Chester County Press 11-27-2024 Edition/Black Friday and Small Business Saturday Shoppers' Guide

Oxford Borough moves closer to finalizing budget

By Betsy Brewer Brantner Contributing Writer

For Oxford Borough and other municipalities, it’s budget time—and with that come problems and solutions.

Oxford Borough Council members have seen an increase in attendance by residents from inside and outside of the borough. Council members have mentioned more than once

that they welcome input on the budget.

This council has been increasingly supportive of the Oxford Library and the Oxford Area Recreation Authority, two organizations with modest budgets that serve the entire community.

The Oxford Library is the oldest library in Chester County and the third-oldest library in Pennsylvania. It serves people in the borough and the sur-

rounding townships with services such as access to computer technology, as a resource for those seeking employment opportunities, preparing for social security payments, as a drop-off site for electoral ballots and providing accessibility to workstations for those residents who have physical challenges.

Like the Oxford Library, the Oxford Area Recreation Authority (OARA) serves the people in the borough

Penn Township adds tax increase for emergency services

By Chris Barber Contributing Writer

The Penn Township Board of Supervisors approved an increase of one-quarter of one-percent to the township’s earned-income tax at its Nov. 19 township meeting.

In previous meetings, the supervisors discussed the needs expressed by the fire company and Medic 94 for more support because of the rising costs that those important organizations face.

One example they quoted from the West Grove Fire Company was that, in earlier years, a well-turned-out fire truck could be purchased

for about $500,000. Now it costs more than $1 million.

In addition to the material fees, they considered the need for around-the-clock professional staffing and the need to pay these professionals for the safety of the township residents.

The increase the supervisors approved will raise the fee on an annual income from half of one-percent to three quarters of onepercent. In financial terms, for example, a person who earns $50,000 a year would pay $375 next year. The current bill in 2024 for that same income would be $250.

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and surrounding townships. There are multiple sports fields used by everyone in the borough and the surrounding area. There are also numerous hiking trails throughout the park, and special events and holiday activities are held at the park, too. Picnicking areas and play areas also are provided.

Council has been trans-

parent with its budget discussions for these two agencies, as well as everything in the budget.

A special budget meeting was to be held on Monday, Nov. 25 to approve both the tax increase and the revised budget. A motion to advertise the 2025 budget was also to be approved at that meeting. Council also advised that

the borough office will be closed on Thanksgiving and the Friday after Thanksgiving. It was announced that the Oxford Regional Planning Committee is updating the 2012 multi-municipal comprehensive plan. Community members are encouraged to complete the online survey on the

UHS says ‘Goodbye’ to cherished coach and mentor ‘He was the embodiment of joy’

By Richard L. Gaw Staff Writer

The windswept Unionville High School baseball field became the site last Saturday afternoon to a memorial service for a friend, a coach, a mentor and a family member who richly deserved so many more innings in his life.

Before 200 mourners gathered in the infield

KACS was seeking. In fact, for an agency that provides food, crisis services, educational programs and affordable housing for people in 22 different municipalities in the county, the grant fell $4,225,000 short of the agency’s original $5 million request to RACP which, if received

Photo by Richard L. Gaw Guided by the hands of their parents, two young visitors enjoyed the opening day of A Longwood Christmas on Nov. 22, highlighted by the unveiling of Longwood Reimagined, a captivating,

reimagination of Longwood Gardens’

Photo by Richard L. Gaw

Unionville High School varsity baseball coach Chris Valis addresses a gathering of more than 200 family members, friends and players at a Nov. 23 memorial service at Unionville’s baseball field for former coach Daniel Urdaneta, who died recently after a battle with cancer.

Courtesy photo

The agency’s capital campaign committee is led by, from left to right, Anne Moran, Nancy Pia and Lynn Majarian.

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Oxford budget...

Continued from Page 1A borough’s website. Check out links for the survey.

The next meeting of the Oxford Regional Planning Committee is scheduled for Dec. 5 at 7 p.m. via Zoom. The group will discuss important issues like growth, transportation, housing, and environmental preservation in the greater Oxford area.

Water meter replacement was discussed. The company providing the new meters recommended the meter provider and they noted that they also submitted the most competitive bid.

Oxford Borough Police Department Sgt. Chris Coverly presented the police chief’s report. He stated that there had been 463 incidents in Oxford Borough thus far. This month there were seven criminal arrests, and two robberies. The robberies were unrelated to each other. Coverly also said a person they have been looking for for two years was located at a party. Coverly also encouraged everyone to sign up for Crime Watch.

Oxford Mayor Phil Harris announced that the 7U team of the Oxford Golden Bears won their championship this season. Harris also noted that he attended the recent Neighborhood Services Center (NSC) board meeting. Harris reminded everyone that 20 percent of borough’s residents fall under the poverty level. He reminded the public that NSC can always use assistance in its efforts to serve those in need.

Oxford Borough Manager Pauline Garcia-Allen said that 650 residents would be receiving letters regarding the use of copper and lead pipes. Efforts are underway to replace water mains every other year. More information will be forthcoming on this.

Garcia-Allen also provided an update on the property at 343 S. Third Street. She said the borough had made several attempts to identify the heir of the property and none have been found.

“This property is a good candidate for conservatorship,” she said, explaining that a conservator could go in and fix the blight. The conservator will not take away the property from the heirs. A hearing was held last week and the judge appointed the housing partnership to be the conservator. It is a path to repurpose the property.

In other business, borough council acted on the following motions:

Urdaneta...

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Banner” was in fact a pre-recorded version performed by Urdaneta before a game last year.

Urdaneta recently died at the age of 40 at his home after a short but courageous battle against cancer, leaving behind his wife, Kris and his son, Luca; his parents Nora Perdomo and Douglas Urdaneta; and several relatives.

As Urdaneta’s prized Harley-Davidson motorcycle gleamed in the sun behind home plate, two of his fellow coaches spoke about their respect for Urdaneta.

“Today, we gather to celebrate the life of ‘Coach Urd’ and as we reflect on his life, one word stands out above all others: happiness,” said UHS varsity baseball coach Chris Valis. “He was the embodiment of joy, not just in his infectious laughter, but in the way he saw the world. He had a gift for finding joy in the simplest of moments: the high-five, the laughter, the brotherhood and the way he made us feel valued, no matter where we stood in the line-up.

“So today, as difficult as it may be, I challenge all of us not to feel sorry for Coach, but instead, be happy for the life that he lived and the countless lives that he touched. Even as sick as Coach became, he never felt sorry for himself. He never asked for our pity. Instead, he challenged all of us. He challenged his players to work harder than ever, to embrace the grind and to use this amazing game as an inspiration for how to live their lives through hard work, accountability and teamwork. He challenged our coaches to support our players, not

Local News Chester

just now, but throughout the rest of their lives. He challenged us to never give up on anyone, and that it was up to us to bring out the best in every player who steps on our field.”

“I am going through all of the text messages that I had with him, and it has dawned on me that there is a common theme to them: they were all positive,” said Chris Gebhart. “I never heard him say a bad thing about anybody. I spent many hours in the car with them trying to convince him how awful some people were, and his response was always, ‘No. This person is okay. Don’t be like that. It’s all good.’

“Every time I saw the guy, no matter what mood I was in, he made me smile.”

During the ceremony, Luca Urdaneta gifted his father’s baseball jacket to one of his former players, Gavin Griffith, who then approached the podium to speak about his coach and mentor.

Several of Urdaneta’s former players attended the service.

“I never thought I would ever have to say ‘Goodbye’ to him,” Griffith said. “We can honor his memory and his love for us and the game by being a role model that he was for us. I will be grateful for every memory that we had together, especially when our JV team ordered pizza from the dugout during a game, and when someone stole his donuts, and he made us run around the campus.

“I will be grateful for every one of those memories.” Donations in Urdaneta’s memory can be made to the UHS Diamond Club. Donations can be sent via PayPal to

DiamondClubUHS@ gmail.com or by mailing checks to UHS Diamond Club c/o Chris Manning, P.O. Box 958, Unionville, Pa. 19375.

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

• Consideration of 2025 funding requests from the Oxford Area Historical Association, Oxford Area Recreation Authority and the Oxford Region Planning Committee’s Historic Preservation subcommittee. This was tabled and a motion was made to discuss this when the 2025 budget is discussed.

• A presentation of the draft 2025 General Fund Budget, water budget and capital budgets and a motion to authorize advertising the budget notice and schedule adoption of the 2025 budget for December 16. Council did not approve the draft budget because of more discussions that are needed to review the contributions

• Consideration of Historical Architectural Review Board (HARB) Certificate of Appropriateness for 436 Market Street. This was denied. The owner wanted to paint the red brick, and the HARB instead recommended the gentle removal of paint and the application of sealer to protect the brick.

to OARA and the Oxford Library. In addition, the .13 mill tax increase was proposed, which changed the draft budget figures.

• An agreement with Union Fire Company No. 1 for fire protection and services in 2025 in the amount of $135,249.60 was approved.

• An agreement with Union Fire Company No. 1 Ambulance Division for ambulance transportation and emergency service in 2025 in the amount of $130,102 was approved.

• An agreement with Medic 94 for advanced life support and paramedic services in 2025 in the amount of $47,871 was approved.

• Authorization to advertise an ordinance accepting the dedication of improvements in Phases 1, 2, and 4 of Sycamore Crossing was approved subject to receipt of final documents from the developer.

• Authorization to advertise an ordinance accepting

dedication of improvements in the Coldiron subdivision, subject to receipt of final documents from the developer was approved.

• Acceptance of an extension which will run through and include the date December 2 for review of Enox Land LP’s preliminary land development plan of the Moran Farms Property was approved.

• A resolution authorizing submission of a statewide local share account program grant application to the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development to support improvements to the Borough Water Plant was approved.

• A letter of support for the Oxford Area Historical Association’s grant application to the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development’s statewide local share account program to sup-

port the acquisition of the old Oxford school building located at 119 S. Fifth Street was approved.

