Chester County Press 05-07-2025 Edition

One fatality in Hy-Tech Mushroom Compost accident in West Grove

By Richard L. Gaw Staff Writer

A worker was killed during a May 1 machinery accident at the Hy-Tech Mushroom Compost facility at 155 Valley Road in West Grove.

At 6:30 p.m., area fire and emergency responders were dispatched to the scene after being informed that a

worker had become trapped in industrial machinery. The worker sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene and removed from the machinery just after 9 a.m. on May 2. The identity of the deceased has not been released. The circumstances related to how the accident occurred, as well as an investigation about the machinery being used and the sequence of events that led to the

worker’s death have not yet been made available to the public. The details of the incident — including the type of machinery involved and the sequence of events that led to the worker becoming trapped — are under active investigation by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and the Pennsylvania State Police.

Officials are expected to release additional informa-

tion about the incident in the coming days.

The company posted the following statement: “We are deeply saddened by the loss of one of our team members and extend our heartfelt sympathies to the family and friends impacted by this tragedy. We are working closely with investigators to understand how this happened and to ensure the continued safety of our employees.”

The fatality that occurred at the farm was the second

Field of nearly 850 runners compete in 36th Kennett Run

By Richard L. Gaw Staff Writer

Since it first premiered in 1989, the Kennett Run has been the traditional maker of moments that those who compete in the annual race – and those who merely attend – can easily predict. There will be a small village of competitors, sprayed across the grassy area near the concert shell in Anson B. Nixon Park before the race, stretching to the thrashing sounds of

a DJ. There will be mothers and fathers and their children, all brandishing running bibs. The course will be dotted by a diverse assemblage of talent levels, from the surefire to the unsure and from the expert to the novice. Along the stretch of State Street in Kennett Square, those who have no other affiliation with the race other that their residence shares the same town name will cheer from the sidewalk to passing runners. At the

conclusion of the race, as the runners cross the finish line, there is joy, relief and merriment, made possible, in part, by water, bananas, pizza, donuts and the promise of a cold beer for those old enough to enjoy one.

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runners competed in this year’s Kennett Run, which was held on May 3 at Anson B. Nixon Park and throughout the neighboring vicinity of Kennett Square.

Maryland Gov. Wes Moore addresses Lincoln University graduates

By Chris Barber Contributing Writer

The students, families and staff of Lincoln University greeted Maryland Gov. Wes Moore warmly and enthusiastically as he delivered the keynote speech at the school’s 166th commencement ceremony on May 4. An audience of several

hundred individuals filled the huge, makeshift tent that seemed to dwarf the adjacent International Cultural Center. The tent accommodated the large crowd and kept them dry from the rain.

After gratefully thanking the university and its President Brenda Allen for inviting him to speak, Moore referenced the

legacy and wisdom of his grandfather—a 1946 Lincoln University graduate. Moore offered some advice for the students who sat ready to receive their diplomas.

“We give thanks to those who came before us. You will work on those wide shoulders on behalf of our future,” he said.

He warned of extreme binaries in political outlook that have plagued the nation in recent years. He said he rejects “Red versus Blue, Left versus Right, and thinking that loving America means hating the other half.”

No stranger to racial violence and prejudice himself, he said he felt handcuffs placed on his wrists when he was only 11 by overzealous policing, but he later became the chief executive of his state.

Bygones: Landenberg author shares the journey of his first novel

By Gabbie Burton Contributing Writer

Starting a new hobby can sometimes be daunting. There’s no guarantee that you’ll be great at the new activity or that you’ll even enjoy it. Some may just dip their toes into the new waters rather than diving headfirst but Will Kleman is not one of those people.

The 22-year-old Landenberg resident recently published his first novel, Bygones Volume I: Jome’s Secret this March while in his senior year at Villanova University. It was his first attempt at creative writing.

“This is definitely my first try,” Kleman said. “I don’t think I thought I would ever want to write when I was younger, but I guess subcon-

sciously, I kind of always really enjoyed stories and creating things.” Kleman shared that some of his favorite stories that inspired him were from the movies and TV he grew up watching, including the Harry Potter series, the Star Wars series and Lord of the Rings series, and a far as making any similarities to

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a 58-year-old worker at Kaolin Mushrooms was cleaning a machine at the location when he fell from a catwalk and died from head

Kennett Run...

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For the dozens of Kennett Run organizers and volunteers who convene every year to make this race the stunning spectacle it has become, however, there was one element that was thankfully missing during the 2025 race on May 3. It did not rain.

“We had a lot of concern in the days leading up to the race with the forecast that even up to Thursday showed rain for both Friday and Saturday,” said Dr. Al Schmitt, acting president of Kennett Run Charities.

“Friday was our set-up in the park, when volunteers, mostly board members, positioned barricades to mark the start/finish lines, strung banners and positioned tables and placed markers, directional signs and traffic cones to prepare the park and course for the next day.

“Our Race Director John Ramagano also had a consultation with the Police Chief Holdsworth on contingencies for a thunderstorm and runner safety. Lightning strikes could delay any start of the race, and a prolonged delay could mean cancellation of the event entirely as roads could only remain closed for so long within the borough.

“We were all breathing much easier when Friday arrived sunny and mild and the outlook for Saturday showed no precipitation. I believe that was responsible for a last-minute surge in registrations that saw our participant count jump by more than 100 in a single day.”

Beginning at 8:30 a.m. with the Power Run weightlifting competition and extending through the starts and finishes of the 5K, 10K and Children’s Fun Run, Kennett Run 2025 was, essentially,

By Betsy Brewer Brantner

Contributing Writer

The Oxford Village Market has been a welcome

trauma. Over the past two decades, the mushroom industry has gone to great lengths to establish safe workplaces. Back in 2007, the Avondalebased American Mushroom Institute (AMI) and OSHA

first entered into an alliance to develop and provide training and education programs for the mushroom growing industry to prevent falls and amputations, and to reduce or eliminate chemical, electrical and physical hazards.

In 2017, the alliance was renewed, with an emphasis on implementing effective safety and health programs and providing expertise in communicating safety and health information to employers and employees.

In addition, the AMI’s website contains safety toolkits, apps and Worker Protection Standard (WPS) training videos that have been developed by the Pennsylvania Office of Rural Health - Rural Health

Farm Worker Protection Safety Program with funding from the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture.

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

a dry run for nearly 850 competitors, who scampered through the borough past cheering crowds and the sounds of the Kennett High School Marching Band, who performed from the deck at the Melton Terrace at the Kennett Library. In the Power Run 10K category, 14-year-old Cleivin Jeronimo took first place in the Men’s Under 19 group of competitors with an adjusted time of 13:18, while 12-year-old Dragomir Rose finished in second with an adjusted time of 43:25.

In the Men’s 2-64 category, Angelo Chaclas won with an adjusted time of 24:36; Steven McMillen took second place with an adjusted time of 28:51; and Caleb Edwards finished third with an adjusted time of 32:31. In the Women’s category, Natalie Moravek finished at the top with an adjusted time of 11:35, while Mary Kay Robinson finished second with an adjusted time of 38:16.

Fifteen-year-old Maddox Kirk took first place in the Men’s 5K Power Run Under 19 category with an adjusted time of 11:37; 14-year-old Luke Andress took second with an adjusted time of 18:11; and 12-yearold Jonathan Allen finished

third with an adjusted time of 32:49. In the Male 20-64 category, Nick Murdock finished first with an adjusted time of 5:17; followed by Geoff Hart who recorded an adjusted time of 10:29; and Devin O’Hare with an adjusted time of 11:24. In the Men’s 5K 65 and over category, Michael Perna took first place with an adjusted time of 17:11, followed by Tim Johnson, whose adjusted time was 27:17.

