Chester CountyPRESS
www.chestercounty.com
Covering Avon Grove, Chadds Ford, Kennett Square, Oxford, & Unionville Areas
Volume 155, No. 52
INSIDE
Wednesday, December 29, 2021
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Ethics Commission rejects complaints about Kennett Township manager By Richard L. Gaw Staff Writer
The Pennsylvania Ethics Commission last week tossed out a complaint recently filed by Kennett Township resident Peter Doehring that claimed township manager Art exhibition openings Eden Ratliff’s affiliation with return for Oxford’s First the Longwood Fire Company Courtesy photo Fridays...1B (LFC) was a conflict of interPhoto by Richard L. Gaw The ethics complaint, filed by former Kennett Township est and led to what Doehring The Pennsylvania Ethics Commission last week Board of Supervisors candidate Peter Doehring, claimed was a violation of the tossed out a complaint recently filed against township accused Ratliff of several violations including “conContinued on page 4A
County officials look to boost middle housing options...5A
No tax hike in East Marlborough Township By Monica Fragale Contributing Writer
Gorin’s virtual artwork on display...1B
INDEX Opinion.......................5A Obituaries........2B,3B,5B
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Classifieds..................4B
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manager Eden Ratliff.
Taxpayers in East Marlborough Township will not see any changes to their taxes next year in a budget that also moves major capital expenses to a separate fund. The supervisors approved the 2022 budget and tax rates at their Dec. 7 meeting. Township tax rates are set at 1.05 mils for general taxes, 0.2 mils for open space, 0.183 for the Kennett Library, 0.675 mils for fire protection, and 0.075 mils for emergency services. Also approved was the $52 annual local services tax, the $26.73 annual fire hydrant tax, and the Unionville Village Street Lights tax. A mil is $1 for every $1,000 in assessed value. The 2022 general fund budget of $2.839 million was balanced by transferring more than $200,000
from township reserves to make up for a revenue shortfall, something supervisors’ Chairman Robert McKinstry said will need to be addressed in the future. “We can’t continue drilling down on reserves,” he said. “And I think we definitely are going to need to enhance our revenues … but that’s for next year.” Supervisor Burling Vannote said a capital plan would provide transparency for the taxpayers. “We’re working for our taxpayers, and I think the more transparency we can show with these bigger expenses is important,” he said. Included in the $1.46 million capital improvement/ building fund budget are engineering for the Route 82 and Cedarcroft Road intersection, bridge repairs, the East Locust Lane project, stormwater management, and the township’s capital contribution to the library.
flict of interest.”
Neighborhood Services Center: Lifting up the community for 50 years By Betsy Brewer Brantner Contributing Writer “It’s been a rough couple of years. First COVID then the tornado,” an Oxford resident could be overheard saying at a local market. For those who have lost loved ones to COVID, or those that suffered losses during the recent tornado in the community, that is an understatement. It has been a rough couple of years. And while most of us don’t want to ask what is next, we can feel comfort that the heart of the community, the Neighborhood Services Center (NSC), continues its mission. NSC recently celebrated 50 years of service to the community and one woman remembered it fondly. Connie Winchester, the first director of NSC, emphasized that, “It took partnerships” to start an organization that would provide help to people in the community who needed it the most.
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Connie Winchester, first director of Neighborhood Services Center, celebrated the 50-year anniversary of the organization with Rachel Lebus, the current director.
As Winchester recalled, “It began, when late in the 1960s, the Oxford Area Civic Association, which was the local United Way organization, appointed several of its members to a Human Needs Study Committee. Its purpose was to explore the needs of the community and to see if the local and
county agencies funded by Civic Association funds were responding to community needs and problems. The Rev. T. Norman Mason from St. Christopher’s Episcopal Church, Dr. Frank Wilson, retired Dean of Lincoln University, Helen McNeil, executive secretary of the Continued on page 2A
Linn selected to lead Avon Grove School Board The school board also welcomed two new members during the reorganization meeting By Steven Hoffman Staff Writer Dorothy Linn was unanimously selected to serve as the president of the Avon Grove School Board during the annual reorganization meeting on Dec. 9. Linn, who is starting her third year on the board, also served as its president for 2021. She will be leading one of the more experienced school boards in the
area. The board did welcome two new members who won seats in the November election—Ruchira Singh and Mike Woodin. Two other members, Bill Wood and Rick Dumont, were reelected to four-year terms on the board. Judge Matthew Seavey, who presides over District Court 15-4-04, was on hand to administer the oath of office to Singh, Woodin,
Dumont, and Wood. Once they were officially sworn in, they joined the five other board members who are in the middle of their terms—Linn, Bonnie Wolff, Herman Engel, Jeffrey Billig, and Tracy Lisi. The next order of business was to select a new board president for the coming year, and Linn was the only nominee. When she was selected to again serve as president, Linn thanked her
colleagues. “Thank you very much,” she said. “I appreciate it.” Next, the floor was opened for nominations for the position of vice president. Wolff was the only nominee and was unanimously supported for this leadership position. For the last few years, the Avon Grove School Board has been overseeing the planning and construction of a new high school,
which has resulted in many long regular board meetings and long committee-of-thewhole meetings. The board discussed whether there was a way to schedule all the committee meetings so that the board members would have three meeting nights during a normal month, rather than four meeting nights. A lengthy discussion ensued. There was a concern that combining all the Continued on page 4A
New Garden approves 2022 budget By Richard L. Gaw Staff Writer The New Garden Township Board of Supervisors used their last meeting of the year on Dec. 20 to sign off on several to-dos remaining on their year-end list, discuss three new development projects and field complaints from residents about a persistent odor that is potentially placing their lives in danger. Following several meetings this fall, the supervisors formally adopted the township’s 2022 budget, which projects
its expenditures for the new year at $13,809,770 -- $1.96 million less than its expenditure ledger for 2021. Included in that list is the township’s general fund, which stands at $6,257,240 heading into 2022. Among the largest expenditures expected for 2022 include $2,280,240 earmarked for the Southern Chester County Regional Police Department, $899,400 for highway and road maintenance, $900,000 for highway and bridge construction, $877,260 for the
New Garden Flying Field and $652,000 for the Flying Field’s maintenance shop. In its continuing commitment to preservation and smart-growth development, the township has earmarked $2,590,000 to the development of the Saint Anthony’s in the Hills property in 2022, and will devote $1,339,200 toward its conservation efforts. On the revenue side, the township’s budget is projecting that it will receive $1.4 million in real estate taxes in 2022 and $3.2 million
in local enabling taxes, as well as additional income from business licenses and permits ($195,700), rental fees ($150,000), state grants ($178,500), service charges ($138,800) and public safety charges ($231,100). In other township business The supervisors also heard presentations that introduced sketch plans for the following development in the township: The supervisors applauded the work done by planners
Tom Comitta and Eric Gross of Tom Comitta Associates to present an updated version of the township’s municipal zoning map, which designates several zoning districts, including Airport Development Zone, Business Park; Commercial/Industrial; Highway/Commercial; Residential; Toughkenamon Residential; and Unified Development. The supervisors voted to proceed toward completion of the zoning map that will include minor amendments. Continued on page 3A
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CHESTER COUNTY PRESS
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 29, 2021
Chester County Press
Local News For Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Fox & Roach Realtors, a 26th year of giving back Fox & Roach/Trident Charities, the charitable arm of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Fox & Roach Realtors, is celebrating their 26th anniversary of giving to the communities they serve. This year, as well as in 2020, they held Community Service Weeks encouraging on-site and virtual activities. Each fall, the Tri-State area’s largest real estate brokerage holds the company-wide Community Service Weeks so that sales
associates and employees can spend time at more than 100 local nonprofits helping to paint, repair, stock food banks, and cook meals to help the less fortunate in their communities. “Our community service projects are the heart of Fox & Roach/Trident Charities,” explained Fox & Roach/Trident Charities president Kassie Erb. “This year, while recognizing our 26th anniversary of giving back, the need is even greater during this pandemic. We are proud of the
generosity of our agents and employees and humbled by the resilience of the communities we serve. We are pleased to continue to offer more than the financial support, through volunteering in our communities to assist with much needed projects and tasks.” Fox & Roach/Trident Charities, a charitable foundation sponsored by Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Fox & Roach, Realtors, is committed to addressing the needs of children and families in
stressful life circumstances. Since its founding on June 26, 1995, Fox & Roach/ Trident Charities has donated more than $8 million and 255,000 volunteer hours to over 250 local organizations in the Tri-state area.
Neighborhood Services ...
