Chester County Press 12-03-2025 Edition

PennDOT virtual presentation to spell out plans for troublesome intersection

By Richard L. Gaw Staff Writer

Over the past several decades, when the topic of severely outdated intersections in southern Chester County becomes the subject of conversation, one such coagulate of streets often appears high on the list, if not at the top of it: the Baltimore PikeNewark Road intersection in Toughkenamon.

Long vilified for its bottleneck of congestion and outdated roads, local residents have levied their concerns to New Garden Township and Kennett Square Borough officials as well as PennDOT for the area’s lack of safety and maneuverability. In short, it has not met the standards of a modern intersection and accumulated a mega list of problems:

• The current intersection contributes to congestion and safety concerns;

• The northbound and southbound sections of Newark Road are offset by about 30 feet at the intersection, creating safety risks and operational inefficiencies;

• The southbound Newark Road approach features a steep downgrade and a sharp reverse curve near the intersection, posing challenges for cars and most especial-

ly heavy vehicles such as 18-wheel trucks that carry heavy amounts of cargo and

Courtesy image PennDOT representatives will be hosting a virtual seminar on Dec. 4 that will provide details of the company’s plans to redevelop the intersection and roadways along Baltimore Pike and Newark Road in Toughkenmon.

Wreaths Across America honors military veterans on Dec. 13

By Betsy Brewer Brantner Contributing Writer

The Oxford Cemetery will once again be one of the locations for Wreaths Across America to lay wreaths on the headstones of military veterans who are laid to rest there.

The cemetery will join the more than 4,900 participating locations across the country to “Remember, Honor and Teach” on Saturday, Dec. 13. Through the guidance of Clarissa Sherrow, Oxford has raised enough funds

to place 1,350 sponsored veterans’ wreaths on the headstones of local heroes who are laid to rest there. This initiative aims to ensure that the individuals who served to protect the freedoms of our country will never be forgotten and to bring the community together in patriotic commemoration. This is the 17th year that the cemetery in Oxford will participate in this national program.

Wreaths Across America started as a simple gesture of thanks that has grown into a national, year-long movement of dedicated

volunteers and communities coming together to not only remember the nation’s fallen and honor their service, but to teach the next generation about the value of freedom.

Anyone can sponsor a veteran’s wreath in honor of or in memory of a loved one who served in the armed forces. Or, you can sponsor and allow volunteers to designate a recipient among the millions of heroes who rest in honored glory.

Volunteers are invited to work with Wreaths Across America to honor the

In response to SNAP cuts,

KACS receives record

numbers of donations

While benefits have resumed after end of government shutdown, contributions are still pouring into

By Richard L. Gaw Staff Writer

ies

1. Immediately, Chester County Commissioners Josh Maxwell, Marian Moskowitz and Eric Roe called for local communities throughout the county to galvanize in a unified call to action: Residents, businesses, and organizations able to give were encouraged to donate food or make financial contributions to local food programs.

How long the shutdown and subsequently, the freeze

on SNAP payments would last was anyone’s guess, but as the days dragged on, courts ruled that withholding SNAP benefits was unlawful and prompted agencies like the USDA to comply with orders to restore funding. Meanwhile, at county food providers like Kennett Area Community Service (KACS), staffers and volunteers addressed the best measures to get food into the hands of low-income families and vulnerable households.

By Chris Barber Contributing Writer

The Jenners Pond Retirement Community has honored resident Rev. Jim Mundell and his late wife, Betty, by naming its renovated health center after them.

The members, staff and guests gathered in the center’s parking lot on Nov. 1 and applauded the support he and Betty made in bringing a new dimension to was what previously just called Preston and Simpson – nursing and assisted living centers.

The sprawling building is now named the Pastor Jim and Betty Mundell Health Center.

The Mundells were described as being the leading fundraisers that brought the center into a more welcoming and home-like atmosphere for those who reside there.

During the outdoor ceremony, executives and board members described how the efforts and contributions

Intersection...