In the Women’s 5K Power Run, Lea Robbins took first place with an adjusted time of 10:52; Alyson Jenkins finished in second with an adjusted time of 14:55; and Sharon Iacoangelo took third place with an adjusted time of 16:18.

For a complete listing of all race results, visit www. races2run.com.

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

Oxford Village Market returns

staple of the downtown since the early 2000s— nearly 25 years. It is a real convenience to those that don’t have transportation, or those that like to slowly

stroll through the historic Borough of Oxford.

This year, the market is moving to Thursdays from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. on the Edward Jones lawn at the corner of Locust and Third Street, its original location.

The market is now open every Thursday from May through October.

This year, the market will have a new addition— a food truck. Foodies can enjoy a leisurely meal at picnic tables. The food trucks will rotate so the public can discover the variety of Oxford’s enjoy-

able cuisine.

Melissa Pacella, the executive director of SILO (Serving, Inspiring, and Loving Others) recently shared news that the agency is partnering with the Oxford Village Market.

“Fresh produce is our most frequently requested food item,” Pacella explained.

“By adding just one extra item to their market basket, shoppers can help ensure that everyone in our community has access to healthy, local produce.”

Each market day, shoppers will find a SILO donation basket where they are encouraged to purchase a little extra — a pint of ber-

ries, a bundle of carrots, a head of lettuce — and place it in the basket. At the end of each market day, SILO will collect the donated food and distribute it through their Delivering Hope program, which brings groceries directly to families and individuals facing food insecurity in the community. This simple act of generosity allows market-goers to easily and directly support local families while helping to reduce food waste and build a stronger, more connected Oxford.

Pacella said, “We believe in meeting people where they are — and thanks to

the generosity of the Oxford Village Market community, we can bring fresh food directly to the doorsteps of those who need it most.

The Oxford Village Market has always been a place that brings people together — now it’s also a place where neighbors can help nourish each other. It’s a small action with a big impact.” Vendors can also sell their creations at the market.

Participating in the market is free to vendors this year. However, registration is required. Please email info@oxfordmainstreet. com for information about how to register.

Amanda Reynolds, the Oxford Mainstreet, Inc. (OMI) Mainstreet Manager can walk vendors through the requirements of the health department, if necessary.

OMI is still accepting vendor registrations. They are particularly looking for produce farmers, those selling honey and other specialty foods to join the great group of market vendors. Craft vendors, artists, and anyone with a unique handmade creation is also invited.

Moore delivered a message about the importance of patriotism while maintaining the proper cautions of what can come with it. He said he has clung to three basic principles of “What it means to be a patriotic American.”

The first principle is realizing, as his grandfather taught and believed, is that patriotism is more than words.

“Patriotism is not and cannot be a passive activity,” he said. “You will be tested, and the love of your country will be tested.”

The second principle: “Don’t believe that our country is perfect or the lie that its history is perfect,”

he said. “It’s about struggle and sacrifice. Loving a country does not mean lying about its history. … that binary does not leave room for its betterment.”

The third principle: “Skepticism about the country is justified. Just let it be your companion, but not your captain,” he said.

Moore said the honorable legacy of Lincoln University and its survival is something that the graduates will carry with them on their life journeys.

He talked about how far Lincoln University has come, and compared it to how things have changed and improved in his home state of Maryland.

Moore said, “Lincoln University was founded in 1854 when even considering a black man as three-fifths

The University Marshall leads the academic procession into commencement ceremonies.

of a man was generous. … My state was the birthplace of red-lining. It was the site of some of the bloodiest battles of the Civil War. The building I serve in was built by enslaved individuals. My city was a slave port.”

Through it all, he added, Lincoln University has survived and risen to greatness as few others have.

Moore, 47, is Maryland’s first Black governor and is the third African-American in the United States to be elected governor.

He is a graduate of Valley Forge Military Academy and Johns Hopkins University, where he graduated Phi Beta Kappa.

He served the military in Afghanistan, where he was a captain with the 82nd Airborne Division, and wrote the books, “The Other Wes Moore” and “Five Days.”

He lives in Baltimore with his wife, Dawn Flythe Moore, and their two children, Mia and James.

Shortly after his keynote speech, Moore was bestowed the hood of the honorary doctorate along with five other individuals. The recipients are the late author/artist Vincent Carter; higher education and finance leader Donald Julian Reaves; pharmaceutical executive, inventor, and philanthropist Myrtle Potter; psychologist and educator Desmund Gordon; and minister and educator Ethelyn Taylor.

Lincoln University, located in Lower Oxford Township, is the nation’s first degree-granting Black College and University.

Several well-known

Author...

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these classics, Kleman said that Bygones can be compared most to the Harry Potter films because of the shared fantasy genre and the coming of age story that serve as key narratives.

The story of Bygones introduces two brothers as they embark on unexpected journeys that both test them and force the pair to question the rules of the land where they grew up. To layer his work, Kleman created an accompanying soundtrack with seven original pieces that follow the plot of the novel.

“I would say the soundtracks are one of the reasons I really enjoy movies sometimes over books because you get more of a feeling of the vibe of where the story is going and the characters,” he said. “I tried to pick scenes that were different enough from each other, so that the songs aren’t too similar, so that you can kind of get a sense of each place that the characters are going.”

Kleman played drums in elementary school and followed by picking up the guitar and piano in middle school from his father Bill and his sister, Abby.

Collaborating with his father, Kleman wrote each piece of the soundtrack and then recorded the songs with his former drum teacher and a team of musicians in a studio.

A four-year process from start to finish

Balancing the writing of a novel and creating an original soundtrack while also being a full-time student majoring in economics and computer science took time and dedication. Kleman wrote the novel over four years, beginning in his senior year at Kennett High School to his senior year at Villanova.

“I would usually work on it between either homework or when I had downtime or was in the library after a late class,” he said. “I also like having that contrast between schoolwork and then when

I’m not doing the homework, having something that’s a little bit freer and more creative.”

Kleman reflected on the journey of the novel of those four years but also on his own journey in that pivotal bridge of time between adolescence and adulthood.

“I think because the characters I have created are pretty similar to my age, I would say I kind of grew as I was writing with the characters,” Kleman said. “I think that it definitely helped my experience that I wrote it over a long period of time, rather than rushing it through in a year or two.”

When Kleman finally finished the novel, he received help from his mother, Jamie, a children’s book author, in self-publishing the novel under Amazon’s KDP publishing program, with hopes that it will become available in bookstores.

Moving forward, Kleman has begun the outline for the next novel in the series and hopes to expand the series one day into a movie. After he graduates from Villanova

that

on May 16, he plans on moving back to Landenberg and finding work in his areas of study while still pursuing his creative interests.

Kleman concluded with his thoughts and advice for other young adults who may be hesitating diving headfirst into a challenging and creative project.

“I think it is important to have something that you’re passionate about, and even if you can only work on

it for 30 minutes a day, I think it’s important to at least give it that time,” he said. “Starting out I think is the hardest thing, but once you’re in, I think you’ll see that it’s not as hard and it’s

State Sen. Tartaglione introduces Bill 19 to raise Pennsylvania’s minimum wage

State Sen. Christine Tartaglione (D–2, Philadelphia) formally introduced Senate Bill 19, legislation aimed at raising Pennsylvania’s minimum wage to $15 an hour by 2026 and tying future increases to the cost of living. The bill also strengthens wage protections for tipped employees and modernizes enforcement tools to prevent wage theft and ensure fair pay across the Commonwealth.

“It’s been 19 years since Pennsylvania last raised its

minimum wage,” said Sen. Tartaglione. “In that time, the cost of rent, food, childcare, transportation, and healthcare has steadily increased, while wages at the bottom have remained stagnant. Senate Bill 19 is an effort to correct nearly two decades of inaction and to provide workers with a living wage that reflects today’s economic realities.”

