Western Chester County Life Fall /Winter 2019

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Fall/Winter 2019

WESTERN Chester County LIFE

Inside Meet Our Members Beautiful, historic Hibernia Park Growing for the community at Highland Orchards

Magazine

Fall/Winter 2019 • ISSUE 5

Western Chester County Chamber of Commerce Magazine Complimentary Copy




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STUDENTS SPEND THEIR DAYS GAINING INDUSTRY SKILLS, EARNING COLLEGE CREDITS AND BUILDING FRIENDSHIPS...

ALL AT TCHS

Built a robot and competed on a FIRST Robotics Competition (FTC) team

¤ Completed an internship at a local aerospace production facility

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What is TCHS? Technical College High School (TCHS) is a place where students get to explore the things that interest them through a hands-on approach to education. TCHS is a part-time, public career-focused program for high school students in Chester County. TCHS is a supportive community of educators, industry and college partners and students who share common interests. TCHS is where students get to apply the skills they learn in the classroom to real world lbmnZmbhgl Zg] \hgÛ]^gmer pZed ZpZr pbma Z roadmap for their future. TCHS0819001 An equal opportunity employer and educator.

Learn more at www.tchspennocks.org ——For

news and events visit WesternChesterCounty.com and ChescoWest.com——

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Western Chester County Life A Publication of the Western Chester County Chamber in partnership p with Chester County Press

Western Chester County Chamber Thanks our Sponsoring Partners

Table of Contents Fall/Winter 2019

Meet our Members Octorara School District .................................................16 Carosella & Associates P.C. ............................................34 Academy Sports Complex ..............................................42 Chester County Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired ...........................................50 Breuninger Insurance .....................................................54 Arbonne Independent Consultant ...................................60 Harry’s the Neighborhood Place ....................................64

Featured Articles Spotlight on Chester County’s Hibernia Park ..................10 Celebrate the season at a Christmas tree farm ................28 McMahon Engineers Transportation Solutions ................35 Scouts USA adds another chapter...................................44 Highland Orchards: Growing for the Community ..........56

In Each Issue Letter from the Board President ........................................8 Chamber Calendar ...........................................................9 Community Events .........................................................18 Coatesville 2nd Century Alliance ...................................22 Chester County Planning Commission............................26 Parkesburg Action Committee ........................................40 Chester County Economic Development Council ...........48 Honey Brook Community Partnership ............................52 Transportation Management Association of Chester County........................................62 Western Chester County Chamber Directory by Category .....................................66

Cover photo by Amy Chambers Captured byAmyLynn@gmail.com

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news and events visit WesternChesterCounty.com and ChescoWest.com——

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Letter from the 2019 Western Chester County Chamber Board President

The value of learning from mistakes

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hroughout my time as President of the Chamber, I have tried to espouse the benefits of mentorship and the sharing of experience with others, and the value that your business can achieve from having a mentorship program. Passing along your experience to others is a powerful way to help those next to and behind you succeed as they make their way through the professional world. On occasion, we all make mistakes and perform in a manner that is less than ideal. These errors can occur in both our personal and professional lives. However, it is from these mistakes that we often learn the most. It took Thomas Edison countless attempts and failures to subsequently invent the incandescent lightbulb and it took a small company back in the 1950s 40 different variations to perfect the waterdisplacing and lubricating oil that we now know as WD-40 (Water Displacement on the 40th try). Many people only see the success of a product or a business, without actually seeing the failures and trials along the way. On Sept. 17, the Chester County community will have an opportunity to hear some local success and failure stories at our CEO Roundtable titled “5 Mistakes I’ve Made on the Path to Success.” During this event, we will learn from Greg Vietri, CEO & President of G.A. Vietri Inc., Kevin Finn, Founder & Chairman of the Board of Iron Hill, and Mike DeBerdine, CEO of Roads Energy, as they discuss some of their own mistakes and trials as they worked to build their businesses. I invite and encourage anyone looking to develop professionally to attend. On a personal note, one of the biggest mistakes I’ve made as an entrepreneur was not embracing the power of networking and engaging in groups, such as the Chamber of Commerce. When I started in my industry out of college, I was new to the area, new to business and had zero contacts. I was slow to understand the value of networking to not just help my business grow, but to also help others on their journey to success.

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Karll Klingmann li II

I feel that as I have spent more time with the Chamber and through growing my business, I have seen the importance of making connections that can help others and our communities succeed. Over the years, I have worked to foster those relationships that I have made and look for opportunities to create new connections between my own network and also that of the Chamber and its members. I hope to see you at the next Chamber event, and look forward to that next connection. Karl Klingmann II President, Penn Rise Advisors, LLC

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Western Chester County Chamber Events All Events are open to the general public. Visit WesternChesterCounty.com for more details and to register. Our Networking Events are free and a great way to discover the benefits of WCCCC Membership...helping to grow your business

Sept. 12 Making Connections Networking Happy Hour 5 to 7 p.m. Location TBA Sept. 17 CEO Roundtable 7:30 to 9:15 a.m. Spackman Building Brandywine Hospital Sept. 21 Coatesville Grand Prix WCCCC VIP Viewing Area 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. September 23 Farm Tour 5 to 7 p.m. Highspire Hills Farm

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October 1 Lunch & Learn Business Emergency Prepardness 11am-1pm Chester County Public Safety Training Campus Oct. 9 Making Connections Networking Happy Hour 5 to 7 p.m. Broad Run Golfer’s Club, Bordley House Grille October 11 Future Focus 7:30 to 9:30 a.m. Chester County Public Safety Training Campus

Oct. 24 SCORE Business Seminar 3:45 to 5:30 p.m. How to Write/Update Your Business Plan Marriott Courtyard Coatesville Nov. 14 WCCCC Annual Dinner 5 to 8:30 p.m. French Creek Golf Club Dec. 13 Making Connections Networking Happy Hour 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. Location TBA

January Extravaganza 5 to 7 p.m. Victory Brewing Parkesburg February Legislative Breakfast 8:30 to 10 a.m. Pope John Paul II Regional Catholic Elementary School March Municipal Update Luncheon 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. G.A. Vietri, Inc. Electrical Construction

news and events visit WesternChesterCounty.com and ChescoWest.com——

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Western Chester County Life|

Spotlight on Ches County’s Hiberni Located four miles north of Coatesville, Hibernia County Park was the first of Chester County’s six parks, and remains the largest park with more than 900 acres

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stablished in October 1964 as the first Chester County Park, Hibernia is home to some of the county’s most historical and beautiful facilities. From Hibernia Mansion and camping grounds to park pavilions and fishing sites, Hibernia welcomes around 175,000 people every year. The park’s most popular feature, Chambers Lake, offers excellent recreational opportunities such as fishing, boating, hiking and bird watching. Chambers Lake also connects to the West Branch of Brandywine Creek, another popular area for fishing in the park. A unique aspect of Hibernia Park is its range of walking trails -- six different trails that offer many degrees of difficulty and length. One of those six trails, Birch Run Trail, is renowned for its beautiful views of Chambers Lake. Continued on Page 12

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ester nia Park

The Hibernia Park Mansion has a long and storied past.

——For

news and events visit WesternChesterCounty.com and ChescoWest.com——

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Hibernia Park Continued from Page 10

History of Hibernia Park

of Hibernia’s appearance today is the result of changes and extensions made by Colonel Swayne between 1895 and The first owner of the land that is now Hibernia Park was 1910. His architectural additions and furnishings reflected George Harrison, a weaver who lived on the land as early as his admiration of English manor style and taste. 1744. In the early 1790s, Harrison sold the land to Samuel The massive lion heads at the entrance to the estate Downing, and it was Downing who built the first iron became Swayne’s symbol. He purchased them on one forge there on the of his 29 trips West Branch of to England and the Brandywine he had them to convert pig installed in iron into bar impressive piliron. The Iron lar gate posts. It Works property is said that the passed through east wing – or several ownerballroom – of the ships from 1808 Mansion House to 1821, when was added after Charles Brooke Swayne’s marpurchased the riage to Dolly property and Clifford (an became its more English actress), prosperous to host grand ironmaster. Christmas parties By 1850, in the old English the Hibernia tradition. The Iron Works, large fireplace One of the biggest events of the year is the Old Fiddlers’ Picnic. also known as was originally Hibernia Forge, designed to included two iron forges, two heating furnaces, a roll- accommodate the traditional Yule log. Legend has it that ing mill, grist mill, the mansion and several houses for only one such party was held, in 1903, and for whatever the families employed to work the mill. There was also a reason the couple parted soon after. farm, gardens, orchards and other improvements. These all The Colonel is thought to have had the stone exterior of helped Hibernia to become a self-sustaining operation for the Mansion House covered with coppery peach aggrethe Ironmaster’s family and hired staff, as well as for the 16 gate stucco. He also was responsible for the addition of a men and boys, their families, and the 18 oxen, horses and 33-foot-wide “pavilion” that projects more than a foot from mules that worked at producing the iron. the wall of the original façade of the south wall of the big When Brooke conveyed the then-1,594-acre property to house. The four-foot-deep windowsills in the front hall are his three sons in 1862, he did so with the understanding a part of this change, as well as the relocation of the main that he and his wife could remain in the Mansion House entrance. In addition, the grand-scale casement windows without charge for the rest of their lives. The Hibernia were introduced, and the two-story quarter round turrets Forge operation ceased in the late 1870s, some years after were added. a period of management by Horace Beale. Much of the furniture in Hibernia Mansion today belonged During the 1880s, the Mansion House was the country to Swayne, including several of the rugs, most wooden residence of Thomas Costigan, a Philadelphia contractor, pieces, the pianos, wall decorations, engravings, paintings and his wife Mary and their family. Costigan relished fox- and major upholstered pieces. All of the furniture in the hunting and the family frequently used their private railroad dining room was Swayne’s. Of particular note in the dincar to travel between the city and Hibernia. ing room is his Empire sideboard, with claw feet in back In 1894, Colonel Franklin Swayne, a successful as well as the front. The ballroom has been painted a deep Philadelphia real estate lawyer and avid foxhunter, bought apricot, as it was originally, and the elaborate mirror has the Mansion and 650 acres of the Hibernia property. Much been re-gilded. 12

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A squire of the land, Swayne managed several enterprises during his time at Hibernia, including farming, sheep raising and selling ice. But none of these were successful financial ventures. Upon his death in 1924, Colonel Swayne willed the property to his cousin, Mary Skerrett Matteson. Although she introduced electricity to Hibernia, she used the house primarily as a summer home for vacationing with her grandchildren. High maintenance costs and the family’s limited use of the property finally led her to sell Hibernia in 1963 to Chester County, for the enjoyment of all its citizens. Hibernia today retains the legacy of the gentleman’s country estate that Colonel Swayne created during his time there.

Hibernia Mansion Hibernia Mansion, as you see it today, reflects the changes of lifestyle and social status of its various owners over the centuries. Long the home of ironmasters, it expanded with their increased prosperity. At the turn of the 20th century, Hibernia Mansion underwent extensive renovations,

but years later, the mansion sat vacant for more than a decade and fell into disrepair. Now owned and operated by the Chester County Department of Facilities and Parks, Hibernia Mansion has been restored to its former glory, preserving its heritage for current and future generations to enjoy. Hibernia is on the National Register of Historic Places and the Pennsylvania Inventory of Historic Places, and it is part of the Hatfield-Hibernia Historic District. A special aspect of Hibernia Park and the Mansion is the community that surrounds and supports it. The Friends of Hibernia County Park, a non-profit organization with the goal of promoting the legacy of Hibernia Mansion, meets monthly at the Mansion. Thanks to the efforts of the Friends of Hibernia County Park organization, Hibernia Mansion is open to the public for tours on Sunday afternoons from May 27 to Sept. 22, and the Friends organization hosts other special events throughout the year, including the annual Christmas Candlelight tours of the Mansion. Continued on Page 14

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news and events visit WesternChesterCounty.com and ChescoWest.com——

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Hibernia Park Continued from Page 13

Hibernia Park facilities and programs Set in more than 900 acres – including the 90-acre Chambers Lake – Hibernia County Park features five miles of trails, boating and fishing, six picnic pavilions, two campgrounds, a children’s pond, playgrounds, horse riding trails and special events like Envirothon and Old Fiddlers’ Picnic. The park’s abundance of natural and historical resources attract more than 175,000 guests every year, and it is a popular place for family reunions and community gatherings, as well as educational and entertaining programs for all ages including archery, hikes and bonfires, camping for beginners, orienteering, physical conditioning and building natural bird feeders.

Hibernia Park Trails In addition to the trails, there is a walking tour of Hibernia’s historic sites that covers less than three miles – starting at Hibernia Mansion and exploring the ruins, structures and landscape features located on the Forest Hill and Forge Trails and Lion’s Head Drive that tell the story of Hibernia’s past, focusing on mansion builders Charles Brooks and Colonel Swayne.

Chambers Lake is one of the many spectacular natural features in the park.

A map of all six trails is available to download on the Hibernia Park page of www.chesco.org/parks, and is also available at the Hibernia Park Office.

Hibernia Park hours and information Hibernia County Park is located in Wagontown, four miles north of Coatesville, off Route 82. The address is 1 Park Road, Coatesville, PA 19320, and the phone number for the park office is 610-383-3812. Park hours are 8 a.m. to sunset, every day of the year, except Christmas Day. Hibernia Park’s campgrounds are open daily, May through October. To find out more about Hibernia Park, to reserve a campsite or pavilion online, and to register for the many programs at the Park, visit www.chesco.org/parks.

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Hibernia Park’s six trails ensure there is a walk for any age and any capability. Cedar Hollow Trail - 1.08 Miles — Cedar Hollow is a mostly-level, upland trail with some seasonally wet areas. It passes through a variety of woodland, forest edge and field habitats. This trail provides opportunities for wildlife viewing and passes through the Lake Campground. Forest Hill Trail - .60 Miles — Forest Hill Trail is primarily a gentle-sloping and level wooded trail. A 50-yard stretch at the southern end leading into Forge Trail is fairly steep. It has three footbridges constructed over small streams. Please be cautious when crossing Park Road. Lake Trail - 0.64 Miles — Although most of Lake Trail is about 5 percent slope, it is wheelchair accessible. The stone dust surface extends from Hibernia Mansion parking lot to the scenic overlook just around the fishing pier. This is the only trail in the park that is off limits to horseback riders and bicyclists. Rim Trail - 2.34 Miles — The Rim Trail’s stone dust surface covers miles of the old railroad bed and is ideal for running. The upper loop portion is steep and rocky, but gently rolling on the higher level. Parking/access is available at the Hatfield House/Brandywine pull-off. Forge Trail - 0.42 Miles — The eastern part of Forge Trail is a level floodplain, becoming muddy in some areas during the wet season, and connects with Forest Hill Trail. It travels westward through the historic Hibernia Forge area, where its surface is still black with charcoal dust. The section near the pond cottage travels up a steep hill onto Lions Head Drive. It continues west back into the woods. Birch Run Trail - 0.55 Miles — Starting on Lions Head Drive by Cottage 3, the trail heads westerly along the Birch Run before heading gradually up through the forest. The trail merges with a gentle grass path that leads to other great fishing spots and the public boat launch area of Chambers Lake. It gradually drops down through an old stand of White Pine and returns to Lions Head Drive near Cottage 1 and the Lions Head entrance.

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news and events visit WesternChesterCounty.com and ChescoWest.com——

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Meet Our Member:

Octorara Area School District By Marcella Peyre-Ferry Staff Writer

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a x i m i z i n g Opportunities for Success! This is the vision statement of the Octorara Area School District. Teaching and learning in the 21st century require a growth mindset and a willingness to be a lifelong learner. To support the community’s leaders of tomorrow, Octorara is redefining college and career readiness by focusing on the academic, technical, social, and emotional needs of all students. Career and technical education are integral parts of the school district’s program of study. Half-day programs in a variety of career and technical education keep pace with business and industry. Courses are aligned to Pennsylvania state standards and focus on national industry certifications. A competency certificate is issued to each graduate, listing the number of skills mastered and the level of proficiency in each skill. Career and technical programs currently offered include: Mechanical Systems Technology; Animal and Plant Science Technology; Diversified Occupations and Cooperative Education; Engineering and Drafting Technology; Child Care Education; Culinary Arts; Woodworking Technology; Commercial and Graphic Arts; and Homeland Security and Protective Services. Future program offerings include Computer Systems Technology and Entrepreneurship. A partnership with the Technical College High School will provide Octorara students access to a Precision Machining program at the Senior High School. One of Octorara’s most celebrated and unique career and technical education offerings is its Homeland Security and Protective Services Academy. “There is nothing like this program in Chester County. It is an unbelievable opportunity for our students,” said Lisa McNamara, the Director of the Octorara Area Career and Technical Education Programs. “They’re giving back to their community, immediately. They have access to every industry who comes there: Firefighters, canine units, FBI units and criminal justice units. The daily exposure to life mentors that this program gives students is amazing.” This 3 year program, open to any school district, prepares interested students in careers in firefighting, law 16

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enforcement, homeland security, emergency medical services, EMT, emergency management services, and the military. Students who successfully complete the program have the potential to earn 64 industry certifications, 50 or more college credits, national Fire 1 certification, national EMT certification, and job-ready skills, as well as the ability to receive free college housing and tuition. Octorara continues to add courses in fields that appeal to students and have practical application after graduation. Within the Animal and Plant Science Technology program, students may participate in the Octorara Equine Sports Team. Working with nationally known local professionals, students are exposed to different riding disciplines and prepared for a wide range of career opportunities in the equestrian industry. McNamara stated “The Animal and Plant Science Technology Program is open to any school district who has a student interested in equine industry. It’s an opportunity of a lifetime and Octorara students love it!” On the main campus, the Octorara Ecology Lab greenhouse was built to support an aquaponics and aeroponics system. As a perfect tool for STEM subjects, students may study fish, plants and bacteria interacting in a living ecosystem, and perform water quality tests. The next phase of the Ecology Lab’s development will be to add solar power to the system. Octorara places a high value on academic growth, as evidenced by the success of student competitors on academic teams, in robotics leagues, at local and statewide STEM competitions and science fairs, and more. Because Octorara emphasizes standards based grading at its elementary schools, aligning instruction and assessment to what students must know and be able to do has increased the number of students recognized at the secondary level for their academic success. Students continue to excel in competitions hosted by Skills USA, Future Business Leaders of America, and Future Farmers of America. For the third year in a row, Octorara students have participated on a global stage in the International Youth Physicists Tournament. Responding to students’ interest to form stronger relationships with their peers, curtail bullying, and address

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mental health issues, Octorara took the bold step during the 2018-2019 school year and implemented its Home of the BRAVES character education program. Using the researchbased Positive Action curriculum, consistent and pervasive time is devoted in every grade to teaching the tenets of the school community’s mascot, the Octorara Brave. Bold, self confidence; Responsible, accountable for their choices actions and attitude; Ambitious, setting and achieving goals; Virtuous, honorable in words and actions; Energetic, committed to school and community; and Selfless, concerned about the rights and feelings of others. At the elementary and junior high, and senior high school levels, the entire student body participates in positive action lessons. Students also have the opportunity to engage in acts of kindness and support through such groups as the Kindness Club and Avedum. By implementing a strategic approach to teaching the behaviors that promote success, Octorara is cultivating a culture in which students embrace a “hired for attitude; trained for skill mindset.” The 2018-2019 school year also marked the rebirth of the school district’s online learning or in-house cyber school program. The Octorara Virtual Academy, also known as OVA, provides students with a wide range of online learning courses that can be taken at home or on campus in the district’s Learning Lab. OVA offers a quality education in a public-school setting through online classes with support from district teachers. Students enrolled in the OVA have access to all services, events, and extracurricular activities Octorara students receive. Successful completion results in a school-issued diploma, and students may participate in Octorara’s graduation ceremony. The flexibility of the Virtual Academy offers students everything from a single on-line course to a full cyber school experience. The online courses are also available to Octorara High School students, who are encouraged to take at least one online class during their time at the high school. Access to online classes allows students to explore career fields that are not available in

the standard curriculum or can’t otherwise be fit into their schedule. The online courses are perfect for students studying at an advanced rate, or those who would like to explore unusual areas of study. Interested students in grades K-6 will be afforded the opportunity to explore OVA this coming school year. Octorara’s strategic approach to communication and community engagement offers opportunities for school district personnel to share the great things that are happening in the school district every day. Contact Dr. Michele M. Orner, Superintendent, at morner@ octorara.org should your service organization, community group, business, or municipality be interested in a presentation on any of the academic, technical, or social emotional programs offered in the school district. Visit www.octorara.k12.pa.us or follow the Braves on twitter @OctoraraSuper to learn more about district happenings.

