Chester County Press 11-22-2017 Edition by Ad Pro Inc.

Chester CountyPRESS

www.chestercounty.com

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

Volume 151, No. 47

INSIDE

U-CF Board hears from Chesco more parents about Dance Center presents three district’s disciplinary policy performances of ‘The Nutcracker’ By John Chambless Staff Writer

Kennett Square Life magazine

Unionville advances to the District 1 title game ...2A

Courtesy photo

Performances of "The Nutcracker" are set for Dec. 2 and Dec. 10.

By Steven Hoffman Staff Writer Approximately 75 local boys and girls between the Holiday shopping at the ages of 3 and 18 will be starOxford Arts Alliance...1C ring in three performances of “The Nutcracker” for audiences this Christmas season. “‘The Nutcracker’ is a magical ballet, and it’s a magical time of the year,” said Kellie Gwaltney-Greer, the owner of the Chesco Dance Center who is directing the show. “It’s a great

Traditions continue at ‘A Brandywine Christmas’...1D

INDEX Opinion........................7A Calendar of Events.....2C

By Richard L. Gaw Staff Writer

For most of 2012 and 2013, Scudder Stevens sat Police Blotter..............7C at the end of the table at board meetings as the newly-elected member of the Kennett Township Board of Supervisors, and was largely quiet for most of them. Seated beside him were two of the last vestiges of the Republican-based “Old Boys Network” of the township’s politics, while Classifieds..................6C

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production for all ages and all skill levels, and we have lots of local kids involved in the production.” The first performance will be held during Avon Grove’s annual Country Christmas celebration at Avon Grove Intermediate School on Saturday, Dec. 2. Two full performances take place at the Unionville High School at 1 p.m. and 5 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 10. Gwaltney-Greer said that Continued on Page 5A

The fallout from a Sept. 8 football game at Unionville High School continues for students who were suspended after being accused of drinking alcohol or smoking e-cigarettes on school property. At their Nov. 20 meeting, the Unionville-Chadds Ford School Board heard from several residents who first thanked the board for addressing the district’s disciplinary policy at last week’s meeting, and for voicing concerns that the current penalties are too harsh. In an email to parents last month, Unionville principal James Conley wrote, “Numerous students received disciplinary action because of their behavior at the game. We’re learning that some kids have done this previously at games. After a thorough investigation, the students we know to be involved have been suspended.” Students who confessed to smoking got three-day suspensions. Students suspected of drinking at the game got 10-day suspensions. During public comment at the end of the board meeting, Drew Hoffman, who has three children in district schools, said he appreci-

ated the long discussion at last week’s board meeting, during which board members discussed the severity of the policy as written. “Under the current system, despite the infraction, there is one standard punishment,” Hoffman said. “Being the parent of a daughter who was at the football game and was suspended, I’m seeing what it’s done to my daugher, who was an A student, taking honors classes. I see her slowly come down to a shell of her former self. At that age, you shoudn’t have a mistake put you on a different path to success. There should be some way to redeem yourself. I’m not trying to minimize it. But to me, this was a chance to learn and bond with the student body. Making a bomb threat should not be the same thing as sipping alcohol on campus, or smoking. “I am confident that my daughter will get back on track, but she’s a sophomore now,” Hoffman said. “I don’t want her to be a senior and this thing is still there, and there’s nothing she can do to get it off there. It may end up derailing her college dreams.” Wendy Landry, who is a teacher at Patton Middle School, told the board, “When you’re looking at these policies to change,

keep in mind some important things. We talk about wellness of students in this district, but think what a suspension does to their emotional health. Being out of the classroom for 10 days, that’s really hard. I’d like to see you include flexibility within your disciplinary code, some consideration for the kind of offense, or for first-time offenses, and have opportunities for second chances. We are in the business of students, and they are kids. They need us to build them up, not tear them down.” Shannon Impagliazzo, who has four students in the district, said, “I have a daughter who was involved in the incident. I think a lot can be learned from the unfortunate experiences that these kids have gone through. What took us aback was that outof-school suspensions still exist. To me, unless a student is a danger to themselves or someone else, there’s no reason for them not to be at school. The disruption that occurs in a student’s life when they’re out of school, I can barely put it into words. I very strongly feel that any number of days out of school will not be beneficial. The disruption, trying to make up the work, is an immense climb for them. I Continued on Page 6A

Now what? Stevens begins his second term on Kennett board

Obituaries....................4C

60 Cents

Wednesday, November 22, 2017

the second line support of that contingent who had formed the veritable spine of township business for the past several decades, sat glaring at him. To all of them, Stevens was the outlier, the unknown quantity with the bow tie and an axe to grind, the interrupter of normalcy. He had just defeated Republican incumbent Allan Falcoff in a contentious campaign that called for transparency in a town-

ship that had run efficiently yet secretively -- and the fallback of his victory was palpable. His voice at meetings was stifled, his lone dissenting votes were useless on a three-person board made up of two Republicans and, in the cruelest fate of all, his supervisors’ desk was placed in the attic of the township building, away from the office occupied by fellow supervisors Michael Elling and Robert Hammaker.

Photo by Richard L. Gaw

Scudder Stevens was elected to his second term as Kennett Township Supervisor on Nov. 7, after running unopposed.

For two years, Scudder Stevens looked like the loneliest guy in the world. “After one of those early meetings, there was an executive session in the conference room,” Stevens

said. “I turned to Mr. Elling and asked him, ‘Why are you acting this way?’ Mr. Elling looked at me and said, ‘It’s because you’re the enemy.’ I looked at him Continued on Page 3A

Between 800-1,000 winter coats will be distributed to Kennett area groups

Church service recognizes community coat drive efforts By Richard L. Gaw Staff Writer A small mountain of generosity, seen in the form of generous boxes and piles of more than 800 winter coats collected all over southern Chester County, dominated the area behind the pulpit of the Unionville Presbyterian Church last Sunday evening, as a congregation of more than 150 attended a service that gave thanks to the generosity of individuals and groups who will help to keep their neighbors warm this winter. Presided over by church pastor Annalie Korengel, the hour-long service hon-

By Uncle Irvin

Square, Genesis HealthCare and the Kendal Crosslands Communities for their dedication in spearheading an

For the first time in more than two centuries, the Democratic Party of Chester County has elected four of their own to county row offices, including County Treasurer and Controller. In some ways, this is not as surprising as it seems. Population increases and a change of new voters has already given Democrats a big boost in party registration over the past 20 years. The two parties are now virtually the same. Democrats have already carried the county in the Presidential and Senatorial elections, but have failed in county races quite miserably. Now, with a little help from the widespread discontent over President Trump and the reckless and failed leadership of the last two GOP County Chairmen, Skip Brion and Val DiGiorgio, the GOP County Committee has virtually collapsed. A couple of things we can look for: Next year’s General Assembly races and the fate of GOP incumbents John Lawrence and Eric Roe, and Republican Congressmen Ryan Costello and Pat Meehan.

Continued on Page 6A

Continued on Page 3A

Photo by Richard L. Gaw

A congregation of 150 packed the Unionville Presbyterian Church on Nov. 19 to honor the local groups who helped to collect between 800-1,000 winter coats for distribution to six Kennett-area organizations.

ored the volunteer work of the Kennett Township Police Department, the Longwood Fire Company, the Rotary Club of Kennett

D’s ‘Trump’ R’s

CHESTER COUNTY PRESS

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 2017

Unionville advances to the District 1 title game Zubillaga and Hower make contributions on offense and defense to secure a 36-21 win over Marple Newtown By Steven Hoffman Staff Writer The long and magical season of the Unionville football team continued last Friday night as the Indians defeated Marple Newtown, 36-21, to advance to the District 1 championship game. The Indians, the third seed in the Class AAAAA District 1 tournament, will face top-seeded Springfield at 7 pm. on Friday, Nov. 24 in a bid to win the team’s first district crown since the 1990s. On paper, Unionville (12-1) will be underdogs to undefeated Springfield (13-0), but against Marple Newtown the team demonstrated the resiliency, maturity, and toughness that has led to 12 wins in 13 tries. During Unionville’s post-season run, the team has been helped by the home field advantage and quick starts, but it was Marple Newtown that jumped out in front. The Tigers scored on just four plays on their first possession. Running back Marlon Weathers ripped off a 19-yard run. On the next play, Alden Mathes lofted a deep pass along the left sideline that wide receiver Dash Dulgerian hauled in for a 34-yard touchdown, making it 7-0 with 5:53 to play in the first quarter. Marple Newtown’s defense forced Unionville to go three-and-out on the next series, and soon the Tigers were on the march again. Dulgerian showed why he is one of the best receivers in the area when he made a nice adjustment on a pass in the middle of the field for a 33-yard gain. Three plays later, Mathes connected with Dulgerian on a 10-yard

play for a touchdown. With 2:46 left in the first quarter, it was 14-0. Marple Newtown’s offensive output was even more impressive considering that the team was without the services of senior quarterback Anthony Paoletti. Unionville wasn’t about to panic, even though the team was trailing, 14-0, and they were struggling a little on both sides of the ball. When Unionville took over on offense, a nice run by Joe Fariello gained 25 yards and moved the chains. Unionville eventually had to punt, but they succeeded in flipping the field and pinning Marple Newtown deep in their own territory. Good defensive plays by defensive tackle Joe Hagen and strong safety Joe Zubillaga forced the Tigers to punt from their own goal line. The Indians’s offense went back on the field with excellent field position—at the 28 of Marple Newtown. Two carries by Zubillaga moved the chains, and then quarterback Alex Gorgone had a nice pitch-andcatch with JT Hower for an 18-yard gain to the 3. Two plays later, running back Dante Graham scored from two yards out. The extra point attempt failed, but Unionville was on the board. It was 14-6 with 9:40 left to play in the second quarter. Zubillaga and Hower continued their good work on Unionville’s next offensive series as Zubillaga picked up 26 yards on a catch-and-run and Hower caught a 17-yard pass along the sidelines. Two plays later, Zubillaga lined up under center and took the snap. He faked a pass, rolled

to his right, found running room and sprinted into the end zone. Unionville opted to go for the two-point conversion. Gorgone rolled right and fired a pass to Hower to add the two points. The game was tied, 14-14. Marple Newtown regained the lead—and it looked like the momentum—with 24 seconds to play in the second quarter when Mathes threw a 9-yard touchdown to Andrew Cantwell to make it 21-14. On the kickoff, Hower took the ball at his own 5-yard line and turned in a dazzling 87-yard return that set the Indians up at the 8-yard line. Gorgone made that return count by tossing a touchdown pass to Zubillaga in the right corner of the end zone. Just like that, the game was tied. Unionville head coach Pat Clark said that Hower’s kickoff return was a big spark for the Indians. When the team’s defense started the second half by forcing Marple Newtown to punt, it was a big moment in the game. Another big moment came a moment later when Zubillaga sprinted by a defender to haul in a catch that he turned into a 49-yard score. Zubillaga added two points, making it 29-21, when he scored from oneyard out on the two-point conversion. On Marple Newtown’s next two possessions, the drives ended abruptly as Hower and Zubillaga each came up with an interception. While the turnovers didn’t result in points, they did allow Unionville to build on the momentum. Armed with a lead, the Indians’ offense put together a 12-play, 76-yard drive that took

five minutes off the clock. Graham moved the chains with a couple of good gains during the drive. Zubillaga had a 12-yard run deep in Marple Newtown territory, and then capped the drive with a four-yard touchdown run. That made the score 36-21, and from that point on it was up to the defense to finish off the victory. Hower came up with another interception as the Indians secured a 36-21 win. Hower and Zubillaga made big contributions in the win. Zubillaga scored four touchdowns and Hower helped out on offense, defense, and special teams. The Unionville defense, collectively, played a strong game, limiting Weathers and Dulgerian, two standout offensive players. “I am really proud of how our kids settled in,” Clark said. “I’m really impressed with this group. That’s a good football team that we just beat. They are in the district semifinals for a reason.” The 2017 Indians have now set a team record for wins with 12. Unionville also advanced to the final eight in the state tournament, a first for the team. Unionville’s staff had already started the scouting work on the next opponent, Springfield, and Clark said that his team will have to play better defensively to stop the top seed’s offense. Hower said that Unionville will be ready for the next challenge. “We go in every week practicing hard to win,” he said. “We’re going to work hard for next Friday night.” To contact Staff Writer Steven Hoffman, email editor@chestercounty.com.