• Ratification of approval of a letter of support for the Housing Partnership of Chester County’s (HPCC) application to the PHFA Pennsylvania Housing Affordability and Rehabilitation Enhancement Fund to support HPCC’s Conservatorship Program was approved.

• Ratification of approval of the second addendum to the Delaware Valley Health

Trust agreement changing the borough health plan was approved.

• Consideration of Historical Architectural Review Board Certificate of Appropriateness for 703 Market Street was approved.

• Consideration of Historical Architectural Review Board Certificate of Appropriateness for 19 N. 3rd Street was approved.

• Consideration of Historical Architectural Review Board Certificate of Appropriateness for 24 S. 3rd Street was approved.

Photos by Richard L. Gaw

Former player Gavin Griffith accepted Urdaneta’s baseball jacket from the Urdaneta family, and then reflected on the impact his former coach had on him.

Penn Township...

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The residents also pay a property tax to the township at the rate of .53 mills. A mill is a tax rate of $1 for

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accounted for about onethird of the estimated $15 million needed to construct KACS’ planned new facility in Kennett Square.

“I paused, and then I told the elected official that this is devastating news,” Reynolds said of the phone call. “It was devastating that we didn’t get any more than that for this kind of anchor institution that the community needs.”

Within seconds after the call, the entire staff and board of KACS galvanized to push the re-start button that saw the agency re-set its fundraising strategies and develop a communications plan that began when the board recently held a finance meeting to create possible fundraising pathways to compensate for the lowerthan-expected grant from RACP.

In addition, KACS is working with the grant writer Wright Horne, who has been assisting the agency “find” possible grant money and is tapping the strength of its capital campaign committee, led by Lynn Majarian, Nancy Pia and Anne Moran.

“We have three amazing co-chairs representing this campaign who are talking about it to everyone on their contact list, and all of their children are also 100 percent commit-

every $1000 worth of property value they own.

In a written statement, board Chairman Victor Mantegna wrote, “This modest increase to the earned-income tax will

ted to the project,” Reynolds said. “People see the value in helping non-profits get into better facilities, such as the Kennett Library’s new building and KACS’ planned new facility – an example of agencies who serve many municipalities.”

While KACS readjusts its fundraising strategy, it does so in the shadow of a blueprint that spells out a brand-new, 24,000-squarefoot facility that is being proposed for construction along West Cypress Street in Kennett Square. The new location will provide much-needed space for its Food Cupboard, its social services, its educational programs and better facilities for agency staff and volunteers to work with families who are experiencing hunger, homelessness and a lack of services.

Despite having to make up the $4.2 million that it anticipated from RACP, KACS’s fundraising campaign has already raised nearly $7.4 million toward their $15 million goal:

• $183,000 in donations from the PA Community & Economic Assistance Program, a Keystone grant and interest income

• $2 million in individual and private donations

• $1.24 million in individual and corporate pledges

• $950,000 in in-kind donations of furniture and

allow us to maintain our facilities and services while providing for our emergency partners, and taking care not to impose a tax increase on our fixed income residents.”

land for building site

• $237,000 in in-kind pledges and

• $2.7 million in grants.

While the exact date of the groundbreaking for the new facility is still to be determined, Reynolds said that she envisions the event as being one of inclusion that will prioritize the partnering agencies who work with KACS to build a better community.

“I have already been speaking with our colleagues at other agencies that when we do this groundbreaking, we want all of them to be together with us on that land,” she said. “We are going to fill that property up with all the families that come here, all of the volunteers and all of the staff, and everyone will have a shovel of some kind, and together, we will do this. The people who use our facilities and seek our services will be front and center, and it will be powerful.

“That full commitment [from RACP] would have been helpful to have and driven things more quickly, but time and time again, no matter what has happened over the last five years in this area, this community continues to affirm that this agency should stay open,” Reynolds added. “I have absolute and total confidence that we will get there. It’s just going to be a different path and we’re

Supervisor Jay Ennis reported that repairs and updates to the Red Rose Inn had been completed, including a broken window on the second floor.

The Red Rose Inn will

just re-setting, because we don’t see this as a loss as just a change in direction. It’s putting everything else aside and getting to work.”

“This community is not

hold its last open house of 2024 on Dec. 8 from noon to 2 p.m.

Also on that day, the township invites the community to “Winter Wonderland in Penn Township Park.”

going to let this new building fail.”

For more information about KACS’ new facility and to make a contribution to its fundraising campaign,

This holiday event will feature music, beer and wine for sale, cupcakes, pictures with Santa (3:30-5:30 p.m.), a magician (2:15 p.m.) and Grumpy Grinch (4:30 to 6 p.m.).

visit www.KACSImpact.org/ NewHome.

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

Courtesy images

Through private and corporate donations and grants, Kennett Area Community Service’s fundraising efforts have already raised nearly $7.4 million for the construction of its new $15 million facility. KACS...

East Penn Railroad 'Santa Train' to return Dec. 14

By Chris Barber Contributing Writer

The Santa Train that last December traversed the East Penn Railroad tracks from Kennett Square to West Grove will return this year on Dec. 14.

The event, which featured stops at Toughkenamon and Avondale as well, was so popular that East Penn Railroad is adding Oxford to the trip this year.

Avondale Borough Mayor Susan Rzucidlo came up with the idea, having been urged, she said, by West Grove Borough Mayor Stephen Black. She took the plan to Regional Rail Vice President Don Craumer, who accepted the challenge to work out details.

Regional Rail is the parent company of the local East Penn line that runs from Chadds Ford to Nottingham. It is housed at the Kennett Square train station.

Last year, the Santa Train came as something of a surprise to the public, because it was not announced until the week before.

Craumer said recently, “I thought maybe four people would show up. I was working in my office when a colleague came in and said, ‘You better look out there.’”

To his surprise and amazement, Craumer saw the entire parking lot overflowing with cars and scores of people standing waiting for the train to appear. Many of the visitors were not only families with children –

their affection for trains.

Santa arrived, standing at the head of the decorated engine and waving to the spectators.

Craumer said he heard that news of the train spread fast online that morning, and even as the train left Kennet Square, people along the western route, folks were reacting and going to see it.

In West Grove there were several hundred people.

This is the preliminary schedule for 2024, with 25-minute stops at each town:

• Kennett Square, 10 a.m.

• Toughkenamon, 10:45 a.m.

• Avondale, 11:20 a.m.

• West Grove, noon

• Oxford, 1:25 p.m.

People familiar with train lore said there are various kinds of Santa trains.

In some communities, parents pay to have their children board that train and have lunch with Santa. That is not the case with this East Penn event.

It’s free.

Also, with the Santa Train making stops in southern Chester County, Santa rides the one-engine train along the tracks with the engineer and is quite happy to climb down for photos. He does not sit for a line to hear what the children ask for on their Christmas lists. He poses for pictures and shakes hands with the kids.

East Penn Railroad is one of 16 small freight rail lines under the Regional Rail

ownership. These railroads are located as far away as Ohio and Florida, but are connected regionally to the entire national railroad track network.

Regional Rail recently acquired another small system in Ohio – Cincinnati Eastern.

Craumer said, “If you ever drank from a paper cup, it likely came on that line.”

East Penn carries supplies to many companies along southern Chester County including corn and cornmeal for Herr’s, flour for Tastykake, lumber, mushroom supplies and natural gas to name just a few.

The East Penn Railroad is currently successful and fully functional, and has

fully moved past the threat of abandonment in 1972.

A group of local supporters, including late community activist Fred McCarthy, helped East Penn bounce back and become sustainable.

McCarthy’s son, former Kennett Square Police Chief Albert McCarthy, said his father testified locally and at the county level to keep the train because it was vital to the development of southern Chester County.

Other more recent supporters advocate for the

train because it takes a tremendous amount of truck traffic off the roads.

Craumer, a 30-year veteran of East Penn, splits the operations of the 16 railroads with East Penn General Manager Zach Faubel.

Craumer said that he began at East Penn at the entry level, replacing railroad ties.

He added that Regional Rail will remain a freight rail because passenger lines are much more costly to run and risk more insurance liability.

Regional Rail Vice President and Santa Train planner Don Craumer stands beside the large vehicle that clears debris from the tracks. but also adults who never outgrew

Photos by Chris Barber

Santa Helper Paul Morgan descends from the train in 2023 and greets children who came to see him.

Housing for the butcher, the baker and the candlestick maker

In a borough top-heavy with progress and runaway success, a shining ray of fairness and equity recently shone down on those living there who cannot afford to enjoy the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow.

At a Nov. 7 presentation at the Kennett Library, representatives from several architectural, engineering, legal, traffic and development agencies formally introduced a concept that has been on the back burner of Kennett Square Borough’s residential radar for more than the past decade. Speaker by speaker and slide by slide, those in attendance witnessed the unveiling of the proposed residential complex at the 22-acre former site of the National Vulcanized Fibre Company (NVF) along West Mulberry Street in the borough.

The first half of the presentation introduced the proposed construction of 294 residential units that will include 246 single-family townhomes, 38 single-family townhomes and 104 stacked townhomes, projected to be priced between the upper $300,000s for a 1,200 square-foot residence to the low-to-mid $500,000s for a 2,220-square foot residence.

It was nothing new to residents of a borough that have seen a veritable residential construction bonanza dramatically alter its landscape in recent years. Kennett Pointe, The Flats at Kennett, Magnolia Place Apartments and, most recently, the Kennett Square Apartments and a new, 16-acre residential and commercial development springing up on Walnut Road have risen – and continue to rise -- in the aftermath of a borough that has handed over the key to its identity to real estate developers, who offer “luxury living” at rates and prices that are unthinkable to the working class, and in the process have converted the dynamics of a town that once honored its diversity to one that only honors those who can afford the price tag of living there.

Then, about halfway through the presentation, the ray of hope that many residents of the borough and throughout southern Chester County have been anxiously hoping for suddenly began to shine. Glen Morgan, a principal of Delaware Valley Development Corporation (DVDC), introduced 48 mixed-income and affordable multifamily residential units that are being proposed as part of the NVF residential complex.