HATT’S HARDWARE 2803 E. Lincoln Hwy. Thorndale, PA 610-384-1954 ——For

news and events visit WesternChesterCounty.com and ChescoWest.com——

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Chester County Parks located in Western Chester County Hibernia Springton Manor Wolf’s Hollow Activities, hiking, lectures and more.Visit their websites @chesco.org

Local Farmers Markets Downingtown Farmers Market Eagleview Farmers Market growingrootspartners.com. Remember to buy local from our area farmers! There are 1,730 operating farms in Chester County, most being familyowned small businesses. Use the Farm Finder to search by product, address or farm name to find the freshest, local farm goods near you. chesco.org/1124/ Find-Local-Farm-Products

Libraries located in Western Chester County Atglen, Coatesville, Honey Brook, Parkesburg Libraries host a wide array of programs and events. ccls.org

Sept. 6

Sept. 7 to Oct. 26

Movie Night Outdoor Movie Night at Umble Park in Honey Brook. 6:30 to 8 p.m. honeybrooktwp.com/event

Harvest Festival Weekends at Highland Orchards Pick your own apples and pumpkins, shop for local fruits and vegetables, take home apple cider donuts, browse through crafts by local crafters, and enjoy kids activities, hayrides, beer, wine, and food trucks. Noon to 5 p.m. Highlandorchards.net

Sept. 6 Coatesville Sounds of Summer Jazz Series Local and regional jazz musicians that will have you dancing and moving to the music as you wind down your work week. The Coatesville Sounds of Summer Jazz Series admission is free. Bring your lawn chairs and stay a while. Shows run from 6 to 9 p.m. coatesville.org

Sept. 7 Caln Community Day The 13th Annual Caln Community Day will be held in Municipal Park and on G.O. Carlson Boulevard in Thorndale from 3 to 8 p.m. Entry and activities are free! Featuring the Craft House Beer Garden, Golf Ball Drop, mini golf, live entertainment by Project: X Rocks, food vendors, more than 50 vendors and exhibitors and fireworks. Calntownship.org

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Sept. 11 Coatesville Remembers, 9/11 Memorial They should never be forgotten. The thousands of victims of the 9/11/2001 terrorist attack on the World Trade Center twin towers will be remembered at the National Iron & Steel Heritage Museum’s “Coatesville Remembers September 11th” Commemorative Service. Steelmuseum.org

Sept. 11 to 14 Honey Brook Country Fair 6 to 9:30 p.m. Honey Brook Fire Company Fairgrounds honeybrooktwp.com/event

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Sept. 19

Sept. 21

Sept. 28

Transportation Policy Priorities Breakfast - Private Sector Driving Priorities hosted by the Transportation Management Association of Chester County. Tmacc.org 7:30 to 9:15 a.m. Downingtown Country Club

Music in the Park | Christiana Borough Join family, friends and neighbors for an acoustic performance by Bob Croce. Food available for purchase. Bring your chairs or blankets. In case of inclement weather, the event will be held in the Fire Hall. http:// christianaboro.com/

West Nantmeal Community Day & 5-10k Race Music, games, helicopters, hayrides, food and more! westnantmeal.com/

Sept. 21

Sept. 21

Coatesville Vintage Grand Prix Vintage cars and motorcycles will return to Coatesville’s city streets for the 4th Annual Grand Prix. Timed races will run throughout the day. Spectators will see over 50 historic vintage cars and motorcycles dating from the 1900s to 1970 as they race through the city streets. Activities start at 8:30 a.m., with racing commencing at 9 a.m. and continuing throughout the day. Free to attend. Food vendors are on site at this family-friendly event! The Start & Finish line is at 3rd Street and Lincoln Highway. coatesvillegrandprix.com for details and registration.

Movie Night in East Fallowfield The event will feature a family-friendly movie on the big screen. Concessions will be sold at the event. The movie will start at 7:30 p.m.

Sept. 21 Harmony Day Health Fair 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Presented by the Honey Brook Community Partnership. hbpartnership.org/

Sept. 21 Atglen Community Day Classic car show, apple festival, children’s games, food, craft vendors, raffles and much more. All proceeds benefit Community Outreach and the Atglen Library. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. facebook.com/atglencommunityday/

Sept. 27 Parkesburg Final Friday Presented by The Parkesburg Action Committee. The event includes food trucks, live music, beer garden, the Kids Zone, vendors, and community groups. 5 to 8 p.m., Main Street, Parkesburg

Sept. 28 Moo & Brew and Grapes Too | Coatesville Senior Center Taking inspiration from the city of Coatesville as it embraces its revival, CASC has transformed its annual Beef and Beer into the reimagined Moo & Brew and Grapes Too. The event is held at a private hangar at the Chester County G.O. Carlson Airport, and offers food and drinks, music, games and prizes. 5 to 10 p.m. Chester County G.O. Carlson Airport Coatesvilleseniorcenter.org

Sept. 28 Valley Day Highlands Corporate Center, Airport Road, Valley Township 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. valleytownship.org/ValleyDay.html

Sept. 28 4th Annual Bike the Brandywine Explore the scenery, glimpse the history, and discover the lure of the Brandywine Creek on the 4th annual Bike the Brandywine, hosted by the Brandywine Conservancy. Proceeds from the ride benefit the Conservancy’s clean water programs. Riders can choose from four loops that take in the Brandywine Creek Greenway and surrounding countryside, with distances of 25, 45, 62 (Metric Century) and 80 miles. brandywine.org/conservancy/ bike-brandywine

Oct. 5 79th Annual Chester County Day House Tour The 2019 Chester County Day will feature homes and public landmarks in the southeast quadrant of Chester County. The day celebrates the traditional, distinctive architecture of Chester County with a strong emphasis on history. Every Chester County Day begins with a fox hunt. The 2019 event will be held at Radnor Hunt in Malvern, Continued on Page 20

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news and events visit WesternChesterCounty.com and ChescoWest.com——

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complete with hounds, horses and horns, and will set off promptly at 9 a.m. Guests can begin their tour of this year’s selected properties at 10 a.m. The tours run from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. chestercountyhospital.org/giving/ support-an-event/chester-county-day

Oct. 6 Marshallton Triathlon Individuals, families and teams gather in the quaint village of Marshallton to participate in a triathlon course winding through Chester County. Competitors start off with a downhill bicycle race to the Brandywine River followed by a canoe paddle to the next point. Athletes continue on with a fast walk through the trail system and return to their bicycles to reach the finish line! Registration closes Oct. 1. First heat: 8 a.m. Marshaltontriathlon.net

Oct. 12 East Fallowfield Township Park Day 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Come out and meet neighbors and enjoy a free community event at the park featuring zip lining, bungee trampolining, moon bounces, carnival games, pony rides, face painting, balloon animals, a costume parade, vendors, prizes/raffles and more.

Oct. 19 ChesLenChase Run for nature at Natural Lands’ 6th annual ChesLen Chase for Open Space, with a 10K, 5K and 2-Mile Fun Run-Walk! The challenging courses include steep hills, creek crossings, woodlands, and open fields. The fun continues after crossing the finish line with a post-race party at ChesLen’s Lenfest Center featuring music, craft beers from 2SP Brewing Company, food, an awards

ceremony, and more. r unsignup.com/Race/PA/Coatesville/ ChesLenChase

Oct. 19 and 20 The Chester County American Indian Cultural Festival Enjoy drumming, dancing, vendors, food and children’s activities. Gates open at 10 a.m. each day, with the grand entry at noon. $5 per person. Children under 12 free. Seniors over 65 free. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Hosted at the Romano 4-H Center.

Oct. 25 Parkesburg Final Friday Presented by The Parkesburg Action Committee. The event includes food trucks, live music, beer garden, the Kids Zone, vendors, and community groups. 5 to 8 p.m., Main Street, Parkesburg

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——Fall/Winter

2019 • Volume 5——


Oct. 27 Caln Township Halloween Parade and Party Starting at 1 p.m. calntownship.org

Nov. 1 The Night of Hope Gala The Crime Victims Center of Chester County presents their annual gala at the American Helicopter Museum. cvcofcc.org

Nov. 2 Pope John Paul II Craft and Vendor Show Jewelry, home décor, health and beauty, baked goods and holiday gifts. Food available for purchase. Opens at 9 a.m. popejohnpaul2sch.org/craft-show

Nov. 2 5k to Benefit Coatesville Kids to College This unique cross country 5k race course winds through the beautiful and scenic fruit Groves of Highland Orchard! The proceeds from the event will help to support Coatesville Kids to College. Coatesville Kids

——For

to College’s mission is to provide academic, emotional, and spiritual empowerment to Coatesville’s children and youth from pre-k to college. 9 a.m.

Nov. 7 Utopia for Workers: Housing and Planned Industrial Communities National Iron and Steel Heritage Museum Lecture Series Dr. Anne E. Krulikowski from West Chester University will talk about the Midvale Steel housing in Coatesville. 6 to 8 p.m. Steelmuseum.org

Nov. 30 Saturday with Santa West Brandywine Township will host a children’s visit with Santa, along with craft vendors. 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. wbrandywine.org

Dec. 1 Caln Township Holiday Kids Party Starting at 4 p.m.calntownship.org

Dec. 7 Coatesville Christmas Parade Over 150 entries will march down Lincoln Highway in the Coatesville Christmas Parade. 10 a.m. coatesvillechristmasparade.com

Dec. 7 Holiday Bazaar with Santa & Mrs. Claus Highland Orchards 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Dec. 13 Holiday Open House The National Iron and Steel Heritage Museum will host its annual Holiday Open House from 5 to 8 p.m. Visitors can stroll through candlelit grounds, enjoy holiday refreshments, listen to carolers and the Lukens Band, tour beautifully decorated, historic buildings, shop at the museum store, share your child’s delight at the train display and be sure to slip your wish list to Santa!

news and events visit WesternChesterCounty.com and ChescoWest.com——

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Traction:

A progress report on the revitalization of the City of Coatesville By Sonia Huntzinger Coatesville 2nd Century Alliance Executive Director Opportunity Zones. You may have heard some buzz around this new federal program. A component of the federal Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, this new program provides tax incentives for investors to invest their unrealized capital gains into qualified designated zones (QOZs). The program allows for the Governor of each state to designate 25 percent of their state’s low- to moderateincome census tracts for eligibility in the program. Governor Tom Wolf nominated the four U.S. Census tracts that make up most of Coatesville’s geographic area to the U.S. Treasury, and the Treasury awarded the designation Qualified Opportunity Zones in 2018. These Coatesville designated zones are the only QOZ’s in Chester County. Here’s how it works: “Opportunity Zones are designed to spur economic development by providing tax benefits to investors. First, investors can defer tax on any prior gains invested in a Qualified Opportunity Fund (QOF) until the earlier of the date on which the investment in a QOF is sold or exchanged, or December 31, 2026. If the QOF investment is held for longer than 5 years, there is a 10% exclusion of the deferred gain. If held for more than 7 years, the 10 percent becomes 15 percent. Second, if the investor holds the investment in the Opportunity Fund for at least ten years, the investor is eligible for an increase in basis of the QOF investment equal to its fair market value on the date that the QOF investment is sold or exchanged.” - irs.gov If that all sounds a little complicated, it rather is, which is why we suggest you consult with a tax attorney should this program be of interest to you. Here’s the good news: The program is already beginning to reap rewards in the City of Coatesville. In May of this year, three offers were presented on a property owned by 22

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the city’s Redevelopment Authority. This is a property that has sat fallow for more than a decade. Three offers! The selected developer is currently in negotiations with the Authority for the purchase and redevelopment of the site. And the two buyers that weren’t selected? Still interested in finding locations within the city. Also, a business currently located in Exton has leased space within the city’s QOZ with the intent of moving their entire operations into the city; all to take advantage of the Opportunity Zone investment potential. All this means additional investment in Coatesville; development of vacant parcels, rehabilitation of blighted properties, and most importantly, jobs and economic opportunity for our residents. Precisely what the program was designed to do. And here at the Coatesville 2nd Century Alliance, we’re happy to be partnering with the City Administration and the Western Chester County Chamber of Commerce to facilitate the program. If you’re unfamiliar with the 2nd Century Alliance, we were formed in 2015 when the City of Coatesville celebrated its 100th anniversary as a Pennsylvania City of the Third Class. At that time, 18 community stakeholders came together with a mission to ensure that Coatesville’s “second century” would be economically prosperous for all its residents and businesses; hence the name “2nd Century Alliance.” We partner with the City of Coatesville, the County of Chester, and many other mission-similar organizations to advance our mission to “improve socioeconomic conditions in the City, stabilize the City’s financial stature, foster community and economic development, and bring resources and stakeholders together for these purposes.” For more information on these and other initiatives in the City of Coatesville, please call 484-786-8896 or visit www.2ndCenturyAlliance.org.

2019 • Volume 5——


——For

news and events visit WesternChesterCounty.com and ChescoWest.com——

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Meet Our Member:

Coventry Environmental, Inc. By Marcella Peyre-Ferry Staff Writer

C

oventry Environmental, Inc., is a full-service environmental remediation/construction contractor handling projects large and small throughout the Delaware Valley, particularly Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware and Maryland Established in 2012 by company president Steve Ohrwaschel, Coventry is able to offer well planned and cost-effective services to deal with environmental contamination of all kinds -- from large-scale cleanup of industrial or commercial sites to important remediation of problem materials in residential settings. Dealing with environmental issues can present complex problems that Coventry has the experience and expertise to address. Coventry has served everything from Fortune 500 companies to small businesses to individual homeowners. No matter the project size, Coventry uses a collaborative approach to develop an understanding of each client’s needs and goals, including a detailed scope of services to meet the objectives of each project. When a commercial or industrial property is purchased, particularly when there is a change of use or new construction in mind, sometimes environmental problems such as underground tanks, environmentally hazardous building materials or soil contamination may be found. Once these concerns are identified, Coventry is a reliable firm to address these issues. Coventry has the staff and equipment to address this specialized work for projects of every size. Even outdoor

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sites that look pristine can have issues, such as pesticide contamination of the soil, as might be found on old golf courses. Coventry’s overall objective is to exceed clients’ expectations, maintaining a constant dialogue to ensure that everyone is aware of schedules, progress, health and safety concerns and any other issues that may arise. There are times when a seemingly simple project can turn into a bigger issue once remediation work begins and new issues are uncovered. Removing an underground tank could start as a straightforward task until it is uncovered only to find that it has been leaking for years, contaminating the soil and groundwater around it. The flexibility of Coventry Environmental allows them to reassess projects in progress when necessary, shifting to the proper equipment to handle unexpected needs. Coventry is also adept at filing for permits and preparing the extensive reporting paperwork that is required on all environmental cleanup projects. Getting this complex portion of the job accurately completed is as essential as the hands-on work at the jobsite. “This is a highly regulatory driven industry. If you are uncomfortable on the paperwork side, you are bound to fail,” Mr. Ohrwaschel said. Company President Steve Ohrwaschel has been in the environmental services industry more than 35 years. A graduate of Fairleigh Dickinson University, he is a Registered Environmental Manager and Certified Waste Management Professional with multiple state tank handling licenses. He is a member of the society of American Military Engineers and directs Coventry’s relationship with a variety of business chambers throughout the mid-Atlantic region. Ohrwaschel ——Fall/Winter

2019 • Volume 5——


manages the overall operations of the company, using a hands-on approach with client and employee relationships. “I wouldn’t know any other business. It’s the only business I have practiced my entire life. My first job out of college was conducting fish surveys in the Hudson River. It evolved into this remediation practice of mine,” Ohrwaschel said. “It’s not just a financial reward. I really enjoy seeing the end product. After what we do, I enjoy going back to those properties to see that they are revitalized and there is a new use to them.” Ten to 15 field staff are assigned to projects, under experienced project management. Senior Project Manager Anthony Alessandrini manages multiple projects involving remediation projects throughout the mid-Atlantic and northeast regions. He is experienced with both state and federal programs and is involved in assessing and implementing large remedial action projects involving landfill remediation, soils excavations, multiple media and wastewater treatment system designs and installations, and on-site soil and or groundwater remedial projects. Operations Manager Gene Reider has over 25 years of operational, supervisory and management experience in the environmental industry including on-site supervision of multiple remediation, industrial maintenance, and emergency spill response projects throughout the mid-Atlantic region. He is often the on-site face interacting with clients, field staff, management and regulatory officials. Project Manager Tracy Termin has over 16 years of field, estimating and managerial experience in the environmental industry, including facility site remediation, decontamination/demolition, underground storage tank removal, impacted sediment removal, lagoon closures, waste transportation and disposal, and industrial maintenance. “Both myself and our project managers and field staff are continuously upgrading training requirements for safety and state regulations,” Ohrwaschel said. Coventry Environmental has recently relocated to 795 South Main St., Spring City. The former auto shop location is close to their earlier Spring City home, with room for comfortable quarters and continued expansion of their operation. There is even a connection to the Schuylkill River Trail at their new location adding recreational opportunities for their staff. For more information on Coventry Environmental, Inc., visit their website at www.covenv.com or call 610-245-3815. ——For

news and events visit WesternChesterCounty.com and ChescoWest.com——

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New report highlights economic value of protected open space By Brian O’Leary Executive Director of Chester County Planning Commission

T

hey say money doesn’t grow on trees – perhaps not literally. But the parks, farms, and forests of Chester County increase home values, create jobs, and account for millions of dollars each year in savings, earnings, and avoided costs. In a spin on traditional business Return on Investment (ROI), a new study titled “Return on Environment: The Economic Value of Protected Open Space in Chester County” has documented the economic value of open space in our county. Thirty years ago, Chester County became the first in the region to formally set aside funds for a rigorous open space preservation program. As a result, about 28.8 percent of land, or 140,000 acres, has been preserved as protected open space to date, which is more land than the size of Philadelphia and Pittsburgh combined. While commenting on the study, Chester County Commissioners Michelle Kichline, Kathi Cozzone and Terence Farrell noted that Chester County’s open spaces offer more than beautiful scenery. “Those pretty views are economic powerhouses that generate significant economic value for our region,” they stated. Some of the key findings of the report identify often overlooked benefits of open space to businesses: • Open space is part of Chester County’s quality of place, which attracts an educated and talented workforce to live and work here. • The tax base is expanded because homes in the county are valued at more than $11,000 more on average when they are located within a half-mile of preserved open space.

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• Property owners, businesses, and workers avoid having to pay additional taxes ($97 million per year) to build infrastructure that replicates the environmental services that nature provides for free such as flood protection and air pollution reduction.