Photo by Steven Hoffman

JT Hower’s 87-yard kickoff return ignited Unionville just before the first half ended. He also had two interceptions on defense.

Photo by Steven Hoffman

Joe Zubillaga scored four touchdowns for the Indians.

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The Unionville Indians celebrate the District 1 semifinal win over Marple Newtown last Friday night. The 2017 Indians have already set a new team record in wins with 12, and they have already advanced deeper into the state playoffs than the team ever has before.

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WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 2017

CHESTER COUNTY PRESS

Chester County Press

Local News Stevens... Continued from Page 1A

and said, ‘If that’s the way you want it, that’s the way it is.’” Whether or not he truly was the “enemy” or just an unfamiliar face is anyone’s guess, but the truth is that because Stevens played hardball in his campaign to shake up the business of the township, the twoyear rough patch was to be expected. His objections were both well known and well circulated: In a letter to the editor in an October 2011 edition of the Chester County Press, Candidate Stevens wrote, “I assert that there is a critical crisis of credibility, performance, transparency and integrity, by the current Supervisors.” Chief among the concerns was his assertion that the supervisors authored the township’s 2009 and 2010 audits, and invented a fictitious auditor named Ed Johnson in the process, which prompted an investigation that could not come up with any evidence supporting the existence of the auditor. “I had to claw and fight my way to be heard, and when I spoke, I made it a point to be as careful and as thoughtful and as thorough as I could be, so that there would be no confusion about what I was saying,” he said from the offices of Lyons, Dougherty in Chadds Ford, where he is an attorney. “It was a bigger mouthful than my plate was originally anticipating, but I felt that there was a need to address things in the community and a focus for doing it, and I stepped into that breach.” “The previous administration had developed a reputation for being exclusionary to anyone who wasn’t on their team,” said Jeff Yetter, who served as Stevens’ campaign manager. “We had some very arrogant supervisors who thought they were untouchable. I was charged with asking him to run, but as his friend, I didn’t want to do that to him. I told him he was crazy to run, and consequently, Scudder spent two years in hell.” Now, the unwelcoming wagon that rolled out at the front steps of the Kennett Township Building six years ago for Stevens

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has been confined to the rubble of past history – the last barbaric yawp of a Republican guard that has largely vanished from township politics. When Stevens, now board chairman, looks to his right, he sees Democrats Dr. Richard Leff and Whitney Hoffman, who were elected to the board in 2013 and 2015, respectively. Having won another term on the board after running unopposed earlier this month, Stevens is at that skinny intersection of a political career that offers his constituency a glimpse into what he has done for the township, and the “Now what?” blueprint of what he wants to accomplish for the next six years. Perhaps the first accomplishment Stevens made on the board served as a key touchstone in his 2011 campaign: Clean up the township’s books. He helped the township hire a full-time accountant and auditor, and pushed for efforts to have all township financials available on its website. An advocate of open space and trails in the township, he continues to work with conservation groups in the preservation of more than 200 acres into open space; committed the township to owning and rehabbing the historic Chandler Mill Bridge, and helped give the green light to the opening of Barkingfield and Lord Howe parks, which were purchased with state and county grants. These initiatives are all part of a 10-year land conservation plan that aims to permanently protect more than 30 percent of the township as open space with public trails. Throughout his six years on the board, Stevens has also shown a broad-based commitment to safety. He helped transition the township’s police force by hiring Lydell Nolt as its new police chief; He signed the township on to a major sidewalk construction project and many traffic improvement initiatives. By helping to establish the township’s Sustainable Development Office, he wanted to position the township as a leader in determining how infrastructure should be

developed and maintained, using principles of Smart Growth and conservation. “Scudder has been very active in ensuring we have great relationships with and work closely with surrounding municipalities towards all of these goals, whether it’s his leadership in the Regional Planning Committee or with the Fire Safety Commission,” Hoffman said. “He’s helped support the growth of our police force, and we were so pleased to be named the safest municipality in the Commonwealth on one online poll. In order to get any of these goals accomplished, it takes building long-term productive relationships throughout the community, and being seen as someone who is honest, trustworthy and a reliable partner.” Stevens calls Leff and Hoffman “independent and motivated,” and enjoys the discourse that each bring to township issues. “We’re all different,” he said. “We all bring certain skills to the table, whether its in executive or public session. Richard has a great facility for looking at the impact of financial decisions, while Whitney contributes her enthusiasm and creativity, and a willingness to walk the walk, in order to find out how the township can run more effectively.” If there is one person Stevens feels deserves credit for what is generally considered a smooth-running board, it is Township Manager Lisa Moore, whom he said helped keep the peace in a township government that was going through a rocky transition. “Lisa did not pick sides,” he said. “She stayed balanced in between.” Perhaps the most visible indicator that Kennett Township has comfortably transitioned over the past few years is heard in the tenor of its public board meetings, chaired by Stevens. Mostly, they’re quiet, efficient and devoid of conflict. Hoffman said that she sees first-hand how Stevens infuses the values he has learn from being a Quaker into governing, specifically at public meetings, reflecting the religion’s

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practice of allowing everyone to be heard. “When I say that Scudder is governed by his Quaker values, it’s really to say that he has a key sense of stewardship for the community, for now and in the future, and that core value allows each of us to explore and work towards aspects of improving our community, bit by bit, over time,” she said. “There’s no greater responsibility, and there’s no greater satisfaction than when people say ‘We know that X couldn’t happen, but we feel like our voices were heard, honored, and incorporated as best as possible in the final decision.’ “And that means we’re doing the job we’ve set out to do.” Stevens helps run a township that no longer operates in its own Private Idaho. It is collaborating with the Kennett Square Borough on a joint economic development board to explore business and commerce opportunities. It is working with neighboring municipalities on a transportation project to explore ways of linking them together through sidewalks and trails; and it has, with the help of Stevens, galvanized several area fire and EMS service locations by creating a regional oversight agency that has streamlined costs, reduced duplication of effort and connected once separate fire companies into a smooth-running coalition. The governing of townships, he said, should be done both locally, regionally and collaboratively. “There are aspects of gov-

Uncle Irvin... Continued from Page 1A

The mass firing of GOP employees of the four row offices in January and the hiring of Democrat replacements in the tradition of “To the victors belong the spoils.” The 2019 county races for County Commissioner, District Attorney and Sheriff. The security blanket that went with Republican endorsement has been shredded, giving a breath of fresh air that could mean better local government for Chester County. (This is part of an occasional column written by Uncle Irvin. As always, the column is the opinion of Uncle Irvin, and is not a news story.) ernment that are very, very local, and then there are needs that are much broader than that,” he said. “I am pleased that for the last six years, I have helped to make the township respected by the other municipalities, and that the other leaders recognize that, and are willing to work together with us.” On the surface, earning a second election is nothing more than recognition of electable deeds and the reward of a tabula rasa chalkboard on which to write down further aspirations. For Stevens, his re-election on Nov. 7 allows him the chance to tighten the laces on several initiatives of his first term. He wants to continue to address safety and infrastructure, in terms of reducing traffic accidents; work with groups like the Land Conservancy for Southern Chester County to preserve more land; and hand over the reigns of short- and long-term

planning to township commissions and staff. One of the major points in Stevens’ long-range vision will be to establish the township and Kennett Square Borough as the home of an institution of higher learning, one that could ultimately position the area as a learning center. That’s great timing; over the past year, the township’s commitment to the study and implementation of indoor agriculture through its Sustainable Development Office is helping to position the Kennett Square area as a possible world-wide hub of indoor agriculture. “I think that something of its kind would improve our economic base, bring in a new population and stimulate a creativity that would help open up minds, and develop a mission that celebrates the sciences,” he said. To contact Staff Writer Richard L. Gaw, email rgaw@chestercounty.com.

CHESTER COUNTY PRESS

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 2017

KCSD extends business administrator’s contract The Kennett School Board also offers a fond farewell to four members whose terms are ending

By Steven Hoffman Staff Writer The Kennett School Board has approved a f ive-year employment agreement with Mark Tracy that will see the district’s longtime top business administrator serve in the role as assistant to the superintendent for business affairs for a fiveyear period from July 1, 2018 to June 30, 2023. The board unanimously

approved the agreement at its meeting on Nov. 13. “We’re glad to have you on board for another five years,” said school board president Kendra LaCosta. The meeting at the New Garden Elementary School also included committee reports, the approval of some routine personnel moves, and the first readings of a series of policy changes. The school board

approved two upcoming trips for students, one for the high school ski club, and one for the wrestling team. The KHS Ski Club is traveling to Okemo Mountain Ski Resort in Vermont from Feb. 9, 2018 through Feb. 11, 2018. The KHS wrestling team was approved to participate in a tournament at Indian River High School on Dec. 28 and 29. Michael Finnegan, a school board member who

serves on the district’s Finance Committee, said that they have now had two meetings to discuss the 2018-2019 budget. The Finance Committee is also taking a look at the district’s debt to make sure that the Kennett Consolidated School District is doing everything possible to maximize the funding that would be available for future renovations on schools like New

Garden Elementary that are definitely in line for facilities upgrades. Finnegan noted that borrowing for such renovations could be limited in the future because of the annual Act 1 Index limit. In his report to the school board, superintendent Dr. Barry Tomasetti thanked the four school board members whose terms are ending early next month: Kendra LaCosta, Janis Reynolds, Heather Schaen, and Bob Norris. Tomasetti said that these board members served the district well, and did so without an agenda. He noted that they have raised the bar for future school board members. The depar ting school board members’ colleagues on the board took turns lauding their contributions to the district. Rudy Alfonso talked about how Schaen, a 12-year veteran of the school board, mentored him when he first came

on the board. She taught him the ins and outs of the many duties that the board handles. Dominic F. Perigo, Jr. talked about how much work the departing school board members put into serving the district. Board vice president Joseph Meola spoke of how dedicated the school board members are to the district. Everyone in attendance gave LaCosta, Reynolds, Schaen, and Norris a standing ovation when they were presented with a plaque for their service, and there was another standing ovation at the end of the meeting. The school board will hold its reorganization meeting, when new members will be officially sworn into office, on Monday, Dec. 4. That meeting takes place at the Mary D. Lang Kindergarten Center at 7 p.m. To contact Staff Writer Steven Hoffman, email editor@chestercounty. com.