empty office at 35 N. Third Street, where NSC continues to this day. They began with a starter fund of $1000 to cover six months of rent and the phone. Winchester recalled, “The Health & Welfare Council, churches and some individuals came through and we were in business.” Within a year, the agency became busier and busier. They took steps to incorporate, establishing by-laws and forming a Board of Directors to replace the Operating Committee. They also sought funding to acquire part-time staff to supplement the volunteers. Donna Sims, formerly a nurse in Dr. Holcombe’s office, became a field worker and started home visiting and hours were extended to 9 a.m. to noon and 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Meanwhile, Winchester was hired as a part-time director. Her own children were in school and she never went back to teaching in Oxford, which she had been doing after her husband, Professor Dick Winchester, took a position at Lincoln University in 1961. County agencies used a second room to deliver their services right here in Oxford, which was Family Service, Homemakers Service Children’s Services, Bureau of Vocational Rehabilitation, Planned Parenthood, Legal Aid, and County Board of Assistance. These agencies came to NSC in Southern Chester County, in a very part-time manner, in the beginning. The Center also had a food pantry. Decades later, there has been growth in programs and space. The NSC board purchased the house to 35 North Third Street, which was thanks to an unexpected estate gift from a Ware Presbyterian resident in 1997. It was decided to connect the two houses
with new construction, and NSC sought a block grant fro the Chester County Office of Housing and Community Development. Many Directors came and went, each one moving the agency forward, each an integral part of the community. Winchester admitted she had no idea what the center would blossom into. Fast forward to April of 2020 when Rachel Lebus took over as director of NSC. “It’s not easy to introduce yourself to a community during a pandemic,” Lebus said. The first people she talked to, of course, were Connie and Dick Winchester. She met the two of them in the park, wearing masks, and listening to the history of the center. Lebus explained, “It was very enjoyable to me. Winchester is one of first people I met. I sat with her and Dick at the park. We wore masks and I talked with her about the history of the agency. She came prepared. It’s incredible what she has done. One thing I find interesting all these years later is the crux of who NSC is really hasn’t changed from the beginning. It continues to be the central location for people to access services in Oxford. That connection with other agencies, being able to offer space for other agencies to come from the county is vital to this area. Their plan was unique and forward thinking. They were able to start something that continues, and hasn’t dramatically changed. It says something about the way programs were designed. It was done intelligently and strategically.” Lebus continued, “It was challenging, to say the least, coming in during a pandemic. I felt like it was important as a newcomer to make con-
nections. In the middle of a pandemic that was difficult to do. Just over the last couple of months I’ve been able to meet people in person.” When she came into her position, there was a demand for everything because so many local families were being hurt by the pandemic and the economic shutdowns. “One of the early things I did was to increase the cap of how much we could give to people. I had to adjust that to better serve the community,” Lebus said.“We were seeing a slow increase at first, then needs spiked in late summer to early fall, and then tapered off again. In June of this year, we contacted the Department of Community Development. We had a contract with them for emergency rental and utility needs. They gave us more funding.” Then a tornado hit the community, severely impacting Wiltshire Development. Lebus contacted the Oxford Chamber of Commerce and the two worked together with the community to help those in need. Lebus said the community was very generous and they are still in the process of distributing those funds. “I learned that in this community people are more concerned with their neighbor than themselves,” she explained. She said some insurance companies were slow in responding, and she has found that people don’t really like to ask for help. “It created an interesting challenge for us,” she said. Lebus is still playing catchup. She is focusing now on planning fundraising events, building relationships with the staff and the community. “So much just got pushed back,” she said. Things have not really gotten calmer. She explained that over the last several months things have picked up. “We started the emergency rental program and had to hire people to help with that. That is taking a lot of time, energy and effort,” she explained. “We had moments here and there to work with the staff. We hired a food pantry manager in June to dedicate a whole person to that role. We have plans to expand hours so people who
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Civic Association, and I, a mom at home with two preschool children, were given the charge to carry on this study.” The committee was expanded to include Don Savitch, a local businessman, Betty Harris, Home/School Coordinator for the Oxford School District, Jim Syphers from the Lincoln University Institute of Community Affairs, Barbara Sheetz, a local resident already coordinating some volunteer transportation, plus several representatives from community churches. It really took a village. And in case you haven’t noticed, Oxford and the surrounding area really cares about its people. As the committee progressed, professional back-up was provided by the Chester County Health & Welfare Council and the Chester County Assistance Office. The group met for about a year and a half in the community room of Commonwealth Bank at the corner of Third and Hodgson streets. They focused on daycare, affordable housing, health care, education, transportation, employment concerns and invited resource people knowledgeable in those areas to meet with them. Ironically, those same issues continue to be a priority today. Their goal was to provide a “directory of services” for people in the community seeking answers to their questions. However, it quickly became apparent that a directory would not be sufficient. That was when the idea of a coordinating center emerged, specifically a place to call or to go to with questions. Eventually, they located an
Courtesy photo
Pictured are sales associates and employees of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices, Fox & Roach’s Kennett Square Office who conducted a donation drive for YoungMoms of Chester County, collecting diapers.
Courtesy photo
Rachel Lebus, the executive director of Neighborhood Services Center.
work can come in. We’d like to expand to evenings and Saturday. There is a misconception that people that use our services aren’t working. They are. Most people that come in have some sort of job. Minimum wage is some of the problem, but it’s the cost of housing, and childcare that really hurt the family budget.” According to Lebus, “Chester County is an incredibly expensive place to live. There is also very little to no public transportation in this part of the county.” NSC provides funding for rent, mortgage, and utilities. Lebus said the biggest challenge now is they need donations. “The community has been incredibly generous throughout COVID. We get checks every day, but the money quickly goes out,” she explained. “The community is extremely generous, I hope they can continue to give as they have.” Lebus feels that most businesses that have survived are going back to normal. But she is aware that is subject to change, along with new variations of COVID. “The challenge is finding time to ponder the nature of non-profit work. At the end of the day, I would say the answer is fundraising events, but we must do that with new safety restrictions. How do we get people together safely? Will we lose donors if we are not safe enough?Amidst all of this, valuable staff members are retiring,” she said. Both Lebus and Winchester
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mentioned the departure of Carla Brown. Brown is retiring after 34 years of dedication to NSC. “Her experience with NSC is invaluable. She is a valuable staff member. She has such in-house institutional knowledge of people. Her departure will leave a huge hole. I’m so glad I had some time to learn from her,” Lebus said. Lebus confirmed they will do some internal shifting and will be hiring a program director. “We are plugging along with our emergency assistance program. We will get our second round of emergency rental assistance funds. We have to find out what the ‘new normal’ is,” she said. Always at the top of the list of concerns is confidentiality. “Nothing is more important than the confidentiality of our clients,” Lebus added. “Our work isn’t always visible, by design we have to be respectful of people’s privacy. Sometimes that can give the impression we are not continuing to work hard to serve our community. We quietly do it but it must be done while respecting privacy.” Everyone in Oxford and the surrounding area has their own story of how they helped or were helped by NSC. Churches, businesses, individuals wishing to remain anonymous, nearly everyone has been comforted by the healing hands of NSC at one time or another. The mission of NSC is a noble one. They empower people experiencing a crisis or sudden hardship by providing direct assistance and/or connecting those people to available resources. If you want to be reminded of the goodness of people, a community, and the world, check out the NSC website at www.oxfordnsc.org. No matter who you are, where you are in your life, your status, or financial resources, chances are good that NSC can brighten your world this holiday season or in the coming year.
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 29, 2021
CHESTER COUNTY PRESS
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Chester County Press
Local News New Garden budget... Continued from Page 1A
Nick DeSanctis, the current owner of the now-vacant W.L. Gore facility on 380 Starr Road, introduced a concept plan that would construct a warehouse adjacent to the existing facility that he estimated would be a minimum of 80,000 square feet in size. The space, which would feature high ceilings and easy access routes to Route 41, could be used as a storage unit to accommodate the raw materials and finished goods for a potential new tenant or tenants. DeSanctis said he would conduct a traffic study on the property and work with the township on any setback issues related to the proposed repurposing of the property. “What we’re seeing in the marketplace is that manufacturing is coming back to the U.S. in a big way, and one of the things [manufacturers] are looking at is increased storage,” said DeSanctis, who told the board that he and his associates are beginning to speak with potential tenants in order to accommodate their needs. “That’s why we’re getting ahead of this, spending the time and money to really see what we can build and what the township would be in favor of.” “We recognize that the building as it is today does not lend itself to a tenant today,” he added. “You have to be able to sell them this particular dream -- [one that includes a large warehouse] -- because that’s what they need right now.” Representing his clients, attorney John Jaros presented a plan that would develop
a 3.6-acre property at 8970 and 8974 Gap Newport Pike, which is located in a commercial and industrial district of the township. The plan proposes to develop the property as a car wash and storage facility on adjoining lots. The property would be serviced by public water and public sewer and will have a shared access with the CVS pharmacy located near the proposed site. Supervisor Patrick Little questioned the proposal to build a self-storage unit in the township, particularly in close vicinity to two other recently-opened self-storage units. “If there is one thing [the township has] besides mushrooms it is self-storage units,” he said. “With all due respect to the guys making the decision in this, maybe you could come up with a better idea that will save money, rather than invest in a self-storage unit.” Jaros said that while he is appreciative of Little’s sentiment, his clients have done their market research and determined that there is a demand for self-storage units. He insisted that his clients will continue to do their market research in developing their plan. Developer Doug White presented a sketch that laid out plans for a residential development at 977, 985 and 988 Baltimore Pike that would create 26 twin housing units and be accessible by Baltimore Pike and include emergency exits and consideration for trails and open space. “We’re trying to find a balance here where we can do a very great undertaking with a very great product and keep
it affordable in a way that’s amenable to the township,” said White, who estimated that each town home would be priced between $400,000 and $500,000. The supervisors said that the planned development will still need to agree with township zoning ordinances. Residents address odor issue in the township Representatives from the Landenberg Hunt Homeowners Association aired their collective grievances to the supervisors about the consistent and overwhelming odors that have drifted into their homes from nearby mushroom composting businesses in the area of Starr and Penn Green roads. Referring to the entire township, Ron Lupo, who has lived in the development since 1997, said that poor air quality – such as what permeates into the air from the processing of mushroom compost from neighboring farms – presents a serious threat to the safety of nearby residents. He said that these businesses are not only breeding grounds for safety violations, the residue from their processing units – filled with hydrogen sulfide, ammonia and methane – is causing corrosive damage to the exterior of automobiles and eating away at essential household items such as air conditioning units, that have forced many residents to replace several times over the past few years. “It seems to me that [these companies] rule the roost,” Lupo said. “If they can monitor this air, they can contain this air too, but instead, they would rather see us as citizens pay through our pockets.
Photo by Richard L. Gaw
New Garden Township Manager Ramsey Reiner presented plaques honoring the service of outgoing supervisors Patrick Little, left, and Michael Loftus at the board’s Dec. 20 meeting.
“It’s affecting your township,” he added. “It is not just my problem. It is not just Landenberg Hunt’s problem, it is New Garden Township’s problem, and someday you will pay for this. Why should we be paying for their mistakes?” Landenberg Hunt resident Jerry Houck asked the supervisors why the township has not visited these mushroom companies as representatives of area residents, in an effort to encourage them to address the odor issue. “What are we doing as a township? Why doesn’t anyone go down there and call this out?” Houck asked. “This has been going on for 28 years. This is not the first time you have heard this. This is a joke, and all I’m [asking] is when are you guys going to do something? If nothing is done here, what is our recourse?” The supervisors responded by saying that the township is restricted in their ability to enforce safety regulations on these businesses because of what is contained in
Pennsylvania’s Agriculture, Communities, and Rural Environment (ACRE) Law. Enacted in 2005, the law provides a useful, timely and cost-effective means for farmers burdened by ordinances from municipalities that illegally inhibit farming practices to initiate a process through which the ordinance or action can be challenged and invalidated in court. Under the law, a farm owner or operator can challenge an ordinance if the local ordinance inhibits current or future normal agricultural operations for his or her farm or other farms within the municipality. “The state law currently supersedes New Garden Township ordinances,” said supervisor Steve Allaband, who added that Pennsylvania has the least stringent laws for farming than any other state in the U.S. “We cannot impose, enact or adopt any ordinances that are more stringent than what the state law says.” “If you’re looking for changing the law in the state
of Pennsylvanian, it’s not going to come from one township,” said board chairman Pat Little, who speculated that 80 percent of mushroom farm owners in the community comply with safety laws. “We could support a grass roots effort, but unless we have a clearer path and direction on how to do this – which we don’t and we have tried – [we have no course of action]. “If we wanted to get this done, we would have to change the law at the state level.” Little and Loftus honored The township also recognized outgoing supervisors Pat Little and Mike Loftus for their service on the board. They will be replaced by new supervisors Ted Gallivan and Troy Wildrick, who were elected to their posts in November and will begin their six-year terms in January. To contact Staff Writer Richard L. Gaw, email rgaw@chestercounty.com.
