Western Chester County Life Spring /Summer 2019

Spring/Summer 2019

WESTERN Chester County LIFE

Spring/Summer 2019 • ISSUE 4

Western Chester County Chamber of Commerce Magazine Complimentary Copy

Magazine

Inside Meet Our Members Victory Brewing Company Chester County Home Show

FURNITURE & CABINETRY We build everything from Kitchens, Bars, Free-standing or Built-in Entertainment Centers, Bookcases, Tables and Furniture

SHOWROOM MONDAY-SATURDAY 10AM-4PM

ALL OUR WOODWORKING IS MADE HERE BY OUR CRAFTSMEN 610-869-0700 | 420 West Baltimore Pike, West Grove, PA | londongrove.com

Since 1957 the Milanese Family has provided Chester County residents with quality products, affordable prices and dependable service.

Lifetime Exteriors!

EXTERIOR REMODELING Windows Doors Siding Roofing

Enjoy the Outdoors!

OUTDOOR LIVING Awnings Patios Decks Sunrooms 610-384-5820 • www.MilaneseRemodeling.com 50 Broad Street, Coatesville, PA 19320 4

——Spring/Summer

2019 • Volume 4——

Try on a career in: The student-centered approach at TCHS offers students a hands-on career exploration using state-of-the-art methods and technology guided by KLJKO\ TXDOLĆ“HG LQVWUXFWRUV ZLWK \HDUV RI industry experience.

STEM

Try on a career with TCHS! Call to schedule a tour and explore our facilities!

The Arts

Technical College High School %UDQG\ZLQH &DPSXV 'RZQLQJWRZQ 3$ (484) 593-5100 Technical College High School Pickering Campus Phoenixville, PA (610) 933-8877 Technical College High School Pennock’s Bridge Campus West Grove, PA (610) 345-1800

www.TechnicalCollegeHighSchool.org

Skilled Trades

The future looks good on you.

Looking to connect with the future workforce of Chester County?

Here are a few ways TCHS can help: • Join our Occupational Advisory Committee (OAC) and help ensure our programs stay up-to-date with industry developments. • Partner with TCHS to establish co-op and internship opportunities. • Become a partner in our Ascend program, encouraging students to explore Advanced Manufacturing careers.

• Assist TCHS with mock interview days to hone students’ soft skills. • Participate in industry awareness days that bring you together with students to offer demos, job interviews/interview practice and networking. • Become a sponsor at one of the many TCHS community events.

An equal opportunity employer and educator

ď śâ€”â€”For

TCHS0119002

news and events visit WesternChesterCounty.com and ChescoWest.comâ€”â€”ď ś

5

Western Chester County Life

Table of Contents Spring/Summer 2019 Meet our Member The Little Chef Restaurant .........................16 G.A. Vietri, Inc. .........................................24 Coatesville Rotary ......................................36 Quik-Stop Pharmacy ..................................42 Windy Hill Lavender Farm.........................50 Lancaster General Health ..........................54 SERVPRO Kennett Square/Oxford .............66 Coatesville Savings Bank ............................72

Featured Articles Victory Brewing .........................................10 Petals Please ..............................................22 Palmer Park ...............................................28 Chester County Safety Training Campus....38 Wolf’s Hollow Country Park ......................44 Chester County Golf Courses ....................56 6

——Spring/Summer

2019 • Volume 4——

Western Chester County Chamber Thanks our Titanium & Platinum Partners

In Each Issue Letter from the Board President ................8 Chamber Calendar .....................................9 Community Events .....................................18 Chester County Economic Development Council................26 Chester County Planning Commission .......34 Transportation Management Association of Chester County ...................48 Coatesville 2nd Century Alliance...............52 Honey Brook Community Partnership .......64 Parkesburg Action Committee ...................68 Western Chester County Chamber Directory by Category................75

——For

news and events visit WesternChesterCounty.com and ChescoWest.com—— escoWest.c t com— om—— om —

7

Letter from the 2019 Board President

A

s the incoming Chamber President for 2019, I am honored and humbled to be chosen to lead.

I consider myself a relative newcomer to the Chamber and I am grateful for the opportunity to help the WCCCC with its continued success. The Chamber has been welcoming to an outsider trying to establish himself and build not only a business, but a sense of family and community.

Many past presidents have been born and raised in this region and were bred with the pride of the local community, however I was not born or raised here. I came from a small town outside of Cleveland, Ohio, and ended up moving here after college. In 2006, I broke away from my employer and struck out on my own with little more than a handful of clients and a burning desire to succeed. The Chamber has been instrumental in helping me grow a successful business.

The Chamber has not only helped me make business connections, but has provided me with a sense of community and belonging that only comes from a group that is dedicated to the cause and passionate about helping others succeed. I have seen and experienced firsthand how this Chamber helps others grow.

Mentorship is of particular importance to me. I am grateful for not only the guidance and knowledge of Chamber members, but from others in my life who have had an impact on my business career. With mentors that were there to push, challenge and listen to a young entrepreneur, I have seen many in this Chamber who have benefited from working with other members across various industries. I hope to encourage and foster a sense of mentorship within our Chamber and look to promote this powerful tool to help our communities continue to grow and excel.

I look forward to the opportunity to build upon the Chamber’s storied past and am excited to see what the future of the Chamber will hold. I consider myself lucky to be a part of this organization and will be proud to serve this community.

Karl Klingmann II President, Penn Rise Advisors, LLC

8

——Spring/Summer

2019 • Volume 4——

Karl Klingmann II

Western Chester County Chamber Events All events are open to the general public. Visit www.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.

Feb. 23 Chester County Home Show, presented by the Western Chester County Chamber 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

TCHS Brandywine March 5 SCORE Business Seminar: Understanding Cash Flow 3:45 to 5:30 p.m.

Marriott Courtyard Coatesville March 14 Making Connections Happy Hour 4:30 to 6:30 p.m.

Mr. E’s Tavern March 19 Bright Spot Cafe Grand Opening & Small Business Financial Checkup 7:30 to 9 a.m.

March 22 Ribbon Cutting Celebrating Coatesville Savings Bank’s 100th Anniversary 8:00 to 9:30 a.m.

March 29 Municipal Update Luncheon 11:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Greg A. Vietri, Inc.

April 9 Making Connections Happy Hour 5 to 7 p.m.

Location TBD April 11 Workforce “What’s Working to Build our Talent Pipeline” 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Chester County Public Safety Training Campus May 2 SCORE Business Seminar: Have your Best Sales Year Ever 3:45 to 5:30 p.m.

Marriott Courtyard Coatesville May 9 Making Connections Happy Hour 5 to 7 p.m.

Location TBD May 17 WCCCC Golf Outing 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Coatesville Country Club June 4 Chamber Day in Harrisburg 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

June 13 Gala on the Greene 5 to 7 p.m.

Lukens Historic Grounds July Corporate Citizenship Date & Location TBD Aug. 6 Agricultural Summit & Taste of Western Chester County Farms & Restaurants 4:30 to 7:30 p.m.

Romano 4H Center Aug. 8 WCCCC Night at the Reading Fightin’ Phils 7 p.m. start Fireworks after the game Aug. 22 SCORE Business Seminar: Effective Communication Between the Generations 3:45 to 5:30 p.m.

Marriott Courtyard Coatesville

The Chamber hosts the Corporate Citizenship, an event that recognizes a local non-profit each year for their commitment to community service.

Career and training fairs focus on the Chamber’s mission of strengthening workforce options.

The Coatesville Grand Prix is held every September with an exclusive Chamber VIP Area.

Chamber members engage in business tours of local businesses and organizations. ——For

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

9

Western Chester County Life|

Victory: The continuing evolution of a Chester County beer

By Richard L. Gaw Staff Writer

and love of brewing could pave the path to successful careers as brewers.

Barchet left his job as a financial n 1973, fifth-graders Ron analyst and started an apprenBarchet and Bill Covaleski ticeship at Baltimore Brewing stepped aboard a school bus, Company (BBC), working under on their way to a new school, and a Dutch-born and German-trained it was during that bus ride that a brewer named Theo DeGroen. friendship was formed that would After working there for nearly a eventually launch one of the most year, Barchet had the necessary successful companies in the hisprerequisites to move on to study tory of Chester County – and one at the Technical University of that remains close to home.

Munich at Weihenstephan.

“Chester County is more than Immediately upon Barchet’s a place of business for us,” departure, Covaleski took over Covaleski said. “It’s my home, it’s Courtesy photo Barchet’s former position at BBC. Ron’s home, and it’s always been Ron Barchet and Bill Covaleski launched Victory Brewing He expanded the company’s Victory’s home. This is where we Company in 1996. line of beers to include several were able to realize a lifelong dream, and we owe so much of that to our people, neighbors German specialty beers, many of which went on to win muland customers who have continued to support us and embrace tiple awards at the Great American Beer Festival. After his time at BBC, Covaleski completed his brewing studies by traveling us as their hometown brewery.”

The story of how Victory Brewing came to be may have to Munich, Germany to attend Doemens Institute.

Armed with experience, skills and a desire to create their begun on a school bus ride, but it developed into what has become a long friendship, even as Barchet and Covaleski went own label, Barchet and Covaleski officially opened Victory Brewing Company on Feb. 15, 1996. What was once a to college on opposite coasts.

Just months out of college, Bill’s appreciation of good beer Pepperidge Farm factory became home to a 144-seat restauand access to his father’s home brewing equipment inspired rant, 70-foot-long bar and a full-scale brewery. In its first year, him to explore the hobby. In 1985, Bill gave Ron a home Victory Brewing Company brewed 1,725 barrels of beer.

The decision to open their brewery in Downingtown was a brewing kit as a Christmas gift and a mutual passion grew, side by side. Fueled by a friendly competition to become direct result of the location’s access to the incredible quality accomplished home brewers, Barchet and Covaleski’s passion of water that was found in the East Branch of the Brandywine took over, and both grew disillusioned with their jobs in the Creek.

“We were committed to finding the best possible ingredients corporate world. Over time, they realized their combined skill

I

10

——Spring/Summer

2019 • Volume 4——

for our beer and water is obviously a key component,” says Covaleski. “The water here is what makes Victory beer taste the way it does – clean, fresh and full of flavor.”

Now, 23 years later, what began as a passion project and relatively small operation, is now an established leader in the craft beer industry, with Victory distributing beer to more than 35 states and nine countries.

“It’s become bigger than we intended, that’s for sure,” Barchet said. “It’s been a wild ride and we’ve been very fortunate to grow our love for beer here and surround ourselves with unbelievably talented and passionate people. At the end of the day, Victory has always been about people, those who brew it and those who drink it. It was like that when we first started, and the same is true today.”

Chester County has continued to be at the heart of Victory’s success. With the brewery’s initial success and eventual need for expansion, it was important for Bill and Ron to keep the operations here and stay as close to that same water source as possible, which led to the opening of the company’s main production facility in nearby Parkesburg.

It was also with the opening of the Parkesburg facility that the company’s early commitment to the environment was really taken to the next level. The state-of-the-art facility was retrofitted from a former Green Giant brite-can facility and designed around sustainability, with technologies such as sky tubes and smart lights. The smart lights read the ambient light generated by the sky tubes and adjust their energy output accordingly throughout the building.

The brewhouse and packaging lines were also designed with efficiency in mind, where water and heat are re-circulated, allowing it to recover much of the primary energy used. Upon the completion of the Parkesburg project, a cross-departmental committee was also formed to track water, electricity, natural

gas and solid waste levels, record benchmarks and identify opportunities for additional improvements.

The dual love for beer and environment eventually led Bill and Ron to establish the Headwaters Grant in 2013, in an effort to preserve and help keep Victory’s (and Chester County’s) water source clean.

The Headwaters Grant, which provides funds and support for local water advocacy groups along the Brandywine Creek, was named for the beer which pays the ultimate homage to the importance of clean water, Headwaters Ale. A portion of sales from every Headwaters Ale sold is donated directly through the Headwaters Grant, and customers can do their part by purchasing one of the beers at a local store or by ordering a pint at one of the brewery’s three Chester County area taprooms, in Downingtown, Parkesburg and Kennett Square.

The Victory taprooms have become must-visit destinations for craft beer fans in recent years and groups from all over the country visit year-round to take a brewery tour, check out the Continued on Page 12 Courtesy photo

When it comes to labels, Victory Brewing has become known for its inventive use of names and graphics.

Victory’s Parkesburg location. ——For

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

11

Victory Brewing Continued from Page 11

latest merchandise and, of course, taste the beer.

“Our taprooms are really the best way to get the full Victory experience,” Barchet said. “Not only for the beer, but to meet our people and enjoy the food that our chefs create to complement the work of our brewers.”

All three of Victory’s taprooms offer a seasonal menu that features a wide range of beer-inspired food items, with everything from the signature giant pretzel to house-smoked meats and fresh seafood.

“Whether it’s for a quick lunch or night out, our taprooms offer a fun and social setting,” said Event Manager Ani Meiklejohn. “Each taproom has its own unique character and we just gave our original Downingtown taproom a full makeover to be able to better accommodate the evolving residential and commercial populations of our town.”

The taproom and population surrounding the original brewing location are not the only things that continue to evolve for Victory. In Feb. 2016, Victory formed a landmark alliance with Southern Tier Brewing Company, under parent company Artisanal Brewing Ventures (ABV). As the first major transaction of 2016 within the rapidly evolving craft beer industry, this union presented a new model for craft beer partnerships by preserving brewery independence while pooling deep

12

——Spring/Summer

Photos by Richard L. Gaw

The company’s brewing location in Parkesburg is a state-of-the-art facility.’

collective resources.

This new strategic framework between ABV, Victory and Southern Tier provides capital, security and vision for the future. ABV, formed to unify independent craft brewers and distillers, embraces the collaborative craft spirit while administering crucial growth resources.

Under the umbrella of ABV, Victory and Southern Tier will independently operate their breweries, commanding a joint Continued on Page 15

2019 • Volume 4——

Victory Brewing Continued from Page 12

capacity of over 800,000 barrels of potential annual production. This alliance creates one of the largest brewers in the Northeast and ranks within the top 15 craft brewing companies in the United States, with combined 2015 shipments of over 250,000 barrels, according to Brewers Association criteria.

With a world-class roster of complementary beer brands and an even stronger standing in the marketplace, ABV will shepherd Victory and Southern Tier in collaborative sales and marketing efforts to strengthen, support and expand its distributor and retail partnerships. Victory and Southern Tier brands will become increasingly available to loyal and new consumers across their combined markets as a direct result of this union.

“The craft beer community is at its most critical moment since its inception as larger brewing corporations have bought into our grassroots movement, irrevocably changing the marketplace,” Covaleski said. “Like-minded brewers such as Victory and Southern Tier can preserve our character, culture and products by banding together. The craft beer industry is not slowing down and the brewing landscape today, compared to even five or six years ago, is incredibly competitive.

“Although the core of our brand is rooted in old world European brewing traditions, our ability to focus on innovation,

——For

Photo by Richard L. Gaw

Victory beer is distributed nationally to 35 states and to nine countries in the world.

infuse our creativity and knowing what our customers crave is what will allow us to have further sustained success.”

To learn more about Victory Brewing Company, visit one of the taprooms or online at victorybeer.com.

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

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

15

Meet Our Member:

The Little Chef Restaurant:

‘The place where family and friends gather’ celebrates 65 years

By Richard L. Gaw Staff Writer

T

he Little Chef in Coatesville is known for its extensive menu, its excellent and plentiful food and its warm and friendly service, but at its core, the restaurant is best defined by something that comes purely from the heart of what it means to walk into a restaurant, and be welcomed there like a lifetime friend.

On any given morning, or perhaps during the busy lunch hour, Nick Lymberis, his brother Peter or his mother, Olympia, can pop out from the kitchen at their landmark restaurant, scan down the counter or catch a quick look at the booths, and be able to identify every customer by name, and also be able to reel off other members of their respective families.

It’s an intangible quality that’s an inherited one, handed down from the time the Sullivan family first opened the Little Chef 65 years ago to former owners Gus and Laura Svokos, who in turn passed it along to the Lymberis family, who has owned the restaurant since 1998.

“It’s hard work, dedication and allowing ourselves – all of us – to get better every day, seven days a week,” Peter said.

“It’s the ability to find the same energy every day. Believe me, we’ve worked through night shifts and morning shifts and on weekends. Day in and day out, year in and year out, there are no breaks. It’s a constant process to deliver great food and quality service.”

Throughout life, teachers and mentors come at different times, and those best suited for the job pass along skills, knowledge and inspiration that set other lives into motion. For the Lymberis brothers – Peter, Nick and John – their classroom of life began before they were even teenagers. They went to work for Gus and Laura Svokos – their distant relatives – at the restaurant, and began by sweeping floors and cleaning tables.

Soon, the Lymberis brothers got swept up in the frantic pace of running a restaurant – from the secrets of how to make sauces to absorbing the front-of-the-house chemistry of how to take care of customers.

“My dad used to work here at the restaurant from 11 p.m. to 7 a.m., after working from 3 p.m. to 11 p.m. at a nearby factory,” Nick said. “He would bring us here, and at first, we would just sit in the kitchen, but we came back again, and 16

——Spring/Summer

Photos by Richard L. Gaw

Peter and Nick Lymberis proudly stand with their mother, Olympia, behind the counter at the Little Chef Restaurant in Coatesville, which is celebrating its 65th year in business.

again. John was the first one to get a job here, and I followed him, and then Peter came behind me.”

Over time, the menu at Little Chef also evolved to the point where it is now known for its extensive breakfast offerings; its lunch menu of homemade soups, home style meatloaf and signature sandwiches; a dinner entree list that include Prime Rib, Chesapeake chicken, center-cut pork chops and Jetta’s pork loin; and its late-night menu that features Best-in-Town burgers.

“Peter and I give total credit to our former chef, Jamie Vasquez, for his influence in the kitchen,” Nick said. “He taught us so much about every phase of cooking, so the menu he helped create is still very popular with our customers, and it’s one that’s still evolving.

“Keeping the dream of the Sullivan’s and the Svokos’ alive would also not be possible without the love of my wife Sara and our four children, Bia, Sophia, Gregory and Alexandra.”

Throughout its 65 years in business, the Little Chef has been handed from one family to the next – from the Sullivans’ to the Svokos’ and to the Lymberis’ – in an unbroken chain of hard work and commitment. From its beginning, the restaurant on 2019 • Volume 4——

Strode Avenue has advertised itself as a “place where family and friends gather” for generations of customers, and a glance at the restaurant’s many wall hangings clearly reflect that sentiment.

One stands above the rest; its message is marked in chalk on a frame near the front counter, and it’s authored by Marvin J. Ashton, a long-time member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints: “If we could look into each other’s hearts and understand the unique challenges each of us face, I think we would treat each other more gently, with more love, patience, tolerance, and care.”

“At least five people ask to take a picture of that every day,” Nick said, motioning toward the quote. “Honest to God, that’s what life is about. We’re all going through battles. Life is a battle, and you need to be ready to take that battle on, whether you have to come to work every day, or take care of your kids as they move through the world.

——For

In addition to its extensive menu of excellent food, the Little Chef Restaurant has become known for its interior signage, which embraces the restaurant’s commitment to the community it serves.

Wait staff member Kaylin Ortiz is part of the friendly team at the Little Chef Restaurant.

“At the end of the day, it boils down to how you handle what you’re given and what you choose to do with it. You have to look into the mirror, honor yourself and do the best job you can.”

Throughout its first 65 years and what will very likely be its next 65 years, there has never been a better item on the Little Chef menu than that.

The Little Chef Restaurant is located at 152 Strode Avenue, Coatesville, Pa. 19320.

To learn more about the restaurant and see its complete, breakfast, lunch, dinner and late-night menus, visit www.thelittlechefrestaurant.com, or call 610-384-3221.

Take-out and home delivery is also available.

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

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

17

Chester County Parks located in Western Chester County Hibernia Springton Manor Warwick Wolf’s Hollow For activities, hiking, lectures and more, visit their websites at chesco.org/178/Parks.

Community Days Visit your local municipal website to enjoy your local community day.

