Chester County Press 12-27-2023 Edition

Chester CountyPRESS

www.chestercounty.com

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

Volume 157, No. 52

Wednesday, December 27, 2023

$1.50

‘We are all colleagues’

Scudder Stevens concludes 12 years as Kennett Township supervisor

By Richard L. Gaw Staff Writer When Kennett Square attorney Scudder Stevens first let it be known that he was campaigning to become a member of the Kennett Township Board of Supervisors in the summer of 2011, the Democrat was formally introduced by friends, political advocates and recent township history to a proverbial and impenetrable border wall.

They told him that the municipality was a castle surrounded on all sides by a moat and above its high-

INSIDE

est spires flew the flag of the Old Guard Republicans, who had held a vice grip on the municipality as its financial overseers and lone voices for decades.

The township’s Board of Supervisors – Michael Elling, Robert Hammaker and Allan Falcoff – who was locked in an election with Stevens to win a sixyear term – held rigid sway over public meetings; they accepted very little resident input and they carried a banner that informed everyone that the township was a sound and functioning entity. Collectively, the

To Subscribe Call 610.869.5553

Unionville lacrosse highlighted at Sports Hall of Fame banquet...1B

Continued on Page 2A Photo by Richard L. Gaw

Scudder Stevens is leaving the Kennett Township Board of Supervisors after 12 years on the board.

Pictured with Stevens at his last meeting on Dec. 20 are, from left, township Manager Eden Ratliff, supervisors Richard Leff and Geoffrey Gamble and incoming supervisor Pat Muller.

Kennett Township board wraps year with several approvals

By Richard L. Gaw Staff Writer

Unionville High School students build benches in memory of late classmate...4A

three ran the township from an office in the Township Building, while Manager Lisa Moore quietly and efficiently oversaw the financial checks and balances of the township.

The Kennett Township Board of Supervisors concluded its 2023 meetings with two key items on the agenda: recognizing outgoing supervisor Scudder Stevens for his 12 years of service to the board and adopting several township initiatives.

With Stevens serving as the ceremonial chairman for the meeting, the board: • Approved the implementation of Ordinance 305 that establishes a tax credit for volunteer first responders in the township as a means of incentivizing volunteerism at any of the three area fire companies – the Longwood Fire Company, the Kennett Fire Company No. 1 and the PoMarLin Fire Company – in accordance with Act 172 of 2016. First responders who reside in the township and comply with the incor-

porated active policy will receive a 100 percent rebate of their real estate taxes and up to $1,500 of their earned income tax; • Approved the waiver of two requested subdivision and land development ordinances related to the Health Center Building at the Kendal at Longwood community, which is in the planning stages to remove a portion of the existing building, add an addition and undergo renovation. Kendal at Longwood was requesting to waive the requirement of curbing along the proposed parking within the project site to provide a user-friendly environment for those residents with mobility restrictions; and • Voted to waive four requested subdivision and land development ordinances that will allow a preliminary/final plan to be submitted for the construction of the new, 105,000

square-foot Greenwood Elementary School, which, when completed, will contain a one-story wing with a two-story classroom wing behind it and be able to have a capacity of 660 students.

The board also voted to execute its agreement with the Brandywine Red Clay Alliance (BRC) for the construction of the Kennett Greenway easement on Chandler Mill Road. The BRC’s office is located at the confluence of Chandler Mill Road and the Chandler Mill Bridge where the Greenway is intended to be built.

Township Manager Eden Ratliff said that the BRC will provide the township with easements necessary for the project, including a donation for the temporary construction easement, which has a value of $3,400.

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

Celebrate Midnight in the Square on New Year’s Eve

Courtesy photo

How does the Mushroom Capital of the World ring in the new year? With an enormous illuminated mushroom, of course. The legendary annual celebration, presented by the Mushroom Festival in the tradition of the Times Square ball drop, begins at 7:30 p.m. with music, dancers, and a laser light show at the intersection of State and Union streets. The raising of the mushroom is at 8:55 p.m., followed by the Mushroom Drop at midnight to usher in 2024! Find more information at midnightinthesquare.com.

FROM Santa’s helpers OUR LENS take on a On the meeting agenda: A Yuletide celebration

busy holiday schedule

By Chris Barber Contributing Writer

© 2007 The Chester County Press

Photo by Richard L. Gaw

This collection of decorated trees served to illuminate the meeting room at the New Garden Township Building in the colors of the season.

The wonder and excitement of Christmas would be significantly reduced were it not for the thousands of helpers who jump into action to assist Santa and Mrs. Claus each holiday season.

These dedicated helpers show up at special events, parades and tree lightings throughout the nation, listening to requests from children.

In southern Chester County, longtime Santa helpers Fran and Andrea Durynski of London Grove are proud of this avocation.

They admit, however, that it takes more than sitting in a chair and giving ear to

children’s desires.

Mrs. Santa, 80, said the satisfaction has never abated, even after several decades, but there is more.

“There’s nothing like the feeling when they cheer you when they see you coming into town, or when they grab your hand when you walk. … That’s the best,” she said.

With it all, she and Santa, 76, have stories to tell about the complexities of the adventure.

One issue is scheduling.

Being the most prominent Santa and Mrs. Claus in the area, they get many requests for their appearances from public and private parties, so they start filling their calendar in November.

Continued on Page 2A

2A

CHESTER COUNTY PRESS

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 27, 2023

Chester County Press

Local News Stevens...

Continued from Page 1A

Against that backdrop, Stevens pledged to open the locked doors of the township’s business and turn it into a long conversation between officials and residents – to introduce respectful opinions and arguments into the vernacular of what had been a municipality of whispers.

On the second Tuesday that November, Stevens’ message resonated: He crushed Falcoff by a vote of 1,226 to 795 and became the first Democrat since the Civil War to be elected to its Board of Supervisors.

For Stevens, whose twoterm duration as supervisor comes to an end on Dec. 31 – he will be succeeded

by Democrat Pat Muller – his 12 years of public service to the township has rolled out like a canvas of various textures and tenor for everyone to witness.

He has been both a gifted orator and an occasional cantankerous grump; both a dedicated public servant and a verbal pugilist capable of tossing those who disagree with him under a bus of his own making.

He has a trusted group of supporters and a vociferous list of detractors. The methods by which he has moved the township’s business toward consensus have been both methodical and measured, dotted with respectful argument, and touched off by occasional outbursts that have left him – and those who have disagreed with him – flustered and frustrated.

In the generous space between these juxtapositions, however, he has taken part in more groundbreaking initiatives than any other Kennett Township supervisor in recent memory. With his fellow board members, he has:

• Served as a key supporter in the township’s purchase of Barkingfield Park • Been the principal voice in the renovation of the Chandler Mill Bridge as a pedestrian-only structure that also provides emergency vehicle access • Brokered with local conservation agencies to purchase and preserve open space in the township, including Spar Hill Farm, the Miller Farm and the Lord Howe property • Reached out to local municipalities that resulted in the formation of the Fire and EMS Commission • Pressed to encourage more public, open and collaborative input at all meetings • Been one of the most prominent supporters of the Kennett Township Police Department, advocating for its expansion and its broadened coverage of township residents • Orchestrated, with his fellow board members, the hiring of a new township manager, finance director and staff that have instituted more stringent financial checks and balances, in the wake of the worst chapter in the township’s history “I will miss the opportunity to interact with my colleagues on matters that are important to me and my community – to define the issues and search for possible solutions for whatever the issue may be,” Stevens said in an interview with the Chester County Press.

“The creativity, the commitment, and the integrity of the people I have worked with have been from my point of view, exemplary.

“I have always valued the opportunity to share ideas.

Obviously, I did not always agree with everyone, and while that was a challenge, most of the time there was a level of respect and camaraderie where we could find some sort of shared values.”

‘Because you’re the enemy’ It didn’t start out that way.

Soon after he was sworn in as a supervisor in January of 2012, Stevens was directed to his office at the Township Building – on the second level, one floor removed from the office occupied by Elling and Hammaker.

“One day after a meeting, we were all gathered on the first floor and I said to Mike [Elling], ‘Why do you act towards me the way you do?

Why can’t we work together in some way?’” Stevens said. “Mike looked at me and said, ‘Because you’re the enemy.’

“I looked at him and said, ‘Okay, if that’s the way you want it, then that’s the way it is,’ and we went on that way for the next two years.

It reflected how one local government was dealing with its citizenry. I assumed it was because I had a ‘D’ next to my name, but it may have been to the extent that I had the temerity to attack his establishment, whether I was a Democrat or a Republican.”

Then, one by one, the Republicans disappeared from the township’s board. In 2013, Richard Leff defeated Republican Jim Przywitowski – thus replacing Elling – and in 2016, Whitney Hoffman became the third Democrat on the board after defeating Republican Ted Moxon – subsequently replacing Hammaker.

In bold defiance of previous administrations, it was clear from the start that the new board would pivot from the township’s tradition of “unanimous vote without discussion” to one of constructive debate, and from his seat as the board chairman, Stevens led the three-person orchestra.

“Scudder is a Quaker, and because of that influence, he brought a lot of the Quaker values to the board – the need to create and main-

Photo by Richard L. Gaw

Stevens with longtime board colleague Richard Leff.

tain quality and stability and build consensus, and they come through in the way that he operates,” said Hoffman, who served with Stevens for six years. “He has brought thoughtfulness and deliberateness to his public service.”

“I think having disagreements on policy issues of importance to the township that are discussed in public is a good way to run our government, and that has been one of the biggest accomplishments of Scudder’s role as a supervisor,” Leff said.

“Having differences on how to proceed is the right thing.

It’s not about name-calling and attempting to ruin one’s career, but certainly, there should be disagreements, because as things change, so do attitudes.

“It’s healthy that we have had debate -- to engage in substantive arguments on policies that do not always have a clear and definitive answer.”