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CHESTER COUNTY PRESS
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 29, 2021
Chester County Press
Local News Pa. Mushroom farmers are ‘harvesting more’ innovation at this year’s Pennsylvania Farm Show Pennsylvania’s numberone cash crop will be on full display at the 2022 Pennsylvania Farm Show, that will take place from Jan. 8 to 15, in Harrisburg. ‘Harvesting More’ is the theme of the 2022 show, and that’s exactly what you’ll find—more mushrooms! There’s a lot to love about mushrooms, including: More Education Ever wonder how mushrooms are grown? Visit the Mushroom Booth area, where you’ll be able to walk through the life cycle of a mushroom, from the compost wharf to the kitchen table. Along the way, there will be interactive experiences, like a live mushroom growing display and information on the composting process, mushroom varieties, ways to use mushrooms in the kitchen, and more. Researchers from Penn State will also be on hand with microscopes and more where visitors can learn about the science behind mushrooms. More Innovation Once you learn how mush-
Ethics Commission... Continued from Page 1A
state’s Public and Employee Ethics Act. Doehring, who lost in his bid to become a township supervisor earlier this year, also claimed that Ratliff’s affiliation with LFC served as a major influence in the township’s 2-1 board vote in 2021 that ended the township’s fire and EMS partnership with Kennett Fire Company (KFC) and made LFC the primary fire, rescue and EMS response service to the township. In its decision, the state Commission said that Doehring had presented no evidence of his claims. Doehring began his blistering attacks on Ratliff at the end of a live and virtual Board of Supervisors meeting on Dec. 15, when during a public comment session, he read a statement that questioned the validity of the township to consolidate its fire and EMS services, Ratliff’s influence on the decision and his “questionable practices,” and the township’s inability to take on “any meaningful actions to investigate, much less substantively address, any of these issues.” In his statement, Doehring said that he was concerned
rooms grow, make sure to visit the Mushroom Food Booth where you can not only find your mushroom favorites, but you can try something new! Shredded Port Nachos: These are ‘nacho’ father’s nachos! This super snack includes 100% shredded Portabella mushrooms in a tangy barbeque sauce topped on crispy tortilla chips with cheese and drizzled with sour cream. No meat. No soy. All flavor! Original Breaded Mushrooms: The best-selling mushroom item since 1978, with more than 6000 pounds prepared annually, the Original Breaded Mushroom are crispy, whole white mushrooms breaded in 100% vegetable oil, and served with ketchup and ranch dressings on the side. Blended Mushroom Burger: Voted the number-one best food at Farm Show 2019, the Blended Mushroom burger is a national trend that has consumers blending everything from burgers, tacos, meatloaf and more with their favorite mushroom. A mix of 70 percent ground beef
that Ratliff – as well as supervisors Richard Leff and Whitney Hoffman, who both voted in favor of the reorganization -- were making misleading claims about how using LFC as its exclusive provider of fire, rescue and EMS services would save money and improve public safety. Doehring then compared Ratliff’s alleged misdeeds to those of former township manager Lisa Moore, who was convicted and sentenced on Oct. 4 to a minimum of three years in a state prison for stealing $3.2 million from the township. “Just last week, we listened to a detailed analysis of the many ways that Lisa Moore deceived these same supervisors, all of whom expressed regrets that they had not acted earlier on their suspicions of questionable practices, and then enumerated the astronomical costs of cleaning up the resulting damage,” Doehring said. “Now once again our supervisors seem to be ignoring the warning signs of another township manager, whose own questionable practices are leading to ever-increasing costs that will soon be passed on to taxpayers.” Doehring’s statements against Ratliff on Dec. 15 were just the beginning.
and 30 percent chopped mushroom, topped with American cheese on a roll served with lettuce, tomato and onion on the side. RoRo’s Mushroom Salad: A longtime favorite, this 100% gluten free, vegetarian option is a bowl full of marinated mushrooms with chopped onion, celery, carrots and olives in olive oil and vinegar seasoned with salt, pepper and parsley. Cream of Mushroom Soup: Loaded with mushrooms made with real milk, butter, onions, vegetable broth, and seasonings, this soup is the quintessential mushroom dish.
Around that time, he sent a letter to every township household outlining his “serious concerns about rising costs, degrading services, conflicts of interest, and the supervisors’ continued inaction,” and created a website – www.openkennett.org. – that further illuminates his claims against Ratliff. Additional accusations against the township manager Doehring saved his deepest dive against Ratliff for his ethics complaint to the State Ethics Commission. In it, he referenced the PA Public and Employee Ethics Act’s definition of “conflict of interest,” and aligned it with his claims that Ratliff repeatedly used the authority of his office and confidential information received through his affiliation with the LFC. During the 2021 Fire/ EMS Reorganization between Feb. 3 and April 15, Doehring wrote, the township’s supervisors voted to implement a series of recommendations, “primarily developed and promoted by Ratliff,” that resulted in a major reorganization of how fire and EMS service would be delegated throughout the township, which had up to the reorganization been divided between LFC and KFC. “As a result of this reorganization, LFC ended up with a monopoly of EMS, and a monopoly of fire dispatching,” Doehring’s complaint said. “This reorganization significantly advantaged LFC financially while significantly disadvantaging KFC. Subsequently, Ratliff was intensively involved with conducting purportedly unbiased research and leading supposedly good faith negotiations involving KFC, LFC, and the six-municipality Kennett Fire and EMS Regional Commission.” Doehring’s ethics complaint further said that between Oct. 20, 2020 and
More Nutrition Did you know one Portabella mushroom has more Potassium than a medium size banana? Mushrooms are a superfood; filled with host of vitamins and minerals, has little to none of the things you don’t want like calories, fat, sugar, salt, or gluten. Back at the Mushroom Booth, walk through the kitchen to learn the benefits of mushrooms, the varieties, how to cook them, and much more.
pizza, in your salads, or in your burgers, they are Pennsylvania grown. In fact, nearly 60 percent of all mushrooms grown and harvested in the U.S. are done right here in Pennsylvania. The industry is an economic engine in the state, with a total annual economic impact of more than $1.1 billion and supporting more than 9,300 people and more than $313 million in wages each year. The Pennsylvania mushMore Opportunity room industry is made up Chances are, if you of a host of people who eat mushrooms on your love what they do. Make
Linn... Continued from Page 1A
committee meetings on one night might result in a marathon session that wouldn’t be beneficial for the public or for board members. Billig also expressed concerns about the pub-
April 15, 2021, Ratliff, his wife Gabrielle and brother became regular members of LFC volunteer staff, which Doehring said Ratliff did not let KFC, the township, the Commission or the general public know about until April 15, 2021, when the reorganization was finalized by the township. Doehring’s complaint also pointed to the hiring of Ratliff’s wife Gabrielle to become the LFC’s new executive secretary in late October, the job posting of which stated “This position involves a high degree of confidential information to which the employee will be held accountable for not disclosing.” “This has placed her in a key role as a major [township] services vendor which has derived significant pecuniary advantage from the Fire/EMS reorganization recently engineered primarily by Ratliff himself,” the ethics complaint read. “The hiring of Ratliff’s wife transpired without LFC, Ratliff, or Ratliff’s wife informing [the township or the Commission] in advance.” “Ethical concerns” Doehring was not alone in his complaints about Ratliff. In her two-page letter to the State Ethics Commission on Dec. 15, Kennett Borough Council President Brenda Mercomes raised “ethical concerns” regarding Ratliff’s connection to the Kennett Fire and EMS Regional Commission, an inter-municipal fire and emergency services
lic comment sessions, and whether members of the public would have the best opportunity to share their views before a board decision is made if all the committee meetings take place on the same night. Ultimately, the board decided that public comment sessions would need to be
group that serves six area municipalities and three fire companies in overseeing the funding for operating and capital expenses for the fire companies and EMS services. Specifically, Mercomes addressed Ratliff’s continuing influence on the Commission, given that he had once been an alternate member “but no longer serves in that role (at least during the immediate relevant period of this inquiry,” Mercomes wrote. “However, he continues to attend the Commission meetings on behalf of [Kennett Township], to provide support to the Commission, including on behalf of the township, and to advocate for the Commission to take certain positions through his role as township manager,” Mercomes wrote. Kennett Township’s response
sure to visit ‘The People Behind the Product,’ a photo series to showcase the diversity of people and jobs in the industry and ‘You Have a Place Here,’ video where members of the mushroom industry talk about why they love what they do. The Pennsylvania Farm show is the largest indoor agriculture exposition under one room in the country. The event showcases the quality and breadth of the state’s agriculture industry and the people who make it thrive.
one of the items addressed at an upcoming board retreat. A joint board committee meeting is slated to take place on Jan. 11 as the board begins its work in the new year. To contact Staff Writer Steven Hoffman, email editor@chestercounty.com.
us are safer and more secure as a result.” The statement also said that the leadership of LFC and KFC are “ecstatic” with the result of the township’s reorganization of its fire, rescue and EMS. “Cooperation and camaraderie between [LFC and KFC] is also dramatically increased, along with more cross training and support,” Leff added. “Nevertheless, we continue to monitor this new regional response plan to ensure its continued effectiveness in a cost-conscious manner.” In further addressing Doehring’s and Mercomes’ claims, Cuyler Walker, the chairman of the Kennett Fire and EMS Regional Commission, said that Ratliff had in fact fully disclosed his relationships with LFC; that neither Ratliff nor his wife have authority to allocate or distribute Commission funds to LFC; that Ratliff’s analysis, research and recommendations as a township manager were constructive and beneficial; and that none of the members of the Commission found Ratliff’s pro bono relationships with LFC constitute a conflict of interest. “I encourage everyone to be cautious in believDoehring’s ing Peter irresponsible allegations,” Leff concluded. “Keep in mind, the Pennsylvania Ethics Commission wasted no time in dismissing his entire complaint.”
In a statement now available on the township’s website, the township refuted Doehring’s attacks on Ratliff, calling them “irresponsible allegations.” “The Kennett Township Supervisors solidly support Eden Ratliff against these unfair and personal attacks,” Leff said. “Plus – Eden’s expertise in policy-making and consensus-building combined with his years of volunteering, training and certifications in fire and EMS matters were invaluable in making sure everything in the Regional Fire and EMS To contact Staff Writer Response Plan was done in full compliance with regula- Richard L. Gaw, email tions and procedures. All of rgaw@chestercounty.com.
