no idea what they want to do when they get older,” said Becky Greene, program coordinator of Summer Career Academies. “It is so powerful to see the kids’
expressions when they realize that they can attend a school where they can learn about a trade or earn a certificate.”
Greene also explained that in each of her nine years assisting in the program, she has witnessed many students watch their older siblings attend and eagerly await the year they can participate themselves. Additionally, she shared that repeat registrations are common, with some students attending up to three
summers in a row to try new programs or reconnect with instructors they loved.
“All of our teachers are really nice and give us our own one-on-one time,” said Emilia Rossi, a sixth grader at Octorara Intermediate School. “I’m already picking out which academies I’m going to do next year!”
For more information on Summer Career Academies and 2025 enrollment, visit http://www.cciu.org/ SummerCareerAcademies.
Cecil College to host three art exhibitions
The Art and Design program at Cecil College will host three art exhibitions this fall at the Milburn Stone Gallery and the Elkton Station Gallery.
The fall art season kicked off with an “Alumni Spotlight: Mary Jo Fitz” that will be on display through Tuesday, September 24, in the Elkton Station Gallery. There will be an event reception on Friday, September 6, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. in conjunction with the First Friday Art Loop in Elkton.
“We live in a loud world, loud and fast, where feelings, thoughts, and ideas are scattered, swept away, and lost,” Fitz said. “If art is expression, communication, and connection, it is the artist who stands in the mist, listening for whispers among the echoes.”
Through her work in ceramics and pottery, Fitz hopes to amplify the whispers, coaxing reflection and conversation.
The second exhibition of the season is “Retratos Boulenc—Boulenc Portraits,” which helps celebrate Spanish Heritage Month. It will be on display in the Milburn Stone
Gallery on the North East Campus of Cecil College.
The exhibit will be unveiled on Friday, September 6, and will be on display through October 18. There will be a reception on Friday, September 20, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
This portrait show features bakers, cooks, wait staff, and dishwashers working at Boulenc, a popular bakery-restaurant in Oaxaca, Mexico. The exhibit aims to spotlight the workers with a series of black-andwhite photographs that include headshots of the staff and images capturing the workers busying themselves with early morning
food preparation.
This collection was shot over several years as the photographer developed an easy, natural intimacy with these workers, hopefully captured in the photographs and felt by the viewer. This exhibit is supported in part by the Maryland State Arts Council (msac.org).
Cecil College will also host the “Amber Waves of Grain” by Robert Ludwig. This exhibition opens with a reception on Friday, October 4, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. in Elkton Station Gallery and runs through November 20.
Agriculture is the dominant land use in Cecil County. The color and black-and-white photographs in this collection illustrate wheat during stages of growth and decline. The imagery also depicts tobacco crops during harvest.
The photographs in this show offer intricate images of these crops –highlighting dramatic color contrasts and subtle textural variations – in a way that cannot be appreciated from a passenger vehicle driving on country roads.
The Milburn Stone Gallery is open during the following hours:
• Tuesday and Thursday: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
• Wednesday and Friday: Noon to 4 p.m.
• Three hours before Milburn Stone Theatre showtimes.
The Elkton Station Gallery is open for visitors Monday through Thursday, 7 a.m. to
10 p.m.; Friday, 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.; and Saturday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
For more information on all the exciting art events at Cecil College, visit
https://www.cecil.edu/ campus-life/galleries-theaters. Or check them out on Facebook at facebook.com/ CecilCollegeArtandDesign Program/.
“Alumni Spotlight: Mary Jo Fitz” will be on display through September 24, in the Elkton Station Gallery.
Three Aerospace Exploration students display their “egg-drop” parachute designs that they made during camp.
Three culinary students demonstrated their new skills of following recipes, prepping ingredients, and preparing pancakes.
Courtesy photos
A graphic design student executing the basics of design, color theories, layouts, and lettering by replicating logos.
“Retratos Boulenc—Boulenc Portraits,” helps celebrate Spanish Heritage Month and will be on display in the Milburn Stone Gallery on the North East Campus of Cecil College.
Courtesy photos
Cecil College will host the “Amber Waves of Grain” by Robert Ludwig.
Kohler Crushed Stone Showers By Home Smart
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