Three departing school board members honored in Oxford By Steven Hoffman Staff Writer Three Oxford School Board members elected not to seek re-election this year so their final meeting before the board reorganizes early next month came on Tuesday, Nov. 14, when the board was holding its monthly work session and regular meeting on the same night. Superintendent David Woods took the lead in honoring the three board members—Lorraine Durnan Bell, Rebecca Fetterolf, and Richard Orpneck, presenting each person with a crystal bowl. Woods said that each board member served the district well, volunteering their time and talents for the benefit of the district’s students. Orpneck, the current school board president, served on the board for four years. Fetterolf was selected to fill a vacancy and served two years on the board. Bell is finishing her fourth year on the board, and was just elected as the mayor of Oxford Borough. In addition to saying farewell to the departing board members, the school board handled a relatively short list of agenda items. Dr. Margaret BillingsJones, the district’s assistant superintendent, made a report to the school board about several initiatives, including the participation by several Oxford Area High School students in an educational conference in Hershey. The students talked about the benefits of the Early College Academy, which gives high school students the opportunity to earn college credits at Cecil College and Delaware County Community College before they even graduate. Billings-Jones said that administrators

and school board members from other school districts were very interested in the Early College Academy. Alina Snopkoski, the student representative to the school board, summarized a variety of activities that are taking place in the schools, including an effort at the high school where students are working on a “wall of honor” to honor students’ family members who are serving in the military. During his report to the school board, Woods reminded everyone that nominations are now being accepted for the annual Citadel Heart of Learning Awards that are presented to teachers at schools in Chester County. “We’ve been fortunate enough to have several winners in the last few years,” Woods said. The Citadel Heart of Learning program aims to recognize Chester County teachers that make an impact on students with their hard work and dedication. Anyone can nominate an active teacher for the award. Fifteen finalists are selected from all the nominations, and they will be recognized at a banquet held in May. Each finalist will receive a $500 prize to use in the classrooms, and from the 15 finalists, three overall winners will be selected— one at the high school level, one at the middle school level, and one at the elementary school level. Nominations will be accepted through Dec. 31. The Oxford School Board will hold its reorganization meeting on Tuesday, Dec. 5. The meeting begins at 7 p.m. in the Administration Building. To contact Staff Writer Steven Hoffman, email e d i t o r @ ch e s t e rc o u n t y. com.

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 2017

CHESTER COUNTY PRESS

Chester County Press

Local News The Nutcracker... Continued from Page 1A

she has wanted to stage “The Nutrcracker” ever since she opened the Chesco Dance Center in 2009. They did a modified performance of it last year in preparation for staging the full show. “The Nutcracker” is a timeless classic ballet that tells the story of a toy solider come to life. With its colorful costumes, fantastical score, and angels, toy soldiers, mice, and party girls and boys, the show is a great Christmas spectacle. But it takes lot of work on the part of the cast and crew to stage “The Nutcracker.” The cast and crew has been hard at work since September rehearsing for the show. “Things are going very well,” said Amanda Delgado. Delgado, 15, plays Mrs. Stahlbaum. The Avon Grove High School student said that rehearsing for such an elaborate production with so much choreography has taught her a lesson about the importance of preparation for a show. “I think I’ve learned a lot about work ethic,” Delgado said, explaining that all the hard work will produce good shows for the audiences. Kaelynne Moore, 10, was chosen to handle the challenging role of “Clara.” She also performed this pivotal role in the ballet when they did a modified version last year. Gwaltney-Greer explained that Kaelynne was selected for the role because of her strong acting and dancing. “She puts 100 percent into it every time she steps on the stage and performs,”

Courtesy photos

The cast has been rehearsing for several months for the upcoming shows.

Gwaltney-Greer explained. “I think she brings a new kind of energy to role.” The original tale of “The Nutcracker” is based on a libretto by E.T.A. Hoffman titled “Der Nussnacker und der Mausekonig,” or “The Nutcracker and the Mouse King.” The score was written by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky. It was originally choreographed by Marius Petipa and Lev Ivanov, and premiered at the Mariinsky Theatre in Saint Petersburg on Sunday, Dec. 18, 1892. Although it wasn’t initially a hit with audiences, it has grown into a holiday favorite for audiences around the world. One reason is the memorable music, which Gwaltney-Greer said is immediately recognizable. Add to that some exciting new choreography, backdrops, and lighting, and it will be a great show. It’s a daunting task for Gwaltney-Greer, co-choreographer George Thomson, rehearsal assistant Mindy Kendi, and the team at the Chesco Dance Center to prepare the children for the show. “It’s really controlled chaos to work with the wide range of ages that you have for this production,” explained

Thomson, who has worked on numerous productions of “The Nutcracker” through the years. “You want to make it theirs, and you want to make it special for them,” Thomson explained. Many of the parents of performers have been helping out with the costumes and all the costume changes that must take place during the show, Gwaltney-Greer said. Each production of “The Nutcracker” will have its own unique personality based on the young cast. Gwaltney-Greer said that she’s very pleased with how this production is shaping up. “It’s vibrant and fun, and we definitely have a lot of humor in it,” she said. “It’s been very exciting. A lot of people have worked hard on this.” The performance at the Avon Grove Country Christmas takes place at 12:30, and is free. There are two performances at Unionville High School, at 1 p.m. and 5 p.m., on Dec. 10. Seats for those shows are reserved, and tickets must be purchased at the Chesco Dance Center studio during ticket sale times or at the door during the day of the performances. Tickets are

Photo courtesy April Bibey

“The Nutcracker” charms audiences around the world during the holiday season.

Courtesy photo

Some of the dancers wait for the second act of a rehearsal.

$20 for premium seating in the orchestra section and $15 for regular seating. Tickets for groups of 10 or more are $12 each. Information about ticket sale times can be obtained by emailing chescodancecenter@ gmail. com. Photo courtesy April Bibey

To contact Staff Writer The Chesco Dance Center is presenting its first proSteven Hoffman, email edi- duction of “The Nutcracker” this holiday season with tor@chestercounty.com. three performances.

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CHESTER COUNTY PRESS

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 2017

Chester County Press

Local News Coats... Continued from Page 1A

inaugural coat drive over the last several weeks that will soon help distribute winter coats to six Kennettarea organizations, whose family and individual members will soon become the beneficiaries of these efforts. “I sat down with [members of the] church, and we decided that we wanted to get some coats for some of the littler members of society who go without coats,” Korengel said. “It started there and then I met with Detective [Amanda] Wenrich [of the Kennett Township Police Department], and then the police department wanted to do it, and then the [Longwood Fire Company] wanted to join in, and Kendal Crosslands [Communities] joined in, and then Genesis [HealthCare] joined in, and then Dr. Al Schmidt [of the Rotary Club of Kennett Square] joined in, and then [Umbreit] Korengel and Associates joined in, and then this,” she said, pointing to the coats behind her,

Disciplinary policy... Continued from Page 1A

feel all students should be held accountable and have consequences, but I hope that the punishment of having a child taken out of the classroom will be for a very rare case.” Board member Jeff Hellrung, in his closing remarks, said, “We will be looking at possible changes to the disciplinary policy. What I’m hoping for is more flexibility out of our

“is what happened. “These coats are going to keep those in the margins of our society warm,” she added. “People in our own backyards are going to be warm because of your generosity – all of the people who donated coats and gathered coats. In Kennett, this is a community that just comes out to support one another. As we celebrate Thanksgiving, I think we should be incredibly grateful for the blessings we have, and the blessings we can give to others.” Speaking before the congregation, Wenrich said that the idea to get the Kennett Township Police Department engaged in the coat drive began a few months ago, when she and her fellow officers began to brainstorm about ideas that would bring them closer to the communities that they serve. “We wanted to do something that had a purely positive impact, one that would give us the opportunity to interact with people in a positive manner,” she said. “One of the ideas we

had was a coat drive. We thought it would be a great way to reach out to pockets of the community whom we don’t get to interact with on a regular basis. Perhaps we could strengthen the relationship that we have with these areas of our community. “Being involved in the Kennett-area community for more than two years, that we could pull this off. However, I had no idea that it would be this much of a success.” Wenrich said that the department looks forward to the possibility of participating in the coat drive during next year’s holiday season, with a goal to collect up to 2,000 winter coats. Those representing the groups who will be the recipients of the winter coats included Susan Minarchi, director of Family Promise of Southern Chester County; Alisa Jones, president and CEO of La Communidad Hispana; Milena Lanz, executive director for the Maternal and Child Health Consortium; Jeremy Peterson, boys program and

community service director of The Garage Community and Youth Center; Linda Mercner, executive director of Young Moms, Inc.; and Barbara Larsen, president of the Board of Directors of Kennett Area Community Services. Larsen told the congregation about a holiday gift-giving event held at Kennett Area Community Services last year, when she met a woman who asked for winter clothes for her two children, as well as a coat for her friend. While the two women waited for their coats, Larsen asked

one of the women to choose some children’s toys from a nearby basket. “There weren’t many toys, just a little bag of them, perfect for a 9- or 10-yearold,” Larsen said. “Any one of us would be upset to find that that’s what our children were going to get for Christmas. The woman was so thrilled. ‘My children will have a Christmas morning,’ she told me.” Soon, the staff at the event were able to find scarves, boots and gloves for the two children, and a winter coat for their mother. After first refusing a winter coat,

system, and more opportunities for administrators to use discretion. I hope we can find alternatives to outof-school suspension. In my view, there should certainly never be more than a five-day suspension. I can’t imagine students will be benefiting in any way by suffering through days 6 to 10 that they haven’t already learned in the shock of their disciplinary hearing and days one to five.” Hellrung echoed the feelings of other board members, adding that he

hopes to find a way for students to absolve themselves of a permanent record for their infraction. “They’ve just made an error in judgment. They made a misstep, as we all do,” he said. “They’re just as wonderful after they’ve made their mistake as they were before. Then they’re back and fully restored to our student community.” During the meeting, the board voted to approve several courses for the coming year: “Traditional Algebra 1,” “Engineering

Design and Development,” “American Voices: Study of Composition,” “American Voices: Study of Literature,” “Analysis and Critique: Study of Literature and Cinema,” and “Analysis and Critique: Study of Peace and Conflict.” The additional courses will not require hiring additional teachers. The big-ticket decision was a vote to move a budget surplus of $2,196,089.68 to the Capital Reserve Fund. The surplus came largely from less spending on

healthcare and special education costs. Board member Gregg Lindner recommended caution, saying he wanted to keep some of the money in reserve to use for possible future needs. Transferring the whole amount, he said, “reduces options. I think the board should consider why we should move dollars before we have to move them. It seems this money could be used if we want to look at tax reductions, or increasing a buffer in the budget.”