Residents of these affordable housing units can expect to pay monthly rent that will start at approximately $300 for a one-bedroom unit and go up to $1,400 for a three-bedroom unit. The complex will be green friendly, constructed under energy star certifications and offer residents a full support of services that will include a clubhouse with professional property management and 24-hour maintenance and accompanied by 149 additional parking spaces. This is not the first affordable housing option DVDC has or is proposed to develop; the company has already developed 35 affordable communities in the area that include Granite Ridge in Kennett Township and Red Clay Manor in Kennett Square.

The vision of Delaware Valley Development Corporation to design affordable housing options in southern Chester County can and must serve as the guidepost for future residential development, and every stakeholder of every municipality in this region – every elected official, planning commission member and township manager – needs to write in their contracts with every developer that a portion of all planned residential development must include affordable housing options.

Morgan described the 48 units as “housing for the butcher, the baker and the candlestick maker.” His words were accurate, heartfelt and specific to those who contribute the most to the way of life that many in Kennett Square Borough have come to enjoy, and are afraid of losing, permanently.

State agency should focus on Chester’s financial issues rather than burden ratepayers with sale of Chester Water Authority

Letter to the Editor:

The Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) has been aggressively attempting to seize control of the Chester Water Authority (CWA) and monetizing its assets by improperly requesting the federal bankruptcy court to exercise its powers over separate, financially responsible government entities like the CWA, raising significant concerns about the negative economic impact on over 45,000 CWA ratepayers. CWA ratepayers are angry and want DCED to take their hands off their beloved public water utility.

This exploitative DCED strategy involves funding very expensive resources, including the contract for state-appointed receiver Michael Doweary, Chief

of Staff VJ Kapoor and various consultants and law firms. Public information reveals that the receiver’s contracts total well over $10 million, with notable expenditures such as $913,720 for the Chief of Staff, plus $385,000 for each year the contract is extended, and nearly $3.4 million allocated to PFM Group Consulting LLC for financial advice.

CWA ratepayers argue that this ill-advised use of funds could have been better applied toward directly addressing Chester’s financial issues or promoting community development and business growth in the city. DCED’s focus on CWA as its primary solution appears fundamentally and fatally flawed; it overlooks the Authority’s independent governance status and risks providing only an unsustainable fix, at

most, to deep-rooted financial problems in the City of Chester. Moreover, any attempt to use CWA to bail out Chester will lead to massively higher water bills that will likely double or triple for over 200,000 residents across 37 municipalities, unfairly shifting the burden of the City of Chester’s financial woes onto innocent ratepayers, the vast majority of whom reside outside of the City of Chester.

Additionally, the aggressive pursuit of CWA raises questions about the DCED’s accountability and transparency in Chester’s financial decline. Instead of addressing its own shortcomings, the department seems intent on making CWA and its ratepayers bear the costs of years of its own mismanagement.

To move forward constructively, the DCED should focus on sustainable solu-

Guest column

tions that address the root causes of Chester’s financial issues, explore alternative revenue sources that do not burden CWA ratepayers, and implement stricter oversight measures to prevent future crises. Ultimately, the DCED’s fixation on CWA as a “magical silver bullet” is not only misguided but potentially harmful to a well-run, independent water authority and its ratepayers, not to mention the precedent it threatens to set for healthy, well-run authorities across the Commonwealth. An immediate reassessment of this approach by the DCED is essential for finding more effective solutions to Chester’s financial challenges.

Small Business Saturday kicks off a ‘Season of Small Business’

Support small businesses and gift big, shop local this holiday season

By John Fleming SBA Mid-Atlantic regional administrator

The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is once again encouraging Americans to remember their local small retailers and restauranteurs when making their winter holiday shopping plans this year. While social media, TV and billboards are already being flooded with Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals from the major chains and online shopping sites, we at the SBA know that mom-and-pop shops, corner bakeries, and Main Street markets owned by your friends and neighbors are competing against “the big guys” with bottomless marketing budgets to finish the year “in the black.”

Join us in celebrating the

33.3 million small businesses igniting our economy and enriching our communities throughout the year (20 million of which started during the Biden-Harris Administration). We are once again partnering with American Express and other organizations across the country this holiday shopping season to celebrate Small Business Saturday (the Saturday after Thanksgiving) —a day to honor and support small businesses for all they contribute to our communities. It’s how we all can do our part to support economic growth in our own neighborhoods. Last year’s Small Business Saturday packed a big punch for the U.S. economy: consumers generated approximately $18 billion in reported spending at small businesses.

Beyond just one day, we are once again calling on Americans to make their entire holiday shopping experience a “Season of Small Business” by spending more at Main Street shops and restaurants. It’s as easy and satisfying as it is impactful.

On average, small businesses create two out of three net new jobs in your town, and America’s small restaurants employ millions and generate billions of dollars in sales.

Shopping local strengthens your local economy and keeps more of your hard-earned dollars local while receiving high-quality products and services in return.

In so many ways, small businesses are the glue that holds our communities together. I encourage you to join me and more than 100

million Americans in shopping and dining small on Small Business Saturday as you check off items on your holiday shopping list. Share your stories and where you’re shopping on social media using #ShopSmall. This year, to help bring attention to our locally owned retailers and restauranteurs, the SBA is visiting neighborhoods near you. In Pennsylvania, the Eastern Pennsylvania District Office recently visited West Chester for a Small Business Walk to meet with local business owners to highlight the impact their presence and your dollars have on making our Eastern Pennsylvania small businesses a great place to live and shop. Thank you for shopping small this holiday season.

Education receives major victory in Pa. following court case

State Rep. Stephenie Scialabba (R-Butler) announced the Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE) is rescinding guidelines on its Culturally-Relevant and Sustaining Education (CR-SE) Standards following a successful lawsuit filed in 2023 by Scialabba, and Tom King and Tom Breth of Dillon McCandless King Coulter & Graham L.L.P. in Butler.

Mars High School, located in Scialabba’s legislative district, was one of several plaintiffs in this legal challenge through the Commonwealth Court of Pennsylvania.

“This is a major victory for teachers, students and parents in our great Commonwealth,” said Scialabba. “It is a relief to know school entities no longer need to fear loss of funding over these standards. Today’s result is a win for the First Amendment and

reaffirms the conservative commitment to providing students with a quality, nononsense, factual education that is free of ideology. I am overjoyed to see this result.”

According to the signed mediated settlement agreement, a portion of the win reads as follows:

“The Department hereby rescinds the previously issued Culturally-Relevant and Sustaining Education (‘CRSE’) Program Framework Guidelines. School entities (public schools, school districts, intermediate units, area career and technical schools, charter schools, cyber schools, and independent schools) have no legal obligation to implement or comply with the (CR-SE) Program Framework Guidelines.”

According to Scialabba, these standards threatened to withhold funding from all school entities unless they fully adopted and incorpo-

rated the guidelines into their trainings and curriculum. They also were designed to withhold teaching certifications for new and existing teachers until the accompanying trainings were satisfactorily completed. She added that the trainings were rooted in the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) and Critical Race Theory (CRT) agendas, going so far as to state that “equity requires a passport to discriminate” and requiring teachers and curriculum to “believe and acknowledge that micro-aggressions are real.”

Teachers were also mandated to the following:

• Actively counter deficit-based and invalidating behavior in themselves and others by engaging in affirming practices.

• Challenge their own beliefs, attitudes, assumptions and behaviors regarding

the knowledge and backgrounds of dominant and non-dominant social groups, thinking critically about the nuances of culture, identity, and other social markers, and how they manifest themselves in curricula and other education materials.

• Know and acknowledge that biases exist in the educational system, and disrupt harmful institutional practices, policies, and norms by advocating and engaging in efforts to rewrite policies, change practices, and raising awareness.

• Engage in critical and difficult conversations with others to deepen their awareness of their own conscious/ unconscious biases, stereotypes and prejudices.

• According to the agreement, PDE will be sending formal notice to each school entity to notify them of the official rescinding of the standards.

Leonard J. Rivera Board member, Board secretary of the Chester Water Authority

Thousands enjoy new West Conservatory, 1906 restaurant

Longwood Reimagined: A New Garden Experience officially opens

By Caroline Roosevelt Contributing Writer

Last week, amidst the spitting sleet of the first cold day of November, Longwood Gardens

debuted its latest love letter to the world: Longwood

Reimagined: A New Garden Experience, that includes a sleek, airy building, reminiscent of a grand Victorian greenhouse infused with elements of modernity found nestled in its arched columns and soaring peaks.

Designed by New Yorkbased architecture firms West 8 and Weiss/Manfredi, the West Conservatory has been 15 years in the making. Alongside the painstakingly energy efficient, 2,000-pane glass cathedral, Longwood has also unveiled a new Bonsai Garden, its sprucedup Waterlily Court, and breathtaking new digs for 1906, its restaurant.

Crossing the transom from the East Conservatory

to the new building felt familiar and refreshing all at once. Families entered the new landscape with strollers in tow, and as I entered, I glanced outside the floor-to-ceiling windows at the sideways sleet and breathed a sigh of relief.

Shallow troughs of water, like little channels, accompany the walkways in the new 32,000 square-foot conservatory. The stark white metal columns and archway systems play nicely with the Bismark Palms, and the sage colored fronds of these trees fan out gloriously in a grove of eight, cementing themselves as the centerpiece to the new garden.

Cypress trees, bay laurel shrubs and pineapple guava all mingled together in foggy shades of green, broken up only by the light pouring in from the glass panels (even on this incredibly overcast day) and the twinkling pale lights interspersed throughout for the holiday season filled the air with a summery, tuscan scent, and it became easy to forget that winter is on its way.

Located adjacent to the new West Conservatory, the Bonsai Courtyard will soon house one of North America’s most outstanding bonsai collections.

in vintage patina but with just enough reflective surface to take advantage of the light pouring in from the adjacent main fountain garden.