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 29, 2021
CHESTER COUNTY PRESS
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Chester County Press
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Opinion Editorial
New The start of a new year is once again upon us, and just as we welcomed having the calendar flip from 2020 to 2021, now we all eagerly anticipate the arrival of 2022. We should. The start of a new year offers new opportunities for new beginnings, and who couldn’t use a new beginning after all the
challenges of the last two years? As Henry Ward Beecher once said, “Every man should be born again on the first day of January. Start with a fresh page.” Speaking of blank pages, country singer Brad Paisley once said, “Tomorrow is the first blank page of a 365page book. Write a good one.”
Plenty of wise words have been spoken or written about beginnings, and we can all take some inspiration from them, too. Johann Wolfgang von Goethe once offered this thought: “Whatever you do or dream you can do – begin it. Boldness has genius and power and magic in it.” Eleanor Roosevelt said, “With the new day comes
new strength and new thoughts.” Walt Disney said, “The way to get started is to quit talking and begin doing.” And Alan Cohen, the writer, observed, “Do not wait until the conditions are perfect to begin. Beginning makes the conditions perfect.” So whatever it is that you’ve been waiting to begin, we hope you go ahead
and begin it, whether you get started on January 1 or not. We can all strive to be better in 2022. As Benjamin Franklin said, “Be at war with your vices, at peace with your neighbors, and let every new year find you a better man.” Alfred Lord Tennyson wrote, “Hope smiles from the threshold of the year to come, whispering, ‘It will be
happier.’ And novelist Mehmet Murat ildan wrote, “In the New Year, never forget to thank to your past years because they enabled you to reach today! Without the stairs of the past, you cannot arrive at the future!” We would like to wish you all a healthy, happy and peaceful New Year.
A new year, A new beginning By Bryan Golden The New Year is a time of resolutions. It’s a time when people commit to making a change in their life. Losing weight, changing jobs, saving money, making money, a new relationship, getting in shape, going back to school, or giving up smoking, are just some of the goals people set for themselves on Jan. 1. Although it’s possible for anyone to make a change or a new start, it takes determination, commitment, and persistence. A new goal must be your own. You have to really want it. Without a
burning desire, your motivation will fade quickly. It’s virtually impossible to make a change due to external pressure. You may agree to what someone else wants you to do, but it’s very difficult to succeed without an internal drive. So, in order to successfully make a change or reach a goal, you have to make sure it’s what you really want. Don’t start off on the wrong foot by making excuses as to why you will probably fail. If you don’t truly believe you can do it, you won’t. People who do this will say
something like, “I’ll try to do it, but …” Or you may hear, “I tried before and it didn’t work but I’ll give it another go.” Before you begin, make sure the only things you are telling yourself are, “I can,” “I will,” and “I will do whatever it takes.” A new beginning is a threestep process. You have to first know what you want, formulate a plan to achieve it, and then take the necessary action to get it. Setting a specific goal is essential. The more detailed the better. If you want to lose weight, how much and by when? If you want a new job, what will it
be and how much will it pay? If you want to save money, how much and how often? Next, you need a plan. Just like your goal, your plan must be as detailed as possible. If you are going to lose weight, what will be your menu each week? Are you going to go on a specific diet, cut out certain foods, or just eat less? For finding a new job, what will be your strategy? Do you need a new resume? Will you look on line, in the classifieds, use an employment agency, network, cold call, or all of these? If you want to save more money, in what areas will you cut back? Do
you know where your money is going? Have you created a budget? You want your plan to be doable. The smaller the steps are, the more likely you will be to succeed. Any time you feel a step is too big, break it down further. It doesn’t matter how small each step is so long as you keep going and never give up. Losing 20 pounds may feel overwhelming, but dropping two pounds a month doesn’t seem too bad. If you keep at it for 10 months, you will reach your goal. Saving $3000 might appear beyond reach, but cutting back $9
a day on family spending is manageable. Finally, you must take action. The best goals and greatest plans will go nowhere without action. The reason you divided your plan into small sections is so it would be easy to take action, one day at a time. All you have to do is keep going, until you achieve your goal. Bryan is the author of “Dare to Live Without Limits.” Contact Bryan at Bryan@ columnist.com or visit www. DareToLiveWithoutLimits. com Copyright 2021 Bryan Golden
Chester County Challenge – creating more ‘missing middle’ housing With the highest median housing cost in Pennsylvania, county officials are advocating for alternative lower-cost housing models With housing prices increasing faster than incomes in Chester County, county leaders are looking for ways to create more homes affordable to middleincome and smaller families. Chester County’s population has quadrupled over the last 90 years to 534,000 residents currently, and growth is expected to continue. As a result of the county’s appeal
and tremendous growth, it has the highest median housing value in Pennsylvania at $375,000. With the county’s median household income of about $100,000 per year, many people in the county’s workforce cannot afford to live in the county. The county has an ample supply of single family detached homes, and the county funds development
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of affordable housing for lower-income families and seniors. The big gap falls in the middle. “Chester County’s existing housing stock does not currently meet the evolving needs caused by growth and changes in our demographics,” said Chester County Commissioners’ Chair Marian Moskowitz at a recent housing forum, hosted by the Chester County Planning Commission and Department of Community Development. “Our residents need homes that are affordably priced and that fit into the community. The number of one- and two-person households is increasing, which leads to more demand for smaller homes that are affordable for people living alone or on a fixed income.” Chester County has anticipated the issue, and its Comprehensive Plan, Landscapes3, addresses these changing needs. “As home prices continue to rise, more Chester County families are burdened by the amount of their paycheck
that it takes to pay the rent or mortgage,” commented Commissioner Josh Maxwell at the forum. “Municipalities in every part of the county will need to address housing challenges and ensure vibrant, safe, inclusive, and healthy neighborhoods. We are especially focused on one component – ‘Missing Middle’ housing – which can help municipalities address these important challenges.” Libby Horwitz, the Chester County Planning Commission’s housing and economic planner, said filling the “Missing Middle” housing gap will require housing types such as duplexes, twins, cottage court/courtyards, and conversions of commercial and industrial properties into residential apartments, among other options. These properties will look like other housing types in the neighborhood but have more units within those structures. “What we’re talking about is housing diversity and choices. We’re not talking about not building apart-
ments or single-family homes, which are integral parts of our housing supply, we’re just talking about increasing housing options so people can continue to live in Chester County as their needs and incomes might change,” Horwitz explained. Chester County is borrowing ideas from Montgomery County that our neighboring county has deployed to deal with the issue. Sarah Peck of Progressive New Homes pointed to three examples, including the Danley twin homes in Lower Merion Township, the Arbor Mews and Arbor Heights Townhomes in Norristown. “We can be affordably priced and meet a growing market need,” Peck said. Nannette Whitset of South Media Neighbors United provided her firsthand experience working alongside Peck and rallying her community to allow zoning for the Media Walk development in Nether Providence Township, Delaware County. “You have to trust the developer and believe in
the project and just stay the course,” Whitset added. Chester County Commissioner Michelle Kichline noted, “Housing options that can meet the needs of all household sizes and income levels are essential, and it is up to all parties – public and private – to work together to achieve this. In Chester County we have the plan and the partnerships in place to make it happen.” A forthcoming report from the Chester County Planning Commission will make recommendations to expand housing options that will meet the needs of the “Missing Middle.” They include zoning for these kinds of housing, encouraging infill development, and providing county resources to encourage this kind of construction. At the same time county officials say they must balance resident concerns about density, loss of green space and potential traffic congestion against the need for this kind of housing by Chester County families.
Chester County commemorates National Homeless Persons’ Memorial Day Event reinforced County’s commitment to prevent all homeless deaths Chester County joined communities across the nation in remembering those who died in 2021 without a place to call home. Just before sundown on what would be the longest night of the year, members of the Chester County community gathered in front of the Historic Chester County Courthouse to hear the names slowly read of the 13 individuals who passed away while living on the street. A pause of silence between each name allowed for a time of contemplation. Chester County Commissioners’ Chair Marian Moskowitz read from a proc-
lamation on behalf of herself and fellow Commissioners Josh Maxwell and Michelle Kichline, saying, “In the season of generosity and sharing, Chester County citizens are encouraged to commit themselves to exhibiting compassion and concern for all, particularly during the winter months that pose extreme hardship for citizens who are less fortunate and without homes.” The proclamation noted that on any given night 500 people in Chester County experience homelessness, and that hunger and homelessness remain a serious challenge even in Pennsylvania’s wealthiest
county. Rob Henry, administrator of the Chester County Partnership to End Homelessness, hosted the event, saying, “We must all work together to strive to create a community where no one’s life ends in homelessness. “We are not here today to wallow in despair,” Henry said. “We are here to remember the joy and love these people and all people bring into the world and recognize the importance and potential of every human life.” Henry said it is important to recognize that without the tireless effort of Chester
County’s non-profit community providers, community members, and elected officials, many more people may have died this year while homeless. “As we remember those who have died,” said Henry, “we must also strengthen our resolve to work for a world where no life is lived or lost in homelessness.” This was the first year the annual memorial was hosted by the recently created Chester County Partnership to End Homelessness, a new program reflecting a reinforced commitment to helping the most vulnerable among us find or keep a sta-
Courtesy photo
Thirteen candles represent 13 individuals without homes who passed away in 2021 in Chester County.
ble place to live. lessness who needs help, If you know of the Partnership asks you to someone experiencing home- please call 2-1-1.