The winter coats were on display at the front of the church.

Photos (2) by Richard L. Gaw

Detective Amanda Wenrich of the Kennett Township Police Department was one of the service’s many speakers.

the other woman finally accepted one. “I found a coat, held it up before the woman, shook the wrinkles out, and she tried it on,” Larsen said. “She looked down at herself, and I will never forget the look on her face. She said, ‘I feel loved. I feel like somebody cares for me.’” To contact Staff Writer Richard L. Gaw, email rgaw@chestercounty.com. In the final vote, transferring the whole amount was approved by a vote of 8-1. The money will be put toward the cost of replacing the HVAC system at Hillendale Elementary School, which is projected to cost $2,373,175, and which was part of the district’s 10-year plan. The meeting video, and other district news, is posted at www.ucfsd.org. To contact Staff Writer John Chambless, email jchambless@chestercounty.com.

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CHESTER COUNTY PRESS

Chester County Press

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

Opinion

Editorial

Letter to the Editor

Lessons from the gridiron As any football fan will attest, there’s a lot to like about the 2017 Unionville Indians. Under head coach Pat Clark and his staff, the Indians have developed a reputation for being a well-coached football team that emphasizes the fundamentals of the game. They tackle. They play good team defense. In a football world that has gone crazy for the passing game, Unionville still places an emphasis on running the ball. The team has enjoyed a great deal of success in the last 12 or 15 years by playing this kind of football, but the 2017 team has reached new heights. With the victory over Marple Newtown last Friday night, Unionville advanced to the District 1 championship game for the first time since 2005. The team has posted 12 victories this season, a record for them, and they’ve also advanced to the final eight teams in the PIAA Class AAAAA state playoffs. In addition to being a consistently good football team, this Unionville squad could teach an observer some valuable lessons. One illustration of this is the value of teamwork. Teamwork has always been a part of the Indians’ success. There have been talented players who have worn the Unionville uniform through the years, but the team has never been reliant on just one or two or three superstars. For Unionville, the success usually comes from contributions from many different players. One impediment to good teamwork is when one individual starts to place himself over the others. That doesn’t happen in Unionville. Selflessness is a hallmark of a good player, and this Unionville squad is filled with selfless players. No player is going to touch the ball 30 times on offense. The players on this year’s team are very good at focusing on the small details. Each player has a job to do, and if there is a breakdown somewhere along the way, that can create problems. If an offensive lineman misses a block on offense, an opportunity might be lost. If a linebacker gets caught out of position on defense, the other team might get a big play. But Unionville is disciplined, which is why the defense was able to limit the production of Marple Newtown’s standout running back Marlon Weathers. Another of the Unionville team’s best qualities is its resiliency. Against Marple Newtown, Unionville fell behind 14-0. The Indians were a little off on both sides of the ball, and Marple Newtown was playing well enough to dominate the first eight minutes of the game. But the Unionville players didn’t panic, and they didn’t lose focus. The Indians scored 21 points in the second quarter and made some adjustments that results in a dominant performance in the second half. Another characteristic of the Unionville team is consistency. They play good football week in and week out, year in and year out. They don’t have a great game one week and a terrible one the next. Reaching the final eight in the state is unprecedented for the Unionville team. But year in and year out since Clark took over as coach, the Indians have won 7, 8, 9 or more games in a highly competitive Ches-Mont League. That’s not by accident. When it comes to succeeding in sports, there is no substitute for preparation and hard work. Moments after Unionville defeated Marple Newtown, JT Hower was asked about facing Springfield, the top seed in District 1, in the championship game on Nov. 24. Hower said that the team would simply prepare the same way it has all season long. “We go in every week practicing hard to win,” Hower said. “We’re going to work hard for next Friday night.” Hall of Fame football coach Vince Lombardi once said that “Football is a great deal like life in that it teaches that work, sacrifice, perseverance, competitive drive, selflessness and respect for authority is the price that each and every one of us must pay to achieve any goal that is worthwhile.” Without even knowing it, a team has been illustrating Lombardi’s point on the Unionville football field each and every Friday night.

Chester County Press Publisher - Randall S. Lieberman

Steve Hoffman . . . . . Managing Editor John Chambless . . . . Staff Writer Richard L. Gaw . . . . Staff Writer Carla Lucas . . . . . . . Correspondent Nancy Johnson. . . . . Correspondent Brenda Butt . . . . . . . Office Manager Tricia Hoadley . . . . . Art Director Alan E. Turns . . . . . . Advertising Director Christy Larry . . . . . . Assistant Advertising . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Director Stone Lieberman . . . Advertising Executive Teri Turns . . . . . . . . . Advertising Executive Helen E. Warren. . . . Advertising Executive

The Chester County Press (USPS 416-500) is published every Wednesday by: AD PRO, Inc. 144 South Jennersville Rd, West Grove, PA 19390 Mailing Address: PO Box 150, Kelton, PA 19346 Telephone: (610) 869-5553 FAX (610) 869-9628 Internet E-mail (editor): editor@chestercounty.com HOURS: Monday- Friday 8 a.m. - 4 p.m., no weekend hours

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Recently elected borough council members thank Oxford Borough residents for support An open letter to Oxford residents: Bob Ketcham, Phillip Hurtt and I would like to thank all of the Oxford residents who supported us in our recent election to Oxford Borough Council.

We are honored to have earned your vote and are committed to repaying your confidence in us by working together with the current council to manage Oxford’s resources responsibility, communicate council decisions clearly,

and actively seek out community input and feedback. As we begin our terms, we would like to invite any borough resident to reach out to us with concerns, feedback, or ideas for how we can represent your interests.

Amanda Birdwell, ars. birdwell@gmail.com Phillip Hurtt, Phurttoxfordbc@gmail. com Robert Ketcham, Rketcham1315@gmail. com

Jingle Bell 5k Fun Run debuts Dec. 9 Oxford Area Neighborhood Services Center is collaborating with Lincoln University on the event, which will support the holiday toy drive The Oxford Area Neighborhood Services Center will hold the first annual Jingle Bell Fun Run on Saturday, Dec. 9. Oxford Area Neighborhood Services Center is collaborating with Lincoln University to host a Jingle Bell 5k Fun Run on Lincoln

University’s beautiful campus. This event will directly support the Oxford Area Neighborhood Services Center toy drive during the holiday season. The entry fee for the Jingle Bell Run is a donated toy or $20 if you do not feel like toy shopping.

Registration begins at 8:30 a.m. and the fun run starts at 9 a.m. Participants should enter at the security entrance. All entrants receive a free t-shirt and a $10 voucher to the Oxford Area Neighborhood Services Center Thrift shop. All proceeds support

the efforts of the Oxford Neighborhood Services Center. Registrations can be made by calling 610932-8557 at 35 North 3rd Street, Oxford. The Lincoln University campus is located at 1570 Baltimore Pike in Lincoln University, Pa.

Winners of Landscapes3 photo contest announced Three adults and three youth from Chester County won awards for their entries in the Chester County Planning Commission’s Landscapes3 photo contest, which focused on the county’s greatest asset: people. The photo contest, “Putting a Face on Chester County,” was a way for the public to share how they spend their time in the county. The entries will help the Planning Commission better understand what is important in the daily lives of residents as the development of Landscapes3, the county’s next longrange comprehensive plan, continues. The Planning Commission received 249 entries through the contest, which was open from the end of August through mid-October this year. The Landscapes3 Steering Committee selected the winners in the adult and youth photographer categories. The winners in the youth photographer category include first place, “Sunset,” by Andy Zhang; second place, “Sunset Fishin,’” by Michael McBride; and third place, “Lost in the Sunshine and the Flowers,” by Abigail Williams. “After I heard I won the first place and read the message with the prizes on it, I was very excited and could not wait to get them,” said

Beth Uhler won first place in the adult category of the Landscapes3 photo contest for her photo, ‘Running on Hay Bales.’

Zhang, who earned the top prize in the youth category. The winners in the adult photographer category include first place, “Running on Hay Bales,” by Beth Uhler; second place, “Doesn’t Get Any Better…” by Miranda Wade; and third place, “Sunrise,” by Heidi Whitmore. “I’m surprised and humbled to win the photo contest,” said Uhler, who won the first place prize in the adult category. “I love taking photographs, but don’t consider myself a ‘photographer’ by any means. Chester County pro-

vides such a great setting -- it’s hard to take a bad photo in a place like Stroud Preserve. I have lived here all my life and appreciate it more as time goes by.” All six winners receive a selection of prizes donated by Longwood Gardens, Brandywine River Museum and Millstone Café, Dansko, Trek Bicycle (Exton), The American Helicopter Museum and Education Center, and the Palace Bowling and Entertainment Center. “We appreciate everyone who took the time to participate in this photo contest

and show us what matters to them in Chester County,” said Planning Commission executive director Brian O’Leary. “We also would like to thank all our sponsors who were generous with their donations for prizes. It was a great success all around.” In addition to the winning photos, many of the images submitted will be used on the Landscapes3 website and within the Landscapes3 printed comprehensive plan. The Chester County Commissioners will recognize the winners at a meeting later this month.

Barrar and committee consider microgrid pilot program Rep. Steve Barrar (R-Chester/Delaware) and other members of the House Veterans Affairs and Emergency Preparedness Committee heard from PECO about the creation of resiliency in the electric grid system to support emergency and disaster response capabilities under a pilot program. “When there are catastrophic natural disasters – like the hurricanes in Texas, Florida and Puerto Rico – being able to create power for critical services

like water and sewer treatment is critical,” Barrar said. “This conversation is about what we can do to protect our fellow Pennsylvanians.” A microgrid is a method of onsite power generation capable of near instantaneous start-up and ramping. It can operate when connected to the distribution system or in island mode, as well as seamlessly switch between the two options. PECO representatives assured committee members that any profit that

may be generated through microgrids would be returned to the ratepayers to offset the cost of grid development. It would not be a profit-generating venture. When considering where to place a microgrid, PECO representatives are looking for the greatest societal benefit. The chosen site will be able to support vital community services. A committee member emphasized that a microgrid should not be placed where it would give an unfair competitive edge to one commercial business

over another. The bill calls for the evaluation of results within five years of the pilot program’s creation. It is expected that the first two years will be dedicated to producing and implementing necessary processes; the next three years will be spent monitoring the microgrid for required evaluation. Members were encouraged to work with staff when drafting amendments before the legislation comes up for a vote by the committee.