Final Fridays in Parkesburg from April through October. facebook.com/PAC19365/

Local Farmers Markets Downingtown Farmers Market Eagleview Farmers Market growingrootspartners.com Remember to “Buy Local” from our area farmers. Chester County has 1,730 operating farms, most of which are family-owned. Use the Farm Finder Guide 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 in Western Chester County Atglen, Coatesville, Honey Brook, Parkesburg Libraries host a wide array of programs and events. ccls.org

March 7 National Iron & Steel Heritage Museum Women’s History Month Lecture - 6 p.m.

50 S. 1st Ave., Coatesville, PA 19320 steelmuseum.org

March 16 Atglen Public Library Designer Bag Bingo 6 to 9 p.m.

Proceeds to benefit the Atglen Public Library. Price includes 20 games, with three bingo cards for each game. Prizes of new Longaberger baskets filled to the brim with goodies. Raffles of specialty items.

For tickets, please call the library at 610-5936848 or 717-490-1791.

March 23 Elverson Antique Show & Sale Saturday March 23 11am - 5pm Sunday March 24 11am - 4pm Twin Valley High School Celebrating 50 years! This spring show will feature over 30 dealers. Showcasing furniture, folk art, Americana and pottery.

March 23 Maple Sugaring 1 to 4 p.m.

Wolf’s Hollow County Park Maple tree sap begins to flow as the weather begins to warm. Participants can learn how a maple tree is tapped and how the sap is

HATT’S HARDWARE 2803 E. Lincoln Hwy. Thorndale, PA 610-384-1954 18

——Spring/Summer

2019 • Volume 4——

boiled to make real maple syrup at this session held at Wolf’s Hollow County Park. chesco.org/178/Parks

April 27 23rd Annual Race Against Violence 9 a.m.

This is the Crime Victims Center of Chester County’s annual 5K race and walk in West Chester. Take a stand against violence with CVC. Thousands of victims and families that they’ve personally helped over the last 45 years will appreciate your support. cvcofcc.org

April 27 Star Party at Wolf’s Hollow Park Atglen Library will be holding a star party with the Chester County Astronomical Society at Wolf’s Hollow Park. ccls.org/158/Atglen-Public-Library

April 27 Sheep & Wool Day 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Springton Manor Farm The sheep are losing their winter wool and you’re invited to the shearing. Spend a day on the farm, experiencing sheep shearing, wagon rides, artisan displays and demonstrations, plus many new and exciting family activities. chesco.org/178/parks

May 4 & 5

May 18-19

4th Annual FISH Rodeo for kids

Tough Mudder 2019

Hosted by FISH (Fathers Involved Shedding Hope) Join in the event that brings community together to show the youth of Coatesville the power of fishing and the strength of an involved family. Fathers involved Shedding Hope (FISH) was born on that dream and established by David Terry in 2015. For more information or to help volunteer, contact FISH by calling David at 484-883-7200 or email FISHCoatesville@gmail.com.

Facebook.com/fishcoatesville

Same epic venue, brand new course at Plantation Field in Coatesville/Unionville.

Teams square off against ten miles and 20 obstacles. brandywinevalley.com

May National Iron & Steel Heritage Museum 13th Annual Rebecca Lukens Award presentation The Rebecca Lukens Award honors individuals who exhibit the qualities of Rebecca Lukens -- resilience, leadership, courage, and strategic outlook. Join the National Iron & Steel Heritage Museum to recognize the 2019 recipient. steelmuseum.org

TMACC - Transportation Management Association of Chester County May 13 through May 17 – Bike to Work Week May 17 – Bike to Work Corporate Challenge www.tmacc.org

May 12 27th Annual Willowdale Steeplechase This family-friendly event is enjoyed by over 10,000 spectators who spend a casual yet sophisticated day in Chester County’s horse country. willowdalesteeplechase.org

6 p.m.

The Annual Garden Party at Springbank Farm.

Enjoy a festive evening of cocktails, a light supper and the one and only “Battle of the Berries at Brandywine” at the foundation’s signature event, and help to build a culture of health in the greater Coatesville area. brandywinefoundation.org

May 26 Marshallton Memorial Day Parade The parade begins at 1:30 p.m. at the Goddard School (on Strasburg Road, just east of the intersection with Sugars Bridge Road). Join other township residents and friends lining Strasburg Road to honor the memory of the men and women who served our country. westbradford.org

May 30 to June 2 Strawberry Festival Brandywine Health Foundation This spring, the beautiful grounds of the Brandywine Hospital will be bursting with exciting entertainment, family fun, food, fireworks, laughter, music and more at the annual Strawberry Festival. brandywinefoundation.org

June

May 18-19 Chester County Studio Tour 2019 Visit the studios and enjoy the spring weather while traveling the winding roads of Chester County. Give art, or buy that special piece of art for yourself. This spring, the tour will showcase the best artists and studios in Chester County. Be prepared to spend the entire weekend engaging in the arts. countystudiotour.com ——For

May 22 Brandywine Health Foundation Garden Party

25th Anniversary Celebration of Town Tours and Village Walks honoring “Our Villages Then and Now.” Chester County will unveil their schedule of Town Tours and Village Walks in April 2019.

Take advantage of these free tours and discover parts of Chester County you may not have ever visited. chescoplanning.org/HisResources/ TownTours.cfm

June 1 OABEST Expo 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

The Octorara High School will be hosting the annual Octorara Agriculture, Business, Environmental, Science & Technology Expo, known as the OABEST Expo. This community day fair showcases what Octorara students do. The collaborative community event is for the entire family to enjoy. Local industry partners, businesses, colleges, educational mobile lab facilities, government officials, development councils, and workforce boards are joining the expo with a variety of interesting and fun-filled demonstrations guaranteed to pique the interest of all members of the community. oabestexpo.com

June 9 French Creek Iron Tour 2018 Cycle through historic Iron Furnace country and have a blast! French & Pickering Creeks Conservation Trust preserves open space where iron blast furnaces and forges served as cornerstones of industry in colonial Pennsylvania – hence, “Iron Tour.” When you ride in the French Creek Iron Tour, you have a direct impact on the preservation of the scenic countryside that surrounds you. Since 1967, French & Pickering Creeks Conservation Trust has protected 12,500 acres of agricultural, natural and park lands and created greenways and trails along the two creeks. irontour.org

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

Continued on Page 20

19

Continued from Page 19

July 27 Di-Atglen Alley Wizard Faire

June 21, 22, 23 Chester County Balloon Festival The 13th Annual Chester County Balloon Festival is the must-attend event at New Garden Flying Field in Toughkenamon. Filled with activities on the ground and in the air, the festival provides family fun for all ages, with more than 100 vendors, live bands and fireworks. The festival is proud to be a non-profit organization, with portions of the proceeds going to the Chester County Hero Fund as well as other local youth community groups, such as local Boy Scouts and athletic groups. ccballoonfest.com

July 6 Coatesville Unity Day & Music Festival Starting at 3 p.m. Fireworks will be at dusk. coatesville.org

20

——Spring/Summer

11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Follow Atglen Library on Facebook for all the breaking news. Live owls, magic show, magical marketplace. Free kids’ activities, including Potions, Wandmaking, and Herbology classes. Escape room, food trucks, shopping. atglenpubliclibrary.com. Facebook.com/ DiAtglenAlley

Aug. 10 91st Annual Chester County Old Fiddlers’ Picnic (rain date Aug. 11) 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Hibernia County Park will come alive as hundreds of musicians and music lovers gather to celebrate traditional music using a variety of instruments and styles. The event features vendors offering a variety of craft items and novelties, as well as food options, jam sessions, and children’s activities. Hibernia County Park, 1 Park Road, Coatesville, PA 19320. checo.org/parks

2019 • Volume 4——

Aug. 23-25 Second Annual Citadel Country Spirit USA The producers of Country Summer, Northern California’s biggest country music festival, proudly present Country Spirit USA, an annual, multi-day country music spectacular. Located at the prestigious Ludwig’s Corner Horse Show Grounds. brandywinevalley.com

Aug. 31 to Sept. 2 Ludwig’s Corner Horse Show & Country Fair 76th Anniversary The Ludwig’s Corner Horse Show is one of the longest-running shows in the area. It is a Chester County tradition for people to attend and compete in this show annually. ludwigshorseshow.com

Sept. 11 National Iron & Steel Heritage Museum Coatesville Remembers 18th Anniversary World Trade Center Commemoration From 8:30 to 10:30 a.m., NISHM’s program will include marking time of events that morning, words from local dignitaries, and music from members of the Lukens Band.

10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., free admission to indoor exhibits and videos.

The thousands of victims of the 9/11/2001 terrorist attack on the World Trade Center twin towers will be remembered. The service will take place at the site of the Steelworkers’ Memorial, which is marked by one of the ten 50-ton World Trade Center steel tridents recovered by the museum in 2010. Free Event. steelmuseum.org

——For

Sept. 21 4th Annual Coatesville Invitational Vintage Grand Prix Coatesville will come alive with the sights and sounds of vintage and historic cars and motorcycles roaring through the streets of the city.

The event gets started at 8:30 a.m. with a Color Guard ceremony and our National Anthem. Cars go off at 9 a.m. and follow a 2.2-mile course along Lincoln Highway, encompassing the heart of the city and its neighborhoods. Admission is free. coatesvillegrandprix.com

Sept. 28 4th Annual Bike the Brandywine Explore the scenery, glimpse the history, and discover the lure of the Brandywine during the third annual Bike the Brandywine! Three fully supported loops are available to riders – approximately 25, 45 and 80 miles long, with well-marked routes, rest stops and cue sheets provided to all riders. All three routes treat riders to breathtaking landscapes throughout the Brandywine Creek Greenway, with money raised supporting the clean water programs of the Brandywine Conservancy.

Register at www.bikethebrandywine.org.

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

21

Western Chester County Life|

Local non-profit, Petals Please, uplifts spirits

By Rachel Cathell

P

etals Please is a non-profit, all volunteer, green recycling organization with the sole purpose of spreading joy to the elderly through the repurposing of flower arrangements.

After retiring from a career in hospice, founder Beth Adams realized that the flowers created and delivered to patients could be done on a much bigger scale. She enlisted help from family friends and began breaking down large arrangements that were donated by funeral homes, weddings and event venues. The volunteers then rearranged the flowers into smaller bouquets, creating a perfect bedside gift for individuals in retirement homes, hospice and life care communities.

Six months after the organization’s inception, they’ve created approximately 2,000 bouquets. This feat could not be possible without the volunteers who contribute to arranging and delivering, and completing other tasks needed to maintain the organization.

Partnerships with local life care communities, funeral homes, event venues, brides and florists also contribute to fulfilling the mission of Petals Please. The arrangements donated from these facilities are otherwise discarded.

“These beautiful and large flower arrangements unfortunately just go to waste after the event is over,” Adams said. “We give the arrangements a second purpose as a compassionate gesture to those who could use a lift of spirits.”

Petals Please was proud to introduce a second layer to the organization, a partnership with Meals on Wheels. This partnership allows Adams and her team to deliver flowers to homebound individuals. The team also added on the concept of delivering compassionate arrangements to victims and survivors of tragic events.

Currently, Petals Please is headquartered at the Downingtown

22

——Spring/Summer

United Methodist Church, where volunteers gather to create arrangements and prep deliveries. Adams and her volunteers, along with community groups, band together to visit delivery sites, a trip that reveals the biggest reward of all. The visits and arrangements create an experience for both the volunteers and the recipients.

“The visits alleviate isolation and increase socialization for people that may not get many visitors” Adams said. For the volunteers, the visits are a rewarding sense of community service. “We’ve had families volunteer to deliver. It is a special feeling to see children make these visits and realize they can give back.”

The development of Petals Please has been a learning process for Adams, especially the maneuvering of establishing a non-profit organization. Once that feat was tackled, she had to find donated space that could accommodate the process. She began the non-profit in her own garage, but quickly realized the space limitations were a problem. The organization is grateful for Downingtown United Methodist and Church of Christ in West Chester for donating space, however, they are once again growing and running out of room.

Finding additional space is a priority as the organization moves forward.

Petals Please is totally dependent on donations, so Adams is working to build awareness by hosting fundraising events.

One event is called Flowers after Hours, where attendees learn to create arrangements with the one rule being to make one arrangement to keep, and the second to donate. The organization is planning an event to coincide with the first day of spring on March 20. Adams said, “Flowers After Hours is an event that is fun for attendees, all while doing a service.”

Moving forward, Petals Please plans to build more partnerships with other community organizations to continue 2019 • Volume 4——

spreading flower power to those who need it the most. The organization always welcomes donations and volunteers. Volunteers can find themselves doing many things. “We like to match our volunteers with a topic that they are great at,” Adams said. “For example, some make arrangements, others do clerical duties and some help with new ideas and promotion.”

Petals Please accepts flower donations, with a free pick-up option. Items in high demand are glass or plastic containers and tea cups for small arrangements, floral supplies, preservatives, financial support and wine packing inserts, which make delivery much smoother. For more information on Petals Please, visit www.petalsplease.org.

——For

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

23

Meet Our Member:

Family connections inspire electrical construction firm Large projects, emergencies, handled by G.A. Vietri, Inc.

By Natalie Smith Staff Writer

I

f it weren’t for his close relationship with his father, Greg Vietri might not have ended up in the electrical business.

But a boyhood spent at the side of his electrician dad, Vincent, eventually led Vietri to establish G.A. Vietri, Inc., an electrical construction firm.

The Coatesville business specializes in large, complex projects, including restoring electrical service as a PECO Energy storm contractor, handling the wiring of treatment plants for Aqua Pennsylvania, and installing lighting for sports stadiums at Bishop Shanahan High School, the Coatesville Area School District and Ursinus College.

Those endeavors are a bit of a change from the ones handled in the storefront that Greg opened in 1985 on Valley Road in Valley Township. An early-retired Vince had joined his son’s business, where initially they did residential and light commercial work. “[We did electrical work on] new homes, old homes … that was primarily what we did because we didn’t have the manpower or equipment in the early days,” Vietri said. “Then we started doing small commercial work and buildings, like fabrication shops that needed equipment hooked up, and it just kind of grew from there.”

And grew it did. For the 35 years he’s been in the business, Vietri has been broadening his company’s services, including utility pole line construction, cable fault locating and solar electric installation.

In 2004, Vietri opened his current Meetinghouse industrial park location, which now is comprised of two buildings totaling about 85,000 square feet to house upwards of 40 work vehicles, equipment and inventory.

“We started doing water and wastewater-treatment plant work, and that’s a big part of our business today,” he said. Wastewater plants in South Coatesville, 24

——Spring/Summer

Photo by Natalie Smith

Greg Vietri, founder of G.A. Vietri, Inc., Electrical Contractor, has been working in the business for more than 35 years. He credits much of his success to his late father, Vince, himself an electrician, with whom he had a close relationship.

G.A. Vietri, Inc., did a medium voltage switchgear replacement at the Neshaminy Water Treatment Plant. The work was done for Aqua Pennsylvania.

Left: A tower relocation was done in the Garrison Oaks development in Dover, Del. Far Left: Vietri performs a pole line cross arm replacement for ArcelorMittal steel producers in Coatesville.

2019 • Volume 4——

Lancaster and Ambler are just some that Vietri’s company has installed, as are water treatment plants for Aqua Pennsylvania and the Pennsylvania American Water Company.

Vietri Electrical’s breadth The late Vince Vietri, with his wife, of work also includes “heavy Betty. underground” construction.

Vietri explained, “If you would take, for instance, downtown Kennett Square. We did a job there a few years ago, where we installed a new PECO feeder through the center of town. You don’t see electrical poles in the middle of the town anymore, do you? They call that heavy underground.”

And 24-hour emergency management of all those installations is among the services the company is known for, Vietri said. “First, you must have the manpower and equipment, but second, be able to have the material to make the repairs.

Electrical emergencies can happen when supply houses are not open. Therefore, to offer emergency service, we maintain a large computerized inventory.”

Those crisis calls run the gamut for need, time and day, Vietri said. “We take calls on Saturdays, Sundays, holidays and nights ... for some very large customers such as the school districts of, Coatesville, Octorara, Downingtown, Avon Grove, and Lower Merion; area municipalities, local water and wastewater treatment plants, hospitals and industrial manufacturing facilities. No matter if there’s a problem on the weekend, I’m confident we can fix it or get it fixed. We’re poised to fix it.”

Are there a lot of calls on weekends and holidays? “Two or three,” Vietri said with a laugh. “The phone does seem to ring on Saturday and Sunday mornings.”

Another service in high demand from Vietri, particularly after storms, is providing generators.

“We have a large fleet of portable generators that we go up and down the East Coast with,” Vietri said. “We have all sizes.

Whatever you need, we can provide them.”

He said the firm purchases some of its equipment new, and some at auction. “We have a full mechanical shop here, so we can do restoration,” he said. “This past summer, we had generators in North Carolina. The year before that, we had a whole fleet of generators in Puerto Rico. We’ve had equipment in Florida. It’s amazing where this equipment goes.”

Vietri and his good friend John Philips of Philips Brothers Electric are partners in Northwestern Chester County Rentals, from which they lease specialty electrical construction ——For

Photo by Charles Bartholomew

Vietri was involved in the renovation and expansion of the Colonial Theatre in Phoenixville.

equipment for the electrical industry.

Working with PECO as a storm contractor, Vietri’s firm handles a lot of electrical service restoration. After an ice storm, Vietri and his crews were working seven days a week for three weeks, helping to restore power to customers. “Hurricane Sandy was another big one,” he said. “Then you can get quite a few summer storms that just sneak up on you, and the next thing you know, 300,000 people have lost power.”

Vietri, who lives about three miles from his business and admitted to working at least six days a week, smiled while musing about Mother Nature’s capriciousness. “So between the generators and the storm restoration, broken poles, there’s never a dull moment around here,” he said.

But the value of hard work is something Vietri learned from his father, Vince, with whom he worked until the elder Vietri’s death in 2014. Their connection was forged and strengthened when a young Vietri would accompany the “go-to guy in Coatesville’s Italian-American community” on jobs.

“I just always remember being with him. Not sure if it was to get me out of my mother’s hair,” Vietri said, laughing. “There was kind of a special bond between myself and my father. Ever since I can remember – maybe 9, 10 years old, when I was old enough to go with him.”

In addition to learning at the knee of an expert, Vietri attended Chester County Vocational Technical School, graduating in 1977. He also likes hiring employees with similar backgrounds. Vietri’s crew of 35 is “very loyal,” he said. “You’re only as good as your help, and I believe we have some of the best people in the business.”

Vietri said he sometimes gets asked by other business people how he was able to expand and develop his business so successfully for so many years. “If you asked me in 1982, when we were running around putting an outlet in for a neighbor, if it would have evolved into something like this? I just always tell everybody I had a great father.”

Natalie Smith may be contacted at DoubleSMedia@rocketmail.com

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

25

CCEDC emphasizes tech and innovation for economic growth

D

uring the past year, the Chester County Economic Development Council (CCEDC) set ambitious goals and established new strategic priorities in response to the needs of the business community. Key among these was a focus on technology and innovation.

Our Ideas x Innovation Network (i2n) received a $100,000 grant from the County of Chester to enhance and strengthen the county’s innovation ecosystem. The i2n initiative provides regional support for innovation and entrepreneurship by providing access to funding, entrepreneurial advising, real estate solutions, and connections to strategic partners and other start-up resources. i2n engaged more than 90 emerging growth companies in life sciences, information technology energy, and other advanced industries. Likewise, the companies in the innovation ecosystem spent nearly $23 million for research, development and testing.

Through valued university partners such as Penn State Great Valley and West Chester University, i2n – along with our Innovative Technology Action Group (ITAG) -- were able to

provide tech-centered programming in our own backyard.

Tech360, our annual technology conference, was held at Penn State Great Valley for the sixth year. The conference provides a full-day tech experience that features tech education, leadership, innovation and networking. We partnered with West Chester University to provide the firstever Angel Venture Fund Workshop and TechStars Weekend in Chester County to support local entrepreneurs.

The County of Chester, along with Ben Franklin Technology Partners of Southeastern Pennsylvania, established the Venture Chesco Fund. This $4 million fund helps implement one of the goals of VISTA2025 – the public-private partnership effort that is focused on creating and implementing an economic development strategy for the county. As a key partner in VISTA2025, CCEDC will help support the start-ups and early stage business ventures that receive funding from Venture Chesco.