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WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 29, 2021
Oxford Arts Alliance exhibition openings return to First Fridays The Oxford Arts Alliance will return to First Friday exhibition openings in the new year. The Oxford Arts Alliance is a non-profit arts organization that strives to cultivate community through the arts. First Fridays in Oxford have grown substantially more popular over the last few years, thanks to the hard work and dedication of Oxford Mainstreet Inc. First Fridays bring together hundreds of people from the region into the heart of Downtown Oxford for a street fair with vendors, music, and booming business activity. The Oxford Arts Alliance, which once had exhibition opening receptions on the third Friday of each month, has decided to return to debuting exhibitions on First Fridays due to the popularity of the town event. The Oxford Arts Alliance is located at 38 S. Third St. in Oxford. The first exhibition of the new year will be, “Oh, the Places You’ll Go!” This is a solo exhibition by Jayne Bourke. Known predominantly for beautiful landscapes and plein air paintings infused with light and color, Jayne’s work reflects the joy of the land, sea, and inter-
Courtesy photos
The Oxford Arts Alliance will return to First Friday exhibition openings in the new year.
esting people around her. Her work often appears in regional exhibits and competitions throughout the Mid-Atlantic region, the United States, and internationally, winning awards and recognition for her distinctive style and subjects. The opening reception will be from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. on First Friday, January 7, 2022. The last day to view the exhibition will be January 28, 2022. The opening reception welcomes the public, collectors and art enthusiasts and is free of charge. Visitors to the opening reception on Jan. 7 and those who come to enjoy the show through Jan. 28 will also have the excit-
ing opportunity to win a surprise, original painting by Bourke created especially for the show. She hopes that raffle entries and “Donate What You Will” contributions will encourage visitors to help support the Oxford Arts Alliance recover some of its lost revenue from the pandemic, with 100 percent of all raffle donations will go directly to the Oxford Arts Alliance. The surprise painting Jayne has created for this drawing is a framed, original piece that is representative of an iconic and familiar area location. The random drawing will be held on January 29, 2022. In addition, The Oxford Arts Alliance has an open
call for photography artists in the regional area to respond to our theme of “Outside-the-Box.” This exhibition will not be juried. Artists should respond to the call with photography outside of or beyond what is considered usual, traditional, or conventional. The “box” in question represents the limits of what is usually thought or done. Photography can be taken traditionally or digitally manipulated using computer software. In-person drop-off only: Saturday, January 29, 10 to 2 p.m., or Tuesday, Feb. 1, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information, visit https://www. oxfordart.org/call-for-
The first exhibition of the new year will be, “Oh, the Places You’ll Go!” This is a solo exhibition by Jayne Bourke.
The opening reception will be from 5 pm to 8 pm on First Friday, January 7, 2022.
artists. For inquiries, contact Caitlin Daugherty
at art@oxfordart.org or call 610-467-0301.
Gorin brings his virtual artwork to life at the Milburn Stone Theatre Gallery On the heels of record sales for digital artwork by Christie’s auction house earlier this year, “nonfungible tokens” or NFT’s as they are known in the art world, have become the talk of the town. While this art medium is currently trending, the idea of using digital technology to create artwork is an old concept for Cecil County’s Brandon Gorin. Gorin, who has worked in traditional art mediums his entire life, began utilizing digital tools more than ten years ago. This work has culminated into his most recent exhibition, the Four Letter Word Series, that is now on display at the Milburn Stone Theatre Gallery on the North East Campus of Cecil College. “When I started the digital stuff, I decided to make 10,000 images, and I made a rule for myself that there would be a two-hour span between the creation of
Courtesy images
Brandon Gorin, who has worked in traditional art mediums his entire life, began utilizing digital tools more than ten years ago. This work has culminated into his most recent exhibition, the Four Letter Word Series, that is now on display at the Milburn Stone Theatre Gallery on the North East Campus of Cecil College.
each image. Different ideas and projects came from that concept as I slowly worked towards 10,000 images,” said Gorin, who is currently at more than 12,400 images. Gorin’s electronic tool of choice is an iPhone, which he uses to take photographs, manipulate the images, color and draw each piece of his artwork, and design the final project. While he has used traditional computers to create some of
The Milburn Stone Theatre Gallery hours are Monday to Friday, from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.
his works, Gorin enjoys the convenience of having his phone handy at all times so he can create while riding the bus or sitting in a café. “A lot of people care about the phone part of my digital art, and for me, it is just the tool in my pocket that I can reach. I am not unlazy. If you are going to give me the easiest tool, I am going to use the easiest tool in any situation,” said Gorin. To create the elements for his work, Gorin primarily uses three apps. The first is Glitche, which turns images into pixelated, glitched-out works of art that can be saved as GIF files. The second is Photo Leap that can recreate every subtle aspect of actual film, with great attention to general accuracy, color separation, skin tones, and grain texture. The third is Layout by Instagram. This tool is ideal for making collages and allows for creating a one-of-a-kind layout by remixing photos. Layout’s smooth, intuitive process gives users complete creative control. But using a cellphone presented Gorin with many challenges, such as storage
space for high-resolution pieces. He developed several workarounds with the aid of the Cloud, where he fills up the phone’s memory and then uploads the files. Another pitfall is Glitche does not allow for the export of high-resolution images, so Gorin places the piece in Photo Leap to digitize the image. From his thousands of images, Gorin began creating collages through layers. Because the iPhone is backlit by nature, Gorin was able to include vibrant bright colors. During this phase of his artistic development, the iPhone presented another challenge as it would
only allow for five layers at a time. That number has increased to 12 layers for the newer generations of iPhones, but Gorin worked around this problem by saving each group as a new layer, permitting more layers to be added. “These creations became good enough that I said, ‘I can print these out and display in different exhibits,’” said Gorin, who takes more than three months between creating the piece and having it printed. His Four Letter Word Series is of older work as he is currently working on landscapes. Gorin, the assistant technical director for the
Milburn Stone Theatre in North East, Md., has included a sticker machine in his current exhibit where visitors can insert 50 cents and take home a tiny version of the show. While this exhibition is non-virtual, Gorin’s art is ordained for the virtual world where he posts all his creations on Instagram under his name. The Four Letter Word Series Exhibition runs through May 2022. The Milburn Stone Theatre Gallery hours are Monday to Friday, from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. To learn more about the Milburn Stone Theatre, call the box office at 410-287-1037.
While this exhibition is non-virtual, Gorin’s art is ordained for the virtual The Four Letter Word Series Exhibition world where he posts all his creations runs through May 2022. on Instagram under his name.
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CHESTER COUNTY PRESS
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 29, 2021
Chester County Press
Obituaries ELEANOR ROSE MCMULLEN
CHARLES ROBERT MCMULLEN
Eleanor Rose McMullen, 86, of Lancaster and formerly of Oxford, passed away on Dec. 7 at Lancaster General Hospital. She was 86. She was the wife of Charles Robert McMullen, whom she married on Aug. 20, 1955. They shared 66 years of marriage. Born in Washington, D.C., she was the daughter of the late John R. and Minnie Powell Walsh. Eleanor was a member of the First Baptist Church in Oxford. She was also a founding member of Oxford Home and School Association and a girl scout troop leader. She is survived by her husband; three children, Lori Jayne McMullen of Russellville, Lt. Col. Michael Sean McMullen of Alexandria, VA and Timothy Brian McMullen of Lancaster; seven grandchildren, Matthew Ryan McMullen, Cody Brian McMullen, Ashley Nicole Russell, Dean Robert McMullen, Abigail Angelicque McMullen, Johanna Rose McMullen and Michaela Elsa McMullen; and great-grandchildren. Memorial services will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Jan. 15, 2022 at the First Baptist Church, 552 Market St. Oxford, PA 19363, where friends and family may visit from 10 to 11 a.m. Interment will be in private. In lieu of flowers, Eleanor has requested a random act of kindness for someone. Arrangements are being handled by the Edward L. Collins, Jr. Funeral Home, Inc. in Oxford. Online condolences may be made at www.elcollinsfuneralhome.com.
Charles Robert McMullen, 92, of Lancaster and formerly of Oxford, passed away on Dec. 19 at Lancaster General Hospital. He was the husband of the late Eleanor Rose Walsh McMullen, whom he married on Aug. 20, 1955. They shared 66 years of marriage. Born in Oxford, he was the son of the late Harry James and Nora Mae Keith McMullen. Charles was a member of the First Baptist Church in Oxford and the Oxford Athletic Association. He was a veteran of the U.S. Army, serving in the Korean War. He was employed with the U.S. Postal Service. Charles was a boy scout troop leader with Troop 44 and received the Silver Beaver Award. He is survived by three children, Lori McMullen of Russellville, Lt. Col. Michael McMullen (Denise) of Alexandria, VA and Timothy McMullen (Teresa) of Lancaster; seven grandchildren, Matthew McMullen, Cody McMullen (Amanda), Ashley Russell (Zach), Dean McMullen, Abigail McMullen, Johanna McMullen, and Michaela McMullen; five great-grandchildren; and two brothers, Harry James McMullen of Rehoboth Beach, Del. and Joseph Barry McMullen of Quarryville. Memorial services will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 15, 2022 at the First Baptist Church, 552 Market St. Oxford, PA 19363, where friends and family may visit from 10 to 11 a.m. Interment with full military honors will be in Oxford Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, Charles has requested to do a good deed. Arrangements are being handled by the Edward L. Collins, Jr. Funeral Home, Inc. in Oxford. Online condolences may be made at www.elcollinsfuneralhome.com.
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Alleluia Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.
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NOTTHINGHAM, PA
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P.O. Box 270 Oxford, PA 19363 Meets First and Third Thursday at 6:30p.m. Nottingham Inn, Nottingham, PA
Landenberg Church United Methodist All Are Welcome 205 Penn Green Rd. In Historic Downtown Landenberg Landenberg, PA 19350
610-274-8384 Services Every Sunday • 9:00 am
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 29, 2021
CHESTER COUNTY PRESS
3B
Chester County Press
Obituaries
Additional Obituaries on Page 5B
HELEN C. HOLCOMBE
EMILY DAVIA DEPIPPO
Helen C. Holcombe of Oxford died at Jenner’s Pond Retirement Community on Dec. 17 at the age of 95. Born on May 30, 1926 in Oxford, she was the daughter of the late Theodore Cochran and Essie Cochran. She was the wife of the late Dr. Guy T. Holcombe, Jr. of Oxford. She is survived by one son, Guy “Tip” Holcombe (Vicki) of North East; one daughter, Lynn Johnston (Dave) of Elkton; five grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by two sons, Curtis Holcombe (Lee) of Rising Sun, and Chester Earhart (Ruth) of Quarryville; one grandson, Joshua Holcombe (Katie) of Rising Sun; and one great-grandson, Mason Holcombe of Rising Sun. Funeral services will be private. Interment will be in the Oxford Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Willow Tree Hospice. Please make checks payable to Amedisys Foundation, 3854 American Way, Suite A, Baton Rouge, LA 70816. Funeral arrangements are being handled by the Edward L. Collins, Jr. Funeral Home, Inc., in Oxford (www.elcollinsfuneralhome.com).