For the next few years, Stevens, Leff and Hoffman debated and pushed their way through issues and initiatives both small and significant, but as 2019 began, a new hurdle began to emerge, one so encroaching that it threatened the future and the reputation of Kennett Township for decades to come.

$3,249,453 In late April of 2019, Stevens was driving in his car when he received a call from then-Police Chief Lydell Nolt, asking Stevens to meet him at the Township Building. Stevens was soon met by Nolt and two detectives, who asked Stevens if it was his signature that was attached to various township documents they had in their possession. Every one of his signatures, Stevens noticed, was identical to the others.

“It was a rubber stamp of my signature, and that’s when I learned that [the theft of funds from the township] was in the low six figures,” Stevens said. “I then drove to Rich’s house – he and Whitney were at a work dinner -- and that’s when I laid it all out on the table to them about the situation, and so we began to talk about how we were going to manage the township.”

Throughout the summer of 2019, each new grain of evidence began to unravel a nearly decade-long parlor game of deception, private accounts and thievery that had left the financial accounting of the township in tatters.

On May 11, 2019, Kennett Township sent an e-mail to the Chester County Press, with a headline that

read “Important Kennett Township Announcement,” indicating that it was exploring suspicious transactions discovered in its bank accounts. At noon that day, a letter was sent to township residents that began, “The Board of Supervisors pledged to you to have an open and transparent government. In keeping with that pledge, we are writing today to inform you about a serious situation. Rest assured, the supervisors are taking every step to safeguard the township and our residents.”

The second paragraph read, “On Thursday, April 25, 2019, the supervisors were notified by the Fraud Department of our bank that they had found a number of suspicious transactions on township accounts.”

The release went on to say that the township had carefully reviewed the findings with the bank, legal and law enforcement representatives and immediately referred the matter to the Chester County District Attorney’s Office.

Working out of a makeshift office for countless hours and subsisting largely on take-out, the three supervisors worked together, combing through township accounting procedures, hiring the law firm Blank Rome

the event is finished. She’s pleased when he Santa's helpers... when When their job involves arrives with it decorated for Continued from Page 1A

Mrs. Claus said sometimes the requested appearances are scheduled close together, not to mention that she and Santa are fitting their gigs into their ordinary workaday lives. Recently they had to schedule two appearances in one day with only an hour between the two.

The challenge was to finish up in Oxford and then drive to Pocopson to get there on time.

Santa’s helpers don’t have the luxury of reindeer, like North Pole Santa Claus, either. They drive to gigs in their car.

Their destinations often involve arriving at locations where many people have already shown up to await their arrival, having used up the local parking places. The Santas have to make sure that they will have a parking area awaiting them.

Then there is the issue of returning to their parked car

a parade, they start in one place and end up at another.

Thanks to the generosity of local police, they are routinely given a ride back to the starting point and their car.

“The Southern Chester County Police have a really nice car with lots of leg room,” Santa said.

Mrs. Claus added that her memory of transportation turns to arriving in the fire truck and navigating the high step down from truck to parking lot. It’s a big step for this elderly couple, who depend on a hand from the firefighters, who themselves routinely make easy work of it.

She also mentioned the rides in parades they have made through the years.

At one time, it was in a horse and carriage pulled by equines, Jake and Jasper.

More recently it is in the back seat of antique car aficionado Lou Mandich’s 1918 Packard Touring Car.

%GNGDTCVKPI [GCTU

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

(TGG 'UVKOCVGU ^ #NN (WGNU

the holiday.

Not many people have Santa Claus costumes in their homes. Mrs. Claus said the initial costumes she and her husband wear have lasted through the years.

She recalled that, one season, they got the costumes out ahead of time and sent them to the cleaners. They came back with the white trim having been turned pink.

“We got it fixed in time,” she said.

The high point for the Santas and Mrs. Clauses is the response from the children – even from infants under a year old.

They love it.

There are occasionally children who have no interest or who throw tantrums, but overwhelmingly it is gratifying for Santa and Mrs. Claus to spend time with the adoring and appreciative children and their parents. Children often surround them and take their hand when they arrive.

Some parents even send the

Photo by Chris Barber

Santa and Mrs. Claus arrive at the West Grove tree lighting by fire truck and are surrounded by adoring children.

Clauses “thank you” notes after their kids have outgrown the tradition.

Santa said recently one child gave him a quarter from his pocket. Another told him to go quickly to Walmart because the store was having a sale.

“If I had a dollar for every kid who yelled ‘Hey Santa,’ [on our arrival] I could retire,” Santa said.

Mrs. Claus said the most common requests are for dolls, Legos, iPhones and bikes. The most unusual request was for a chainsaw.

This year they had several requests for a gum ball machine.

“I don’t know why,” she said.

Increasingly, the clientele for Santa visits has widened to include animals.

Mrs. Claus said she is fine with that – she even embraces it.

“We see all shapes and sizes of dogs. We’ve also had rabbits, goats, cats, miniature horses and even a potbellied pig named Pickle,” she said.

Mrs. Claus said it never seems to get old—just better.

“We’ve seen three generations of families—parents,

children, grandchildren.

You would recognize their names, especially from the Kennett Square area. This year we have been shown photos from previous years when the children were tiny.

The youngest this year was 6 weeks old, and we have five sets of twins at one event,” she said.

The Durynskis, who have served as Santa’s helpers for the better part of three decades, succeeded the late Mike Berzon, who served for almost 25 years in Kennett Square. This year they expanded their service to the West Chester area at the Thornbury Christmas Celebration that included refreshments and vendors.

Mrs. Claus said it was a visit that she would like to make again.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 27, 2023

CHESTER COUNTY PRESS

3A

Chester County Press

Local News and the forensic accounting firm Marcum, LLP, and keeping in close contact with then Chester County District Attorney Tom Hogan and his team of detectives as the investigation got underway.

Over time, the supervisors 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 the township’s full-time manager; and later, Amy Heinrich as the township’s director of finance and human resources.

“Under Scudder’s leadership, we were able to find out what was going on and what we needed to fix as well as receive information expeditiously from Hogan’s office,” Leff said. “Scudder led us to working very cooperatively and closely with the criminal investigation and helped expedite information, so that we could get all of the facts out on the table, and it set the tone for how we would to run the township in subsequent years.”

As the timeline of the investigation took root, the truth became clearer. On May 14, 2019, township Manager Lisa Moore was placed on administrative lead. Later that month, she was terminated.

On Dec. 10, 2019, after an eight-month investigation, the Chester County District Attorney’s Office announced that they arrested Moore for embezzling a total of $3,249,453 from the township, dating back to 2013.

On Oct. 4, 2021, Moore

was sentenced by the Hon. David F. Bortner of the Court of Common Pleas of Chester County and taken into custody on five counts: deception, dealing in unlawful proceeds, forgery, tampering with public records and access device fraud.

Moore is currently serving her second year of a threeto-ten-year sentence at the State Correctional Institute at Muncy, formerly known as the Industrial School for Women in Lycoming County.

‘It was our responsibility’ During a three-hour and 45-minute public meeting on Dec. 17, 2019 at the Red Clay Room in Kennett Square, an estimated audience of more than 500 residents, officials and stakeholders gathered to hear Stevens, Leff and Hoffman explain how Moore could pull off her heist while in their jurisdiction. Several in the audience that night accused them of displaying an egregious lack of oversight and some demanded their resignations.

For months, they were pilloried by local, regional and Philadelphia media; meanwhile, they were caught in the tangled matrix of repairing a township.

“The reality was that there wasn’t anyone else to do it, we were there, so we had to do it, because it was our responsibility,” Stevens said. “That is not to say that I didn’t feel overwhelmed by all of the pieces that were all of a sudden flying around.

It was a difficult time and to be perfectly candid, the

Following Moore’s arrest in 2021, Stevens chaired a meeting that provided full details about the former township manager’s embezzlement of more than $3.2 million over an eight-year period.

beginnings of my tensions with the other board members grew from that point.

“It was a very straining time for all of us, and while we didn’t always see eye to eye, we spent a lot of time talking about what we should do. In trying to achieve balance, we unfortunately took each of our strengths to each other’s weaknesses, but we stayed focused and I believe we did so with personal and professional respect for each other.”

“It was not all smooth waters,” Leff said of his nearly ten years as Steven’s colleague. “There were times when we had policy differences over issues before the board. And then, there was the realization that our long-term township manager was stealing from the township. What everyone should know about those worst of times is that Scudder moved the township forward and helped to lead us eventually onto more stable ground.”

“Although we are members of different political parties and do not always agree, I have come to appreciate

[Scudder’s] profound commitment to his township and the immense contribution to it that he has made over two decades,” supervisor Geoff Gamble said at Stevens’ last board meeting on Dec. 20.

“He does his homework, he is a man of integrity in the original sense of that word, and his actions are aligned and integrated with his beliefs. He possesses an intellectual honesty and forthrightness that at times can cause discomfort even to himself, but always leads to a more vigorous, genuine and worthwhile consensus.”

The last word At the conclusion of the board’s Jan. 18, 2023 meeting, Stevens announced that he would not seek a third term as a supervisor.

“I didn’t want to take on the responsibility for another six years, and I thought it was appropriate for others to be given the opportunity to keep on with this fight,” he said, reflecting on his decision. “I am at a different point in my life professionally and personally. I have

Photos by Richard L. Gaw

On Dec. 17, 2019, Stevens spoke before an audience of more than 500 who gathered at the height of the embezzlement scandal involving former township Manager Lisa Moore.

enjoyed and appreciated being in a place to have some influence on the world around me.”

If there is one remaining item on his agenda that as of now remains unresolved in Stevens’ political career, it is his capacity to forget the difficult moments and forgive those who may have had a hand in creating them.

“It is an issue that I wrestle with,” he said. “I once asked my now dearly departed uncle if he ever forgave anybody. After a moment, he looked at me and said, ‘I always forgive. I just never forget.’

“I have since worked on the question of forgiveness, and it remains a concern.