At $7.25 an hour, Pennsylvania’s minimum wage remains at the federal floor, unchanged since

2006. Every neighboring state, including those with a lower cost of living, has increased its minimum wage in recent years. In fact, 30 states across the country have taken action to raise wages, leaving Pennsylvania behind both economically and competitively.

Senate Bill 19 would raise the statewide minimum wage to $15 an hour beginning in 2026 with cost-of-living adjustments triggering each year thereafter, ensuring that wages keep pace with infla-

tion in the years to come.

The legislation also sets the tipped wage at 70 percent of the minimum wage, reaffirms that gratuities are the property of the employee, and provides municipalities with the authority to set higher local minimums.

“We cannot ignore the impact of rising prices, particularly in light of new federal tariffs that are expected to increase the cost of everyday goods like groceries, medicine, clothing, and household essentials,” Sen. Tartaglione

Shear Hope for survivors of domestic violence

The Chester County

Office (CCSO), Chester County District

Office (DAO), and the Domestic Violence Center of Chester County

(DVCCC) have partnered to launch Shear Hope — a proactive educational initiative aimed at supporting survivors of domestic violence by connecting them with

trained professionals in the cosmetology field.

The Shear Hope program equips cosmetologists with the tools and resources to recognize the signs of

domestic abuse, respond with empathy, and serve as a bridge to critical resources. Participating salon professionals are trained to identify physical and behavioral indicators of abuse, communicate effectively, and connect clients with appropriate support systems and resources.

To preserve the safety and privacy of survivors, the locations of participating salons are confidential and will not be publicly disclosed. Shear Hope prioritizes discretion and trust, ensuring that victims can receive support without fear of exposure or retaliation.

This initiative represents a county-wide commitment to creating safe spaces and increasing awareness through cross-agency collaboration. Cosmetologists are not expected to intervene directly but instead serve as bridges to support and information.

The program includes informational materials, referral resources, and training sessions held on days when most salons are closed to maximize accessibility for industry professionals.

For more information about the Shear Hope program or to inquire about upcoming training opportunities, please contact the Chester County Sheriff’s Office at 610-344-6525.

said. “The burden of these increases will fall heaviest on the people earning the least, and we have a responsibility to act.”

According to estimates from the Keystone Research Center, over 1.3 million Pennsylvanians would see their wages rise directly or indirectly under this proposal. These workers are overwhelmingly adults, many of whom serve in essential roles such as home health aides, childcare providers, grocery clerks, and restaurant servers.

“Raising the minimum wage is not just a matter of economic policy, it is a moral and practical necessity,” said Sen. Tartaglione. “When people are paid fairly, families are more stable, communities

are stronger, and businesses thrive. This legislation is about restoring dignity to work and ensuring that no one who works full-time is forced to live in poverty.”

The legislation has been assigned Bill 19 to mark the 19 years Pennsylvania has gone without increasing its minimum wage. Sen. Tartaglione noted her willingness to work across the aisle to advance the bill and emphasized that securing a long-overdue wage increase should not be viewed as a partisan issue.

“We have the opportunity and the obligation to get this right,” she concluded. “This is not about politics—this is about people. The time for excuses has passed. The time to raise the wage is now.”

Make sure to vote

It’s time again to encourage everyone to make sure that they exercise their right to vote. The Primary Election in Pennsylvania is coming up on Tuesday, May 20.

“Local” is a good word to apply to the upcoming Primary Election. This is an off-year election, and there are dozens of positions on the ballot and a vast majority of them are local.

There are a variety of judicial positions on the ballot and several county row offices, including county controller, treasurer, and coroner. Voters will weigh in on school board races and mayoral contests. Seats on borough councils and township supervisor boards will also be decided.

In a Primary Election, Democrat voters and Republican voters select the candidates they want to represent the parties during the November general election. Pennsylvania has a closed primary system. This means that Republican voters can vote only for Republican candidates and Democratic voters can vote only for Democratic candidates. The candidates who receive the highest number of votes go on to run in the general election.

These local contests are important. These locally elected officials will make decisions that have a large impact on our day-to-day lives than the decisions that are made by elected officials in much higher positions.

Voting isn’t just a right, it’s a responsibility. And it’s a responsibility we should all take seriously. Free and fair elections are a cornerstone of our democracy, and we’d all be much better off if more of us participated in elections—and by doing so, held elected officials accountable for their job performance. So make sure that your voice is heard on Election Day.

The last day to request a mail-in or absentee ballot for the Primary Election is May 13.

On May 20, the polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.

For residents who aren’t yet registered to vote in Pennsylvania, the last day to register to vote in the Municipal Election is October 20. The last day to request a mail-in or absentee ballot for the Municipal Election is October 28.

The Municipal Election will then take place on Tuesday, November 4.

For much more election information, including where you vote, the county’s Department of Voter Services has a page on the Chester County website at www.chesco.org.

Floral Mist on Mother’s Day (A Tribute)

By Marie-Louise Meyers

Easter tide came and went with its statuesque bunnies and vivid ribbons on baskets rent with many regrets of daffodils now spent. Mother’s Day tulips past their prime, even wisteria on the decline. Still no summer blast could deter a finch picking up a vivid purple ribbon on the wing weaving a nest between twigs and seasonal gaps with a feathery haze of wisteria preserved in a grassy and straw bassinet; amazed at her grasp of worms grazing, interweaving between the pastured buttercups and violets.

Guest Column

Environmentalism is conservative

By Eric Ruark

Ask most Republicans or right-leaning voters for their thoughts on “environmentalism,” and you’ll hear a litany of complaints about progressives’ attempts to remake our economy, increase the cost of living, and regulate small businesses into the ground.

It’s simply a political reality that campaigns against eating meat and zoning battles to outlaw single-family homes – not to mention the war on oil and natural gas – have made “environmentalist” practically a dirty word on the Right.

That’s a problem, because protecting our environment, conserving our natural resources for future generations, and promoting a high quality of life for all Americans are fundamentally conservative endeavors.

This isn’t an attack on or a defense of the political Right. It’s an argument that it’s long past time for the Right to seriously take up the mantle of environmental stewardship rather than ceding it to the radical Left, and that project must begin with addressing the urban sprawl that’s been devouring our

fields, forests, coasts, and rivers for decades – largely thanks to population growth driven by immigration.

The United States gained almost 90 million people over the last forty years. We’re on track to add another 65 million or so by 2060.

All that growth has consequences. Between 2002 and 2017, urban sprawl consumed more than 17,000 square miles of previously open spaces – an area roughly twice the size of New Jersey. And a whopping two-thirds (67 percent) of that land loss resulted from constructing new houses, shopping venues, roads, and other infrastructure to accommodate increased demand from a growing population.

All this sprawl fundamentally disrupts the places and ways of life we hold dear. A study from the U.S. Department of the Interior and North Carolina State University predicts that, based on current trends, the Southeast will eventually become one “megalopolis,” a “seamless” urban corridor stretching from Raleigh, N.C. to Atlanta, Ga., “at the expense of agricultural and forest lands.”

There’s nothing conservative about that.

Fortunately, this future isn’t inevitable. Voters have the power to chart a different course. Local ordinances are a good place to start. Consider how zoning regulations can protect certain areas from new development.

Libertarians may gripe about government overreach, but reasonable people recognize zoning for what it is: a legitimate way for local citizens to prevent unwanted growth and unwelcome change.

The federal government, though, plays the biggest role. It grants lifetime residency and work permits to over one million legal immigrants each year – a number that has stayed relatively consistent for decades, regardless of which party holds the White House.

Republicans in Congress have proposed reforms to decrease both legal and illegal immigration – which would curtail the population growth that’s transforming communities nationwide.

