Chester County Press 12-15-2021 Edition

Chester CountyPRESS

www.chestercounty.com

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

Volume 155, No. 50

INSIDE

Wednesday, December 15, 2021

$1.00

Two Chester County hospitals now set to close as deal to sell them falls apart Elected officials are still determined to find a way to keep the hospitals open

Last Minute Shoppers’ Guide

By Chris Barber Contributing Writer Six months ago, there were rumors circulating among local first responders that something was up with Jennersville Hospital regarding a possible approaching sale of the facility in Penn Township.

On Sep. 27, those rumors became a reality when Jennersville Hospital’s owner, Tower Health, announced its plans to close the facility on Dec. 31.

Shocked and saddened

Winterthur’s Tour...1B

Yuletide

about the prospect of southern Chester County losing its only emergency room, local officials came together with hopes of finding and engaging a buyer. They hoped their efforts would yield a smooth a transition with as little disruption as possible.

County Commissioners Josh Maxwell, Marian Moskowitz, and Michelle Kichline, State Rep. John Lawrence, State Sen. Carolyn Comitta, and the Penn Township supervisors, among others, worked on

Courtesy photo

Jennersville Hospital

Continued on page 4A

Township has recovered 85 percent of the $3.2 million that former manager stole

Kennett Township unwraps Lisa Moore embezzlement

By Richard L. Gaw Staff Writer Chester County Chamber of Business & Industry hosts annual awards celebration...5B

INDEX Opinion.......................5A Obituaries........2B,3B,5B

To Subscribe Call 610.869.5553

Classifieds..................4B

© 2007 The Chester County Press

The State Correctional Institute at Muncy, formerly known as the Industrial School for Women, is located 18 miles east of from Williamsport, Pa. in Lycoming County, and serves as the diagnostic and classification center for all women entering the state’s prison system.

Of the medium-maximum security facility’s 793 acres, 30 are enclosed within a security fence at the institution’s perimeter, where inmates live in 15 permanent and modular inmate housing units, in both dormitory-style arrangements and in private cells.

At Muncy, the visiting room is closed to outside guests on Tuesdays from Labor Day until May 31, so on the night of Dec. 7, it is not known how Inmate No. PE4676 of the Pennsylvania Prison System spent her evening.

At the same time however, 189 miles to the south at the Kennett Township Building on Burrows Run Road in Chadds Ford, more than one dozen residents who gathered in the meeting room and over 50 more who watched on Zoom listened to a two-hour dis-

Oxford’s new Borough Manager brings plenty of experience to the job

By Betsy Brewer Brantner Contributing Writer

Photo by Richard L. Gaw

Kennett Township supervisor Scudder Stevens and attorney Joseph Poluka of BlankRome, LLP.

cussion about how Inmate No. PE4676 – former Kennett Township Manager Lisa Moore – managed to embezzle $3,249,452 from the township over at least an eight-year period dating back to 2013.

Over the course of six presentations – three of which were given by supervisors Whitney Hoffman, Scudder Stevens and board chairman Richard Leff largely in the form of pre-written remarks – the public meeting unraveled the impact of Moore’s scheme on the township, which led to a months-long investigation in 2019 and eventually her sentencing on Oct. 4 to incarceration for a minimum of three years and a maximum of 10 years, for first-degree felony Theft by Deception and additional crimes.

‘It was one big, tangled mess’ The meeting’s purpose was clearly defined at its beginning by Leff, who provided a summary of the two-year investigation into Moore’s theft.

“Tonight, we are going to explain how the crimes of Lisa Moore plunged Kennett Township into a crisis,” Leff said, “involving the theft of more than $3 million and how that township today has recovered from those depths of that financial emergency and now is governed by many of the best of today’s financial safeguards.”

Leff then gave details about how the investigation began in late April 2019, when he received a Continued on page 2A

Oxford Borough Council member Mary Higgins could barely contain her enthusiasm when she announced the appointment of Pauline D. Garcia-Allen as the new Borough Manager on Oct. 4. Before she even got to the table, Higgins said, “I’m so glad we took our time with this. We were patient and got exactly the right person.”

Onlookers might have wondered what was taking so long to fill the position of Oxford Borough Manager, but the committee tasked with the duty knew it would take a special person.

It is hard to imagine who could have fit the position better than Pauline Garcia-Allen— everything on her resume indicated she could hit the ground running in the new role.

Higgins, the chair of the Search Committee stated, “It was important for the Borough to identify and hire the best-qualified candidate, one who can effectively communicate

with the many internal and external stakeholder groups within the Oxford Region. Pauline is that person.”

Garcia-Allen is a seasoned professional with a bachelor of science degree in journalism and media studies and an extensive background in community and economic development, coalition building, program management, grant funding, and communications.

Council president Peggy Ann Russell also said, “Pauline brings 20 years of professional experience, a diverse background, and existing relationships with various Oxford area stakeholder groups, all of which will serve the Borough well.”

Garcia-Allen said that her goal is “to provide a safe and desirable community for our diverse population by operating with honesty and transparency in devising and executing policies which are in the best interest of the residents and businesses.”

She also wants to encourage resident and taxpayer participation in Continued on page 3A

Kennett Square woman charged with failing to report child abuse Alleged crime occurred when she was working as the director of Westtown Malvern School The Chester County District Attorney’s Office and Westtown-East Goshen Regional Police announced the arrest of Tiffany Nichols, 39, of Kennett Square, for failing to report multiple incidents of child abuse perpetrated by another employee at The Malvern School in Westtown, where she was the executive director.

The announcement was made on Dec. 7 when the defendant was charged with endangering the welfare of children and failure

to report child abuse, both felonies. She was released on $35,000 bail.

According to the Chester County District Attorney’s Office, Victoria Aronson, a teacher at The Malvern School, was arrested in October and charged with several counts of aggravated assault, endangering the welfare of children, and related offenses for physically abusing children who were approximately oneand-a-half years old.

Eyewitnesses allegedly told Nichols about

the abuse, but she failed to immediately contact Childline, law enforcement, and the parents of the alleged victims. As a result of her failure to report or remove Aronson from her access to children, the abuse continued, and law enforcement was unable to engage in a timely investigation.

District Attorney Deb Ryan said, “As the executive director and a mandated reporter, it was the legal and moral duty of Tiffany Nichols to ensure the safety and care of all children

at The Malvern School. It is unconscionable that the defendant failed to protect these innocent, nonverbal, and defenseless young children. By not immediately notifying Childline, authorities, and the parents about her employee’s actions, she allowed abuse to continue. This astonishing criminal behavior will never be tolerated.”

The allegations in the complaint are the following: On Oct. 7, 2021, Westtown-East Goshen Regional Police became

aware of several child abuse complaints that took place at The Malvern School on E. Pleasant Grove Road in West Chester. The complaints, observed by eyewitnesses, occurred between Sept. 29 and 30, and involved three victims between 14 and 16 months.

Aronson, who worked as a caretaker in a class for ages 12-18 months, was arrested on Oct. 25, and charged with multiple counts of aggravated assault, endangering the welfare of Continued on page 4A

2A

CHESTER COUNTY PRESS

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 15, 2021

Chester County Press

Local News Moore...

Continued from Page 1A

call from a fraud analyst at Capitol One Bank, who was inquiring about township checks that had been deposited to a customer’s account that was later determined to be Moore’s account.

Leff said that several days later, the township showed the Chester County Detectives a stack of canceled township checks made payable to Moore that totaled three quarters of a million dollars, using the signature of Stevens that had been affixed by a rubber stamp – which was later found in Moore’s work desk at the Township Building.

Stevens said that when he was alerted to the suspicious signatures by authorities, he saw that each of his signatures was identical to the other.

“Then I signed my name five times, and every one of those signatures was discernibly different, so it was very clear that I didn’t recognize [the checks] and I didn’t sign and of them, and it was on that same occasion that they went into Lisa Moore’s office and found in her desk not one but two rubber stamps with my signature.”

“It was an awful day, and it began a long journey filled with one bit of discovery after another, that has lasted nearly three years so far,” Leff said. “One of our own, the once trusted and respected manager of our township had betrayed us, right under our noses and the noses of every one of our financial experts, service providers, staff and state watchdogs.”

Leff said that the investigation led to an across-the-board distrust in the township’s entire financial system – every document, payment, bill and every account balance.

He said every entry would need to be examined, verified and repaired.

“The whole structure Lisa Moore created was cor-

rupt,” Leff said. “It was one big, tangled mess.”

During the summer of 2019 – while the investigation by the Chester County District Attorney’s Office was kept under wraps -the rumor mill concerning the investigation reached its highest volume, and implications went as far as to point the finger of accusation at the township’s supervisors. It was just the beginning, Leff said.

“It hurt, but we were committed to staying the course, because we knew that the truth would eventually come out,” he said.

“As is the case for most public officials, we were not prepared to deal with embezzlement and fraud – crimes with so many difficult-to-deal-with consequences. Nothing about our training had prepared us for a crisis of this magnitude, including suddenly not knowing if we could trust the people we worked with.”

Leff said that as the investigation continued, the township hired an accountant; created a new accounting system; engaged the support of a non-profit organization that helps municipal governments; hired a temporary township manager and eventually Eden Ratliff as its full-time manager; and hired a team of forensic accountants led

by Ricardo “Ric” Zayas of Marcum, LLP. ‘Inside the Forensic Investigation’ From his first meeting with the township supervisors, Zayas said that he had three objectives: to follow the evidence of the investigation that he and his staff had been given; to fully cooperate with authorities investigating the then-alleged theft; and to do a thorough investigation.

“That was our charge, and that’s what we did,” said Zayas, who told the audience that the investigation traced Moore’s suspicious transactions back to 2013.