The reflecting pools and new outdoor Bonsai Courtyard surround the West Conservatory and provide familiar context to another new addition known as The Grove, complete with a state-of-the-art library.

The 1906 dining room, just below the East Conservatory, boasts a brand-new dining experience with grand arched floor-to-ceiling windows, and vaulted ceilings with beautiful inlaid detail. The space is not the only recipient of a stunning new upgrade; the menu has also been reimagined. I saddled up to the bar that featured mirrors covered

The cocktail menu is comprehensive, and features concoctions that include herbs grown in house. I tried the Celestial Beet - a creation of mezcal, bonal (an herbal liquor, I learned), beet juice, celery and lime. The combination was playful - savory and sweet and the presentation was seasonally appropriate in the guise of a beet-red cocktail that arrived with a dehydrated candy cane beet chip floating on top. Sadly, I had to keep my wits about

On Nov. 22 – after three years of construction -Longwood Reimagined: A New Garden Experience opened to the public and served as a visual and holiday joy for those who stepped into the new West Conservatory for the first time.

me, so the other cocktails will have to wait - but I’m already looking forward to my next visit.

The bar/lounge is your best bet without a reservation, as the dining room is by reservation, and you’ll definitely need one.

The unique menu incorporates flora from the on-site ornamental garden.

The dishes are separated by Flora, Funga, Fauna/ Pasture, Fauna/Ocean.

The Beef Carpaccio with burrata, egg yolk, and black lime caught my eye immediately. Longwood Gardens is entering a new era – a generous blend of the old with the new and done to perfection in a respectful, but unique, manner. From the architecture, to menus, to the new garden itself - visitors are in for an artfully detailed, beautifully curated, experience.

Longwood Gardens is open to the public from 10 a.m. – 11 p.m. daily for the much celebrated “A Longwood Christmas,” which will be on view through January 15th. Pre-order tickets online (recommended) at https:// longwoodgardens.org.

Photos by Richard L. Gaw Holiday floral arrangements graced the ceiling of the new Conservatory.

The new West Conservatory is a breathtaking canopy of flowers, fauna, firs and fruit.

Nestled beneath the Main Conservatory, the new 1906 restaurant offers diners

eclectic and seasonal menus, an extensive cocktail selection and stunning vistas of the Main Fountain Garden.

RUTH ANN MAHAFFEY

Ruth Ann Mahaffey, 76, of Conowingo, Md., passed away at home on October 7, 2024.

She was born in West Grove, the daughter of the late Mary Louise Cooper.

Ruth was employed as a cook at Varsity Grill in Oxford. She retired from there after many years.

She enjoyed playing bingo and watching the “Perry Mason Show.”

Ruth is survived by one daughter, Lisa Johnson (Robert Wood), one son, Jimmy Mahaffey (Destiny), ten grandchildren, Sam, Sandra (Rick), Gabrielle, Amber (Dave), Shyann, Robert, Jr., Sophia, Lacey, Sky and Nathan, and one brother, Scott Cooper.

She was preceded in death by one grandson, Michael, and two brothers, Michael Brown and Sam Cooper.

Services will be private.

Arrangements are being handled by the Edward L. Collins, Jr. Funeral Home, Inc. (www.elcollinsfuneralhome.com) in Oxford.

BETTY JEAN HALLMAN

Betty J. McLennan Hallman, 81, of West Grove, passed away on November 12, 2024 at Twin Pines Health Center.

She was the wife of the late Charles M. Hallman, with whom she shared 50 years of marriage. Born on September 25, 1943 in Elkton, Md., she was the daughter of the late James and Jeanie McIntyre McLennan and step-father Alex McLennan.

Betty was a graduate of Bohemia Manor High School in Chesapeake City, Md.

She worked several years as the secretary for the Borough of Avondale. She also worked at Wawa in Avondale and Kennett Square, and at Genuardi’s Market in Longwood before retiring.

She enjoyed spending time with her family, watching Phillies baseball, gardening, fishing, metal detecting, enjoying puzzles and not letting her grandchildren win in board games. She spent many years volunteering and umpiring for the Avon Grove Little League.

ELIZABETH MAULE COLLINS

Elizabeth Maule Collins passed away on November 16, 2024. She was 90.

Elizabeth, or Betsey as she was known, was born in West Grove on March 4, 1934 to Walter William and Charlotte Way Maule. Betsey met Peter Collins at George School and they married in 1954.

In the 1970s, Betsey co-founded The Resettlers, a relocation service that specialized in helping folks condense a lifetime of belongings into a smaller living space. Later Betsey earned her real estate license, and she treasured the years working for Beiler-Campbell Realtors.

After retiring, Betsey and Pete moved to the north woods of Maine. She enjoyed snowshoeing and crosscountry skiing and was an active member of the local historical society and Grange.

In 2009, Betsey and Pete moved back to Pennsylvania to be closer to family and lifelong friends.

Betty is survived by three sons, Dave (Anita) Hallman, Glenn (Cathy) Hallman, and Michael (Stacey) Hallman, seven grandchildren, one greatgrand daughter, and two siblings, Jack McLennan and Elsie Hufford.

In addition to her husband and parents, she is preceded in death by her brothers, Bill and Bob McLennan, and a sister, Nancy Poore.

Services will be private. Interment will be at Fort Indiantown Gap National Cemetery.

The family would like to thank Twin Pines Health Care Center and Willow Tree Hospice.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to your local charity during the upcoming holidays.

Arrangements are being handled by the Edward L. Collins, Jr. Funeral Home, Inc. in Oxford.

Betsey was a member of the YAG Club, a group she joined when she was 16, and she attended her last monthly meeting in May, after her 90th birthday. Other memberships included London Grove Friends Meeting and Maple Grove Mennonite Church.

Betsey will be remembered for her sense of adventure, her gentle spirit, her abundant kindness, and her homemade pies.

She was preceded in death by her husband Pete and her brother Raymond. Betsey is survived by her three children, Bradford (Lee Ann), Stephen (Laurie) and Laura (Samuel), eight grand-children and twelve greatgrandchildren, her nephew Larry Maule and nieces Carol Hornung and Kathy Kirk, and their families. She is also survived by her cousin Alice Way Waddington and her lifelong best friend, Elisabeth (Betsy) Walker.

But they who wait for the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint.

Isaiah 40:31

TheChesterCountyPressfeaturesadedicatedchurch/religious pagethatcanhelpyouadvertiseyourhouseofworshipand/or business.Thepageisupdatedweeklywithnewscripture.Only$10 Weeklyforthisspace. Weareofferingaspecialdiscountof25%offeachandeveryhelp wanted/classifiedadvertisementtoanybusinessthatadvertiseson thePRESSchurchpage. For more information or to place an ad, contact Brenda Butt at 610-869-5553 ext. 10

Local student volunteers for Alvernia Turkey Drive, serves 150 families

Makenzie Lane of Oxford packed Thanksgiving meals for local residents in need during the 27th Annual Alvernia University Turkey Drive event, held recently at the Tom and Helen Flynn PLEX on the university's campus.

“We were very fortunate and blessed to be able to host our 37th Turkey Drive for families in the Reading community,” said Abby Canela, the Alvernia University director of mission and ministry. “The volunteers walked in the footsteps of Saint Francis and Saint Clare, putting others before themselves and working together to bring joy to the families we serve.”

The event came together with the help of over 40 student volunteers, faculty, and staff to provide 150 Thanksgiving meal bags filled with canned goods, pie crusts, mashed potatoes, and other food items to

those in need in the Reading area for the Thanksgiving season. Helping Harvest also donated a turkey for each meal bag. In addition, over $3,500 was raised to help fill these bags with essentials, to be donated to the Kennedy House, a local food bank that has partnered with Alvernia for the Turkey Drive since its inception.

“Volunteering at the Turkey Drive was an amazing experience,” said student activities graduate assistant Asher Smith. “At Alvernia, one of the core values that we are taught is service, and while it is one thing to read about all of the service opportunities that Alvernia presents, it is another thing entirely to experience those opportunities. It was impressive to see various students, staff, and faculty of the Alvernia community come together and serve in an efficient manner for a shared common goal.”

Obituary submissions

The Chester County Press publishes obituaries free of charge for funeral homes with active advertising accounts only. Others with a connection to southern Chester County are charged a modest fee. Obituaries appear on the Wednesday after they are received with a Monday 5 p.m. deadline. They are also posted on www.chestercounty.com. Photos should be sent as .jpeg attachments to the obituary text. To submit an obituary to the Chester County Press or for a rate quote, email the information to editor@chestercounty.com.

The Turkey Drive, founded in 1987, began by just feeding a few local families in need before growing to what it is now.

Polly Mathys, a longtime member of the Alvernia community, former faculty member and founder of the Turkey Drive, even returned this year to help. The expansion over the years has resulted in many student volunteers, who

now consider the Turkey Drive a university tradition that represents the university’s Franciscan core values.

“One of the highlights of the experience was hearing Polly’s mission moment, where she reminded us to pack the canned goods with intention-thinking about the families we were helping, rather than doing it mindlessly,” said

senior finance and economics major Teresa Keithley.

“Helping at the local level feels especially important, as it allows us to make a direct impact on the people around us.”

Alvernia University is a Catholic comprehensive university with a liberal arts foundation founded by the Bernardine Franciscan Sisters in 1958. The university serves over 3,000 students in Reading, Pottsville and Philadelphia with a unique blend of rigorous liberal arts education, strong technical training in many high demand majors, ever-expanding experiential learning opportunities through study abroad and internship experiences and community engagement through its Franciscanbased community service model.

Obituaries

BARBARA ANNE WEAVER

Barbara Anne Weaver, of Northeast, Md. and formerly of Oxford, passed away while at home on November 19, 2024. She was 90. She was the wife of the late Bruce Weaver, with whom she shared 68 years of marriage. She was employed by the U.S. Postal Service in Oxford and retired after more than 30 years of service.