CHESTER COUNTY PRESS

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 2017

CHESTER COUNTY PRESS

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 2017

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CHESTER COUNTY PRESS

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 2017

Section

Wednesday, November 22, 2017

Find art for holiday gift giving in Oxford By John Chambless Staff Writer Art and handmade items make great gifts all year long, but when Christmas comes around, the Oxford Arts Alliance likes to remind everyone that getting a distinctive gift doesn’t mean making a trip to the mall. This year’s Artisan Gift Shop opened last weekend and is restocked regularly, so the selection of items will be great all month long. Ki Crittenden has about a dozen of her beautifully lighted ceramic pieces, as well as serving dishes, that share her distinctive style. There is a wide selection of natural soaps and bath products by Ann Bee’s Naturals, as well as Jen Roth’s note cards with her expressive calligraphy work. There are also prints and cards by veteran artist Martin May, and woodwork by Tom Hartnett of Kirkwood – wine sampler trays, cheese boards and cutting boards. The pottery by Mitch Lyons has a timeless design, particularly his striding figure that recalls aboriginal artwork. Alyce Templeton of Oxford has a tiny bake shop full of minaiture desserts made of fabric, and they’re all just adorable. Amy Marks Delaney shows a strong collection of note cards, cloth napkins, and

baby clothes printed with iconic toys that are lots of fun. There’s jewelry galore by several artisans, offering a range of stocking stuffers or signature gifts. Photographer Natale Caccamo’s black-andwhite and color photos are matted and ready to give. Her beautifully composed images of koi, sunflowers and local places share a quiet elegance. Painter Karen O’LoneHahn has branched out to pottery, with her usual sense of whimsy – and yes, there are some of her colorful cows on several pieces. You’ll find holiday ornaments, framed art by Sally Wilson and more in the main gallery as well. The show has expanded across the street to the Arts Alliance Annex space, where you’ll find a well-curated selection of art and crafts that you won’t find anywhere else. There’s functional pottery by Susan O’Hanlon, lovely burned wood boxes and frames by Midge Diener, wood crafts and small furniture by Mark Groseclose, and vibrantly colorful necklaces by Sally Winters. The Annex also has a children’s shopping area, with affordable small crafts on a low table so smaller customers can browse for mom, dad or siblings. In short, your holiday shopping just got a lot easier. On Small Business Saturday, Nov. 25, from 10

Photos by Natale Caccamo are matted and ready to give as gifts.

a.m. to 6 p.m., there will be a show of “Petite Paintings” by local artists at Vicki Vinton’s Studio 23 (23 S. Third St., Oxford). Each canvas is 6-by-6 inches, and they are all $40. Half of the proceeds go to the Richard Beards Scholarship Fund for students studying music, performance, architecture and fine arts. The other half goes to the artist, unless they donate it to the scholarship fund. The Artisan Gift Shop is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., with extended Friday hours until 8 p.m., at the Oxford Arts Alliance (38 S. Third St., Oxford) and the Oxford Arts Annex (19 S. Third St., Oxford). Call 610-467-0301 or visit www.oxfordart.org. To contact Staff Writer John Chambless, email jchambless@chestercounty. com.

Ki Crittenden shows her pierced ceramic lamps

Karen O’Lone-Hahn has a line of painted dishes using her distinctive designs.

Painted items by local artist Nancy Swope.

Cakes and tiny desserts made of cloth by Alyce Templeton.

Cutting boards and other wood crafts are offered by Tom Hartnett.

Some of the functional pottery by Susan A necklace by Lila Beth Jewelry. O’Hanlon.

Burned wood boxes and frames by A onesie from the Tangibilia line of Mitch Lyons has a selection of Midge Diener are displayed in the Annex. clothing by Amy Marks Delaney. functional pottery pieces.

Oxford Library unveils its new Veterans Room By Steven Hoffman Staff Writer

The Oxford Library officially unveiled the new Veterans Room on the lower level of the building on Monday, Nov. 13. Jamie Cole, the president of the library’s board of trustees, presided over the grand opening. Cole, who served in the Marines, talked about how people who have served in the military love to get together, share memories, and engage in a good-natured debate about which branch of the military is better. That’s just one way in which the new Veterans Room can be utilized. Cole explained that the room can be used by people who need a quiet space to meet with friends or fellow veterans, or by groups of veterans who need a space for meetings. The

room features displays that are dedicated to veterans, so anyone who is interested can go down to see the collection. Items prominently being showcased in the display case include a book, “Notes from an Airborne Rifle Company,” which was written by Robert Brown, three scrapbooks, and other materials that have been donated to the library. A uniform is proudly displayed on the wall, as is the official charter establishing the local American Legion. Library officials are thrilled that the Veterans Room is finally a reality. It is one more enhancement that has come as a result of a significant expansion of the building. “The idea of having a Veterans Room has been in place since we first decided to build an expansion to the library,” library director Carey

Bresler said at the grand opening. Bresler explained that the library received a donation of materials by Bill Patrick when the local VFW Post 1779 disbanded a number of years ago. The idea was that the items would one day be put on display in the Veterans Room. The library continued to collect items over the years. “We’ve received some great donations,” Cole said, explaining that he would love to one day have the walls of the room lined with display cases of items related to U.S. military veterans. Cole said that there are many people in the Oxford area who have served in the military— perhaps more than one would think—so a room dedicated to veterans will be a real asset to the community. Certainly some

of the materials on display will have special meaning for those who served, and for the family members of those who served. Cole explained that there are people in the community who remember the local VFW, and will like seeing the VFW’s items on display again. The Veterans Room will also open the door to many different opportunities for children and community members to learn about local veterans and their contributions to the country. Bresler explained that in the week leading up to Veterans Day this year, all the stories in the Story Time classes related to the military, and about two dozen young children colored pages thanking veterans for their service. Those pages were on display during the grand opening. Bresler said that the library

Photo by Steven Hoffman

Veterans Richard Marra, Randy Teel, Jamie Cole, John Thompson, Heidi Thompson, and Robert Stewart were among those in attendance at the unveiling of the Oxford Library’s new Veterans Room last week.

would welcome donations of materials to display in the Veterans Room—and these items can be donated for either a specific period of time or as a permanent gift for display in the Veterans Room. “We want it to be a living collection that grows,” Bresler said. She added that her father is a

military veteran, so she is very proud of the fact that the library now has a room dedicated to those who served their country. “This is really close to my heart,” Bresler said. “I feel a deep gratitude to those who served.” To contact Staff Writer Steven Hoffman, email editor@ chestercounty.com.

CHESTER COUNTY PRESS

Nov. 24 Better Than Bacon comedy benefit The improvisational comedy troupe Better Than Bacon will perform “Bacon Gives Back,” a benefit for Act in Faith of Greater West Chester, on Nov. 24 at 7:30 p.m. at the Uptown! Knauer Performing Arts Center (226 N. High St., West Chester). The interfaith organization provides support for unemployed and underemployed members of the community. Tickets are $20 at www.uptownwestchester. org, at the box office, or call 610-356-2787. Nov. 25 Santa Story time Santa Story Time and Elves Workshop will take place at the Oxford Library on Saturday, Nov. 25 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. This Small Business Saturday, while you are out shopping, children can stop by the library to make and take a gift item for a loved one for the upcoming holidays. Santa will also be stopping by at 1 p.m. to share one of his favorite stories with us and take photos. Please bring a canned good or nonperishable item in exchange for the craft. These items will be donated to Neighborhood Services. Nov. 30 Winter Candlelight Concert The Lincoln University Concert Choir will perform the annual Winter Candlelight Concert on campus at the International Cultural Center (1570 Baltimore Pike, Lincoln University) on Nov. 30 at 7 p.m. The event is free and open to the public. Dec. 2 Holiday pops concert The Kennett Symphony

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 2017

presents “Pops Goes the Holiday” with guest Philadanco on Dec. 2 at 7:30 p.m., at the Unionville High School auditorium (750 Unionville Rd., Kennett Square). The concert ranges from traditional Christmas carols to t”Christmas on Broadway” and “Sleigh Ride.” Philadanco will join the symphony in a performance of “Suite En Bleu,” danced to the music of Bach. The concert will also feature the 100-member Kennett Symphony Children’s Chorus. Tickets are $30 to $53 in advance, $35 to $58 on the day of the concert (students 18 and younger are $10).Visit www. KennettSymphony.org or call 610-444-6363. Dec. 8 Celtic Christmas songs in Oxford The Friends Folk Club, along with St. Christopher’s Episcopal Church, will host Celric balladeer Charlie Zahm on Dec. 8 at 7:30 p.m. St. Christopher’s Episcopal Church is at 116 Lancaster Pike, Oxford. Proceeds benefit the church. Tickets are $15 for adults (free for children 12 and younger.). Call 610-869-8076 for more information. Dec. 8 KATS Holiday Gala The Kennett Amateur Theatrical Society will hold its Holiday Gala on Dec. 8 from 6 to 10 p.m. in the Mendhall Inn’s Grand Ballroom (323 Kennett Pike, Chadds Ford). There will be a silent and live auction and raffle drawings, as well as a tribute to Kirk Fetters. Tickets are $55 for adults and $20 for ages 12 and younger. Tickets are available online at www.callkats.org. No tickets will be sold at the

door. Kennett Flash schedule The Kennett Flash (102 Sycamore Alley, Kennett Square) hosts regional and national artists. Tickets are available in advance at www. kennettflash.org, or at the door. Snacks and beverages are sold, or guests can BYOB. The schedule includes: Francis Dunnery solo (Nov. 24, 8 p.m., $27 and $32); Joe Trainor and Friends present an evening of Billy Joel (Nov. 25, 8 p.m., $20 and $25); “Whiplash” film screening and lecture by Bruce Klauber (Nov. 26, 7 p.m., $10 and $15); comedy with Julia Scotti and Joe Bublewicz (Dec. 1, 8 p.m., $25 and $30); Countdown to Ecstasy – Steely Dan tribute (Dec. 2, 7 and 9:30 p.m., $25 and $30); open mic with William Rose (Dec. 3, 7 p.m., $4); Jerry Douglas (Dec. 8, sold out); the Melton Brothers (Dec. 9, 8 p.m., $20 and $24); Steve Forbert (Dec. 15, 8 p.m., $27 and $30); We Kids Rock Holiday Show (Dec. 16, 11:30 a.m., $10 and $14). Reactors Comedy Club schedule Reactors Comedy Club (in the Wyndham Gardens Hotel, 1110 Baltimore Pike, Glen Mills) hosts live comedy on weekends. Tickets are $20. Call 267-374-0732 or visit www.reactorscomedyclub. com. The schedule is: Mike Egan, Tommy Highland (Nov. 24, 25); Pat O’Donnell, Troy Moore (Dec. 1, 2).