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2019 • Volume 5——


• The recreational opportunities on protected open space contribute to a healthy workforce and account for more than $324 million in avoided costs for medical care, workers’ compensation, and lost worker productivity. To bring these numbers to a more understandable scale, the report includes nine case studies that highlight the economic, environmental, and health-related benefits of specific well-known open spaces in Chester County. One case study highlights the landscape of preserved farms in West Fallowfield Township (one-third of lands in the township are preserved farmland) and the economic activity generated by these farms. The case study notes that these farms generate $21.4 million in total economic activity annually, and employ 110 local residents who earn a total of $3.9 million each year. Chester County is focused on balancing growth with preservation, as reflected in Landscapes3, the county’s comprehensive plan, and VISTA 2025, the county’s 10-year economic development strategy that has “quality of place” as a primary goal. In that context, Peter Hausmann, chairman of Natural Lands’ Board of Trustees and a former real estate developer, recently captured the connection between “quality of place,” open space, and the Chester County economy when he stated that “open space is infrastructure in a knowledge-based economy.” The “Return on Environment” report was prepared by Chester County departments, land conservancies, municipal representatives, economic development agencies, and Econsult Solutions, Inc., an economic consulting firm that provides econometric and analytic expertise to businesses and policymakers nationwide. View the study and video: http://chescoplanning. org/openspace/roe.cfm Request a presentation: http://chescoplanning. org/OpenSpace/ROE-PresentationRequest.cfm The Chester County Planning Commission can be reached by phone at 610-344-6285, by email at ccplanning@chesco.org, or by mail at 601 Westtown Road, West Chester, PA 19380. Get all the latest updates online at www.chescoplanning.org

——For

news and events visit WesternChesterCounty.com and ChescoWest.com——

27


Western Chester County Life|

Celebrate the season at your local Christmas tree farm By Ann Lane Chester County Ag Council

F

or many families around Chester County, a visit to the Christmas tree farm is a way to partake in cherished family traditions, make new memories, and embrace a slower pace of life during the hectic hustle and bustle of the holiday season. Cochranville resident Beth Cunliffe has been visiting the same tree farm with her family for the past 16 years. “I look forward to our visit to the tree farm all year long,” she said. “My kids get hot chocolate and we take lots of family photos. The people who work at the farm are some of the nicest around, especially when it comes to helping us cut our tree and load it onto the car.” The practice of bringing trees inside to celebrate Christmas was first introduced in the United States by German settlers in the 1800s. Originally, the trees were simple, tabletop-sized decorations, but customer preference has changed over time to include larger, floor-to-ceiling sizes to showcase holiday ornaments and lights. The first Christmas trees were also harvested from forests, whereas today’s Christmas trees are grown on farms as a cultivated crop. Despite the apparent seasonal nature of their business, tree farmers are not resting on their laurels once December ends. They and their staff are busy year-round, planning, preparing the ground for new trees, and trimming and shaping existing trees so they are ready to be harvested right after Thanksgiving, when most farms open to the public. From seed to stand, the average growing time for a Christmas tree is about seven years, with lots of love and care going into the development of each one. Supporting local tree farms means supporting the local economy -- from the farmers who grow the trees, to their staff, to the larger agricultural supply chain that helps make it all possible. In addition to creating community financial benefit, tree farms provide refuge for wildlife and create scenic green belts that might otherwise be developed. Christmas trees are often grown on soil that isn’t able to support other crops. From simple cut-your-own tree farms to larger operations offering free 28

——Fall/Winter

2019 • Volume 5——

Trees can be cut by visitors, or cut and bundled by staff members at Clark’s.


Clark’s Christmas Tree Farm and Christmas Shop has a full line of holiday decorations and accessories.

wagon rides, delicious seasonal treats and photos with Santa, Christmas tree farms across Chester County offer a wide range of holiday experiences for your family to choose from.

Clark’s Christmas Tree Farm and Christmas Shop Founded in 1998 by owner Bill Clark, Sr., Clark’s Christmas Tree Farm in Cochranville has always been about family. His daughter Becky and daughter-in-law Mia run the Christmas Shop, while one of his sons owns Clark Brothers Nursery, which does all the shearing of the trees and deliveries for tree wholesale orders. Visitors can take a wagon out into the fields to either cut their own tree or select from a wide range of Douglas fir, Fraser fir, Canaan fir, Korean fir and spruce trees across the 35-acre property. They offer sizes from three to 20 feet to accommodate any space. For the less manually inclined, tree farm staff are always happy to help visitors cut trees, which are wrapped and drilled for free for easy home installation. No visit to Clark’s would be complete without visiting their newly expanded, 2,000-square-foot Christmas shop, the largest in the area, which showcases over 50,000 seasonal decorations, including pieces from the Jim Shore Collection and Byers’ Choice. They are always looking for new holiday items to feature. The shop also offers a wide selection of nutcrackers, personalized ornaments, wreaths and pine roping. All children receive a gift from Santa, who is onsite to greet the public and pose for photos every weekend during the season. Clark is proud of the quality of the trees they grow, and that his farm has become a part of his customers’ holiday celebrations. “Our customers return year after year. We’re now seeing the third generation coming to get their trees and bringing their kids to meet Santa,” Clark said. Clark’s Tree Farm: 351 Pusey Mill Road, Cochranville, Pa., 19330 Continued on Page 30

——For

news and events visit WesternChesterCounty.com and ChescoWest.com——

29


Christmas Tree Farms Continued from Page 29

Westlake Tree Farms Gary Westlake of Westlake Tree Farms, a fourth generation tree farmer, says his customers return year after year because he and his staff make visitors feel like they are family. They work hard all year to make sure every visitor’s experience is one fit for a Hallmark holiday movie. “I am proud that we are an integral part of so many families’ holiday ‘treeditions,’” he said. Nestled deep in the woods down a long, treelined driveway just north of St. Pete’s Village, the farm looks like a vision from a Currier and Ives print. The vast, 160-acre property specializes in Fraser, concolor and Canaan fir trees due to their good form and longevity once cut. Visitors are encouraged to check the farm’s website for daily updates on what species, height and pre-cut/cut trees are available. No visit to Westlake Tree Farms is complete without indulging in at least one of their signature comfort foods, including their decadent mac n’ cheese grilled cheese sandwich and “Super Santa” hot chocolate. Visitors can also roast marshmallows around the bonfire, a great way to warm up on a chilly day. After a visit and photos with Santa, adults and children alike will marvel at Westlake’s elaborate train display in the lower level of the refurbished barn that currently houses the farm’s Christmas shop. Westlake Tree Farms: 2421 N. Hill Camp Road, Pottstown, PA 19465

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——Fall/Winter

Santa appears at Westlake Tree Farms in Pottstown each season.

2019 • Volume 5——


CT Farm Visitors in the western part of Chester County don’t have to go far off the beaten path to reach relative newcomer CT Farm. This local gem is located right off of Route 10 in Parkesburg. Charlie Meyer and his family planted their first trees in 2007 and opened their doors to the public in 2013. Their 18-acre farm has quickly become a popular destination due to the family-friendly atmosphere, outstanding tree quality and convenient location. Check out the farm’s Facebook page to see Meyer’s daughters’ popular “CT Farm cheers” video series for a preview of what visiting CT Farm is all about. Meyer is also quick to credit his wife Sally’s cookies for part of the farm’s success. “I think just as many people come for my wife’s cookies as they do our large selection of well-shaped trees,” Meyer said, laughing. CT Farm offers a wide range of trees up to 10 feet tall, including Fraser fir, Douglas fir, Balsam fir, Colorado blue spruce and the occasionally hard-to-find concolor

——For

CT Farm in Parkesburg is one of the newer Christmas tree farms in the region.

fir, celebrated for its exceptional fragrance. CT Farm Parkesburg: 175 S Church St., Parkesburg, Pa. 19365

news and events visit WesternChesterCounty.com and ChescoWest.com——

Continued on Page 32

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Christmas Tree Farms Continued from Page 31

Whether you are looking to spend an entire afternoon strolling through a winter wonderland or prefer just a quick trip to pick up a fresh, locally grown tree, there is a Christmas tree farm nearby with just the right amount of holiday atmosphere and entertainment perfect for you and your family. Here are a few other farms where you and your family can make memories while picking out the perfect holiday tree:

Bernard’s Tree Farm: 121 Barneston Rd., Honey Brook, Pa., 19344 Broad Run Tree Farm: 1169 Broad Run Rd., Coatesville, Pa., 19320 Collmann Christmas Tree Farm: 408 N. Manor Rd., Elverson, Pa., 19520 Marsh Creek Tree Farm: 301 Marsh Rd., Elverson, Pa., 19520 Tricolor Tree Farm: 1480 Hall Rd., West Chester, Pa., 19380 Wades Christmas Trees: 462 Trythall Rd., Elverson, Pa., 19520 Unlike plastic Christmas trees, real Christmas trees are biodegradeable, meaning they can be reused or recycled. Be sure to check whether or not your municipality offers a Christmas tree recycling program. At the end of the season, your tree could have a second life as useful playground mulch or compost. For more information, visit www.chesco.org/farmguide.

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——Fall/Winter

2019 • Volume 5——


Octorara Area Career & Technical Education Programs: Where careers begin

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Meet Our Member:

Carosella & Associates P.C. By Marcella Peyre-Ferry Staff Writer

general corporate, construction, immigration and intellectual property law. The firm is organized into severhen business owners are faced with al areas, and is large enough to handle legal questions, an attorney who complex cases, yet small enough to prohas experience as an entrepreneur vide personal attention to each client. can understand their needs and give advice When someone calls Carosella & Associates, from a business-world perspective. they will be connected with the staff member Vincent Carosella, Jr., founder of Carosella Vince Carosella, Jr. who is best qualified to handle their legal & Associates P.C., purchased a solid waste matter. The firm’s team philosophy offers the company in Philadelphia after earning his under- advantage of accessibility to their entire organizagraduate degree at Temple University. He built and tion of legal professionals who can combine skills improved that company before selling it and moving and experiences when necessary to solve a client’s on to run a plumbing, heating and air conditioning problems. firm while in law school. He has also owned an enviEveryone at Carosella & Associates makes an ronmental assessment company in Delaware County effort to counsel each client as if they were the only client. When you need advice, they provide and a heavy truck repair company. “I’ve seen just about everything a business owner it in plain English that is easy to comprehend. can see,” Carosella said. That includes all the stresses Attorney Christopher Amentas practices commercial, and frustrations that go along with operating a busi- construction, and civil litigation, real estate, zoning, ness, big or small. and municipal law. He is a former Chairman of the On the legal side, Carosella’s focus is on business Board of Supervisors of East Fallowfield Township, and and corporate law, as well as commercial and residen- has a unique perspective on how zoning and land use tial real estate, zoning, wills and trusts. He practiced at ordinances, procedures and laws impact construction a large Philadelphia law firm before forming his own and municipal clients on a local and statewide level. firm, 24 years ago, which brings big firm experience to Attorney Gary Thompson has over 25 years of experihis clients at the fee level of a smaller practice. ence in private practice, handling a variety of cases with Carosella can easily relate to the client who wants to a concentration in bankruptcy, commercial litigation, grow their business. “I know how to do it because I’ve and collection law as well as wills, trusts and estates. lived it,” he said. “The principles of every business are Attorney Timothy Trott’s practice areas include Social almost always the same.” Security, disability, criminal law, family law, and Carosella encourages people to get legal advice general litigation. He represents people and busiearly on in a business venture to avoid problems, rath- nesses in need of legal services in Chester, Delaware, er than waiting until issues arise. Business owners also Montgomery, Berks and Lancaster counties. have legal needs in their private lives, and Carosella & In addition to general matters, paralegal Katarina Associates can help there, too, such as immigration or Tkacova, with 15 years of experience, is particularly estate planning and trusts. helpful in the areas of business, corporate, trade mark, “It’s much less expensive to ask for advice than to immigration and environmental law. Paralegal Ginger hire an attorney after you’ve gotten into trouble and McGuire is well versed in general matters and estate you need help to fix it,” Carosella said. planning, with over 30 years of experience. Based in West Chester, the staff at Carosella & Carosella and Associates P.C. is located at Associates have intense business, commercial and 882 Matlack St., Suite 101, West Chester. litigation experience in many areas, including bankContact the firm by calling 610-431-3300 or visit ruptcy, litigation, commercial and residential real www.carosella.com. estate and zoning issues, mergers and acquisitions,

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2019 • Volume 5——


Western Chester County Life|

McMahon plans and engineers transportation solutions for today and the future

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omewhere, somehow, every person in Western Chester County comes into contact with one or more projects completed by McMahon Associates, Inc. McMahon is a traffic engineering and planning firm which opened its Chester County office in Exton nearly 20 years ago. When you consider what’s involved with commuting between home and work, getting the kids to school and after-school activities, or weekend travel, the network of local streets, highways, trails and transit that connect to get you there safely is stunning. When it works well, we really don’t take much notice of it, but when it doesn’t, everyone feels it. McMahon’s transportation experts on the planning, design and engineering frontlines are solving today’s transportation issues, and helping their clients and communities throughout the region make the transition to a future that will include better roads, more complete street corridors, support for

increased public transportation systems, expansion of connected trails and sidepaths, and even introducing driverless vehicles. One can’t work on this 20 years down the road. These decisions need to be researched and planned, and strategies for funding policy and implementation need to start today. Take a look at two prime examples of McMahon’s work that directly impact residents and businesses in Western Chester County with transportation changes along the Route 30 corridors. Route 30 Multimodal Transportation Study: Creating a Vision for Route 30 Multimodal is exactly that – accommodating all modes of transportation at a location – cars, trucks, buses, buggies, rail, planes, bicycles and pedestrian travel. McMahon led a team to develop a coordinated transportation and land use study for six municipalities Continued on Page 36

An overview of the Route 30 Bypass plan. ——For

news and events visit WesternChesterCounty.com and ChescoWest.com——

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Mc Mahon Continued from Page 35

along Route 30 in Western Chester County – including the City of Coatesville, Valley, West Sadsbury, Sadsbury, Valley, West Caln and Caln townships. The study built upon previous planning efforts, including initiatives led by the Western Chester County Chamber of Commerce. This study was completed to develop and shape a preferred vision for the Route 30 corridor in each area. Instead of each municipality trying to solve their local issues individually, they took a holistic approach to team up and work together to create a more cohesive, complementary and connected corridor in total, while still addressing the unique needs of each community. The study was supported by funding from the six sponsor municipalities, the Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission (DVRPC) and other project partners. McMahon worked closely with Western Chester County Chamber of Commerce staff and members to engage businesses and community members throughout the study process. Additionally, the study was closely coordinated with PennDOT’s US 30 Bypass Reconstruction program and over 15 active land development projects within the study area. “This study was a massive undertaking,” said Natasha

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Manbeck, P.E., AICP – McMahon Associates and Senior Project Manager on the project. “More than 200 people were involved in the planning process, including eight stakeholder interviews, seven Study Advisory Committee (SAC) meetings, three public meetings and two technical coordination meetings. On top of that, it was condensed to a 13-month schedule to fulfill grant funding requirements.” The team’s coordination and passion for the project made it all come together, and because of their efforts the final report was accepted by all six sponsor municipalities. The vision created by the study focused on being Cohesive, Complementary and Connected, and the following project goals were established: • Expand options and opportunities for jobs, housing, transportation and recreation; • Promote and preserve agriculture, open space, the Brandywine Creek, historic districts and structures, and local businesses; and • Leverage key assets, including the Chester County G.O. Carlson Airport and the Coatesville and Thorndale regional train stations. The municipalities involved in the study, Chester County,

2019 • Volume 5——


and the Western Chester County Chamber’s Regional Planning Committee have been working to implement the key recommendations from the study. The vision and goals have guided the development of plans for the US 30 Bypass interchange areas, Business 30 corridor, and regional trails that are currently being evaluated in more detail or implemented to bring this vision to life.

Planning to Reality: US 30 Bypass McMahon has a key role on the project team for PennDOT’s US 30 Bypass program – a series of projects that will upgrade the Coatesville-Downingtown Bypass to improve safety, reduce congestion, accommodate planned growth, improve facility deficiencies, and improve system connectivity. The facility was constructed in the 1950s and early 1960s. As anyone who has driven the Bypass knows, this is an important link in the regional transportation network connecting to key transportation arteries including Business US 30, US 322, PA 113, PA 340, PA 82 and PA 10. The first project within the program, which is currently underway, is construction of additional Intelligent

Improvements to Route 30 will mean a smoother driving experience as well as increased opportunities for commerce.

Transportation System (ITS) improvements along the U.S. 30 Bypass in Chester County and the connecting highway network. Motorists in the area will soon see crews installing dynamic message signs, closed circuit television (CCTV) cameras, travel time sensors, traffic signal upgrades, and installation of fiber optic cable to provide connectivity for these elements. This infrastructure will improve the response time for incidents in the area and provide more Continued on Page 38

HONEYBROOK Pennsylvania’s friendliest golf club is right here in Chester County. Public golf seven days a week

The GREENSIDE GRILL & PUB Innovative homemade cuisine with Chester County’s most beautiful view. Serving the public seven days a week.

HONEYBROOK GOLF CLUB & The GREENSIDE GRILL 1422 Cambridge Road Honey Brook PA 19344 (610) 273-0207 www.honeybrookgolf.com ——For

news and events visit WesternChesterCounty.com and ChescoWest.com——

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Mc Mahon Continued from Page 37

accurate travel time information to motorists. They will also be critical during the future construction phases of the program. The US 30 Bypass has been divided into four distinct transportation-improvement projects: • Business 30/PA 10 Project • Airport Road Project • PA 82 Project • Eastern Project (generally Reeceville Road to Business 30/Quarry Road) Each project will continue to move forward through the design and permitting process individually, but in close coordination with each other. Each project will have a unique schedule and timeline for final design and construction, based on the availability of funding and other factors to be determined as the projects progress. A public meeting was held on June 20 to review four interchange design alternatives and get feedback on the project. Currently, the project team is working to refine the alternatives and perform additional analysis for the Business 30/PA 10 and PA 82 projects at the western end of the corridor, and will soon begin similar work for the Eastern project.

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McMahon is responsible for all traffic operations analyses for the program to assess alternative design solutions for the future reconstruction of the freeway and its associated interchanges. The firm is also completing safety analyses throughout the program area, and leads the public outreach and stakeholder involvement efforts, including development and maintenance of the program’s website (www. us30-chesco.com). “This program is key to the transportation system in Western Chester County, as the US 30 Bypass is the highest traveled roadway in this part of the county,” said Nicole Kline-Elsier, P.E. PTOE Senior Project Manager for McMahon’s Route 30 Bypass project. “Completing all movements at the Airport Road and PA. 113 interchanges alone will have a transformative impact on commuting patterns, existing businesses, growth patterns, and future opportunities.” These are two highly visible and impactful projects in which McMahon is contributing to the success of the region and value-added changes to improve the efficiency and safety of the transportation systems around Western Chester County.

2019 • Volume 5——


You can shape the future of transportation in Western Chester County In all of McMahon’s projects, one of the most critical components for successful creation and implementation of the plan is public participation. McMahon remains focused on the important role of local citizens and regular area travelers in the discussion to improve the transportation experience. McMahon uses innovative tools and techniques to get this feedback -- from interactive public meetings where participants can actually lay out the way they want a corridor to look, to targeted online and paper surveys to get broader feedback from a wider population. “The planners and engineers at McMahon appreciate and respect the role of the community at these public meetings,” said Chris Williams, P.E., Regional Manager – MidAtlantic, McMahon Associates, Inc. “Our

——For

Public meetings have been an integral part of the planning process.

projects directly serve the public, and we encourage the community to be active in the discussion on transportation needs and solutions. It is important for the community to participate in the public process, and as regular users of the transportation system, the public’s insights are incredibly valuable to help shape a successful outcome.”