I try to go on as if those moments are behind me, and sometimes it comes up and it’s not behind me, and then I try to go forward again.”

Prior to calling the Dec. 20 meeting to order – at which he was given the ceremonial role of board chairman – Stevens expressed his gratitude to his wife Mary Claire, his fellow board col-

leagues, township staff and associates, close friends, stakeholders in surrounding municipalities and the residents of the township.

“I started [on the board], knowing that I had wish for the future,” he said. “At this holy time of the year, it is my sincerest and strongfelt wish that we develop the skill to treat each other with gentleness. My biggest personal disappointment as a supervisor was during the Fire and EMS debates, when I did not act with gentleness and respect. I am truly thankful that my colleagues were gentle and kind with me.

“So in conclusion, I am happy to report that no one is locked in the attic today, and no one is identified as ‘the enemy.’ We are all colleagues, and because of this, I am confident in the future of Kennett Township government through this strong and committed board.”

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

Say goodbye to primary care that’s limited to rushed and impersonal office visits.

Say hello to Patina.

Primary care for adults 65+ )\ 8I\QVI ZMTI\QWV[PQX[ KWUM ÅZ[\ AW] OM\ I LMLQKI\ML \MIU _PW [\Ia[ _Q\P aW] W^MZ \QUM >Q[Q\[ IZM ^QZ\]IT IVL QV XMZ[WV I\ PWUM _PMV VMMLML 7]Z MI[a \W ][M IXX SMMX[ aW] KWV^MVQMV\Ta KWVVMK\ML _Q\P aW]Z KIZM \MIU )TT I\ VW M`\ZI KW[\ \PZW]OP UW[\ 5MLQKIZM XTIV[ )^IQTIJTM \W XMWXTM QV +PM[\MZ *]KS[ ,MTI_IZM 5WV\OWUMZa IVL 8PQTILMTXPQI KW]V\QM[

800.476.7992 patinahealth.com

4A

CHESTER COUNTY PRESS

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 27, 2023

Chester County Press

Local News Chester County’s Color 5K raises $110,000 for COPE Program to help fight opioid and heroin abuse The Color 5K has raised nearly $400,000 since 2016 The 2023 Chester County Color 5K, held in October at Exton Park and the Chester Valley Trail, raised $110,000 for the county’s COPE – Community Outreach Prevention and Education – program to help in the fight against opioid and heroin addiction.

County Commissioners Marian Moskowitz, Josh Maxwell, and Michelle Kichline presented a check to Kate Kinsley, the deputy director of the county’s Department of Drug & Alcohol Services (D&A), at a public meeting, saying that COPE is a life-saving program for those suffering from substance use disorder.

COPE provides 24/7 support to overdose survivors and their families at hospital emergency rooms throughout the county.

Trained peer specialists make a personal connection to survivors in the emergency room and encourage them to enter treatment immediately following discharge from the hospital.

The program also supplies overdose prevention and outreach information to first

responders, hospital staff, and families of overdose survivors.

Kichline, whose efforts to address the opioid and heroin epidemic led to the introduction of the Color 5K in 2016, said, “The Color 5K is one of the proudest accomplishments during my years as commissioner because the money raised has made a real difference in the lives of so many in our community.

“The race brings people with shared lived experiences together with those who support the county’s efforts to fight substance use disorders, and it’s that community spirit that has made the Color 5K such a success, of which the COPE program is a direct beneficiary.”

“There’s a banner at every Color 5K race that people sign in memory or support of loved ones or friends, and it’s quite moving to read all the messages because you realize the pervasiveness of substance use disorders,” Moskowitz said.

“But thanks to the generosity of many sponsors, including The John

Gailey and JoEllen Berger Charitable Fund, the nearly $400,000 collected over the years for Chester County’s highly effective COPE program has directly impacted people in crisis and helped guide them towards treatment. So, whether you donated or ran, we thank everyone who participated in the Color 5K.” Chester County also addresses the opioid crisis through its Overdose Prevention Task Force, whose mission is to prevent overdose deaths through a multidisciplinary, coordinated effort between government departments, community organizations, and treatment providers.

The county’s departments of D&A, Health, Human Services, and the District Attorney’s Office lead the Task Force, along with Good Fellowship Ambulance and EMS Training Institute.

Maxwell said, “Chester County is committed to helping people with substance use disorder find support, get into treatment, and lead productive lives.

We have numerous paths to

Courtesy photo

Chester County Commissioners Josh Maxwell (top row, far right), Marian Moskowitz (bottom row, fourth from right), and Michelle Kichline (bottom row, fourth from left) present a check for $110,000, representing the funds raised by the 2023 Chester County Color 5K. Accepting the check are Chester County’s deputy director of Drug & Alcohol Services, Kate Kinsley (bottom row, third from right), Color 5K presenting sponsor John R. Gailey III (top row, second from right), members of the COPE team, and staff from Drug & Alcohol and Advisory Board.

treatment, making it more likely for individuals to find the one that works for them.

Most importantly, Chester County knows that recovery is possible because it happens every day thanks to the work and support of many, many individuals and organizations.”

In 2022, the Chester County District Attorney’s Office and D&A introduced the Law Enforcement Treatment Initiative (LETI),

a joint effort between law enforcement and substance use treatment providers to save lives and reduce crime and recidivism. LETI provides an alternative option to law enforcement for people with substance use disorder who commit lowlevel, non-violent crimes to get treatment instead of punishment. Individuals can also contact a member of law enforcement to ask for a referral or to be connected

to treatment with no threat of arrest or prosecution.

If you or a loved one is struggling with a substance use disorder, help is available. Call the Drug & Alcohol Information and Referral at 1-866-286-3767 or Get Help Now, a 24/7 hotline, at 1-800-662-4357.

To learn more about Chester County’s Overdose Prevention Task Force, visit https://stopodchesco.org/.

Friel and Topmiller honored as top Oxford students Noah Topmiller and Molly Friel were recently honored as the Oxford Rotary Students of the Month.

Molly is the daughter of Rebecca and Brian Friel.

She is a member of the National Honor Society, National English Honor Society, and Student Council, and she also serves as the secretary for Student Government Class of 2024. She is also a student representative for the Oxford School Board.

“Serving on the School Board has taught me that communication is not a spectator sport. I enjoy hav-

ing formal conversations with important people,” she said.

She is part of the varsity softball team where she plays third base, and is also on the softball travel team.

In her free time, she enjoys social media and reading.

Molly has completed an accounting internship for Nannas, Hanes and Schaibo Accounting Firm, and she is also employed as a waitress at Sawmill Grill. She plans to major in quantitative finance when she moves on to college.

She wanted to give a “shout out” to the Oxford teachers, especially the

gifted program teachers.

“The gifted teachers and all teachers should get recognition for all they do for all the students. I appreciate what they did for me,” she said.

Noah is the son of Noelle and John Topmiller. He is on the National Honor Society, The Tri-M Music Honors Society and serves as the president of the National English Honor Society.

He is treasurer of the Class of 2024, is a member of student council, a member of the Marching Band, and co-captain of the swim team. He also plays on the

varsity baseball team. He is on the swim club and tennis club at the YMCA and is also a lifeguard and swim coach. He plans to major in neuroscience in college.

“The teachers and guidance counselors at Oxford prepared me well for my goals and aspirations,” he said.

Courtesy photo

The Oxford Rotary recently honored Noah Topmiller and Molly Friel as the Oxford Rotary Students of the Month. Pictured, left to right, are Topmiller and Friel with her mother, Rebecca Friel.

Unionville High School students build benches in memory of late classmate Unionville High School Technology and Engineering students recently constructed two benches for the Kennett Square YMCA in memory of late classmate Emma Hill.

Unionville High School senior and Hill family neighbor Courtney Brennan was the student lead on this project. She coordinated with the family, created the designs, developed a bill of materials, and led her classmates through the construction project.

“I was approached by our teacher Michael Berkehiser about the bench project in memory of Emma last year, and I wanted to lead the project because I wanted to see it done right for her,” said Brennan.

Brennan took measurements and photos of the

Courtesy photos

benches and hardware outside the UHS athletic offices that these benches were to be modeled after. She then created sketches and scale models on the engineering software and compiled a materials list. The wood and hardware were purchased and delivered, and the uniquely shaped pieces were cut based on the plans along with the top boards being laser engraved.

Brennan and her classmates then sanded, stained, and treated all the wood before assembling the benches.

“We are very proud of Courtney for all of her hard work and leadership on this project,” said Berkeihiser. “We’d also like to offer special thanks to all of the students in the Technology and Engineering Department for helping build and fin-

Unionville High School Technology and Engineering students recently constructed two benches for the Kennett Square YMCA in memory of late classmate Emma Hill.

ish these benches. Our technology and engineering students help out with countless projects each year that benefit our local community.”

The Technology and Engineering Department offers two types of courses.

Students can take traditional one-semester electives

in woodworking, photography, video production, and computer-aided drafting and design (CADD) or choose one or more of the year-long honors-level engineering courses through Project Lead the Way. These are dual-enrollment classes in which students can earn college credits and

gain valuable experience that can be used throughout their lives.

“The benches are a very meaningful project, and I’m glad to have had the contribution of my classmates and help from Mr. Berkeihiser to accomplish this for the Hill family and the Kennett community,” said Brennan.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 27, 2023

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.

Opinion Editorial

23 in 2023 Before the calendar flips to a new month—and a new year!—we thought we’d take a look back at 23 different people, places, things, or events that made a positive difference here in southern Chester County in 2023.

Winter Park at The Creamery: 2023 got off to a fun start with the debut of the new Winter Park at The Creamery, an outdoor skating rink with a surface made of Glice, a synthetic product. This new attraction proved to be so popular that the event returned a month earlier for its second year.