Barbara enjoyed bowling, crossword puzzles, embroidery and crocheting baby blankets for her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

She is survived by one son, Bruce A. Weaver of Oxford, one daughter, Barbara Jean Wilson of Rising Sun, Md., eight grandchildren, and 20 great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her daughter, Cheryl Weaver.

Services will be private.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in her memory may be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital P.O. Box 1000, Dept 142, Memphis, Tenn. 38148-0424. Arrangements are being handled by the Edward L. Collins, Jr. Funeral Home, Inc. in Oxford. Online condolences may be made at www.elcollinsfuneralhome.com.

TERRI KAYE HERR

Terri Kaye Herr, a resident of Kirkwood, Pa., passed away peacefully while at home on November 21, 2024.

She was born on June 3, 1963.

She was the wife of Gene Herr, with whom she shared 43 years of marriage. Born in West Grove, she was the daughter of the late Robert H. and Marie E. Hardy Pugh. Terri loved to vacation at the beach, spend time with family and spoil her grandchildren.

She loved the Lord, and had a lifelong deep faith in Jesus.

She is survived by her husband; four children, Janna Vaughan (Edward), Lauren Foley, Bryan Herr (Melissa) and Michael Herr (Lauren); eight grandchildren, Kayla Vaughan, Branley Vaughan, Harper Vaughan, Ava Foley, Lexi Foley, Max Foley, Rocky Foley and Madison Herr; and two sisters, Kim Lawrie (Doug) and Lisa Butler (Shawn).

A memorial service will be held at 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, December 4 at Cornerstone Presbyterian Church, 109 Gypsy Hill Road and Route 896, Landenberg, where family and friends may visit from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory may be made to American Heart Association to P.O. Box 840692, Dallas, Tex. 75284-0692.

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

Chester County extends county-wide open burn ban

Small amounts of rainfall will not alleviate fire danger across

The Chester County Board of Commissioners approved Resolution BOC-57-24, extending the county-wide open burn ban by 30 days. The extension to the burn ban comes at the recommendation of the Chester County Department of Emergency Services, and the District Forester, on behalf of

Lawful Notice

County Settlement Covenant, Chester County, Full text at: www.Pennsylvaniafreestate. org.

11p-13-3t

ESTATE NOTICE

ESTATE OF Kathryn Faldeti, deceased; late of Penn Township, Pennsylvania, LETTERS TESTAMENTARY on the above Estate have been granted to the undersigned, who requests all persons having claims or demands against the estate of the decedent to make known the same, and all persons indebted to the decedent to make payment without delay to Cameron Faldeti, Executor, c/o Ira D. Binder, 227 Cullen Rd, Oxford, PA 19363

11p-13-3t

ESTATE NOTICE

Estate of Donald Arthur Vassallo aka Donald A Vassallo, Late of Kennett Square, Kennett Township, Chester County, PA, LETTERS TESTAMENTARY on the above Estate have been granted to the undersigned, who request all persons having claims or demands against the estate of the decedent to make known the same and all persons indebted to the decedent to make payment without delay to John G. Vassallo, 5 Beauport Court, Marlton, New Jersey 08053, Executor, Or Attorney: Michael F. Dingerdissen, Esquire, Morris James LLP, P.O. Box 2306, Wilmington, DE 19899-2306

11p-20-3t

ESTATE NOTICE

ESTATE OF MARIA D. FILOROMO (a/k/a Maria J. Filoromo), deceased; late of East Brandywine Township, Pennsylvania, LETTERS TESTAMENTARY on the above Estate have been

the

county the PA Department of Conservation and Natural Resources.

The County Resolution notes that the burn ban be extended for 30 days from November 26 due to the serious threat to life and property the fire potential poses. Specifically, “Emergency measures must continue to reduce the

granted to the undersigned. All persons indebted to the said Estate are requested to make prompt payment and those having claims to present the same, without delay to: Joseph G. Filoromo, Executor. C/O Attorney: Charise D. Chait, Peckman Chait LLP, 29 Mainland Road, Harleysville, PA 19438 11p-27-3t

ESTATE NOTICE

Estate of Shirley Ann Carr, Late of Cochranville Pa, Highland Twp, Chester County, PA LETTERS TESTAMENTARY on the above Estate have been granted to the undersigned, who request all persons having claims or demands against the estate of the decedent to make known the same and all persons indebted to the decedent to make payment without delay to Kelley Boyer, 441 Highspire Rd. Glenmoore Pa 19343, Executor 11p-27-3t

NOTICE FOR CUSTODY

CHANCERY DIVISION – FAMILY PART COUNTY OF PASSAIC, DOCKET NO. EF: EF3029316 IN THE MATTER OF CUSTODY FOR: ELIAS POSADA RONQUILLO, Minor TO: PEDRO ALVAREZ PINA, TAKE NOTICE that a Complaint for Custody has been filed in the Superior Court of New Jersey, Chancery Division – Family Part, by MICAELA POSADA RONQUILLO, regarding the custody of your minor ELIAS POSADA RONQUILLO.

You are hereby summoned to respond to the Complaint within 35 days of this publication by filing an Answer with the Clerk of the Superior Court of New Jersey at Passaic County Court Family Part County Administra-

severity of this danger in order to protect the health, safety, welfare and property of the citizens of Chester County.”

Chester County Department of Emergency Services director Bill Messerschmidt said, “While we have recently had some rain, the small amounts do not move the

needle. Small brush, grass and branches, which are what catch fire most easily, dry out very quickly.

“We need a combination of sustained rain and high moisture content in the air. If the relative humidity does not stay high then small fuels – kindling – will quickly dry up and present high fire potential again.

Legals

tion Bldg., 8th Floor, 401 Grand Street, Paterson New Jersey, and providing a copy to the Petitioner or their attorney at 41 N. Broad Street, 2nd Floor, Ridgewood New Jersey 07450. If you fail to respond within the time allowed, the Court may enter a default judgment against you, granting the relief sought by the Petitioner, including custody of the minor child(ren), without further notice. For further information, you may contact the Clerk of the Court at 973-653-2910.

Dated: November 25, 2024, Carolina T. Curbelo, Esq, 41 N. Broad Street, Ridgewood, New Jersey 07450 201 379-4040 11p-27-1t

ESTATE NOTICE

Estate of Margaret Ann Platt, Late of Penn Township and Chester County, PA, LETTERS TESTAMENTARY on the above Estate have been granted to the undersigned, who request all persons having claims or demands against the estate of the decedent to make known the same and all persons indebted to the decedent to make payment without delay to John Francis Platt, 193 Glendale Road, Oxford, PA. 19363 , Executor.

11p-27-3t

NONPROFIT

NCORPORATION

NOTICE

Thorndale Woods Community Association has been incorporated under the provisions of the Pennsylvania Nonprofit Corporation Law of 1988, as amended. Kaplin Stewart Union Mtg. Corp. Ctr., 910 Harvest Drive, P.O. Box 3037, Blue Bell, PA 19422

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NOTICE

NOTICE IS HERBY GIVEN THAT THE PROPOSED 2025

General and Water Budgets for the Borough of Oxford, Chester County, Pennsylvania are available for inspection at the Borough Building, 1 Octoraro Alley, Oxford, Pennsylvania, during normal business hours.

FURTHERMORE, NOTICE IS HERBY GIVEN that the Council of the Borough of Oxford, Chester County, Pennsylvania, at a public meeting scheduled for December 16, 2024 commencing at 7:00 p.m. to be held at the Borough Building, 1 Octoraro Alley, Oxford, Pennsylvania, will consider and may adopt the 2025 General and Water Budgets for Borough of Oxford. If you are a person with a disability wishing to attend the aforementioned meeting and require auxiliary aid, service or other accommodation to observe or participate in the proceeding, please contact the Borough secretary at 610-9322500 to discuss how your needs may best be accommodated.

OXFORD BOROUGH COUN-

CIL, Stacey L. Fuller, Esquire, Solicitor 11p-27-1t

Classifieds

Notice of

Self Storage Sale

Please take notice Storage First Kennett Square located at 328 W Mulberry St Kennett Square PA 19348 intends to hold a public sale to the highest bidder of the property stored by the following tenants at the storage facility. The sale will occur as an online auction via www.storageauctions.com on 12/10/2024 at 10:00AM. Joseph Lazaro unit #4. This sale may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Certain

We implore all residents and businesses to honor and adhere to this open burn ban, especially when it comes to the seasonal burning of leaves and yard waste.”

The open burn ban includes open burning of any combustible material outdoors in either a burn barrel (screened or unscreened), fire ring, fire pit, or on the ground. This includes the burning of garbage, leaves, grass, twigs, litter, paper and vegetation from land which has been cleared.

terms and conditions apply. 11p-20-2t

Notice of

Self Storage Sale

Please take notice Storage First Downington located at 3925 Hazelwood Ave Downington PA 19335 intends to hold a public sale to the highest bidder of the property stored by the following tenants at the storage facility. The sale will occur as an online auction via www.storageauctions.com on 12/10/2024 at 10:00AM. Lynnee Wilson-Smith units #124 & #191. This sale may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Certain terms and conditions apply. 11p-202t

HELP WANTED

Part time Truck Driver with CDL, needed immediately, to move trucks locally within 30 miles of the Oxford Area. Please, contact Chris at 610517-1422 for more details. 11p-20-4t

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CCIU selected to expand early Head Start services with $6.9 million federal grant

The Chester County Intermediate Unit (CCIU) announced that it has been awarded a significant federal grant to expand its Early Head Start program, extending increased capacity for vital early childhood education services to 296 children across 16 Pennsylvania counties.

The $6.9 million annual grant from the Office of Head Start, which includes an additional $1 million in first-year start-up funding, marks a substantial expansion from CCIU’s previous program that served 152 children in three counties.

“This expansion represents a transformative moment for early childhood education in Pennsylvania,” said Cynthia Schofield, director of education services grants. “By increasing

available slots from 152 to 296 children and expanding from three to potentially 16 counties, we’re creating life-changing opportunities for hundreds of more families. We’re especially excited about our ability to offer flexible programming that meets the diverse needs of families, ensuring that quality early childhood education is accessible to all who need it.”