%GNGDTCVKPI [GCTU

2TQRCPG )CU 5GTXKEG #0;9*'4' *GCVKPI *QV 9CVGT )CU .QIU )GPGTCVQTU CPF OQTG

(TGG 'UVKOCVGU ^ #NN (WGNU

Photo by Richard L. Gaw

Kennett Township held a special public meeting on Dec. 7 to discuss the implications, restitution and financial upgrades stemming from former manager Lisa Moore’s embezzlement of $3.2 million of township funds, that ended with her conviction and sentencing to a minimum of three years in prison in October.

“We started off with the evidence that was available, which was that three-quarters of a million dollars [had disappeared from the township’s records]. The accounting records of the township were not accurate. [There were] omitted entries and false entries. It either wasn’t recorded or recorded incorrectly.”

Nicole Donecker, a senior manager at Marcum, LLP with over 20 years’ experience in forensic accounting, said that despite several inaccuracies found in the township’s QuickBooks system, it still allowed the firm to detect where Moore manipulated money and concealed her thefts.

Marcum also consulted the township’s payroll schedule to determine when the township’s invoices were normally paid to vendors, and worked with third-party references to help verify those transactions that were not used for the benefit of the township.

Marcum LLP’s investigation also looked into Moore’s use of the township’s credit card that was traced to her personal purchase of several items such as designer clothes and leisure trips.

As a result of its collaboration with the township’s banking centers, as well as the Chester County Detectives in May 2019, Marcum, LLP was able to achieve what Zayas called an “expedited result” that ended with a criminal complaint filed against Moore in December of that year.

Rather than become absorbed in the emotional aspects of the investigation – such as being the recipient of a violation of trust in a colleague – Zayas said that Marcum, LLP conducted the work with “a lack of emotion, with objec-

tivity and with extensive experience.”

“Another piece of the experience we brought to the table was in understanding the type of evidence that is necessary to bring a matter like this to court,” Zayas added. “We weren’t dealing with a civil investigation with the proof threshold of preponderance. We were building a case, amassing the necessary evidence to put together a case that meets the criminal burden of proof beyond a reasonable doubt.”

‘Financial management in Kennett Township looks nothing like it did twoand-a-half years ago’ In his presentation “Rebuilding our township government,” Ratliff walked those in attendance through the township’s overhaul of its accounting systems, which he said will significantly reduce the likelihood that fraud would ever be committed in the township again, as well as substantially provide better internal and external oversight.

Ratliff said the township has introduced a new accounting ledger that is fit for a small, local government that is streamlined, automated, Cloud-based and made easier for township residents who need to pay a township bill.

Ratliff also said that the township has also moved to a Governmental Accounting Standards Board (GASB) accounting system that establishes accounting and financial reporting standards for U.S. state and local governments that follow generally accepted accounting principles.

“Financial management in Kennett Township looks nothing like it did two-anda-half years ago, and it is something that we can have pride and confidence in,” he said.

“We want to make sure that the Board of Supervisors and the community have all of the information that they need and that they want.

There is no hidden information and access remains open to anyone who needs it.

“To rebuild trust and confidence in the township government, we wanted the community to be involved and knowledgeable. In addition to financial management, the Board of Supervisors challenged us to rethink all of the areas of township government and restructure as needed.

“We’ve done and continue to do our best to do that.”

Restitution and Recovery Referring to Moore’s crimes as an “enormous tragedy” and a “mess,”

Stevens introduced what is on the township’s plate to recover the more than $3.2 million that Moore stole from the township. So far, the township’s recovery effort has two main parts: restitution from any assets that Moore has that will come back to the township via the court system and the District Attorney’s Office, and tapping other possible sources, including insurance from service providers and from others the township hopes to settle with.

At its last tabulation, the township has recovered $2.7 million – or about 85 percent of the total that Moore stole. The township’s restitution effort got a large boost on Oct. 4, when before her sentencing, Moore provided a certified bank check in the amount of $1.27 million to the District Attorney’s Office. In addition, the township acquired the proceeds from the sale of her Kennett Township home which was recently sold for $355,000, as well as $82,000 that was seized from one of her personal accounts.

In addition, the township’s recovery included a $1 million bond the township carried on Moore.

“Another $440,000 was saved from Lisa Moore’s pension and is being used to support other township pension obligations,” Stevens said. “This is possible because of a state law that prohibits anyone from profiting from a fraud committed while working for a municipal or state agency.”

Stevens said that since the investigation into Moore’s embezzlement began, the township has spent a little more than $1 million in an effort to recover the stolen money, which has largely been used to pay for legal and accounting fees.

When Joseph Poluka, an attorney with the firm of BlankRome, LLP, was first retained by the township in September 2019 to recover the money that Moore had stolen, he met with the township’s supervisors.

“I told them, ‘You may recover nothing,’ because in a vast majority of these cases, there is no money,” Poluka said. “It is the proverbial ‘wine, women and song.’ It’s gone. There was no guarantee that a nickel would be recovered.”

During BlankRome’s investigation, the township gave the firm full access to all township documents and employees, which resulted in confidential interviews, which confirmed that Moore was the only individual who perpetrated the crime.

Poluka then referred to the news that the township has recovered 85 percent of what it lost through Moore’s embezzlement.

“This is a happy result, and I think it’s going to get happier if we dig in a little more, but I think the township residents need to know that this is an unusual recovery,” he said.

Poluka said that the efforts to reclaim the balance of the stolen money include an order of restitution and the filing of a civil suit, which is currently on hold.

‘In a Greek sense, this is a tragic, tragic story’ During an hour-long question-and-answer period, a portion was spent analyzing the mindset of those who commit government-related fraud and embezzlement similar to Moore, as well as further examining what possible motivations Moore had for stealing from the township.

“The crucial element that invariably exists in these situations is the ability to get people to trust you,” Zayas said. “Ms. Moore was a trusted person in this township, not only with the supervisors, but with the citizens. She was by all accounts respected.

“That had always been a critical factor in any of these [cases]. They break that trust and a lot of people are devastated.”

“I have tried to figure this out from the beginning,” Hoffman said. “Was this about being a big deal in the community? Was this about somebody who had a hardscrabble background and raised herself up to be admired? That was the exact reason why none of this made sense to me, because I couldn’t understand why someone who had worked so hard to become a pillar of the community would put it all at risk. That’s a gamble to me that just doesn’t make sense.”

“I feel very bad for [Moore],” Stevens reflected. “I feel very bad for us, and when I say us, I am talking not just about the supervisors but the township and the larger area.

“In a Greek sense, this is a tragic, tragic story. I can’t guess what drove her to do this.”

Leff recalled when Judge Bortner gave Moore an opportunity at her Oct. 4 sentencing to make a statement before him, the board and those in the courtroom.

“She had a chance to answer the judge directly, yet she only spoke through her lawyer,” he said.

“Personally, I didn’t see any remorse except maybe that she got caught. I can’t speculate on [her] reasons [for committing such a crime] except for greed and selfishness.”

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

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 15, 2021

CHESTER COUNTY PRESS

3A

Chester County Press

Local News Oxford...

Continued from Page 1A

the local government.

Garcia-Allen began the new job by saying, “I am excited to begin my tenure with the Borough. The Borough has a wonderful team in place which includes dedicated volunteers, elected officials, and staff, all of whom are committed to serving the residents and businesses in our community. I am honored to be a part of that team and look forward to contributing to the future successes of the organization, our community, and the region.”

Borough Council thanked the members of the search committee, which included Spence Andress (the citizen representative on the committee), council member Ron Hershey, Higgins, and Russell.

The new borough manager, a busy wife and mother of two, is no stranger to the community. Before accepting this new position, she was employed by ECON as a grant writer and brought in over $6 million in grants for streetscape improvements, public works projects and most notably the installation of the Transportation Center (parking garage).

ECON is a women-owned, economic and community development consulting firm.

Garcia-Allen also worked for The Fund for Women and Girls, a grantmaking and education nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the lives of women, girls and their families. Over the past 25 years, they have awarded

over $3.5 million in grants to 80 agencies throughout Chester County that serve women and girls.

She also worked with the Anti-Defamation League in Philadelphia, where she did fundraising, and was also director for the No Place for Hate Program.

“If I had to sum up my experience, I would say it is in community and economic development, securing funding, and building coalitions,” she said.

She also managed construction projects such as the build out of a new office suite.

She admitted she wasn’t looking for the job, but she was excited to be more involved and engaged in Oxford.

“I knew the position was open, but wasn’t looking to leave my position,” she said. “I recently did a site visit with Senator Comita’s office. It’s something we do often with clients. It was nice to be with council and OMI. After that, Cary Vargo, interim Borough Manager and Peggy Ann Russell, the council president, approached me about the job. I thought I might be interested. I consider Oxford my home, my town.”

Garcia-Allen lives just outside of the Borough.

“I’ve always been best at things when I’m passionate about them. I work for many clients, but I do love the Borough,” she said. “While on our site visit, I thought more about all the opportunities of Oxford. I wondered if I was the right person to do this, and the more I thought about it, the more right and comfortable it felt.

I felt good about the path I would take to learn more about Oxford. I considered my love for the town. I think Oxford has so many great things going for it and so many opportunities and I really want to be a part of that.”

She enjoyed her job of securing grants, but explained, “It’s about working on a grant and putting it together, but the fun part is afterwards trying to get support from elected officials at the county and state level, and making the case not only why it is needed but that it is a good investment as well. Oxford is an easy sell.”

Garcia-Allen is excited to be a woman working in this position.

“I think any position or any organization benefits from any diverse perspective. Women and women’s life experiences bring a different take to the job,” she said. “It wasn’t easy to leave ECON. I love working with Coleen Terry, the president of ECON. It was a great experience. I worked with incredible people on incredible projects. It’s bittersweet to know I won’t see the completion of some of those projects. I have had exceptional women leaders and managers.”