CCEDC also: Transitioned to a new service model – the Next Generation of partnerships that allowed our Industry Partnerships (IPs) to identify more than $500,000 in grant support for incumbent

Chester County Commissioners Terence Farrell (left), Michelle Kichline (center right) and Kathi Cozzone (right) present a check for $100,000 to the Chester County Economic Development Council for its i2n program, boosting tech startups in the county. Pictured from the CCEDC are Chief Operating Officer Mike Grigalonis (second from left), Gary Smith, President and CEO (center left) and Patrick Hayakawa, Vice-President, Innovation and Emerging Technologies (second right).

26

——Spring/Summer

2019 • Volume 4——

worker training and implement a new STEM Innovation approach to serving more than 4,300 youth through a privately funded academy initiative.

Along with partner 2nd Century Alliance, received a $500,000 grant from the Wells Fargo Regional Foundation (WFRF) in support of the Coatesville Growing Greater Neighborhood Revitalization Initiative

Financed more than 20 projects that helped businesses grow and that created jobs for our talented workforce.

Partnered with the Chester County Planning Commission to produce award-winning opportunity maps for the Route 724 and Route 1 initiatives.

We look forward to working with all of our valued partners, such as the Western Chester County Chamber of Commerce, in 2019 to ensure the continued growth and prosperity of Chester County!

Learn more about the Chester County Economic Development Council at www.ccedcpa.com along with its Ideas x Innovation Network at www.i2npa. org and Innovative Technology Action Group at www. itagpa.org.

To get involved with programs supporting technology, innovation and entrepreneurship, contact Patrick Hayakawa, Vice President, Innovation & Emerging Technologies, at 610-321-8205 or phayakawa@ccedcpa.com.

Panelists discuss ‘Blockchain and Cryptocurrency: What Innovative Professionals Can’t Afford to Ignore’ during the annual Tech360 event.

——For

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

27

Western Chester County Life|

Lively parks, health

By Kirsten Werner Natural Lands

L

ess than an hour’s drive from Philadelphia is the city of Coatesville, an epicenter of steel production in eastern Pennsylvania. Coatesville has faced the same economic and social challenges that other industrial towns have experienced.

At Palmer Park, a one-acre neighborhood park on the east end of Coatesville, the city’s challenges are evident. A chainlink fence and barbed wire surround the swimming pool that’s been closed for more than a decade. The basketball court’s blacktop is decaying, and community members voice concerns about safety.

It wasn’t always this way. Lifelong Coatesville resident James Bookman remembers when Palmer Park first opened.

“Everyone went there,” he said. “It wasn’t just a park; it was like the hub of the community.”

Bookman’s childhood memories include basketball tournaments, night swimming at the pool and summer block parties, where the sound of laughter and music would echo into the twilight. He watched Coatesville’s parks decline over the decades, and with them, opportunities for kids to have safe outdoor places to play and for older adults to gather with friends.

Thanks to a partnership among the City of Coatesville, Natural Lands, the Brandywine Health Foundation, countless residents like Bookman and his wife Deborah, and community groups, Coatesville’s parks are being revitalized. When the Bookmans learned there were openings on the Parks & Recreation Commission, they jumped at the chance to get involved. They were among the more than 140 people who attended a 2016 public forum, co-hosted by the City of Coatesville, Brandywine Health Foundation, Natural Lands, and Parks and Recreation planner Ann Toole. The forum, along with an online survey completed by nearly 700 residents, was a critical first step in developing an action plan for the city’s parks.

“From the outset, we knew public input was essential to the planning process,” said Oliver Bass, president of Natural Lands. “Typically, a public forum about parks might attract a

28

——Spring/Summer

dozen people. The response from Coatesville residents was greater than we could have dreamed. They want safe, clean, beautiful parks for people of all ages to use, engaging park programs and a commitment to ongoing maintenance … and they are eager to help.”

2019 • Volume 4——

thy people The resulting plan, called “Coatesville Parks 2021: An Action Plan for Lively Parks and Healthy People,” marked the beginning of a now two-year-old initiative, Greening Coatesville, that’s aimed at improving access to the outdoors within Continued on Page 30

——For

Community parks like Palmer Park are vital for connecting children to nature. The park will soon provide a variety of ways for residents to splash, climb, or just relax in a natural setting. Coatesville was one of only three communities nationwide to receive such a grant in 2017.

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

29

Palmer Park Continued from Page 29

the city. Greening Coatesville brings together city leadership, residents and community organizations – with help from the Brandywine Health Foundation, which works to achieve health equity for all who live and work in the greater Coatesville area, and Natural Lands to implement the plan.

Following the creation of a neighborhood-informed master plan for Palmer Park in 2017, partners moved quickly to begin its implementation. Thanks to a major grant from the American Water Charitable Foundation and NRPA, along with generous support from ArcelorMittal, the park’s long-closed swimming pool will be replaced by a unique nature and water play area. A splashpad area with seven water features will feed a man-made stream that leads to a shallow, rock-lined wading area. The top of the stream originates in a circular plaza surrounded by benches, with an old-fashioned hand pump that can also be used by children (or childlike adults!) to interact with the water.

30

From the plaza, a series of concrete paths will wind through the park, past grassy areas, newly planted shade trees, scattered boulders and seven “nature play” features, including an embankment slide, a post hop, web climber, tension line, log balance, stump jump and branch climber.

Ann Toole, who worked on “Coatesville Parks 2021: An Action Plan for Lively Parks and Healthy People,” asserts that parks are more than just places for children to play.

“Better access to parks has been shown to result in a 25 percent increase in people exercising three or more days per week,” she said. “In southeastern Pennsulvania, a study found more than $1.3 billion in avoided annual health costs due to access to parks and open space.”

Parks have also been demonstrated to improve safety. In Macon, Ga., for example, a revitalized park is reported to have helped reduce incidents of crime and violence by 50 percent.

“Investing in our parks has long-term benefits for the community as a whole in building social cohesion, creating healthy environments, and increasing opportunities for Coatesville residents to be active,” said Vanessa Briggs, president/CEO of the Continued on Page 32

——Spring/Summer

2019 • Volume 4——

Palmer Park Continued from Page 30

Brandywine Health Foundation. “The Greening Coatesville initiative, along with the American Water Charitable Foundation grant, is a prime example of the transformative work that leads to healthier communities and has already spurred interest among the surrounding municipalities to examine the use of their parks and green spaces as a population health intervention.”

What’s more, positive changes in urban parks and green spaces play a role in economic revitalization. Cities where parks, recreation and trails play a vital role in the lives of residents are vibrant places to live and are, therefore, attractive to businesses and residents.

The Greening Coatesville initiative is part of a larger, city-wide effort to stimulate investment in the city. In 2017, the Chester County Economic Development Foundation and the Coatesville Area Partners for Progress completed a neighborhood revitalization strategy.

The resulting plan, called Coatesville Growing Greater, lays out five-year action strategies to address issues of resident engagement, jobs and economic opportunity, youth empowerment, and community safety.

Greening Coatesville and Coatesville Growing Greater are happening simultaneously, and that is not an accident. Community leaders recognize that improving the economy and enhancing quality of life through parks are complementary and essential. These two initiatives set the stage in creating a culture of health in Coatesville, where health equity is becoming the norm as a shared value across sectors and systems.

“The reawakening and renewal of our city parks translates into regeneration of the lives of our families,” said Linda Lavender-Norris, Coatesville City Council president. “We will be forever grateful for the relationship that we’ve established with Natural Lands, which will last throughout time. We extend these same sentiments to the Brandywine Health Foundation and our county government for investing in our health and well-being.”

Every success will advance the city’s vision for the future. While Palmer Park is just a small space, its revitalization will make a world of difference to the community and will represent the winds of change that are stirring for Coatesville.

32

——Spring/Summer

2019 • Volume 4——

Bookman agrees. “You might think, does it matter to change one little park?

But, change one and who knows where it leads! The good energy in Coatesville is snowballing.”

Support for Greening Coatesville has come from American Water Charitable Foundation, Applestone Foundation, ArcelorMittal, Chester County, Chester County Community Foundation, City of Coatesville, DolfingerMcMahon Foundation, PECO, the Philadelphia Foundation, Stewart Huston Charitable Trust, and the William Penn Foundation.

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.

Michael Guyer VP/COMMERCIAL LOAN OFFICER

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

——For

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

33

Western Chester County offers many recreational opportunities

By Brian O’Leary Executive Director of Chester County Planning Commission

N

estled in the western side of Chester County is a 900-acre park with trails, woodlands, meadows, open fields, play areas, pavilions, campgrounds and picnic areas. There are opportunities to fish along the Brandywine Creek’s west branch, Birch Run, and at a children’s pond. A great spot for boating and fishing can be found at Chambers Lake.

This place, Hibernia County Park, will be expanding by 210 acres, providing for additional public recreation opportunities and open space protection. The county purchased the property at auction for $2.1 million, according to David Stauffer, capital projects coordinator at the Chester County Department of Facilities & Parks. In addition, the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) recently awarded the county a $500,000 Community Conservation Partnerships Program (C2P2) grant, which is payment toward the acquisition of the additional acres.

“The new park property is approximately 90 percent forested, with significant areas of interior forest buffering areas of floodplain and over six acres of forested wetlands along Cherry Run, a tributary to the West Branch of Brandywine Creek,” Stauffer said. “Existing logging roads will be used as future trails to facilitate public park access and use of the property.”

Hibernia County Park is just one of several recreational opportunities in western Chester County. Another exciting project is the Chester Valley Trail West, which will extend the trail westward across Chester County. When built, it will serve as a link in a continuous multi-use trail network between Harrisburg and Philadelphia. The final report for this project is available at the Chester County Planning Commission’s website (http://chescoplanning. org/transportation/cvtw.cfm).

In addition to the Chester Valley Trail West project, the Planning Commission will begin implementing initiatives in Landscapes3, the county’s new comprehensive plan, this year. Initiatives that pertain to western Chester County include updating an inventory of natural resource ordinances; producing an urban design guide; creating an inventory of redevelopment sites; revising the Transportation Improvement Inventory to reflect Landscapes3 priorities; and preparing a new Transportation Priority Projects list. For more information, visit www.chescoplanning.org/Landscapes3/.

The Planning Commission also will continue to assist municipalities through the Chester County Vision Partnership Program (VPP). Atglen Borough adopted an updated comprehensive and revitalization plan in November 2018, a project with which we were pleased to assist the borough.

“During the development of the plan, it became evident that parks, recreation and pedestrian connections were key focus areas for improvements, and a more detailed study would be required beyond the capacity of the borough’s plan,” said Atglen Borough Manager Caren Andrews.

34

——Spring/Summer

The cover of Landscapes3, Chester County’s newly adopted comprehensive plan.

The Brandywine Creek in Hibernia County Park is a great place to go fishing in western Chester County.

2019 • Volume 4——

Atglen utilized the information gathered for its draft plan and applied for a DCNR C2P2 grant in the spring 2018. DCNR awarded the borough a $31,000 grant in November 2018 for a master park study. “This study is an immediate step to implement the borough’s newly adopted comprehensive and revitalization plan, and provide for enhanced parks and recreation facilities for its residents,” Andrews said.

The City of Coatesville also received two DCNR C2P2 grants in November 2018 for Ash Park and Palmer Park, two of the priority projects in “City of Coatesville Parks 2021: An Action Plan for Thriving Parks and Healthy People.” The plan is part of the Greening Coatesville Initiative that was launched in 2016 by Natural Lands, the City of Coatesville, and the Brandywine Health Foundation. The initiative aims to improve access to recreation opportunities, improve health outcomes, and build community cohesion in the city.

The state awarded a $40,000 grant to the city to prepare a master site development plan and swimming pool feasibility study for the 9.3-acre Ash Park. Work on this revitalization plan and study will begin by summer 2019, according to Natural Lands Director of Urban Programs Sang Phouansouvanh.

The one-acre Palmer Park project consists of four phases altogether, and Phase 1 of the park – a unique nature and water play area – is under construction. The master plan for this park was developed with the help of a $20,000 VPP grant. “It was such a valuable contribution, since it allowed for funding of the master plan for Palmer Park and helped us to move quickly from plan to implementation,” said Phouansouvanh.

Atglen Borough adopted an updated comprehensive and revitalization plan in November 2018.

Phase 1 implementation in 2018 also was made possible through a $62,720 Chester County Preservation Partnership Program grant, she said.

The city recently received a $250,000 DCNR grant for phases 2 and 3 of Palmer Park, which will consist of installation of lighting throughout the park, making repairs to existing play surfaces and equipment, creating additional pathways to augment accessibility to the park and amenities, and reclaiming park space to be used as additional play area.

As you can see, community planning and implementation have helped shape many outdoor recreation experiences in western Chester County.

We look forward to continuing our assistance to municipalities as they move forward with projects and look for ways to implement their plans. If you are seeking funds to support implementation, check our website for a list of grant opportunities from multiple sources.

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.

Above: This rendering shows what the Chester Valley Trail West project will look like when built. The trail will extend the popular trail westward across Chester County.

Right: The one-acre Palmer Park project in the City of Coatesville consists of four phases. Phase 1 of the park – a nature and water play area – is under construction. ——For

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

35

Meet Our Member:

Coatesville Rotary:

Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow

By Alissa Griffith Rotarian

M

ost people have heard of Rotary, but do you actually know what it is?

The Rotary Club was started in Chicago in 1905 by Pal Harris and three of his business associates. They would rotate meeting locations, and thus the name Rotary originated. Today, it’s an international service organization whose purpose is to bring together business and professional leaders in order to advance goodwill and provide humanitarian services around the world. The organization is comprised of 34,282 member clubs worldwide, and 1.2 million individual Rotarians.

What do they do? Rotary clubs connect people, transform communities and solve problems by: Promoting peace Fighting diseases Providing clean water Saving mothers and children Supporting education Growing local economies In 1985, Rotary started its PolioPlus Program. They have contributed more than $1.7 billion and countless volunteer hours to immunize more than 2.5 billion children worldwide.

The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation has pledged to match funds 2:1 to completely eradicate this disease.

The Coatesville Rotary was formed in 1924. A weekly luncheon meeting was held at the Coatesville YMCA, which was their home for 51 years. In 1979, the club moved its meetings to the Coatesville Country Club, where it remains to this day.

During the early years, the club took an active interest in improving the YMCA. They assisted with membership growth, summer camps, program planning and financial maintenance.

36

——Spring/Summer

They have continued to support both the YMCA and YWCA. The club has hosted and sponsored students to go abroad with its student exchange program. They also donated $10, 000 to the Coatesville Margolies Public Library in 1980 by spearheading the grapefruit sale with the Coatesville High School Meistersingers, which became their primary fundraiser for many years.

If you’ve ever been the Brandywine Hospital’s Strawberry Festival, perhaps you’ve tasted one of the delicious hamburgers or hot dogs that the Rotary prepares, or purchased ride tickets from the ticket booth manned by Rotarians. With the money raised by this and other fundraisers throughout the year, the Rotary gives back to the community in the form of grants. Each year, $15,000 to $20,000 is donated through these grants to various organizations, such as The Coatesville Library, The Coatesville Senior Center, Handi-Crafters, The Coatesville Blind Association, The Salvation Army, Coatesville Back-toSchool, Canine Partners, Coatesville Youth Initiative, Bridge of Hope, Coatesville Kids to College, Art Partners and many more.

In a service capacity, Rotary provides volunteer assistance of gift wrapping at the Exton Mall for the Coatesville Senior Center, serves lunches at Olivet Church for their “Bread and Blessings,” and has a strong community presence.

Other projects that they are involved with are: Fight Against Hunger Food Drive, benefiting the Chester County Food Bank. Last year, they collected more than 6,000 pounds of food from money and food donations. This equated to 5,030 meals for those who struggle with food insecurity.

Each year, dictionaries are distributed to all third graders in the district by Rotarians.

A “4-Way Test” competition is sponsored at the high school each year. Each week during the school year, students from Coatesville Senior High are invited to lunch to visit and learn about Rotary.

2019 • Volume 4——

Working in conjunction with Good Works, the Coatesville Rotary was able to help fund and assemble the lending libraries that have been placed in various locations throughout the city of Coatesville.

Rotary also assisted the Food Bank in distributing turkey dinners to the community before Thanksgiving.

Rotary participates in a yearly road clean-up.

Recently, they held a blood drive at Olivet Church to collect “Shoes for Soles,” which were sent to underprivileged countries.

In 2018, Coatesville Rotary partnered with 2nd Century Alliance to hold the First GrandPrix Preview Party.

The Coatesville Rotary sponsors the Interact Club at the Coatesville High School. Interact is Rotary International’s service club for young people, ages 12 to 18. The club promotes leadership skills, respect and helpfulness for others, the value of individual responsibility and hard work.

The Coatesville Rotary awards three scholarships to students in the Coatesville School District every year: $500 to a senior for extended vocational or business skills training; $1,000 to a student who shows exceptional involvement and leadership in their Interact Club; and $5,000 to a graduating senior for academic achievement.

The Coatesville Rotary meets for lunch each Thursday at the Coatesville Country Club at noon. A program is presented each week by a community member or organization relating to our community and abroad. All meetings conclude with reciting the 4-Way Test: A guideline for all we think, say and do: Is it the truth?

Is it fair to all concerned?

Will it build goodwill and better friendships?

Will it be beneficial to all concerned?

The Rotary Club of Coatesville, as well as many of its members, have been members of the Western Chester County Chamber of Commerce since its inception in 1924. If you are interested in our community, helping others and making a difference in our world, visit www.coatesvillerotary.org, or better yet, join us for a meeting. Be a part of the exciting future of the Coatesville Rotary as they approach their 100th anniversary!

The Coatesville Grand Prixview Party.

Above: Coatesville Rotary members building Lending Library boxes.

Left: Coatesville Rotary members cooking hamburgers and hot dogs at the Strawberry Festival.

——For

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

37

Western Chester County Life|

Cooperation and safety are goals at Chester County Public Safety Training Campus

By Natalie Smith Staff Writer

I

t takes a person of extreme courage and training to run toward an emergency when others are fleeing. Fires, accidents and gunfire – the first responders of Chester County have handled them all and citizens are safer for it.

But keeping the skills of emergency responders and Emergency Management partners honed is as important to their safety as it is to the public’s, and extensive preparation can possibly make the difference between life or death. The Chester County Public Safety Training Campus in South Coatesville offers police, fire and EMS professionals a place to heighten their knowledge and prepare for those incidents to come.

Under the direction of the county’s Department of Emergency Services, the 94-acre campus off Modena Road in South Coatesville was acquired from steel producer ArcelorMittal, and its three phases were dedicated over seven years -- the academic building in 2012; Tactical Village in 2015, and firing range in March of last year.

But the foundation for the campus began long before its acquisition, with commitment from the County Commissioners to create a training campus that served all first responder professionals. Every aspect of the facility was designed for emergency responders by police, fire and EMS personnel.

In their comments at the opening of the firing range last year, Commissioners Michelle Kichline, Kathi Cozzone and Terence Farrell pointed out that nearly 300,000 times a year, someone in Chester County calls or texts 911 for help from one of the 47 police departments, 52 fire departments, 28 Emergency Medical Services agencies and the hazmat team that serve 500,000 citizens. Training together provides safe and efficient emergency response operations.

The training center has proven very popular locally, regionally and nationally.

“You know, ‘If they build it, people will come’? It didn’t take long,” said J. Patrick Davis, Deputy Director of Law Enforcement Services for the DES and a retired Uwchlan Township police chief.

Instruction comes both in the classroom and through 38

——Spring/Summer

practical application from teachers in various disciplines. A firefighter might learn about hazardous materials, an EMT could pick up a refresher course on respiratory trauma, or a police officer might receive “Situational Awareness Weapons Training,” while Emergency Management personnel are being trained in hazard mitigation.

“About 75 part-time instructors do all the training here in the county, and we bring people in if they have an expertise in something,” Davis said, adding that students “come from all over the region because we offer classes that other places don’t.”