The expanded program has the potential to serve families in Chester, Adams, Berks, Bucks, Cumberland, Dauphin, Delaware, Franklin, Lancaster, Lebanon, Lehigh, Montgomery, Northampton, Perry, Philadelphia, and York counties. Services will be available in flexible formats, offering both six- and 10-hour daily programs to

accommodate varying family schedules.

Early Head Start provides comprehensive support for infants and toddlers from birth to age three in low-income families. The program delivers early childhood education, health and developmental screenings, nutrition services, social services support, family engagement initiatives, and parenting resources. This comprehensive approach guarantees that both children and their families receive the support they need during these crucial early years of development.

CCIU was selected through a competitive process conducted throughout the spring and summer of 2024. The organization will collaborate with local

AgConnect restructures to drive agriculture in Chester County and the region

Chester County’s focus on the importance of agriculture and agriculture economic development has led to a strategic restructuring and a new partnership.

AgConnect, the Next Generation Industry Partnership originally introduced and managed by the Chester County Economic Development Council (CCEDC), has broadened its scope to not only support agricultural producers across the region, but also to provide valuable resources and educational opportunities to Chester County consumers.

A key part of the transition will see AgConnect leading the implementation of the Chester County Agricultural Economic Development Strategic Plan, aimed at fostering growth and sustainability in the county’s agricultural sector.

In a joint statement, Chester County Commissioners Josh Maxwell, Marian Moskowitz and Eric Roe said, “For several years,

AgConnect has been instrumental in linking farmers and agricultural business owners with essential business resources, training opportunities, and financing options, across the county as well as the southeastern region.

“By coming together with the CCEDC and broadening the scope of AgConnect, we will bring more resources to farmers and agricultural businesses and promote the significance – and value –of farming to our residents and visitors. It only makes sense.”

Since 1989, Chester County government has promoted the economic impact and excellence of the local farming industry through the Chester County Agricultural Development Council (Ag Council). The Ag Council ran several agricultural programs, initiatives and resources, as well as produced the annual Chester County Farm Product Guide and awarded both the Farmer of the Year and the Distinguished Service to Agricultural

awards. In 2022, based on a plan developed and recommended by the Ag Council, the County Commissioners adopted an Agricultural Economic Development Strategic Plan.

Gary Westlake, of Westlake Tree Farms in Pottstown and former chair of the Ag Council, said, “The County has further solidified its commitment to today’s agriculture with the restructure of AgConnect. This public/private partnership is the successor to the Ag Council and was the foremost recommendation of the 2022 Agricultural Economic Development Strategic Plan commissioned by the County. Our rich agricultural heritage, agricultural communities, agricultural producers and agricultural infrastructure are now better suited for greater opportunity and sustainability in the region.”

The AgConnect restructuring will introduce a newly established AgConnect Advisory Executive Committee, designed to steer the initiative and

set strategic priorities.

The 11-person committee includes Chairpersons from each of four action teams, three agriculture industry leaders appointed by the Chester County Commissioners, three agriculture employers appointed by the Chester County Economic Development Council and one staff member from the County Commissioners’ Office.

This diverse and experienced committee will oversee the development and execution of AgConnect’s workplan, ensuring alignment with the county’s strategic objectives.

To address various aspects of agricultural development, four action teams have been formed:

• AgConnect Workforce Development: Focused on regional agricultural workforce development;

• AgConnect Finance: Dedicated to providing farm loan opportunities and financial support;

• AgConnect Chester

County: Tasked with implementing the Agricultural Economic Development Plan for the county;

• AgConnect Promotions: Responsible for promoting the agricultural industry, coordinating the Farm Guide, and organizing the Chester County Farmer of the Year ceremony.

Greg Newell, chair of the AgConnect Advisory Executive Committee, said, “Chester County is the second largest agricultural producing county in the state, and the implementation of the Ag Economic Development Plan will enhance and strengthen that position. Through this new AgConnect, we have the unique opportunity carry out this Plan, and help our ag producers, while also bringing our agricultural products more conveniently to our residents.”

Gary Smith, CEO of the Chester County Economic Development Council, is excited about the opportunities this partnership will bring.

“We believe that the

synergies between the public and the private sectors can be used as a template for other counties across Pennsylvania to support and promote agriculture,” Smith said. “We are excited by this opportunity to have our County Commissioners, along with prominent business leaders, come together, and we are privileged as an organization to provide the staff support for AgConnect, to administer the programs and the strategies that are being developed.”

AgConnect will keep the community updated on the progress of this initiative through its new website and social media platforms, as well as a monthly newsletter. Regular updates will provide insights into the actions being taken to realize the goals of the Agricultural Economic Development Strategic Plan. For more information, please visit go-agconnect.org or follow us on Facebook at https://www. facebook.com/agconnectpa

Courtesy photo

A young learner at the Chester County Intermediate Unit Toddler Center engages with the instructor.

AMERICAN DREAMS

United Way of Southern Chester County announces winners of new AI Skill-A-Thon

The United Way of Southern Chester County announced the winners of the recent 2024 AI Skill-aThon, a free, 30-day skilling competition supported by Microsoft to help local professionals, job seekers, students and employers learn basic knowledge in AI to help them in their chosen career paths.

As part of Microsoft’s AI Skills Initiative, all courses in the Skill-A-Thon were free to complete and available online via smartphone, tablet, desktop, or laptop. While there was an emphasis on AI-skills, participants could also choose from courses that offer entry-level digital skills, soft skills, or essential role-based skills for in-demand careers.

The courses are accessible in both English and Spanish and designed to introduce learners to new skills in an on-demand format. Anyone 16 and older can tap into the learning pathways and courses, including employers or individuals.

“AI can empower workers around the country – but only if everyone, everywhere has the skills to use it,” said J.J. Childress, Microsoft TechSpark manager. “By supporting the United Way of Southern Chester County, Microsoft is helping to equip workers with necessary skills for the AI economy and help people build their careers.”

Terry Vodery, CEO of United Way of Southern

Chester County added, “Learning AI is about equipping ourselves with tools to solve complex challenges, not replacing human thought or creativity.”

The winners for each age category including the following:

Ages 16-24

Jasmine Esparza

Ages

The United Way of Southern Chester County announced the winners of the recent 2024 AI Skill-a-Thon, a free, 30-day skilling competition supported by

them in their chosen career paths. Some of this year’s winners are pictured here.

Maria Duran Karen Strauss

Wickersham Vicotria Mata Lopez

Experience the magic in Kennett Square with a full season of holiday events and programs

KENNETT COLLABORATIVE SHARES DETAILS FOR TOWN’S HOLIDAY DECORATIONS, EVENT SCHEDULE, AND NEW “WINDOW TOUR” PROGRAM

This holiday season, don’t miss the magic in Kennett Square as it is transformed into a wonderland of sparkling lights and show-stopping storefront displays highlighted in the town’s first “Window Tour.”

“Every holiday season in Kennett Square is magical,” said Daniel Embree, executive director of Kennett Collaborative, “But this year is going to stand out with new spectacular decorations. Your visit to Kennett won’t be complete until you’ve seen our magnificent tree and all the enchanted storefronts downtown.”

Kennett Collaborative’s holiday decorations will include a 20-foot tree draped in gold with red, silver, and celadon green accents, new string lights and lanterns in the parking garage walkway, a gorgeous photo backdrop created and sponsored by Zena Florist, streetlamp garlands and banners; and custom gold tinsel garlands stretching over State Street generously donated by Longwood Gardens. Locals may recognize the vintage tinsel garlands from Longwood Gardens’ 2023 Christmas display.

The flower planters uptown will be filled with greens by volunteers from the Four Seasons Garden Club and Spade and Trowel Garden Club.

THE NEW WINDOW TOUR TAKES PLACE THROUGH DEC. 31

Kennett Square’s shops and restaurants are decorating their storefronts to the theme “Experience the magic in Kennett Square” with a friendly competition for the best window

display. More than 30 merchants and local organizations are participating, with exciting installations throughout town. Visitors are encouraged to tour them all and then vote for their favorite. The winner will be announced at Tinsel on the Town on December 19.

“Creating window displays that capture ‘holiday magic’ has put the whole team into the Christmas spirit. We can’t wait to share them with the community,” said Deanna Johnson, owner of Shoppe Marché and co-owner of Lieu. “It’s always inspiring to see the creativity and dedication of all the businesses in town. With so many unique interpretations of the theme, Kennett Square is going to be unforgettable this season.”

FREE GARAGE PARKING: WEEKENDS

BETWEEN NOV. 30 AND DEC. 22

The Borough of Kennett Square will waive parking at the garage on Linden Street on Saturdays and Sundays beginning Nov. 30, which is Small Business Saturday. Kennett Square is home to a number of novel

shops and restaurants, making it a perfect destination for holiday shopping.

HOLIDAY LIGHT

PARADE AND TREE LIGHTING: SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 30

The popular Holiday Light Parade kicks off at 7 p.m. Entertainment will be provided before the parade by Calabrese Arts and the Longwood Dance Company.

The parade route has been significantly expanded, extending along State Street from Broad Street to Mill Road, to accommodate a growing number of spectators year after year. Parking restrictions will begin at 5 p.m. along the parade route and staging areas, with street closures beginning at 6 p.m. Two announcers will narrate the parade, one in English near the intersection of State and Union Streets, and the other in Spanish in front of El Ranchero Mexican Restaurant.

The parade will feature more than 100 trucks, floats, cars, and walking groups decorated with twinkling lights—the biggest holiday parade yet in Kennett Square.

“Every holiday season in Kennett Square is magical.”

~Daniel

Embree,

executive director of Kennett Collaborative

Santa and Mrs. Claus will ride at the end of the parade and will magically light the town tree as they pass by.

For more parade details, visit holidaylightparade. org.