In 2023, the House passed a sweeping immigration bill that would end catch-andrelease, end abuse of parole that was rampant under the

Opinion

Biden-Harris administration, and require every U.S. employer to check the legal status of recent hires through E-Verify. Republicans have also sponsored bills that would reduce “chain migration,” which enables recent immigrants to sponsor their overseas relatives for green cards – regardless of whether those relatives have the skills to succeed in the 21st century economy.

If tens of millions more people move to the United States in the coming years, the dreaded army of bulldozers, cement-rollers, and tree-cutters will only keep advancing. There’s no way around it.

For too long, the environmental movement has been dangerously politicized. While the Left has done little actual conservation, many on the Right have defaulted to opposing conservation efforts on “principle.” This has to change. Maybe the debate over how to manage future immigration flows will be the catalyst.

Eric Ruark is director of research for NumbersUSA. This piece originally appeared in the Palm Beach Post.

Stop gambling with the care Pennsylvania’s older population deserves

By Garry Pezzano

As Pennsylvania’s Baby Boomer generation continues to age, the commonwealth’s system is failing to meet the growing demand for nursing home care, the LIFE program and other critical aging services.

In fact, at a time when we should be expanding services, nursing homes are removing beds and scaling back services due to a persistent workforce shortage and inadequate Medicaid funding support. Despite increases in recent years, there is a chasm between the cost of care and what providers are reimbursed.

A decade ago, Pennsylvania knew this was coming. Providers repeatedly sounded the alarm as the senior population increased and the working-age population declined. Now, we’re facing a reality with fewer options available for seniors who can no longer safely care for themselves on their own.

Between November 2024 and January 2025, nursing home providers were forced to turn away at least 2,443 seniors because of a lack of available beds, according to a recent survey conducted in part by LeadingAge PA. The report,

Chester County Press

Gene Pisasale...........................Contributing

Brenda Butt.....................................Office

“How Workforce Shortages Across Pennsylvania’s Health Care Continuum Affect Access to Care,” revealed that nearly half of all nursing home providers limited or denied admissions due to overly rigid staffing regulations. Over half indicate double-digit vacancies despite raising pay rates and increasing recruiting efforts for direct-care staffing positions.

Our government must recognize that these challenges don’t only impact nursing homes; this crisis is now impacting our hospital partners upstream. That same survey found that 70 percent of hospitals have seen emergency room wait times increase due to workforce shortages, as reported by members of the Hospital and Healthsystem Association of PA (HAP).

Meanwhile, insufficient Medicaid funding threatens the success of Pennsylvania’s Living Independence for the Elderly (LIFE) program, which serves more than 8,000 older adults wishing to remain at home by providing coordinated care, social engagement, medical services, personal care assistance, nutritional support and transportation as an alternative managed-care

option.

Unfortunately, with rising costs, the situation is only worsening. Many aging services providers are running out of options and being forced to make difficult decisions, including closing their doors and limiting access to care in local communities.

Every year since 2020, reputable facilities have closed or been sold, including Twining Village in Bucks County, Westminster Village at Allentown in Northampton County, the Vincentian Marian Manor in Pittsburgh and Wesley Enhanced Living Burholme in Philadelphia. Just last month, a Luzerne County nursing home announced it had no choice but to close due to its inability to sustain operations. Others are combining operations to stay financially viable.

Simply put, the system is broken, and the commonwealth is falling short. Providers continue to be paid only a fraction of the cost to provide this necessary level of care. We estimate most of our members are reimbursed only 45 percent to 60 percent of their actual care costs.

After all other avenues are exhausted, there’s only one way left to attempt to make up the reimbursement shortfall for Medicaid residents without turning them away entirely: raise rates on private pay residents. This means residents who prepared financially for their retirement care are seeing their resources depleted faster than ever before, ultimately resulting in more Medicaideligible seniors. That simply isn’t fair and not sustainable.

Approximately 70 percent of nursing home residents, and nearly all LIFE participants in Pennsylvania, currently rely on Medicaid for their care. If we cannot find a way to

reduce the gap between costs and reimbursement for providers, they will continue to reduce Medicaid beds, deepening the existing access to care crisis.

The solution must be a fair and consistent funding system that will rise to meet the needs of Pennsylvania’s aging population — or we’ll continue to gamble with the care Pennsylvania’s older population deserves. We cannot be more clear: Pennsylvania has not allocated sufficient resources or put the proper mechanisms in place to ensure continued access to care and support for some of the most vulnerable individuals in our state. State lawmakers, the Shapiro administration and stakeholders must come together to establish a predictable and sustainable funding system for nursing homes and LIFE providers.

Let’s be candid. LeadingAge PA members consider caring for older adults an honor, a privilege and a responsibility. These individuals are retired teachers, pastors, police officers, Little League coaches and civic leaders. They dedicated their lives to bettering their communities, only to outlive their resources through no fault of their own.

When we fail to invest in the organizations whose mission is to care for them, we fail to invest in the heart of Pennsylvania — in those who came before us and now depend on us to ensure they have the care they need and deserve.

Garry Pezzano is the President and CEO of LeadingAge PA. Follow him on LinkedIn and X @ GarryPezzano and learn more about aging services at leadingagepa.org.

Brandywine Conservancy introduces interactive website for gardeners

The Brandywine Conservancy recently launched a new interactive website with the Brandywine Native Garden Hub designed to inspire gardeners of all levels and skillsets.

The Brandywine Native Garden Hub is a free, user-friendly website that serves as both an educational guide and an interactive database for anyone interested in incorporating native plants into their landscapes. Naturally occurring in a specific region without human intervention, native plants have adapted to the climate and soil over time, making them easier to grow and maintain, plus they directly benefit pollinators, wildlife, and the local ecology.

With the Brandywine Native Garden Hub, users can search for and learn more about native plants specific to Pennsylvania and northern Delaware, save their favorites to personalized “garden boards,” and browse through a suite of educational resources to help enhance their gardening success.

“We are so excited to share the Brandywine Native Garden Hub with our broader community,” said Stephanie Armpriester, director of conservation and stewardship at the Brandywine Conservancy.

“Our main goal with this new website is to break down barriers for those interested in getting started with native plants and to provide them with all the tools they need to begin their garden jour-

neys. With this accessible online resource, we hope to inspire beginners to join us in our important missionrelated work in their own backyards and landscapes.”

Armpriester added, “It’s also a perfect companion tool to the slate of educational programs the Brandywine Conservancy offers around native plants throughout the year, as well as our annual Native Plant Sales, both here on our campus in Chadds Ford, and in Western Pennsylvania at our Penguin Court Preserve.”

The Brandywine Native Garden Hub is now available at www. NativeGardenHub.org, and it contains information on more than 250 native plant species found in the region. Each plant profile contains everything you need to know about the plant— from growing conditions to key attributes and wildlife benefits—along with photos that show different growth stages. Users can also personalize their searches by filtering for plants according to their garden’s specific growing conditions, including sunlight exposure, soil type, and soil moisture. Plants can even be sorted by the user’s preferred attributes and benefits, including plant type, height/width, peak bloom time, bloom color, deer resistance, fragrance, and more.

To help visualize and plan their dream gardens, users can create a free account to build personalized “garden boards” that are customized to their

unique growing spaces. Boards can be curated for the spaces users currently have, the type of gardens they are looking to start— such as a container garden for smaller spaces or one designed to attract specific pollinators—or even boards for future garden inspiration. Once users set up their boards, they can “pin” their favorite plants while browsing to save them for building out their garden plans. Users can also add, edit, and create as many garden boards as they’d like, which can be referenced at any time on both desktop and mobile devices.

To equip users with even more tools for success during their gardening journeys, the Brandywine Native Garden Hub also features a wealth of educational resources. Users can dive into the beginner’s guide for getting started with native plants or browse through other articles, including topics on how to prep a container garden, tackling invasive species, and seasonal gardening tips. Additional articles will be published throughout the year for continued learning.