A goal is to make responders as prepared as possible, with the emphasis on cross-training, said Davis, who’s a longtime member of First West Chester Fire Company, and whose father helped found Goshen Fire Company. He gave an example: “It’s like when you go out to a crash, a DUI or fatal. It used to be the EMS personnel would come in and their priority, obviously, is to treat and take the victims out of the scene,” Davis said. “Now I’m looking at it as a police officer, and this is a crime scene, and they’re coming in and moving debris, et cetera. The education that we can provide them from the law enforcement perspective, and they tell us what they need, and we all work together.”

The Drill Tower/Scenario Building in the Tactical Village, used for fire, rescue and other exercises.

2019 • Volume 4——

From left: Gerard Lindenlauf, Law Enforcement Training Coordinator; Jim Vito, Firing Range Instructor; and J. Patrick Davis, Deputy Director for Law Enforcement Services of the Chester County Department of Emergency Services, are shown at the 50-yard indoor shooting range at the county’s Public Safety Training Campus in Coatesville.

J. Patrick Davis, Deputy Director for Law Enforcement Services, Chester County Department of Emergency Services, displays a real weapon (with paintball ammunition) used during some educational exercises.

“Or it might be as simple as [firefighters] going to a scene, and a young police officer is parked directly in front of it [blocking access],” said Gerard Lindenlauf, the Training Center’s Law Enforcement Training Coordinator, whose background includes firefighting, serving on a haz-mat team and being a New Garden police officer before retiring from that post. “It’s better than yelling at one another when they get to a scene. The whole point is that we train together, and they get the idea of, ‘Maybe I shouldn’t do that.”

He added, “We call it the 1,000-foot view. If they could be up on top, looking down, thinking, ‘This is a really bad idea.’ If you do it in training, it’s one thing. Do it in real life … you only do it once, hopefully.”

The Tactical Village presents seemingly endless opportunities for responders to learn. The five-story Drill Tower/ Scenario Building has many uses.

“Not only can we do fires in the building -- it’s set up with propane props, such as a stove -- but you can also rappel down the side,” Lindenlauf said. The Village utilizes numerous props such as trash cans, large Postal Service mailboxes and more, all of which can be moved around as needed. The campus has also been the training center for regional bomb squads, which also incorporate the props in their training.

Across the street, the Burn Building’s facade resembles a block of cement rowhomes or businesses, with well-earned smoke and scorch marks out front.

“It gets a lot of different uses,” Lindenlauf said. “We could be running two or three different scenarios, depending on

A view looking toward the target area of the 100-yard indoor shooting range.

The monument commemorating A view from above the Law Sept. 11, 2001 is in the shooting Enforcement Tactical Firing Range, range building. or ‘shoot house,’ which can be reconfigured to simulate many types of residential or commercial building interiors.

Continued on Page 40 ——For

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

39

Safety Training Campus Continued from Page 39

how many folks we have here. We burn a packing material called excelsior. This allows for a controlled burn, in that we control the amount of heat that we’re creating inside. In everything we do here, safety comes first, so we’re not trying to get folks burned. We’re just trying to expose them to the fact that, ‘This is what you’re going to see.’ The heat’s a problem with a fire, but more of a problem is you can’t see. We don’t want it to get so hot they don’t want to go back in.”

The building can also simulate a barn fire. “We can do that, too,” Lindenlauf said. “What people don’t understand is that all structure fires are basically the same; they may be constructed out of different material.”

Nearby is a Flashover Simulator, a prop which mimics a transitional phase in a fire, moving it to fully developed with temperatures upwards of 1,200 degrees. “They can get the heat so high in there, when they introduce oxygen you see a flash,” he said. Up a hill is a rescue pad, where they simulate vehicle extrications using donated cars, trucks and a Krapf’s school bus. “We have propane fire props and we can simulate car fires, propane tank fires, pipeline fires, et cetera,” Lindenlauf said.

Law enforcement uses the buildings as well. They train in the Drill Tower, where among the significant skills learned is the safest way to go up and down stairs, Lindenlauf said.

There are three indoor shooting ranges on campus: A 50-yard, live-fire tactical range; a 100-yard live-fire tactical range; and a 2,500-square-foot Simunitions Shoot House.

They have picked up quite a few fans since the doors opened last spring. The men said agencies wanting to use them have signed up into November of 2019.

“We have the ATF come in and use it regularly, and the FBI also comes in,” Davis said. Homeland Security, the National Park Service, a private security company and an armored car company also use them. The design of this range facility takes it outside the norm of conventional firing ranges.

“For training, we may have a target turned on edge, as they approach, the target presents itself,” Lindenlauf said. “It may

A bullet-proof safety vest is shown after having been hit by paintball ‘bullets’ during an instructional session.

or may not have a gun. It may just be somebody holding a cell phone. So they have to identify, ‘Is that a threat or isn’t that a threat?’ and take the appropriate action from there.

“We have our instructors developing courses, like threat assessment. ‘What did you see when you first walked up?’ It’s important to get people to identify things. ‘What did you see?’”

They can alter the lighting to light each individual target or darken it to adapt for a police officer’s required “dim light shoot” requirement. “If you give us enough time, we can figure out a lighting scenario for just about anything,” Lindenlauf said.

Davis noted how this shooting range was different. Training used to focus on hanging paper targets. “But that’s not realistic,” he said. “When a target faces you and turns for four seconds … cops train for time, because you only get so much time to react and stay alive.”

Training moves on to a different level with the Tactical Firing

ASK OUR TEAM HOW to keep healthy.

brandywine.towerhealth.org

40

——Spring/Summer

The ‘simunition,’ or 8-mm paintball bullets, are used in the Law Enforcement Tactical Firing Range.at the Chester County Public Safety Training Campus.

Participants are still required to wear safety gear.

2019 • Volume 4——

range, or “shoot house.” In an area with adjustable walls that allow for hundreds of different room configurations, participants are armed with real guns -- with paintball ammunition – and participants put on protective gear.

“Most shoot houses are called live-fire,” Davis said. “The walls are concrete and are covered with steel, and then when you’re actually walking through, you are using a real gun with real live rounds. But what we’re using is ‘simunition’ [simulated ammunition]. We are shooting real guns that are modified to shoot only an 8-mm paintball. It sounds like a real gun, and for the most part reacts like a real weapon, because it’s coming out of a real cartridge.”

Davis said it makes the training more realistic because you are able to confront actual live adversaries. “You have ability to walk from a lighted hallway into a dark room with the bad guy hiding or sitting in the corner. What do you do? It just takes training to a whole other level.”

For Davis and Lindenlauf, the campus directive of crosstraining first responders is working, but they understand the need to continue.

Davis gives credit to George “Beau” Crowding, Deputy Director of Fire Services, and the late James McGowan III, retired Downingtown police chief, who promoted the cross-

——For

The Burn House at the Chester County Public Safety Training Campus allows first responders to deal with fires and other emergency situations.

training. “Jim was a career responder. He was police chief in Downingtown, he was a fire chief in Downingtown, and he was an EMS captain there,” Davis said. “So he had his finger in everything. He and Beau understood the value of having all the disciplines being trained together.”

“So our bottom line is the more training we can give these first responders -- whether it’s fire, EMS or law enforcement -- if we can send them all home at night as intact as they were in in the beginning of the day, we’re winning,” Lindenlauf said.

Natalie Smith may be contacted at DoubleSMedia.com.

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

41

Meet Our Member:

Quik-Stop Pharmacy

Alissa Griffith and her father, Robert Steele.

By Nina Malone Arbonne

S

ometimes you want to go to the pharmacy where everybody knows your name … and your family’s names, and probably your pet’s name, too. In Western Chester County, that’s Quik-Stop Pharmacy in Thorndale, a familyowned and operated pharmacy which has been serving customers with care for three decades.

We sat down with pharmacist Alissa Griffith to get the whole story.

What’s the first thing that hits you when you look back on 30 years?

I think about how this is our family business that my dad, Robert Steele, started, and how it’s remained a family business for all this time. My mom, Illaria, also has been there from the start, first as a cashier, and then as the person who organized and kept things on track. They created it!

Then, that we do this because we care. My parents built a solid foundation; they deserve all the credit. I got to come in, keep it going and move it forward. Our recipe for success is we have a great staff working together for the good of the people in our community.

Give us a quick history lesson on how Quik-Stop came about.

My dad was destined to be an entrepreneur: His parents

42

——Spring/Summer

had five businesses, so he grew up with that and passed that mindset along. His original store was in Pottstown in 1977.

I was 8 years old and would go with him on weekends to clean the shelves for $5 and lunch. He just kept teaching me more and more, all through high school. But the real joy for me was getting to spend a lot of time with him and learn from him. In 1988, he opened Quik-Stop. I graduated from pharmacy school in 1993 and joined full-time.

How has an independent pharmacy thrived for all these years?

It’s the tone that my dad set from day one: You treat everyone with compassion. People come in largely because they’re sick, so our job is to make sure they get what they need. My dad always figured a way to work with those who had financial issues, and we still do that to this day.

I also give a lot of credit to my mom, who was the driving force of the pharmacy. She made sure that everything was ship-shape. She still keeps an eye on things and pitches in when needed, whether that’s pulling weeds, dusting shelves or being a community ambassador. My dad has retired, but he still has his pharmacy license and comes in to help out, too. It’s always been a labor of love for them both.

Our staff is also another reason people love to come here.

We have employees who have been with us from 10 to 19 years; they’re lifers because it’s a happy, nice environment.

2019 • Volume 4——

It’s not working as much as it’s being surrounded by friends and family. Our customers feel the same. Our waiting area can become a mini-party! We see people hanging out and talking long after their prescriptions are filled.

What are Quik-Stop’s full range of services?

In addition to filling prescriptions and many of the usual things you’d find in a pharmacy, we have a full line of medical equipment and braces, and are certified measurers for compression stockings. We also have greeting cards that are 50 percent off all the time. A great pharmacy service we offer is MEDSYNC, which means we review all your prescriptions and fill them at the same time. We can also do unit dose packaging in blister packs to make taking medicines easier. We deliver, too, which is free to a five-mile radius.

We’re really proud that we were the first in the county to have a drive-through window. And we’re delighted to offer online ordering through our website and our app to make refills easier. We’ll text or call you when your prescription is ready.

Who are great referrals for you?

Everyone who is looking for a more personal experience.

We get most of our referrals from our customers, which is humbling and wonderful. In fact, our customers often thank us, which is a wonderful compliment.

You’re a Western Chester County Chamber of Commerce board member and officer, and in line to be president in 2020. Why did you get involved?

I joined to be more involved in the community, and I’ve learned so much about what goes on in our area. I’ve made wonderful connections by attending events. You have to attend events to get all the benefits of being a member. I was honored to be asked to join the board, and have had some terrific mentors. The more I do, the more I enjoy. If you’re a local business and not already a member, come check us out.

It’s clear that this family has made an impact on our area, and continues to do so by serving with a smile. We’re honored to have Quik-Stop as a Chamber member and Alissa as a board officer. Here’s to another 30 years!Quik-Stop

Quik-Stop Pharmacy in Thorndale has been serving customers with care for three decades.

——For

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

43

Western Chester County Life|

Wolf’s Hollow Country Park Chester County’s sixth regional park is rich in history, rich in beautiful scenery, and even has links to modern-day popular foods Chester County officially opened Wolf’s Hollow, located near Atglen, on Dec. 6, 2010.

The 569-acre park lies along the uppermost reaches of the Octorara Creek and the south rise of the broadening Great Chester Valley. The park’s natural features provide beautiful bluffs where visitors can overlook the creek and glades of Mountain Laurel.

Nearly ten miles of trails wind through varied topography, providing hikers with routes ranging from moderate to challenging. Birders appreciate the several hundred acres of mature woodland habitat that attracts many less commonly observed birds, such as Brown Thrashers, Scarlet Tanagers and Baltimore Orioles.

44

——Spring/Summer

2019 • Volume 4——

T

he first record of ownership of the land that is now Wolf’s Hollow County Park was in 1733, when Philadelphia merchant Samuel Mickle requested a warrant of 1,000 acres, which included the current park property. In 1743, Samuel Mickle issued a mortgage to John Dunn for a parcel located at the center of the park. After the War for Independence, the first President of Delaware, Dr. John McKinly, briefly owned the land.

In 1788, Samuel Cochran, a local resident and Surveyor General, took out a warrant for Wolf’s Hollow and patented it within three months for James and David Sterrett. Initial research indicates they were in the American Revolution and the land grant may have been compensation for their service in Gen. George Washington’s army.

Successful forges were located on the Lancaster side of the Octorara Creek during the 19th century. Stone ruins along the trail where it passes closest to the Octorara River suggest the remains of a long-forgotten industrial enterprise. Wolf’s Hollow is an apt name for this land that exchanged hands many times. as it was virtually impossible to earn a living from the property.

Throughout the first half of the 20th century, Philadelphia industrialist Leonard Hastings Schoff owned more than 1,000 acres and named his country estate Kanin Ranch. The walking portion of Wolf’s Hollow Drive affords a good view of many of the clues to the history of property, since it follows an early 19th century road. The drive leaves the public parking area and passes the remains of Schoff’s Dam. Those following the road will pass over a small creek which is all that remains of a pond the dam created. The site of the Schoff home can be viewed by walking up the hill.

In the 1980s, a manor house was built at Wolf’s Hollow by Eugene (Gene) Gagliardi, the last private owner of the property.

Gagliardi was a legend in the food business as the creator of the Steak-umm brand and 33 other patents, including KFC’s Popcorn Chicken and Bojangles’ Buffalo Bites. He began his career at the age of 6, working for his father in the family business at 60th and Vine streets in Philadelphia, and in later years Gagliardi’s meat-processing plant was in West Chester, where, at its height, it was slicing 1 million one-ounce Steak-umm slices a week!

Continued on Page 46

——For

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

45

Wolf’s Hollow

Chester County Parks and Trails

Continued from Page 45

Wolf’s Hollow County Park today As part of the Chester County Parks System, Wolf’s Hollow County Park is managed as a rustic, natural park, with no public office and limited comfort facilities. The county holds a limited number of programs and guided hikes at the park year-round. For current information on the programs and hikes, visit www.chesco.org/parks.

The park is open at 8 a.m. every day, except for Christmas Day, and closes at sunset. Dogs are welcome, but they must be on a six-foot leash. For those using the park, there is a “carry in/carry out” policy. Trash cans are not provided at Wolf’s Hollow. Visitors are asked to take their trash along with them. Taking responsibility for waste encourages community awareness of natural resources, and promotes environmentally-friendly behaviors. Wolf’s Hollow County Park is at 1399 Schoff Road, Atglen, Pa. For more information, call the Southern Regional Park Office at 610-932-2589 or visit www.chesco.org/wolfshollow. The park’s web page also includes a trail map.

46

——Spring/Summer

Chester County has thousands of acres of parkland and miles of trails in its six parks, and every season offers a variety of programs and recreational choices. Hibernia, Warwick, Nottingham and Wolf’s Hollow County Parks, Springton Manor Farm and Black Rock Sanctuary are open daily from 8 a.m. to sunset. For more information on all six of Chester County’s parks, plus the Chester Valley Trail, Struble Trail and Schuylkill River Trail, visit www.chesco. org/parks.

2019 • Volume 4——

Wolf’s Hollow County Park’s natural features are loved by many. Here is a snapshot of some of the rave reviews: …“Wolf’s Hollow is a beautiful and inviting place to hike! It’s in a really nice area and feels very safe. There was all kinds of scenery -- hills, fields, woods, flat ground, stream, old homes -- this park has it all!!” …“I cannot say enough about this gem of a place. It is close to me and I feel so at peace there. I have gone to many of the different trails and have always been pleased with the maintenance of trails and security of the area.” …“This is a very nice and quiet park with lots of trees and trails, some are demanding, but a treasure of solitude and beautiful scenery. Nice place for a picnic.”

——For

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

47

Transportation Talk: Adventures on a bus

By Tim Phelps TMACC Executive Director

D

uring the summer as I was growing up, I would pile shorts and T-shirts into my light blue, hard shell Samsonite suitcase and head off to my great aunt and uncle’s house in Arlington, Va., for two weeks. Aunt Honey and my cousin Barry (my mom’s cousin) would plan excursions to the great museums, monuments and historic sites in the DC Metro Region. Those were the days when you could drive past 1600 Pennsylvania Ave. The summer I was 7, I probably had the greatest adventure of them all. Unfortunately, due to the looming gas crisis, family

48

——Spring/Summer

travel was limited, so no one was able to drive me. I was not going to miss my summer excursion, so I took the bus. That’s what all 7-year-olds do. Mom bought me a Greyhound ticket, we went to the station in King of Prussia with my grandparents, and I was given two snacks, introduced to the driver, sat down behind the driver and a transfer in Baltimore. It was Washington D.C. or bust!

Every day throughout our region and around the world, many people travel by bus to work, to shop, for healthcare appointments, or even to see family and friends. For some, this is their only form of transportation; they may not have a driver’s license or have access to a car. Others choose the bus because it’s less expensive, they value their time differently. or it’s just convenient for their schedule.

While in high school, I did not always have access to a car or a ride home after sports. After sports practice on occasion, my best friend Ricky and I would need to figure out which was more affordable, easier and quicker to get home. Was it to take the train to Chestnut Hill West (top of the Hill) or the bus down Henry Avenue and onto Lafayette Hill? This all depended on whose mom was able to pick us up. We learned how to make the bus and train schedules meet our needs.

Today, as the Executive Director of the Transportation Management Association of Chester County, I have responsibilities and oversight to three bus routes in Chester County: SCCOOT, Link, and Evening Link. These services are funded through a state grant, matching funds from the Chester County Commissioners and several municipal stakeholders.

We understand what an important lifeline the service is to the community.

For western Chester County, TMACC operates the Link and Evening Link services. The Link route is “daytime” service from Parkesburg via the Walmart in West Sadbury and on to the Coatesville VA Medical Center and the Brandywine Hospital. Weekdays, the Eastbound route begins at 5:35 a.m. and concludes with its last westbound stop at 8:39 p.m. at the Regency Park apartments. For Saturdays, the first pick-up

2019 • Volume 4——

is at Brandywine Hospital at 8:30 a.m., and service concludes at the Parkesburg Library at 6:15 p.m. A single ticket fare is $2.75, with ages 65 and older riding free with proper identification. The Evening Link travels from the West Sadsbury Walmart to the Exton Square Mall via East Caln and Downingtown along Business Route 30.

The Link service is to help meet the needs of people in western Chester County living along the Lincoln Highway corridor who are trying to access employment, medical appointments and shopping. If you are interested in learning more about the service’s fares, times and stop locations, please visit www.chescobus.com or call 610-993-0911 to request a schedule.

As one can surmise, my trip down to Washington, D.C., was thankfully uneventful.

At the bus depot I was joyfully greeted by my Aunt and Uncle. My mother was even more relieved when we finally called her when we arrived to my Aunt’s house -- no cellphones.

God bless that bus driver for being a friend to an inquisitive 7-year-old who did not have a cellphone or electronic game to entertain him.

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 www.tmacc.org.

• Commercial/Industrial Wiring • Utility Pole Construction • Equipment Rentals • Foundation/Civil Construction • Heavy Underground • Sports Lighting • Cable Fault Locating • Medium Voltage Cable Splicing & Terminating • Process Automation 105 Independence Way • Coatesville, PA 19320 610-857-1110 • Fax 610-857-1191 • www.gavietri.com ——For

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

49

Meet Our Member:

Windy Hill Lavender Farm: A leap of faith, a labor of love

By Ann Lane Chester County Ag Council

“We have worked hard to learn every aspect of growing lavender,” Anna said.

“It’s always been a learning curve for us.

As scientists, we know how to research, riving past the swaying, purple and are constantly trying new ways to rows of lavender at Windy Hill improve our yields.”

Lavender Farm in Parkesburg, one Weather has been the biggest challenge might almost mistake the scenery for a for the new farmers. As they discovered, sunny hillside in Provence. not all varieties of lavender can tolerate But the farmers behind this operation, Pennsylvania’s cold winters and rainfall.