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• The current intersection poses severe transportation issues for the residents of Toughkenamon, whose small businesses and pedestrians are impacted by poor access management.

On Dec. 4 beginning at 7 p.m., the future of the intersection, its tributary roads and its infrastructure will serve as the front and center conversation in a virtual presentation that will be given by representatives from PennDOT, who will discuss plans, timelines and

construction for planned improvements to the intersection, which is scheduled to be placed on the department’s work docket soon. The presentation will also include a question-andanswer period for the public. According to an informational document about the project that is posted on PennDOT’s website, the presentation will provide an overview of the following proposed improvements to the intersection:

• Realigning the northern leg of Newark Road to reduce the reverse curve and better align it with the

southern leg;

• Adding a 500-foot-long left-turn lane on the northern leg;

• Moving the intersection with Baltimore Pike westward to align Newark Road’s northern and southern legs;

• Improving turning radii on all four corners of the intersection for better heavy vehicle maneuverability;

• Widening the southern Newark Road to include a 100-foot-long left-turn and 150-foot-long right-turn lane;

• Widening Baltimore Pike’s western leg to provide a 225-foot-long

left-turn lane;

• Widening Baltimore Pike’s eastern leg to include a 175-foot-long left-turn lane and a 250-foot-long right-turn lane;

• Installing pedestrian facilities such as curb ramps and sidewalks along all four corners and the four legs of the intersection and;

• Installing new traffic signals and street lighting.

In addition, a new stormwater conveyance system and Stormwater Control Measures (SCMs) along Newark Road and Baltimore Pike and within the intersection will be installed, and a

new downstream stormwater conveyance system will be built between Baltimore Pike and Church Street and along Church Street, Center Street and Willow Street to the existing stormwater outfall to the Unnamed Tributary to the West branch of Red Clay Creek.

The project is also projecting to include relocating utility poles, subsurface sewer, gas, and water lines on the northern Newark Road part of the intersection that will be affected by the road widening and realignment. Additional subsurface relocations may be necessary on Baltimore Pike and

the southern Newark Road to accommodate drainage infrastructure.

The virtual public meeting will be held on Dec. 4 beginning at 7 p.m., and will be accessible by visiting https://bit.ly/485A5iw.

To learn more about the project, visit the dedicated PennDOT website at https://bit.ly/48fuAOh, or visit the New Garden website at www.newgarden. org and access “PennDOT Virtual Public Meeting –12/4” under “Latest News.”

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

With only a few social media posts alerting the local community to the need for more donations, their response was immediate and slightly overwhelming. Within days of the shutdown, Cedar Street in Kennett Square – where KACS is located – became a log jam of vehicles donating cartons of rice, dried beans and cereal, and providing monetary contributions to the Food Cupboard. To accommodate the crush of donations, KACS added additional volunteer shifts to help sort the materials. The agency is also storing its overflow on the lower level of the New Garden Township Building.

“It was exciting to see the community response, because it gave us the peace of mind of knowing that we would have the resources that we would need,” said KACS Food Cupboard Director Loren Lynch, who with the help of volunteers and other staffers provide distribution of food and household items to 3,500 people a month. “I knew that I would not have to scramble to the grocery store or run out of food over the holidays.

“KACS has been here for 70 years and become a fixture in southern Chester County, and when people saw that food insecurity would be an issue, they knew right away where to go.”

Record-setting month

Mundell...

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of the Mundells resulted in the building being more open to the outside. The atmosphere is also more family-like.

Simpson Board Chair Meredith Okenquist said she was particularly impressed with how the architecture had increased the size of the windows –among other things – so the residents had a greater connection to the environment and less of a feeling of being enclosed in a medical facility or separated from the other residents.

Mundell, who took the microphone at the con-

For the one-month period of Oct. 15 to Nov. 15, KACS received 42,500 pounds of food donations, twice the weight of what it received during that same time period in 2024.