About McMahon Founded in 1976, McMahon Associates, Inc., is headquartered in Fort Washington and has more than 200 employees along the East Coast. The firm has been key in the planning and creation of many of Western Chester County’s transportation solutions and has enjoyed being part of the region’s growth for decades. For more information visit www.mcmahonassociates.com.

news and events visit WesternChesterCounty.com and ChescoWest.com——

39


News from the Parkesburg Action Committee: The Parkesburg Lamps

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he Parkesburg Action Committee works within Parkesburg to revitalize and grow the community. Part of our mission is to highlight the historic aspects of our town to keep them alive and help to set us apart from other small towns in our area. One of Parkesburg’s biggest pieces of history are the Parkesburg Lamps and the Paul Thomas Glass Works. The Parkesburg Lamps were manufactured in Parkesburg from 1936 to 1953. They were made by Paul Thomas in his manufacturing facility that was located at 160 First Ave. The location is currently a Planet Fitness (the old Acme shopping center) but the glass factory was right on the street and not set as far back as the current buildings. The lamp works occupied the first floor and basement. The main floor also housed three apartments, in which Mr. Thomas and his wife, mother and sister lived. Paul Thomas came to Parkesburg from West Chester, where he was a truck driver who had his sights set on buying and selling antiques to people in the area. He came upon the idea of making and selling light fixtures, and Paul Thomas Glass Works was born. The lamps created by Mr. Thomas had a marble base, a brass upright and then a beautiful glass globe piece. The glass piece is what really marks the nature of the Parkesburg Lamp. They were normally colored, pear shaped and were hand etched with designs that had been inspired from nature. Scenes of deer, flowers, stars and

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other natural motifs were used. The marble bases were originally sourced from Philadelphia in large slabs, but it is said that Mr. Thomas would scavenge marble from anywhere he could, even from old furniture out of the trash! In the early days, the marble pieces were cut by hand from the larger slabs by employees with a hacksaw. Later, when the demand for lamps increased, a machine was devised by employee Harry Robinson from an old car motor to cut the pieces more quickly. They also developed polishing and sanding devices to speed up manufacturing. The glass pieces, the real showstoppers of the lamps, were made from Czech glass that was imported in clear form. The company worked diligently to come up with a way to get the clear glass to become colored. Harry Robinson built an electric kiln for just this purpose. Paul Thomas would spray the clear glass with gold from a spray gun and then closely watch the piece in the kiln. By trial and error of temperature and time, he was able to achieve a ruby red finish. The color was striking and they continued manufacturing in this manner, even adding golden amber, cobalt and light blue, and a beautiful cranberry red color. The lamps were very popular in their time and Clark Gable was one of Mr. Thomas’ most notable customers, as he loved the lamps and owned quite a few of them. A signed check from Mr. Gable hung on the wall in the main office at the factory.

2019 • Volume 5——


The story of the lamps took a sad turn on Dec. 17, 1953, when the building caught fire. Mr. Thomas was out of town on a business trip to Lancaster at the time. His employees had been busy that morning packing and shipping Christmas orders when the fire was discovered. The building had been insulated with sawdust in the ceilings and walls and this caused the fire to spread rapidly. Fighting the fire was brutal in the freezing cold temperatures and the high winds that day, and it took eight companies and a staff of over 150 fire fighters to extinguish the blaze. Newspaper stories about the incident report that the winds were so high that flames and smoke were whipping across an open lot to the east of the building. Parkesburg

residents from the time say that the smoke was so thick through the borough that day that it was sometimes hard to see past their own yards. Four firemen sustained injuries and required medical help. There were no fatalities, but the fire consumed and destroyed most of the building, the entire business and the Thomas’ residences. Water and smoke damage finished what the fire had not. It was reported that a faulty oil burner in the basement caused the fire, but that was proven to be untrue during the investigation from the Fire Underwriters. The final opinion on the cause of the fire was not reported in newspapers from the time. After the fire, Paul Thomas did not reopen the company. The loss was estimated to be over $50,000. Mr. Thomas and his family moved to Florida and he is believed to have been in the real estate business. There are no reports of Mr. Thomas’ life after the company was destroyed and he moved from the area. The Parkesburg Lamps are now highly sought after and a number of local residents have collected pieces over the years and offer them for sale. You can follow Parkesburg Lamps on Facebook and the Facebook group Paul Thomas Glass Works to find beautiful pieces for sale. A few lamps are available at The Shoppes at Whitehorse Mill and at Morgantown Market. And sometimes you might be lucky enough to find them in consignment or thrift stores in the area as some people do not know the treasure which they have donated! Information for this article was found from local newspaper reports, word of mouth from local residents and from an article written by Hugh Douglas for the Octorara Area Historical Society. Thanks must be sent out to the Wilde family for supplying newspaper clippings and information.

——For

news and events visit WesternChesterCounty.com and ChescoWest.com——

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Meet Our Member:

Thorndale’s Academy Sports Complex brings athletes in from cold … and heat By Natalie Smith Staff Writer

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racticing or training for field sports outside during Southeastern Pennsylvania’s seasonal extremes can be frustrating for both players and coaches. A severe temperature change or torrential downpour can certainly have an effect on getting the best out of a team. But in Thorndale, there’s a two-story indoor facility that can accommodate all field sports ranging from soccer to lacrosse to cricket. Baseball, softball, football and Frisbee football have found homes there, too. Academy Sports Complex, at 3527 Lincoln Highway, is the brainchild of Michael Rudy, who with wife and business partner Elizabeth, owns the 2-story 36,300-square-foot center that opened in 2017. The inspiration for ASC started with Little League, Rudy said. He’s a successful CPA, and behind his office are the Caln Athletic Association ballfields. “I see the baseballsoftball fields every day,” he said. “So one day I thought, ‘There’s no place where a baseball team, a softball team, can have batting practice and infield practice on a regulation size field.” In 1997, Rudy and Elizabeth had purchased the lot next to his office, and had been considering different business ventures there -- in the meantime donating it every holiday season for use as a fundraising Christmas tree lot to benefit a local soccer club. On board as ASC’s director of business development is Rob Smith, who’s well known in the soccer community. Among his past experience: having coached the Downingtown High School (West) girls; president and coach of the F C DELCO and also served as a vice president of soccer development for the Philadelphia Union. Rudy ran down some of the reasons ASC is the premier indoor practice and training facility for field sports in Chester County. “Academy Sports houses the best artificial turf on three fields. We have the entire second floor, which is a little bit larger than a traditional indoor soccer field.” he said. “And we have a lower-level turf field that has a rebounding wall.” For baseball and softball players, there are seven configurable batting cages. “The batting cages are very versatile here,” Rudy said, with Jugs Sports pitching machines that 42

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Courtesy photos

Michael and Elizabeth Rudy held a ribbon cutting of their Academy Sports Complex for its 2017 opening in Thorndale, Caln. Pictured from left are daughter Jordan Rudy; Michael and Elizabeth Rudy; and former state Rep Harry Lewis Jr (R-74).

will accommodate a high-arc slow pitch. “Our facility is temperature-controlled year-round. During the wintertime, it could be 10 degrees below outside, but it’s nice and warm inside,” he said. “When it’s hot and humid out, the humidity is under check and the temperature is probably anywhere from 73 to 74 inside.” Rudy grew up in West Chester playing soccer, and maintains his passion for the game by continuing in adult leagues. As a father whose three children are athletic and as someone who’s coached soccer, Rudy knows how hard Pennsylvania weather can be on young athletes. Temperate playing fields are just the start at Academy Sports Complex. A number of coaches have told Rudy that practicing at ASC is proving to be a great complement to outdoor practices. “The coaches have also said, comparing it to outdoors or any other indoor facility, they’ve noticed that they don’t feel like they’re in a fishbowl, with outside eyes looking at their teams. And they’ve noticed that their players are much more attentive to their direction, and as a result, their practices have been run more efficiently.” For those wanting to work on personal health, ASC offers two programs that span ages and fitness levels. Earlier this year, Mike partnered with Eric Mitchell to bring the Training for Warriors (TFW) systems and The Parisi Speed School into Academy Sports.

2019 • Volume 5——


Training for Warriors is a program that focuses on strength-building, fat-burning and building confidence. But it offers a lot more to its members. “It’s an extremely positive environment,” Smith said. Unlike many gyms or group fitness classes, members are considered a family, and the resulting encouragement they give one another helps them along and keeps them returning. “The participants are engaged in a healthy, positive outlook towards other people in the class and helping them,” Smith said. Rudy said an important part of Academy Sport’s mission is to ensure that underserved children are able to participate. “There’s a huge population of kids in the area that don’t have the same benefit as those kids who are playing travel sports,” he said. “We want to give every kid the same opportunity to be able to practice and train at the sport that they are very

The artificial turf fields at Academy Sports Complex can support any field sport, including girls lacrosse.

passionate about. Unfortunately, a lot of kids don’t have the financial means to be able to do that.” ASC has established a non-profit called ABLE -- Athletic Betterment Leadership Experience -- that works with the JT Dorsey Foundation to provide opportunities for those kids. Natalie Smith may be contacted at natalie@ DoubleSMedia.com.

Rob Smith, Jr., is director of business development for Academy Sports Complex. His background includes being a Downingtown Area School District girls soccer coach and serving as a vice president for the Philadelphia Union.

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news and events visit WesternChesterCounty.com and ChescoWest.com——

43


Western Chester County Life|

Chester County Council of Boy Scouts thrilled to open doors to scouting for girls All photos courtesy of Chester County Council

Since girls were welcomed into the Boy Scouts in February, 20,000 girls have joined Scouts BSA and 2,500 girl troops have been started.

Scouts USA: The legacy of a youth institution adds another chapter By Richard L. Gaw Staff Writer

S

ince 1971, the Boy Scouts of America (BSA) has been welcoming young women into its Venturing, Exploring, Sea Scouts and STEM Scouts programs. This past February, however, the BSA broadened that sense of inclusion by welcoming young women from the ages of 11 to 17 to one of our nation’s most prestigious programs of character and leadership development – and in the process, it changed its name to Scouts BSA. The announcement came on the heels of an October 2017 unanimous decision by the BSA Board of Directors

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——Fall/Winter

unanimously to welcome girls into its Cub Scout program which permits girls to participate in the same activities their male counterparts do. For many young women, the opportunity to join Scouts BSA comes after decades and generations of standing on the sidelines, watching their brothers enjoy hikes, campouts and canoe trips, but with the decision to permit girls into the program and give them their own troops, the playing field is now completely level, giving girls the same opportunities to earn the same merit badges – as well as the prestigious Eagle Scout ranking -- and achieve the same advancements that boys have earned for more than a century.

2019 • Volume 5——


Scouts USA Troop 19 in Marshallton recently spent a week at Camp Ware in Peach Bottom, Pa.

The BSA will celebrate its inaugural class of female Eagle Scouts in 2020. “I could not be more excited for what this means for the next generation of leaders in our nation,” said Scouts USA Chief Scout Executive Michael B. Surbaugh. “Through Scouts BSA, more young people than ever before – young women and men – will get to experience the benefits of camaraderie, confidence, resilience, trustworthiness, courage and kindness through a time-tested program that has been proven to

This camp was the first time the Chester County Council of Boy Scouts hosted both male and female scout groups.

Continued on Page 46

The Chester Delaware County Farm Bureau advocates for farmers and the rural community Support local agriculture and farmers, and enjoy all the benefits and Member Discounts by joining Farm Bureau today!

JOIN as a NEW Regular Member before Nov 22nd, 2019 and be entered into our drawing for $75 Visa gift card! Email: ChesterCountyFarmBureau@gmail.com Phone: 610-932-7363 www.ChesterDelawareCountyFarmBureau.com ——For

news and events visit WesternChesterCounty.com and ChescoWest.com——

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Scouts USA Continued from Page 45

build character and leadership.� “At the same time this initiative was being discussed at the national level, we were considering this for our scouting families,� said Jeffrey Spencer, scout executive and chief executive officer for the Chester County Council of Boy Scouts. “We listened to our constituents, our families and our volunteers and thought, ‘What do you think?’ Overwhelmingly, the message came back positive. “People told us that they wanted to experience scouting as an entire family, not just for their sons but for their daughters.� Begun in 1919 and headquartered in Exton, the Chester County Council, serves all of Chester County and the northwestern corner of Cecil County, Md., in partnership with over 100 community organizations. Currently, it has 5,700 youth members and 2,600 adult volunteers. Since girls were welcomed into the Boy Scouts in February, Spencer said that nationally, 20,000 girls have joined Scouts BSA and 2,500 girl troops have been started. “We’ve begun six girl troops so far and enrolled 50 girls, and anticipate that those numbers will double by the end of

the year,� Spencer said. “Any time you introduce something new to a paradigm that’s been one way for 100 years, there will be some who disagree with that path, but for the most part, this concept has been embraced.� “This decision is true to the BSA’s mission and core values outlined in the Scout Oath and Law. The values of Scouting – trustworthy, loyal, helpful, kind, brave and reverent, for example – are important for both young men and women,� Surbaugh said. “We believe it is critical to evolve how our programs meet the needs of families interested in positive and lifelong experiences for their children. We strive to bring what our organization does best – developing character and leadership for young people – to as many families and youth as possible as we help shape the next generation of leaders.� The inclusion of young women in Scouts BSA also provides opportunities in areas underserved by scouting, such as the Hispanic and Asian communities, who prefer to participate in activities as a family. Recent surveys of parents not involved with scouting showed high interest in getting their daughters signed up for programs like Cub Scouts and

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West Chester: 610.235.4700

ď śâ€”â€”Fall/Winter

2019 • Volume 5â€”â€”ď ś


Boy Scouts, with 90 percent expressing interest in a program like Cub Scouts and 87 percent expressing interest in a program like Boy Scouts. Education experts also evaluated the curriculum and content and confirmed relevancy of the program for young women. “The time is now, and I’m excited that we can offer this program to boys and girls, Spencer said. “It’s important to know that the program has not changed to accommodate girls, but holds on to the same values and the leadership skills that it always has had, which can now be equally applied to both boys and girls. “When a girl achieves the rank of Eagle Scout, she will get there by accomplishing everything a boy will do,” he added. “While there are those who may see it differently, we see this change as a reflection and extension of our ideals, incorporated into a youth program.” To learn more about The Boy Scouts of America, or Scouts BSA, visit www.Scouting.

——For

The Chester County Council currently has six girl troops, and about 50 girls enrolled in the scout program.

org/family scouting. To find a scouting group in your community, or to learn more about scouting throughout Chester County, visit www. cccbsa.org. To contact Staff Writer Richard L. Gaw, email rgaw@chestercounty. com.

news and events visit WesternChesterCounty.com and ChescoWest.com——

47


People are the economy’s (and CCEDC’s) most important asset The people behind any organization are their most valuable assets. Nowhere is that truer than at the Chester County Economic Development Council (CCEDC). Over the course of our 60-year existence, we have been fortunate to have had hundreds of dedicated board members, thousands of generous investors, and countless committed volunteers supporting the services provided by our passionate and loyal staff. Our services to the business community have been showcased and recognized by many. Our ability to help organizations with their finance/capital needs, locations and site support, and connections to qualified, quality workers ranks among the best in the region and state.

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Led by our President and CEO, Gary W. Smith, who has been with the company for more than 40 years, CCEDC has achieved many milestones. In the past 10 years alone, the organization has accomplished the following: • 351 projects were funded through our Seedcopa team for more than $285,000,000 • 221 projects were funded with grants from the federal, state and local sources • 113 Next Generation Farm Loans were processed for $44,265,000 • 76 workforce development projects were supported with grants totaling $11,243,648 • 48 tax-exempt projects were financed at a total of $1,247,338,696

2019 • Volume 5——


We look forward to addressing the needs of Chester County businesses in the future, whether it be the impact of technological advances on employees, the smart development growth of our key corridors of opportunity, or critical career guidance and exploration of the future workforce. Our thanks to all who have supported and invested in our efforts.

——For

If you would like to learn more about CCEDC or better yet, become one of the people we can help with our programs and initiatives, visit us online at www.ccedcpa.com or contact Marybeth DiVincenzo at 610-321-8228.

news and events visit WesternChesterCounty.com and ChescoWest.com——

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Meet Our Member:

Chester County Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired By Nancy Wilson CCABVI Board Member

T

he Chester County Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired (CCABVI) started providing services in 1948. In those 71 years, the organization was led by only three different Executive Directors, all whom had a special passion for the CCABVI’s mission. Now the position is open again and the organization believes, “The fourth needs to be special as well!” The journey started in 1948, when Reginald Henry founded the Chester County Branch of the Pennsylvania Association for the Blind, originally located on Lincoln Highway in Coatesville. Since then, the organization has continued to promote the adjustment, self-reliance, independence and dignity of visually impaired individuals while instilling the philosophy that the visually impaired can live normal lives, regardless of their degree of sight. Reginald was joined in 1950 by his wife, Alice Henry, who took on the position of the rehabilitation teacher. Together, they worked to advance training and employment opportunities for the blind, as they knew the challenges these individuals faced in our community. Reginald had lost his sight at the age of 16, however, he did not let that hinder his education. He went on to graduate from the Overbrook School for the Blind and the University of Pennsylvania. Alice lost her sight from a childhood illness, yet went on to attend Massachusetts schools before completing the home teaching program at Overbrook School for the Blind in Philadelphia, and ultimately teaching at the Delaware County Branch of the Pennsylvania Association for the Blind. The year 1952 saw great advances for the organization as it incorporated as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit and purchased the house at 71 S. First Ave. in Coatesville. The house was originally built for the granddaughter of the owners of Lukens Steel. It held a workshop in the basement and another on the third floor, yet the space was limited. The organization set their sights on advancement. In 1967, a 4,500-square-foot workshop was added, with notable features to aid individuals who are blind or visually impaired. Anita Cavuto arrived at CCABVI in 1950 as a high school student, prepared to contribute her time to the organization. Her continued dedication led her to rise as the second Executive Director in 1980. Anita was a beloved member of the community and served in this position for 65 years, including through the 2008 recession which hit the organization hard, until her retirement in the end of 2015. The following year, the torch was passed to the third Executive Director, Robert (Bob) L. Milliken. When Anita Cavuto announced her retirement, Bob was on the

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Photos by Aleesha Nicole Photography, Downingtown

Founders’ daughters, Eileen Condron and Marie Henry, at the July 9 Open House with Aaron Thomas from the office of the Rep. Chrissy Houlahan.

Lions District Governor for Chester and Berks counties, Marilyn Wagner, presented Bob Milliken with a Melvin Jones Fellow Award, among the highest Lions Club awards recognizing service.

More than 60 people gathered to honor Robert Milliken (center) on July 9 during an Open House at CCABVI.