Scott and Anna Larsen, hail from New As a result, the Larsens sought out specific Jersey, where they met and fell in love Anna and Scott Larsen. varieties that thrive in our climate. while working in the same research lab.

Come June and early July, the Larsens and their seasonal After several decades of scientific pursuits, the couple was ready to retire and move close to their children and grandchil- helpers can be found harvesting the lavender by hand, which dren in Pennsylvania. However, unlike many people on the they process into products including fresh and dried bouquets, verge of retirement, they weren’t ready to slow down. “I didn’t essential oil, hydrosol (a lavender-infused byproduct of essential oil production), handmade soaps and dried lavender stems want to sit in front of the TV, waiting for God,” Anna said.

It was Anna who convinced Scott to consider farming. She for the fireplace.

The Larsens take pride in their oil distillation process. Unlike had been heavily involved in their community garden club in other growers, they do not use solvents or high-pressure steam New Jersey, and had a passion for plants, especially lavender.

“We are older, so we didn’t want crops that needed to be because they believe those practices can lead to greasy, less replanted every year or require a lot of maintenance,” Anna nuanced oil. It takes 10 gallons of tiny lavender buds and sevsaid. “If you treat lavender right, the same plants can last 15 eral hours to produce a mere eight ounces of oil, but they feel years. We enjoy growing produce, too, but it didn’t make sense the end result is worth the extra time and effort.

Anna can tell a lot about how lavender oil was produced by to have it be our primary crop, since it would require us to hire a significant amount of extra labor to help us tend and harvest it.” its scent. Unlike other growers, they only process the buds to Once they had their plan, they had to find the right property. make oil. Anna feels that the stems produce a “grassier” smell They looked at many farms that were over their budget until in the final product. Rainfall can also change the oil’s smell. they saw Windy Hill Farm, an abandoned, 10-acre parcel that “The scent changes from year to year, depending on the humidhad once been part of a dairy and crop operation. The Larsens ity during the growing season,” Anna said.

In addition to simply enjoying the scent, customers seek out took a leap of faith and purchased the property in 2014.

While many buyers would have been deterred by the holes in the lavender products for their calming and antiseptic properthe floor that went straight down to the basement, the lack of ties. Some say it diminishes scarring and can be helpful to use running water and the near-constant winds that sweep through after mild burns and insect bites. Others use it to soothe bruised the property (hence the farm’s name), Anna and Scott saw skin, treat acne and even as a household cleaner.

The Larsens recently discovered a new client base in the local opportunity. “We like a challenge,” Anna said.

They lived in a trailer onsite while the main farmhouse was horse community. Horse owners have started purchasing their repaired, researching farming techniques and amending the soil lavender hydrosol to use on their animals to prevent fungal skin in preparation for planting. And it turns out the wind provides infections caused by damp weather.

Although the farm is best known for its lavender, the Larsens the airflow that lavender needs to thrive.

The farm’s location in Chester County was also serendipitous. also have other products, including fresh produce, eggs and “Here you have easy access to mushroom compost; it’s a won- fruit. Of these, gooseberries are their next most important crop.

Like lavender, gooseberries are a perennial plant. They can derful soil amendment,” Scott said. “As new farmers, we have also benefitted enormously from Penn State Extension’s local thrive in cold winters and humid summers and are more experts and publications. This is a great place to learn about shade-tolerant than many other fruiting plants. Historically, gooseberries have been a popular ingredient in pies and farming.”

D

50

——Spring/Summer

2019 • Volume 4——

preserves in Europe, but the fruit fell out of favor in the United States in the early 1900s due to its association with a disease harmful to white pines. Since cleared by the USDA, gooseberries are still hard to find in the region.

The gooseberry harvest only lasts three to four weeks in June, so customers have learned to pay attention to the farm’s website and Facebook page to know when they should purchase their berries for use in jams, jellies and fresh eating (for those who like a tart berry).

Soaps made from the farm’s lavender are a customer favorite.

Customers can purchase Windy Hill Farm products at their farm store, although they close in the winter when their produce season slows down. They sell many of their lavender products year-round at Kauffman’s Fruit Farm (Bird-in-Hand), Crop’s Market (Downingtown) and the Great Pumpkin (West Chester). Customers may also contact the Larsens directly to purchase lavender products at the farm.

With new lavender plants in the ground, updated lavender processing equipment to tinker with, and an eye on some potential fruit tree additions for their orchard, the Larsens show no signs of slowing down to enjoy their “retirement.”

Windy Hill Lavender Farm is at 3211 Lincoln Highway, Gooseberries are a rare treat offered Parkesburg, Call 848-218-0184, or visit www.windyhillfarmpa.com. The lavender fields at Windy Hill Farms.

——For

each year at the farm.

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

51

Traction:

A progress report on the revitalization of the City of Coatesville

By Sonia Huntzinger Coatesville 2nd Century Alliance Executive Director

the residential neighborhoods of the city, revitalizing the downtown commercial corridor, and bringing jobs and economic 2019 promises to be opportunity to the resian exciting year for dents of Coatesville the City of Coatesville.

-- all while working New streetscapes, real to improve the overestate development all quality of life, and projects, neighborcommunicating the hood enhancements, positive attributes and and economic investcompetitive advantage ment opportunities of the city. abound, and here at Last year, in partnerthe Coatesville 2nd ship with the Chester Century Alliance, County Economic we’re glad to be spearDevelopment Council, heading some of these we secured funding important initiatives. from the Wells Fargo If you’re unfamilRegional Foundation to hire a comiar with the 2nd Century Alliance, we munity coordinator. In November, we were formed in 2015 when the City of welcomed Urias Cole, who will be Coatesville celebrated its 100th anniverworking with neighborhood residents sary as a Pennsylvania City of the Third to implement the Coatesville Growing Class. At that time, 18 community stakeGreater Neighborhood Revitalization holders came together with a mission to Plan. This plan includes four key focus ensure that Coatesville’s “second cenareas: Jobs & Economic Opportunity; tury” be economically prosperous for all Public Safety; Youth Empowerment; and its residents and businesses, hence the Resident Engagement. You can always name “2nd Century Alliance.” find current updates on this initiative on We partner with the City of Coatesville, Urias Cole the Growing Greater Facebook page. the County of Chester, and many other Our efforts to improve conditions mission-similar organizations to advance our mission to “improve socioeconomic conditions in Coatesville’s downtown received a boost at in the city, stabilize the city’s financial stature, fos- the end of 2018, when we were successful in ter community and economic development, and securing a Neighborhood Partnership grant from bring resources and stakeholders together for these the PA Department of Community and Economic Development. This is a tax credit program whereby purposes.”

To this end, we have created a five-year strategic donors can contribute to our revitalization efforts plan with focus areas that include strengthening and receive a PA State tax credit as an incentive.

52

——Spring/Summer

2019 • Volume 4——

Two generous donors have committed to annual contributions for the next six years so that we can hire a downtown manager and implement our strategic revitalization plan that includes facade grants and a clean/safe/green program.

This downtown manager will round out the team at the Coatesville 2nd Century Alliance; a community coordinator focused on residential neighborhoods; a downtown manager working to improve conditions in the commercial district; and our economic development administrator working to improve overall economic conditions and promote the opportunities that abound in the city -- all led by an engaged and dedicated Board of Directors and supported by strong and strategic partnerships with the City of Coatesville and the Chester County Commissioners.

Also in 2018, the four U.S. Census tracts that make up most of the city’s geographic area were designated by Gov. Wolf and the U.S. Treasury as Qualified Opportunity Zones. 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 designated zones. This new program will provide

——For

numerous opportunities for investment into the City of Coatesville. Stay tuned for a comprehensive program rollout in the early part of 2019. Should you be interested in learning more about the program in the meantime, don’t hesitate to contact our offices at the Coatesville 2nd Century Alliance. For more information on these and other initiatives in the City of Coatesville, please call 484-7868896 or visit www.2ndCenturyAlliance.org.

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

53

Meet Our Member:

LGH Parkesburg outpatient center offers broad spectrum health care Family medicine, cardiology, lab testing among on-site services

By Natalie Smith Staff Writer

L

ancaster General Health has a long-held reputation for being responsive to the needs of its surrounding neighborhoods. The establishment of its Penn Medicine LG Health Parkesburg outpatient center is another example.

The tradition began with Lancaster General Hospital, which started providing health care to people of the area 125 years ago, and has continued as it grew to include additional locations. “It’s just extraordinary,” said Debra Wertz, manager of ambulatory operations, about the length of service. “LGH has always had the vision to recognize a community’s health care needs and accomplishing them.”

The reputation continued with the establishment of Parkesburg outpatient center at the intersection of routes 10 and 30.

“Having LGH [notice] the need here in Parkesburg, and the whole Chester County surrounding area, is definitely something that they recognized a little over five years ago when they opened this facility,” Wertz said.

The health system initially identified a significant need for primary care providers in the Parkesburg area.

“When we first opened, that was something we definitely focused on, along with our Urgent Care, to have that spectrum of care for patients,” Wertz said. The Urgent Care is open seven days a week to handle patients’ health care needs when their primary care provider is not available.

The primary care practice gives personalized care to the whole family, offering a wide range of services for children and adults. Among the conditions the practice has experience treating children with attention deficit disorder (ADD) and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). And those 65 and older are entitled to a free annual wellness visit.

To reach even more of the community, Spanish is spoken at the practice.

As part of the University of Pennsylvania Health System, the outpatient center has blossomed into an extensive health care center. Among the services offered there are cardiology, OB/ GYN, diabetes care and education, podiatry, trauma and acute care surgery. Need a blood test or an X-ray? Those services are

54

——Spring/Summer

The clinicians at the family medicine practice at the Penn Medicine LG Health Parkesburg outpatient center are (from left) Kimberly Miller, Kristen Durbanis, Walter Steinke, and Emilia Cuneo. The practice is accepting new patients.

also available at the Parkesburg center.

Wertz pointed to even more services which can be accessed at the facility. “We are very excited to announce we recently got a 3D mammography machine, and we have an MRI as well as ultrasound,” she said. “There is a very large physical therapy suite that is in our building; we can conduct EKG and other cardiac testing, and sleep studies are offered as well.”

LGH wants to treat people for all their health needs.

“In order to meet the growing community demand for inpatient and outpatient behavioral health care, LGH has recognized that and partnered with Universal Health Services,” Wertz said. “We opened the Lancaster Behavioral Health Hospital, which is right near downtown Lancaster. It’s a 126bed hospital that features Lancaster’s only behavioral health unit designed for adolescents.

“There are other units that serve older adults and people with medical conditions. But this allows us to meet the needs 2019 • Volume 4——

for the dual diagnoses and substance abuse problems in our community, as well as other critical services. We also include day treatment programs, which enhance existing outpatient services that we know are needed in a region.

“And that’s why LGH has also expanded the number of integrated behavioral health counselors to all of our primary care locations,” Wertz said. “We do have behavioral health counselors available to see our patients five days a week here at Parkesburg. We realized that everyone can’t travel to Lancaster, but they still need that behavioral health treatment.”

An added benefit of having them on location is that it makes for an efficient way for the family physicians to send patients directly over to the behavioral health counselors, Wertz said.

At Parkesburg, counselors are at the facility Monday through Friday.

In addition to all the services available at Parkesburg, an

Debra Wertz is the manager of ambulatory operations at Penn Medicine LG Health Parkesburg outpatient center.

——For

advantage of the LGH-Penn association is that their online systems – MyLGHealth.com and MyPennMedicine.com -can communicate with one another, Wertz said.

“The integration of our electronic medical records with Penn Medicine providers enables our patients to experience a seamless and smooth hand-off when transitioning among Lancaster General Health and Penn Medicine family practices, as well as their specialists,” she said. “We have strengthened the level of coordination among our services.

They can see our records, we can see their notes.”

Mammograms and lab tests can be scheduled online. With a MyLGHealth account, patients may schedule appointments, view test results, request prescription refills and view personal information.

Considering all the recent changes, what’s the next development for Parkesburg outpatient center?

“They are working with some of our Penn specialties to identify the gaps of care in our community and bring the potential of more medical expertise to our Parkesburg outpatient center,” Wertz said.

She pointed out that benefits of coming to a “one-stop” health care facility are many. “If you come see our family medicine practice or even Urgent Care, and you need to get labs done or an X-ray done, or a mammogram done – we can offer that right on our site as well. There’s definitely something exciting for us that we can offer all of that for our patients.”

Natalie Smith may be contacted at DoubleSMedia.com.

The Penn Medicine LG Health Parkesburg outpatient center provides a wide range of health care options, including family medicine, cardiac care and lab testing.

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

55

Western Chester County Life|

Play the course this spring

By Rachel Cathell Communications Coordinator for WCCCC

S

pring is upon us once again, and it brings warmer temperatures and breezy mornings. The next few months are a perfect time to get outside, and what better way than to explore new golf courses?

Western Chester County is home to pristine courses set into the dynamic natural landscapes of the region.

This serotonin-releasing sport may be just the reward you need this spring. Whether you’re in the game for a hobby, socialization or business, a trip to any of the following courses is bound to boost your mindset and willpower.

Coatesville Country Club Coatesville Country Club is Chester County’s hidden gem for family fun with 100 acres of narrow fairways and small putting greens. Pulling up to the property, visitors are greeted by serene views of the neighboring reservoir and glimpses of the varied elevations of the surrounding course.

The course was constructed in 1921 by renowned architect Alexander Findlay for the executives of Lukens Steel Company. Over the years, the club has aligned itself with the steel giant’s major characteristicinnovation. The 9-hole course passed over to private ownership and with extensive renovations grew to 18 holes creating a timeless design.

According to Club Manager, Chris Walton, an average pace of play runs around 3.5 hours with no specific tee-times. Many club members compete in an ongoing challenge amongst one another to see who can complete the course quicker than the last. This flexibility of play options cultivates a laid-back structure and friendly environment while being mindful of people’s time.

“I enjoy the benefits of the private club, such as never needing a tee-time so that I can go out and play a round of golf in a short period of time without interrupting my clients. I often play in less than 2.5 hours, 56

which is unheard of in any other local club” comments club member and Realtor Matt Gorham.

Coatesville Country Club is especially attractive to young families with busy and dynamic schedules. The pool and clubhouse issue a sense of familiarity with members hosting social gatherings and swim meets.

The club offers a perfect setting for any event, from formal receptions of up to 350 guests to intimate casual gatherings.

The club has a wide variety of space configurations to create a unique and memorable experience. Both full golf and social memberships are available.

——Spring/Summer

2019 • Volume 4——

Moccasin Run Golf Club Strategically located a mile off of Route 41, Moccasin Run Golf Club is a unique destination of rolling hills set against a rural backdrop. Conveniently a straight shot from Delaware and Lancaster, this public course is tucked neatly away from the bustle and noise of more populated areas. Locals consider Moccasin Run the region’s best kept secret while more distant neighbors herald it as a perfect getaway.

This getaway course all started in 1987 when Paul King had a vision to transform his working family farm into a golf course. His goal was to maintain open-space while creating an atmosphere idyllic of western Chester County’s breath taking and natural landscapes. The 18-hole course is fun and friendly for beginners, while also providing a challenge for seasoned players. The back nine offers some nice risk-reward holes. The course layout offers short travel times between tee’s and usually plays on average of 4.5 hours.

By 2007, current owners Curt and Grace King purchased the golf course from Paul, continuing a family legacy of excellence in golf. The team at Moccasin Run prides themselves in developing lasting relationships with their players. This trait reflects in their model of accessible golf with a premier yet affordable course.

A complete renovation of the facilities started in 2013

including the opening of the Shotgun Pub & Grille, a light-fare restaurant and bar which is open to the public. Players can sit at the grille and indulge in the sprawling views of the course below. A stones-throw away sits the Carriage Barn, a charming space for your next event.

The significance of engaging younger generations holds a strong spot on Moccasin Run’s radar. Curt King finds it very rewarding to observe the positive development this game can provide to young golfers. Moccasin Run maintains a large and ever-expanding youth program that runs two months during the summer for ages 8 to 17.

French Creek Golf Club In picturesque Elverson, visitors of French Creek Golf Club will discover flowing brooks, woodlands and natural golf hazards that offer a unique and incomparable round of golf for players of all skill levels. This private course encompasses 230 scenic acres with easy access, no tee times and a quick pace of play of under 4 hours.

French Creek Golf Club opened its doors in 2003. The 18-hole championship course and practice facilities are a stunning example of the world class designs of architect Gil Hanse.

The architecture honed in on minimal earth and environmental disturbance allowing the site to remain rich in beauty with dramatic terrain and wildlife. Golf professional Justin Riegel offers golf lessons for all types of players. A complete tournament schedule with more than 30 yearly events are available for both men and women.

On the site of a beautiful old homestead, golfers will discover a stone manor replica adding to the rustic feel. The charm of the clubhouse is that it’s surrounded by many of its original historic buildings. The club’s dining destination is the Grille Room which has a menu of farm-to-table dishes with many of the fresh ingredients coming from the garden on the property.

In addition to the standing menus, French Creek offers a Chef’s Board each Thursday, Friday and Saturday evening. The Board changes weekly and allows Members and guests to enjoy the familiarity and service of their club while exploring new cuisines each week.

French Creek recently restored their 1820 barn which provides the perfect country setting accommodating more than ——For

On the site of an old homestead, French Creek Golf Club’s clubhouse is a stone manor replica and a nod to the rustic roots of the property.

250 guests for all types of events. Their beautifully appointed ballroom boasts hardwood floors and 230 guests can be seated.

French Creek would like prospective Members to experience everything we have to offer first-hand with a goal of showing them that they belong here and that we will do everything we can to make them feel right at home. Prospective new Members will have the privilege of “previewing” the Club for one year without the payment of an initiation fee. During the one year preview term the only responsibility prospective Members have will be the dues, fees and charges applicable to the category of membership in which they are approved.

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

Continued on Page 58 57

Golf Courses Continued from Page 57

Honeybrook Golf Course Once you cross the Brandywine Creek you’ll find Honeybrook Golf course, an escape from the outside world with the only sound being the clip-clop of horsedrawn buggies and the chirping of the birds.

Nestled among Amish farms, this semi-private course hosts protected wetlands that weave through the landscape to form memorable target greens and breathtaking vistas.

Designed by architect Jim Blaukovitch, the club Continued on Page 60

58

Honeybrook Golf Course is an escape from the outside world, with the only sound being the clip-clop of horse-drawn buggies and the chirping of birds.

——Spring/Summer

2019 • Volume 4——

——For

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

59

Golf Courses Continued from Page 58

opened its doors in 2000 after converting an old dairy farm into a neatly structured course. The old stone house, barn and silo sit within the landscape as a reminder of its roots.

Golfers who seek to play a lot of golf at Honeybrook, but are not interested in a membership can take advantage of the convenient 20 or 30 green fee pack bundles.

“We strive to make golf competitive when it should be and fun when it can be. Our staff enjoys introducing new people to the game. Every effort is made to create fun learning experiences” said Donna Horvath, owner and operator.

Honeybrook has a full-service restaurant called the Greenside Grill that has taken on a life of its own. The restaurant acts as a community hub opening its doors to local musicians that perform on the outdoor stage, especially in August when the Annual Music Fest kicks off. The restaurant, in addition to the course, creates a full package experience.

Ingleside Golf Course Located right off the route 30 bypass is Ingleside Golf Course in Thorndale on land once partially owned by President Buchanan. Opened in 1962, Ingleside enjoys holding true to being old school.

The public municipal course is a classic and traditional design with 7 water hazards and perfectly placed trees. In length, the course isn’t long but don’t let that fool you, challenging par 3’s and 5’s and the opportunities for protective greenside bunkering create a challenging game.

Respecting players time is a valuable focus for Ingleside, offering the opportunity to play 5, 9 or 18 holes. The average 18 hole round runs about 3 hours and 45 minutes. The front nine are short and tight while the back nine opens up with longer holes and magnificent vistas. The course is open 7 days a week and their patio and pavilion are available for rentals.

JT Holsman, PGA Head Pro, offers individual and group lessons, playing lessons, junior programs, men’s and women’s leagues, and ladies clinics.

Golf outings are “first class” cost effective without sacrificing service! NEW - indoor golf simulator.