Going forward the new Borough Manager will be looking for common ground and encouraging people to work together.

“We have far more in common than not. But we have to listen to each other, and have good and honest conversations,” Garcia-Allen said. “That won’t be difficult in Oxford. Everyone

I have worked with in the Borough loves and cares about Oxford. Not everyone agrees with the best path forward, but everyone comes from a position of wanting Oxford to thrive.”

Garcia-Allen is focused on finishing projects, long-term planning, infrastructure, drinking water, walkability and access and economic vitality.

“Now that we have the parking garage, we have to figure out how to support the downtown,” she said.

“Oxford has a unique sense of place, rich in history and charm. It is also welcoming to economic diversity for businesses and people searching for homes. It is all about planning and being a responsible steward of residents’ tax dollars. It takes organization and we have to work with people at the county and state levels.

“Through the work we did to secure funding for the parking garage, we had an opportunity to tell those outside the Borough the great story of Oxford. We want to capitalize on that interest in state and county to bring resources to Oxford.”

Garcia-Allen believes Oxford is unique because of its diversity.

“It’s the mix of people and it is becoming more so,” she said. “You have people strongly invested in Oxford that have lived here most of their lives and then you have new people coming in.

Diversity is important. When you bring indifferent perspectives together, it makes the rope stronger. Different people bring different ideas and that strengthens the community.”

Photo by Betsy Brewer Brantner

The view from the top of the Transportation Center (Parking Garage) in Oxford is the perfect backdrop for new Oxford Borough Manager Pauline Garcia-Allen.

Garcia-Allen does feel that the biggest challenge Oxford is facing is managing growth and ensuring that they make investments in the right decisions.

“We want to invest in things that support and improve the daily lives of all people and ensure that we have the resources to do so,” she said.

Like many communities, Oxford is growing and coming out of a pandemic. Garcia-Allen feels strongly that solving collective problems is the role of the municipal government.

She also strongly believes it is important to protect the things that make Oxford

unique. She has walked every street and alley in Oxford. She is well-versed in infrastructure, business, economics and all things Oxford, having successfully worked as the grant writer for years.

Her time spent working for the community, and asking the question, “What does Oxford need?” has probably made her more knowledgeable than even she is aware.

And walking the walk and talking the talk has brought her into a new position she already loves.

As Higgins said, “I am so glad we took our time with this. We got exactly the right person.”

4A

CHESTER COUNTY PRESS

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 15, 2021

Chester County Press

Local News Hospitals...

Continued from Page 1A

viable options to keep the hospital open.

On Nov. 22, a glimmer of hope emerged when it was announced that Canyon Atlantic Partners from Texas agreed to buy Jennersville Hospital as well as Brandywine Hospital in Caln. Canyon Atlantic Partners is a for-profit business that buys and rehabilitates distressed hospitals.

With that announcement, Canyon began seeking information about its future clienteles and stated its hope to run the transition as smoothly as possible, according to Medic 94 CEO Bob Hotchkiss, who was

Child abuse...

Continued from Page 1A

children, and related offenses. Aronson allegedly used unreasonable force on the three victims by slamming them onto changing tables or onto the ground, screaming at them, and other criminal behavior.

Investigators learned that eyewitnesses had reported their concerns, as well as the abuse they had observed, to Nichols on three occasions.

On Sept. 28, an eyewitness expressed concern about Aronson’s lack of attentiveness to the children under her care.

Nichols failed to investigate these concerns, authorities said.

On Sept. 29, an eyewitness reported that Aronson had used unreasonable force on two children earlier that day.

Nichols failed to contact Childline to make

in conversations with them. Medic 94 is southern Chester County’s advanced emergency paramedical unit housed at Jennersville Hospital.

The hopes for the sale of the hospital and a smooth transition were dashed on Dec. 8 when it was announced that the deal had fallen through.

Attached to that disappointment was the news that Tower Health planned to close Brandywine Hospital on Jan. 31, 2022 as well Jennersville Hospital at the end of this year.

Lawrence, who was and is heavily involved in seeking a solution to the approaching crisis, said he believes the reason for the failure

an official report of child abuse. She also failed to notify the parents and continued to give Aronson access to children in the school.

Then, on Sept. 30, an eyewitness sent an email to Nichols describing Aronson’s physical abuse of three children on Sept.

28 and 29. Nichols met with the eyewitness shortly after receiving the email but failed to make an official report to Childline or notify the parents. She also failed to remove Aronson from the classroom until late in the afternoon, and still gave Aronson limited access to children the morning of Oct. 1.

Nichols discussed Aronson’s abuse with an eyewitness on Oct. 1 but failed to contact Childline until 9:34 p.m. and did not give an accurate report of the abuse. Because of this failure, Childline did not send the report to the proper authorities, resulting in

was that Tower Health had not vetted Canyon Atlantic properly and later found that it did not have the funding or credentials to engage in the purchase of hospitals in Pennsylvania.

The potential closing of two hospitals in the county would leave a large gap, especially for nearby emergency room treatment where many patients would need to travel significantly farther to hospitals in West Chester, Paoli, Reading, or Elkton, Md. or Newark, Del. For some patients, the extra travel time could literally mean the difference between life and death.

After the sale fell through, local legislators expressed their anger through public

statements and vowed to fight on. Their reactions were swift and emotional.

Lawrence called the announcement shocking and a “complete betrayal of what trust was left between Tower Health and the community.”

“Tower’s abrupt decision to close Jennersville Hospital 10 weeks ago was made with complete disregard to the tens of thousands of local residents who rely upon the hospital, as well as their own employees who served faithfully in one of the most challenging times in recent history,” he said.

Lawrence said he and his colleagues had been assured that Tower Health had agreed to keep the hospital open, and he and the com-

Courtesy photo

Tiffany Nichols

a further six-day delay in the investigation. The delay also prevented parents from seeking medical evaluations for their children.

Chester County Detectives and the Westtown-East

Classifieds

Goshen Regional Police are investigating the case.

Zachary Yurick is the assigned prosecutor.

Call Childline if you suspect child abuse at 1-800-932-0313.

munity took them at their word.

“It was a hollow promise, and Tower had failed to vet the proposed buyers, leaving the community and the hospital employees with nothing more than uncertainty and a severance check,” he continued.

Lawrence said he could not recall the last time he was this angry but would continue to work with local responders and elected officials to find a solution that meets the needs of the community.

Likewise, Comitta said in a public statement that she was “disappointed, frustrated and angry” by the news of the planned hospital closing. She added that it was more bad news that Tower announced the planned closing of Brandywine Hospital as well on Jan. 31, 2022.

“When it was announced that Jennersville would close, our legislative delegation, local municipalities, and county commissioners worked and acted sincerely and in good faith to do everything in our power to save it,” Comitta said.

“When it was announced days before Thanksgiving, that Tower had found a new buyer for both Jennersville and Brandywine, we took them at their word. When we raised questions about Canyon Atlantic, a largely unknown entity, we were met first with reassurances and later with silence.”

She said learning of the failure of the sale “feels like a betrayal.”

Like Lawrence, Committa said that she will continue to work at the local, county and state levels to address the heightened urgency of

the situation. She also asked Tower to continue to keep the hospitals open until a solution can be found.

In an interview over the weekend, Lawrence commented further on the lack of vetting of Canyon Atlantic Partners by Tower Health.

He said he is not certain what the standards are for hospital operations in Texas, but that in Pennsylvania they are very high. “Whoever buys it must meet standards of the Attorney General and Orphans Court. … Maybe the standards are lower in Texas,” he said.

Lawrence speculated that the COVID-19 pandemic could have had a role in challenging Tower Health’s lowered profits, prompting the sale.

He said because there was anticipation of a glut of COVID-19 patients arriving at Jennersville Hospital, many people put off elective surgeries, which are moneymakers for the hospital.

Lawrence reiterated that even with the holidays coming up, he would continue to work on a solution for keeping the hospital open.

“We are not going to take our foot off the gas,” Lawrence said.

He added that, if anything, the need for hospital service will increase in Chester County – the wealthiest county in Pennsylvania and one of the wealthiest in the nation. “I think it’s an opportunity,” he said.

Lawrence’s hopes are still high, despite the setback.

“Other companies will look at this area,” he said. “There are other outfits and other ideas, and we are committed to that.”

The CCIU’s Career, Technical & Customized Education Division receives $550K CCRES grant To ensure quality education and human services and to assist educational projects and related services in providing outstanding services to the community, CCRES announced the approval of grant funding for schools, government agencies and non-profit organizations for the 2021-22 year.

As one of the 2021-22 CCRES grant recipients, the Chester County Intermediate Unit (CCIU) recently received $550,000 to be used for its Practical Nursing Program (PNP) and three Technical College High Schools (TCHS) within its Career, Technical & Customized Education (CTCE) division. The funds granted to CTCE will help fulfill its work to support new programs and opportunities that CTCE has been developing to help enhance the lives of both student and adult learners.

“With the support of these grants, students will have the opportunity to gain experiences that will impact their future career pathways and ultimately the ability to enter postsecondary options, as well as the ever-changing workforce with outstanding foundational knowledge and skills,” said Dr. Kirk Williard, director of CTCE. Beth Ann Puckett, director of PNP, explained how some of the grant money will be used to help rebuild enrollment within the PNP program, which was negatively impacted due to COVID-19.

“The grant from CCRES will help to fund and provide scholarships to qualified practical nursing program applicants who can use the money towards their tuition. It will give students who may have financial challenges the opportunity to pursue a nursing education and achieve their career goals and dreams,” said Puckett.