2019 • Volume 5——


CCABVI board and no stranger to and Visually impaired that meets the working on behalf of the blind and second Wednesday of every month visually impaired. He agreed to step (from September through June, plus forward to temporarily fill the manan August trip to the Reading Phillies) agement need. However, Bob ended at the Olivet United Methodist Church up serving as a full-time pro-bono in Coatesville. Director for three and a half years. He The Association’s Board President, entered the position just as an indeTracey Melia, said, “Bob was mullpendent CPA review stated, “certain ing retirement from CCABVI a year conditions indicated the Association ago. The current CCABVI Board of may be unable to continue as a going Directors is grateful that he gave The workshop at CCABVI is a light-filled space with us the extra time to reposition for concern.” The issues were many as the avail- plenty of interaction while getting the job done. the future which includes offering able funds had decreased, along with enhanced vision support services to workshop material inventory. Without inventory, the indi- our nearly 500 clients who are trying to remain indepenviduals engaged in the program could not do their job of dent in their own homes. Reginald and Alice Henry’s manufacturing textile products for the National Industries daughters, Marie Henry and Eileen Condron, came to the for the Blind (NIB) suppliers, which in turn sold the items to July 9 Open House and celebration for Bob’s retirement. the military for commissary stores and post exchange base They had been following Bob’s progress. I could tell they stores. have been pleased with how he has cared for CCABVI and Trained as a mechanical engineer, Bob felt he was up to brought it back from the brink.” the challenge of getting the workshop issues and the building’s growing safety concerns resolved. The organization is About the Chester County Association for the Blind and not a government agency, although it is often perceived as Visually Impaired such, so Bob needed to find resources to assist the organizaCCABVI does not just employ individuals who are blind tion. He was able to keep CCABVI alive by improving safety or visually impaired. It provides them with an environment throughout the facility, stabilizing the workshop and build- to learn new skills, build confidence and come to undering the organization into one of the best National Industries stand they can continue being a valuable asset within our for the Blind (NIB) suppliers. Today, the workshop manu- communities. As part of our commitment, CCABVI is a parfactures kitchen towels, pot holders, oven mitts, ironing ticipant with the VA’s program providing work restoration board covers, laundry bags, golf towels and helmet liners, opportunities for veterans who are vision impaired. all while providing the attendees with a safe environment The organization promotes the independence and digto learn new skills. The workshop employees enjoy provid- nity of Chester County individuals who are vision impaired ing local businesses and organizations with special-order through public awareness, advocacy, home visitation, products. independence skills training, informational support groups, Even before taking the position as Executive Director, referrals, and employment. CCABVI seeks to stave off preBob was already used to stepping forward; he was a Navy ventable blindness by promoting Lions Clubs’ screening of Petty Officer 1st Class from 1962 through 1970, with two preschool children through the Lions KidSight program, and of those years during the Vietnam conflict. He served on by building awareness of safeguarding vision from accithe Regional Planning Committee of the Western Chester dents and eye diseases in our community-focused efforts. County Chamber of Commerce, participated in the Masons CCABVI is across First Avenue from the former Lukens and Scottish Rite, served as President of the King of Prussia Steel Company headquarters in Coatesville, and next Chapter of the American Society of Highway Engineers and door to the Graystone Mansion, which now hosts as the Coatesville Lions Club President. the Harcum College evening program. The workshop Bob has engaged in the community as a Boy Scout leader entrance is across from the new Coatesville City Hall and as a swim competition official. He is currently a Trustee and District Courthouse. Call to arrange a tour or to of the Olivet Methodist Church at Third and Chestnut learn about CCABVI services at 610-384-2767. streets, where the church serves an open lunch for the community every Wednesday. Bob enlisted the skills he CCABVI is a 501(c)(3) non-profit corporation. had used through his many positions to uplift the CCABVI, EIN # 23-140149. Pennsylvania non-profit Registration including his organization of a support group for the Blind Certificate # 1316 ——For

news and events visit WesternChesterCounty.com and ChescoWest.com——

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News from the Honey Brook Community Partnership By Reuben Schonebaum

on the borough’s lampposts to welcome people to Honey hat happens in Brook. The Partnership gives the fall and winan annual donation to the ter, besides leaves Honey Brook Women’s Club turning and snow falling? In to help with the purchase or Honey Brook, it’s a time to replacement of the banners. have fun at a Country Fair, They are changed four times listen to bluegrass music, hunt a year to coincide with the for bargains at lots of yard seasons. sales, attend a parade, and The Honey Brook decorate for the holidays. Community Partnership coorEvery afternoon/evening dinates the annual Make A from Sept. 11 to 14, the Honey Difference Day, which is Brook Community Partnership held on the fourth Saturday in will present its Country Fair, October. Last year, the Honey featuring the “Tons of Fun” Make a Difference Day will focus on the ‘Under 4’ Project at the Brook Food Bank and resicarnival, with a wide variety Honey Brook Food Pantry. dents of the Veterans Hospital of children’s and adult rides, a were beneficiaries of the progood selection of games, and foods, like funnel cakes and gram. This year, Make A Difference Day will focus on cotton candy, to enjoy. The rides and food booths will donations of items for the “Under 4” Project at the Honey be in the parking lot across the street from the Long Way Brook Food Pantry. Home, and the Honey Brook Fire Department. Come one The “Under 4” Project aims to help ward off the potenand all and enjoy the festive atmosphere! tially devastating consequences of inadequate nutrition The final concert of the Honey Brook Borough sum- in the early years of life. Among other things, the program mer series will be held on Sunday, Sept. 15 from 5:30 provides infant formula for babies not being breast fed, to 8 p.m., when Serene Green performs in the Borough baby foods for all stages in the first year of life and foods Park. Serene Green is the collective musical vision of suitable for toddlers. Parents also are given instruction on Pennsylvania natives Quentin Fisher, Michael Johnson, how to use fresh produce to make their own baby foods. Shane McGeehan, and Steve Leonard. The band’s pasBeyond food, the program also encourages reading to sion for playing together comes from a deep love for children and provides free books at each distribution. traditional bluegrass music. The park is at 71 Pequea Look to the Partnership’s website, www.hbpartnership. Avenue (Route 10), behind the Honey Brook Post Office org, for an announcement of the items to be collected and Honey Brook Borough Hall. Concertgoers are and the locations of collection sites. encouraged to bring chairs, blankets and picnic baskets. The Borough’s Halloween Parade will set off at 7 p.m. On Saturday, Sept. 21, the Honey Brook Community on Monday, Oct. 28. The parade will have floats sponPartnership will present Harmony Day, celebrating the sored by local businesses, as well as residents in their hospitable character of our community. Harmony Day most imaginative Halloween regalia. Trick-or-treating activities will include a Public Health and Wellness Fair, generally precedes the parade. Parents are encouraged with a chance to win a prize by completing a Health to accompany their children. Fair Passport. There will be dozens of yard sales at the The Christmas tree at the Borough Building will be lit at library and around town, as well as food and fun in the 7 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 8. Borough Park. The Partnership will again sponsor “Deck the Brook,” an You may have noticed the street banners that are hung annual program where local businesses and community

W

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2019 • Volume 5——


residents participate in decorating their offices and homes to join in celebrating the holiday season. Most people start decorating the day after Thanksgiving; judging and online voting for the best decorations will begin on Dec. 13 and run through Dec. 19. Winners will be announced on Dec. 20. The Partnership also will participate in “Christmas in Honey Brook,” which is sponsored by local businesses. It provides an opportunity to do all your holiday shopping in one day, and get discounts and free gifts, as well. The Honey Brook Community Partnership was founded in 2008 to bring together borough and township partners to facilitate communication, share resources, and work together to enhance the community. The Partnership’s vision is to support a thriving main street, maintain safe neighborhoods, preserve historical elements, and sustain Honey Brook’s rural charm. The Partnership includes an energetic mix of former and current public officials, representatives of retirement communities, members of service organizations and local churches, and resident volunteers. Membership in the Community Partnership is an excellent way to enhance the visibility of a business or organization. Details about becoming a Community Partner are available at the Partnership’s website: https://www.hbpartnership.org.

——For

Serene Green plays traditional music on Sept. 15 in the Borough Park.

The Tons of Fun Carnival will be held from Sept. 11 to 14.

news and events visit WesternChesterCounty.com and ChescoWest.com——

53


Meet Our Member:

Treating customers ‘like family’ is key at Breuninger Insurance By Natalie Smith Staff Writer

E

nsuring that residents and businesses in and around Coatesville are protected in the wake of both big and small misfortunes has been the Breuninger Insurance agency’s mission for more than seven decades. “We’ve had customers with us for more than 50 years,” said Frank F. “Chip” Breuninger, Jr., agency principal and son of the late founder, F. Fredrick Breuninger. And clients’ satisfaction with their coverage has been passed down, from parent to child and ultimately, to grandchild. “New homeowners, new drivers … we’ve insured a lot of local families over the years,” he said. For those seeking a policy, Breuninger Insurance directly represents more than a dozen different companies, including Westfield, Travelers, Nationwide and Progressive, and is licensed to do business in nearly 20 states. “But we have access through brokers to deal with hundreds of companies, both commercial and personal,” added CFO Maureen Breuninger, a licensed agent and Certified Insurance Service representative. She started working at the agency in September 1973, not long after she and Chip were married. “It was supposed to be an interim job,” Chip said with a laugh. “It’s been the longest interim job in history.” Matching a client with the perfect policy comes from agency skill and experience. “We might have two companies that are exactly the same, but recommend one company over the other because of the way they serve a young family, or the way they look at older individuals, or the way they look at people who drive further to work,” Breuninger said. “There’re a lot of different factors. What’s the claim service? How easy is it for us to do business? It all comes into our recommendation to give you the best policy and best program for your individual needs.” The agency began with F. Frederick “Fred” Breuninger, Sr., who, after gaining experience at another insurance agency for a few years, opened his own Coatesville real estate and insurance agency in 1949. “His first office was in a building owned by his father,” Breuninger said about his father, “then he moved into the lobby of what was the First National Bank of Coatesville, which is now the [City Clock Apartments] in town.” But 54

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Photo by Natalie Smith

Leading the Breuninger Insurance agency are (from left) Joseph S. Regenski III, agency president; Maureen Breuninger, chief financial officer; and Frank F. Breuninger Jr., agency principal.

Fred’s Sr.’s business probably was best known after he made his next move in 1960 to the building at 317 East Lincoln Highway. Fred Breuninger wasn’t alone in his ambitions or work ethic. In 1963, wife Sally joined him in the business as an independent agent, one of the first women in the area to earn that designation. After a stint at her own agency in Parkesburg in 1966, she returned to Coatesville in 1971. The Breuninger agency did business there for almost 30 years before the decision in 1989 to relocate to its current site at 1140 West Lincoln Highway. The moving of the business to this location seemed serendipitous. Chip discovered during final settlement and a deed search that his great-grandfather, August Paul Breuninger, a Coatesville baker, owned the property from 1885 to 1915. “So it really was a coming home,” he said, noting his family traces its Coatesville roots to the 1860s. Fred Breuninger was well-known in the Coatesville community for his outgoing personality, the high quality of his service and the resulting longevity of the business. And although the elder Breuninger passed away in 2017, his son, who joined the business in 1977, had been carrying on the agency’s tenet of “treating customers like family.” Breuninger said that the personal response to claims is

2019 • Volume 5——


Photo by Natalie Smith

among his agency’s practices that customers appreciate. “I think one of the big mistakes the insurance industry makes is that [the clients are provided] with a policy and then at time of claim many agents say, ‘Here’s an 800-number. You have to call the claim in yourself.’” Breuninger Insurance takes a different tack. “If you have a problem, you’re going to see us. If you’ve had a fire in the kitchen, either myself, or Joe, another person on staff, will actually go out to see you. An insurance policy is simply a written document that says, ‘If something bad happens, we’re going to be there.’ So why wouldn’t we be?” Having an agency which gets the ball rolling after a tragedy can be a boon, especially for any policy-holder who needs some extra help at the time of a loss. “A client was on vacation when their house burned down before they were able to get home,” Chip said as an example. “We had already arranged for substitute living quarters; we contacted the adjusters and contractors before they got home. That’s just the way insurance should operate.” The familial legacy continues with Joseph Regenski III, who serves as the agency’s president and is the Breuningers’ son-in-law, married to their daughter Julie. Joe joined the company 15 years ago and is licensed in property, casualty, life and health insurance. He has also attained his Certified Insurance Counselor designation. Chip gave Joe kudos for his ability to comprehend and absorb the finer points of what can be a complex industry. “I’ve had good teachers,” Regenski said, smiling. The agency president also “took us into the 21st century, technology-wise,” Breuninger said, notably overseeing the mammoth task of helping the agency go paperless, dealing with files dating to the 1950s. The insurance landscape has changed somewhat over the years, Breuninger said, for both personal and commercial policies. “Ten years ago, you never heard of cyber liability. Identity theft was not a problem. We didn’t have the global exposure. But we recently provided a shipping [policy] for a company that was going through China to Russia and we had helped them plot a route that did not go through embargoed countries. Because if a loss occurred in an embargoed country, there was no coverage.” The Breuningers give their agency’s staff high marks for their breadth of knowledge, competence and compassion. Clients coming in will get a big greeting and “some of the older people like to come in just to chat,” Maureen Breuninger said. Two staffers, Charlynn Weaver and Kim Milanese, have been with Breuninger Insurance since 1978 and 1985, respectively. Other employees – Meredith Nussbaumer, Heather Fuller, Meredith Warner, Laurie Stott and Audrey Cooper – have worked at the agency from four to 20 years. Chip Breuninger summed up their familial business approach, that’s simple, but effective: “It’s just treating people the way you want to be treated yourself.” Natalie Smith may be contacted at natalie@DoubleSMedia.com ——For

After 30 years, the Breuninger Insurance agency in 1989 moved from downtown Coatesville to 1140 West Lincoln Highway. The property coincidentally turned out to have at one time belonged to a great-grandfather, August Paul Breuninger.

Photo courtesy of Maureen Breuninger

F. Frederick “Fred” Breuninger Sr. (left) started his own insurance and real estate agency in Coatesville in 1949. He eventually opened an office on East Lincoln Highway in 1960, and in 1963 was joined by his wife, Sally, who was one of the first female licensed insurance agents in the area.

Photo courtesy of Maureen Breuninger

The Breuningers got their start at the Breuninger Real Estate and Insurance Agency, which was located at 317 East Lincoln Highway from 1960 to 1989.

news and events visit WesternChesterCounty.com and ChescoWest.com——

55


Western Chester County Life|

Highland Orchards: Growing for the community By Rachel Cathell Western Chester County Chamber Communications Coordinator

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n 1941, John and Rachel Webster purchased a farmstead of approximately 100 acres, home to a sprawling apple orchard nestled along Marshallton-Thorndale Road, outside West Chester. This original farmstead continues today as Highland Orchards, maintained for the past 78 years by a multi-generational family of farmers. In the beginning, the Websters were no strangers to harvesting their own crops. In addition to the Pennsylvania property, they owned a farm in Wilmington, Delaware, also named Highland Orchards, which is still active today and still in the family. Busy cultivating the land, the Websters may have not imagined that their Pennsylvania orchard would grow into the community destination it is today. The founding couple passed the reins of the farm to their daughter, Elizabeth, and her husband, Robert Hodge. Elizabeth and Robert expanded the property, cultivated peaches, raised cattle and added a strawberry patch in the early 1960s. Soon Appleville, a housing community, was constructed on the property and a roadside market made its debut. Bruce, David and Alan Hodge, the sons of Elizabeth and Robert, alongside Stuart Constable, were the next in line to take charge, and did they ever. Today there are approximately 200 acres used in production, with apples, peaches and strawberries being the major crops, followed by rhubarb, cherries, nectarines, pears, raspberries, blueberries, blackberries, sweet corn and pumpkins. The orchard has 56

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Photos by Elizabeth & Robert Hodge during the late 1950’s. 2019 • Volume 5——


expanded to be a bustling farm market, pick-your-own crops location, a bakery, and a fall festival hot spot. With its growing team and an expanding business came another avenue -- a division of Highland Orchards formed into a paving and excavation service. This division of the business prides itself on being the very best, and the family treats each and every project with the same careful attention to detail given to the land. The division does residential driveways, driveway expansions, commercial parking lots, new construction, resurfacing, asphalt repairs and walking paths. Alan Hodge, Business Manager, said, “It takes communication and cooperation for all of the facets of the Highland Orchards business to work together.” Driven by a passion for continuing the family business and to serving the local community, the Highland team is always making improvements to better accommodate visitors and customers. Alan Hodge said, “Every day is different, and the tasks and challenges are seasonal and weather dependent.” Visitors to Highland will discover the charming farm market, which brims with fruit grown on the premises, freshbaked pies and award-winning apple cider donuts, which pair exceptionally well with the orchard’s signature apple cider. Neatly displayed aisles offer a wide selection of produce, dairy products, local honey, coffee, jelly, flowers and more items locally sourced from partnering growers and vendors in the surrounding community. “Our market staff is continually adjusting displays to accommodate the diversity of produce,” Alan said. “There always seems to be something in season!” Depending on which crop is in season, the orchard hosts festivals and activities specific to that crop. The Fall Festival is a guest favorite. As the leaves turn colors and the pumpkins grow round, the orchard busies itself

for apple and pumpkin picking, hayrides, the kid corral and a whimsical hay bale maze. Even as the seasons shift, the farm does not slow down. December brings Santa and Mrs. Claus, ornament making and cookie decorating. Spring brings the Easter Bunny to the farm, along with a pancake breakfast and the start of the pick-your-own season, which allows visitors to harvest crops directly from the orchards and berry patches. A community yard sale pops up in May, along with the Levante Beer Garden, running from 1pm-7pm Fridays and 11am-7pm Saturdays and Sundays from late May to Labor Day. As the weather heats up, so does Highland, with the Strawberry Harvest Celebration and Bluegrass Festival in June, BBQ days with local vendors, and the Peach and Sweet Corn Harvest Celebration in August. Since agriculture beats as the heart of Highland Orchards, the business was inspired to cultivate a Farm Tour Program. Alan explained, “This program explores and addresses the processes of agricultural practices and its environmental impact.” This education piece is designed for preschool and elementary-age children, but also can accommodate adults and individuals with disabilities. In addition, field trips and birthday parties are popular at the orchard, and with the long line of farmers on staff, the insight to agriculture is boundless. Children can also tap into Craft Time, Storytime, Making Music and Treehouse Yoga on weekday mornings in spring and summer. As the saying goes, it takes a village. Alan cites his team as the driving force. “Much time, money, and effort are used in producing the quality crops our customers are seeking,” he said. “The team works together to offer the produce and farm experience that our customers enjoy.” In addition, Highland cherishes the Continued on Page 58 Photo by Kaylee Warner

——For

news and events visit WesternChesterCounty.com and ChescoWest.com—— oWest.com—— —

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Highland Orchards Continued from Page 57

relationships they have built with local farms, which help them ensure customers are getting top-quality local products. Another integral piece is the community. “We are proud to be a part of our community and work with local organizations, including the Chester County Food Bank, West Bradford Fire Company, the Discover Program of the CCIU, local schools and numerous other organizations through in-kind charitable donations,” Alan explained. Community involvement runs through Highland – literally -- as they also host a 5K run for Coatesville Kids to College in November and the Highland Harvest Hustle in September. The business strives to be a family-friendly destination for locally sourced produce and wholesome activities at a good value, while providing top-notch service in the paving and excavation branch as well. Highland Orchards is more than just a farm. They are proud members of their community. Visit www.Highlandorchards.net for a full lineup of upcoming events.

Photo by Kaylee Warner

Turn to our local, trusted team for your financing needs. Commercial Loan Officer Michael Guyer is an active member of the Chester County community and has been a valuable resource to local businesses for more than 15 years. Allow him to show you the community bank difference.

Public • Commercial • Industrial Real World Solutions Contractor Providing Excavation and Repairs for Underground Utilities & Pumping Stations

Michael Guyer VP/COMMERCIAL LOAN OFFICER

717–575–6934 michael.guyer@midpennbank.com

Fidelity Contracting LLC 789 North Manor Rd, Elverson, PA 19520

610.816.0704 www.fidelitycontracting.com 58

——Fall/Winter

2019 • Volume 5——


SAVE the DATE Thursday, October 10th 7:00 pm Join us for The POINT’s Fall Fundraiser -

Tim Tebow will be sharing his inspiring story!

Octorara High School Auditorium 226 Highland Rd, Atglen, PA 19310 Tim Tebow was a beloved college football champion, Heisman Trophy winner, media sensation, and best-selling author drafted in the first round in 2010. He had a miracle playoff run with the Broncos before being traded to the Jets. After one season, he was cut. Next, he was signed by the Patriots then let go after training camp, a scenario that repeated itself the following summer with the Eagles. Tim Tebow has achieved big victories and plunged into the depths of failure, all while never letting go of his faith, even in the face of doubt and disappointment. He’ll share why neither the highs nor the lows of his life can define him—and how you can find confidence and know who you are.

FOR TICKETS: https://thepoint_timtebow.eventbrite.com Adults: $35 | Students 16 & under: $20 Tickets MUST be purchased in advance, no tickets sold at door. Tickets sales are limited!