Hospital news, part 1: In the spring of 2023, ChristianaCare unveiled new details about its plans for a neighborhood hospital at the West Grove Campus, formerly the Jennersville Hospital. ChristianaCare will open a neighborhood hospital that includes 10 emergency department beds and 10 inpatient beds, and will offer emergency care, behavioral health emergency care and provide diagnostic capabilities.

Local residents look forward to the opening of this neighborhood hospital and the much-needed health care services it will provide.

The new Kennett Library & Resource Center: For decades, the Kennett Square area needed a larger, modernized library to meet the needs of a growing community. That library finally became a reality this year with the opening of the beautiful, new 33,425-foot building that will serve as a

focal point of Kennett Square for decades to come.

Kennett Square Borough residents support funding for that brand new library: When voters went to the polls in November, Kennett Square Borough residents wisely voted in favor of a referendum to allocate funding from taxes to the brand new library.

Public libraries need this kind of support.

Landenberg Village begins a new chapter: The Landenberg Village, which includes the hotel, the store and an adjacent pump house, was sold this summer to the Fenix Capital Group, a real estate company that specializes in creating innovative and sustainable projects in Philadelphia and southeastern Pennsylvania. We can’t wait to see what this new chapter for Landenberg Village brings.

London Grove Township builds a better mousetrap: This year, London Grove Township received the top prize in PennDOT’s Build a Better Mousetrap Contest during the Pennsylvania State Association of Township Supervisors’ Excellence Awards ceremony. London Grove’s public works crew brainstormed ways to address failing inlet tops and risers to win an award. This is just one example of the good, and often thankless work, that public works employees do on behalf of residents.

The Mushroom Festival: Always a highlight, the Mushroom Festival was great this year. Not only does the Mushroom Festival celebrate Chester County’s top crop,

proceeds from the event benefit the entire community through grants that support local nonprofits.

School projects: Some of the best school districts in the state are right here in Chester County. The official dedication of Avon Grove High School took place in 2023, while the Kennett Consolidated School District moved forward on plans for two new elementary schools to replace aging buildings.

The school buildings won’t make the world a better place; the students who will be educated in them just might.

Centennial: When the 2023-2024 school year got underway, the UnionvilleChadds Ford School District started a series of special events to celebrate the centennial school year that will include a parade, bus tours, an open house, and a Centennial Gala in 2024.

Unionville Community Fair: This year marked the Unionville Community Fair’s 99th year, with a major milestone coming in 2024!

Hospital news, part 2: County officials applauded the news that Penn Medicine plans to buy Brandywine Hospital and deliver important health care services to the western part of the county.

Willowdale Steeplechases: Race day is always a springtime highlight. This year’s event raised funds for clean water and veterinary excellence through donations to the Stroud Water Research Center and The University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine’s New Bolton Center.

Kennett Run: The 2023 Kennett Run was the 34th year for the popular event which, like the Mushroom Festival, raises funds for organizations and nonprofits that serve the community.

Recognizing citizens and businesses that make a difference: Organizations like the Southern Chester County Chamber of Commerce, Oxford Mainstreet, Inc. Oxford Area Chamber of Commerce, and Kennett Collaborative spent another year working on behalf of local businesses and business owners. One of the important things that these organizations do is to recognize the efforts to people who make a difference in the community. The 2023 Southern Chester County Chamber of Commerce Outstanding Citizen was Luis Tovar. We can’t wait to see who the Southern Chester County Chamber bestows the prestigious award on in 2024.

Pia Center at LCH opens: The Pia Center at LCH, which provides dedicated space for behavioral and mental health services at the LCH West Grove location, opened in 2023. The space was purposefully designed to create a safe and welcoming place for patients seeking care.

Patriotism on display: Chester County is the scene of some fine Memorial Day Parades. The most patriotic procession might be the one that takes place in Kennett Square, and they all offer a chance for people of all ages to show their appreciation and respect for those who made the ultimate sacrifice for their country.

Penn Township’s big projects: Two major projects in Penn Township—the new Medic 94 Emergency Operations Center and the Sports Park—took major steps forward this year.

Curtis Mason: Speaking of Penn Township, the aforementioned big projects and many others wouldn’t have been possible without longtime supervisor Curtis Mason.

Mason chose not to seek reelection in 2023 after more than two decades as the chairman of the Penn Township Board of Supervisors. His work has left quite a lasting impact on the township.

Heroes among us: On one eventful day in September, southern Chester County residents got a reminder of how heroic police officers and firefighters are as they go about their day-to-day work.

Local, state, and federal law enforcement officials spent two weeks working tirelessly to apprehend an escaped murderer—and to keep everyone in the community safe. In the morning, Danilo Cavalcante was captured. That evening, firefighters from Oxford and many of the surrounding communities battled a terrible blaze that destroyed three buildings in the heart of downtown Oxford. Thanks to the efforts of the firefighters and two Oxford Borough police officers who alerted sleeping residents about the fire, no one died and there were no major injuries from one of the worst fires in Oxford Borough’s history.

The Oxford Area Neighborhood Services Center: In the aftermath of

the devastating fire that displaced more than 90 Oxford residents, the work of the Oxford Area Neighborhood Services Center was more important than ever.

Lincoln University and Gov. Shapiro: The Lincoln University Concert Choir performed at the inauguration of Gov. Josh Shapiro.

Toward the end of 2023, Gov. Shapiro visited the Lincoln University campus to sign an important piece of education funding legislation as the state finalized its spending plan for the fiscal year.

The Santa Train: Santa Claus was riding the rails and making stops in Kennett Square, Tougkenamon, Avondale and West Grove as part of a first-ever “Santa Train” in southern Chester County. This new event was a welcome addition to the holiday schedule, and we hope it returns in 2024.

State Rep. John Lawrence: As stakeholders and local residents lined up to oppose DCNR’s plans for the Big Elk Creek State Park, State Rep. John Lawrence took a leading role in advocating on behalf of his constituents.

A public meeting to discuss the DCNR plans will take place on Wednesday, Jan. 10. This serves as a reminder that so many of the events and situations and people making a difference in the community in 2023 will be part of the story of 2024. We can’t wait to see how the year ahead will unfold.

Happy New Year!

State Legislature approves bill to protect sexually exploited children and human trafficking victims Pennsylvania Senators Maria Collett (D-12), Cris Dush (R-25), and Kristin Phillips-Hill (R-28) recently celebrated the final passage of their legislation to ensure children who are victims of human trafficking can seek justice and access essential support services.

Under current state law, any minor who is exploited for commercial sex must identify their third-party perpetrator to be considered a victim of human trafficking. The senators’ bipartisan package of

legislation, once signed by the governor, would change that.

“Even though this landmark bipartisan legislation is finally on the way to the Governor’s desk for signature, as lawmakers, we all need to recognize that abolishing Human Trafficking is not a one and done thing,” Dush said. “I was happy to work with Senators Collett and Phillips-Hill on this initiative, but we need to remain focused and continue to work to combat this worldwide crime against humanity.

We will continue our work by

getting SB45 across the finish line to ensure that third party control is not a requirement in any section of our law.”

Sen. Dush’s Senate Bill 44 amends Titles 18 and 23 of the Pennsylvania criminal code to ensure third-party control is never a consideration for access to victim services. The bill passed the PA Senate on Wednesday night and now heads to the Governor’s Office for signature.

“These bills remove barriers to early interventions like counseling, legal assistance,

housing supports, childcare and more to ensure victims of human trafficking have the tools they need to heal while the wheels of justice turn,” Collett said. “I’m heartened by our Senate colleagues’ unanimous support for SB44, and I look forward to seeing our partners in the House complete these efforts by sending SB45 to the Governor’s desk.”

Sponsored by Sen. Collett, Senate Bill 45 eliminates the third-party control requirement to access victim services under the National

Human Trafficking Resource Center Hotline Notification Act (Act 197 of 2012). The bill awaits a final vote in the Pennsylvania House.

This package of bills also expands the authority already granted to officers appearing undercover as minors in Title 18, allowing undercover law enforcement to pose as a third party selling a minor into sexual exploitation.

“The legislature continues to make strides and passing this bipartisan legislation builds on the foundation we – as

Republicans and Democrats – have built to fight human trafficking in every corner of the state,” Phillips-Hill said.

“With this bill, we ensure that criminals are prosecuted and victims are able to get the critical support they need.”

In 2021 alone, 315 human trafficking victims – including 42 minors – were identified in Pennsylvania through the National Human Trafficking Hotline. Pennsylvania had the eighth highest number of signals sent to the hotline in the nation that year.

Longwood’s Christmas Past That Lasts

By Marie-Louise Meyers

back to the Pastwith frosted pink “Thor Carmen” in the Step boldly forth but not entrance while setting out on into the future, but dipping St. Nikolaus Day, shoes shined

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

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

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 ("#%

ready to be filled, the tradition which still gives us a thrill as this walking tableaus with luminaries everywhere, and everything you remember is made new again with Christmas at Longwood. From the time you enter the Visitor Center, the sublime notes of Christmas greet you, and lead you through a labyrinth of hand-painted botanical murals, glowing lanterns lead you to Flower Garden Drive to the Wildlife Tree with brick toy feeders in the primary colors dating back to 1932. The Large Lake makes you think these three dimensional plastic stars fell from the sky one day and landed here while the supersized bulbs in the Small Lake light up the scenery. The Canopy Cathedral tree makes you think childhood has been reinvented with hanging ornaments everywhere.

Longwood’s truck restored as if it roared straight out of the 60’s to land in front of the Pierre du Pont house.

It never gets any better, as if

a magic torch ignited primary colors you come across while you put aside all the pain and anguish outside, even the rush to do everything right as you enter the tunneled expanse with its ever-changing charisma as if ushered into a Fantasy of lights with textural accompaniments to delight the eye and the ear as if the spheres have awakened along with the celebratory rites while a gigantic Christmas tree is carved to allow you to find your way to the Pump House and Bell Tower where a colorcast tree is fully captured in the still water beneath.