Nov. 24-26 Nicholas Santoleri Open House Artist Nicholas P. Santoleri will hold an Open Studio and Holiday Show from Nov. 24 to 26 at his home studio (1515 West Chester Pike, Unit A6, West Chester). The show features original art in watercolor and pencil, as well as framed, limited edition and open edition prints and note cards. Hours are Nov. 24 from 1 to 9 p.m., Nov. 25 from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., and Nov. 26 from noon to 5 p.m. Santoleri has been creating realist portraits and still-life works for more than 30 years. Visit www.santoleri.com. Through Nov. 25 New works by Laura McMillan The Station Gallery (3922 Kennett Pike, Greenville, Del.) presents “New Works by Laura McMillan,”

including paintings, painted furniture and “oddities,” through Nov. 25. Call 302-654-8638 or visit www.stationgallery. net. Through Nov. 30 ‘Zoological’ by Lynette Shelley Mala Galleria (200 E. State St., Kennett Square) presents “Zoological,” a solo show of animal paintings by Lynette Shelley, through the end of November. Call 202-591-6548 or email malagalleriakennett square@gmail.com for more information. Through Dec. 2 MaryAnn Weselyk Church Street Gallery in West Chester presents “The Colorful Life” by MaryAnn Weselyk through Dec. 2. Hours are Wednesday and Thursday from 1 to 4 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Call 215989-1449 or visit www.

churchstreetgallerywc. com. Through Dec. 24 Miniature art show Sunset Hill Fine Arts Gallery (23 N. High St., West Chester) will host the 19th Annual Miniature Show, featuring small paintings by a variety of Chester County artists, through Dec. 24. The gallery is on the second floor of Sunset Hill Jewelers. Visit www. sunsethilljewelers.com for a list of participating artists and gallery hours. Through Dec. 23 Greg Mort and Jon Mort The Somer ville Manning Gallery (101 Stone Block Row, Greenville, Del.) hosts a show by father and son artists Greg Mort and Jon Mort through Dec. 23. More information and an online catalogue are available at www. somervillemanning.com.

To submit items to the Calendar of Events, e-mail jchambless@chestercounty. com. There is no charge. Not every submission can be included. Items should be submitted at least two weeks before the event.

Holiday cheer at Howard Pyle Studio Art lovers will have a chance to tour the historic Howard Pyle Studio in Wilmington on Nov. 25 during a holiday open house.

The studio where some of the giants of illustration gathered in the 1900s will be open from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., with cider and cookies, handmade holiday

ornaments, fine art by regional artists and a silent auction for a painting by Helen Farr Sloan. The studio is at 1305 N. Franklin St., Wilmington, Del.

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WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 2017

CHESTER COUNTY PRESS

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 2017

MARION CHARLOTTE RANNELS MASON Marion Rannels Mason was born Dec. 16, 1917 in Fetterville, Pa. She graduated from Lititz High School in 1935. After working at the Lititz Chocolate factory to earn money for school, she attended The Grissinger Beauty Culture School and graduated from the program in 1936. She opened a beauty shop in her home on Maple Street in Lititz. Marion married George W. Mason in 1940 in Easton, Pa., and after turning her beauty shop business over to her brother, she moved to Oxford. Marion and George had three children, Barry L. Mason (Ruth), Cynthia K. Herr (Dwight) and Nina Mason Dintaman (Tom). She was blessed with five grandchildren; as well as seven great-grandchildren. Throughout her life and while living in Oxford, Marion was active in her community. She joined the United Methodist Church of Oxford in 1940. She was a member of The Oxford Research Club, The Rural Homemakers, The Oxford Garden Club, The United Methodist Women, The Octorara Art Club, and was a 50-year member and officer of The Eastern Star. She moved from Oxford back to her hometown of Lititz in 1996, and in 2006 moved to the Luther Care Community in Lititz, where she was a volunteer in the community store and for the holiday bazaar. She loved creative arts and making crafts. For six years she has been knitting hats for newborn infants to be donated to area hospitals. When asked her philosophy of life she replied, “Just hang in there … as long as you can.” A service was held Nov. 12. In lieu of flowers, please make memorial donations to Lititz Springs Park Inc., PO Box 110, Lititz, PA, 17543; or Oxford United Methodist Women, Oxford United Methodist Church, 18 Addison Street, Oxford, PA 19363. To leave the family an online condolence, visit www.SnyderFuneralHome.com.

AMI RACHAEL MURRAY Ami Rachael Murray, 23, of West Grove, passed away on Nov. 11 at home. Born in Newark, Del., she was the daughter of William Murray of Bear, Del., and Sherri Cross Sammons and stepfather Brian Sammons of West Grove. Ami liked to live spontaneously. She loved her many friends and spending time at the beach. She attended and worked music festivals. She is survived by her parents; stepfather; one sister, Nicole Sammons of West Grove; one brother, Josh Sammons of West Grove; maternal grandparents, Ken and Patricia Cross of West Grove; paternal grandparents, Bill and Nita Murray of Newark, Del.; four cousins, Josh Murray, Casey Murray, Justin Reuschlein and Amber Willey; and aunts and uncles. A funeral was held Nov. 17. Interment was in Cochranville Methodist Church Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory may be made to Delmarva Teen Challenge, PO Box 1271, Seaford, DE 19973. Online condolences may be made at www. elcollinsfuneralhome.com.

Nov. 25 Buffet breakfast The Oxford United Methodist Church (18 Addison St., Oxford) hosts its monthly buffet breakfast on Nov. 25 from 7 to 10 a.m. The public is welcome. The menu includes buttermilk pancakes, French toast, scrambled eggs, sausage and bacon, roasted potatoes, dried beef gravy and more. Tickets at the door are $7 for adults and $3 for ages 3 to 10. Proceeds benefit the church’s general fund. Call 610-9329698 for more information. Nov. 26 Hymn sing A holiday-themed hymn sing led by Rachel Byrd with organist Chuck Cole and the Belles And Roses Joyful Ringers directed by Lavenia Civitella will be held at 2 p.m. Nov. 26 at New London Presbyterian Church (1986 Newark Rd., New London). A holiday social hour will follow the concert. Bring a sweet treat to share. Nov. 29 Joseph’s People meeting The next monthly Joseph’s People meeting for the unemployed and underemployed will be on Nov. 29 in the parish life center (lower level) of ABVM’s Church (300 State Rd., West Grove). The meeting begins promptly at 7 p.m. The guest speaker will be Rep. John Lawrence, discussing job resources (CareerLink), small business resources (SCORE), Unemployment Compensation and more. For more information, visit www. josephspeople.org. Dec. 1 Holiday music with Oxford Trio

COLIN J. DAVIES Colin J. Davies, of Spring Mills, passed from this life on Nov. 10. He was 32. Born in 1985 in Covington, La., Colin was a son of Rodney W. and Mary E. (Bell) Davies of Boston, Mass. He was a 2004 graduate of Kennett High School in Kennett Square. He went on to attend Bucknell University in Lewisburg, where he attained his bachelor’s degree in civil engineering. Colin was employed as a Project Engineer for Glenn O. Hawbaker in State College. On June 8, 2013, Colin married Whitney N. Crater, who survives him. Colin absolutely loved the outdoors and nature. He was an avid hiker, going on a week-long backpacking trip to Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks with his longtime friend Mark in 2008. During his sophomore through senior years in school, he volunteered with the Kennett Square Fire Company. Anything to do with building and designing interested him. In addition to his parents and wife, Colin is survived by his twin sister Emma Davies of Boston, Mass., and Sarah Davies (John) of Walla Walla, Wash.; one brother; Gareth Davies (Chelsea) of North Hampton, N.H.; and three best friends, Mark McCormick, Kyle Stauffer and Craig Stoddard. A service was held Nov. 18. In lieu of flowers, contributions in Colin’s memory may be given to Pets Come First, 2451 General Potter Highway, Centre Hall, PA 16828. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.stevenrnefffuneralhome.com.

NELL J. HARPER Nell J. Harper (Hodge), 80, of Toughkenamon, passed away suddenly on Nov. 12. She was the wife of Junior Ray Harper, who passed away in 1991, and with whom she shared 33 years of marriage. She was born in Butler, Tenn., in 1937 to the late John L. Hodge and the late Bessie Elkins Hodge. Nell was a certified Nursing Assistant at Pocopson Home for more than 20 years; she had a passion and love for taking care of others. All the neighborhood kids thought of her home as their second home, she always loved having a lot of people around, and all who met her were welcomed in her home. She was always ready to cook you a good southern meal; she would have fed the world if she had the means to, no one ever left her house hungry. Nell enjoyed spending time with her family and the trips to Tennessee and the Outer Banks. She enjoyed listening to country music, especially Alan Jackson. She is survived by her son, Tom Harper of West Grove; daughters, Brenda Rominger (Spencer) of Avondale, and Sandra Harper-Winnington and Dianna Harper, both of Toughkenamon; one brother, Kenneth Roark of Brookhaven, Pa.; three sisters, Rose Dickens of West Grove, Peggy Knolles of Oxford, and Helen Roark of West Chester; four grandchildren; and one great-granddaughter. She was predeceased by her oldest son, Bobby Harper; two brothers, James B. and Gene Hodge; and one sister, Sarah Francis. A funeral was held Nov. 18. Burial was in Union Hill Cemetery in Kennett Square. In memory of Nell, a contribution may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, 399 Market Street, Suite 102, Philadelphia, PA 19106. To view her online tribute and to share a memory with her family, visit www.griecocares.com.

ROSENDO LOPEZ RODRIGUEZ Rosendo Lopez Rodriguez, 86, of Kennett Square, passed away on Nov. 9 at his residence. He was the husband of Maria Vazquez de Lopez, with whom he shared 65 years of marriage. Born in Rancho La Ordena, Moroleon, GTO, Mexico, he was the son of the late Jose Lopez Zavala and the late Leonila Rodriguez Zavala. He was a mushroom worker at Kaolin Mushroom Company, retiring in 1995. Rosendo was a member of St. Rocco Catholic Church. He enjoyed growing corn, working in the fields, farming, music, and being with his family and friends. In addition to his wife, he is survived by four sons, Jesus Lopez Vazquez of Kennett Square, Rafael Lopez Vazquez of Toughkenamon, Miguel Lopez Vazquez of Wilmington, Del., and Juan Lopez Vazquez of Loudon, Tenn.; four daughters, Fidelia Lopez de Guerrero and Maria Isabel Lopez de Guerrero, both of Kennett Square, Guadalupe Lopez Vazquez of Mexico, and Josefina Lopez de Sanchez of Toughkenamon; 53 grandchildren; 50 greatgrandchildren; and four great-great-grandchildren; four brothers; and three sisters. He was predeceased by twin sons, Jose and Jesus Lopez Vazquez; a son, Jose Lopez Vazquez; and one daughter, Teresa Lopez Vazquez. A funeral was held Nov. 17. Burial was in St. Patrick’s Cemetery in Kennett Square. To view his online tribute and to share a memory with his family, visit www.griecocares.com.

KATHLEEN W. LOWRIE Kathleen W. “Kitty” Lowrie, 98, of Ephrata, formerly of West Grove, passed away on Nov. 6 at Fairmount Homes in Ephrata. She was the wife of the late Donald Lowrie. Born in Spruce Pine, N.C., she was the daughter of the late Elzie and Linda Rose Woody. She was employed with Wyeth Laboratories in West Chester as a lab technician. Kitty was a member of Mt. Vernon Christian Church in Kirkwood. She enjoyed knitting, gardening and reading. She is survived by nieces and nephews. A funeral was held Nov. 13. Donations in her memory may be made to Fairmount Homes, 333 Wheat Ridge Drive, Ephrata, PA 17522. Online condolences may be made at www.elcollinsfuneralhome.com.