Sponsorships and information: 610-857-3393 ext. 102 or email: dshupp@parkesburgpoint.com ——For

news and events visit WesternChesterCounty.com and ChescoWest.com——

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Meet Our Member:

With Health in Mind:

Nina Malone, Arbonne Independent Consultant

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hen she was a kid, Western Chester County Chamber of Commerce member Nina Malone wanted to grow up to be a writer, so she earned a B.A. in journalism from Rider College (now University). Upon graduation, she used those skills to do public relations and marketing for non-profits, for-profits and, after earning an M.A. in management from Rider, her own consultancy business. Mission accomplished. Or so she thought. It was a “life curveball” — and a few wake-up calls — that kept urging her to consider another path. Malone’s father was into supplements decades before it was a thing; that influence was always there, but she merely dabbled for a long time. Then, her mother passed away quickly from cancer at 54. That was a game-changer. “Six months, from diagnosis to death,” Malone explained. “I was only 27, and thought, ‘What the hell just happened here?’” Malone suffered a bout of skin cancer on her face at the same time. Luckily, it was a “harmless” version and easily removed, but left slight scarring. And, it continued to make her think. A letter from her father was a wake-up call. It contained a Prevention magazine article about the downsides of eating red meat. On it he’d written, “Your mother’s fate doesn’t have to be your fate.” Almost immediately, Malone started exploring and embracing a mostly vegetarian lifestyle. “I started reading everything I could find, and cut red meat out instantly,” she said. “I was particularly struck by Dr. Andrew Weil’s Natural Health, Natural Medicine, Dr. Christiane Northrup’s Women’s Bodies, Women’s Wisdom and Vegetarian Times magazine. I customized a supplement program and weaned myself off chicken and turkey, too.”

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Meeting an Arbonne International independent consultant at a networking meeting provided the next wake-up call, even if it took Malone a few months to answer it. She’d never heard of Arbonne and figured as someone who’d become more “enlightened” that she was taking care of herself just fine. “Finally, the consultant said to me, ‘You spend a lot of time worrying about what you eat; do you also check what’s in the products you put on your Photos by Nina Malone body?’ That stopped me in my tracks,” Malone said. “I’d never considered the impact of what I put on my skin as I’d long forgotten that it’s our largest and fastest-growing organ. The consultant told me that what we put on our skin absorbs in quickly -- similar to how dermal patches deliver medications. I was speechless. I’d been taking care of the inside yet slapping discount products on the outside.” Malone agreed to try Arbonne’s pioneering anti-aging system, RE9 Advanced. Still a bit of a skeptic, she researched the ingredients that are not in Arbonne’s products and found the consultant was correct: Arbonne’s pure, safe and beneficial policy was worth a second look. This also extended to her experience with the company’s 30 Days to Healthy Living program. Despite being predominantly vegetarian, she’d found she’d gained weight over the past two decades -- and then lost it in a few short months using Arbonne. She says she was impressed that everything is certified vegan, certified gluten-free and certified cruelty-free; the shakes GI Labs certified; the nutrition Kosher certified and Non-GMO Project verified; and the PhytoSport line Banned Substances Control Group and Informed-Sport certified. “Arbonne won me over with its ingredients policy, which states that it ‘is healthy living, inside and out … pure products with botanically-based ingredients in scientifically tested formulas …. The advantage of Arbonne products is in

2019 • Volume 5——


for a side hustle/business opportunity. Bonus: Arbonne’s flexible plan allows her to continue her passion for writing as a content manager for Dish LLC. In her spare time she’s a rabid Philadelphia Eagles and Philadelphia Phillies fan, and loves hanging out with her husband at craft brewpubs and snapchatting with her adult stepkids. She’s a member of the WCCCC Communications Committee, the Women’s Business Connection of Chester County, the Downingtown-Thorndale Chamber of Commerce, Polka Dot Power House Chadds Ford and the Brandywine Health Foundation Garden Party Committee.

the promise to deliver a holistic approach to healthy living, inside and out, with cleaner formulas for better skincare results and plant-powered nutrition.’” Then, something unexpected happened: People started commenting on her appearance -- a lot. The skin care, cosmetics and nutrition had created a visible change. Malone started telling those who inquired about Arbonne, and decided to become an independent consultant. “The business model is simple,” she explained. “For me, it involves sharing products, working with customers in our healthy living program and/or finding solutions for their skin care and personal care concerns, and teaching and training others to do the same. I find Arbonne’s compensation plan to be straightforward and fair, as it rewards for consistent efforts and includes commissions, overrides, and cash and car bonuses.” Malone is currently an executive area manager working with a diverse team to serve customers and those looking

Learn more at www.ninamalone.arbonne. com, follow Nina’s Health and Wellness Page on Facebook (/ninashealthylife) and ninashealthylife on Instagram.

Steve Ohrwaschel President

P.O. Box 1052 Kimberton, PA 19442-1052 Office: 610.245.3815 Cell: 484.639.4578 steveo@covenv.com • www.covenv.com ——For

news and events visit WesternChesterCounty.com and ChescoWest.com——

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Talk the Walk: Walk the Talk By Tim Phelps TMACC Executive Director

2, tion 10 c e S , 5 Title 7 osswalk “as: tersec“Cr at an in

to be ind independent, responsible and how to properly navigate the ped pedestrian environment. tions c adway e o n r n a ne of the earliest benchAs we grew older, walking o f e c t part o ithin th sidewalks on w marks in our lives is the becam became an important mode of d (1) Tha e he clud tion in eral lines of t ighway, mea day we take our first transpo transportation as we walked lat f the h the absence o of the s e farthe steps. I always wondered if it is farther and more freely. id , in e s urbs or f the traversopposit c e h In t momentous because we are mov-the last 50 years, as t so rom sured f from the edge absence of a peop ing toward independent mobility,, people moved from the city s, the y, of curb way; and in oadwa r e e to th or adults have a mobile inquisitive the suburbs, we grew to h t ad of cluded able ro on one side in y beco child on their hands. become a car-dependent a lk roadw lines sidewa of the of the lateral ew soc Like many of you, I have very few society. People were lookt r a p sion that n e t x e her ing for back yards for recollections of those days, other . the idewalk dway at an within s g in eats lei than the stories my mother repeats leisure and separation t xis oa of the e tion of a r ere distinctly vous fro to everyone about my mischievous from their neighbors. por by lsewh (2) Any ection or e rian crossing e. g on Jo behavior. When I was not riding Jobs moved to an office inters surfac pedest e r h t o f mber b my dad’s shoulders, I do remember building with a sea of n o ed s indicat ther marking lding p walking the boardwalk while holding parking, and the strip o lines or nds. mall o my parents and grandparents’ hands. offered everything you usy, a needed a few steps aw The street that I grew on was busy, away from the parked car. ut still We now controlled our lawn and commute. neighborhood through street, but safe enough to play on the sidewalk; never in the street. Today, people are seeking more outdoor physical exerUp and down the block, we had great sidewalks with cise, and walking has once again re-emerged. In a recent all different smoothness, conditions and separation. My report on “Transportation Benefits of Walking” (found sister and I would spend hours on the sidewalk, drawing at Americawalks.org), Samuel Schwartz, President and with chalk, riding our bikes, pushing skateboards, roller CEO of Sam Schwartz Engineering, states “Walking is skating, and bouncing on our pogo stick. We could run incredibly efficient. Nearly a third of all car trips taken in down the sidewalk trying to beat cars or race our bikes this country are a mile or less in length -- the equivalent up and down. We owned the sidewalk until Mrs. Walker of a 20-minute walk. Moving those trips out of cars and would walk her dog. It was a safe place to be. onto sidewalks would solve many of our transportation About three blocks away and around the corner was conundrums.” The power of the statement resides in the the shopping center. There was Woolworth’s with a idea that one has an option. lunch counter, a grocery store, pizza parlor, bank and With increased walking also comes increased awareother stores. I remember one of the first times that I was ness by both motorized vehicles and walkers. Where allowed to walk to the grocery store by myself, and my sidewalks and roads meet, all must be diligently aware sister in tow. Unfortunately, at the end of our block the of others. In Pennsylvania, pedestrians shall obey traffic sidewalk stops, and we had to be super careful and stay control signals. (Sec 3541(b)). In Pennsylvania motor on the curb. vehicle code, at non-controlled intersections, vehicles As you approached the main intersection, it became shall yield the right-of-way to pedestrians in a marked or narrow and was just a goat path around the corner. In the unmarked crosswalk (Sec 3542(a)). summer, Mom would give us money and send us on our Mom always reminded my sister and me to look both way to get bread, potato salad, or whatever. We learned ways before we crossed the street. As a pedestrian

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2019 • Volume 5——


approaches the intersection, s/he does not have the right-away to step off the curb into traffic to cross the road. We hear a lot about distracted drivers, but there can be distracted walkers. As a walker, I have a responsibility to be aware of the built environment, my impact and help keeping it safe. Growing or enhancing the sidewalk network increases accessibility and increases local property values. This then helps reduce traffic congestion and reduces noise pollution, and increases air quality. In turn, this improves community health, well-being and social interaction. The more one chooses walking over driving short trips will have a growing impact, but just one walking trip makes a difference. The next time you need to go a short distance, consider the walk -- whether it’s to the park, the post office, the library, the farmers market or even to the train. And if you do not have sidewalks, reach out to your municipalities and encourage them to apply for PennDOT’s Multimodal Grant from PennDOT.

——For

Pedestr

ian Saf ety Tip s

• Wea r lightcolor so you can be ed, reflective seen. clothin • Walk g against t r a f fic. • Make eye con tact wit crossin h moto g the s rists be treet. • Be aw fore are of y our sur roundin gs.

TMACC is the Transportation Management Association of Chester County, a non-profit, member-based organization focused on improving traffic congestion and air quality for the County of Chester through transportation demand management strategies. If you are interested in being a part of the movement, visit them at tmacc.org.

news and events visit WesternChesterCounty.com and ChescoWest.com——

63


Meet Our Member:

Harry’s The Neighborhood Place: A special eatery for friends and families By Natalie Smith Staff Writer

“My father could be described as having a magnetic personality. People just liked him. He was just the kind of guy who made hat began more than two centuyou smile when you saw him,” Lymberis ries ago as a respite stop for those recalled. “He would talk to them, he cared traveling between Lancaster and about them, he knew them … you know, Philadelphia has continued today as a place all the people who came through the doors, to get a good meal, a refreshing drink and a they were his friends, not just customers. It friendly greeting. was almost like this was his home and he Harry’s The Neighborhood Place, in the vilwas saying, ‘Welcome back.’” lage of Sadsburyville in Sadsbury Township, Lymberis remembers that he and his sister A sign hanging in front of Harry’s Chester County, has been owned by the The Neighborhood Place. Behind Yiota spent a lot of time at the restaurant Lymberis family since 1973. Greek natives it is the crossroads of Lincoln when they were young. Later, during the Harry and wife Athena emigrated to the U.S. Highway – known earlier as time Lymberis was studying architecture at in 1967, looking for opportunity and willing Lancaster Turnpike – and Old Temple University, his sister married Foti Wilmington Road, previously to work hard for it. “Frank” Petropoulos, a Greek immigrant called Old Limestone Road. Their resulting restaurant, once known himself, who was brought into the family primarily for its mouth-watering Hotdogs with their famous business and is now a co-owner. secret recipe special meat sauce, refurbished its rooms and But how did an architect end up in the restaurant busiexpanded its menu to become a place that offers something ness? “When I graduated school in ‘92, the job market for for everyone, according to John H. Lymberis, business co- an architect was kind of soft,” he said. “My thesis was about owner and Harry and Athena’s son. adaptive reuse and I had completed a case study on this When Harry purchased the Sadsburyville Hotel at the building as well. And so I thought, ‘Before I go out into the intersection of Lincoln Highway and Old Wilmington Road job market, let me remodel and expand the place a little bit from George and Andrew Shesko, it was primarily a tav- for my folks.’ ern that served sandwiches, said his son. His father, who “So we added dining rooms, redid the outside of the had gained much of his restaurant experience under the building and things like that. The business took off, once we tutelage of George Lalagos, owner of the Central Tavern in kind of changed it over and restored its beauty,” Lymberis Coatesville, had been looking for a business. said with a laugh. “And I thought, ‘Why should I go work “He found this place and thought, ‘I can do this here,’” for an architect?’” Lymberis said. “Back in the early 70’s this place was in the Harry’s The Neighborhood Place restaurant serves middle of nowhere. There were just farms and not really breakfast, lunch and dinner, has a takeout deli, and a any business or commerce.” smoking-allowed bar with a separate entrance. The bar has Over the past 46 years, Hotdogs have become a big draw been a popular local spot for years. at the restaurant, so much so that for a time the place was Upstairs, in addition to small former rental rooms convertknown as Harry’s Bar and Hotdog Shop. “Originally it was ed to dining areas, there is a non-smoking cocktail lounge the Sadsburyville Hotel and over time it became known as called The Attic Lounge. Furnished with several large Harry’s Hotdogs, and now it is just known as Harry’s-The couches and with its own bar, the rooms are perfect for live Neighborhood Place,” Lymberis said. “I don’t know if my music, dancing, karaoke, wine tastings, private events and Dad realized that his Hotdogs would become such a draw, special occasions. but he thought since there was already a good bar business, “We really wanted to offer a separate venue for people why not sell his Hotdogs here too?” who wanted a new vibe from downstairs,” Lymberis said. Lymberis said it wasn’t just the food and drinks that “It’s almost feels like you’re in the city somewhere. It’s a brought customers in. His late father, who died in 2013, very unique and swanky type of space.” was well known and loved in the area. In fact, one of their most popular specials in the Attic

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Lounge, sushi night, actually led to the opening of another restaurant. In the wake of nearly half a dozen years of twice-a-week sushi nights, Harry’s opened Zing across the street, at the site of a former convenience store. The Harry’s menu now has a wide variety of choices, and a few Greek dishes as well. Gyros are always popular, as are Greek salads, Lymberis said. “We can’t really take things off [the menu],” he said, “because people come here for certain things. But we have been changing with the times; adding more vegetarian dishes, salads and flatbreads. “We have more specialty French fries that are smothered in a variety of ways. And our handmade halfpound burgers have many different choices of toppings.” For those who look for specials, there are homemade soup, appetizer, lunch and dinner specials daily. Homemade fresh-baked Chicken Pot Pie is available every Wednesday. A London Fish Fry with mac and cheese and stewed tomatoes on the side, are on Friday’s menu, and prime rib fans get their wish on Saturdays and Sundays. Lymberis said he doesn’t have a favorite dish. “I confess that I don’t eat Hotdogs all the time, but when I do, I’m reminded of how good they really are!” he said. When an establishment has been around as long as Harry’s, Lymberis said customers really feel connected to it. “I see people who would come in when they were little kids ——For

The Attic Lounge at Harry’s The Neighborhood Place is a popular destination for those wanting to relax in a smoke-free environment. Regular activities there include live acoustics, open mic, DJ dance parties, and is available to reserve for private parties and celebrations.

Harry’s famous Hotdogs and sandwiches may be purchased at the restaurant’s deli. Late owner Harry Lymberis had the window installed years earlier. Even though some might criticize the placement as marring a historic building, it’s become a popular feature for passers-by and patrons to watch the Hotdogs being grilled or wave to friends inside.

The front of Harry’s The Neighborhood Place. As the Sadsburyville Hotel, part of the building dates to 1799.

with their dads or grandfathers and now they’re bringing their kids in,” he said. “There was a story a gentleman told me one time and I just couldn’t believe it. He said, ‘I just want to let you know what Harry’s means to me and my family. From the time I was a small kid growing up, we would go fishing with my dad and we would always stop and get Harry’s Hotdogs with everything. That was what we had to do.’ Unfortunately, his dad got ill and passed away,” Lymberis continued. “When he retrieved his dad’s ashes, he came and got the Hotdogs and went to their fishing spot and spread the ashes where they liked to fish. He said, ‘I just had to have the Harry’s Hotdogs.’ He was in tears telling me this. “It’s stories like this, that make me realize how much a part of families we really are.” Natalie Smith may be contacted at Natalie@DoubleSMedia.com.

news and events visit WesternChesterCounty.com and ChescoWest.com——

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CHAMBER MEMBER DIRECTORY Accounting Service

Penn State Extension

Albert Abdala Tax & Insurance Center Albert Abdala (610) 384-6425 apatax.com

Logan Hall (610) 696-3500 extension.psu.edu/chester

CBIZ Employee Services Organization Donna McCorkle (484) 667-6652 cbiz.com

Romano 4-H Center Ken Walker (610) 942-0220 facebook.com/TheRomano4HCenterofChesterCounty

Gina’s InterNet Advising Gina Rodkey (484) 712-5959 GinasInterNetAdvising.com

Windy Hill Farm Anna Larsen (848) 218-2949 windyhillfarmpa.com

Paisley Solutions Paula Paisley (610) 444-2597 paisleysolutions.com

Apartments and Townhomes

Quinn, M Cynthia, CPA Cynthia Quinn (610) 380-1040 mcq1040.com The Small Business Accounting Solution Inc Nicole Odeh (610) 203-9682 TSBAS.com Administrative Services Brandywine Business Systems Sam Slokom (610) 563-1487 Agriculture Cairns Family Farm Don Cairns (610) 636-8107 Chester County Agricultural Development Council Hillary Krummrich (610) 344-6285 chesco.org/141/Agricultural-Development-Council Chester/Delaware County Farm Bureau Dan Miller (717) 529-2508 pfb.com See ad on page 45 Highland Orchards Marsha Hodge (610) 269-3494 highlandorchards.net Highspire Hills Farm, LLC Deborah Ellis (610) 942-9634 localharvest.org/highspire-hills-farm-llcM6683

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Fairways Apartments & Townhomes Kristin Undercuffler (610) 383-0690 fmgnj.com Millview Apartment Homes Melissa Gatto (610) 466-7800 millviewapts.com Architecture Art & Architecture Susan Salvo (484) 880-8023 fb.com/susansalvoarchitect Ronald David Osborne Architect Ronald Osborne (610) 384-3133 Attorneys Carosella & Associates, PC Vincent Carosella, Esq. (610) 431-3300 carosella.com Gawthrop Greenwood, PC Anthony Verwey, Esq. (610) 696-8225 gawthrop.com See ad on page 30 Keen, Keen & Good William Keen, Esq. (610) 383-7810 KKGLawFirm.com Lamb McErlane PC Helen Esbenshade, Esq. (610) 430-8000 lambmcerlane.com Law Firm of Barry S. Rabin Barry S. Rabin, Esq. (610) 873-1600 BarryRabinLaw.com Law Office of Jayne Garver Jayne Garver, Esq. (484) 784-5372 jgarverlaw.com ——Fall/Winter

Law Office of Robin J. Gray Robin Gray, Esq. (484) 769-5855 robinjgraylaw.com

DNB First | Downingtown Richard Sware, Jr. (484) 359-3308 dnbfirst.com

Law Offices of August J. Ober, IV A.J. Ober, Esq. (215) 779-3433 OberLegal.com

DNB First | Downingtown Jennifer Randisi (484) 691-3621 dnbfirst.com

Powell Law Associates, LLC Marvin Powell, Esq. (610) 489-1714 powellpatentlaw.com

First Resource Bank John Durso (610) 363-9400 firstresourcebank.com See ad on page 46

Siana, Bellwoar & McAndrew LLP Chris Gerber, Esq. (610) 321-5500 sianalaw.com Unruh, Turner, Burke & Frees, P.C. Theodore Claypoole, Esq. (610) 692-1371 utbf.com Wusinich & Brogan, P.C. Peter F.X. Callahan, Esq. (610) 594-1600 wusinichbrogan.com Automotive Sales and Service Brian Hoskins Ford Ed Kovatch (610) 384-4242 brianhoskinsford.com