The CCRES grant will also be utilized for recruitment for existing TCHS programs and to partner with school districts to enroll ninth grade students into TCHS, as TCHS currently does not have ninth grade students enrolled in its programs.

“We are appreciative of CCRES for its generosity in helping us provide opportunities for students to learn and grow. The addition of a ninth-grade exploratory program will allow students to learn more about their passions and careers, which will allow them to make a more informed decision about their future goals and pathways,” added Joe Fullerton, assistant director of CTCE. To learn more about CCRES or its Grant Funding program, visit: www.ccres.org.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 15, 2021

CHESTER COUNTY PRESS

5A

Chester County Press

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

Editorial

Remember, Honor, Teach

Opinion Oxford Lions Club members ring the bell in honor of Mayor Gray

Wreaths Across America Day is this Saturday This Saturday is National Wreaths Across America Day. Ceremonies will be taking place at more than 3,100 participating locations across the country as thousands of volunteers are expected to lay the wreaths at the graves of American veterans in cemeteries from coast to coast.

Additionally, a convoy of volunteers will also travel from Maine to Arlington National Cemetery to lay Maine-made balsam wreaths at the headstones of American veterans interred there. The convoy will arrive at Arlington National Cemetery on Dec. 18.

Wreaths Across America began 30 years ago as a pilgrimage by one wreath maker from Maine.

Morrill Worcester used a single truck to deliver 5,000 wreaths to Arlington as a gesture of thanks to veterans.

Through the years, the laying of wreaths at the headstones of veterans has evolved into a national mission to “Remember, Honor, Teach.”

The U.S. Senate unanimously passed a resolution introduced by Senators Susan Collins and Angus King, both from Maine, designating Saturday, December 18 as “Wreaths Across America Day.” “Wreaths Across America is a powerful demonstration of respect and appreciation for our veterans – both those that we’ve lost and those still with us,” said Senators Collins and King in a joint statement.

“We are so proud that this heartfelt expression of gratitude originated in our great state and has become an enduring symbol of our nation’s gratitude for veterans’ valor and sacrifice. This resolution remembers and honors America’s veterans this holiday season, while also teaching younger generations of the sacrifices that have been made to secure our freedoms and to defend our liberty.”

Wreaths Across America Day is something we can all rally around. There are local efforts to ensure that the veterans who are buried in southern Chester County are appropriately honored during Wreaths Across America.

Clarissa Sherrow, who chairs the Wreaths Across America effort in Oxford, said to this newspaper, “Our veterans should always know how much we appreciate them, and that we will never forget what they have done for us.”

All funds raised in Oxford goes to the Oxford Cemetery, the Lincoln University Cemetery, Mennonite Church Cemetery on Media Road, the Nottingham Cemetery, Fremont Cemetery and the Cemetery in Chrome at Mt. Olive Road.

People can help by contributing to either a local Wreaths Across America effort, or the national effort to make sure that the gravesites at Arlington National Cemetery have a wreath.

Interested persons can also go online at Wreaths Across America, Southern Chester County for more information about the local effort.

In total, nearly 257,000 sponsored wreaths are needed to reach the goal of placing a wreath on every eligible marker at Arlington National Cemetery. To sponsor a $15 veteran’s wreath for this location, please visit www.wreathsacrossamerica. org/ARLING. Wreaths Across America meets its mission to Remember, Honor, Teach.

&KHVWHU &RXQW\ 3UHVV 3XEOLVKHU 5DQGDOO 6 /LHEHUPDQ

6WHYH +RIIPDQ 0DQDJLQJ (GLWRU 5LFKDUG / *DZ $VVRFLDWH (GLWRU %UHQGD %XWW 2IILFH 0DQDJHU 7ULFLD +RDGOH\ $UW 'LUHFWRU $ODQ ( 7XUQV $GYHUWLVLQJ 'LUHFWRU 7HUL 7XUQV $GYHUWLVLQJ ([HFXWLYH +HOHQ ( :DUUHQ $GYHUWLVLQJ ([HFXWLYH $P\ /LHEHUPDQ 0DUNHWLQJ 3XEOLF 5HODWLRQV

12 5()81'6 $)7(5 5(&(,37 2) 68%6&5,37,21 3$<0(17 2daaT]c P]S _aTeX^db fTTZ b XbbdTb PaT TPRW >[STa XbbdTb PaT $ TPRW ?TaX^SXRP[b _^bcPVT _PXS Pc >gU^aS ?0 ("%" ?>BC<0BC4A) BT]S PSSaTbb RWP]VTb c^ 2WTbcTa 2^d]ch ?aTbb ? > 1^g $ :T[c^] ?0 ("#%

Courtesy photo

Mike Baker, Isabelle Myers and Wendy Smith gather around the Salvation Army bucket in front of the Oxford Walmart.

By Betsy Brantner Contributing Writer Residents of Oxford are missing a familiar face this year—that of former Mayor Harold “Wimpy” Gray, who rang the bell for the Salvation Army from 1965 until 2020. Gray passed away earlier this year.

Before the bell ringers came out, people were missing Gray at Redner’s Market, Wawa in Nottingham, and the Walmart. Gray brought in thousands of dollars for the town he loved in those years. People would go out during the holidays just to see him and chat with him, and no matter the weather, snow, sleet, rain, and frigid temperatures, he was there—smiling and ringing the bell.

This year, the Oxford Lions Club stepped up to pick up the torch and ring

the bell and, according to Lions Club president Mike Baker, “We intend to do this every year going forward.”

So it was a pleasant surprise to see Lions’ Club members Mike Baker and Wendy Smith, standing and chatting with Isabelle Myers as they rang the bell in front of the Oxford Walmart.

It was bittersweet to see new faces and continue to mourn the passing of Mayor Gray, but it was another reminder of how one man can change the world for one town and beyond.

Gray left a legacy that will continue to be talked about and written about, but perhaps his greatest legacy is the one of a great man, and African-American at a time when in many parts of the country he would not be allowed into the very stores that he protected as a police

officer, and later stood in front of, ringing a bell to bring in donations for those he wanted to provide for.

It wasn’t just about making a brighter Christmas for some, although the Salvation Army certainly does that. It was also about feeding the hungry, keeping the lights on and a home heated, and a roof over the heads of those that need a helping hand.

Gray said to many who listened to him as they put money in that red bucket, “I always knew ‘things’ would get better.” He may have meant that for a population that still is waiting for equality, but to anyone who knew him, he wanted things to get better for everyone no matter their color.

Gray imprinted that lesson of humanity upon the Oxford Lions Club, and that organization’s members

wouldn’t let that Salvation Army bell go silent in the town of Oxford.

You will see members of the Lions Club and other persons who Wimpy Gray left a piece of his heart to ringing the bell this year and years to come. He made us kinder, gentler people and when I hear that bell, I see the glorious smile of Wimpy Gray and feel his warmth.

The Oxford Lions Club is looking for members.

If you are interested in joining the Oxford Lions Club call Mike Baker at 484-644-0943 or Wendy Smith at 484-459-6940 for more information. The Lion’s Clubs is a community service organization that provides services and programs at the local and international levels. They donate all money that is raised to charities in Oxford and around the world.

Grove thanks Pennsylvanians for public Input on Congressional district map development Rep. Seth Grove (R-York), chairman of the House State Government Committee, is thanking Pennsylvanians for their input on Pennsylvania’s future congressional districts.

“Thank you to every resident who submitted a statewide map for consideration, shared about their community of interest or took the time to comment on the 2018 Supreme Court map with our online mapping tool,” Grove said.

“Your involvement in this once-in-a-decade process has been very much appreciated, and we look forward to requesting more public

input as we move forward in this process.”

For the last several months, residents were invited to use the website’s online mapping tool to identify communities of interest and comment on the current congressional map drawn by the Pennsylvania Supreme Court in 2018.

In recent weeks, residents were also able to submit verified statewide maps for consideration.

Using the online tool, Pennsylvanians identified 134 communities of interest, provided 153 comments on the current map and submitted 19 verified

statewide maps for consideration. While the window for providing input into map development is closed, residents are encouraged to view publicly submitted maps, communities of interest and comments by visiting www.paredistricting.com/input.

“People from all walks of life and from every corner of our Commonwealth took the time to engage in this process,” Grove said.

“Whether they testified at one of our regional hearings or submitted their feedback online, their input has been invaluable to the committee as we’ve embarked on the

most open and transparent congressional redistricting effort in Pennsylvania history.”

To ensure public input was top priority in this unprecedented process, the House State Government Committee, which is tasked with creating new congressional district maps, also held 12 hearings, including eight regional hearings in various parts of the state to receive input from residents. To watch or read testimony from one of the previously held hearings, residents should visit www.paredistricting.com/ hearingschedule.

Williams announces funding for Hillman Drive extension project State Rep. Craig Williams (RDelaware/Chester) recently announced the approval of $910,536 in Commonwealth Finance Authority funds for the Hillman Drive Extension project in Chadds Ford Township.

“According to the most recent PennDOT Annual Average Daily Traffic report, this is the most heavily traveled intersection in all of Delaware County,” stated Williams. “This is a very important project for our community, and I look

forward to its completion.”

The Hillman Drive Extension is the last piece of the southwest quadrant of the loop road that circumnavigates the intersection of U.S. Route 1 and Route 202 in both Chadds Ford and Concord townships. The

construction plans consist of connecting Route 1 at the traffic light across from Brandywine Drive, run past Brandywine View Antiques and Painters Crossing Condominiums, then to the roundabout at Evergreen and out Route 202 where

Hillman currently connects.

A 2011 report by Urban Engineers for the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation, concluded that the completion of the Hillman Drive Extension would create an improvement in delays at

the U.S. Route 1 and Route 202 intersection by up to 50 percent. Additionally, the elimination of left turn movement to and from Route 1 and Dickinson Drive will eliminate the accidents that frequently occur at that intersection.