Senior, veterans, junior and corporate discounts are offered.

60

——Spring/Summer

2019 • Volume 4——

Broad Run Golfers Club Broad Run Golfers Club is located in West Bradford Township near the highest elevations of Chester County. The club offers beautiful expansive views and is surrounded by woods. Players start the first tee alongside a stone wall, a remnant of historical significance to the property.

Opened for play in 2000 this public course was created by architect Rees Jones.

The course was constructed on the Como Farm, once home to agriculturist John Beale Bordley. It was on the Como Farm that Bordley conducted numerous experiments on crop rotation and maintenance of soil fertility.

The multi-faceted Bordley, was also a lawyer and held important judgeships in a colony whose legal profession was distinguished by such men as Samuel Chase, Thomas Jefferson, and William Paca.

This course is player friendly from the front tees and challenging from the back tees with

Broad Run Golfers Club is encircled by wooded areas that act as natural boundaries.

smooth and fast bentgrass greens. Golf Pro Tom Morgan states the time to play 18 holes is usually around 4 hours. Tom offers lessons, league play Monday thru Thursday evenings and a senior league Wednesday mornings.

Broad Run Creek runs through the course joined by 54 bunkers, natural wetlands and three ponds. Adding to the natural landscape, the club has a project called the Broad Run Bluebirds which include 45 bird houses throughout the course that attracted over 100 bluebirds last year. The historic Bordley House serves as the clubhouse which is open to the public with an inviting atmosphere, outdoor seating and live music.

ASHI #246193

Home Inspections SPECIALIZING IN: Whole House Inspections, Radon Testing, Well Performance & Water Testing

Inspector: Kevin Kerr

Ground Up Home Inspections 610-324-3064 • ks-kerr@hotmail.com 363 Hill Road, Honey Brook, PA 19344 Proudly Serving Chester County and the Surrounding Counties ——For

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

61

——For

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

63

News from the Honey Brook Community Partnership

The Honey Brook Community Partnership’s treasurer, Tom Tracy, received the Joseph G. Filoromo Jr. Community Service Award.

By Reuben Schonebaum

T

he Honey Brook Community Partnership is extremely proud that its treasurer, Tom Tracy, received the Joseph G. Filoromo Jr. Community Service Award at the Western Chester County Chamber of Commerce Annual Dinner on Nov. 16.

Among other contributions to our community, Tom is active in the Knights of Columbus, organized the carnival for Harmony Day last September, participates in Meals on Wheels at Tel Hai Retirement Community and is an avid

The Hi Ho Workspace is among the new businesses in the area.

64

——Spring/Summer

2019 • Volume 4——

model railroader. At Christmas time, Tom and his wife, Mary Jo, open their home to hundreds of Amish children so that they can enjoy Tom’s wonderful train displays.

In the coming year, the Honey Brook Community Partnership will continue to greet newcomers with Welcome Bags to introduce them to the many businesses and organizations in Honey Brook Borough and Township. As part of its commitment to give back to the community, the Partnership will invite local non-profit organizations to apply to the second annual grant program, with presentations at our monthly meeting in March.

In addition, the Partnership is planning to initiate a program to publicize the products and services offered by local businesses and professionals with postings on the Partnership’s Facebook page, website and “The Buzz” in the Tri-County Record.

There will be a nominal charge for this, which will be used to fund the annual grants to non-profits and the Twin-Valley High School scholarships. As in the past,

the Partnership will provide the same services to non-profit organizations at no cost.

Speaking of local businesses, the Honey Brook business community is growing and has welcomed new businesses, including Suburban Brewing Company and Hi Ho Workspace.

The Cambridge Shoe Shop recently underwent a major expansion of its showroom. Like “Green Acres,” Honey Brook is clearly the place to be!

The Honey Brook Community Partnership is an organization whose mission is to bring together Borough and Township partners to facilitate communication, share resources, and work to enhance our community. The Partnership includes an energetic mix of former and current public officials, representatives of local businesses, members of service organizations and local churches, administrative staff of retirement communities, and resident volunteers.

The Suburban Brewing Company is drawing plenty of interest from local beer fans.

——For

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

65

Meet Our Member:

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford

By Steven Hoffman Staff Writer SERVPRO is an industry leader in residential and commercial property restoration and cleaning services, offering 24-hour emergency services to help mitigate damages from fire or water.

The company likes to say that it has a commitment to being “Faster to any size disaster,” and that commitment to providing a fast response, combined with SERVPRO’s expertise with restoration and cleaning, helps people avoid non-restorable damages to property after a disaster strikes.

The quality of the company’s services to clients is why Entrepreneur Magazine has retained its top ranking in the restoration services category for 10 consecutive years.

According to Cliff Masscotte, the Marketing Manager for SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford, the company’s goal is always to restore vs. replace, and clean damaged property to make it “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford is one of nearly 1,800 SERVPRO franchises, and the service area includes communities along the Route 30 Bypass corridor, through Downingtown and southern Chester County.

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford is local and familyowned, and serving the community well is a point of pride.

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford is owned by David Hughes and Michael Hughes, and the father-and-son team leads what is very much a family-oriented business that also includes the SERVPRO of Cecil County franchise.

David Hughes has been the owner of the SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford franchise for more than 10 years, and has been in the SERVPRO company for almost 30. Michael is the co-owner and vice president of SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford, and is the driving force behind its operations.

Joseph Hughes serves as the construction manager, while Sandie Hughes is the office manager. Katie Hughes handles 66

——Spring/Summer

a number of different duties as part of managing the warehouse’s operations.

There are currently more than 50 employees in the SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford franchise. While they are a local company, they benefit from the national resources that SERVPRO can provide.

SERVPRO was founded in 1967, and actually got its start as a painting company. By 1969, the focus had transitioned to property restoration and cleaning. Today, with nearly 1,800 franchises in the U.S., Canada, and international locations, SERVPRO is an industry leader in providing fire and water cleanup and restoration services, mold mitigation and remediation.

Masscotte explained that SERVPRO is well equipped to respond promptly to fire or water loss, which are the most common incidents that SERVPRO is called in to help with. The company has all the training, certifications, and expertise to handle restoration and cleaning needs.

Masscotte also explained that SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford has a strong background in fire restoration, including any damages from smoke or soot. Being experts in water restoration goes hand-in-hand with fire restoration because there is often damage done by water while the fire is extinguished.

Having the proper training, IICRC certifications, and equipment to promptly respond to a fire or water disaster makes all the difference.

Masscotte said SERVPRO can handle the entire cleanup effort after disaster strikes. They can properly clean the contents, including dry-cleaning laundry so that the odors don’t linger.

They have the equipment necessary to restore documents that are damaged by fire and water. They also have their own construction team of approximately 10 team members.

In addition to responding to incidents with fire and water damage, SERVPRO gets called in to help with HVAC duct cleaning, biohazard cleaning, and even to work with law 2019 • Volume 4——

enforcement for crime scene cleanups.

“We do a little bit of everything,” Masscotte explained.

“There’s a large agricultural community in our service area.

We can even go in and clean up bat droppings or the like, since that is considered biohazard.”

SERVPRO even has storm teams that respond when dangerous hurricanes, snowstorms, or other large events such as a polar vortex impact a lot of people. The company even responded when a large sewer system backup in Cleveland, Ohio, affected thousands of families.

When a franchise located in an area that has been impacted by a disaster, such as a hurricane or a polar vortex, gets overwhelmed, they will notify the corporate office that it can’t keep up with the current demand for work. DH Storm Team will then mobilize additional franchises and resources to provide crews for additional support. There are four different storm teams, including Storm Team Hughes, named after the Hughes family that operates SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford that responds to incidents from Maine to South Carolina, as well as incidents to points west of the Mid-Atlantic region.

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford also has a Disaster Recovery Team designation, and does large commercial loss restoration work. It’s all part of providing the best possible service to the community.

Masscotte noted that when a person or a company experiences a water loss, fire loss, or some other kind of disaster, it is up to them, the consumer and insurance policyholder, to decide which company handles the restoration work.

“The consumer has the opportunity to choose any restoration company they want,” he explained. For more information about the fire and water damage restoration services, visit www.SERVPROkennettsquareoxford.com.

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford 121 Pennsylvania Ave. Avondale, P A 19311 Phone: 610- 484-576-7015 Email: cmasscotte@servproofkennett.com Fax Number: 610-268-1061 ——For

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

67

Kacie’s Cause Parkesburg Chapter: Working with heart to make a difference in our community

By Jenny Alexander Parkesburg Action Committee

T

he Parkesburg Action Committee works within Parkesburg to revitalize and grow the town. We focus on public events and outreach programs that celebrate all of the wonderful things that our area has to offer.

This issue, we are happy to highlight the Parkesburg Chapter of Kacie’s Cause.

The Kacie’s Cause Parkesburg Chapter was formed in August of 2013 as an extension of Kacie’s Cause, formed by Kacie Erin Rumford’s family after her fatal heroin overdose. The organization was started as a way for the Rumford family to turn Kacie’s tragic death into something that would make a positive impact in the world.

Kacie’s Cause seeks to educate communities about the widespread use of opioids and substance use disorders, and to promote the availability of prevention, education, treatment, recovery and support programs in our community for the individual and their families.

The Parkesburg Chapter was founded by chapter leader, Betsy Gillen. Betsy lost her son, John, to a heroin overdose in 2011, and she felt that working through Kacie’s Cause would be a way to honor his memory and support local families that needed the services and education that Kacie’s Cause offered.

She has found a sense of purpose and meaning through her work with the organization.

“It has become a blessing to us, John’s friends, his extended family, and many local families,” she said. “We have recently begun to realize that we are truly making a difference in the lives of young students and their families.”

The Parkesburg Chapter works in a number of ways throughout our community to educate and extend help to those in need. Betsy and her team run a support group for friends and family members of those with substance use disorders. The support group meetings are held every Wednesday night at The Point Chapel in Parkesburg. Each week is themed to cover different aspects of life with substance use disorders.

This group was formed in September of 2017 and is facilitated by a rotation of three licensed professional counselors.

68

——Spring/Summer

It has become a place where friends and family can come together and share their stories, experiences and lives in a way that helps reduce isolation and offers hope.

Every Mother’s Day, the Parkesburg Chapter hosts a Mother’s Day walk through Parkesburg to honor families and friends affected by the substance use of a loved one. Hundreds of people attend each year, and walk to support the Kacie’s Cause mission and to support those who are affected by this devastating disease. It’s a wonderful way for local families to connect and get to know each other.

They also run support groups for young students affected by the disease of a family member. These groups are held at the Octorara schools, and Kacie’s Cause is thankful to have a wonderful relationship with the school administration, teachers and guidance staff. These groups are a vital step in helping young people learn coping skills and in helping them to express their feelings about living with an addicted parent or family member. The students find the groups to be a safe place to share and be supported.

The Octorara Junior/Senior High School is home to the Girls Run the World girls’ group, headed up by local therapist Tina O’Connor and Frances Propper. This is a mentoring group for female students from 7th through 12th grade that builds self-esteem, self-confidence and self-acceptance.

The group offers the girls opportunities to work on community service projects.

One of their main projects is Kacie’s Kloset. Kacie’s Kloset serves the young ladies of the area by collecting and distributing formal dresses to junior high and high school girls in need. Set up like a high-end boutique, Kacie’s Kloset is run by the girls’ group. Dresses and accessories are donated by the local community. For donations of canned food (given to the Octorara Food Cupboard), Kacie’s Kloset lets young ladies “purchase” formal wear for proms or semi-formal dances. The racks in Kacie’s Kloset are bursting with full beaded gowns, tea-length showstoppers, accessories galore and more.

Once a year, the young ladies of Girls Run the World 2019 • Volume 4——

put on a full fashion show featuring some of the gowns available in the boutique, called the Positive Prom Fashion Show. The show is put on for the students during the school day, and again at night for the community and families of the girls. Generous donations from local florists, hair stylists and makeup artists help to create this night for these ladies! The fashion show features a presentation from Kacie’s Cause and information is made available about all of the services they offer. It’s a fun night out to see some beautiful fashion and to watch the girls shine.

The scope of work that the Kacie’s Cause Parkesburg Chapter does is staggering.

With just a small group of dedicated volunteers, they can be seen at nearly every local event, and in so many helpful and meaningful ways throughout our community.

Their reach is large, but their focus is small – to stop substance use before it starts and offer services, help, understanding and love if the disease has taken hold of you or someone you love.

You can find the Kacie’s Cause chapter near you for safe and secure support. Information can be found at www.kaciescause. com or on Facebook at Kacie’s Cause Parkesburg Chapter.

For more information on Parkesburg events, follow Parkesburg Action Committee on Facebook.

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

• www.chestercounty.com •

P.O. Box 150 • Kelton, PA 19346 ——For

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

69

70

——Spring/Summer

2019 • Volume 4——

Octorara Area Career & Technical Education Programs: Where careers begin

,

I \RXU LGHD RI D JUHDW HGXFDWLRQ H[WHQGV QR IXUWKHU WKDQ ZKDW LV DEVRUEHG LQ D WUDGLWLRQDO FODVVURRP WKHQ VSHQG VRPH WLPH ZLWK VWXGHQWV HQUROOHG LQ WKH 2FWRUDUD $UHD &DUHHU DQG 7HFKQLFDO (GXFDWLRQ 3URJUDP¶V +RPHODQG 6HFXULW\ 3URWHFWLYH 6HUYLFHV $FDGHP\ 7KH\ XQGHUJR ULJRURXV WUDLQLQJ H[HUFLVHV 7KH\ UHFHLYH ¿ UVW KDQG H[SHULHQFH LQ ¿ UH¿ JKWLQJ HPHUJHQF\ PHGLFDO VHUYLFHV YHKLFOH DQG ZDWHU UHVFXH DQG ODZ HQIRUFHPHQW IURP SURIHVVLRQDO ¿ UH¿ JKWHUV DQG HPHUJHQF\ ¿ UVW UHVSRQGHUV 7KH\ FOLPE LQWR (06 DQG ¿ UH¿ JKWLQJ YHKLFOHV DQG SDUWLFLSDWH LQ UHDO OLIH VLWXDWLRQV ,Q SDUWQHUVKLS ZLWK WKH &KHVWHU &RXQW\ 3XEOLF 6DIHW\ 7UDLQLQJ &DPSXV WKH $FDGHP\ SUHSDUHV VWXGHQWV WR DSSO\ WHFKQLFDO NQRZOHGJH DQG VNLOOV UHTXLUHG WR SHUIRUP HQWU\ OHYHO GXWLHV LQ ODZ HQIRUFHPHQW ¿ UH¿ JKWLQJ HPHUJHQF\ PHGLFDO VHUYLFHV DQG RWKHU VDIHW\ VHUYLFHV 7KLV SURJUDP VWUHVVHV WKH WHFKQLTXHV PHWKRGV DQG SURFHGXUHV VSHFL¿ F WR WKH DUHDV RI FULPLQDO MXVWLFH ¿ UH SURWHFWLRQ DQG HPHUJHQF\ PHGLFDO VHUYLFHV HVSHFLDOO\ LQ HPHUJHQF\ DQG GLVDVWHU VLWXDWLRQV ,Q DGGLWLRQ VWXGHQWV UHFHLYH WUDLQLQJ LQ VRFLDO DQG SV\FKRORJLFDO VNLOOV YHKLFOH DQG HTXLSPHQW RSHUDWLRQV WKH MXGLFLDO V\VWHP SUH KRVSLWDO HPHUJHQF\ PHGLFDO FDUH DQG DSSURSULDWH HPHUJHQF\ DVVHVVPHQW WUHDWPHQW DQG FRPPXQLFDWLRQ ³,W¶V DQ XQEHOLHYDEOH RSSRUWXQLW\ IRU RXU VWXGHQWV ´ VDLG /LVD 0F1DPDUD WKH 2FWRUDUD $UHD &DUHHU DQG 7HFKQLFDO (GXFDWLRQ DGPLQLVWUDWRU ³7KH\¶UH JLYLQJ EDFN WR WKHLU FRPPXQLW\ LPPHGLDWHO\ 7KH\ KDYH DFFHVV WR HYHU\ LQGXVWU\ ZKR FRPHV WKHUH )LUH¿ JKWHUV FDQLQH XQLWV )%, XQLWV DQG FULPLQDO MXVWLFH XQLWV 7KH GDLO\ H[SRVXUH WR OLIH PHQWRUV WKDW WKLV SURJUDP JLYHV VWXGHQWV LV DPD]LQJ ³7KH NH\ EHQH¿ W LV WKDW WKH\ ZLOO JUDGXDWH IURP WKH SURJUDP ZLWK RYHU LQGXVWU\ FUHGHQWLDOV DQG LI WKH\ FKRRVH WR JR WR D WZR \HDU RU IRXU \HDU FROOHJH WKH FUHGHQWLDOV PD\ FRQYHUW WR FROOHJH FUHGLWV DQG TXDOLI\ WKHP IRU IUHH FROOHJH KRXVLQJ DQG WXLWLRQ ´ 7KH $FDGHP\ LV MXVW RQH RI HOHFWLYHV LQ WKH 2FWRUDUD $UHD &DUHHU DQG 7HFKQLFDO (GXFDWLRQ 3URJUDP HDFK GHVLJQHG WR SURYLGH KDQGV RQ H[SHULHQFH DQG GHYHORS SUDFWLFDO VNLOOV WKDW SUHSDUH VWXGHQWV IRU FDUHHUV LQ $FFRXQWLQJ $QLPDO DQG 3ODQW 6FLHQFH %XVLQHVV 0DUNHWLQJ &KLOG &DUH (GXFDWLRQ &XOLQDU\ $UWV (QJLQHHULQJ DQG 'UDIWLQJ 7HFKQRORJ\ +RPHODQG 6HFXULW\ 3URWHFWLYH 6HUYLFHV $FDGHP\

*UDSKLF 'HVLJQ DQG ,OOXVWUDWLRQ 0HFKDQLFDO 6\VWHPV 7HFKQRORJ\ :RRGZRUNLQJ 7HFKQRORJ\ DQG 'LYHUVL¿ HG 2FFXSDWLRQV (DFK SURJUDP LQWURGXFHV VWXGHQWV WR UHSUHVHQWDWLYHV IURP VRPH RI WKH ODUJHVW LQGXVWULHV LQ &KHVWHU &RXQW\ DQG EH\RQG ZKR SDUWQHU ZLWK WKH 2FWRUDUD $UHD 6FKRRO 'LVWULFW 'DQVNR 'XWFKODQG ,QFRUSRUDWHG $HUH]RQ 86$ /DQG 2¶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൵ DQG LQ KH MRLQHG WKH 3HQQV\OYDQLD 6WDWH 3ROLFH ZKHUH KH VHUYHG DV D SDWURO R൶ FHU D FULPLQDO LQYHVWLJDWRU DQG ODWHU DV WKH GLUHFWRU RI WKH SROLFH¶V ,QWHOOLJHQFH 'LYLVLRQ ³7UR\ KDV DQ H[WHQVLYH NQRZOHGJH RI WKH FULPLQDO MXVWLFH V\VWHP DQG ODZ HQIRUFHPHQW DQG ZH¶UH H[FLWHG WR KDYH KLP RQ WKH $FDGHP\¶V WHDP ´ 0F1DPDUD VDLG 3ODFLQJ VWXGHQWV GLUHFWO\ ZLWK H[SHULHQFHG SURIHVVLRQDOV VHUYHV DV D UHFUXLWPHQW WRRO IRU SRWHQWLDO HPSOR\HUV 0F1DPDUD VDLG ³:H KDYH EHJXQ WR VHH D JURZLQJ JDS WKDW VHSDUDWHV HGXFDWLRQ IURP WKH SUDFWLFDO DQG WHFKQLFDO VNLOO VHWV WKDW HPSOR\HUV ZDQW WR VHH DQG RXU SURJUDPV ¿ OO WKDW JDS ´ VKH VDLG ³(GXFDWLRQDO V\VWHPV KDYH WR UHDFK RXW WR LQGXVWULHV DQG DVN WKHP µ:KDW GR \RX ZDQW DQG ZKDW GR \RX QHHG"¶ 7KH\¶UH WHOOLQJ XV µ:H QHHG WUDLQHG DQG IRFXVHG VNLOOV LQ RXU LQGXVWU\ ¶ ³7KH 2FWRUDUD 6FKRRO 'LVWULFW EHOLHYHV LQ PD[LPL]LQJ RSSRUWXQLWLHV IRU VXFFHVV DQG WKHVH RSSRUWXQLWLHV SURYLGH WKDW ´ 7R OHDUQ PRUH DERXW DOO 2FWRUDUD $UHD &DUHHU 7HFKQLFDO (GXFDWLRQ 3URJUDP RSSRUWXQLWLHV YLVLW ZZZ RFWRUDUD N SD XV RU FRQWDFW /LVD 0F1DPDUD DW

Meet Our Member:

Coatesville Savings Bank celebrating 100 years For the past century, Coatesville Savings Bank has been a keystone of the City of Coatesville, and today, the statechartered, FDIC-insured, independent, mutual savings bank is a major player in the city’s rebirth.