Fulton Bank | Guthriesville Patricia Savino (610) 873-4740 fultonbank.com Fulton Bank | West Chester Mike Reese (610) 918-8814 fultonbank.com M&T Bank Jennifer Simmet (610) 273-7022 mtb.com Meridian Bank Geoffrey Sheehan (484) 568-5026 meridianbanker.com

Extra Mile Auto Service George Devine (610) 384-2864 extramileauto.com

Mid Penn Bank Mike Guyer (717) 690-3985 midpennbank.com See ad on page 58

Fling’s Towing, Inc. Daryl Fling (610) 383-6362 flingstowing.com

Phoenixville Federal Bank & Trust Steve Pratt (610) 933-1000 PhoenixFed.com

K’s Collision Bruce Kuryloski (610) 384-3337 kskollision.com

PNC Bank Susan Kuryloski (610) 593-2121 pnc.com

Salvo Brothers Motorcars Ari Salvo (610) 384-1352 salvobrothersauto.com See ad on page 20

Banquet Facility

Banks

Coatesville Moose Lodge/1910 Ballroom Jeff Ellis (610) 857-8227 coatesvillemooselodge.com

Bryn Mawr Trust Company Andrew Stump (610) 430-6158 bmtc.com

Wagontown Banquet Hall Bridget Ziegler (610) 384-1015 wagontownfire.com

Coatesville Savings Bank Steven Cunningham (610) 384-8282 coatesvillesavings.com See ad on page 63

West End Fire Company #3 Gina Langan (610) 384-9798

2019 • Volume 5——


Rainbow Washhouse Steve Dovidio (610) 637-7636

Beverage

Caterers

Christiana Beer & Beverage Mike Peace (610) 593-5887 christianabeer.com See ad on page 17

Harry’s Nieghborhood Place John H. Lymberis (610) 857-2331 HarrysHotdogs.com See ad on page 27

Lamb Beverage Inc. Michael McGinley (610) 384-1470 lambbeverage.com

John Serock Catering John Serock (610) 640-2836 serockcatering.com

Precision Flooring Enterprises LLC Marilyn Costalas (610) 857-3519 precisionflooringllc.com See ad on page 18

Building Contractors

Rita’s of Gap Debbie Pierce (610) 405-4586 ritastruck.net

Top Notch Flooring, LLC Mike Smondrowski (610) 857-1131 topnotchflooring.com

Triple Fresh Catering Jim Petro (610) 384-5037 triplefresh.net

Communication Services

McComsey Builders Inc. Bob McComsey (610) 679-6161 mcComseyBuilders.com Provident Homes Corporation Matt Bedwell (610) 692-7697 providenthomes.com Rittenhouse Builders George Metzler (610) 380-9570 rittenhousebuilders.com

Victory Brewing Company Mike Kearnes (484) 667-9249 victorybeer.com Chambers of Commerce

Simmers Builders Inc Lloyd Simmers (610) 383-5562 simmersbuilders.com

PA Chamber of Business & Industry Jennifer Reis (717) 720-5431 pachamber.com

Building Supplies

Western Chester County Chamber of Commerce Donna Steltz (610)382-9550 westernchestercounty.com

Graber Supply, LLC David Blank (610) 593-3500 polebarn.com

Chiropractors

Hatt’s Industrial Supplies and True Value Chip Clavier (610) 384-1954 hatts.com See ad on page 17

Agape Institute of Functional Healthcare Michelle Conicello (484) 593-0882 agapefhc.com Chamberlain Chiropractic Dr. Jeffrey Chamberlain (610) 429-4920 chamberlainchiropractic.com

Business Consulting Novak Strategic Advisors Alan Novak, Esq. (717) 234-9909 novakstrategic.com

Churches

SCORE of Chester and Delaware Counties Vic Goldberg (610) 344-6910 chestercounty.score.org Transfers of Learning Tasha Delaney (610) 466-7521 transfersoflearning.com See ad on page 31

Our Lady of Consolation Mary Wishneski (610) 857-3510 olcchurch.org Cleaning Services Clarel Janitorial/ Maintenance Services Corp. Claudia Muntean (484) 378-0827 clarelmaintenance.com

Commercial Flooring Sales and Installation

Verizon Wireless Akilah Sanders (484) 378-7979

Chester County Food Bank Anne Shuniak (610) 873-6000 chestercountyfoodbank.org Chester County OIC Taj Brown (610) 692-2345 ccoic.org Coatesville 2nd Century Alliance Sonia Huntzinger (484) 786-8896 2ndCenturyAlliance.org Crime Victims’ Center of Chester County, Inc. Christine Zaccarelli (610) 388-1218 x212 cvcofcc.org Good Samaritan Services Nate Hoffer (610) 380-1360 goodsamservices.com

Community Services Angel Grapevine Joan Allen (774) 272-1914 AngelGrapevine.com Boy Scouts of America Chester County Council Rick Curth (610) 696-2900 cccbsa.org

Greater Deliverance Development Outreach Stephanie Duncan (484) 886-6413 greaterdeliverancechurch.org Habitat For Humanity of Chester County Charles L. Huston IV (610) 384-7993 hfhcc.org

Brandywine Conservancy

Honey Brook Area Community Partnership Verna Emery (484)-467-2837 hbpartnership.org

and Museum of Art Sheila Fleming (610) 388-8389 brandywine.org/conservancy Brandywine Health Foundation Vanessa Briggs (610) 380-9080 brandywinefoundation.org See ad on page 45

Life Transforming Ministries Bill Shaw (610) 384-5393 quietrevolution.org

Brandywine Regeneration Project Bob Holliday (610) 717-2265

Minding Manners With Ms B Bongai Mhloyi (484) 356-8935 mindingmannerswithmsb.com

Bridge Academy and Community Center Jordan Crans (610) 466-9505 thebridgeacademy.org

PABA - Parkesburg Area Business Association Allan Fellman (610) 857-5114 paba-pa.org

Caln Athletic Association Steve Santillo (484) 378-0470 calnaa.com

Parkesburg Action Committee Jenny Alexander (610) 425-1148 facebook.com/PAC19365/

Chester County Association for the Blind Nancy Wilson (610) 384-2767 chescoblind.org

Rotary Club of Coatesville Michael Givler (610) 384-9196 facebook.com/rotaryclubofcoatesville/ Continued on Page 68

——For

news and events visit WesternChesterCounty.com and ChescoWest.com——

67


Directory Continued from Page 67 Salvation Army - Service Extension Cindy Yearsley (610) 383-0868 Stewart Huston Charitable Trust Scott Huston (610) 384-2666 stewarthuston.org The Huston Foundation Charles Lukens Huston III (610) 832-4955 hustonfoundation.org The Parkesburg POINT Debbie Shupp (610) 857-3393 parkesburgpoint.com See ad on page 59

Veteran Construction and Utility Services, Inc Sue Durborow (610) 384-8235 veterancus.com Credit Union Citadel | Eagleview Corporate Office Doug Thompson (610) 466-6412 citadelbanking.com See ad on page 32

United Way of Chester County Chris Saello (610) 429-9400 unitedwaychestercounty.org See ad on page 49

Citadel | Parkesburg Kim Jarvis 610-466-6634 citadelbanking.com See ad on page 32

Construction

Citadel | Thorndale Gwen Smoker (610) 466-6649 citadelbanking.com See ad on page 32

City Construction Co. Inc. Dennis Fallon (610) 269-9530 cityconstructionco.com D. Howe & Sons, Inc. Douglas Howe (610) 942-4249 dhoweandsons.com David P. Kristman Excavating, Inc. David Kristman (610) 273-9388 dpkristmanexcinc.com Directional Drilling, Inc. Curt Eldredge (610) 873-1099 directionaldrillinginc.com FBSG, Inc. Cindy Gallo (484) 576-0876 fbsginc.com Fidelity Contracting LLC Richard Burkholder (610) 816-0704 fidelitycontracting.com See ad on page 58 Five Point Renovation & Remodel Rob Wishneski (484) 888-8276 fivepointconstruction.com Graber Supply, LLC David Blank (610) 593-3500 polebarn.com

68

JGM FABRICATORS & CONSTRUCTORS LLC Joseph Messner (610) 873-0081 jgmusa.com

Citadel | South Coatesville Anthony Williams (610) 466-6623 citadelbanking.com See ad on page 32 Dentists Hughes & Hughes Family Dentistry Cheryl Gaudi 610-942-3321 hughesdentistry.com Rainbow Valley Dental Stephanie McGann, DMD (610) 383-4747 rainbowvalleydental.com Developer First Eastern Development Company, LLC John Newton (610) 842-8224 Mark Lane Properties Mark Sherman (215) 669-6847 New Heritage Properties, LLC Crosby Wood (610) 383-9800 newheritageproperties.com Legend Properties David DePetris (610) 941-4034 lpre.com ——Fall/Winter

Oliver Tyrone Pulver Corporation Donald Pulver (610) 834-3185 otpcorp.com

Billows Electric Supply Company Bob Weiss (610) 269-1493 billows.com

Economic Development Organization

Denmans Electrical Services, Inc. Jeffrey Denman (484) 228-8111 denmanselectric.com

Chester County Economic Development Council Gary Smith (610) 321-8227 ccedcpa.com Coatesville 2nd Century Alliance Sonia Huntzinger (484) 786-8896 2ndCenturyAlliance.org Education Chester County 2020 William Stevens (484) 680-5570 CC2020.org Chester County Intermediate Unit Kristina Goodwin (484) 237-5153 conferencecenter.cciu.org See ad on pages 5, 21 Chester County Technical College High School Beth Myers (484) 593-5100 tchsbrandywine.org See ad on pages 5, 21 Coatesville Area School District Dr. Cathy Taschner (610) 466-2400 casd.schoolwires.net/Domain/4 Delaware County Community College Ruth Bennett (610) 359-5131 dccc.edu Harcum College Coatesville Sondra Brewer (610) 810-1556 harcumcoatesville.org Octorara Area School District Lisa McNamara (610) 593-8238 octorara.k12.pa.us/ See ad on page 33 Pope John Paul II Regional Catholic Elementary School Maria Samson (610) 384-5961 popejohnpaul2sch.org Electrical Contractors Bill Mullen Electric LLC Bill Mullen (484) 716-1177 Billmullenelectric.net 2019 • Volume 5——

G. A. Vietri, Inc. Greg Vietri (610) 857-1110 gavietri.com See ad on page 13 Rumsey Electric Patrick Melvin (610) 832-9000 rumsey.com William S. Malany & Sons, Inc. Chad Lease (610) 436-4023 malanyelectric.com Emergency Services Chester County Department of Emergency Services George (Beau) Crowding (610) 344-5000 chesco.org/217/Emergency-Services Elverson - Honey Brook Area EMS Steven Jones (610) 286-8925 http://www.elversonems.org Keystone Valley Regional Fire District Raymond Stackhouse (484) 571-9686 kvfd8.com Keystone Valley Fire Department Krystine Sipple (610) 857-3232 kvfd8.com West End Fire Company #3 Gina Langan 610-384-9798 coatesvillefire.org/content/wfofficers/ Employment and Training Services Chester County OIC Taj Brown (610) 692-2345 ccoic.org Energy Management Service Electric Advisors Consulting, LLC Frank Lacey (610) 793-2809 electricadvisorsconsulting.com Kauffman Gas Inc. Ken Kauffman (610) 593-5063 kauffmangas.com


Rhoads Energy Family of Companies Michael DeBerdine (610) 857-1650 rhoadsenergy.com See ad on page 47 Tobelmann Energy Brokers, Inc. John Tobelmann (610) 639-1406 tobelmann.net

Environmental Consultants Coventry Environmental, Inc. Steven Ohrwaschel (484) 639-4578 covenv.com See ad on page 61

YMCA of Greater Brandywine, Brandywine Branch LaKeisha Harris (610) 380-9622 ymcagbw.org

Ingleside Golf Club Chris Ward (610) 384-9128 golfingleside.com/ Moccasin Run Golf Club/ Shotgun Pub & Grille Curtis King (610) 593-2600 moccasinrun.com

Florists

Engineer Consultants

Envera Michael Matheny (484) 593-4002 envera.com

Blue Moon Florist Ami Trost (610) 873-7900 bluemoonflorist.com

Advanced GeoServices Corp. Bernie Beegle (610) 840-9100 advancedgeoservices.com

Sovereign Environmental Group Larry Johnson (610) 383-9919 sovereignenvironmental.com

Coatesville Flower Shop Greg DePedro (610) 384-2677 coatesvilleflowershop.net

Chester County Commissioners Becky Brain (610) 344-6100 chesco.org

Edward B. Walsh & Associates, Inc. Theodore Gacomis (610) 903-0060 ebwalshinc.com See ad on page 61

Excavating Contractors

Funeral Home and Services

David P. Kristman Excavating, Inc. David Kristman (610) 273-9388 dpkristmanexcinc.com

Harris Mountain Funeral Home & Cremation Service Kevin Mountain (610) 384-1091 harrismountain.com

Chester County Department of Community Development Pat Bokovitz (610) 344-6900 chesco.org

Hydraterra Professionals Joe Boldaz (610) 942-3000 hydraterrapro.com

Fidelity Contracting LLC Richard Burkholder (610) 816-0704 fidelitycontracting.com See ad on page 58

Inland Design, LLC Chuck Dobson (484) 947-2928 inlanddesign.net

Financial Services

McMahon Associates, Inc Natasha Manbeck (610) 594-9995 mcmahonassociates.com See ad on page 36 Traffic Planning and Design, Inc Randy Waltermyer (610) 326-3100 trafficpd.com Entertainment and Recreation Air Ventures Balloon Flights,Inc Deb Harding (484) 753-2598 air-ventures.com Revival Productions Heather Grayberg (484) 378-0047 revival-productions.com Rita’s of Gap Debbie Pierce (610) 405-4586 ritastruck.net

Beacon Financial Group, LLC Cathy Jackson (484) 844-7824 CAJ-BeaconFinancial.com

Furniture Greg Pilotti Furniture Makers Greg Pilotti (484) 764-6956 gpfurnituremakers.com

Fire, Water and Damage Clean-up

Golf Courses

SERVPRO of Central Chester County Dave Lyman (610) 524-0211 servprocentralchestercounty.com

Broad Run Golfer’s Club Tom Morgan (610) 738-4410 broadrungc.com

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford Cliff Masscotte (610) 268-8620 Servprokennettsquareoxford.com See ad on page 43

Coatesville Country Club Chris Walton (610) 384-3200 coatesvillecountryclub.com See ad on page 75

Fitness Training and Sports Centers

French Creek Golf Club Thad Fortin (610) 913-6330 frenchcreekgolf.com

CrossFit Coatesville Kyle Wegman (484) 378-2562 crossfitcoatesville.com

The Lukens Band Mike Givler (610) 383-4197 lukensband.org

White Willows Memorial Design Fay Monte (717) 442-9001 whitewillowsmemorials.com See ad on page 31

Penn Rise Advisors Karl Klingmann II (610) 269-8363 pennriseadvisors.com See ad on page 53

Academy Sports Complex Michael Rudy (484) 288-8033 academysportspa.com

The Golf Zone George McNamara (610) 942-9494 golfzoneproshop.com

James J. Terry Funeral Home Greg Froio (484) 378-7210 jamesterryfuneralhome.com

Government - County

Chester County Department of Emergency Services George (Beau) Crowding (610) 344-5148 chesco.org/217/Emergency-Services Chester County DES - Public Safety Training Campus John Gillespie (610) 344-4100 chesco.org/des Chester County Planning Commission Brian O’Leary (610) 344-6285 chesco.org Chester County Recorder of Deeds Rick Loughery (610) 344-6330 chesco.org Government - Municipal Atglen Borough Caren Andrews (610) 593-6854 atglen.org Borough of South Coatesville Ramsey Reiner (610) 384-1700 south-coatesville.org

Honeybrook Golf Club Donna Horvath (610) 273-0207 honeybrookgolf.com See ad on page 37

Caln Township Kristen Denne (610) 384-0600 calntownship.org Christiana Borough Carol Pringle (610) 593-5199 christianaboro.com

Continued on Page 70 ——For

news and events visit WesternChesterCounty.com and ChescoWest.com——

69


Directory Continued from Page 69 City of Coatesville Michael Trio (610) 384-0300 coatesville.org

West Brandywine Township Dale Barnett (610) 380-8200 wbrandywine.org

State Representative John Lawrence 13th District (610) 869-1602 replawrence.com

East Brandywine Township Scott Piersol (610) 269-8230 ebrandywine.org

West Caln Township Thomas Siedenbuehl (610) 384-5643 westcaln.org

State Representative Tim Hennessey 26th District (610) 326-2626 rephennessey.com

East Fallowfield Township Scott Swichar (610) 384-7144 eastfallowfield.org

West Fallowfield Township Gina Wheeler (610) 593-5916 westfallowfieldtownship.org

U.S. Congresswoman Chrissy Houlahan 6th District (202) 225-4315 houlahan.house.gov

East Nantmeal Township Kathy Brumfield (610) 458-5780 eastnantmeal.org

West Nantmeal Township Deborah (Debi) Kolpak (610) 286-9722 westnantmeal.com

U.S. Senator Bob Casey, Jr. (215) 405-9660 casey.senate.gov

Elverson Borough Lori Kolb (610) 286-6420 elversonboro.org

West Sadsbury Township Cindy Mammarella (610) 857-5969 westsadsburytwp.org

Highland Township Barbara Davis (610) 857-1791 highlandtwp1853.org

Western Chester County Council Of Governments John McHugh (610) 384-9550 wcccog.com

Honey Brook Borough Janis Rambo (610) 273-2020 honeybrookborough.net Honey Brook Township Kristy Deischer-Eddy (610) 273-3970 honeybrooktwp.com Modena Borough Jennifer Daywalt (610) 384-6777 boroughofmodenapa.org Parkesburg Borough Neil Vaughn (610) 857-2616 parkesburg.org Sadsbury Township Tammy Russell (610) 857-9503 sadsburytwp.org Valley Township Carol Lewis (610) 384-5751 valleytownship.org Wallace Township Barbara D’Angelo (610) 942-2880 wallacetwp.org West Bradford Township Justin Yaich (610) 269-4174 westbradford.org

70

U.S. Senator Patrick Toomey (215) 241-1090 toomey.senate.gov Graphic Design and Marketing Blue Dog Printing & Design Debi Friedmann (610) 430-7992 getbluedog.com Hyland Graphic Design & Advertising Matthew Weiss (484) 879-6145 hylandgraphics.com

Government Elected Officials Chester County Commissioner Kathi Cozzone (610) 344-6199 chesco.org

Link Promos Megan Lamkin (717) 543-3767 linkpromos.com

Chester County Commissioner Michelle Kichline (610) 344-6031 chesco.org

Surefire Graphics & Marketing Vincent Zambuto (484) 378-4033 SurefireGraphics.com

Chester County Commissioner Terence Farrell (610) 344-6151 chesco.org

Grocery Store Crop’s Fresh Marketplace Chad Cropper (484) 593-2665 cropsmarketplace.com

State Senator Andrew E. Dinniman 19th District (610) 692-2112 senatordinniman.com

Kimberton Whole Foods Terry Brett (610) 873-8225 kimbertonwholefoods.com

State Senator Katie J. Muth 44th District (717)787-1398 senatormuth.com State Representative Christina Sappey 158th District (717)772-9973 repsappey.com State Representative Dan Williams 74th District (484) 200-8256 repwilliams.com State Representative Danielle Otten 155th District (717)783-5009 repotten.com ——Fall/Winter

Triple Fresh Jim Petro (610) 384-5037 triplefresh.net Hardware Stores Hatt’s Industrial Supplies & True Value Chip Clavier (610) 384-1954 hatts.com See ad on page 17