Emily (Millie) DePippo passed away unexpectedly at Maris Grove Retirement Community on Dec. 19. She was 92. Emily is survived by a son, Joe, and his wife, Nancy, who reside in Brevard, North Carolina, and a son, Richard, and his husband Doug, who reside in Santa Fe, New Mexico. She is preceded in death by her husband, Augie, her brother, Angelo Davia, and sisters, Valentina Caputo and Agnes Davia, and her parents, Eusebius and Emilia Davia. Millie was born and grew up in Clifton Mills, Pa. and graduated from Kennett High School in 1946. She then attended and graduated from Goldey-Beacom College. She worked for the General Electric Company until she married Augie. Millie was proud of her work for the General Electric Company and enjoyed her time there. In 1953, Millie married Augie DePippo. Millie and Augie were partners with brother and sister-in-law Bob and Peggy DePippo in the Brown Derby Restaurant, which was first opened by Augie’s parents in 1934. They worked together for 40 years and made the Brown Derby a popular local restaurant. The Brown Derby was owned and operated by the DePippo family for 60 years. Millie worked hard in partnership with her husband at the restaurant and was always there to support her sons, Joe and Rich, as they grew up through their college years. Millie was a loving wife, mother, aunt, great aunt and friend. Millie loved everyone and she had a positive attitude about life. She was an avid animal lover her entire life. She enjoyed her time with her sons, their spouses and her extended family who all visited her frequently at Maris Grove. After selling the Brown Derby in 1994, Millie and Augie retired. In 2000 they moved to the Spruce Creek Community in Summerfield, Fla. During her retirement she was a volunteer at the soup kitchen operated by St. Theresa’s Catholic Church in Belleview, Fla. Millie was an avid golfer and enjoyed playing with Augie and friends over many years. She was proud of her hole-in-one at the Kennett Square Golf and Country Club. She enjoyed traveling with Augie and together they took many trips around the U.S. and internationally. In October 2013, they moved back to Pennsylvania and into the Maris Grove Retirement Community in Glen Mills, Pa. Millie and Augie were married for 62 years at the time of Augie’s passing in 2016. Millie enjoyed her time with the many friends she made over the years at the Maris Grove. She became an avid Rummikub player and enjoyed playing each night after dinner with her friends right up until her passing. She was an active member of the Maris Grove Italian American Club and always enjoyed the many shows and activities at Maris Grove. Services were held on Dec. 27 at the Kuzo Funeral Home in Kennett Square and a funeral mass followed at St. Patrick Church. Burial was at the Saint Patrick Cemetery in Kennett Square. Millie loved animals so in lieu of flowers, contributions in her memory may be made to Brother Wolf Animal Rescue (bwar.org) or Espanola Valley Humane Society (espanolahumane.org). To view Millie’s online tribute and to share a memory with her family, please visit www. kuzoandfoulkfh.com.
ELIZABETH BAILEY Elizabeth (Betty) Marcella Bailey of Glen Mills, Pa., peacefully passed away on Dec. 19 while holding the hand of her husband of 70 years. Betty was born on July 13, 1930, to the late William and Margaret Flanagan. After graduating from Elkton High School in Elkton, Md., Betty worked as an administrative assistant for the Chrysler Corporation in Newark, Del. She married Rodger F. Bailey, with whom she shared 70 years of devoted life and love. Betty shared her gifts of service, love, and hospitality with friends, neighbors, and family. Anyone who entered Betty’s circle was embraced and cared for. Betty cherished her card-playing friends and neighbors. She enjoyed cooking and sharing meals, flower arranging, listening well to friends and family, and supporting her grandchildren in their artistic, athletic, and musical endeavors. In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her sisters, Margaret Schnatz, Alice Aurig, Sandra Longenecker; her brother, William Flanagan; and her daughter, Lucinda Bailey. She is survived by her beloved husband, Rodger; her children, Gwen DiMarco (John), Franki Burch (Chuck), Faith Dupuis (Vic), and Rodger B. Bailey (Becky); as well as her sisters Clara Lear and Mary DiVirgilio. Her legacy is beautifully reflected in the lives of her 14 grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren, and many beloved nieces and nephews. God’s gracious love has been shared through Betty’s life of service – “Aunt Betty,” and “Mom,” and “Nan.” The entire family is deeply grateful for the extraordinary care and service of each and every caregiver who poured love into Betty and Rodger’s lives. There will be a memorial service planned at a later time. In lieu of flowers, a donation in Betty’s honor can be made to Meals on Wheels of Chester County, 404 Willow Brook Lane, West Chester, PA 19382. Please designate the Kennett Square branch. Rodger and Betty have truly appreciated their faithful service. Arrangements are being handled by the Kuzo Funeral Home in Kennett Square. Please visit the online memorial by going to www.kuzoandfoulkfh.com.
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 5pm 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.
4B
CHESTER COUNTY PRESS
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 29, 2021
Chester County Press
Legals
ESTATE NOTICE
Estate of Helena Madeline Mack, Late of Oxford, East Nottingham Township and Chester County, PA, LETTERS TESTAMENTARY on the above Estate have been granted to the undersigned, who request all persons having claims or demands against the estate of the decedent to make known the same and all persons indebted to the decedent to make payment without delay to Veronica Lynn Pidge, 214 Wilson Mill Road, Oxford, Pennsylvania, 19363, Executor. 12p-15-3t
ESTATE NOTICE
ESTATE OF MARY ELIZABETH BOWES a/k/a MARY ELIZABETH COLGAN, DECEASED. Late of Lower Oxford Township, Chester County, PA LETTERS TESTAMENTARY on the above Estate have been granted to the undersigned, who request all persons having claims or demands against the estate of the decedent to make known the same and all persons indebted to the decedent to make payment without delay to MARY ELIZABETH COLGAN a/k/a MARY BETH COLGAN, EXECUTRIX, 3431 Verner St., Drexel Hill, PA 19026, Or to her Attorney: ANITA M. D’AMICO, D’AMICO LAW, 65 S. Third St., Oxford, PA 19363 12p-15-3t
ESTATE NOTICE
Estate of Anita C. Merson, Late of Kennett Township, 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 Anita Reilly, 148 W. State Street, Suite 102, Kennett Square, PA 19348, Executrix, Or Attorney: David B. Myers, Esquire, 148 W. State Street, Suite 102, Kennett Square, PA 19348. 12p-22-3t
PUBLIC AUCTION NOTICE:
DEStorage.com Newgarden, located at 710 Newark Rd Landenberg, PA 19350, Will be holding a Public ONLINE Auction at www.ibid4storage.com Closing on January 11th, at 10 AM. The following units will be sold because of nonpayment of rent pursuant to the Pennsylvania Self Service Storage Facilities Act. Auction bidding and additional information about the contents, including photographs, is available on www.ibid4storage.com. Sale and payment will take place at the storage facility. Containing: Furniture, household items, totes, clothing, and boxes Jessica Thompson Unit #1044 Kenneth Church Unit #3300 Pedro Almony Unit #1052 DEStorage.com Newgarden reserves the right to withdraw any storage unit from sale or cancel the sale without prior notice. 12p-22-2t
ESTATE NOTICE
ESTATE OF GARY L. CLANTON, DECEASED. Late of New London Township, Chester County, PA, LETTERS TESTAMENTARY on the above Estate have been granted to the undersigned, who request all persons having claims or demands against the estate of the decedent to make known the same and all persons indebted to the decedent to make payment without delay to LOIS J.
CLANTON, EXECUTRIX, c/o William J. Gallagher, Esq., 17 W. Miner St., West Chester, PA 19382, Or to her Attorney: WILLIAM J. GALLAGHER, MacELREE HARVEY, LTD., 17 W. Miner St., West Chester, PA 19382 12p-29-3
NOTICE OF DISSOLUTION
Pursuant to the requirements of section 1975 of the Pennsylvania Business Corporation Law of 1988, notice is hereby given that WARREN RUBIN ESQ., P.C., a professional corporation, is currently in the process of voluntarily dissolving. Baratz & Associates, P.A., 550 Pinetown Road, Suite 410, Fort Washington, PA 19034 12p-29-1t
INCORPORATION NOTICE
Eagle Peak Alliance has been incorporated under the provisions of the PA Nonprofit Corporation Law of 1988., Bielli & Klauder, 9 West 3rd Street, Media, PA 19063 12p-29-1t
PUBLIC NOTICE
Due to the current public risk factors, the Elk Township Board of Auditors 2022 Reorganization meeting will not be conducted “in person”. The Board has arranged for a joint telephone conference call to be conducted as an audio meeting on Tuesday, January 4, 2022 at 12:00 PM. The same “in person” meeting protocols established for public meetings, participation and voting will be followed. The Board will record the meeting and the full and complete record will be available upon request and posted on the Township’s website. Public participation is encouraged, and participants may submit questions and comments in advance for the Board to read to all attendees. To participate in the meeting, please dial the toll-free number (844)-855-4444 and enter the access code 240500. Anyone wishing to submit questions or comments must notify the Township Secretary at 610255-0634 no later than 24 hours prior to the meeting. If you are a person with a disability and wish to participate in the meeting and require auxiliary aide, service or other accommodation, please contact the Township Secretary at 610-255-0634 or at elktwpchester@gmail.com to discuss how Elk Township may best accommodate your needs. Terri Kukoda, Secretary/Treasurer 12p-29-2021
PUBLIC NOTICE
The Elk Township Board of Supervisors will hold its 2022 Reorganization Meeting on Monday, January 3, 2022 at 7:00 PM at the Elk Township Building, 952 Chesterville Road, Lewisville, PA 19351. If you are a person with a disability and wish to attend the meeting and require auxiliary aide, service or other accommodation to participate in this meeting, please contact Terri Kukoda at 610-255-0634 to discuss how Elk Township may best accommodate your needs. 12p-29-1t
ESTATE NOTICE
ESTATE OF ROBERT D. SHADEL, DECEASED. Late of West Nottingham Township, Chester County, PA LETTERS TESTAMENTARY on the above Estate have been granted to the undersigned, who request all persons having claims or demands against the
estate of the decedent to make known the same and all persons indebted to the decedent to make payment without delay to RUTH A. SHADEL, EXECUTRIX, 59 Sand Hill Rd., Nottingham, PA 19362, Or to her Attorney: ANITA M. D’AMICO, D’AMICO LAW, P.C., 65 S. Third St., Oxford, PA 19363 12p-29-3t
PUBLIC NOTICE