The bank’s roots go back to 1919, when 15 men with the pooled resources of about $200 met in the back of the Coatesville Trust Company at Third Avenue and Lincoln Highway in Coatesville. They united under the name of the Industrial Building and Loan Association and offered a chance at home ownership to families who could not otherwise afford it.

Through the years the name and structure of the bank have changed, but never its commitment to the communities it serves. And while the bank may be 100-years-old, its products and services include all the best that modern technology

can offer. In 2000 the bank began offering internet banking, and it has made significant investments in technology ever since. That commitment to technology extends to this day with automated teller machines, debit cards, mobile banking, bill payment services, remote deposit capture services, and ACH and direct deposit processing options. These technologies help the bank reach and serve its customers and communities without the need to maintain an extensive branch network.

These services complement a complete array of deposit and loan products designed for both consumers and businesses.

Once known primarily for residential mortgage loans, the bank now partners with business borrowers of all sizes to assist in their acquisitions, expansions and working capital planning.

For deposits, the bank offers all the traditional types of checking, savings, and certificate accounts in addition to money

First site of Coatesville Federal — then called Industrial Building and Loan — met at Coatesville Trust Building.

The Rescue Mission also met here in 1914.

72

——Spring/Summer

2019 • Volume 4——

market and high-rate rewards checking products. As part of its effort to fully serve the financial needs of the communities it serves, the bank offers a special program for first-time homebuyers, and beginning in April will offer a similar program for qualifying new and/or expanding businesses.

Two of Coatesville Savings Bank’s greatest assets are its community bank structure and traditions. Loan decisions can be made quickly because they are all made locally. Decision-makers take the time to look beyond formal applications and get to know their customers in order to ensure they are offered the right product and given every opportunity to qualify for it.

Lenders Steve Cunningham (Coatesville) and Lana Neff (New Holland) grew-up in the communities they now serve, while Deb Casagrande (Georgetown) is only a few miles from her Chester County routes. All take pride in serving their neighbors.

Throughout its history, the bank has always valued community involvement as a key to its success. Board members Joye Wentz, Tom Greenfield, John Pinno, Larry Constable, Spence Andress and Chet Woolard are all current or retired business owners in the bank’s market area, while board chairman Joe Carroll was a career prosecutor who served as District Attorney of Chester County. Each of them is committed as much to the communities the bank serves as to the bank itself.

Through the years, the bank has provided both financial support and volunteer involvement to many community and charitable organizations and events, including Art Partners Studio, the Strawberry Festival, Bridge of Hope Chester and Lancaster (now Good Samaritan Services), the Coatesville Christmas Parade, Habitat for Humanity, the Western Chester County Chamber of Commerce, the Coatesville Library, CrossNet Ministries, Bart Township Alumni, Birth Care & Family Health Services, Solanco Fair, Lighthouse Youth Center, and other school and church organizations and fire companies committed to strengthening and caring for communities.

As the bank marks its 100th year throughout 2019, there will be celebrations at each of the offices. The Coatesville Office ribbon cutting will be held on Friday, March 22nd. This will be followed by a community day event on Saturday, May 18th.

Ribbon cuttings and community day events are scheduled at each of the bank’s offices in New Holland, Oxford, Georgetown, and Quarryville over the summer months.

The complete schedule of events will be posted at www.coatesvillesavings.com.

——For

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

73

74

——Spring/Summer

2019 • Volume 4——

CHAMBER MEMBER DIRECTORY Accounting Services APA Tax Accountants Inc. Albert Abdala apatax.com (610) 384-6425 CBIZ Employee Services Organization Donna McCorkle cbiz.com (484) 667-6652

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

MacElree Harvey, Ltd. Michael Louis, Esq. macelree.com (610) 436-0100

Apartments and Townhomes

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

Fairways Apartments & Townhomes Kristin Undercuffler fmgnj.com (610) 383-0690

Ginas InterNet Advising Gina Rodkey GinasInterNetAdvising.com (484) 712-5959 Paisley Solutions Paula Paisley paisleysolutions.com (610) 444-2597

Millview Apartment Homes Bryan Eidel millviewapts.com (610) 466-7800 Architecture Art & Architecture Susan Salvo fb.com/susansalvoarchitect (484) 880-8023

Quinn, M Cynthia, CPA Cynthia Quinn mcq1040.com (610) 380-1040 See ad pg. 69

Ronald David Osborne Architect Ronald Osborne (610) 384-3133 Attorneys

The Small Business Accounting Solution Inc Nicole Odeh TSBAS.com (844) 208-2937

Carosella & Associates, PC Vincent Carosella, Esq. carosella.com (610) 431-3300

Administrative Services Brandywine Business Systems Sam Slokom (610) 563-1487 Agriculture Chester County Agricultural Development Council Hillary Krummrich chesco.org/141/ Agricultural-Development-Council (610) 344-6285 Chester/Delaware County Farm Bureau Dan Miller pfb.com (717) 529-2508 Cairns Family Farm Don Cairns Highspire Hills Farm, LLC Deborah Ellis localharvest.org/highspire-hills-farmllc-M6683 (610) 942-9634 Romano 4-H Center Don Cairns facebook.com/theromano4hcenterofchestercounty (610) 942-0220

Gawthrop Greenwood, PC Anthony Verwey, Esq. gawthrop.com (610) 696-8225 See ad pg. 30 Keen, Keen & Good William Keen, Esq. KKGLawFirm.com (610) 383-7810 Lamb McErlane PC Helen Esbenshade, Esq. lambmcerlane.com (610) 430-8000 Law Firm of Barry S. Rabin Barry S. Rabin, Esq. BarryRabinLaw.com (610) 873-1600 Law Office of August J. Ober A.J. Ober, Esq. Oberlegal.com (215) 779-3433 Law Office of Jayne Garver Jayne Garver, Esq. jgarverlaw.com (484) 784-5372 Law Office of Robin J. Gray Robin Gray, Esq. robinjgraylaw.com (484)-769-5855

Siana, Bellwoar & McAndrew LLP Chris Gerber, Esq. sianalaw.com (610) 321-5500 Unruh, Turner, Burke & Frees, P.C. Theodore Claypoole, Esq. utbf.com (610) 692-1371

First Resource Bank Fran Forte firstresourcebank.com (610) 363-9400 See ad pg. 14 Fulton Bank | Parkesburg Carolyn Blackburn fultonbank.com (610) 857-5005 Fulton Bank | Guthriesville Patricia Savino fultonbank.com (610) 873-4740 Key Bank | Thorndale Susan Hernandez key.com (610) 873-9600

Wusinich & Brogan, P.C. Peter F.X. Callahan, Esq. wusinichbrogan.com (610) 594-1600

Key Bank | Coatesville Tamera Hrynkow key.com (610) 269-9701

Automobile Sales and Service

M&T Bank Jennifer Simmet mtb.com (610) 273-7022

Brian Hoskins Ford Ed Kovatch brianhoskinsford.com (610) 384-4242

Meridian Bank Geoffrey Sheehan meridianbanker.com (484) 568-5026

Extra Mile Auto Service George Devine extramileauto.com (610) 384-2864 Fling’s Towing, Inc. Daryl Fling flingstowing.com (610) 383-6362 See ad pg. 43 Salvo Brothers Motorcars Ari Salvo salvobrothersauto.com (610) 384-1352 See ad pg. 70 Banks Bryn Mawr Trust Company Andrew Stump bmtc.com (610) 430-6158 Coatesville Savings Bank Steve Cunningham coatesvillesavings.com (610) 384-8282 See ad pg. 47 DNB First Jennifer Randisi dnbfirst.com (484) 691-3621

Mid Penn Bank Mike Guyer midpennbank.com (717) 690-3985 See ad pg. 33 Phoenixville Federal Bank & Trust Steve Pratt PhoenixFed.com (610) 933-1000 Union Community Bank Nathan Edmunds unioncommunitybank.com/businessbanking/ (267) 565-9768 Woodforest National Bank Janell Morales woodforest.com (610) 857-0723 Banquet Facility Coatesville Moose Lodge/1910 Ballroom Jeff Ellis coatesvillemooselodge.com (610) 857-8227

Continued on next page ——For

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

75

Directory Continued from previous page

Wagontown Banquet Hall Bridget Ziegler wagontownfire.com (610) 384-1015 Building Contractors, Construction D. Howe & Sons, Inc. Douglas Howe dhoweandsons.com (610) 942-4249 FBSG Inc. Cindy Gallo fbsginc.com (610) 633-8824

Transfers of Learning Tasha Delaney transfersoflearning.com (610) 466-7521 See ad pg. 41 Caterers Harry’s The Neighborhood Place John H. Lymberis HarrysHotdogs.com (610) 857-2331x See ad pg. 32 John Serock Catering John Serock serockcatering.com (610) 640-2836 Triple Fresh Catering Jim Petro triplefresh.net (610) 384-5037

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

Chambers of Commerce

McComsey Builders Inc. Robert McComsey mcComseyBuilders.com (610) 476-5911

PA Chamber of Business & Industry Alex Halper pachamber.org (717) 720-5471

Provident Homes Corporation Matt Bedwell providenthomes.com (610) 692-7697

Western Chester County Chamber of Commerce Donna Steltz westernchestercounty.com (610) 384-9550 See ad pg. 63

Rittenhouse Builders George Metzler rittenhousebuilders.com (610) 380-9570 Simmers Builders Inc Lloyd Simmers simmersbuilders.com (610) 383-5562 Veteran Construction and Utility Services, Inc Sue Durborow veterancus.com (610) 384-8235

Chamberlain Chiropractic Dr. Jeffrey Chamberlain chamberlainchiropractic.com (610) 429-4920

Building Supplies Graber Supply, LLC David Blank polebarn.com (610) 593-3500 Business Management, Consulting, Training

76

Chiropractors Agape Institute of Functional Healthcare Michelle Conicello wherehopelives.info (484) 593-0882

Churches Our Lady of Consolation Mary Wishneski olcchurch.org (610) 857-3510 Cleaning Services, Commercial and Residential

SCORE Vic Goldberg chestercounty.score.org (610) 344-6910

Clarel Janitorial/Maintenance Services Corp.

Claudia Muntean clarelmaintenance.com/ (484) 378-0827

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

Rainbow Washhouse Steve Dovidio (610) 637-7636

——Spring/Summer

Commercial Flooring Sales and Installation Precision Flooring Enterprises LLC Marilyn Costalas precisionflooringllc.com (610) 857-3519 Top Knotch Flooring Mike Smondrowski topnotchflooring.com (610) 857-1131 Communication Services Verizon Wireless Akilah Sanders (484) 378-7979 Community Services Angel Grapevine Joan Allen AngelGrapevine.com (774) 272-1914 Boy Scouts of America Chester County Council Jefferey Spencer cccbsa.org (610) 696-2900 Brandywine Conservancy & Museum of Art Shelia Fleming brandywine.org/conservancy (610) 388-8389 See ad pg. 46 Brandywine Health Foundation Jill Whitcomb brandywinefoundation.org (610) 380-9080 See ad pg. 58 Brandywine Regeneration Project Bob Holliday (610) 717-2265 Bridge Academy and Community Center Jordan Crans thebridgeacademy.org (610) 466-9505 Caln Athletic Association Steve Santillo calnaa.com (484) 378-0470 See ad pg. 61 Chester County Food Bank Anne Shuniak chestercountyfoodbank.org (610) 873-6000 Chester County Association for the Blind Robert Milliken chescoblind.org (610) 384-2767

2019 • Volume 4——

Chester County OIC Taj Brown (610) 692-2345 www.ccoic.org See ad pg. 18 Coatesville 2nd Century Alliance Sonia Huntzinger 2ndCenturyAlliance.org (484) 786-8896 Coatesville Youth Initiative Chaya Scott coatesvilleyouthinitiative.org (610) 380-0200 Crime Victims’ Center of Chester County Christine Zaccarelli cvcofcc.org (610) 388-1218x212 Good Samaritan Services Cheryl Miles goodsamshelter.org/phoenixville (610) 933-9305 Greater Deliverance Development Outreach Stephanie Duncan greaterdeliverancechurch.org (484) 886-6413 Habitat For Humanity of Chester County Charles L. Huston IV hfhcc.org (610) 384-7993 Honey Brook Area Community Partnership Donna Horvath hbpartnership.org (610) 990-5670 Life Transforming Ministries Bill Shaw quietrevolution.org (610) 384-5393 PABA Parkesburg Business Association Allan Fellman paba-pa.org (610) 857-5114 Parkesburg Action Committee Jenny Alexander facebook.com/PAC19365/ (610) 425-1148 Rotary Club of Coatesville Michael Givler facebook.com/rotaryclubofcoatesville/ (610) 384-9196 Salvation Army - Service Extension Cindy Yearsley (610) 383-0868 Stewart Huston Charitable Trust Scott Huston stewarthuston.org (610) 384-2666

The Huston Foundation Charles Lukens Huston III hustonfoundation.org (610) 832-4955

Provident Homes Corporation Matt Bedwell providenthomes.com (610) 692-7697

The Parkesburg POINT Debbie Shupp parkesburgpoint.com (610) 857-3393 See ad pg. 46

Rittenhouse Builders George Metzler rittenhousebuilders.com (610) 380-9570 Veteran Construction and Utility Services, Inc Sue Durborow veterancus.com (610) 384-8235

United Way of Chester County Chris Saello unitedwaychestercounty.org (610) 429-9400 See ad pg. 15

Credit Unions

Computer Services

Citadel | South Coatesville Ian Spangler citadelbanking.com (610) 380-6003

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

Citadel | Eagleview Corporate Office Doug Thompson citadelbanking.com (610) 466-6412

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

Citadel | Parkesburg Jackie Garress citadelbanking.com (610) 466-6634

Lownes Computer Service Greg Lownes lownes.net (610) 383-0657

Citadel | Thorndale Gwen Smoker citadelbanking.com (610) 466-6649

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

Dentists

Construction

Rainbow Valley Dental Stephanie McGann, DMD rainbowvalleydental.com (610) 383-4747

Christiana Cabinetry Rich Dempsey christianacabinetry.com (610) 593-7500

Developer

City Construction Co. Inc. Dennis Fallon cityconstructionco.com (610) 269-9530

First Eastern Development Company, LLC John Newton (610) 842-8224

D. Howe & Sons, Inc. Douglas Howe dhoweandsons.com (610) 942-4249

New Heritage Properties, LLC Crosby Wood newheritageproperties.com (610) 383-9800

FBSG Inc. Cindy Gallo fbsginc.com (610) 633-8824

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

Fidelty Contracting Richard Burkholder fidelitycontracting.com (610) 816-0704

Education Chester County 2020 William Stevens CC2020.org (484) 680-5570

Keystone Valley Regional Fire District Raymond Stackhouse kvfd8.com (484) 571-9686

Chester County Technical College High School Beth Myers tchsbrandywine.org (484) 593-5100

Keystone Valley Fire Department Krystine Sipple kvfd8.com (610) 857-3232

Coatesville Area School District Dr. Cathy Taschner casdschools.org/Domain/4 (610) 466-2400 Delaware County Community College Ruth Bennett dccc.edu (610) 359-5131 Harcum College Evelyn Santana harcum.edu (610) 525-4100 Octorara Area School District Lisa McNamara octorara.k12.pa.us/ (610) 593-8238 See ad pg. 71 Pope John Paul II Regional Catholic Elementary School Maria Samson popejohnpaul2sch.org (610) 384-5961 Electrical Contractors Bill Mullen Electric LLC Bill Mullen Billmullenelectric.net (484) 716-1177 Billows Electric Supply Company Bob Weiss billows.com (610) 269-1493

Econonic Development Organization Chester County Economic Development Council Jack London ccedcpa.com (610) 321-8227

G.A. Vietri, Inc. Greg Vietri gavietri.com (610) 857-1110 See ad pg. 49

Coatesville 2nd Century Alliance Sonia Huntzinger 2ndcenturyalliance.org (610) 786-8896

Rumsey Electric Patrick Melvin rumsey.com (610) 832-9000

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

Emergency Services

Chester County Intermediate Unit Kristina Goodwin conferencecenter.cciu.org (484) 237-5153 See ad pg. 5

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

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

William S. Malany & Sons, Inc. Chad Lease malanyelectric.com (610) 436-4023

Employment and Training Service KenCrest Services-Employment Allison Smale kencrest.org (610) 825-9360 Energy Management Service Electric Advisors Consulting, LLC Frank Lacey electricadvisorsconsulting.com (610) 793-2809 Kauffman Gas Inc. Ken Kauffman kauffmangas.com (610) 593-5063 Rhoads Energy Corp/Zeke’s Oil Company Michael DeBerdine rhoadsenergy.com (610) 857-1650 See ad pg. 21 Tobelmann Energy Brokers, Inc. John Tobelmann tobelmann.net (610) 639-1406 Engineer Consultants Advanced GeoServices Corp.