The Conservatory is always the heart of the Christmas Message imparted this year through the striking Community trees in the Ballroom with home-made ornaments topping the list with baubles, satin-covered balls, and beads hanging from the decorated trees like those you might have engineered yourself long ago with tinsel as if uniting the separate entries.

Varied Poinsettias decorate the Main Conservatory floor, igniting the surprises of long ago when such a gift was relished with hopes it would bloom again the next year.

How wonderful to get an invitation to a Party in the Music Room, vintage is the only way to describe the decor as you peruse more than just standard fare instead filled with glowing lights and reverie as if a date with the Andrew Sisters singing their hearts out.

Suspended ornaments greet you with amaryllis and birch branches in the Acacia Passageway till awe struck by the chandelier in the Orchard Room. The Silver Room enhanced by the enchantment of silver ornaments while kokedama, an art from is featured with living plants growing in soil balls.

Call it Retro if you like but more like a sight to be seen.

Homemade is the name of the game with ornaments of paper, styrofoam, leaded glass, and garlands placed on man-

telpieces stairs everywhere.

All your bonafide hopes and dreams no longer sidelined, they’re all here in a colorful expanse of yesteryears where imaginative gardeners meet hand in hand with skillful artisans. Live organ music and Olde Towne Carolers put you in the mood when even the railways will take your children’s breath away round a meticulous recreation of Longwood.

Stay awhile as the fountains burst forth in colored lights with music to match the season. Everything you remember of Christmas Past restored again to you like a an authentic dream come true.

Exotic filigree, and yet just a short drive away to enter the Land of Make Believe that lasts forever in your fantasy made real once again or at least until next year’s display portrays something new and perhaps even more entrancing for you, but this is Reverie at its finest which lasts until January Seventh.

6A

CHESTER COUNTY PRESS

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 27, 2023

Chester County Press

In the Spotlight

Section

B

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 27, 2023

Unionville lacrosse highlighted at Chester County Sports Hall of Fame banquet

By Chris Barber Contributing Writer The Chester County Sports Hall of Fame celebrated Unionville High School’s outstanding lacrosse teams through the years as they honored a longtime Unionville lacrosse coach and one of the team’s nationally acclaimed players.

This year they highlighted the sports careers of former Unionville High School lacrosse coach Lee Krug and former Unionville lacrosse player Michelle Doyle at the banquet in Kennett Square’s Red Clay Room on Nov. 11.

Board President Michael Peich was the master of ceremonies.

The county Sports Hall of Fame is a volunteer organization that for the past 15 years has recognized excellent and accomplished athletes from the local area at its annual banquet.

During that time, they have honored figures like Dallas Green, Dick Vermeil, Cathy Rush and Vonnie Gros.

In addition to the two with Unionville connections, Vince Berlnome, Rick Daniels, David Lapp, Kristin Luckenbill, Matt Schaub, Sandy Thielz and the Devon Horse Show earned recognition during this year’s event. Mention was also made of two scholar athletes from Unionville High School Class of 2023 who were named earlier in the year: Riley Angstadt and Tucker Opdahl.

While teaching chemistry at Unionville, Krug created the girls’ lacrosse program in the mid-1970s.

In the course of his leadership there, he coached 1 league championships and had only one losing season. His career record at Unionville was 474-11515. Following his tenure at Unionville, he coached at Octorara, Downingtown and most recently at Avon Grove since 2018.

While at Unionville he also coached boys’ soccer, winning six league titles.

At the presentation of his award, he said he was grateful for the fine players he has coached as well as the support of his friends and family, especially his wife. He said his success would not have been possible without her significant role in caring for the family while he was busy with the teams. Several of his relatives from far away attended the ceremony.

Krug, in a short acceptance speech, said he learned a lot from the quirky quotes of Yankees baseball great Yogi Berra.

Doyle excelled at lacrosse at Unionville High School in the late 1970s, where she was also co-captain of the cheerleading squad. At West Chester University, where majored in physical education, her lacrosse team won the College Conference and Collegiate National championships.

She also played on the national and international lacrosse teams, which won

Chester County Sports Hall of Fame President and master of ceremonies Michael Peich addressed the audience at the banquet.

Photos by Chris Barber

Outstanding athletes from Chester County were honored at the Hall of Fame banquet. Back row from left are Lee Krug, Kristin Luckenbill, Vince Belnome and Rick Daniels; front row from left are Michele Doyle, Sandy Thielz and David Lapp.

the World Cup in 1982.

Doyle taught at Penncrest High School and eventually became the first female athletic director there. She has coordinated lacrosse programs and taught lacrosse internationally.

She also organized the first girls’ lacrosse tournament for the Keystone Games.

As she received her award, she gave credit to great players she has coached as well as out-

standing coaches that came before her, including Gros and Krug.

“He was my coach,” Doyle said of Krug.

The other recipients of awards at the banquet excelled in a variety of sports.

After graduating from Coatesville High School and West Virginia University, Belnome reached the Major Leagues as a member of the Tampa

Devon Horse Show board member Carl “Bunny” Meister described how happy he is that the horse show received the Legacy Award for promoting equestrian competition in the county and beyond.

Susan Yoder Schick, center, daughter of the late West Chester Mayor Dick Yoder, and Jean Rony Yoder, right, Dick Yoder’s widow, join with Sports Hall of Fame past President Julian McCracken to pick the winning ticket in the raffle that supports the Yoder Award, that recognizes two outstanding scholar-athletes in the county each year.

Bay Rays, and now lives in Coatesville.

Daniels is the former football coach at West Chester University, where his team won 86 games.

He is a graduate as well of Springfield High School and West Chester University.

Lapp won championships in track and field as a student at Coatesville High School. At the University of Tennessee, he was a track All-American selection.

Following college, Lapp qualified for the U.S. Olympic team. He coached at Coatesville for 14 years, where his team won numerous medals. He lives in Coatesville.

Luickenbill, a graduate of Conestoga High School, was named All-Conference, All-County, All-Region, Regional All American and Pennsylvania High School Player of the Year. She was a member of he 2004 United States National Team that won an Olympic Gold Medal. While at Dartmouh College she was an NCAA All-American along with many other honors.

Shaub, who received his honor remotely, sent a video stating his gratitude.

He is a graduate of West Chester East High School, where he played football.

At University of Virginia, he was selected ACC first team in football. In his post-football career, he and his wife have supported medically challenged individuals. He lives in Atlanta, Georgia.

Thielz was an outstanding gymnast at Southern Connecticut State College and was a member of the U.S. Training Squad for the Pan Am Games and the 1968 Olympics. She was also a national and international judge for elite competitions. She spent 32 years on the faculty of West Chester University.

The Sports Hall of Fame added a new category of recognition this year. It is called the “Chester County Sports Hall of Fame Legacy Award.” It is dedicated to groups or individuals who promote sports in the county. This year they honored the Devon Horse Show.

Recent horse show board member Bunny Meister told the audience that there is no more deserving group than the show that is associated with its contribution to Chester County.

Chester County Sports Hall of Fame member Keith Smith and his family lead the Pledge of Allegiance at the banquet in the Kennett Square Fire Company Red Clay Room.

2B

CHESTER COUNTY PRESS

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 27, 2023

Chester County Press

Obituaries DR. JOSEPH ALLEN KOBESKI

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.

Our Family Serving Your Family

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

Dr. Joseph Allen Kobeski, age 53, of Kennett Square, passed away suddenly of an apparent heart attack while doing what he loved best—hunting on his farm with friends, on Saturday morning Dec. 9, 2023.

He was the beloved husband of Jena Elise (Iannuzzelli) Kobeski, with whom he shared 14 years of marriage. Born in Chicago, Ill., he was a son of the late Walter Dan Kobeski and Virginia Born Kobeski of Kennewick, Wash.

Although Joe’s loss leaves a void in the lives of those who loved him, his spirit will live on as a reminder to embrace life fearlessly and cherish the moments we have.

Dr. Kobeski graduated from Washington State University where he double-majored in finance and real estate. After a successful career in finance, he decided upon a career change and returned to school to study dentistry. He attended Temple University School of Dental Medicine where he graduated Summa Cum Laude in 2007. He completed his endodontic residency at the University of Pittsburgh in 2009.

Joe was the founder and owner of Keystone Endodontics in Lancaster, Pa. His patients (some of them, anyway!) loved when he sang country songs while performing root canals. He was a member of the American Association of Endodontists.

Joe embraced the phrase “Go big or go home” for vir-

tually all aspects of his life. He was widely appreciated for his ability to bring people together with his mixology skills and gourmet cooking. Joe mastered or became certified in many skill sets, including, but certainly not limited to, scuba diving, downhill mogul skiing, snowmobiling, horseback riding, camping, and home beer brewing. He was an avid hunter and fisherman of all types of wild game and fish and collected just about every piece of equipment known in those sports. While he cherished every expedition, his family farm held a special place in his heart, providing him with countless memories and moments of tranquility.

In addition to his wife and mother, Joe is survived by his two daughters, Elise and Kara, whom he adored, two brothers, Michael Dan Kobeski of Kennett Square and Jim Kobeski and his wife, Sarah of Puyallup of Washington; one sister, Tricia Fotheringham and her husband, Robert of Kennewick of Washington; his inlaws, Ronald and Jane Iannuzzelli of Glen Mills, Pa.; and several nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, if desired, contributions in his memory may be made to a fund which will help support Joe’s daughters and their future education aspirations. https:// www.tmcfunding.com/funds/joseph-kobeski/8987/.

Joe’s life celebration funeral service was held on Dec. 17. Interment will be held privately.

Arrangements are by Matthew Grieco of Grieco Funeral Home & Crematory, Inc. (484-734-8100) of Kennett Square. To view his online tribute and to share a memory with his family, please visit www.griecofunerals.com.