PUBLIC NOTICE is hereby given that the Board of Supervisors for Penn Township, 260 Lewis Road, West Grove, Chester County, Pennsylvania, will conduct a conditional use hearing on Wednesday, January 19, 2022 at 5:00 p.m. at the Penn Township Building to consider the Application of Enrique Pallares for the property owned by Pallares Family Holdings, LLC located at 377 & 378 Hood Lane, West Grove, PA 19390, being tax parcel #58-3-17 and #58-3-16 in the RS Residential Suburban Zoning District of Penn Township. The Applicant seeks conditional use approval pursuant to Section 1515, of the Penn Township Zoning Ordinance of 2019, for a Cottage Brewing, Distilling, or Winemaking Industries use accessory to agricultural or as a primary agricultural or industrial use. The Applicant proposes to retain the existing single family detached dwelling, garage and accessory buildings and to change the use of the existing barn to a tasting room as an accessory use under Section 1501, B, 9 and Sections 1511 and 1515. All persons wishing to participate in this hearing are invited to be present. Any person with a disability requiring a special accommodation to attend this hearing should notify the secretary at (610) 869-9620, as early as possible but not later than five (5) working days prior to the hearing. The Board of Supervisors will make every reasonable effort to provide reasonable accommodations. McMichael, Heiney & Sebastian, LLC, R. Samuel McMichael, Esquire, Winifred Moran Sebastian, Esquire Solicitor for Penn Township 12p-29-2t
Sheriff Sale of Real Estate
By virtue of the within mentioned writs directed to Sheriff Fredda L. Maddox, the herein-described real estate will be sold at public on-line auction via Bid4Assets, by accessing URL www. bid4assets.com/chestercopasheriffsales, on Thursday, January 20th, 2022 at 11AM. Notice is given to all parties in interest and claimants that the Sheriff will file with the Prothonotary and in the Sheriff’s Office, both located in the Chester County Justice Center, 201 W Market Street, West Chester, Pennsylvania, Schedules of Distribution on Monday, February 22nd, 2022. 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. 22-1-13 Writ of Execution No. 2021-01130 DEBT $155,897.11 PROPERTY SITUATE IN BOROUGH OF OXFORD IMPROVEMENTS: A RESIDENTIAL DWELLING TAX PARCEL # 06-08-0103 PLAINTIFF: Flagstar Bank, FSB VS DEFENDANT: Tyler M. Harris
SALE ADDRESS: 231 South 4th Street, Oxford, PA 19363
PLAINTIFF ATTORNEY: BROCK & SCOTT, PLLC 844-856-6646
PLAINTIFF ATTORNEY: KML LAW GROUP, P.C., 215-627-1322
N.B. Ten percent (10%) 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-29-3t
N.B. Ten percent (10%) 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-29-3t
Sheriff Sale of Real Estate
By virtue of the within mentioned writs directed to Sheriff Fredda L. Maddox, the herein-described real estate will be sold at public on-line auction via Bid4Assets, by accessing URL www. bid4assets.com/chestercopasheriffsales, on Thursday, January 20th, 2022 at 11AM. Notice is given to all parties in interest and claimants that the Sheriff will file with the Prothonotary and in the Sheriff’s Office, both located in the Chester County Justice Center, 201 W Market Street, West Chester, Pennsylvania, Schedules of Distribution on Monday, February 22nd, 2022. 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. 22-1-19 Writ of Execution No. 2019-04290 DEBT $121,854.16 ALL THOSE CERTAIN LOTS OR PIECES OF GROUND SITUATE IN WEST NOTTINGHAM TOWNSHIP, CHESTER COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA. IMPROVEMENTS: RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY TAX PARCEL NO: 685-66.2A PLAINTIFF: CENLAR FSB VS DEFENDANT: Peter A. Economos & Kelly Economos A/K/A Kelly F. Economos SALE ADDRESS: 130 Pleasant Drive, Nottingham, PA 19362 PLAINTIFF ATTORNEY: ROBERTSON, ANSCHUTZ, SCHNEID, CRANE & PARTNERS, PLLC 855-225-6906 N.B. Ten percent (10%) 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-29-3t
Sheriff Sale of Real Estate
By virtue of the within mentioned writs directed to Sheriff Fredda L. Maddox, the herein-described real estate will be sold at public on-line auction via Bid4Assets, by accessing URL www. bid4assets.com/chestercopasheriffsales, on Thursday, January 20th, 2022 at 11AM. Notice is given to all parties in interest and claimants that the Sheriff will file with the Prothonotary and in the Sheriff’s Office, both located in the Chester County Justice Center, 201 W Market Street, West Chester, Pennsylvania, Schedules of Distribution on Monday, February 22nd, 2022. 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. 22-1-23 Writ of Execution No. 2016-10166 DEBT $232,241.17 Property situate in the TOWNSHIP OF WEST NOTTINGHAM, CHESTER County, Pennsylvania being BLR # 68-2-32-10 Improvements thereon: RESIDENTIAL DWELLING PLAINTIFF: Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as Trustee for Carrington Mortgage Loan Trust, Series2006-OPT1, Asset Backed Pass-Through Certificiates, Series 2006-OPT1 VS DEFENDANT: Dawn McIntyre & David McIntyre SALE ADDRESS: 46 Somerset Drive, Nottingham, PA 19362
Sheriff Sale of Real Estate
By virtue of the within mentioned writs directed to Sheriff Fredda L. Maddox, the herein-described real estate will be sold at public on-line auction via Bid4Assets, by accessing URL www. bid4assets.com/chestercopasheriffsales, on Thursday, January 20th, 2022 at 11AM. Notice is given to all parties in interest and claimants that the Sheriff will file with the Prothonotary and in the Sheriff’s Office, both located in the Chester County Justice Center, 201 W Market Street, West Chester, Pennsylvania, Schedules of Distribution on Monday, February 22nd, 2022. 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. 22-1-25 Writ of Execution No. 2021-01141 DEBT $201,117.99 Property situate in the TOWNSHIP OF LOWER OXFORD, CHESTER County, Pennsylvania being BLR # 56-10-12.4B Improvements thereon: RESIDENTIAL DWELLING PLAINTIFF: Deutsche Bank National Trust Company, As Trustee for New Century Home Equity Loan Trust, Series 2005-B, Asset Backed PassThrough Certificates VS DEFENDANT: Patrick Mahan a/k/a Patrick G. Mahan & Kari Mahan a/k/a Kari C. Mahan a/k/a Kari Krolikowski a/k/a Kari Colflesh SALE ADDRESS: 216 Elkview Road, Lincoln University, PA 19352 PLAINTIFF ATTORNEY: BROCK & SCOTT, PLLC 844-856-6646 N.B. Ten percent (10%) 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-29-3t
Sheriff Sale of Real Estate
By virtue of the within mentioned writs directed to Sheriff Fredda L. Maddox, the herein-described real estate will be sold at public on-line auction via Bid4Assets, by accessing URL www. bid4assets.com/chestercopasheriffsales, on Thursday, January 20th, 2022 at 11AM. Notice is given to all parties in interest and claimants that the Sheriff will file with the Prothonotary and in the Sheriff’s Office, both located in the Chester County Justice Center, 201 W Market Street, West Chester, Pennsylvania, Schedules of Distribution on Monday, February 22nd, 2022. 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. 22-1-26 Writ of Execution No. 2015-03579 DEBT $474,464.24 Property situate in the BOROUGH OF OXFORD, CHESTER County, Pennsylvania being BLR # 6-8-51 Improvements thereon: RESIDENTIAL DWELLING PLAINTIFF: The Bank of New York Mellon, F/K/A The Bank of New York as Indenture Trustee for the Registered Holders of ABFS Mortgage Loan Trust 2002-2, Mortgage-Backed PassThrough Certificates, Series 2002-2 VS DEFENDANT: Henry J. Ruffenach SALE ADDRESS: 224 Penn Avenue,
Oxford, PA 19363 PLAINTIFF ATTORNEY: BROCK & SCOTT, PLLC 844-856-6646 N.B. Ten percent (10%) 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-29-3t
Sheriff Sale of Real Estate
By virtue of the within mentioned writs directed to Sheriff Fredda L. Maddox, the herein-described real estate will be sold at public on-line auction via Bid4Assets, by accessing URL www. bid4assets.com/chestercopasheriffsales, on Thursday, January 20th, 2022 at 11AM. Notice is given to all parties in interest and claimants that the Sheriff will file with the Prothonotary and in the Sheriff’s Office, both located in the Chester County Justice Center, 201 W Market Street, West Chester, Pennsylvania, Schedules of Distribution on Monday, February 22nd, 2022. 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. 22-1-27 Writ of Execution No. 2017-05629 DEBT $475,140.55 Property situate in the TOWNSHIP OF FRANKLIN, CHESTER County, Pennsylvania being BLR # 72-002-0002.0200 Improvements thereon: RESIDENTIAL DWELLING PLAINTIFF: Deutsche Bank National Trust Company, as Trustee for Ameriquest Mortgage Securities Inc., AssetBacked Pass-Through Certificates, Series ARSI 2006-M3 VS DEFENDANT: Art W. Paviglianiti a/k/a Art Paviglianiti & Karen L. Paviglianiti SALE ADDRESS: 613 S. Guernsey Road, West Grove, PA 19390 PLAINTIFF ATTORNEY: BROCK & SCOTT, PLLC 844-856-6646 N.B. Ten percent (10%) 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-29-3t
Classifieds Auctions Notice of Self Storage Sale Please take notice US Storage Centers - Exton located at 371 Gordon Dr., Exton PA 19341 intends to hold a public sale to the highest bidder of the property stored by the following tenants at the storage facility. This sale will occur as an online auction via www.storagetreasures.com on 1/19/2022 at 10:00AM. Jazzmine Corporal unit #B078. This sale may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Certain terms and conditions apply.
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WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 29, 2021
CHESTER COUNTY PRESS
5B
Chester County Press
Local News Breakthrough laminitis research shows promise for the future Horse owners usually dread hearing the diagnosis of “Laminitis.” The disease plagues horses of many backgrounds, ages and disciplines. Using genetics, UF/IFAS and University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine scientists have made a breakthrough in the disease thanks to funding from The Foundation for the Horse. A horse’s hoof has a tough job. It must support a heavy animal which can move faster than 40 miles per hour. Laminitis occurs when inflammation and damage of the tissue takes place between the hoof and coffin bone. It causes lameness, a diminished quality of life and often results in euthanasia. “Laminitis is a tough problem for the horse and its owner,” said Samantha Brooks, UF/IFAS associate professor of equine physiology. “We have very few tools in our arsenal to manage the disease itself. We treat symptoms, pain and mechanical instability but do not have anything to target the cause just yet.”
Laminitis studies have previously been hindered by the scarcity of genetic information specific to hoof tissues. Scientists tapped into the University of Pennsylvania’s New Bolton Center Laminitis Discovery Database, an archive of data and sample sets from naturally occurring laminitis cases collected since 2008. Using that database, researchers examined 36 archived tissues of 20 Thoroughbred horses treated for laminitis. There are three types of laminitis, and all impair the structure and function of the horse’s foot. This research provided a snapshot of the active pathways and functions of the hoof, with a focus on supporting limb laminitis – the laminitis to which the famous racehorse Barbaro succumbed. “We understand the situations that trigger an episode of laminitis, but we do not have a good understanding of what is happening in the hoof,” said Brooks. “This study took a very comprehensive view of the processes early in the development of laminitis.”