6A

CHESTER COUNTY PRESS

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 15, 2021

Chester County Press

Local News Special riparian buffer installation provides many benefits Have you noticed trees with surrounding tubes or wire cages next to a stream?

Almost without fail, these trees were planted to create a riparian buffer to protect the stream from stormwater runoff, pollutants, and more. Riparian buffers provide many benefits, but their installation can be expensive and labor intensive.

Another streambank repair option uses live stakes, branch cuttings of certain native trees and shrubs that will grow into new trees and shrubs when in contact with moist soil. They can be placed in streambanks and are an effective, lowcost way to establish a root network to help prevent soil loss and to rebuild eroded banks. Common live stake shrubs include Red-osier Dogwood, Cornus sericea, Buttonbush, Cephalanthus

occidentalis, and other shrubs that are also often planted in our backyard habitats.

Penn State Extension Master Watershed Stewards of Chester & Delaware Counties combined these two stream repair techniques to create a newly installed Live Stake Nursery riparian buffer.

The Live Stake Nursery was planted this fall along Rock Run above the Coatesville Reservoir in West Caln Township. It consists of ninety native shrubs that, when mature, will provide live stakes (cuttings) to local conservation organizations and streamside landowners through educational workshops offered by Master Watershed Steward volunteers. These shrubs will provide future material to protect streams and habi-

Pictured are Cory Trego (Chester County Water Resources Authority), Perry Habecker (MWS volunteer), David Misner (Pennsylvania American Water), Meagan Hopkins-Doerr (Penn State Extension), Justin Brame (Pennsylvania American Water), and Chester County Commissioner Marian Moskowitz.

Courtesy photos

Pictured are Master Watershed Steward volunteers and Pennsylvania American Water employees.

tat across Chester County and Delaware County.

An additional benefit to this riparian buffer is the source water protection it will provide due to its location upstream of Rock Run Reservoir, which provides raw water supply to the greater Coatesville area.

The Watershed Coalition of the Lehigh Valley, in partnership with the Penn State Extension Master Watershed Steward program, received funding from Pennsylvania American Water to install five Live Stake Nurseries across Pennsylvania, including the one in West Caln.

This nursery was a collaboration between Pennsylvania American Water, Master Watershed Stewards of Chester & Delaware Counties, and Chester County Water Resources Authority with support from Chester County Commissioners, Chester County Conservation District, West Caln Township, and Coatesville Country Club.

“We’re extremely proud to have been able to provide funds to support this important project through our annual Environmental Grant program and are very grateful to the Watershed Coalition of the Lehigh Valley and the Penn State Extension Master Watershed Stewards for the commitment and dedication they’ve exhibited to bring it to fruition,” said Pennsylvania American Water President Mike Doran. “The benefits that this riparian buffer will bring to our local watershed, as well as to those where the harvested live stakes are planted in the future, are sure to be many and long-lasting.”

Chester County Commissioners Marian Moskowitz, Josh Maxwell, and Michelle Kichline said in a statement, “Chester County is a leader in open space preservation, but open space, if not properly managed and improved through stewardship and restoration, could cause water quality

problems and other issues.

Projects like this one are extremely important, and we thank Penn State Extension, the Watershed Coalition of the Lehigh Valley, our own Water Resources Authority staff and Pennsylvania American Water for their combined efforts to protect our streams and natural habitats.”

Penn State Extension Master Watershed Stewards (MWS) are locally educated and managed volunteers who address conservation priorities in collaboration with a broad partnership of organizations and local governments. The MWS Program recruits interested citizens from the community, provides them with formal classroom and hands-on, in-the-field learning, and then connects them with ongoing volunteer opportunities, such as riparian buffer installation, water quality monitoring, and watershed education activities. The program is now offered in 25 counties throughout the

state, with 776 volunteers, who have contributed over 56,000 volunteer hours since the program began in 2013.

If you would like to learn more about live stakes, stream health, or how to get involved, contact Meagan Hopkins-Doerr, Coordinator for Master Watershed Steward Program in Chester and Delaware Counties, at mxh1135@psu.edu or 610-696-3500.

For more information on Pennsylvania American Water’s annual Environmental Grant Program, visit https:// www.amwater.com/paaw/ news-community/environmental-grant-program.

The program funds innovative, community-based environmental projects aimed at improving, restoring or protecting the watersheds, surface water, and groundwater supplies in communities served by Pennsylvania American Water. Applications for 2022 funding will open in the spring.

BRANDYWINE VALLEY EXCLUSIVE

2022

HEALTH

AND MEDICAL GUIDE Ad Pro Inc, publishers of the Chester County Press and the Life Magazines will be publishing its popular guide to health, fitness and medicine.

This extremely comprehensive annual directory will feature advertising information from local hospitals, doctors and various health and wellness organizations. The booklet is skillfully designed to display the colorful magazine style pages and make your advertisement stand out. This contemporary 8" x 8.5" magazine promises to be a ready reference and keepsake for the entire year.

PROMOTE YOUR PRACTICE OR BUSINESS TO OVER 20,000 READERS

The comprehensive circulation of the Health and Medical Guide will be launched on January 26, 2022 when 11,000 copies will be the featured insert in the Chester County Press, the oldest and largest weekly newspaper in the county. In addition, 4,500 copies will be displayed at over 100 different newsstands, public areas, and select locations all over Southern Chester County and New Castle County, Delaware. The circulation coverage will blanket Chadds Ford, Longwood, Pocopson, Unionville, Kennett Square, Avondale, West Grove, Landenberg, Kemblesville, Lincoln University, Jennersville, Oxford, and Nottingham and also with increased coverage in Newark, Greenville, Hockessin, and Wilmington, Delaware. Thereafter, additional copies will be refreshed seasonally in the spring, summer and fall.

In addition, the 2022 Health & Medical Guide will contain a special section of services for the senior homeowners and aging population in Chester County and New Castle County.

PRICES INCLUDE FREE SPACE for your NEWS RELEASE & PHOTOGRAPHY PLUS FREE FULL COLOR AD COPY & NEWS RELEASE DEADLINE: JAN 7, 2022 • PUBLISHING DATE: JAN 26, 2022

Call 610-869-5553 for more information

Chester County Press

In the Spotlight

Section

B

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 15, 2021

Feel the holiday magic with a visit to Winterthur’s annual Yuletide Tour Celebrate the season with a one-of-a-kind holiday experience. The Yuletide Tour at Winterthur showcases rooms in Henry Francis du Pont’s former home decorated in full holiday splendor, including specially decorated trees that celebrate the garden. On view now through January 2, 2022, the displays are inspired by the traditions and festivities of the season as enjoyed

by H. F. du Pont and his family.

Special holiday programs throughout the season include Wonderful Wednesdays in December and evening events featuring live jazz performances, caroling, and workshops. In addition to the Wednesday evening festivities, visitors can enjoy live one-man performances of A Christmas Carol by Gerald Charles Dickens, the great-greatgrandson of Charles Dickens; wine and chocolate tastings; and family events with Santa and Mrs. Claus.

Winterthur founder H. F. du Pont (1880–1969) was born and spent his life on the estate, so the holidays were always a memorable time to celebrate with family and entertain friends.

Rooms on the tour will recreate the parlor where the du Pont family and their guests opened gifts on Christmas Day and the dining room where they enjoyed Christmas dinner.

Two vignettes depict New Year’s calling, a custom still practiced by the du Ponts. Every January 1, the women of the extended family gathered in hostess

groups at various houses while the men traveled in groups to call upon them, bearing small gifts. One display represents a calling from the 1890s while a second recreates one from the 1940s.

The decorated trees on view include the renowned 14-foot dried-flower tree, an evergreen decorated with hydrangeas, yarrow, statice, globe amaranth, and other flowers, and new to the tour this year, a second breathtaking tree designed with dried flowers. Other trees are inspired by areas of the garden such as the March Bank and Azalea Woods.

In celebration of the upcoming exhibition Jacqueline Kennedy and H. F. du Pont: From Winterthur to the White House, opening May 7, 2022, a decorated tree recreates the one displayed at the White House in 1962, created by the first lady. With the theme of a “Children’s Christmas,” it featured candles, birds, snowflakes, angels, tiny twig stars, small wrapped gifts, reindeer, candy canes, stuffed animals, and a model PT-109 boat commemorating the president’s heroic deed during World War II. The trees on the Yuletide Tour also complement the exhibition Outside In: Nature-inspired Design at Winterthur, on view through January 2.

The visually eclectic and immersive exhibition explores the connection to nature that is evident everywhere at Winterthur and which greatly influenced H. F. du Pont’s design aes-

Courtesy photo

The Yuletide Tour at Winterthur showcases rooms in Henry Francis du Pont’s former home decorated in full holiday splendor, including specially decorated trees that celebrate the garden.

thetic, one that has inspired other designers ever since.

Information about the Yuletide Tour is online at www.winterthur.org/ holidays.

There are a lot of events and activities to enjoy in the area this holiday season.

The Resident Ensemble Players (REP), the professional acting company at the University of Delaware, is rereleasing their audio presentation of Charles Dickens’ beloved holiday tale A Christmas Carol, adapted by Sara Valentine

and Michael Boudewyns.

This free audio production will be available for streaming online through Dec. 26, through the Resident Ensemble Players’ website www.rep.udel.edu.

A Christmas Carol is a familiar story, retold to the delight of audiences year after year. The eternally-damned spirit of Jacob Marley appears to Ebenezer Scrooge, warning it is not too late to escape his fate. Scrooge endures the visitations of three Spirits, confronting

him with his past and present sins in the hope that Scrooge may feel remorse and change his miserly ways.