For more than five decades, the Brandywine Conservancy has been a trusted leader in growing and promoting the use, preservation, and appreciation of native plants.

The Brandywine Native Garden Hub is the latest extension of this work, providing a digital platform to help gardeners bring the benefits of native plants

to their own landscapes.

To start your journey with native plants, visit www. NativeGardenHub.org.

The launch of this new online resource also comes at the perfect time, right before the return of the Brandywine Conservancy’s annual Wildflower, Native Plant & Seed Sale on May 10 and 11, (with early member access available on May 9). Held outside in

the Brandywine Museum of Art’s courtyard in Chadds Ford, the sale includes a wide variety of native wildflowers, grasses, ferns, vines, shrubs and trees. The Brandywine Native Garden Hub is a great resource to reference in advance of the sale and can be used to create a “shopping list” with a custom Garden Board to bring to the event. More information on the Native Plant Sale can be found at www.brandywine.org/ native-plant-sale.

Created by the Brandywine Conservancy, the Brandywine Native Garden Hub was designed and developed by Infantree—a creative agency based in Lancaster, Pa.—and made possible through a generous grant from the Allegheny Foundation.

Harriet Rose Honer (née Latissa), of West Chester and formerly of Philadelphia, passed away on April 3, 2025 at the Chester County Pocopson Home in West Chester. She was 93. She was married to the love of her life, the late Albert Harry Honer, whom she met on a blind date which would go on to change their lives forever. Harriet and Albert were blessed with five sons and one daughter, and shared 67 years of marriage up until his death in 2020. Albert’s sister Ginny, a co-worker of Harriet’s, was the one who set them up. She and Harriet were close friends who grew into sisters, sharing much time together and having their kids grow up together while forming strong family bonds that continue with many family reunions to this day.

Born in Philadelphia, she was the daughter of the late Pasquale and Lois Latissa.

During Harriet’s earlier years, she graduated from the prestigious Philadelphia High School for Girls and was employed with the Bell Atlantic Telephone Company.

Alleluia

My presence will go with you, and I will give

TheChesterCountyPressfeaturesadedicatedchurch/religious pagethatcanhelpyouadvertiseyourhouseofworshipand/or business.Thepageisupdatedweeklywithnewscripture.Only$10 Weeklyforthisspace.

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HARRIET HONER

As a child of the Depression era, she was fiercely frugal, making sure that her family never went without even when things were tight. With her husband’s career taking him away for days at a time, she was a strong presence in her children’s lives. She firmly taught them right from wrong regardless of the fact that she had such a soft heart and was prone to breaking out in tearful expressions of joy and love.

Harriet’s love for music began at a young age. She didn’t need to read music to be able to play anything she heard beautifully. She enjoyed playing the piano for her family as well as for residents at several nursing homes in her later years. She and Albert would be excited to discuss their favorite TV show, “The Sopranos,” and their love for gardening. Throughout the years, they hosted many epic pool parties with lines of fresh towels hanging on the fence, a kitchen full of extra meat hoagies and Entenmann’s pastries, and a garage full of diet sodas.

Her proudest accomplishments were undoubtedly her family. She cherished her role as a mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, finding immense joy in the company of her children, grandkids, and great-grandkids. She valued her independence above all else, and maintained it

throughout most of her life.

She is survived by one sister, Lois; a sister-inlaw, Joanne; four sons, Albert Jr. (Joan), Raymond (Rosemary), John (Sharon), and Carl (Betsy); one daughter, Linda; and ten grandchildren, Lisa (Micah), Elizabeth, Tricia (Ryan), Thomas, Stacey (Michael), Christian (Valenti), Nicholas, Kenneth, Nathan and Cathy. Also surviving are nine great-grandchildren, Ryan, Isabella, Zachary, Ariel, Owen, Hazel, Sophia, Ivey, and Naomi, and several nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her husband, her brother Anthony, sisters Lynn and Marcy, and a son, Kenneth.

Her memory will be held dear by all who were fortunate enough to experience her unique spirit and unwavering love.

Harriet’s family wishes to show their appreciation to everyone at Chester County Pocopson Home in West Chester for the loving care shown to her throughout her time there.

A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, May 13 at Wagontown Union Chapel at 469 W. Kings Highway in Coatesville, Pa. Friends and family are invited to visit from 10:30 a.m. to 11 a.m.

Obituary submissions

The Chester County Press publishes obituaries free of charge for funeral homes with active advertising accounts only. Others with a connection to southern Chester County are charged a modest fee. Obituaries appear on the Wednesday after they are received with a Monday 5 p.m. deadline. They are also posted on www.chestercounty.com. Photos should be sent as .jpeg attachments to the obituary text. To submit an obituary to the Chester County Press or for a rate quote, email the information to editor@chestercounty.com.

GREGORY LEE MAYO

Gregory Lee Mayo, of West Chester, Pa., passed away peacefully on May 1, 2025. He was 63.

Gregory was a beloved son, brother, and friend whose warmth and adventurous spirit touched all who knew him.

Gregory was predeceased by his father, Richard Mayo, Sr.; his mother, Roslyn Mayo; and his brother, Richard Mayo, Jr. He carried their memories with him throughout his life, honoring them through his kindness and zest for living.

He is survived by two brothers, Brian Mayo of Exton, Pa. and Marc Mayo of Tampa, Fla.

Gregory was a systems specialist at Oracle. A true lover of music, “Greg” found joy in attending concerts, where he could lose himself in the melodies and rhythms that spoke to his soul. He was also an avid outdoorsman, happiest when mountain biking along winding trails and exploring the beauty of nature.

Greg’s legacy is one of laughter, adventure, and a deep appreciation for the simple pleasures in life. He will be dearly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

A private memorial will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Gregory Mayo’s name to a local music organization, outdoor recreation organization, or the American Diabetes Association at P.O. Box 7023 Merrifield, Va. 22116-7023.

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

DONALD A. OVERTON

Donald A. Overton (1935-2025), Emeritus Professor of Psychology at Temple University, passed away peacefully after a brief illness at the age of 89 in Kennett Square on April 30, 2025.

Don was born in Troy, N.Y, to the late Ernest C. Overton and Evangeline Smith Overton of Mechanicsville, N.Y. Don was an older brother to both Roger Overton (deceased) and to Ralph Overton (of Kettering, Ohio). Don was a loving husband to Dr. M. Kathleen Clark Gordon, and stepparent to Jeffrey A Gordon and his wife Elizabeth Fleming Gordon of Media, Pa. and step-grandparent to Travis Matthiessen Bennett of Austin, Texas.

Don’s greatest scientific achievements encompassed state-dependent learning and drug discrimination studies, but his life’s impact went far beyond this in the people whose lives he entered and affected. One of Don’s former trainees shared that “Under Don’s tutelage, I learned the value of understanding complex individual differences in behavior, the heart of the scientific method, the advantages of surrounding yourself with people with different experiences than yourself, and that kindness and empathy can easily coexist with devotion to hard work and scientific excellence.”

Don’s graduate work at McGill University (“Control of learned responses by drug states,” 1962) was later published in several seminal publications on state-dependent learning, a phenomenon where information is better recalled when one’s mental state is the same at time of encoding and time of recall. He added to this work for the bulk of his scientific career, with positions at the Eastern Pennsylvania Psychiatric Institute and Temple University (Departments of Psychology and Psychiatry). Don was the principal organizer and first President of The Society for Stimulus Properties of Drugs (SSPD), in 1978. He was also highly involved with what was then referred to as Division 28 of the American Psychological Association, the division of psychopharmacology and substance abuse. This was an age when experimental psychology, behavioral pharmacology and cellular neuroscience were competing and often at odds with one another, and SSPD was a major influence in bringing scientists from these fields together. Drug discrimination served for decades as the gold-standard for measuring the subjective effects of drugs and contributed to academic and private industry attempts to better understand the effects of psychoactive compounds. Don’s observations were most often recorded by his trusty Dictaphone, to be transcribed later, sometimes briefly interrupted by a zesty bite of his lunch, usually obtained from the Szechuan food truck just outside of Wilson Hall in the Temple University campus.