Specializing in Personalized Life Celebration Events at Venues of all kinds

Cremation, Burial, Pre-Planning

TO ADVERTISE 484-734-8100 | www.griecofunerals.com 405 W. State St. Kennett Square, PA 19348

CALL 610-869-5553

405 West State Street is an office only. Sheltering, embalming, and cremation occur at our affiliated funeral home in Quakertown, PA, also owned by Matthew Grieco. Services can be held at our affiliated funeral home or the location of your choice.

&+85&+ ',5(&725< $921'$/( $YRQGDOH 3UHVE\WHULDQ &KXUFK 3HQQV\OYDQLD $YHQXH

ZZZ DYRQGDOHSF RUJ 6W *DEULHO RI WKH 6RUURZIXO 0RWKHU *DS 1HZSRUW 3LNH

ZZZ VWJDEULHODYRQGDOHSD RUJ

8QLRQYLOOH 3UHVE\WHULDQ &KXUFK :ROODVWRQ 5RDG

ZZZ XQLRQYLOOHSUHVE\WHULDQFKXUFK RUJ

.(11(77 648$5(

:(67 *529( DQG 6855281',1* $5($6

:LOORZGDOH &KDSHO 8QLRQYLOOH 5RDG

ZZZ ZLOORZGDOHFKDSHO RUJ

%HWKHO $0( &KXUFK ( /LQGHQ 6WUHHW

ZZZ EHWKHODPHFNHQQVT RUJ %LEOH (YDQJHOLFDO &KXUFK RI .HQQHWW 6TXDUH ( &\SUHVV 6WUHHW

ZZZ ELEOHHYDQJHOLFDOFKXUFK RUJ (SLVFRSDO &KXUFK RI WKH $GYHQW 1 8QLRQ 6WUHHW

ZZZ DGYHQWNV RUJ )LUVW %DSWLVW &KXUFK RI .HQQHWW 6TXDUH : 6WDWH 6WUHHW

ZZZ ILUVWEDSWLVWNHQQHWWVTXDUH FRP *UHDWHU :RUNV 0LQLVWULHV 5RVHGDOH 5RDG

ZZZ JZPLQLVWULHV QHW .HQQHWW 6TXDUH 0LVVLRQDU\ &KXUFK %D\DUG 5RDG

ZZZ NHQQHWWVTXDUHEDSWLVW FRP .HQQHWW 6TXDUH 3UHVE\WHULDQ &KXUFK 6 %URDG 6WUHHW

ZZZ SFNV RUJ 1HZ *DUGHQ 0HPRULDO 8 $ 0 ( ( /LQGHQ 6WUHHW

ZZZ XDPHFKXUFK RUJ 6HFRQG %DSWLVW &KXUFK RI .HQQHWW 6TXDUH 6 :LOORZ 6WUHHW

6W 3DWULFN &DWKROLF &KXUFK 0HUHGLWK 6WUHHW

ZZZ VWSDWULFNNHQQHWWVTXDUH RUJ

$VVXPSWLRQ %90 &KXUFK 6WDWH 5RDG

ZZZ DVVXPSWLRQEYPZHVWJURYH RUJ $YRQ *URYH &KXUFK RI WKH 1D]DUHQH 6WDWH 5RDG

ZZZ DYRQJURYH FKXUFK :HVW *URYH 3UHVE\WHULDQ &KXUFK : (YHUJUHHQ 6WUHHW

ZZZ ZHVWJURYHSUHV RUJ :HVW *URYH 8QLWHG 0HWKRGLVW &KXUFK 1 *XHUQVH\ 5RDG

ZZZ ZHVWJURYHXPF RUJ :LOORZGDOH &KDSHO ² -HQQHUVYLOOH 9LQH\DUG :D\ -HQQUVYLOOH

ZZZ ZLOORZGDOHFKDSHO RUJ /DQGHQEHUJ 8QLWHG 0HWKRGLVW &KXUFK 3HQQ *UHHQ 5RDG /DQGHQEHUJ

ZZZ ODQGHQEHUJFKXUFK FRP &KULVWLDQ /LIH &HQWHU 6DJLQDZ 5RDG 1HZ /RQGRQ

ZZZ &/&)DPLO\ FKXUFK 1HZ /RQGRQ 8QLWHG 0HWKRGLVW &KXUFK 6WDWH 5RDG 1HZ /RQGRQ

ZZZ XPF RUJ

Alleluia When the righteous cry for help, the Lord hears, and rescues them from all their troubles.

Psalm 34:17 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.

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

6W 0LFKDHO /XWKHUDQ &KXUFK ( 'RH 5XQ 5RDG 8QLRQYLOOH

ZZZ VWPLFKDHOSD FRP

Compliments of

6SRQVRUHG E\

)RXON )XQHUDO +RPH RI :HVW *URYH ,QF

&XUWLV 6 *UHHU 6XSHUYLVRU

.X]R )XQHUDO +RPH ,QF

.HHO\ : *ULIILQ 6XSHUYLVRU

)DPLO\ 2ZQHG DQG 2SHUDWHG _ )XQHUDO &UHPDWLRQ 6HUYLFHV /LIH &HOHEUDWLRQV _ 3ULYDWHO\ 2ZQHG &UHPDWRU\ _ 3UH 3ODQQLQJ ZZZ NX]RDQGIRXONIK FRP

TO ADVERTISE CALL 610-869-5553

Landenberg Church United Methodist

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

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

All Are Welcome

P.O. Box 270 Oxford, PA 19363

205 Penn Green Rd. In Historic Downtown Landenberg Landenberg, PA 19350

Meets First and Third Thursday at 6:30p.m.

Nottingham Inn, Nottingham, PA

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

Your newspaper. Your Story ough From first job thr your post-retirement, p has local newspaper whatt you need.

Make the most of it.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 27, 2023

CHESTER COUNTY PRESS

3B

Chester County Press

Obituaries DAVID GEORGE GINN David George Ginn, a resident of Landenberg, sorrowfully and regretfully left this life on Nov. 14, 2023. He was 26.

There are no words to properly express the tremendous loss of this amazing young man.

Born Feb. 8, 1997 in Newark, Del. and raised in Landenberg, David was the son of Vernon Allee Ginn, II and the late Diane Marie Ginn (Delawski).

David was educated in the Avon Grove School District and graduated from Avon Grove High School in 2015.

He continued his education at Penn State University (Delaware County and Great Valley campuses), and earned his degree in engineering in 2020.

David was serious about his work and doing the best job possible for his employers. He dedicated many years to Kendal at Longwood and its residents.

David was extremely intelligent and used this gift abundantly through his hobbies of building and repairing electrical devices and re-building and repairing several of his own automobiles over the years. When not working toward his degree, working at Kendal, or working on an automotive project, David delved into books and podcasts for entertainment and learning. He especially had an interest in historical events and enjoyed a wide range of genres of music spanning a century of time.

Dave, as he was known to his friends and co-workers, was a quiet and humble friend with a huge heart. His friends brought light and joy to his life. With several of his friends, he enjoyed the sport of Airsoft which was always a highlight for any weekend. In earlier years, Dave enjoyed dirt bike riding and following his Dad around learning as much as he could about the mechanics of automobiles, and visiting local museums and attractions with his Mom and brother, Matthew.

David leaves behind a much-loved father, Vernon Ginn, II, his beloved dog, Rose, aunts, Irene Heller (Paul), Dana Ginn Morrison (Chris) and Lorraine Lampert (Steve), an uncle, Ed Delawski (Brighid), and cousins Ryan, Mackenzie, Juliane and Lauren.

He is predeceased by his mother, Diane Ginn and brother, Matthew Ginn, as well as his paternal and maternal grandparents Vernon and Kay Ginn of Landenberg and Tadeusz (Ted) and Joan Delawski of Wilmington, Del. Family and friends gathered on Dec. 15 at Kuzo Funeral Home in Kennett Square for a service of remembrance.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to SpeakUp!, a Pennsylvania-based organization that partners with schools to foster conversations between teens and adults on difficult topics…teaching teens how to have the courage to speak up and ask for help. Donations in Dave’s name may be mailed to: SpeakUp! 80 W. Lancaster Avenue, Suite 220, Devon, Pa. 19333.

Arrangements are being handled by Kuzo Funeral Home of Kennett Square.

BETTY J. TROUT Betty J. Trout, 92, of Oxford, passed away on Dec. 18, 2023.

She was the loving wife of the late Ralph C. Trout, with whom she shared 50 years of marriage at the time of his passing in 1997.

Born in Oxford, she was the daughter of the late Lester Stilwell and the late Golda (Lineberry) Duncan.

Betty was employed by the Gross School Bus Company as a school bus driver. She transported students in the Oxford Area School District and retired with 40 years of service. Betty was known for being an excellent baker. In her spare time, she liked to crochet beautiful doilies. She also looked forward to having a vibrant flower garden each year. She was a longtime member of Bethany Orthodox Presbyterian Church of Oxford.

She is survived by three children, Christine Coomes, wife of Lynn, of Quarryville, Steven Trout, husband of Toni, of Cochranville, and Valerie Hamilton, wife of Victor, of Rising Sun, Md.; grandchildren, Brian Trout, husband of Amanda, of Strasburg, Matthew Felty, husband of Emily, of Delta, Paul Felty, fiancé of Cathy, of Rising Sun, and Alison DeAngelo, wife of Andrew, of Landenberg; and ten great-grandchildren.

She is also survived by a sister, Joanne Almond, of Lancaster, and a brother-in-law, Robert Adams, of Oxford. In addition to her husband and parents, she was preceded in death by her sisters, Mary Adams and Vera Kensinger.

In accordance with Betty’s wishes, services will be private. Private interment will take place in the Oxford Cemetery.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Dewald Funeral & Cremation Services, Inc., Quarryville. To leave an online condolence, please visit www.dewalds.com.

chestercounty.com ONLINE ALL THE TIME NEWS • SCHOOLS ENTERTAINMENT • BUSINESS SPORTS • HOME & GARDEN

BOLESLAW E. BRZOSKA Boleslaw E. Brzoska, of West Grove, passed away on Dec. 12, 2023 while surrounded by his loving family at ChristianaCare Hospital. He was 77.