HOLIDAY VILLAGE MARKET:

DEC. 7 AND 8 AND DEC. 14 AND 15

Holiday Village Market at the Creamery of Kennett Square is a curated shopping and dining experience in the heart of the Brandywine Valley. Each day boasts a rotating selection of more than 40 artisan vendors, exclusive beverages & hot drinks, food trucks, and family activities from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. The market is presented by Kennett Collaborative and Square Roots Collective, nonprofit organizations dedicated to helping Kennett Square thrive.

Free parking is provided at the garage on Linden Street and at 600 S. Broad with a complimentary shuttle to the market. The

Creamery parking lot is reserved for accessible parking and drop-off only during the event.

Admission is free. Guests of all ages are welcome. For additional details, visit holidayvillagemarket.org.

TINSEL ON THE TOWN: THURSDAY, DEC. 19

Tinsel on the Town returns to Kennett Square with expanded programming, including extended shopping hours, exclusive discounts and promotions, and outdoor activities for the whole family.

As with Kennett Collaborative’s other Third Thursday events, State Street will be closed between Broad and Center Streets beginning at 5 p.m. to make space for the street fair. Families are invited to ride a holiday train up and down State Street, visit Santa Claus, play bingo, sing carols, and enjoy hot chocolate or mulled wine while finishing their holiday shopping. Parking will be free at

the garage on Linden Street during the event.

HOLIDAY SPONSORS

Kennett Collaborative thanks its many volunteers, donors, and sponsors who make this community programming possible. Our lead holiday sponsors are Longwood Gardens, Chatham Financial, Square Roots Collective, Square Pear Fine Art Gallery, MacElree Harvey, Zena Florist, and Brandywine Senior Living with many other local businesses and organizations contributing to our various programs.

ABOUT KENNETT COLLABORATIVE

Kennett Collaborative is the nonprofit organization that brings Kennett to life through its popular events, programs, and beautification initiatives, promoting Kennett Square as a thriving place for everyone to live, work, and play. For more information, visit kennettcollaborative.org.

Photo by Chris Barber

Enjoy Midnight in the Square and The Mushroom Drop in Kennett Square on New Year’s Eve.

Ring in the New Year with the best New Year’s Eve celebration in the county. The Mushroom Festival and the Kennett Area Merchants Association present Midnight in the Square and the The Mushroom Drop—the best way to ring in a new year in the Mushroom Capital of the World. There are road closures and parking restrictions in place to make room for all the fun in Kennett Square.

Photo by Chris Barber

The holidays are a great time to visit charming Kennett Square.

Courtesy photo

The Kennett Square Holiday Village Market returns on the first two weekends in December, this year on Dec. 7 and 8 and Dec. 14 and 15. Shop dozens of curated artisan and vintage vendors while enjoying live music, food, drinks, and much more.

Photo by Chris Barber

Kennett Square’s popular annual Holiday Light Parade will be held on Nov. 30.

AND SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY SHOPPERS’ GUIDE

Strengthen Your Community

YOU HELP FOSTER A DEEPER SENSE OF COMMUNITY. THIS SIMPLE ACT CONTRIBUTES TO THE

AND WELL-BEING OF YOUR TOWN, AS YOU SUPPORT YOUR NEIGHBORS AND THE LOCAL ECONOMY.

Local vendors and service providers are an integral part of every business ecosystem. You can contribute to them finishing the sales year on a high note. This, in turn, provides jobs and financial support through wages and taxes, of course, but they’re also part of your town’s story. These homegrown shops are part of a larger narrative of growth and innovation. Together, they create a sense of place.

SPREADING THE WORD

Help spread the word by becoming a local storyteller. Sharing your experiences about shopping local can help grow the small businesses you patronize while empowering others to become more conscientious and better informed. Don’t hesitate to tell others about special finds, personalized service and the kind of deep community involvement that helps make your hometown unique.

One study found that these stories are particularly effective in attracting new customers to businesses owned by members of under-represented communities. Everyone is more apt to shop with businesses that have an intriguing vision or shared mission, in particular during the holidays.

HOW YOU CAN HELP

Have you had a unique experience at a store?

Did you connect with an owner or manager who went above and beyond to cater to your needs?

Share it with others. Tell friends, write a letter to local media, post about it on social media, call into a radio show or email the business directly to provide a testimonial in your own words. Don’t forget the old saying about a picture conveying a thousand words: Capture and share festive images from your holiday shopping. These recommendations are more effective if you

AND SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY SHOPPERS’ GUIDE

Shop Local to Help Our Planet

WE ALL PLAY OUR OWN UNIQUE ROLE IN KEEPING THE PLANET HEALTHY. ONE PERHAPS OVERLOOKED WAY IS TO SHOP LOCALLY. CONSIDER KEEPING YOUR HOLIDAY SPENDING DOLLARS AT HOME THIS YEAR.

SMALLER FOOTPRINT

Frequenting local sellers this holiday season gives you the opportunity to enjoy excellent personal service while supporting your community. You’ll be reducing your carbon footprint. This concept refers to the environmental impact our activities cause, typically measured by the amount of greenhouse gas emissions released into the atmosphere.

You may think you’re doing your part by shopping online. But this popular buying activity actually creates many more unwanted outcomes through the shipping process. Research has shown that people tend to make smaller purchases each time when shopping online, leading to more deliveries and more packaging. Items from a single order might also come from different warehouses, causing more

greenhouse gas emissions per item.

WHAT YOU CAN DO

Buying local products benefits the economy, minimizes fuel consumption and reduces the depletion of natural resources. If you drive less, focusing on nearby local offerings, you’re helping save the planet. Those who shop online should purchase from local businesses that deliver directly from their store. You’ll be supporting your own community and reducing the environmental impact of transportation.

Try to buy only food that’s in season, as outof-season produce often needs to be shipped from far away or is grown in greenhouses – and that further contributes to carbon emissions. Track what’s in season and consume locally grown options. You’ll be reducing the carbon footprint associated with

food transportation and supporting sustainable agriculture.

OTHER KEY TIPS

Expand your shopping list and buy more items at the same time to help reduce the number of trips. Instead of driving to the store multiple times for milk, consider buying three gallons once a week. Combine other shopping trips with your grocery store run to minimize fuel consumption. Carpool, if possible, with others who need something from the store.

When shopping, prioritize items that use recycled packaging, as indicated by a recycling symbol. Consider investing in sturdy tote bags made of nylon or cloth when shopping, since this reduces the need for disposable bags. By implementing these small changes, we all can create a more earth-friendly shopping experience.

AND SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY SHOPPERS’ GUIDE

Getting Started

GETTING INFORMATION ABOUT LOCAL BUSINESSES, THEIR OFFERINGS AND THE QUALITY OF THEIR SERVICES CAN BE A BIT OF A CHALLENGE, BUT THE RESULTS ARE WORTH THE EXTRA EFFORT. HERE’S HOW TO GET STARTED.

HEADING OUT

The average local company will provide an opportunity to buy online, in the same way those big-box stores do. But why not take advantage of the opportunity to explore your area this holiday season? Rather than clicking on their website, go see them in person. You’ll enjoy improvements in your own health while bolstering the economic well-being of your community. You’ll also be spreading some good cheer!

Start learning more about small businesses in your community by dedicating a day to looking around, either on foot or by bike. Access online maps through your phone or tablet to locate fun new places for shopping, dining and entertainment. Make notes about favorite stores, while taking time to engage with the staff.

WHAT TO ASK

Online platforms like Yelp and Google can

provide insights into hometown stores by pairing search results with reviews highlighting your neighbors’ opinions. Yelp also features a tab where you can find information about nearby establishments and local deals. While you’re there, ask about the company’s founding and vision, as well as key products and their areas of expertise. Gather information including their operating hours, website details and phone number.

OTHER RESOURCES

Another valuable resource is your local chamber of commerce. You can typically find maps or shopping guides in their offices and chamber personnel can provide key perspectives. For instance, they might connect holiday shoppers with long-standing local companies that bring a wealth of knowledge to their processes and services.

national chains, but you’ll have a list that addresses specific gift-buying

If the chamber isn’t nearby, remember that your phone can be a useful tool for learning about

local businesses. Other sites that may provide basic shopping information include Facebook,

Nextdoor and the Better Business Bureau. Some may not differentiate between local shops and

needs.

AT ANNUAL HOLIDAY MARKETS, FAIRS AND FESTIVALS.

These events provide a one-of-a-kind atmosphere away from brick-andmortar stores. Let’s dive into this unique buying experience.

RICH HISTORY

Holiday markets have a rich history dating back to the Middle Ages in Germany. They’ve long transformed streets and downtown squares into winter wonderlands adorned with lights and decorations. Vendors originally sold holiday items like ornaments, as street vendors offered beverages and seasonal treats. Festive music and carolers added to the merry atmosphere. Germany still hosts thousands of holiday markets each year, but the tradition has become more widespread – and far more varied in its offerings. Markets in America often have many craft items for sale that aren’t holiday themed.

WHY THEY MATTER

These markets and fairs can serve as the financial lifeblood for local makers and growers. Some may not work out of their own storefronts, or even have a website. You’re getting a one-of-a-kind gift in a one-of-a-kind setting. You won’t get that kind of buying experience in the aisles of a cookie-cutter big-box store. Meanwhile, you’re supporting neighbors who are pursuing their dream as a small local business person.

WHERE THEY ARE

PRO TIPS

Bring both cash and credit cards, since some markets may be cash only. The venue may also have limited WiFi access, making credit transactions more difficult. If possible, visit these fairs at quieter times when you can have meaningful interactions with vendors. Ask about their creative inspiration, how long they’ve been creating, and the possibility of custom work. All this information goes into your buying decision, while providing context for the gift itself. Remember these are pop-up retail events, not garage sales. Haggling is not usually part of the process.