When asked about his scientific work, Don’s humility always was forefront. He typically answered very quickly and simply, saying “I train rats.” And he did train rats—with incredible creativity, rigor, insightfulness, and care. But he also did so much more. Don was fascinated with understanding the neural bases of emotion and empathy, especially later in his career. This culminated in the founding of the Good Nature Institute in 2005, with his wife Kathleen Gordon. Their nonprofit provided small pilot funds for emerging investigators. Don could often be found in the poster sessions of the Society for Neuroscience annual meeting, engaging with trainees and young faculty, and offering support.

“The Donald,” as he was lovingly referred to by Kathleen, was a thoughtful and impactful scientist, mentor, and benefactor—and a truly amazing human being. He will be deeply missed. The Donald will be remembered for his warm and supportive, even if sometimes awkward spirit, his unwavering love for Kathleen, for his truly incredible scientific accomplishments and his zest for life and experiences.

Interment services for Donald Overton will be held privately. A memorial service to celebrate Donald’s life at Kendal Community will be announced at a later date. Contributions in his memory may be made to AFSC, (American Friends Service Committee), 1501 Cherry Street, Philadelphia, Pa. 19102.

This obituary was lovingly created by Gregg Stanwood, a former student.

All arrangements are being handled by Grieco Funeral Home & Crematory, Inc. of Kennett Square (484-734-8100).

To view the online obituary and leave condolences for the family, please visit www. griecofunerals.com.

RICHARD JOHN FLORSCHUTZ

Richard John Florschutz, age 81, of Chadds Ford, passed away on April 21, 2025 at Chester County Hospital in West Chester. He was the spouse of Karin Florschutz, with whom he shared 59 years of marriage.

Born in Harrisburg, Pa., he was a son of Otto Florschutz and Berta Schatzler Florschutz of Elizabethtown, Pa. Richard graduated from Indiana University with a master’s degree in graphic design.

He was the business owner for Graphic Design Associates, in Wilmington, Del. He is survived by Karin Florschutz (wife), Karl Florschutz (son) and Lori Florschutz (daughter-in-law), Kyle Florschutz (grandson), Casie Florschutz (granddaughter), Averie Florschutz (granddaughter), Craig Florschutz (son), Jennifer Florschutz (daughter-in-law) Nicholas Florschutz (grandson), Dylan Florschutz (grandson), Natalie Florschutz-Miller (granddaughter), Beau Miller (great-grandson), Josie Miller (great-granddaughter), and Joe Miller (grandson-in-law).

Richard enjoyed gardening, stone carving, being the number-one sports fan for his grandchildren, and valued time with his family and friends.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a contribution to Delaware Wild Lands, Inc., P.O. Box 505, Odessa, Del. 19730. And dewildlands.org/make-a-contribution.

Arrangements are being handled by Grieco Funeral Home & Crematory, Inc. of Kennett Square (484-734-8100).

To view Richard’s online obituary and leave condolences for the family, please visit www.griecofunerals.com.

FRANCIS CHARLES THOMSON

Francis Charles Thomson died peacefully at home after a long illness. He was 85. He was born at home in West Chester. His parents were Charles Levis Thomson and Alice Osborne Thomson. He attended school at Saint Agnes Catholic Church, and then immediately joined the U.S. Marines in 1956.

His first career after serving in the military was as a machinist and supervisor at JM Schmidt Precision Tool Co, while also working as a night manager at Bevan’s Cold Cuts, where he enjoyed working with his daughters, Brenda and Patty. Following his retirement at Precision Tool, he worked for the Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board.

Fran lived a life rich in service to others. While his daughters were in school, he was an active member of West Chester East Band Boosters, chaperoning many band trips. He was a board member of LAPS, the Large Animal Protection Society, for 10 years, volunteering alongside his sister, Charlotte. They helped rescue horses and other large animals. Fran always had horses, and he enjoyed attending steeplechase races in the area.

He attended Willowdale Church, and when the Jennersville campus opened, he volunteered to run the coffee bar at both services for several years. He was a member and past president of the Avon Grove Lions Club, and volunteered at their Book Barn every Friday evening and Saturday morning.

He was preceded in death by his grandson, Eddie Gates. He is survived by Linda Haldeman, his beloved partner of 30 years; his sister, Charlotte (Richard) Carrigan; and his daughters, Tara Ray, Deborah (Scott) Gates, Patricia (Jim) Sullivan, and Brenda (Wayne) Clemson.

Also surviving are nephew Steve (Drew) Carrigan, 11 grandchildren and 22 great-grandchildren. He is also survived by 7 stepchildren, Jason Haldeman, Alissa O’Hara, Jessica (Ryan) Conley, Jared (Feather) Haldeman, Amy (Daniel) Flather, Andrew (Mindy) Haldeman, Rebecca (Tony) DeRose and 16 step-grandchildren. A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. on June 3 at Willowdale Church, Jennersville campus, with visitation at 10 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Avon Grove Lions Club. Checks can be mailed to 600 North Baker Station, West Grove, Pa. 19390.

AMERICAN DREAMS

Those who touch our lives stay in our hearts forever. Fran, you are greatly loved and will be deeply missed.

Arrangements are by Grieco Funeral Home & Crematory, Inc. of Kennett Square (484-734-8100).

AMERICAN DREAMS

To view Fran’s online obituary and leave condolences for the family, please visit www.griecofunerals.com.

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ESTATE NOTICE

ESTATE OF DONN KEVIN

BIRDSALL, DECEASED. Late of Oxford Borough, Chester County, PA, LETTERS TESTAMENTARY on the above Estate have been granted to the undersigned, who request all persons having claims or demands against the estate of the decedent to make known the same and all persons indebted to the decedent to make payment without delay to KRISTI ANN EISENBERG, EXECUTRIX, 1163 Kensington Ln., Apt. 2112, Oxford, PA 19363, Or to her Attorney: KRISTEN R. MATTHEWS, KRISTEN MATTHEWS LAW, 14 E. Welsh Pool Rd., Exton, PA 19341 4p-30-3t

ESTATE NOTICE

ESTATE OF Annie M. Raser, aka, Annie Marie Raser, late of East Nottingham Township, Chester County, Deceased. Letters Testamentary on the estate of the above-named Annie M. Raser having been granted to the undersigned, all persons having claims or demands against the estate of the said decedent are requested to make known the same and all persons indebted to the said decedent to make payment without delay to: David Raser, Administrator, c/o Attorney: Winifred Moran Sebastian, Esquire, 208 E. Locust Street, P.O. Box 381, Oxford, PA 19363

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ESTATE NOTICE

Letters Testamentary in the Estate of PETER HINKELMAN

(a/k/a Peter G. Hinkelman), deceased, late of Westtown Township, Chester County, Pennsylvania, have been granted to the undersigned. All persons indebted to said Estate are requested to make prompt payment and those having claims to present the same, without delay to: Executor: Linda C. Hinkelman, C/O : Attorney: Charice D. Chait Peckman Chait LLP, 29 Mainland Road, Suite-1, Harleysville, PA 19438

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ESTATE NOTICE

Estate of Michael Joseph Woodward aka Michael Woodward, Deceased late of Easttown Twp. Chester County, PA. Letters Testamentary on the above estate have been granted to the undersigned. All persons having claims against or indebted to the estate should make claims known or forward payment to Kathleen Woodward, Executrix, c/o John R. Lundy, Esq., Lundy Beldecos & Milby, PC, 450 N. Narberth Ave., Suite 200, Narberth, PA 19072.