Bernie Beegle advancedgeoservices.com (610) 840-9100 Edward B. Walsh & Associates, Inc. Theodore Gacomis ebwalshinc.com (610) 903-0060 See ad pg. 17 Hydraterra Professionals Joe Boldaz hydraterrapro.com (610) 942-3000 Inland Design, LLC Chuck Dobson inlanddesign.net (484) 947-2928

Continued on next page ——For

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

77

Directory Continued from previous page

McMahon Associates, Inc Natasha Manbeck mcmahonassociates.com (610) 594-9995 Traffic Planning and Design, Inc Randy Waltermyer trafficpd.com (610) 326-3100 Entertaintment and Recreation Air Ventures Balloon Flights,Inc Deb Harding air-ventures.com (610) 827-2138 Moore Music Pam Moore mooremusicdjs.com (610) 269-6990 The Golf Zone George McNamara golfzoneproshop.com (610) 942-9494 The Lukens Band Mike Givler lukensband.org (610) 383-4197 Environmental Consultants Coventry Environmental, Inc. Steven Ohrwaschel covenv.com/ (484) 639-4578 Envera Michael Matheny envera.com (484) 593-4002 Sovereign Environmental Group Larry Johnson sovereignenvironmental.com (610) 383-9919 Financial Services Beacon Financial Group, LLC Cathy Jackson CAJ-BeaconFinancial.com (484) 844-7824 Penn Rise Advisors Karl Klingmann II pennriseadvisors.com (610) 269-8363 See ad pg. 40 Fire Water and Damage Clean-up SERVPRO of Central Chester County Dave Lyman servprocentralchestercounty.com (610) 524-0211

78

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford Cliff Masscotte Servprokennettsquareoxford.com (610) 268-8620 See ad pg. 41

White Willows Memorial Design Fay Monte whitewillowsmemorials.com (717) 442-9001 See ad pg. 17

Fitness Training and Sports Centers

Furniture

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

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

YMCA of Greater Brandywine, Brandywine Branch LaKeisha Harris ymcagbw.org (610) 380-9622 See ad pg. 58 YMCA of Greater Brandywine, Brandywine Association Offices Linda Miron ymcagbw.org (610) 643-9622 Ext. 2116 Florists Blue Moon Florists Ami Trost (610) 873-7900 bluemoonflorist.com See ad pg. 67 Coatesville Flower Shop Greg DePedro coatesvilleflowershop.net (610) 384-2677 Food and Beverage Christiana Beer & Beverage Mike Peace christianabeer.com (610) 593-5887 See ad pg. 43 Crop’s Fresh Marketplace Chad Cropper cropsmarketplace.com (484) 593-2665 Lamb Beverage Inc. Michael McGinley lambbeverage.com (610) 384-1470 Funeral Home and Services Harris Mountain Funeral Home & Cremation Service Kevin Mountain harrismountain.com (610) 384-1091 James J. Terry Funeral Home Greg Froio jamesterryfuneralhome.com (484) 378-7210

——Spring/Summer

Golf Courses Coatesville Country Club Chris Walton coatesvillecountryclub.com (610) 384-3200 See ad pg. 83 Honeybrook Golf Club/ Greenside Grill Donna Horvath honeybrookgolf.com (610) 273-0207 Ingleside Golf Chris Ward golfingleside.com (610) 384-9128 Moccasin Run Golf Club/ Shotgun Pub & Grille Curtis King moccasinrun.com (610) 593-2600

Borough of South Coatesville Stephanie Duncan south-coatesville.org (610) 384-1700 Caln Township Kristen Denne calntownship.org (610) 384-0600 Christiana Borough Carol Pringle christianaboro.com (610) 593-5199 City of Coatesville Michael Trio coatesville.org (610) 384-0300 East Brandywine Township Scott Piersol ebrandywine.org (610) 269-8230 East Fallowfield Township Pani Martin eastfallowfield.org (610) 384-7144 East Nantmeal Kathy Brumfield eastnantmeal.com (610) 458-5780

Government County

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

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

Highland Township Bo Alexander highlandtwp1853.org (610) 857-1791

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

Honey Brook Borough Janis Rambo honeybrookborough.net (610) 273-2020

Chester County DES - Public Safety Training Campus John Gillespie chesco.org/des (610) 344-4100 Chester County Planning Commission Brian O’Leary chesco.org (610) 344-6285 Chester County Recorder of Deeds Rick Loughery chesco.org (610) 344-6330

Honey Brook Township Kristy Deischer-Eddy honeybrooktwp.com (610) 273-3970 Modena Borough Mary Ellen Steganius modenaborough.com (610) 384-6777 Parkesburg Borough Neil Vaughn parkesburg.org (610) 857-2616

Government Municipal

Sadsbury Township Tammy Russell sadsburytwp.org (610) 857-9503

Atglen Borough Caren Andrews atglen.org (610) 593-6854

Valley Township Carol Lewis valleytownship.org (610) 384-5751

2019 • Volume 4——

Wallace Township Betty Randzin wallacetwp.org (610) 942-2880

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

West Bradford Township Justin Yaich westbradford.org (610) 269-4174

State Representative Danielle Otten 155th District repotten.com (717) 783-5009

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

State Representative Christina Sappey 158th District repsappey.com (717) 772-9973

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

State Representative Dan Williams 74th District repwilliams.com U.S. Congresswoman Chrissy Houlahan 6th District houlahan.house.gov (202) 225-4315

West Fallowfield Township Gina Wheeler westfallowfieldtownship.org (610) 593-5916 West Nantmeal Township Deborah (Debi) Kolpak westnantmeal.com (610) 286-9722

U.S. Senator Bob Casey, Jr. casey.senate.gov (215) 405-9660 U.S. Senator Patrick Toomey toomey.sentate.gov (215)241-1090

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

Graphic Design & Marketing

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

Blue Dog Printing Debi Friedmann getbluedog.com (610) 430-7992 deSignZ Sondra Zalewski designzstudio.com (610) 687-5736

Government Elected Officials Chester County Commissioner Kathi Cozzone chesco.org (610) 344-6199 Chester County Commissioner Terence Farrell chesco.org (610) 344-6151

Hyland Graphic Design & Advertising Matthew Weiss hylandgraphics.com (484) 879-6145 Link Promos Megan Lamkin linkpromos.com (717) 543-3767 See ad pg. 59

Chester County Commissioner Michelle Kichline chesco.org (610) 344-6031 State Senator Andrew E. Dinniman 19th District senatordinniman.com (610) 692-2112 State Senator Katie J. Muth| District 44 44th District senatormuth.com (717) 787-1398

Surefire Graphics & Marketing Vincent Zambuto Surefiregraphics.com (484) 378-4033 Hardware Stores, Industrial Supplies

State Representative Tim Hennessey 76th District rephennessey.com (610) 326-2626

Hatt’s Industrial Supplies & True Value Chip Clavier (610) 384-1954 www.hatts.com See ad pg. 18

Health and Wellness

Historical Society

Agape Institue of Functional Healthcare Michelle Conicello wherehopelives.com (484) 593-0882

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

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

Home Improvements

Fountain Springs Wellness Spa Raeleen Mills fswspa.com (610) 466-5141

Budget Blinds of Coatesville Germaine Schumann budgetblinds.com/Coatesville/ (610) 643-4929 Cellarium Wine Cellars Don Cochran cellarium.com (610) 721-9698

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

Christiana Cabinetry Rich Dempsey christianacabinetry.com (610) 593-7500

Healthcare Providers and Services Brandywine Hospital Tower Health Mark Reyngoudt towerhealth.org (610) 383-8000 See ad pg. 40 ChesPenn Health Services, Inc. Michael Lucas chespenn.org (610) 383-3888 Lancaster General Health Debra Wertz LancasterGeneralHealth.org (610) 857-6639 See ad pg. 2 Heating and Air Conditioning Darryl N. Barber Plumbing & Heating Inc. Darryl Barber darrylbarberandsons.com (610) 273-2369 Joe Ward Plumbing & Heating, Inc. Joe Ward (610) 593-6474 MACK Services Group Heating & Cooling Eric Jameson mackservicesgroup.com (610) 857-5525 Rhoads Energy Corp.

Amy Stackhouse rhoadsenergy.com (610) 857-1650 See ad pg. 21 Summers & Zims Joseph Zimmerman sumzim.com (610) 593-5129

Fidelity Contracting LLC Richard Burkholder fidelitycontracting.com (610) 816-0704 Five Point Renovation and Remodel Rob Wishneski fivepointconstruction.com (484) 888-8276 Good Works Inc. Robert Beggs goodworksinc.org (610) 383-6311 Milanese Remodeling Mark Milanese milaneseremodeling.com (610) 384-5820 See ad pg. 4 Tony Buck Home Improvement Tony Buck tonybuck.com (610) 384-7863 Top Notch Flooring, LLC Mike Smondrowski topnotchflooring.com (610) 857-1131 Home Inspections Ground Up Home Inspections Kevin Kerr grounduphomeinspections.com (610) 324-3064 See ad pg. 61 Hotel Courtyard Marriott Coatesville Cory Amman courtyardcoatesville.com (610) 380-8700

Continued on next page ——For

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

79

Directory Continued from previous page

Human Resource Consultant CBIZ Human Capital Management Donna McCorkle cbiz.com (484) 667-6652 Human Services Crime Victims’ Center of Chester County, Inc. Christine Zaccarelli cvcofcc.org (610) 388-1218 x212 Greater Deliverance Development Outreach Stephanie Duncan greaterdeliverancechurch.org (484) 886-6413 Industrial Engineered Graphic System Uticom Systems, Inc. Paul Keeler uticom.net (610) 857-2655 Insurance Beaver Insurance Agency Larry Beaver allstate.com/larrybeaver (484) 356-6455

The Wright Agency Jonathan Wright wrightagencyinsurance.com (610) 269-6115 See ad pg. 84 US Health Advisors Harry Lilley ushagent.com/HARRYLILLEY (484) 554-4989 VanDyne Insurance Agency Donna VanDyne vandyneinsurance.com (717) 430-2798 Vigorita Insurance Agency Candy Vigorita (610) 285-7560 Whitford Insurance Network, Inc. Bob Ward whitfordinsurance.com (610) 524-7860 Insurance and Real Estate C. Kenneth Grant Insurance & Real Estate Barry Norton grantinsuranceandrealestate.com (610) 384-6260 Landscaping

Breuninger Insurance Chip Breuninger binsured.com (610) 384-1980 See ad pg. 12

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

C. Kenneth Grant Insurance & Real Estate Barry Norton grantinsuranceandrealestate.com (610) 384-6260

The Tree Connection Ryan Sipple treeconnection.us/ (484) 888-5360 See ad pg. 60

DiMatteo Insurance Al DiMatteo dimatteoinsuranceinc.com (610) 383-1114

Libraries

EMB Specialty, LLC Erik Brecht embspecialty.com (610) 857-4759 Harvey Insurance Agency George Scherbak harveyinsgroup.com (610) 692-0953 Knies Insurance Group Greg Knies keytoinsurance.com (610) 273-3756 See ad pg. 73

80

Roehrs, Stanton, Willimann & Associates, LLC Penny Reeder rswinsurance.com (610) 383-3884

Atglen Library Robbyn Kehoe ccls.org/158/Atglen-Public-Library (610) 593-6848 Coatesville Area Public Library Penny Williams coatesvilleareapubliclibrary.org/ (610) 384-4115 Honey Brook Library Jennifer Spade ccls.org/171/Honey-BrookCommunity-Library (610) 273-3303 Parkesburg Library Kathleen Hood parkesburglibrary.org/ (610) 857-5165 ——Spring/Summer

Management Consultants Transfers of Learning, LLC Tasha Delaney transfersoflearning.com (610) 466-7521 See ad pg. 41 Manufacturing Aerzen USA Corporation Keith Rolfe aerzenusa.com 610-380-0244 ArcelorMittal Edward Frey arcelormittal.com (610) 383-2000 Armstrong Engineering Associates, Inc. Robin Austin Armstrong-chemtec.com (610) 436-6080 Brandywine Valley Fabricators Josh Crane brandywinevalleyfab.com (610) 384-7440 See ad pg. 20

Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation Chuck DiLabbio lockheedmartin.com/en-us/capabilities/sikorsky.html (610) 644-4430 See ad pg. 30 Marketing and Public Relations Communication Works Now Judith Lee communicationworksnow.com (610) 368-2058 Link Promos Megan Lamkin linkpromos.com (717) 543-3767 See ad pg. 59 Media and Publishing Chester County Press Randall Lieberman chestercounty.com (610) 869-5553 Coatesville.Today Ken Knickerbocker coatesville.today (610) 256-9571

Cigas Machine Shop, Inc. Craig Cigas cigasmachine.com 610-384-5239

Daily Local News Donna Rovins dailylocalnews.com (610) 696-1775

David Aquadro David Aquadro marvin.com (610) 593-7250

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

Image Fillers, Inc. Mike Kelly imagefillers.com/ (610) 466-1440

Memorials and Monuments

John Rock Inc. Bill MacCauley johnrock.com (610) 857-8080 Keystone Turbine Services, LLC Jacqui Cornog kts-aero.com (610) 268-6200 Pacer Industries, Inc. Joseph Moran pacergrindingwheels.com (610) 383-4200 Paulsonbilt Pamela Barranco paulsonbilt.com (610) 384-6112 Pelet Welding Inc. Timothy Pelet peletwelding.com (610) 384-5048

2019 • Volume 4——

White Willows Memorial Design Fay Monte whitewillowsmemorials.com (717) 442-9001 See ad pg. 17 Metal Fabrication American Roll Suppliers, Inc. Karen Neuhauser (610) 857-2988 Brandywine Valley Fabricators Josh Crane brandywinevalleyfab.com (610) 384-7440 See ad pg. 20 Mortgage and Financial Services Bank of America Louella Gray, NMLS # 72794 bankofamerica.com (215) 292-9616 Fulton Mortgage Company Denise Rodriguez fultonbank.com (610) 857-5005

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

Payroll Services

PrimeLending Houston Baker LO.primelending.com/houston.baker (610) 306-7929 Museums Brandywine Conservancy and Museum of Art Shelia Fleming brandywine.org/conservancy (610) 388-8317 See ad pg. 46 National Iron & Steel Heritage Museum/Graystone Society Jim Ziegler steelmuseum.org (610) 384-9282 Music, DJ Services Moore Music Pam Moore mooremusicdjs.com (610) 269-6990

CBIZ, Inc. Donna McCorkle cbiz.com (610) 844-2400 The Small Business Accounting Solution Nicole Odeh TSBAS.com (610) 203-9682 Pharmacies Honey Brook Pharmacy Tony Scalies honeybrookpharmacy.com (610) 273-7300 Hopewell Road Pharmacy Tony Scalies hopewellroadpharmacy.com (610) 269-0002 Quik-Stop Pharmacy Alissa Steele-Griffith qstoppharmacy.com (610) 384-6100 Photography Aleesha Nicole Photography Aleesha Howe aleeshanicolephotos.com (484) 824-1897

The Lukens Band Mike Givler lukensband.org (610) 383-4197 Networking Groups Women’s Business Connection of Chester County Cheryl Krass wbcchesco.com (484) 823-0110 Office Equipment and Supplies McGill’s Stationers Inc Mark McGill mcgillsstationers.com (610) 383-6555

Images by Trish Trish Kozola imagesbytrish.com (484) 258-1977 Physical Therapy Physical Therapy Workshop John Spangenberg ptworkshop.com (610) 466-7060 Physicians

Ophthalmologists Levin Luminais Chronister Eye Associates Paul Fernandes lleaeyes.com (610) 384-9100 See ad pg. 33 Painting Certapro Painters of Western Chester County John Fecile western-chester-county.certapro.com (484) 283-5003 Parks and Recreation Chester County Parks Becky Brain chesco.org/178/Parks (610) 344-6100

Surgical Specialists, PC Scott Kripke surspc.com (610) 384-6550 Levin Luminais Chronister Eye Associates Paul Fernandes lleaeyes.com (610) 384-9100 See ad pg. 33 Plumbing Residential and Commercial Darryl N. Barber Plumbing & Heating Inc. Darryl Barber darrylbarberandsons.com (610) 273-2369 J-S All Things Plumbing Bob Sparr bobsparr.wix.com/allthingsplumbing (610) 500-4373

——For

Joe Ward Plumbing & Heating, Inc. Joe Ward (610) 593-6474

Brite Realty Services Thomas Taylor briterealty.com (610) 524-8285

Summers & Zims Joseph Zimmerman sumzim.com (610) 593-5129

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

Tri-County Water Services Inc. Brent D. Hershey tricowater.com (610) 857-1740 See ad pg. 63

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

Printing and Copying Service

Radio and TV Stations

Blue Dog Printing & Design Debi Friedmann getbluedog.com (610) 430-7992

WCHE Radio Ron McNiel wche1520.com (610) 692-3131

The UPS Store -Parkesburg Richard Jenkins theupsstore.com (610) 857-2240

Real Estate Commercial Brite Realty Services Thomas Taylor briterealty.com (610) 524-8285

The UPS Store Print Shop Downingtown Bruce Cobb theupsstore.com (610) 518-5010

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

Promotional Products Adelfi Promotions, Inc. Michael Millard adelfipromo.com (484) 999-0656 Blue Dog Printing & Design Debi Friedmann getbluedog.com (610) 430-7992 Image Ink Janet Petsko image-ink.biz (610) 518-5181 Link Promos Megan Lamkin linkpromos.com (717) 543-3767 See ad pg. 59 Paragon Business Gifts, Inc. Greg Krajewski paragonbusinessgifts.com (610) 857-5506 Zakback Inc. Bruce Korn zakback.com (610) 407-0285 Property Management BLUE CORD Property Care Bradley Fink bluecordpropertycare.com (484) 796-1586

Real Estate Residential C. Kenneth Grant Insurance & Real Estate Barry Norton grantinsuranceandrealestate.com (610) 384-6260 Help-U-Sell Direct Homes Matthew Boyle helpusell.com (610) 363-3737 Re/Max Professional Realty Laurie Keen Laurie Keen teammatrixhomes.com (610) 363-8444 The Gorham Group Matt Gorham mattgorhamgroup.com (610) 363-4340 Recycling and Collections Services Reliable Industries Michael Carlini (717) 626-2181 relbox.com Residential Exterior Remodeling Milanese Remodeling Mark Milanese milaneseremodeling.com (610) 384-5820 See ad pg. 4

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

Continued on next page 81

Directory Continued from previous page

Restaurants Beaver Creek Tavern Stuart Deets beavercreek-tavern.com (484) 593-0481 Bright Spot Café Shannon Maria Brower BrightSpotExton.com (610) 458-7000 Greenside Grill at Honeybrook Golf Course Donna Horvath honeybrookgolf.com/greenside (610) 273-0207 Harry’s Neighborhood Place John H. Lymberis HarrysHotdogs.com (610) 857-2331 See ad pg. 32 Little Anthony’s Pizza & Grille Mike Madanat littleanthonyspizza-grille.com (610) 384-2292

Victory Brewing Company Ani Meiklejohn victorybeer.com (610) 514-7027 ZING Sushi John H. Lymberis ZingSushi.com (610) 857-0001 See ad pg. 32 Retirement Life Care Communities Freedom Village at Brandywine Nicole Rosella freedomvillage.com (610) 383-5100 Harrison House of Chester County Jean Bryan harrisonseniorliving.com (610) 384-6310 Harrison Senior Living of Christiana Sherri Stolzfus harrisonseniorliving.com (610) 593-6901 Heatherwood Retirement Community Kerri Jones heatherwoodretire.com (610) 273-9301 Tel Hai Retirement Community David Shenk telhai.org (610) 273-9333

Senior Services

Utilities

Coatesville Area Senior Center Bill Pierce casc.org (610) 383-6900

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

Sign Manufacturing

Pennsylvania American Water Company Justin Brame amwater.com (610) 384-1776 See ad pg. 65

FASTSIGNS EXTON Carrie Mengel fastsigns.com/368 (610) 280-6100 Skin Care and Cosmetics Arbonne International Nina Malone ninamalone.arbonne.com (610) 331-8285

Tri-County Water Services Inc. Brent D. Hershey tricowater.com (610) 857-1740 See ad pg. 63

Telecommunications and Networking

Video Production Multimedia

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

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

FBSG Inc. Cindy Gallo fbsginc.com (610) 633-8824

Eastern Creatives Adam Saylor easterncreatives.com (484) 798-5943

Transportation

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

Little Chef Family Restaurant Nick Lymberis thelittlecheffamilyrestaurant.com (610) 384-3221

Security Systems and Services

Chester County Area Airport Authority Gary Hudson chestercountyairport.com (610) 383-6057

Mr. E’s Tavern & Fine Food Beth Perdue mrestavern.biz (610) 384-4356

Signal 88 Security of Octorara Pete Mango signal88.com (302) 298-3307

Chester County Aviation Steve Fortin chestercountyaviation.com (610) 384-9005

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

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

Krapf Group Gary Krapf krapfbus.com (610) 431-1500

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

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

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

Stottsville Inn Jacob Quinn stottsvilleinn.com (610) 857-4090 See ad pg. 31

Coatesville Self Storage Sandy Chiavaroli coatesvilleselfstorage.com (484) 378-0180

The Attic Lounge at Harry’s John H. Lymberis TheAtticLoungeAtHarrys.com (610) 857-0202 See ad pg. 32 The Craft House Lisa Hashem facebook.com/ThorndaleCraftHouse (484) 786-9008

82

Self Storage

Economy Self Storage Eileen Rowan selfstorageeconomy.com (610) 273-2075 Global Self Storage Jonathan Arasin globalselfstorage.us (610) 857-0777

——Spring/Summer

Travel and Tourism Chester County Conference and Visitor’s Bureau Susan Hamley brandywinevalley.com (610) 719-1730 Tree Care The Tree Connection Ryan Sipple treeconnection.us (484) 888-5360 See ad pg. 60

2019 • Volume 4——

Mercurygraphix Brandon McLean mercurygraphix.com (610) 639-4723 Valley Creek Productions Justin Chan valleycreekproductions.com (215) 525-9904 See ad pg. 27 Website Design Eastern Creatives Adam Saylor easterncreatives.com (484) 798-5943 Hyland Graphic Design & Advertising Matthew Weiss hylandgraphics.com (484) 879-6145 Link Promos Megan Lamkin linkpromos.com (717) 543-3767 See ad pg. 59 Mercurygraphix Brandon McLean mercurygraphix.com (610) 639-4723