He was the spouse of Alicja (Dziegielewska) Brzoska, with whom he shared 55 years of marriage.

Born in Peczerzyno, Poland, he was the son of the late Edward and Bronislawa (Grabowska) Brzoska.

He was predeceased by his sister and brother-in-law, Lucja (Miroslaw) Zaionc.

In his youth, Boleslaw attended Gdansk University of Technology. While living in Poland, he served in the Polish Army and after a brief period was promoted to a corporal. He also received two exemplary soldier medals.

He worked for various companies with the last employment at Port Gdynia where he managed operations and logistics of the shipping activities as well as managing compliance documentation for overall transportation regulations.

He immigrated to the United States in 1987 with his wife and daughter.

Boleslaw was an avid fan of tennis and soccer. In his spare time, Boleslaw enjoyed listening to music, reading, and traveling with his wife and family. He visited many places in the United States and abroad. He had a special love for disadvantaged children, the poor, and animals, and will be missed for his generosity toward others who were less fortunate. Boleslaw will be remembered for his quick wit, hospitality, and love of nature and the outdoors.

He was a member of Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Church in West Grove.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by his daughter, Joanna Botial and her husband, Gregory, and his granddaughter, Danielle, who was very precious to him. He is also survived by his sister-in-law, Lucyna Ogieglo and family, his brothers-in-law, Zbigniew Dziegielewski and family, Zenon Dziegielewski and family, John Dziegielewski and family, and Marek Dziegielewski and family, and his niece, Alicja Zmijewska and family.

His funeral mass was held on Dec. 19 at the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Catholic Church in West Grove.

Interment was at St. Hedwig Cemetery in Ewing Township, New Jersey.

Contributions in his memory may be made to Food for the Poor www.FoodForThePoor.org.

Arrangements are being handled by Matthew Grieco of Grieco Funeral Home & Crematory, Inc. (484-734-8100) of Kennett Square. To view his online tribute and to share a memory with his family, please visit www.griecofunerals.com.

Schedule an appointment today.

Discover the R&D Difference Call Today.

610-444-6421 | rdhvac.com

4B

CHESTER COUNTY PRESS

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 27, 2023

Chester County Press

Legals

ESTATE NOTICE

ESTATE OF YVONNE L. MAPP a/k/a YVONNE RENVERSE MAPP, DECEASED. Late of Oxford Borough, 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 LAURA ANDERSON, EXECUTRIX, 305 Hudson Dr., Newark, DE 19711, Or to her Attorney: ANITA M. D’AMICO, D’AMICO LAW, P.C., 65 S. Third St., Oxford, PA 19363 12p-13-3t

INCORPORATION NOTICE

Center, 201 W Market Street, West Chester, Pennsylvania, Schedules of Distribution on Tuesday, February 20th, 2023.

Distribution will be made in accordance with the Schedules unless exceptions are filed in the Sheriff’s Office within ten (10) days thereafter.

Fredda L. Maddox, the hereindescribed real estate will be sold at public on-line auction via Bid4Assets, by accessing URL www.bid4assets.com/ chestercopasheriffsales, on Thursday, January 18 th, 2023 at 11AM. Notice is given to all parties in interest and claimants that the Sheriff will file with the Sale No. 24-1-4 Prothonotary and in the Sheriff’s Office, both located in the ChesWrit of Execution No. 2015-01455 ter County Justice Center, 201 DEBT $149,507.56 W Market Street, West Chester, Pennsylvania, Schedules of DisPROPERTY SITUATE IN KEN- tribution on Tuesday, February 20th, 2023. Distribution will be NETT TOWNSHIP made in accordance with the TAX PARCEL #62-02J-0003 Schedules unless exceptions are filed in the Sheriff’s Office IMPROVEMENTS thereon: a within ten (10) days thereafter. residential dwelling Sale No.24-1-5 PLAINTIFF: M&T BANK Writ of Execution VS No. 2015-06920 DEFENDANT: DOROTHY N. DEBT $135,576.05 CONNELLY & FREDERICK P. MRAZ PROPERTY SITUATE IN KENNETT TOWNSHIP SALE ADDRESS: 9 Woodchuck Way, Lot 9, Kennett Square, TAX PARCEL # 62-02J-0003 PA 19348 / 62-21-3

Agnew Veterinary Reproductive Services P.C. has been incorporated under the provisions of Chapter 29 of the Pennsylvania Business Corporation law of 1988 as a Professional Corporation, as amended.

Lundy Beldecos & Milby, PC, 450 N. Narberth Ave., Suite 200, PLAINTIFF ATTORNEY: KML IMPROVEMENTS thereon: a LAW GROUP, P.C., 215-627- residential dwelling Narberth, PA 19072 12p-27-1t 1322 PLAINTIFF: M&T BANK Sheriff Sale N.B. Ten percent (10%) of the VS of Real Estate purchase money must be paid DEFENDANT: DOROTHY N. at the time of the on-line sale. MRAZ A/K/A DOROTHY C. By virtue of the within mentioned Payment must be made via MRAZ A/K/A DOROTHY N. writs directed to Sheriff Fredda Bid4Assets. The balance must CONNELLY & FREDERICK P. L. Maddox, the herein-described be paid within twenty-one (21) MRAZ real estate will be sold at public days from the date of sale via on-line auction via Bid4As- Bid4Assets. FREDDA L. MAD- SALE ADDRESS: 9 Woodchuck sets, by accessing URL www. DOX, SHERIFF Way, Kennett Square, PA 19348 bid4assets.com/chestercopasheriffsales, on Thursday, January 12p-27-3t PLAINTIFF ATTORNEY: KML 18 th, 2023 at 11AM. Notice is LAW GROUP, P.C. 215-627Sheriff Sale given to all parties in interest and 1322 of Real Estate claimants that the Sheriff will file with the Prothonotary and in the N.B. Ten percent (10%) of the Sheriff’s Office, both located By virtue of the within men- purchase money must be paid in the Chester County Justice tioned writs directed to Sheriff at the time of the on-line sale.

Payment must be made via Bid4Assets. The balance must be paid within twenty-one (21) days from the date of sale via Bid4Assets. FREDDA L. MADDOX, SHERIFF

NOTTINGHAM TOWNSHIP TAX PARCEL #69-3-161 IMPROVEMENTS thereon: a residential dwelling PLAINTIFF: BANK OF AMERICA, N.A. SUCCESSOR BY MERGER TO BAC HOME LOANS SERVICING, L.P. F/K/A COUNTRYWIDE HOME LOANS SERVICING L.P. VS DEFENDANT: MATTHEW J. GIBSON SALE ADDRESS: 329 Heron Drive, Lincoln University, PA 19352 PLAINTIFF ATTORNEY: KML LAW GROUP, P.C. 215-6271322

N.B. Ten percent (10%) of the purchase money must be paid at the time of the on-line sale.

Payment must be made via Bid4Assets. The balance must be paid within twenty-one (21) days from the date of sale via Bid4Assets. FREDDA L. MADContaining 2.001 acres of land DOX, SHERIFF be the same more or less. Being 12p-27-3t a Lot #2 as shown on above mentioned Plan.

Sheriff Sale

of Real Estate

By virtue of the within mentioned writs directed to Sheriff Fredda L. Maddox, the hereindescribed real estate will be sold at public on-line auction via Bid4Assets, by accessing URL www.bid4assets.com/ chestercopasheriffsales, on Thursday, January 18 th, 2023 at 11AM. Notice is given to all parties in interest and claimants that the Sheriff will file with the Prothonotary and in the Sheriff’s Office, both located in the Chester County Justice Center, 201 W Market Street, West Chester, Pennsylvania, Schedules of Distribution on Tuesday, February 20th, 2023. Distribution will be made in accordance with the Schedules unless exceptions 12p-27-3t are filed in the Sheriff’s Office within ten (10) days thereafter.

Sheriff Sale of Real Estate

By virtue of the within mentioned writs directed to Sheriff Fredda L. Maddox, the hereindescribed real estate will be sold at public on-line auction via Bid4Assets, by accessing URL www.bid4assets.com/ chestercopasheriffsales, on Thursday, January 18 th, 2023 at 11AM. Notice is given to all parties in interest and claimants that the Sheriff will file with the Prothonotary and in the Sheriff’s Office, both located in the Chester County Justice Center, 201 W Market Street, West Chester, Pennsylvania, Schedules of Distribution on Tuesday, February 20th, 2023. Distribution will be made in accordance with the Schedules unless exceptions are filed in the Sheriff’s Office within ten (10) days thereafter.

Sale No. 24-1-7 Writ of Execution No. 2012-09196 DEBT $638,783.91

50 feet wide right of way which extends South- westwardly from Ewing Road, at the Southwest corner of Lot #1, which point is measured the 3 following courses and distances along said right of way from its intersection with the Southwesterly side of Ewing Road; (1) South 37 degrees 00’ 12” West 100.00 feet to a point of curve; (2) along the arc of a circle curving to the left having a radius of 125.00 feet the arc distance of 47.65 feet to a point of tangent; (3) South 15 degrees 09’ 46” West 191.70 feet to the beginning point; thence along Lot #1 South 74 degrees 50’ 14” East 310.51 feet to a point in line of land of Earl M. Cole; thence along said Cole’s land South 17 degrees 32’ 42” West 286.42 feet to a point a corner of Lot #3; thence along Lot #3 North 74 degrees 50’ 14” West 298.61 feet to an iron pin set on the Southeasterly side of the aforementioned 50 feet wide right of way; thence along the same North 15 degrees 09’ 46” East 286.17 feet to the point and place of beginning.