Christmas with the Oxford Trio and Friends, featuring the Oxford Trio and guest singers from the Oxford Area School District’s Hopewell School, will be held Dec. 1 at the Oxford Methodist Church (Market and Addison streets, Oxford). There will be choral and instrumental offerings, carol singing, and a few surprises. The concert will begin at 7:30 p.m. Admission is free, but an offering will be accepted. Call 610-509-3267 for more information.

Alleluia The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. Psalm 34:18 The Chester County Press features a dedicated church/religious page that can help you advertise your house of worship and/or business. The page is updated weekly with new scripture. Only $10 Weekly for this space. We are offering a special discount of 25% off each and every help wanted/ classified advertisement to any business that advertises on the PRESS church page.

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Chester County Press

Local News State task force to boost environmental education Stroud Water Research Center recently entered into a cooperative agreement with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Chesapeake Bay Program Office and Pennsylvania partners to expand environmental literacy among Pennsylvania K-12 students and educators. While Pennsylvania is home to 86,000 miles of streams and rivers, many of them are degrad-

ed by pollution from agriculture, stormwater runoff, and insufficient wastewater management. In turn, Pennsylvania waterways provide an opportunity to contribute to watershed restoration efforts in the Chesapeake Bay and beyond. In 2014, the Chesapeake Bay Watershed Agreement outlined an “environmental literacy” plan that would educate citizens about their freshwater resources and

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Help Wanted Lower Oxford Township, Chester County, PA is seeking a Township/

Treasurer and a separate position of Township Zoning Officer. If interested, you may contact Lower Oxford Township at 610-932-8150 ext. 10, or e-mail toloweroxfordtwp@zoominternet.net to obtain more information. You may mail your resume to the attention of W. Ronald Kepler, Township Supervisor, at 220 Township Road, Oxford, PA 19363.

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how to protect them. The Stroud Center-led project assembles a task force of representative leaders across the commonwealth to address environmental literacy. It does so by increasing the use of locally relevant, hands-on programs that promote experiential learning. The Pennsylvania Watershed Education Task Force brings together approximately 20 collaborators from a mix of state agencies, leading informal environmental education organizations, business and industry leaders in the environmental workforce, postsecondary institutions,

ESTATE NOTICE

ESTATE OF Clare Lynch, aka Clare P. Lynch, late of East Goshen Township, Chester County, Pennsylvania, Deceased. Letters Testamentary on the estate of the above named Clare Lynch, aka Clare P. Lynch, 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:James T. Ortli,Executor, c/o Attorney: David J. Bartholf, 999 West Chester Pike, Suite 202, West Chester, PA 19382 11p-22-3t ESTATE OF Lois June Marcus Rivers, late of East Goshen Township, Chester County, Pennsylvania, Deceased. Letters Testamentary on the estate of the above named Lois June Marcus Rivers, having been granted to the undersigned, all persons having claims or demands against the estate of the said decedent are requested to

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make known the same and all persons indebted to the said decedent to make payment without delay to: Neil R. Rivers, Executor, 9 St. James Place, Yardley, PA, 19067. 11p-8-3t

ESTATE NOTICE

ESTATE OF Edith L Flessner late of Oxford Township, Chester County, Pennsylvania, Deceased. Letters Testamentary on the estate of the above named Edith L Flessner , 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 Donald R. Flessner 101 Kensington Ln, Oxford, PA 19363, Executor 11p-15-3t

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ESTATE OF DAVID K. REYNOLDS, late of Cochranville, Pennsylvania, Deceased. Letters of Administration on the estate of the above named DAVID

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NOTICE OF LOCATION OF PENNSYLVANIA LIQUOR STORE FOR THE SALE OF LIQUOR

In accordance with the provisions of the Act of April 12, 1951, P.L. 90, known as the “Liquor Code”, noticeis hereby given that the Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board has determined upon the location of a Fine Wine and Good Spirits Store, Shoppes of Longwood Village, 849 East Baltimore Pike, West Marlborough Township, Kennett Square, PA 19348-1801, Chester County, PENNSYLVANIA LIQUOR CONTROL BOARD 11p-22-1t

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“Millersville University’s Watershed Education Training Institute is pleased to partner with Stroud Water Research Center’s NOAA grant–funded project to improve K-12 students’ environmental literacy and stewardship. The project intends to build capacity across the commonwealth to offer high-impact environmental programming. As a member of the project’s PA Watershed Education Task Force Leadership Board, I look forward to connecting with a diverse group of stakeholders with a shared mission to advance environmental literacy in Pennsylvania,” said Nanette Marcum-Dietrich, WETI cocoordinator and professor at Millersville University.

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statewide capacity-building project is the establishment and strengthening of collaborative partnerships toward the shared goal of increasing environmental literacy.” “Stroud Water Research Center, one of the three Pennsylvania projects receiving a total of about $300,000 in NOAA funding this year, helps implement high-quality K-12 environmental education programs. We’re proud to support projects like this that develop students into the next generation of scientists and Chesapeake Bay stewards,” said Sean Corson, acting director of the NOAA Chesapeake Bay Office.

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INDECENT EXPOSURE Pennsylvania State Police Avondale charged Alonso Rodriguez of London Grove Township on Oct. 14 on two counts of indecent exposure and two counts of harassment after he exposed his genitals and asked two women for sex outside the Acme in London Grove Township, and at Rosehill Road and State Road in London Grove Township. Rodriguez was also charged, along with Samuel Thomas Strange of Landenberg, for distributing explicit videos and photos of a female victim on the internet in what police are calling a “revenge porn” case. CHURCH VANDALIZED Shelby Royle, 22, of Wilmington, Del., and Jaqueline Stepler, 20, of Newark, Del., were arrested and charged with burglary, criminal trespass and disorderly conduct on Nov. 6. Chester County Regional Police reported that at about 1:26 a.m., police were called to Saint Anthony in the Hills on Limestone Road in New Garden Township, for a possible burglary in progress. The caller reported hearing someone on the property yelling and breaking glass in a building near the amphitheater. Upon arrival at the scene, police found both women, who were combative, uncooperative and suspected to be intoxicated. An inspection of the building showed that a substantial amount of damage was done to the interior and exterior. Windows, tables, chairs and religious objects were broken, interior lights were

taken down, and graffiti was written on interior walls. Stepler and Royle were taken into custody. They were arraigned and initially committed to the Chester County Prison in lieu of posting $10,000 bail. Charges of institutional vandalism and criminal mischief will be added once an estimate of the damage is provided by the church. GUN VIOLATION AND THREATS Robert G. Fleming, 53, of New Castle, Del., was arrested by Southern Chester County Regional Police on Nov. 3 and charged with a firearms violation and assault-related offenses stemming from an alleged incident of road rage that occurred two days earlier. The incident occurred on Nov. 1 in the 9100 block of Gap Newport Pike in New Garden Township. The victim reported that he had turned on to southbound Gap Newport Pike from Limestone Road, in front of Fleming’s vehicle. Fleming flashed his high beams at the victim, and when the victim applied his brakes, Fleming passed his vehicle in a no-passing zone. Once past the victim, Fleming reportedly exited his vehicle and approached the victim’s car, carrying a handgun. Fleming pointed the gun at the victim and said he could kill the victim. Fleming then returned to his vehicle and left the scene. The victim was able to provide a registration number for the vehicle and a description of Fleming. He was not licensed to carry a firearm. A Ruger 9mm pistol, believed to be the weapon displayed by Fleming was seized. He was taken into custody and arraigned, after which he was committed to the Chester County Prison in lieu

of bail. POLICE PROBE THEFTS OF CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT Pennsylvania State Police Avondale are investigating the thefts of construction equipment from five Asplundh trucks while they were parked at a London Grove Township work site overnight on Sept. 27. Police were able to get fingerprints from the trucks and the thefts are under investigation. SHOPLIFTING ARREST According to Pennsylvania State Police Avondale, on Nov. 10, Dawn Kellar Cordero, 23, of Oxford, put several cosmetic items in her purse and tried to leave the Walmart store in Oxford without paying. She was stopped by security, issued a citation by police, and released. The store recovered all the items. VACUUMS STOLEN On Oct. 14, a man placed two Dyson vacuum cleaners in his cart at the Avondale Lowe’s store and left without paying, driving off in a red Dodge Stratus, according to Pennsylvania State Police Avondale. He has not been apprehended. DUI AND CHILD ENDANGERMENT CHARGES On Nov. 13, Pennsylvania State Police Avondale got a report of an erratic driver southbound on Route 1. After a traffic stop, the driver, a 30-year-old woman, was found to be under the influence of controlled substances. A search of the car revealed eight grams of marijuana and a bag of suspected heroin. The woman was charged with DUI, drug possession and endangering the welfare of a child who was in the car with her.

CHESTER COUNTY PRESS

Franklin Township posts proposed 2018 budget By John Chambless Staff Writer The Fr a n k l i n Township Board of Supervisors has announced and posted the 2018 township budget. At their Nov. 15 meeting, the board said the 2018 proposed final budget is available for public inspection Monday through Friday at the township municipal off ice (20 Municipal Lane, Kemblesville), and online at www. franklintownship.us. The combined budget expenditure amount is proposed at $2,583,603.45. The supervisors will consider adoption of the 2018 budget at the Dec. 20 public meeting. The budget reflects no change in real estate taxes, and the total millage rate remains the same at 2.495. Township manager Joan McVaugh updated the board on some zoning issues. Progress is being made on the cleanup of a property at 308 Heather Hills. The township has filed a civil complaint in District Court against the owner of the closed Sunoco gas station at 1762 New London

Road in Kemblesville, and McVaugh also addressed concerns about a vehicle that has been parked on the property for a long time. H i s t o r i c a l Commission chairman Paul Lagasse reported that the Historical Commission discussed the Eastern Shore Natural Gas Fair Hill Loop. Work will begin on that project soon. Lagasse said the group was surprised that PennDOT has not moved forward with any Route 896 improvement updates. PennDOT has also made no progress on the Section 106 review, which deals with the historic properties which will be affected by the road improvements. McVaugh said she will try to contact PennDOT for updates. Jim German from the Franklin Sportsman’s Association reported that the group’s next road cleanup is scheduled for Dec. 10, and that the FSA is sponsoring a family in need for the holidays. Archery season closes on Nov. 25 and reopens Dec. 26 through Jan. 27. Shotgun season runs from Nov. 27 to Dec. 9, and reopens Dec. 26 to Jan. 27.

On a motion by board chairman John Auerbach, The board adopted a resolution that prohibits building a Category 4 licensed facility (a “mini casino”) in the township. A mini casino has no fewer than 300 and no more than 750 table games and slots. The township has until Dec. 31 to notify the state of the township’s position. The motion passed unanimously. In a discussion of improvements slated for the township office, the board agreed that before any more improvements can be made to the inside of the office or to the site, Municipal Lane will need to be re-sloped and repaved. Water coming into the building continues to be a problem, and the board would like to improve the appearance of the municipal site. The supervisors will consider the work as part of the 2018 road program. For updates on township news, visit www.franklintownship. us. To contact Staff Writer John Chambless, email jchambless@ chestercounty.com.