Look for flyers or ads for annual events when you’re out and about. Parks and venues may post calendars of events with more information. The FairsandFestivals. net website can help with locating these events, offering detailed lists of upcoming events within a specific distance from your home. Festivals and fairs may post a complete list of vendors and their wares, providing helpful information if you’d like to plan your shopping experience. If they don’t, be ready for a fun exploration!

AND SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY SHOPPERS’ GUIDE

Unique Gift Ideas

THE HOLIDAY SEASON IS ONE OF THE BEST TIMES TO CELEBRATE LOCAL TALENT AND ARTISTRY, SINCE YOU HAVE A BUILT-IN OPPORTUNITY TO SHARE ONE-OF-A-KIND HANDMADE PIECES WITH FRIENDS AND FAMILY.

You’ll be giving back by supporting local businesses and artisans, while contributing to the prosperity of your community.

Why not take advantage of these unique gift ideas rather than settling for another mass-produced item?

THAT SPECIAL GIFT

Local makers, vendors and growers are out there offering a wide selection of unique gifts, services and delicious treats. Make this season that much more special by exploring this wealth of local creativity and talent. Start by looking for neighborhood holiday markets and fairs.

During this time of the year, you’ll often find artisans gathered for these events as city streets are suddenly transformed into lively centers of festive spirit.

Because everything on sale has been made locally, you’re likely to find special gifts that are not available in mainstream stores.

THE PERSONAL TOUCH

Shopping locally allows you to connect directly with creators, building relationships based on stories surrounding their products and personal creative journeys.

Ask whether they handle custom orders, create personalized gifts or accept commissions. Many local businesses specialize in items like engraved jewelry, monogrammed products and custom artwork.

Personal expressions of love and appreciation for friends and family add another layer of meaning to any gift. Remember to respect the artist’s policies for commissions and to order well in advance, since you’re purchasing their time and creativity as well as a gift.

EXCITING NEW CHOICES

Shopping locally can lead to fun and exciting new choices. Handmade items that you might never have considered could include unusual jewelry, hip cloth-

ing designs, exciting artwork or unique decorations that add a special touch to the home. Local artisans and crafters will often be

plugged into the latest new trends well before they’ve reached large retail store shelves — and they always have their own unique

way, you’ll be

going home with items that have a story to tell while adding a one-of-a-kind flair to every gift-giving occasion.

point of view. Some hold on to treasured older traditions long after mainstream stores have moved on. Either

AND SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY SHOPPERS’ GUIDE

The Gift of Experiences

SOME PEOPLE SEEM TO HAVE EVERYTHING. YOU MAY WORRY ABOUT OLDER ITEMS FINDING THEIR WAY INTO LANDFILLS WHEN RECIPIENTS FIND THAT THEY NO LONGER NEED OR HAVE SPACE FOR THEM. IF SO, CONSIDER GIVING THE GIFT OF LOCAL EXPERIENCES THIS HOLIDAY SEASON.

You’ll be creating lasting memories while supporting people in your local community.

HISTORY

What has brought your area the most renown?

The site of a significant historical moment or person? There may also be special events and festivals devoted to the history and culture of your town. Is there a museum or landmark dedicated to something unique? What about home tours or distinctive architecture? Too often, those who live near these interesting tourist attractions have never taken the opportunity to visit them. Consider buying passes as gifts for people on your list. You’ll bolster local museums, historical sites, state parks and events — and everyone might learn

something new.

SPORTS

The holiday season is often marked by huge nationally televised sporting events, including football, basketball and hockey.

Bring special joy to sports enthusiasts by purchasing tickets to their favorite bowl game, playoff contest or match. You can also buy advance tickets for the next season of games at the nearby college, local minor league park or municipal facility.

Don’t forget community events like pickleball contests or a local golf tournament. Create a package that includes game tickets and team merchandise – then get ready to score that autograph from the local sports star!

THE ARTS

The holidays are a great time to purchase individual tickets or season passes for local arts events. Explore options for community and regional theater, touring acts, museum events, dance and opera performances, local symphonies and community bands or choirs. Some arts organizations offer special packages aimed at holiday gift-givers. You could also simply make a donation to a favorite organization as a holiday present. These gifts are often accompanied by special discounts throughout the rest of the year. Create a special package for a night on the town, with two tickets for an arts event and a gift certificate for a restaurant that’s nearby.

Locally Printed Holiday Cards

WHEN IT COMES TO HOLIDAY CARDS, SHOPPING LOCAL ISN’T ONLY GOOD FOR YOUR COMMUNITY, IT CAN PROVIDE YOU WITH UNIQUE, PERSONALIZED COMMUNICATIONS THAT WILL BE TREASURED AND SHARED.

Print shops may not be the first place you think of when you think shop local, and yet, these are businesses that hire creative designers and can provide personalized service. Many of them will even deliver your cards once they are done.

Likewise, local art galleries are also a source for unique cards or art that you can combine with your holiday letters.

DESIGN YOUR OWN

Creative souls may want to design their own holiday cards. With online templates, it can be easy to do. You can pull from a variety of public clip art, your own art or purchase designs from local artists and create a card that is unique to you and your family.

However, printing off 50 of those colorful cards from your home printer can cost a fortune in ink

cartridges. It also leaves you with a lot of folding and collating. It’s why you can turn to local print shops. An advantage to being able to personally deliver a card and talk to someone about what you want is that they might be able to make suggestions to help you achieve the exact look that you want.

Addy Fulmer of TPI Solutions, a print shop in Massachusetts, encourages people to shop local and print local, and they network with other local, small businesses who can also provide specialty cards or stationery.

“If you have an idea for your holiday card, we can make it happen,” she wrote. “We can design it, print it and even mail it if you so desire.” It’s an offer you’re likely to find from any of your local print shops.

PHOTOS

Perhaps you want to

send out a photo postcard.

Consider hiring a local photographer to capture your family in several different fun holiday poses wearing matching outfits or silly hats.

Once you have the photos, you can design your own card or take them in to a print shop and ask them to put them together in a lovely design.

CUSTOMIZED ITEMS

Another bonus to having your holiday cards designed by a local shop is that you can turn to them for other customized goods. Ask them to make you matching gift tags or wrapping paper. Maybe you want notecards that you can use throughout the year or blank thank-you notes to use after the holidays are over.

The sky is the limit when you call upon the talents of your local print businesses.

AND SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY SHOPPERS’ GUIDE

Handmade Gift Ideas

UNIQUE HANDMADE GIFTS HELP DEMONSTRATE HOW MUCH YOU CARE ABOUT YOUR LOVED ONES, WHILE OFFERING A CHANCE TO GIVE SOMETHING WITH A PERSONAL TOUCH.

There can be nearly countless possibilities, however, so you may find it difficult to narrow it down. Here’s a deeper look at a few handmade items that each make the best gift for the right person:

SHOPPING LOCAL

Aside from boasting loads of charm and a very special point of view, handmade gifts often incorporate locally sourced products or materials. In this way, every one-of-a-kind item brings happiness to the recipients while also supporting multiple layers of local makers and growers. What better way to celebrate the holiday season?

CANDLES

Illuminate the season with the cozy glow of homemade candles. Many use beeswax that’s sourced locally. That adds a delightful fragrance and supports local beekeepers. Look for scented candles made with essential oils, or makers who

experiment with different molds and colors. Each hand-poured candle will end up as its own celebration of the local makers’ community.

JOURNALS

Preserve cherished memories, family traditions, creative writing or timeless recipes by seeking out journals with creatively crafted covers. The best employ designs that reflect the artist’s unique point of view; others might be inspired by your local area. You’ll often find these special books at local markets and hometown bookshops. There’s almost no end to the number of ways the cover of a journal can be adorned. Once it’s been gifted, the book becomes even more precious as it’s filled. Pair the new journal with other small locally purchased items to add even more regional flavor to the gift.

BATH AND BODY Local makers continue to create a remarkable

array of luxurious handcrafted bath and body products. Head to local boutiques, farmer’s markets and specialty stores to

ence in any home. Be on the lookout for items with a local flair, such as those that have been infused with regionally grown

herbs. You’ll be honoring the area’s contributions to agriculture while tapping into the calming powers of nature.

find invigorating scrubs, soothing bath salts, healing balms and aromatic lotions. They can create a blissful spa-like experi-

Small Businesses Support Charity

SHOPPING WITH OWNERS WHO SUPPORT CHARITABLE CAUSES CAN INTRODUCE GREAT BENEFITS FOR YOUR LOCAL AREA. SMALL BUSINESS OWNERS ARE KNOWN FOR CONTRIBUTING A PORTION OF THEIR PROFITS BACK INTO THE COMMUNITY THEY ARE A PART OF.

When visiting their establishments, be sure to thank the owners and employees for the work they do and the support they provide. Check out some of these impressive statistics regarding small-business charitable giving from the SCORE Association.

• 75 percent of owners donate at least six percent of their profits to charitable causes;

• Small businesses donate 250 percent more to charities than national chains.

• 81 percent of owners plan to give back to their communities in 2019.

SUPPORTING

YOUTH SPORTS

One activity that local businesses frequently donate to is youth sports. With the rising costs of sports, their support is necessary to ensure that children can partake in a learning experience with their peers. In addition to donating uniforms which feature their businesses’

information, many provide financial assistance to cover equipment, registration fees and mentorship to the team they are a part of.

Their sponsorship is a great way to strengthen the bond between their business and the community. Investing your holiday dollars within your local market ensures that local youth sports will continue to thrive in your area.

EVENT SPONSORSHIP

In your community, you have likely witnessed events like marathons, live music and neighborhood festivals. What you may forget to consider is that these activities wouldn’t be possible without the sponsorship of your local businesses.

While you’re shopping your favorite shop, ask if there is a way you can help these entertaining events continue to thrive.

Whether you contribute with a monetary donation or by volunteering your

time, your support can ensure your local economy benefits from sponsored events.

COMMUNITY CHARITIES Small business owners are proficient at supporting their communities and helping improve neighborhoods. From sponsoring renovations for city parks

giving to families in need, spending your dollars locally helps continue their charitable efforts.