Another event to get you in the holiday spirit is the popular Herr’s Annual Holiday Lights Display.

Herr Foods has been offering this light display during the holidays for more than 30 years. There are dozens of lighted displays for visitors to enjoy as they drive through the Herr Foods campus in Nottingham.

It requires a team of five

people approximately six weeks to create the annual lights display, using more than 600,000 lights. Now, approximately 90 percent of the lights that are part of the display are LED lights.

These LED lights use 80 to 90 percent less energy than incandescent lights. It takes almost 220 sets of lights to cover “Big Blue,” the largest tree display. It is 90 feet high. There is no charge to enjoy the light display, and it will be open each day from dusk to dawn through Jan. 2, 2022.

Upland Country Day School launches Living Kindness Program Just in time for the holiday season, Upland Country Day School announced its latest partnership with the Michael & Nancy Pia Foundation. The Living Kindness Program encourages children to spread more kindness and compassion throughout their community. The program will have an immediate impact on food insecurity in the area.

To kick start the project, the eighth-grade students and the greater Upland community designed and built a remote food bank on Upland’s campus in support of Kennett Area Community Services (KACS), a Kennett Squarebased food pantry serving hundreds of local families in need.

Nearly 40 students, parents, trustees, and faculty

A drop off box near Upland’s front entrance.

members came together to clean out an unused space in one of Upland’s buildings to store food donations.

The Pia Foundation aided in the cleanup providing HVAC improvements and sprucing up the space with fresh paint and new shelving. The next step was to stock the cupboard.

“As part of our morning drop-off, we’ve set up a little house in the driveway for students to bring in canned goods and non-perishable food items. Once a week, those items are dropped off to KACS,” said Dan Hickey, Head of School at Upland.

To date, The Upland Food Bank has donated 295 pounds. to the Food Cupboard, which feeds nearly 500 families in the Kennett, Unionville-Chadds Ford, and Avon Grove school districts. The school will continue collecting food after the holiday season, throughout the 2021-2022 school year, and beyond.

The Living Kindness Program mindfully develops future leaders and philanthropists by expanding their awareness of community needs and encouraging them to take action.

Nancy Pia, a former Upland parent and gener-

Courtesy photos

Upland Country Day School eighth-graders work on building the outdoor food drop-off box.

ous supporter of the school said, “The program’s purpose is to encourage students to spread more kindness and compassion throughout their community. We’re so excited to support Upland in its efforts and to help provide a home base to coordinate these efforts.”

This is the latest collaboration between the school and The Michael & Nancy Pia Foundation. Previously,

the Foundation gifted the school with a mindfulness coach to help students and faculty learn meditative techniques. Last year, it built a student-designed walking labyrinth on Upland’s campus. Walking labyrinths are used to quiet the mind, calm anxieties, enhance creativity, and encourage stress reduction.

Of this latest initiative, Liam Gallagher, who heads up the program for

the school, said, “During our school-wide assembly the week of Thanksgiving, many of our students named ‘food’ as something they’re thankful for. Our students realize that they can make a positive impact on their surrounding community not only by donating food to the Upland Food Bank but also by being mindful of the needs of others. This program is designed to be empathy in action.”

2B

CHESTER COUNTY PRESS

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 15, 2021

Chester County Press

Obituaries DON PHARAOH Don Pharaoh is loved by an ocean of people whose struggles and sunshine mattered to him. He touched and was touched by the lives of friends, family and chance acquaintances alike. Don had a special and infectious high-on-life persona. He never hesitated, always pursued his wants and needs and dreams, and experienced the universe with throttle wide open, enjoying life thoroughly. He appreciated all the moments that mattered and moved past the other stuff. Don said whatever was on his mind and was genuine and real. His special brand of humor ranged from dark, witty sarcasm to sweet and silly hold his hand on his chest with tears in his captivating aqua eyes laughter. He exuded charisma, warmth and a style that was all his own.

Don enjoyed performing at live venues (he drummed with amazing musicians and resumed gigging last year); riding motorcycles (especially through the ADK and anywhere else the road beckoned him); cool, big trucks and photos of old iron; vans (he had quite a few in his lifetime and even took it a step further wearing his favorite black-and-white checkered Vans when he wasn’t in a pair

of “dad’s boots”); boating (Yes, this list is amazing and he planned to get another one soon); good food and beverages discovered on trips or prepared at home; and adventures (he made a trip to the grocery store an event!). His energy and spirit are magical and will endure.

Don trucked in the early years. In 2006 he landed his favorite job (gig) working, and eventually managing, local music store McNeil Music of Ithaca in upstate New York. His later careers included service writing for big truck and motorcycle dealerships and finally working as a loader and operator in Moravia and then Auburn, N.Y. He was really good at everything he tried and had integrity and a strong work ethic.

He exited on a timeline that defies explanation or understanding and passed away shortly after starting his workday on Wednesday, Dec. 1, just two weeks away from his 54th birthday.

Throughout his life, Don was a student and mentor. Being a dad gave him the most joy and purpose and through Alexa, he became a well-rounded human. Please hold her close in your hearts for him. It does not make sense or feel real and probably isn’t meant to. Don was sort of like a mythical creature. He has been my special person, lover, friend, and a pain... longer than the 29 years of marriage. We met at marching band practice at Avon Grove High School in the

late summer of 1982. Our Opus Magnum, who he is infinitely proud of, Alexa Pharaoh, was born in 1996.

His dad, Robert E. Pharaoh of Cochranville, Pa. is mourning the loss of his second son and middle child.

Don is survived by mother, Barbara Pharaoh, and sister Sandy and her two girls. He was predeceased by his older brother, Ronald, who was only 17 when he passed away.

Don held a stoic or practical view of death and believed when the parts stopped working it was just done. He will be cremated, but a funeral and viewing is not being planned.

A VA motorcycle memorial will be coordinated when weather is conducive and we will take him for a last ride. A celebration of Don’s life is more fitting and will take place once Alexa’s and my world resumes rotation. Your love and support during these incredibly difficult days is carrying us through. I have had those of you who have lost your loved ones in my thoughts and truly know that there are no words, but the funny stories and fond memories help.

Cheers my hunk of burning love, Don Pharaoh, I wanted more time to get where we were going but will shift gears and treasure where we’ve been and promise I will make sure Pookie is okay. Margarita and Harley and Sheeba miss you, too.

Alleluia The Lord is a refuge for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble.

Psalm 9:9-10 The Chester County Press features a dedicated church/religious page that can help you advertise your house of worship and/or business. The page is updated weekly with new scripture. Only $10 Weekly for this space.

We are offering a special discount of 25% off each and every help wanted/ classified advertisement to any business that advertises on the PRESS church page.

Our Family Serving Your Family

For more information or to place an ad, contact Brenda Butt at 610-869-5553 ext. 10

Compliments of

Lions Club of Oxford HERR FOODS, INC. NOTTHINGHAM, PA

932-9330 ENCOURAGES YOU TO ATTEND THE CHURCH OF YOUR CHOICE

P.O. Box 270 Oxford, PA 19363 Meets First and Third Thursday at 6:30p.m.

Nottingham Inn, Nottingham, PA

Landenberg Church United Methodist All Are Welcome 205 Penn Green Rd. In Historic Downtown Landenberg Landenberg, PA 19350

610-274-8384 Services Every Sunday • 9:00 am

Wherever a beautiful soul has been, there is a trail of beautiful memories.

Matthew J. Grieco, Supervisor, Funeral Director / Certified Celebrant

We own and operate our own crematory Cremation, Burial, Pre-Planning

Specializing in Personalized Life Celebration Events at Venues of all kinds 1-800-FUNERAL & 1-800-CREMATE

ABOUT OUR STAFF Our funeral professionals offer a combination of ingenuity and have over 100 years of combined experience. As we guide you through the decision making process, we will explain options while ensuring your family's needs are being met. We feel our service to the families of Southern Chester County is more than a business. It’s a tradition of comfort and trust.

KUZO FUNERAL HOME, INC.

FOULK FUNERAL HOME

Keely W. Griffin, Supervisor

Curtis S. Greer, Supervisor

610.444.4116

610.869.2685

KENNETT SQUARE, PA

OF

www.kuzoandfoulkfh.com

WEST GROVE, INC.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 15, 2021

CHESTER COUNTY PRESS

3B

Chester County Press

Obituaries ROSA MARIA VASQUEZ AVENDANO Rosa Maria Vasquez Avendano, of Kennett Square, passed away on Dec. 5 at the Christiana Hospital. She was 46.

Born in Tlapizalco, Zumpahuacan, Mexico, she was the daughter of Evangelina Avendano Suarez of Mexico and the late Benjamin Crisoforo Vasquez Guadarrama.

Rosa was a waitress at El Rinconcito in Kennett Square.

She enjoyed helping others and being with her family and friends.

She always said, “Los Tiempos De Dios Son Perfecto.”

Rosa is survived by one daughter, Genesis Jovana Juarez Vasquez of Kennett Square; six brothers, German Vasquez Avendano of Kennett Square, Esteban Vazquez Avendano of Mommouth, IL, Miguel Angel Vasquez Avendano, Angel Vasquez Avndano, Martin Vazquez Avendano, and Salvador Vasquez Avendano, all of Mexico.

You are invited to visit with her family and friends from 5 to 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday evening, Dec. 15, at St. Rocco’s Catholic Church, 333 Sunny Dell Road in Avondale. Her Funeral Mass will follow at 6:30. Burial will be in Mexico.

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

Arrangements are being handled by the Foulk Funeral Home of West Grove.

JUNE MAXINE ROLAND June Maxine Roland, of Oxford, passed away on Dec. 8 at Christiana Hospital in Newark, Del. She was 74.