J. Patrick Curran www.jpatrickcurran.com JPatrickCurran@gmail.com 699 W. Baltimore Pike, West Grove, PA 19390 484-748-6200 Direct: 610-656-7382

Absolutely beautiful home on the 18th fairway of the renowned Wyncote Golf Course. Unique open floor plan design. Soaring two story foyer with grand staircase. Fabulous eat in kitchen w/granite countertops, dual wall ovens, gas cooktop, center island. Large morning room/sunroom w/cathedral ceiling which opens to a four level stamped concrete patio. First Floor Owner's suite with a sitting area, dressing room/ closet and luxury bath. The lower level offers entertainment room, billiard room, wet bar/mini kitchen, huge guest room with daylight entry & patio, office, gym & full tiled bath. This space could easily accommodate an inlaw suite. $519,900

Beautiful 2 story home in the popular neighborhood of Twin Ponds. Entertainer's kitchen with gorgeous white cabinetry center island w/seating, & hardwood flooring. Sliding glass door opens to rear 2 level maintenance free composite deck and manicured fenced rear yard. Owner's suite w/private 4 piece bath and 5' shower. Lower level is finished with den and large recreation room. Home is freshly painted. Patio, raised garden beds, play set and shed. Fresh paint and carpet. $294,900

Oxford- Quick settlement possible! Nestled on a private 1.9 Acre /- lot at the end of a long lane in the Borough. Retreat style home with expansive porches, wrap around deck, balcony and patio. Cedar lined All Season Sun Room with pine flooring. Family room w/fireplace. Living room with brick fireplace, built-in bookshelves, triple windows, random width floors and access to rear porch. Finished daylight walkout lower level. Charming home in parklike setting with brick walks, springhouse and detached garage. $249,900

Quaint home situated in a quiet neighborhood at the edge of the borough. Large formal living room with picture window and beautiful laminate wood style flooring. Formal dining room with access to rear deck. Spacious L shaped kitchen with splendid painted white cabinetry,pantry Main level en suite guest room, 3 additional rooms and hall bath finish out the main level. The lower level is finished with a recreation room and an additional office /bedroom with full bath. Lower level egress door. Expansive rear deck, Beautiful grounds with mature trees and shrubbery. Home sits nicely back from street. $199,900

CHESTER COUNTY PRESS

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 2017

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Wednesday, November 22, 2017

The traditions of ‘A Brandywine Christmas’ “A Brandywine Christmas” offers visitors of all ages a spectacular holiday experience including a gallery filled with a large model train display, towering holiday trees decorated for the season with “Critter” ornaments, and a wide selection of holiday events and programs the whole family can enjoy. The annual celebration opens on Nov. 24 at the museum in Chadds Ford. Brandywine Railroad The model train display, a holiday family favorite since 1972, offers scale model trains made by Lionel, Williams, Atlas, Mike’s Train House, K-line and others. With more than 1,000 pieces – including locomotives, passenger and freight trains, and trolleys, all moving along 2,000 feet of track – the annual holiday exhibition is one of the largest modular model railroad installations in the world. Critter Ornaments Critters are ornaments and tabletop decorations that are handmade using natural materials. Each Critter has its own unique personality and expression – no two are exactly the same. From whimsical

animals to angels and stars, Critters come in all shapes and sizes. Using their imaginations, the Critter-maker volunteers work with natural materials such as pine cones, acorns, egg shells, flowers and seed pods to give each Critter its own unique personality and expression. Brandywine volunteers have been creating Critters for more than 40 years, with all proceeds benefitting the Volunteers’ Art Purchase Fund and Art Education & Programming. The annual public Critter Sale starts on Nov. 30 from 5 to 9 p.m. and continues on Dec. 1, 2, and 3 from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Critters will also be for sale in the museum gift shop from Dec. 4 top Jan. 7 while supplies last. Special holiday events and activities throughout the season include: Carols Concerts Sundays, Nov. 26, Dec. 3, 10, 17 and 31, 1 to 3 p.m. Listen to international opera singer Peter Campbell, accompanied by pianist Matthew Jewell. Included with museum admission. The Polar Express

Photo by Jacques-Jean Tiziou

Holiday trees decorated with handmade ‘Critter’ ornaments are an annual highlight of the exhibition.

Read-Aloud Pajama Night family program Thursday, Nov. 30, 7 to 8 p.m. Children are invited to wear their pajamas as they delight in the tale of “The Polar Express” and enjoy hot chocolate and cookies. Tickets are limited. $15 for adults, $8 for children; $6 for members -- includes museum admission. Annual Children’s Christmas Party Wednesday, Dec. 6, 6 to 8 p.m. Visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus and enjoy entertainment, costumed characters, face painting, model trains, antique dolls, trees adorned with hundreds of Critter ornaments, and Cookie Land. $15 for non-member adults; $5 for non-member children ages 3 to 11; $12 for member adults; free for member children and children under age 3.

A ‘Critter’ angel, made with natural materials by museum volunteers.

Breakfast with the Trains Saturdays, Dec. 9 and 16, 8:30 to 10 a.m. Join a behind-the-scenes visit with the Brandywine Railroad. Discover how the extensive layout is created

Photo by Carlos Alejandro

The huge operating model train layout features detailed scenery and local landmarks.

and the complicated multitasking it takes to keep everything running. This before-hours event includes a private tour of the trains in action with Brandywine Railroad engineers, including special activities for the youngest train fans and a continental breakfast in the Millstone Café. Children will receive a Brandywine Railroad souvenir; ages 3 and older accompanied by an adult are welcome. $20 for members; $25 for non-members. A 19th Century Christmastide Saturday, Dec. 9, 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Sing along as Rick Spencer presents familiar Christmas tunes from the Victorian age such as “God Bless Ye Merry Gentlemen” and “Here we come A-Wassailing.” Folksinger and composer Rick Spencer is known for his performances of music in the American folk tradition. Included with museum admission. Music of Ann Wyeth McCoy Tuesday, Dec. 12, 2 to

A ‘Critter’ Santa, sleigh and reindeer.

3 p.m. Donna M. Beech performs selections of Ann Wyeth McCoy’s music on piano. Included with museum admission. PECO Sensory-Friendly Train Morning Saturday, Jan. 6, 2018, 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. Enjoy early access to the museum’s Brandywine Railroad display during this accessible program designed for visitors on the autism spectrum or with sensory processing disorders. Space is limited and registration is required. Free museum admission. Terrific Trains family program

Saturday, Jan. 6, 2018, 10 a.m. to noon See the Brandywine Railroad and create a colorful train to display at home. Included with museum admission. The museum is open daily from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. (except Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day), and is on Route 1 in Chadds Ford. Admission is $18 for adults, $15 for seniors ages 65 and older, $6 for students and children ages 6 and older; free for children 5 and younger, and Brandywine Conservancy & Museum of Art members. For more information, call 610388-2700 or visit www. brandywinemuseum.org.

Photo by Jacques-Jean Tiziou

Children delight in the special décor at the museum during the holidays.

CHESTER COUNTY PRESS

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 2017

CHESTER COUNTY PRESS

Chester County mushroom grower breaks ground in China An owner of one of Chester County’s largest mushroom growers has broken ground on a state-ofthe-art mushroom production facility in China. Chris Alonzo, who is also an owner of Pietro Industries, based in Kennett Square, joined Chester County Commissioner Terence Farrell and Michael Grigalonis, Chief Operating Officer and Executive Vice President of the Chester County Economic Development Council (CCEDC), at the groundbreaking ceremony near Shanghai. Both Farrell and Grigalonis were key to introducing Alonzo and his management team to Chinese entrepreneurs, after the pair hosted 12 delegations in the last three years in Chester County. “This is an impressive development as we prepare, in Chester County, to host two more delegations from China,” Grigalonis said. “The ramifications are substantial not only for this local business leader, but also for the network of local businesses that support the mushroom industry in our region and now in China.” “This is a major step forward for the Chester County China Initiative, a joint program between the Chester County Commissioners and CCEDC tasked with developing relationships between China and Chester County to bring lasting benefits to businesses and residents of Chester County,” Farrell said. “A portion of the funding for this project will be poured back

into future initiatives for local businesses in China.” Almost 400 people attended the groundbreaking ceremony that concluded with the firing of cannons in Funan County, Anhui Province, near Shanghai. The event occurred on Oct. 10 at 10:18 a.m. (The number 18 is associated with prosperity in China.). Last May, the Chester County China Initiative sent its largest delegation yet to China, with Chester County government and business leaders exploring business opportunities during visits to Beijing, Xi’an, Chongqing (Yongchuan District), Shanghai and Yangzhou. The trip was also designed to identify possible Chinese investors for projects in Chester County. At the time, Alonzo was on the verge of signing the agreement with Chinese entrepreneurs that resulted in the groundbreaking. “Domestic demand for fresh mushrooms in China is growing fast, and the mushrooms we grow locally are getting popular all over China,” Alonzo said. “The construction of this new facility in China enables us to grow fresh and safe food for one of the world’s fastest growing economies.” Alonzo added that people in China consume more mushrooms per capita than Americans, and they enjoy many varieties. In the first phase of the project, he expects to grow about 12,000,000 pounds of mushrooms and provide jobs for approximately 200 people. The farm plans to

Courtesy photo

Almost 400 people attended the groundbreaking ceremony that concluded with the firing of cannons in Funan County, Anhui Province, near Shanghai.

become one of the larger single-site producers of mushrooms in the world. During the trip, CCEDC and the Chester County Commissioners also opened a China Desk in Shanghai that has been two years in the making. Located at Shimin Law, which also has offices in Philadelphia, the China Desk is designed to help Chester County-area companies gain a toehold in China by helping local companies learn about the China market as well as find and vet potential business partners. In addition, at the Chester County Board of Commissioners meeting, the commissioners formally approved a sister agreement with Funan County, Anhui Province, where the groundbreaking occurred. Such agreements are especially meaningful to

Chinese officials, who have also inked “sister county” agreements with Chester County and Yongchuan District, Chongqing Province; as well as Xixian New Area, Shaanxi Province. The Chester County Commissioners and CCEDC have hosted 12 delegations from China in the past three years. They’ve also made four previous trips to China since 2014 to foster ties with Chinese officials and business leaders. Such meetings have helped local businesses to gain work in China. Levante Brewing Company of West Chester is exploring opportunities to bring Levante beers to China. Other Chester County businesses that have participated are Symmetrical Investments, LLC, Eternity International Trading Company and Janice Kelsey of Solar CITIES, Inc.

Courtesy photo

Chester County Commissioner Terence Farrell, project developer Thomas Yang and Michael Grigalonis, Chief Operating Officer and Executive Vice President of the Chester County Economic Development Council, break ground on a state-of-the-art mushroom production facility in Funan County, Anhui Province near Shanghai.

CHESTER COUNTY PRESS

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 2017