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INCORPORATION NOTICE

KJR Woodshop Inc. has been incorporated under the provisions of the Pennsylvania Business Corporation Law of 1988, as amended. Christopher L. Nelson, Esquire, Nelson Law Offices, P.C. 5 Prospect Avenue, PO Box 232, West Grove, PA 19390

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ESTATE NOTICE

ESTATE OF Marilyn L. Struzik, late of Oxford Borough, Chester County, Deceased. Letters Testamentary on the estate of the above-named Marilyn L. Struzik having been granted to the undersigned, all persons having claims or demands against the estate of the said decedent are requested to make known the same and all persons indebted to the said decedent to make payment without delay to: Lorie A. Struzik, Executrix, c/o Attorney: Winifred Moran Sebastian, Esquire, 208 E. Locust Street P.O. Box 381, Oxford, PA 19363 Phone: 610-932-3838 4p-7-3t

Sheriff Sale of Real Estate

By virtue of the within mentioned writs directed to Sheriff Kevin D. Dykes, the herein-described real estate will be sold at public online auction via Bid4Assets, by accessing URL www.bid4assets. com/chestercopasheriffsales, on Thursday, May 15 th, 2025 at 11AM. Notice is given to all parties in interest and claimants that the Sheriff will file with the Prothonotary and in the Sheriff’s Office, both located in the Chester County Justice Center, 201 W Market Street, West Chester, Pennsylvania, Schedules of Distribution on Monday, June 16 th, 2025. Distribution will be made in accordance with the Schedules unless exceptions are filed in the Sheriff’s Office within ten (10) days thereafter.

Sale No. 25-5-121

Writ of Execution No. 2023-09066

DEBT $437,209.50

ALL THAT CERTAIN lot or piece of ground, with Improvements erected thereon, situate in the Township of New Garden, County of Chester and Commonwealth of Pennsylvania as shown on Subdivision Plan for Candlewyck at New Garden (PIA Tract) prepared for Orleans Corporation by Nave, Newell and Stampfl, Ltd dated April 26, 2000 and recorded June 14, 2001 in Plan No. 15798, bounded and described as follows, to wit:

BEGINNING at a point in the dividing line between Lot 25 and Lot 24, said point being located on the Westerly right of way line of Honey Locust Drive and continuing from said beginning point the four following courses and distances: (1) South 84 degrees 52 minutes 15 seconds West the distance of 150.00 feet to a point thence (2) North 5 degrees 7 minutes 45 seconds West the distance of 100.00 feet to a point thence (3) North 84 degrees 52 minutes 15 seconds East the distance of 150.00 feet to a point on the Westerly right of way line of Honey Locust Drive; thence (4) in the line of Honey Locust Drive South 5 degrees 7 minutes 45 seconds East the distance of 100.00 feet to the first mentioned point and place of Beginning.

BEING Lot 24, as shown on said plan.

BEING the same premises which Bindu Varghese, by deed

dated November 16, 2021 and recorded January 3, 2022 at Instrument No. 11896907 in the Office of the Recorder of Deeds of Chester County, PA, granted and conveyed unto Keeohn Small, in fee.

Tax Parcel # 60-04-0020.040

PLAINTIFF: U.S. Bank Trust Company, National Association, not in its individual capacity, but solely as trustee on behalf of NFMP Trust, Series 2023-C VS DEFENDANT: Keeohn J. Small a/k/a Keeohn Small

SALE ADDRESS: 219 Honey Locust Drive, Avondale, PA 19311

PLAINTIFF ATTORNEY: LOGS LEGAL GROUP LLP 610-2786800

N.B. Ten percent (10%) of the purchase money must be paid at the time of the on-line sale. Payment must be made via Bid4Assets. The balance must be paid within twenty-one (21) days from the date of sale via Bid4Assets.Writ of Execution No. 2023-09066 DEBT $437,209.50 4p-23-3t

Sheriff Sale of Real Estate

By virtue of the within mentioned writs directed to Sheriff Kevin D. Dykes, the hereindescribed real estate will be sold at public online auction via Bid4Assets, by accessing URL www.bid4assets.com/chestercopasheriffsales, on Thursday, May 15 th, 2025 at 11AM. Notice is given to all parties in interest and claimants that the Sheriff will file with the Prothonotary and in the Sheriff’s Office, both located in the Chester County Justice Center, 201 W Market Street, West Chester, Pennsylvania, Schedules of Distribution on Monday, June 16 th, 2025. Distribution will be made in accordance with the Schedules unless exceptions are filed in the Sheriff’s Office within ten (10) days thereafter.

Sale No. 25-5-129

Writ of Execution No. 2024-08266

DEBT $337,514.45

ALL THAT CERTAIN lot or parcel of land situated in the Township of London Britain, County of Chester, Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, being more fully described in Deed dated April 22, 1994 and recorded in the Office of the Chester County Recorder of Deeds on May 10, 1994, in Deed Book Volume 3753 at Page 927, as Instrument No. 199437344.

Tax Parcel # 73-05-0044.120

PLAINTIFF: Wilmington Trust, National Association, not in its individual capacity, but solely as Owner Trustee for BRAVO Residential Funding Trust 2020RPL2 VS DEFENDANT: Gregory C. Rigg

a/k/a Gregory Rigg and Tamera L Rigg

SALE ADDRESS: 17 Chesterton

Drive, Landenberg, PA 19350

PLAINTIFF ATTORNEY: HLADIK, ONORATO & FEDERMAN, LLP 215-855-9521

N.B. Ten percent (10%) of the purchase money must be paid at the time of the on-line sale. Payment must be made via Bid4Assets. The balance must be paid within twenty-one (21) days from the date of sale via Bid4Assets.

4p-23-3t

Sheriff Sale of Real Estate

By virtue of the within mentioned writs directed to Sheriff Kevin D. Dykes, the hereindescribed real estate will be sold at public online auction via Bid4Assets, by accessing URL www.bid4assets.com/chestercopasheriffsales, on Thursday, May 15 th, 2025 at 11AM. Notice is given to all parties in interest and claimants that the Sheriff will file with the Prothonotary and in the Sheriff’s Office, both located in the Chester County Justice Center, 201 W Market Street, West Chester, Pennsylvania, Schedules of Distribution on Monday, June 16 th, 2025. Distribution will be made in accordance with the Schedules unless exceptions are filed in the Sheriff’s Office within ten (10) days thereafter.

Sale No. 25-5-133

Writ of Execution No. 2022-06479

DEBT $362,627.30

ALL THOSE CERTAIN LOTS OR PIECES OF GROUND SITUATE IN THE TOWNSHIP OF EAST NOTTINGHAM, CHESTER COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA:

Tax Parcel # 69-3-63.12

IMPROVEMENTS thereon: a residential property

PLAINTIFF: LAKEVIEW LOAN SERVICING, LLC, VS DEFENDANT: BENNIE PETTWAY

SALE ADDRESS: 140 Schoolview Lane, Oxford, PA 19363

PLAINTIFF ATTORNEY: ROBERTSON, ANSCHUTZ, SCHNEID, CRANE & PARTNERS, PLLC 855-225-6906

N.B. Ten percent (10%) of the purchase money must be paid at the time of the on-line sale. Payment must be made via Bid4Assets. The balance must be paid within twenty-one (21) days from the date of sale via Bid4Assets

4p-23-3t

Sheriff Sale of Real Estate

By virtue of the within mentioned writs directed to Sheriff Kevin D. Dykes, the hereindescribed real estate will be sold at public online auction via Bid4Assets, by accessing URL www.bid4assets.com/chestercopasheriffsales, on Thursday, May 15 th, 2025 at 11AM. Notice is given to all parties in interest

and claimants that the Sheriff will file with the Prothonotary and in the Sheriff’s Office, both located in the Chester County Justice Center, 201 W Market Street, West Chester, Pennsylvania, Schedules of Distribution on Monday, June 16 th, 2025. Distribution will be made in accordance with the Schedules unless exceptions are filed in the Sheriff’s Office within ten (10) days thereafter.