Born in West Grove, she was the daughter of the late John Henry and Mary Louise Reyburn Roland.

Maxine loved spending time with her family, going on Facebook and playing soduko puzzles.

She is survived by three children, Mark Alan Mellinger, Sr. (Melanie Ann) of Peach Bottom, Tonja Wallace (Bill) of Oxford and Chastity Hardmon (Luis) of Drumore; four grandchildren, Billy, Kortney, Talynn and Brennan; ten great-grandchildren; and four siblings, Jerry Roland, Jeff Roland and Yvonne Hershey and Judy Jobe.

She was preceded in death by her companion, Gary Jay Mellinger, a grandson, Mark Alan Mellinger, Jr. and two brothers, John Roland and Robert Roland.

Services are private.

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

Additional Obituaries on Page 5B

COURTLAND COOPER HANNUM Courtland Cooper Hannum, 76, of Jefferson, Md., passed away on Dec. 4 at Inova Loudoun Hospital.

He was the husband of Sharon Hannum, who passed away in 2019, and with whom he shared 54 years of marriage.

Born in Chester County, he was the son of the late Beatrice and Courtland (Sr) Hannum. He spent his 40-plus year career as a home builder and realtor. He began in the real estate business with his father, later expanding the business from realty to include home building. He later went to work for North American Housing Corporation, prompting his move to Jefferson, Md. The final phase of his career was as co-owner of Distinguished Homes.

Court was an avid racing and car enthusiast, and participated in events ranging from hill climbs to Formula Vee racing. Most recently, he was the pit crew chief for his sons as they raced Formula Vee. He was an active mem-

ber of the Sports Car Club of America, where he was well respected, having been involved in Formula Vee racing since the inception of the class in the mid-1960s. Court was a devoted husband, father and grandfather, and spent his life helping anybody who needed help.

He is survived by one brother, Douglas Hannum; three children, Doug Hannum, William Hannum (and wife Susan) and Stephanie Watkins (and husband Todd); and six grandchildren, Courtney Oddo (and husband Ryan), Noah Watkins, Hannah Watkins, Amy Hannum, Samuel Watkins (and wife Elly), and Adam Watkins.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be sent to Hospice of Frederick County, Md. at www.frederickhealthhospice.org.

Interment will take place on Dec. 20 at 11a.m. at West Grove Friends Meeting, 153 E Harmony Road, West Grove, Pa. A Celebration of Life will follow.

Condolences to the family and more information may be found at www.potomaccremation.com.

DOLORES COSTANZO COOPER Dolores Costanzo Cooper, known as “Mama Dee,” died on Dec. 4 at Chester County Hospital. She was a 90-year-old resident of West Grove.

She was the wife of the late Vance M. Cooper, who died in 2011, and with whom she shared 59 years of marriage.

Born in West Grove, she was a daughter of the late Joseph and Ethel Walker Costanzo.

Dolores is survived by three sons, David C. Cooper of Kennett Square, Jeffrey N. Cooper (Paula) of Dover, Del. and Jon Christopher Cooper (Kristen Binz-Perrone) of Hockessin, Del.; one daughter, Candace L. Cooper of Lewes, Del.; six grandchildren, Erin, John, Kevin, Kimberly, Ryan and Jacob and three great-grandchildren, Nolen Mae Barrow, John Hillferty and Jason Hillferty.

It may sound cliché, but to know Dee Cooper was to love Dee Cooper. Her energy was magnetic and light-filled, creating a lasting impression on anyone she met. Even articulating just how special she was is difficult because her personality and presence was so dynamic. Loud, fun, crazy, and someone who did things her own way, always – all wrapped into a highly accessorized, colorful bundle of beauty and joy. Who else is a flower girl at the age of 85? Did she ever mention to you that she won “best legs” as a high school superlative? It’s a fact, but perhaps her greatest gift was her ability to create true, meaningful connections with so many in her life.

Dee loved to know people and their stories; she could

make you feel heard and seen like no one else. She was kind, generous and always made you feel special. And if you were lucky enough, she would shower you with her yard sale treasures. Time never slowed her down, and she was always young at heart with charm and comedic timing that never dulled.

Dee grew up as an only child that always dreamed of becoming an actress. Even though she never made it to the silver screen, she made a home on the small stage in her youth and kept a flair for the dramatic throughout life. Her favorite place to be was her home at the shore on Benny’s Landing Road, spending summers that always went too quickly with a never-ending guest list of friends and family. In its heyday, the walls were covered from floor-to-ceiling with anything and everything that made an impression on her: knickknacks, photos, quotes – you name it. And they all had a story. She treasured experiences and people, and never forgot a thing.

There may never be another human quite like Dee Cooper, but to have had her as part of your life is truly a blessing. She will be greatly missed, but dearly remembered by so many.

Services were held on Dec. 11. Interment will be held privately.

Contributions in her memory may be made to Goodwill (online) at https://www.yourgoodwill.org/donate/money/ monetary-donations.

Arrangements are being handled by Matthew J. Grieco of Grieco Funeral Home & Crematory, (484-734-8100).

Condolences may be shared at www.griecofunerals.com.

4B

CHESTER COUNTY PRESS

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 15, 2021

Chester County Press

Local News Landon honored as Student of the Month Elizabeth Landon has been named the Avon Grove Lions Club Student of the Month for November from Avon Grove High School.

She is the daughter of Linda Landon of West Grove. Elizabeth is active in school with Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA), Field Hockey (9th, 10th, 11th & 12th), Field Hockey Captain (12th) and as wrestling manager.

Elizabeth has been active in the community by volunteering at Unionville Plantation Horse event, Fair Hill 5 Star Horse event, travel baseball concession stand volunteer and working with the Wildcats Youth Field Hockey Day Camp.

Elizabeth's list of achievements include awards in physical education, science and equestrian. In addition, she received a Rookie of the

Courtesy photo

Pictured are Avon Grove High School assistant principal Gary Benasutti, Linda Landon, Elizabeth Landon, Glenn Spencer and Avon Grove Lions First Vice President Fran Thomson.

Year award in field hockey and has achieved high and distinguished honors throughout high school.

Elizabeth plans to attend Wilson College, where she intends to major in

veterinary nursing and preveterinary sciences and play field hockey.

Teachers she has been influenced by are Ms. Antignani, Ms. Landon, Mr. McCloskey, Mr. Pizzini and Mrs. Rurode.

Legals ESTATE NOTICE

ESTATE OF Phyllis Lillard, also known as Phyllis K. Lillard, late of Lower Oxford Township, Chester County, Deceased.

Letters Testamentary on the estate of the above named Phyllis Lillard having been granted to the undersigned, all persons having claims or demands against the estate of the said decedent are requested to make known the same and all persons indebted to the said decedent to make payment without delay to: James Earle Lillard, Executor, c/o Attorney: Winifred Moran Sebastian, Esquire, 208 E. Locust Street, P.O. Box 381 Oxford, PA 19363 Phone: 610-932-383 12p-8-3t

NOTICE OF TERMINATION OF PARENTAL RIGHTS ACTION

The Family Court of the State of Delaware, New Castle County TO: Adela Zavaleta , Respondent, Alfredo Ayon , Respondent FROM: Clerk of Family Court The Department of Services for Children, Youth and Their Families, Petitioner, has brought a civil action (Petition # 21-23292) against you to terminate your parental rights of your child(ren): Minor Female, DOB: 11/20/14, Minor Male, DOB: 04/08/16, Minor Female, DOB: 02/22/17, Minor Male, DOB: 09/18/19 A hearing has been scheduled at the Family Court, 500 N. King Street, Wilmington, Delaware, on January 11, 2021, at 11:00 am. If you do not participate in the hearing, the Court may terminate your parental rights without your participation. DESPITE THE COVID-19 STATE OF EMERGENCY, FAMILY COURT WILL HOLD THIS HEARING. Please call 302-255-0077 or email FC_COVID19@delaware.gov for help

in participating by phone.

IF YOU WISH TO BE REPRESENTED

BY AN ATTORNEY IN THIS MATTER BUT CANNOT AFFORD ONE, YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO HAVE THE COURT APPOINT AN ATTORNEY TO REPRESENT YOU FOR FREE. FOR MORE INFORMATION ON YOUR RIGHT TO AN ATTORNEY, PLEASE CONTACT THE CLERK AT FAMILY COURT, (302) 255-0300 12p-8-3t

ESTATE NOTICE

Estate of Dorothy A. Kuntz, Late of Phoenixville, 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 Debra Kaczmar, 4289 Chestnut Drive, Walnutport, PA 18088, Executor.

12p-8-3t

Corporation Law of 1988. McCreesh, McCreesh, McCreesh & Cannon, 7053 Terminal Square,Upper Darby, PA 19082 12p-15-1t

PUBLIC NOTICE

OXFORD BOROUGH RESIDENTS The Oxford Borough Planning Commission meeting has been rescheduled for January 4th at 6:30 p.m. at the Oxford Borough Hall, 1 Octorara Alley, Oxford, PA. Information on meetings can be found at www.oxfordboro.org.

If you are a person with a disability and wish to attend the meeting and require an auxiliary aid, service or other accommodations to observe or participate in the proceedings, please contact the Borough Manager to discuss how your needs may best be accommodated.

12p-15-1t

ESTATE NOTICE

Estate of Helena Madeline Mack, Late of Oxford, East Nottingham 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 Veronica Lynn Pidge, 214 Wilson Mill Road, Oxford, Pennsylvania, 19363, Executor.