2019 • Volume 5——

Healthcare Providers Brandywine Hospital Tower Health Mark Reyngoudt (610) 383-8000 towerhealth.org See ad on page 18 ChesPenn Health Services, Inc. Michael Lucas (610) 383-3888 chespenn.org Lancaster General Health Debra Wertz (610) 857-6639 LancasterGeneralHealth.org See ad on page 2 Levin Luminais Chronister Eye Assoc Paul Fernandes (610) 384-9100 lleaeyes.com Physical Therapy Workshop John Spangenberg (610) 466-7060 ptworkshop.com Surgical Specialists, PC Scott Kripke (610) 384-6550 surspc.com Health & Wellness Arbonne International Nina Malone (610) 331-8285 ninamalone.arbonne.com Heating and Air Conditioning Darryl N. Barber Plumbing & Heating Inc. Darryl Barber (610) 273-2369 darrylbarberandsons.com Joe Ward Plumbing & Heating, Inc. Joe Ward (610) 593-6474 MACK Services Group Heating & Cooling Eric Jameson (610) 857-5525 mackservicesgroup.com Rhoads Energy Amy Stackhouse (610)857-1650 rhoadsenergy.com See ad on page 47 Summers & Zims Joseph Zimmerman (610) 593-5129 sumzim.com


Stottsville Inn Michael Quinn (484) 718-5121 stottsvilleinn.com/ See ad on page 4

Historical Society Graystone Society | National Iron and Steel Heritage Museum Jim Ziegler (610) 384-9282 steelmuseum.org

Human Resource Consultant CBIZ, Inc. Donna McCorkle (484) 667-6652 cbiz.com

Home Improvements Budget Blinds of Coatesville Germaine Schumann (610) 643-4929 budgetblinds.com/Coatesville/

Human Services

Cellarium Wine Cellars Don Cochran (610) 721-9698 Cellarium.com

Crime Victims’ Center of Chester County, Inc. Christine Zaccarelli (610) 388-1218 x212 cvcofcc.org

Certapro Painters of Western Chester County John Fecile (484) 283-5003 western-chester-county.certapro.com/ Chester County Tile and Design Jason Phillips (610) 380-5040 chestercountytile.com

Greater Deliverance Development Outreach Stephanie Duncan (484) 886-6413 greaterdeliverancechurch.org Industrial Engineered Graphic System Uticom Systems, Inc. Paul Keeler (610) 857-2655 uticom.net

The Wright Agency Jonathan Wright (610) 269-6115 wrightagencyinsurance.com US Health Advisors Harry Lilley (484) 554-4989 ushagent.com/HARRYLILLEY VanDyne Insurance Agency Donna VanDyne (717) 430-2798 vandyneinsurance.com

IT Services CompNet, Inc. Mark Davis (610) 380-1314 compnetinc.com

Good Works Inc. Robert Beggs (610) 383-6311 goodworksinc.org

Beaver Insurance Agency Larry Beaver (484) 356-6455 allstate.com/larrybeaver

Origami Technology Group, Inc. William Gayle (484) 639-0004 origamitg.com

Milanese Remodeling Mark Milanese (610) 384-5820 milaneseremodeling.com

Breuninger Insurance Chip Breuninger (610) 384-1980 binsured.com See ad on page 39

Bonner Landscape Contractors Ryan Bonner (484) 886-2925 BonnerLC.com

Top Notch Flooring, LLC Mike Smondrowski (610) 857-1131 topnotchflooring.com Home Inspections Ground Up Home Inspections Kevin Kerr (610) 324-3064 grounduphomeinspections.com See ad on page 43 Hotels Courtyard Marriott Coatesville Cassandra Vouriotis (610) 380-8700 courtyardcoatesville.com

C. Kenneth Grant Insurance & Real Estate Barry Norton (610) 384-6260 grantinsuranceandrealestate.com Chester & Associates, LLC Penny Reeder (610) 383-3884 rswinsurance.com DiMatteo Insurance Al DiMatteo (610) 383-1114 dimatteoinsuranceinc.com Knies Insurance Group Greg Knies (610) 273-3756 keytoinsurance.com See ad on page 25

Manufacturing ACR Machine Inc. Steve Tury (610) 383-6150 ACRMachine.com

Whitford Insurance Network, Inc. Bob Ward (610) 524-7860 whitfordinsurance.com

Insurance

Tony Buck Home Improvement Tony Buck (610) 384-7863 tonybuck.com

Management Consultants Transfers of Learning, LLC Tasha Delaney (610) 466-7521 transfersoflearning.com See ad on page 31

Vigorita Insurance Agency | AllState Candy Vigorita (610) 285-7560

Fashay Consulting Diane Fasnacht (610) 331-9246 fashay.com/

Five Point Renovation & Remodel Rob Wishneski (484) 888-8276 fivepointconstruction.com

Parkesburg Library Kathleen Hood (610) 857-5165 parkesburglibrary.org/

Landscaping

The Tree Connection Ryan Sipple (484) 888-5360 treeconnection.us

Aerzen USA Corporation Ralf Weiser 610-380-0244 aerzen.com/en-us.html American Roll Suppliers, Inc. Karen Neuhauser (610) 857-2988 ArcelorMittal Albert Fuller (610) 383-2000 arcelormittal.com Armstrong Engineering Associates, Inc. Robin Austin (610) 436-6080 armstrong-chemtec.com Brandywine Valley Fabricators Josh Crane (610) 384-7440 brandywinevalleyfab.com See ad on page 38 Cigas Machine Shop, Inc. Craig Cigas (610) 384-5239 cigasmachine.com

Libraries

JGM Fabricators & Constructors LLC Joseph Messner (610) 873-0081 jgmusa.com

Atglen Public Library Robbyn Kehoe (610) 593-6848 ccls.org/158/Atglen-Public-Library

John Rock Inc. Bill MacCauley (610) 857-8080 johnrock.com

Coatesville Area Public Library Penny Williams (610) 384-4115 coatesvilleareapubliclibrary.org

Keystone Turbine Services, LLC Patrice Beail (610) 268-6200 kts-aero.com

Honey Brook Community Library Jennifer Spade (610) 273-3303 ccls.org/171/Honey-Brook-CommunityLibrary

Pacer Industries, Inc. Joseph Moran (610) 383-4200 pacergrindingwheels.com Continued on Page 72

——For

news and events visit WesternChesterCounty.com and ChescoWest.com——

71


Directory Continued from Page 71 Paulsonbilt Pamela Barranco (610) 384-6112 paulsonbilt.com

Guaranteed Rate Jason Ashe (610) 864-6357 rate.com/jasonashe

Pelet Welding Inc. Timothy Pelet (610) 384-5048 peletwelding.com

Museum

RAS Industries Rick Saha (610) 383-5070 rasind.com Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation Chuck DiLabbio (610) 644-4430 lockheedmartin.com/us/what-we-do/ aerospace-defense/sikorsky.html See ad on page 53 Marketing and Public Relations Communication Works Now Judith Lee (610) 368-2058 communicationworksnow.com Media and Publishing Chester County Press Randall Lieberman (610) 869-5553 chestercounty.com

Hopewell Road Pharmacy Tony Scalies (610) 269-0002 hopewellroadpharmacy.com

Brandywine Conservancy and Museum of Art Sheila Fleming (610) 388-8389 brandywine.org/conservancy

Quik-Stop Pharmacy Alissa Steele-Griffith (610) 384-6100 qstoppharmacy.com

National Iron & Steel Heritage Museum/Graystone Society Jim Ziegler (610) 384-9282 steelmuseum.org

Photography Aleesha Nicole Photography Aleesha Howe (484) 824-1897 aleeshanicolephotos.com

Music The Lukens Band Mike Givler (610) 383-4197 lukensband.org

Images by Trish Trish Kozola (484) 258-1977 imagesbytrish.com

Networking Groups Women’s Business Connection of Chester County Cheryl Krass (484) 823-0110 wbcchesco.com

Physical Therapy Physical Therapy Workshop John Spangenberg (610) 466-7060 ptworkshop.com

Ophthalmologists

Vista.Today Ken Knickerbocker (610) 256-9571 vista.today

Levin Luminais Chronister Eye Assoc Paul Fernandes (610) 384-9100 lleaeyes.com

Memorials and Monuments

Painting

White Willows Memorial Design Fay Monte (717) 442-9001 whitewillowsmemorials.com See ad on page 31

Certapro Painters of Western Chester County John Fecile (484) 283-5003 western-chester-county.certapro.com/

Metal Fabrication

Parks and Recreation

American Roll Suppliers, Inc. Karen Neuhauser (610) 857-2988

Chester County Parks Lori Caldwell (610) 932-2589 chesco.org

Brandywine Valley Fabricators Josh Crane (610) 384-7440 brandywinevalleyfab.com See ad on page 38 JGM Fabricators & Constructors LLC Joseph Messner (610) 873-0081 jgmusa.com Mortgage and Financial Bank of America Louella Gray, NMLS # 72794 (215) 292-9616 bankofamerica.com 72

Pharmacies Honey Brook Pharmacy Tony Scalies (610) 273-7300 honeybrookpharmacy.com

Payroll Services CBIZ, Inc. Donna McCorkle (484) 667-6652 cbiz.com The Small Business Accounting Solution Inc Nicole Odeh (610) 203-9682 TSBAS.com

——Fall/Winter

Plumbing Darryl N. Barber Plumbing & Heating Inc. Darryl Barber (610) 273-2369 darrylbarberandsons.com J-S All Things Plumbing Bob Sparr (610) 500-4373 bobsparr.wix.com/allthingsplumbing See ad on back cover Joe Ward Plumbing & Heating, Inc. Joe Ward (610) 593-6474 Summers & Zims Joseph Zimmerman (610) 593-5129 sumzim.com Tri-County Water Services Inc. Brent D. Hershey (610) 857-1740 tricowater.com Printing and Promotional Services Adelfi Promotions, Inc. Michael Millard (484) 999-0656 adelfipromo.com

2019 • Volume 5——

Blue Dog Printing & Design Debi Friedmann (610) 430-7992 getbluedog.com FASTSIGNS EXTON Carrie Mengel (610) 280-6100 FASTSIGNS.COM/368 Image Ink Janet Petsko (610) 518-5181 image-ink.biz Link Promos Megan Lamkin (717) 543-3767 linkpromos.com Paragon Business Gifts, Inc. Greg Krajewski (610) 857-5506 paragonbusinessgifts.com Shirts N More LLC Joseph Early (610) 873-6075 shirtsnmorepa.com Surefire Graphics & Marketing Vincent Zambuto (484) 378-4033 SurefireGraphics.com Tam Arte Design Studio Rick Milne (610) 269-7518 tamartedesign.com The UPS Store -Parkesburg Richard Jenkins (610) 857-2240 theupsstore.com The UPS Store Print Shop Downingtown Bruce Cobb (610) 518-5010 theupsstore.com Zakback Inc. Bruce Korn (610) 407-0285 zakback.com Property Management BLUE CORD Property Care Bradley Fink (484) 796-1586 bluecordpropertycare.com Brite Realty Services Thomas Taylor (610) 524-8285 briterealty.com


Clarel Janitorial/Maintenance Services Corp. Claudia Muntean (484) 378-0827 clarelmaintenance.com

Rentals American Tent Rental Jay & Denise Riley (484) 340-7450 americantentrental.wixsite.com

Huston Properties Sharon Tandarich (610) 384-2666 hustonproperties.org

Residential Exterior Remodeling Milanese Remodeling Mark Milanese (610) 384-5820 milaneseremodeling.com

Wills Property Maintenance Richard Wills (610) 384-1624 willspropertymaintenance.com

Restaurants Beaver Creek Tavern Stuart Deets (484) 593-0481 beavercreek-tavern.com

Zeke’s Inc. Joseph DiSciullo (610) 384-5119 zekesincpa.com

Bordley House Grille Melissa O’Hara (610) 738-4410 x13 broadrungc.com/amenities/bordleyhouse-grille

Real Estate Brite Realty Services Thomas Taylor (610) 524-8285 briterealty.com C. Kenneth Grant Insurance & Real Estate Barry Norton (610) 384-6260 grantinsuranceandrealestate.com Help-U-Sell Direct Homes Matthew Boyle (610) 363-3737 helpusell.com

Bright Spot Café Shannon Maria Brower (610) 458-7000 BrightSpotExton.com Glenmoore Deli Christie Keith (610) 942-4321 facebook.com/Glenmoore-Deli-CountryMarket-997885856960616/

High Associates, LTD Brian Davison (610) 380-8437 highlandscenter.com

Greenside Grill at Honeybrook Golf Course Donna Horvath (610) 273-0207 honeybrookgolf.com/greenside Harry’s Neighborhood Place John H. Lymberis (610) 857-2331 HarrysHotdogs.com See ad on page 27

Mark Lane Properties Mark Sherman (215) 510-6399 The Gorham Group Matt Gorham (610) 363-4340 mattgorhamgroup.com Re/Max Professional Realty - Laurie Keen Laurie Keen (610) 363-8444 teammatrixhomes.com Recycling and Collections Services A.J. Blosenski, Inc. Anthony Blosenski (610) 942-2707 ajblosenski.com

Little Anthony’s Pizza & Grille Mike Madanat (610) 384-2292 littleanthonyspizza-grille.com Little Chef Family Restaurant Nick Lymberis (610) 384-3221 thelittlecheffamilyrestaurant.com Mr. E’s Tavern & Fine Food Beth Perdue (610) 384-4356 mrestavern.biz Rita’s of Gap Debbie Pierce (610) 405-4586 ritastruck.net

Reliable Industries Michael Carlini (717) 626-2181 relbox.com

Rocco and Anna’s Ristorante Italiano Rocco Pirozzi Jr. (610) 857-1111 roccoandanna.com/

The Protection Bureau Christine Pezzi (610) 903-4900 protectionbureau.com

Shotgun Pub & Grill at Moccasin Run Golf Course Grace King (610) 593-2600 moccasinrun.com/pub/shotguns

Witmer Public Safety Group, Inc. James Witmer (484) 288-6405 wpsginc.com/

Stottsville Inn Kate Richard (484) 718-5121 stottsvilleinn.com See ad on page 4 The Attic Lounge at Harry’s John H. Lymberis (610) 857-0202 TheAtticLoungeAtHarrys.com See ad on page 27 Victory Brewing Company Mike Kearnes (484) 667-9249 victorybeer.com ZING Sushi John H. Lymberis (610) 857-0001 ZingSushi.com See ad on page 27

Self Storage Coatesville Self Storage Sandy Chiavaroli (484) 378-0180 coatesvilleselfstorage.com Global Self Storage Jonathan Arasin (610) 857-0777 globalselfstorage.us Hidden Valley Self Storage Denyce Tober 610-857-1778 hiddenvalleystorageparkesburg.com Senior Services Coatesville Area Senior Center Bill Pierce (610) 383-6900 coatesvilleseniorcenter.org Skincare and Cosmetics

Retirement Life Care Communities

Arbonne International Nina Malone (610) 331-8285 ninamalone.arbonne.com

Freedom Village at Brandywine Nicole Rosella (610) 383-5100 freedomvillage.com Harrison House of Chester County Jean Bryan (610) 384-6310 harrisonseniorliving.com

Telecommunications and Networking CTDI Keith Montone (610) 793-8103 ctdi.com

Harrison Senior Living of Christiana Sherri Stoltzfus (610) 593-6901 harrisonseniorliving.com Heatherwood Retirement Community Kerri Jones (610) 273-9301 heatherwoodretire.com Tel Hai Retirement Community David Shenk (610) 273-9333 telhai.org Safety Systems and Services Signal 88 Security of Octorara Pete Mango (302) 298-3307 signal88.com

FBSG, Inc. Cindy Gallo (610) 633-8824 fbsginc.com Transportation Chester County Area Airport Authority Gary Hudson (610) 383-6057 chestercountyairport.com Chester County Aviation Steve Fortin (610) 384-9005 chestercountyaviation.com Krapf Group Gary Krapf (610) 431-1500 krapfbus.com Continued on Page 74

——For

news and events visit WesternChesterCounty.com and ChescoWest.com——

73


Directory Continued from Page 73 Signature Flight Support Erika Marsteller (610) 384-9000 signatureflight.com

Utilities PECO Energy Company Scott Neumann (610) 725-7189 exeloncorp.com

TMACC-Transportation Management Assoc. Chester County P. Timothy Phelps (610) 993-0911 tmacc.org

PECO Energy Company Edward Piscopo (215) 841-5411 peco.com

Travel and Tourism ChescoWest chescowest.com Chester County Conference and Visitor’s Bureau Susan Hamley (610) 719-1730 brandywinevalley.com Tree Care The Tree Connection Ryan Sipple (484) 888-5360 treeconnection.us

Valley Creek Productions Justin Chan (215) 525-9904 valleycreekproductions.com See ad on page 14 Water Services

Pennsylvania American Water Company Maggie Sheely 717-550-1616 amwater.com See ad on page 30

Tri-County Water Services Inc. Brent D. Hershey (610) 857-1740 tricowater.com

Pennsylvania American Water Company Justin Brame (610) 384-1776 amwater.com See ad on page 30

CompNet, Inc. Mark Davis (610) 380-1314 compnetinc.com

Video Production Multimedia CRD Multimedia LLC Ross Darlington (610) 247-0766 crdmultimedia.com

Wills Property Maintenance, LLC Richard Wills (610) 384-1624 willspropertymaintenance.com

Edge of Cinema Jeremy Schmidt (484) 889-8797 edgeofcinema.com/

Website Design

Fashay Consulting Diane Fasnacht (610) 331-9246 fashay.com Link Promos Megan Lamkin (717) 543-3767 linkpromos.com

Mercurygraphix Brandon McLean (610) 639-4723 mercurygraphix.com Youth Services Boy Scouts of America Chester County Council Rick Curth (610) 696-2900 cccbsa.org Bridge Academy and Community Center Jordan Crans (610) 466-9505 thebridgeacademy.org Caln Athletic Association Steve Santillo (484) 378-0470 calnaa.com Minding Manners With Ms B Bongai Mhloyi (484) 356-8935 mindingmannerswithmsb.com The Parkesburg POINT Debbie Shupp (610) 857-3393 parkesburgpoint.com See ad on page 59

Published by the Chester County Press in cooperation with the Western Chester County Chamber of Commerce Randall S. Lieberman - Publisher Alan E. Turns....................................Advertising Director Amy Lieberman ..............................Advertising Executive Teri Turns .......................................Advertising Executive Helen E. Warren .............................Advertising Executive Steven Hoffman ....................................................Editor John Chambless ...........................................Staff Writer Richard L. Gaw ............................................Staff Writer Tricia Hoadley ..............................................Art Director Diane Blanche Stirrat ............................Graphic Designer Brenda Butt ............................................Office Manager Arlene McGoldrick.........................................Copy Editor

P.O. Box 150 Kelton, PA 19346 74

• www.chestercounty.com • ——Fall/Winter

2019 • Volume 5——



Western Chester County Life Magazine Fall/Winter 2019 www.westernchestercounty.com

A Chester County Press Publication P.O. Box 150, Kelton, PA 19346 address corrections not required

Residential or Commercial

Don’t Delay, Call Today! Jones

J-S Sparr

610.500.4373

• Gas Line Installation and Repair Natural Gas or Propane • Well Pump Repair, Service, or Replacement • Public Water Service Repair • Water Conditioning Servicing and/or Installation • Gas /Oil Hydronic Systems (Boilers) Repair, Service, or Installation • Kitchen Sinks and Faucets Repair or Installation • Bathroom Bath Tubs, Showers, Vanities, and Toilets

• Toilet Repair, Service, or Replacement • Kitchen Disposal Systems • All Types Piping Repaired or Installed • Gas, Oil, or Electric Water Heaters, Repair or Installation • Repair (unclog) Pipes of any kind • Repair Leaks of any type • and many other services

Call today 610.500.4373 Fully insured and registered with the State


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