Sale No. 25-5-136 Writ of Execution No. 2024-09222 DEBT $239,953.06

Property situate in the BOROUGH OF KENNETT SQUARE, CHESTER County, Pennsylvania, being BLR # 0 304 016 000 00

IMPROVEMENTS thereon: a residential dwelling

PLAINTIFF: SANTANDER BANK, N.A. VS DEFENDANT: CHARLES E. THOMPSON III A/K/A CHARLES E. THOMPSON

SALE ADDRESS: 424 S Union Street, Kennett Square, PA 19348

PLAINTIFF ATTORNEY: BROCK & SCOTT, PLLC 844856-6646

N.B. Ten percent (10%) of the purchase money must be paid at the time of the on-line sale. Payment must be made via Bid4Assets. The balance must be paid within twenty-one (21) days from the date of sale via Bid4Assets.Writ of Execution No. 2023-09066 DEBT $437,209.50 4p-23-3t

Sheriff Sale of Real Estate

By virtue of the within mentioned writs directed to Sheriff Kevin D. Dykes, the hereindescribed real estate will be sold at public online auction via Bid4Assets, by accessing URL www.bid4assets.com/chestercopasheriffsales, on Thursday, May 15 th, 2025 at 11AM. Notice is given to all parties in interest and claimants that the Sheriff will file with the Prothonotary and in the Sheriff’s Office, both located in the Chester County Justice Center, 201 W Market Street, West Chester, Pennsylvania, Schedules of Distribution on Monday, June 16 th, 2025. Distribution will be made in accordance with the Schedules unless exceptions are filed in the Sheriff’s Office within ten (10) days thereafter.

Sale 25-5-138

Writ of Execution No. 2024-04460 DEBT $354,868.01

Property to be sold is situated in Kennett Township, County of Chester and Commonwealth of Pennsylvania: Tax Parcel # 6205 02880000

PLAINTIFF: U.S. Bank Trust National Association, as Trustee of Treehouse Series V Trust VS

DEFENDANT: Susan E. Schwartz, James C. Schwartz

SALE ADDRESS: 202 Balmoral Circle, Chadds Ford, PA 19317

PLAINTIFF ATTORNEY: FRIEDMAN VARTOLO LLP, 212-471-5100

N.B. Ten percent (10%) of the purchase money must be paid at the time of the on-line sale. Payment must be made via Bid4Assets. The balance must be paid within twenty-one (21) days from the date of sale via Bid4Assets.Writ of Execution No. 2023-09066 DEBT $437,209.50 4p-23-3t

Sheriff Sale of Real Estate By virtue of the within mentioned writs directed to Sheriff Kevin D. Dykes, the hereindescribed real estate will be sold at public online auction via Bid4Assets, by accessing URL www.bid4assets.com/chestercopasheriffsales, on Thursday, May 15 th, 2025 at 11AM. Notice is given to all parties in interest and claimants that the Sheriff will file with the Prothonotary and in the Sheriff’s Office, both located in the Chester County Justice Center, 201 W Market Street, West Chester, Pennsylvania, Schedules of Distribution on Monday, June 16 th, 2025. Distribution will be made in accordance with the Schedules unless exceptions are filed in the Sheriff’s Office within ten (10) days thereafter.

Sale No.25-5-146 Writ of Execution No. 2024-02283 DEBT $147,910.53

Property situate in the TOWNSHIP OF LONDON GROVE, CHESTER County, Pennsylvania, being BLR # 59-11-41

IMPROVEMENTS thereon: a residential dwelling PLAINTIFF: AMERISAVE MORTGAGE CORPORATION VS DEFENDANT: BENJAMIN J. FULLER

SALE ADDRESS: 545 E. Avondale Road, West Grove, PA 19390

PLAINTIFF ATTORNEY: BROCK & SCOTT, PLLC 844856-6646

N.B. Ten percent (10%) of the purchase money must be paid at the time of the on-line sale. Payment must be made via Bid4Assets. The balance must be paid within twenty-one (21) days from the date of sale via Bid4Assets. 4p-23-3t ANTIQUE: ANTIQUE LOVERS TAKE NOTE! BRIMFIELD IS HERE— ALL SHOWS! May 13-18 New shows open daily! www. brimfieldantiqueweek.com dates: May 13-18, July 9-14, September 2-7.

Chester County Library offering three new career service programs

The Chester County Library is introducing three new career programs held in-person at the library. The first is a mock interview service in which patrons can request an appointment with a volunteer to practice for an upcoming interview. Whether it’s your first time job-seeking or you’re just looking for extra practice, consider setting up an appointment today. The volunteer will conduct the interview like a hiring manager would, so have a prepared resume, dress to impress, and bring questions. The volunteer will also provide written feedback so you can assess and perfect your skills before the big day. If you don’t have a resume, consider

joining the library’s monthly Resume and Job Search Workshop held in partnership with Pennsylvania CareerLink as a hybrid event.

The second new service, which is in partnership with career advisors, is PA CareerLink office hours, held every Tuesday from noon to 3 p.m. in the Reference Department.

Patrons are encouraged to drop-in during this time to speak with a CareerLink representative on what programs and services are available to adults and young adults. Tap into individualized services for access to career counseling, adult training funds, youth incentives, and employer events.

Classifieds/Legals

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Finally, the latest service is a professional headshots event which will take place on May 12 from 10 a.m. to noon in the Struble Room. Whether it’s for a LinkedIn profile or a business website, you’ll want this photo to be the first thing potential employers or customers see when they look you up. After the photo is taken, you will be emailed a digital copy that you can upload to your choice site with the confidence that your professionalism will shine through. Please ensure you have a working email address so that you can

access these photos once they’re sent. This is also a drop-in event, but interested attendees are encouraged to register via the library’s event calendar to ensure their contact information is submitted prior.

The mission of the Chester County and Henrietta Hankin Branch Libraries is to provide informational, educational and cultural services to the residents of Chester County so that they may be lifelong learners. The Chester County Library & District Center is located at 450 Exton Square Parkway in Exton.

DCCC receives $99,925 grant from Chappell Culpeper Family Foundation to support scholarships in health care fields

The Delaware County Community College Educational Foundation has received a one-year, $99,925 grant from the Chapell Culpeper Family Foundation. The grant funding will support scholarships in DCCC’s non-credit medical programs, which provide workforce training in high-demand health care fields.

The funds will be used to offer scholarships for up to 35 students in the

pharmacy technician, multiskilled medical technician and sterile processing technician programs, helping to remove financial barriers and increase access to career-focused education. Additionally, funds will support in-classroom English Language Learner (ELL) tutoring to all noncredit healthcare career program students, providing 24 hours assistance per week combined for all students to help them overcome language barriers and

succeed academically.

“This grant will help the college enhance equity in healthcare education, ensuring students gain critical skills, hands-on training and professional credentials needed for job placement within highdemand occupations that offer life-sustaining wages,” said DCCC vice president of institutional advancement Laura Chisholm, Ed.D., who also serves as executive director of the DCCC Educational Foundation.

“We sincerely appreciate the generosity and partnership of the Chappell Culpeper Foundation.” The Delaware County Community College Educational Foundation is a non-profit organization that provides financial resources for the College’s students, faculty, programs and facilities. To learn more about the Foundation, email advance@dccc.edu or visit dccc.edu/ educational-foundation.