Together with the free and common use, right, liberty and privilege in and of the said 50 feet wide right of way as a passageway, watercourse and means of ingress and regress to and from Ewing Road in common with the other owners, tenants and occupiers of the other lots of ground abutting and bounding upon the same an entitled to the use and enjoyment thereof, at all times hereafter forever. Subject however to a pro-portionate part of the expense of maintaining and keeping the said right of way in good order and repair at all times hereafter forever.

BEING THE SAME PROPERTY CONVEYED TO CLARENCE W. GRAY III WHO ACQUIRED TITLE BY VIRTUE OF A DEED FROM CLARENCE W. GRAY III AND KATHLEEN H. GRAY, Sale No.24-1-8 DATED FEB- RUARY 4, 2003, Writ of Execution RECORDED FEBRUARY 25, No. 2017-06901 2003, AT DOCUMENT ID DEBT $235,463.87 10193852, AND RECORDED IN BOOK 5583, PAGE 768, OFALL THAT CERTAIN, MES- FICE OF THE RECORDER OF SAGE, LOT OR PIECE OF DEEDS, CHESTER COUNTY, LAND SITUATE ON, IN THE PENNSYLVANIA. TOWNSHIP OF PENN, COUNTY OF CHESTER, STATE OF BEING UPI NUMBER 58-01PENNSYLVANIA, BOUNDED 0012.020 AND DESCRIBED, PARCEL NO.: 58-01-0012.020 AS FOLLOWS, TO WIT: PLAINTIFF: U.S. Bank Trust All that certain lot or piece National Association, not in its of ground Situate in the Town- individual capacity, but solely ship of Penn, in the County of as Trustee of LSF11 Master Chester and Commonwealth Participation Trust of Pennsylvania, bounded and VS described in accordance with a DEFENDANT: Clarence W. Final Plan prepared for Emiline Gray, III B. Gray by N.M. Lake, Inc., Engineers and Surveyors (Ox- SALE ADDRESS: 727 Ewing ford, PA) dated September 17, Road, Cochranville, PA 19330 1985 and revised January 6, 1986 and recorded as Chester PLAINTIFF ATTORNEY: MANCounty Plan No. 617 as follows, LEY DEAS KOCHALSKI LLC to wit: 614-220-5611

purchase money must be paid at the time of the on-line sale.

Payment must be made via Bid4Assets. The balance must be paid within twenty-one (21) days from the date of sale via Bid4Assets. FREDDA L. MADDOX, SHERIFF 12p-27-3t

Classifieds Miscellaneous: Are you a pet owner? Do you want to get up to 100% back on Vet Bills? Physicians Mutual Insurance Company has pet coverage that can help! Call 1-888-616-1622 to get a free quote or visit insurebarkmeow. com/pasn Replace your roof with the best looking and longest lasting material - Steel from Erie Metal Roofs! Three styles and multiple colors available. Guaranteed to last a lifetime! Limited Time Offer - 50% off installation + Additional 10% off install (for military, health workers & 1st responders.) Call Erie Metal Roofs: 1-844-2909042.

Eliminate gutter cleaning forever!

LeafFilter, the most advanced debris-blocking gutter protection.

Schedule a FREE LeafFilter estimate today. 15% off Entire Purchase. 10% Senior & Military Discounts. Call 1-855-569-3087 Dish Network: Only from Dish- 3 year TV Price Guarantee! 99% Signal Reliability, backed by guarantee. Includes Multi-Sport with NFL Redzone. Switch and Get a FREE $100 Gift Card. Call today! 1-855-335-6094 Prepare for power outages today with a GENERAC home standby generator. $0 Money Down + Low Monthly Payment Options Request a FREE Quote – Call now before the next power outage: 1-888-605-4028 Become a Published Author.

We want to Read Your Book!

Dorrance Publishing-Trusted

by Authors Since 1920 Book manuscript submissions currently being reviewed. Comprehensive Services: Consultation, Production, Promotion and Distribution. Call for Your Free Author`s Guide 1-877-670-0236 or visit dorranceinfo.com/pasn Stroke and Cardiovascular disease are leading causes of death, according to the American Heart Association. Screenings can provide peace of mind or early detection! Contact Life Line Screening to schedule your screening. Special offer 5 screenings for just $149. Call 1-855-672-8674 Safe Step. North America’s #1 Walk-In Tub. Comprehensive lifetime warranty. Top-of-theline installation and service.

Now featuring our FREE shower package and $1600 Off for a limited time! Call today!

Financing available. Call Safe Step 1-833-437-1428

Beginning at a point on the N.B. Ten percent (10%) of the PROPERTY SITUATE IN EAST Southeasterly side of a certain

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

Trailer Repair Truck Acces.

Welding Spray Liners

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

Over 40 Years Experience UHAUL Hitches

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 27, 2023

CHESTER COUNTY PRESS

5B

Chester County Press

Local News A historic speech: The 24th annual Gettysburg Address Contest The recent 24th Annual Gettysburg Address Contest included six middle school students from local West Chester schools. Among

friends and family, the Little Lincoln’s proudly recited the Gettysburg Address from the Lincoln Building balcony.

The event is hosted by the Chester County Community Foundation and the West Chester Historical and Architectural Review Board (HARB). “it’s such a pleasure getting to see these students proudly recite the Gettysburg Address in front of such a large crowd,” said Joe Martino, the event organizer.

Competitors this year included Adwaith Shamjith from Fugett Middle School, Dane Bellucci from Fugett Middle School, and Katie Keeler from Fugett Middle School, who won first, second, and third prizes, respectively. Bellucci was also awarded best costume.

Evan Iyer from Saints Peter and Paul School, Andrew Chen from Fugett Middle School, and Divi Muthukrishnan from Pierce Middle School were recognized for their hard work and dedication.

Judges included Rev. Dr. Richelle Courtesy photos Foreman Gunter, Dr. John The Little Lincolns proudly recited the Gettysburg Noakes, Matthew Roberson Address from the Lincoln Building balcony.

The participants in the 24th Annual Gettysburg Address Contest included six middle school students from local West Chester schools. Pictured are Divi Muthukrishnan, Adwaith Shamjith, Dane Bellucci, Evan Lyer, Andrew Chen and Katie Keeler.

and Dr. Kate Shaw.

Malcolm Johnstone served as the master of ceremonies and announced each student as they appeared on the balcony and stood by to help in case of any slip ups, of which there were none.

State Sen. Carolyn Comitta was present to congratulate each contestant and watch on as they reenacted history.

The Community Foundation offered a thank you all the students, teachers, parents, judges and schools for supporting this event.

The 2023 program was generously sponsored by Delphi Wealth Management Group, Chuck J. Piola, Team Jean Homes, Zukin Reality, and Friends of Carolyn T. Comitta. The event was

hosted and promoted by the Chester County Community Foundation.

The Little Lincoln Gettysburg Address contest encourages youth, families, and friends to become involved in their community and encourages an awareness of local history and events that have shaped our nation.

LCH teams up with Concordville Subaru and Nissan to Keep Kids Warm this winter LCH Health and Community Services joined with Concordville Subaru and Nissan once again to distribute 300 brand new coats for children in the community.

Just in time for the first freeze of the season, LCH staff spent Thursday, Nov. 2 helping children from all over southern Chester County pick out a new coat

in their favorite color. The annual event was held in the LCH West Grove health center, which is also the location of LCH Pediatrics.

“One way we can support the health and well-being of our young patients is to make sure they have access to a warm coat that fits well,” said Dr. Paula Brenn, MD, FAAP, pediatrician at LCH. “Our friends at Concordville

Subaru and Nissan do an amazing job of delivering brand new coats of every size from 2T to Adult XL in a variety of colors. The kids are proud to wear their nice new coats, and we are glad to know that their health is better protected through the winter months.”

Coats are donated by regional auto dealerships and distributed through

many community partners warm and comfortable coat the Auto Dealers CARing in Bucks, Montgomery, this winter. for Kids Foundation New Philadelphia, Delaware, 2023 is the 16th year for Coat Program. and Chester County. Over 50,000 coats are handed out to children in need each year. LCH encouraged their patient families and neighbors in southern Chester County to come to the West Grove health center anytime between 9 a.m. and 7 p.m. to make sure their kids have a

Courtesy photos

LCH Health and Community Services joined with Concordville Subaru and Nissan once again to distribute 300 brand new coats for children in the community.

Stare enters 160th District race Carrie Stare announced her candidacy to represent the 160th State House District as a Democrat earlier this week.

The 160th District includes portions of Chester County and Delaware County.

“After careful consideration and deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities that our community faces, I believe that now is the time for proactive and effective leadership,” Stare said. “I am driven by a genuine desire to contribute to the betterment of our community and the well-being of its residents.”

Stare is running to add her voice in the State House to create a stronger, fairer economy in Pennsylvania,

to protect and strengthen public schools, to vigorously defend access to affordable healthcare that includes women’s choice and reproductive rights, to safeguard the environment, and to ensure no one in the community is left behind.

Stare said, “I believe in fostering collaboration among community members, local businesses, local non-profits, and government entities to develop effective and inclusive solutions. As State Representative, I will work tirelessly to bring people together for the common good.”

Over the past 10 years, Stare has actively participated in various community initiatives, including serving as the president of the

LGBT Equality Alliance of Chester County and as a Westtown Township Parks and Recreation Commissioner, and also working as a Westttown, Thornbury, Birmingham Democratic Committee member.

Chris Pielli, the current Pennsylvania State Representative for the 156th District, proudly endorsed Carrie Stare for the 160th District.

Stare lives in Westtown Township with her partner, Danielle, and her cat, Eleanor. Stare holds a bachelor of arts degree in political science from Millersville University and a Masters in public administration from West Chester University. Learn

Courtesy photo

Carrie Stare announced her candidacy to represent the 160th State House District as a Democrat.

more about Carrie and her campaign by visiting www. carriestare.com or find her on Facebook at Carrie Stare for State Representative and Instagram @ StareForPARep.

6B

CHESTER COUNTY PRESS

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 27, 2023

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.