Using gene expression analysis, researchers catalogued the changes in gene transcription across the 20 horses. Some had healthy feet, some were early in the disease process and others were more severe. Researchers identified trends in the disease process. “By tapping into my lab’s database and incorporating Dr. Brooks’ unparalleled expertise in equine genetics and transcriptome analysis, we have identified new and promising pathways in cell stress and inflammatory response that significantly enhance our understanding of supporting limb laminitis and its disease processes,” said Hannah GalantinoHomer, VMD, PhD, DACT, senior investigator in Laminitis Research at Penn Vet’s New Bolton Center. The research resulted in three key findings. The first related to keratin, an important structural protein that helps maintain the structural integrity of materials like hair, nails and horse hooves. This study was one of the first to examine the changes in the keratin family
through the laminitis disease process. Some of the keratinrelated genes and regulation of the cell’s manufacturing process started to diminish as the disease began. This could be compared to when a car gets a flat tire; it may still be running but it loses appropriate function and slows down. Another type of cell machinery often studied in laminitis are a class of enzymes called metalloproteinases; enzymes that help maintain the cytoskeleton. These enzymes must maintain a careful balance. Hooves must be able to grow and not break down under the weight of the horse, which requires a balance of remodeling and building tissues within the hoof. When the metalloproteinases become too active, the hoof begins to lose structural strength. One previous theory for treating this process was to stop these enzymes from becoming too active. But treatment targeted these enzymes might also stop hoof growth, which would likely lead to further issues. When keratin degrades,
inflammation in the hoof leads to laminitis. Scientists found a collection of genes responsible for triggering that inflammation which could pave the way for future medications to treat the inflammation. The genes led researchers to believe that some human inflammatory medications for autoimmune disorders may help horses with laminitis. Changes in gene expression in diseased tissue are often reflected in changes in the proteins that can be detected in the blood as the disease progresses. For example, specific proteins, or biomarkers, that increase in the blood in humans following traumatic brain injury had increased expression in the samples from the horses with laminitis in this study. Medical doctors have used these compounds to understand the severity of these injuries in humans without using imaging or more invasive testing. Brooks hopes this could be used as a tool to monitor the progression of laminitis in the horse. “We don’t always recog-
nize that a horse has severe laminitis until things have gotten quite bad,” said Brooks. “Early monitoring tools and ways to combat the disease were exciting findings, but we need further research before these new tools will be ready for use in the field.” Brooks hopes that this research can lead to a blood test to detect these new laminitis-related biomarkers, and medications that are economical and effective for horses suffering from the disease. “Ultimately, these new findings point us towards a more targeted approach for future exploration that we hope will help uncover novel solutions for preventing and treating this debilitating disease,” said Galantino-Homer. “This is a big step in improving our understanding of laminitis,” said Brooks. “Something that could be completely untreatable ten years ago; in another ten years we may be able to intervene and make a significant difference in the disease early on.”
Obituaries Obituaries continued from Page 3B
GERALDINE MARY TAYLOR Geraldine Mary Taylor, 76, of Oxford, passed away on Dec. 9. She was born on Aug. 15, 1945 in Liverpool, U.K. to the late Frank Ellis and Agnes (Smith) Ellis. Geraldine came to the U.S. when she was 19 years old. Soon after her arrival, she met her beloved husband, Joseph Taylor, on a blind date. Geraldine and her husband lived on their family’s mushroom farm where she worked and raised their children. She had many dogs and cats and loved them all dearly. Geraldine loved to go antiquing for Colonial-style furniture and took great pride in decorating her home. She named her home, “The Journey’s End,” which was published in “Living with Country” and “The Magic of Christmas” by Judy Condon. Geraldine is survived by her husband, Joseph Taylor; a son, Joshua Taylor; and her siblings, Ronne O’Brien, Ilene Fisher, Trixie Waddell, Marie Morry, Joan Rumf, and Tess Bridges. In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her son, Joseph Taylor, II. A celebration of Geraldine’s life will be held on Wednesday, Jan. 5, 2022 at 11 a.m. at R.T. Foard Funeral Home, P.A., 111 South Queen Street, Rising Sun, MD 21911. Family and friends may visit beginning at 10 a.m. Burial will follow at Oxford Cemetery. Flowers would be appreciated, or memorial contributions may be made payable to “Brandywine Valley SPCA” and sent in care of the funeral home at P.O. Box 248, Rising Sun, MD 21911. To send online condolences, please visit, www.rtfoard. com.
ALBERT “CHUBBY” CIARROCCHI Albert “Chubby” Ciarrocchi, a resident of West Grove, passed away peacefully in the early morning hours of Dec. 15. He was 87. He was the husband of Evelyn Ciarrocchi, with whom he shared more than 50 years of marriage until her passing in 2011. He was a prominent mushroom grower for 60 years in Avondale. He enjoyed his children, work, hundred dollar bills, and four letter words, but had a special passion for auto racing. His support for local racing touched too many to mention. He will be missed by all who were fortunate enough to have known him. He was the father of four children, Barry Ciarrocchi (and his wife Sandy) of Landenberg, Daniel Ciarrocchi (and his wife Dawn) of Toughkenamon, Donna Kirby of Landenberg, and Anne Marie Lange of West Grove. Chubby is survived by his sister, Mary DiSerafino of Aston, Pa., and eight grandchildren. You are invited to visit with his family and friends from 5 to 8 p.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 11, 2022 at St. Gabriel of the Sorrow Mother Church, 8910 Gap Newport Pike (Route 41), Avondale. His service and burial will be held privately. In lieu of flowers, a contribution may be made to the American Cancer Society, 1818 Market Street, Suite 2820, Philadelphia, PA 19103. To view his online tribute and to share a memory with his family, please visit www.kuzoandfoulkfh.com.
EDWARD LEE BROOMELL
ROBERT “BRETT” CASEY
Edward Lee Broomell, 83, of Oxford, passed away on Dec. 22 at Lancaster General Hospital while surrounded by his loving family. He was survived by his wife, Mary Margaret PenningtonBroomell, with whom he shared 53 years of marriage. Born in Chester County, he was the son of the late George E. Broomell and Evelyn M. Broomell. Edward was employed with Scotts Miracle Gro for over twenty years. Edward enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren, listening to bluegrass music, fishing and had a huge baseball card collection and NASCAR Diecast collection. Edward is survived by two daughters, Lena Mae Broomell and her husband James D. Gleason of Oxford, and Cynthia Lea Broomell and her fiancé Clint W. Carbaugh of Oxford; three grandchildren, Troy Matthew Carter II and his significant other Allison P. Brinton, Alexandria Rose Broomell and her significant other Nicholas R. Hernandez, and Evan James Carbaugh. Edward is survived by three sisters, Shirley D. Bolen of Nottingham, Rose Marie Pucher of Oxford, and Christine Ann Harris of Nottingham; two brothers, George K. Broomell of Quarryville and James R. Broomell of Kirkwood. Edward was preceded in death by two sisters, Dorothy May Bush and Marian L. Phillips. Funeral Services will be held at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 29 at the Edward L. Collins, Jr. Funeral Home, Inc., 86 Pine Street in Oxford. Friends and family may visit from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. and the service will be held at 11 a.m. Interment will follow at the Oxford Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations in Edward’s memory may be made to Edward L. Collins, Jr. Funeral Home, Inc., 86 Pine Street, Oxford, PA 19363, that will go towards the cost of the arrangements. Online condolences may be made at www.elcollinsfuneralhome.com. If you would like to make a donation in memory of Edward Lee Broomell, please visit the Tribute Fund.
Robert “Brett” Casey passed away on Dec. 13 after he bravely navigated the long, ever-changing challenges of Parkinson’s Disease. He was a 72-year-old resident of Kennett Square. He was the husband of Mary Jo Casey, with whom he shared 24 years of marriage. Born in Waltham, Mass., he was a son of the late George Casey and the late Wilhelmina Jackson Spohn. Brett earned his bachelor of science degree in chemistry from the University of Delaware and his MBA from Wilmington University. He had a long career in pharmaceutical chemistry, including positions with Warner Lambert, Pfizer, Roche, Genentech and other laboratories. Brett loved music and was a skilled vocalist, pianist, and guitarist. He was a central player in many bands for over forty years and enjoyed the camaraderie of harmonies and instrumentation, from small bar rooms to festivals of over 40,000 fans. Beyond musical pursuits, he had a love for the quiet world of plants and gardening, creating gorgeous landscapes wherever he lived. He inherited a passion for hiking from his father, and he proudly walked alongside his dad to complete the last 140 miles of the Camino de Santiago in Spain. In addition to his wife Mary Jo Casey, he is survived by a sister, Mary Cloud Casey. He was preceded in death by his brother, Colby Lance Casey. He has four sons, David C. Casey, Christopher A. Cotter, Brian S. Cotter and J. Adam Cotter and two granddaughters, Sheyael Cotter and Sydney Cotter. Services were held on Dec. 18 at Kennett Square Golf & Country Club. Interment will be held privately. Contributions in his memory may be made to The Michael J. Fox Foundation online at https://www. michaeljfox.org/donate. Arrangements are by Matthew J. Grieco of Grieco Funeral Home & Crematory, Inc (484-734-8100). Condolences can be made at www.griecofunerals. com.
DARREN LANE VAN SANT Darren Lane Van Sant, of West Grove, passed away on Dec. 11 at Penn Presbyterian Medical Center in Philadelphia. He was 61. He was the husband of Kimberly Johnson Van Sant, with whom he shared 37 years of marriage. Born in West Chester, he was the son of Shirley Porter Van Sant of Palmyra and the late Richard Van Sant. Darren was a longtime resident of West Grove. He graduated from Avon Grove High School Class of 1979. He was employed with the County of Chester Facilities Department, in the Government Services Building in West Chester, for 34 years. Darren enjoyed softball, golfing, fishing, hunting, riding motorcycles and had a love for classic cars and the beach. He especially loved spending time with his
family. In addition to his wife and mother, Darren is survived by his three daughters, Kara Phipps (Jason) of Quarryville, Laura Van Sant (Robert Galloway) of Cochranville and Alyssa Kilby (Jason) of Nottingham; five grandchildren, Julia, Derek and Natalie Phipps and Brielle and Camryn Kilby; and one sister, Denise Talley (Tom) of Palmyra. Services were held on Dec. 16 at Manor Presbyterian Church in Cochranville. Interment will be private. In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 (http://giftfunds.stjude. org/DarrenVanSant). Arrangements are being handled by the Edward L. Collins, Jr. Funeral Home, Inc. in Oxford. Online condolences may be made at www.elcollinsfuneralhome.com.
6B
CHESTER COUNTY PRESS
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