12p-15-3t

ESTATE OF MARY ELIZABETH BOWES a/k/a MARY ELIZABETH COLGAN, DECEASED. Late of Lower Oxford 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 MARY ELIZABETH COLGAN a/k/a MARY BETH COLGAN, EXECUTRIX, 3431 Verner St., Drexel Hill, PA 19026, Or to her Attorney: ANITA M. D’AMICO, D’AMICO LAW, 65 S. Third St., Oxford, PA 19363 12p-15-3t

INCORPORATION NOTICE

PUBLIC AUCTION NOTICE:

ESTATE NOTICE

DANIELLE HORSESHOE INC. has been incorporated under the provisions of the Pennsylvania Business

3 Amish Ladies & an English Woman Cleaning Service 484-995-7149

DEStorage.com Newgarden, located at 710 Newark Rd Landenberg, PA 19350, Will be holding a Public ONLINE Auction at www.ibid4storage.com Closing on January 11th, at 10 AM. The following units will be sold because of nonpayment of rent pursuant to the Pennsylvania Self Service Storage Facilities Act. Auction bidding and additional information about the contents, including photographs, is available on www.ibid4storage.com. Sale and payment will take place at the storage facility. Containing: Furniture, household items, totes, clothing, and boxes Jessica Thompson Unit #1044 Kenneth Church Unit #3300 DEStorage.com Newgarden reserves the right to withdraw any storage unit from sale or cancel the sale without prior notice.

12p-15-2t

Andy's Lawn Care Lawn & Field Mowing Aerating & Overseeding Lawn Renovation Seasonal Cleanups Mulching Landscaping Tree & Stump Removal Lot & Land Clearing Grading & Drainage Snow Removal

(610) 274-2273 Office or (610) 721-3119 cell

Trailer Repair Welding

Truck Acces.

Spray Liners

BASHER & SON 610-268-0007 • basherandson.com

Over 40 Years Experience UHAUL

Hitches

See these local businesses and many more on our website Click Directory

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 15, 2021

CHESTER COUNTY PRESS

5B

Chester County Press

Local News Chester County Chamber of Business & Industry hosts annual awards celebration Michael Duncan, president and CEO of Chester County Hospital, was honored as Executive of the Year The Chester County Chamber of Business & Industry (CCCBI) recently hosted its annual awards celebration at Longwood Gardens, where it named Chester County Hospital CEO Michael Duncan as its executive of the year.

“We were so happy to host a major in-person event at the beautiful Longwood Gardens,” said

Dave Hackett, Chamber Board Chair. “It was a testament to the strength and resilience of the Chester County business community.”

Each year, CCCBI honors a senior executive of a company who has demonstrated great business and civic leadership in our community. This year, the award went to Duncan.

Obituaries Obituaries continued from Page 3B

MARGARET ANN ZUNINO Margaret Ann Zunino, a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and spouse of the late Joseph D. Zunino, passed away peacefully on Dec. 9 while surrounded by her family. She was 89.

Born in Toughkenamon, Margaret was the daughter of the late Charles and Helen Everley.

Margaret was a member of St. Gabriel of the Sorrowful Mother Catholic Church in Avondale, where she helped to clean the church and count the collections.

She enjoyed spending many hours making beautiful palms of crosses and flowers for Easter and always loved bringing her family to the church’s annual spaghetti dinner.

She also enjoyed cooking, making homemade pasta, ravioli and meatballs. She was also known for her Easter braids and Christmas pizzelles.

Margaret worked as a bookkeeper at the tax claims office of the Chester County Courthouse until retiring at age 61.

She loved spending time with her family and going to breakfast with her three sisters.

Margaret was the beloved wife of the late Joseph D. Zunino (2010); the mother of Mario (Patricia), Robert (Patricia), and Joanne (Jeffrey) Marvel; the grandmother of Stefani (Michael) Donald, Stephen (Kerrie), Michael, Phillip (Kelly), Megan, Jeffery (Nicole) Marvel, Lori Marvel; and great-grandmother of Jett Donald, Miles Donald, Layla Zunino, Dominic Zunino, Gabriella Zunino, Hunter Zunino. She was the sister of Rosalind Giancola, Carolyn Everley, and Barbara Edwards. She was predeceased by her sister, Helen Hedrick.

You are invited to visit with her family and friends from 9:30 to 10:45 a.m. on Thursday, Dec. 16 at St. Gabriel of the Sorrowful Mother Church, 8910 Gap Newport Pike (Route 41), in Avondale.

Her Funeral Mass will follow at 11 a.m.

Burial will be in St. Patrick’s Cemetery, Route 82, in Kennett Square.

Memorial donations may be made in Margaret’s name to St. Gabriel of the Sorrowful Mother Catholic Church, P.O. Box 709, Avondale, Pa. 19311.

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

LINDA LEE PEIRSON Linda Lee Peirson, the beloved wife of Paul V. Peirson, Jr. for over 40 years, passed away peacefully on Dec. 8.

She was born on March 9, 1948 to Charles Robert Freeman and Ida Rawlins Freeman in Wilmington, Del. and graduated from McKean High School in 1967.

Linda worked for the Williams Family Auto Mall in Elkton, Md. for over 15 years. She was also a caregiver for children with special needs, and the elderly. She was a faithful member of the West Grove United Methodist Church, where she volunteered her time.

Linda was a loving and caring person who was interested in many things. She loved to read, sew, watch detective movies, collect lighthouses and angels. She enjoyed the beach, travel, and taking care of her treasured pets, Alfie and Binx.

She is survived by her father, sisters, Wendy Wymer, Leona Keener, and Patricia Burchum.

Left to mourn her loss is her brother-in-law, Dean McWilliams, sister-in-law, Paula Wentz, best friend, Kristina Patterson, the Jones Family of West Grove, her church family, and her loving Williams, Foote, and Peirson cousins. She was preceded in death by her husband, her mother-in-law and father-in-law Pete and Elinor McWilliams of Oxford, her uncle and aunt in law, David and Peggy Williams of Elkton, Md., her brother, Charles Freeman, and her mother.

A celebration of Linda’s life will be held on Wednesday, Dec. 15 at the United Methodist Church in West Grove. Visitation will begin at 10 a.m. followed by the funeral at 11 a.m. All are welcome. She will be laid to rest beside her beloved husband Paul in the Unionville Cemetery.

Arrangements are being handled by the Foulk Funeral Home in West Grove.

Please visit Mrs. Peirson’s online memorial by going to www.kuzoandfoulkfh.com.

Prior to this new position, he served as CEO and executive director of ColumbiaDoctors, a 1,200-physician faculty practice plan at Columbia University in New York City. Before joining Columbia, Duncan was the CEO of Temple University Physicians and vice dean for clinical operations at Temple University School of Medicine in Philadelphia.

In addition to honoring the Executive of the Year, CCCBI also honors two Citizens of the Year.

For 2021, they were Dave Magrogan, CEO of Harvest Restaurant Holdings and the Dave Magrogan Group, and Bob Rafetto, former co-owner of Dilworthtown Inn, Blue Pear Bistro, and the Inn Keeper’s Kitchen.

Hackett noted, “It was an honor to recognize Bob and Dave’s tremendous efforts to assist the hospitality industry through the pandemic as well as Michael Duncan’s leadership.”

Courtesy photos

Chester County Chamber of Business & Industry recently hosted the annual awards celebration. The Chamber recognized Michael Duncan as the Executive of the Year, and also honored Dave Magrogan, CEO of Harvest Restaurant Holdings and the Dave Magrogan Group, and Bob Rafetto, former co-owner of Dilworthtown Inn, Blue Pear Bistro, and the Inn Keeper’s Kitchen.

6B

CHESTER COUNTY PRESS

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 15, 2021

Kohler Crushed Stone Showers By Home Smart

Project time:

2 weeks

2 DAYS.

Why settle for shower walls that look like plastic?

Home Smart Industries is the areas only Authorized Dealer of Kohler’s LuxStone shower wall system made of 70% real crushed marble and professionally installed at prices comparable to acrylic showers. When you have our Kohler LuxStone Design Consultants to your home for a Design Consultation, you will be given an exact, to the penny price including all labor, materials, removal, haul away, installation and permits. No surprise costs AND we honor that price for 1 year GUARANTEED. All of the design and product selection is done in your home, saving you time and ensuring the choices work perfectly with your space. We offer senior & military discounts as well as other discounts plus financing so a shower remodel is affordable on any budget. Don’t cover your problem up with a tub or shower liner. Design your bathtub or shower replacement with our trained and certified Specialists at a price you can afford.

“Great experience with Home Smart. I collected a couple quotes for a bathtub/surround replacement. Home Smart offered the most aesthetically pleasing option at a competitive price. They also beat the installation lead time estimate by ~4 weeks. Ken and Tony came and efficiently completed the install. My house is old and there were challenges to work with, but they worked through them and in the end, product looks really great. Thanks!”

Read more reviews from our satisfied customers!

4.9 Stars, 374 reviews

INDUSTRIES Bathtubs | Showers | Kohler Walk-In Baths

Authorized Dealer

1,000 OFF

$

plus

0 APR %

Low monthly payment plans

and

FREE ESTIMATES ON BATH

& SHOWER REPLACEMENTS

Call Home Smart today to schedule your free in-home estimate.

Home Smart Industries, Family Owned & Operated

888-670-3731 >Must call this number<

Bathtubs | Walk-In Baths | Showers | Shower Doors | Fixtures | Faucets | Accessories

www.HomeSmartind.com

*Cannot be combined with any other offer. Previous sales excluded. Good at initial presentation only. $1,000 discount is only available to be used towards purchasing Luxstone walls. Additional work is extra and optional. Financing available for qualified buyers. Exp. 09/01/2021 PA:PA013302 * NJ: 13VH 04301900 MD: MD129485 * DE: 2008206060 NO PRICE QUOTES GIVEN VIA PHONE.