“The news that SNAP benefit payments would be downsized was so prevalent, and each media source was telling their readers and viewers to offer their time, their money and contributions of household items,” KACS CEO Julie Bensen said. “We immediately started to get significantly more phone calls asking how they could help. We saw an influx of people wanting to volunteer at the Food Cupboard. We heard from people who called asking us how they could begin a local food drive. We also saw an increase in financial donations.”

As KACS gears up for its Christmas season donation period – which will ensure that 935 families and seniors will receive groceries for their holiday meals, including chicken, turkey and pork from local partners - there are no signs that the number of community donations are decreasing.

During the weekend of November 15-16, KACS saw the largest number of donations it had ever received over a weekend

‘We are honored to be a part of a community that cares so much for others’

In a year of great transition – the naming of Bensen as its new CEO and taking

clusion, said he follows the belief that no season of life is “outside God’s providence.” Also addressing the audience was State Rep. John Lawrence, R-13, of West Grove. He said that in his years growing up in southern Chester County, he could not have imagined the growth that was about to take place in the area, including a shopping center that had a McDonald’s and a senior community like Jenners Pond.

Jim Mundell is the chaplain at Jenners Pond and the associate pastor at West Grove United Methodist Church.

steps to move the agency to a new location – KACS continues to cling to its principal mission of connecting its neighbors in need with food, shelter and a path forward. The recent record number of contributions to its Food Cupboard reflects that dedication, Bensen said.

“I think what we have witnessed over the last four weeks – the generosity of this community - demonstrates how much support there is from everyone to support their neighbors,” she said. “Without any major advocacy or asks directly from KACS, the people saw the need, connected that need to people down the street and reached out to us. It is an honor to be a part of this team knowing that there is so much respect for and belief in what we do, and who we’re doing it for.

“We are honored to be a part of a community that cares so much about others.”

“We live in a community that recognizes need,” said KACS’ Communications & Engagement Director Kecia Crowl. “As much as you never want to see anyone go hungry or even become scared that they won’t get the food because benefits are not coming through, our community’s response is evidence that they recognize that greater need. I just hope that those for whom we have received recent attention recognize that come January, that this need will still be there.”

Chester County residents who need food assistance can reach Kennett Area Community Service at (610)

925-3556, or visit www. kacsimpact.org, or access the Chester County Food Bank’s website at www.

chestercountyfoodbank.org.

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

Wreaths Across America...

Continued from Page 1A or another. Check your family tree to learn more about who the veterans are in your own family.

veterans throughout the year. From laying wreaths locally to leading a sponsorship group or coordinating a ceremony location, there are many ways to get involved.

It’s a great opportunity to invite your network of friends, family, coworkers and organizations to join as Wreaths Across America strives to honor every veteran. As the scope of the mission grows, so too does the need for support. Help is always needed to spread the word.

Almost every family has a veteran in the family tree that has fought for freedom at one time

“We are forever grateful for the supporters who dedicate their time, energy and resources to fulfilling our mission all year long,” said a Wreaths Across America spokesperson. Those interested in volunteering for Wreaths Across America or sponsoring a wreath for Oxford are invited to visit www.wreathsacrossamerica.org/PA025 to learn more or they can contact Clarissa Sherrow, 484-645-4513 or e-mail csherrow@zoominternet. net.

National Wreaths Across America Day is a free community event open to all people.

Chester County government appoints Fleck Eckert Klein McGarry to lead independent investigation into Election Day poll book issue

Chester County government CEO David Byerman recently announced the appointment of West Chester-based law firm Fleck Eckert Klein McGarry, LLC (FEKM) to conduct an independent investigation into the Nov. 4 Election Day poll book issue that omitted the names of more than 75,000 thirdparty registered voters in the county.

The omission of third-party voters from poll books at all 230 Chester County polling places resulted in 12,600 provisional ballots being cast by voters whose names did not appear in the poll book. Affected voters included those registered as Independent, Libertarian, Green Party, Non-Partisan, and No Affiliation.

Ten firms were invited to submit proposals in response to an independent investigation scope of work, prepared by Chester County’s senior administrative team. Fleck Eckert Klein McGarry, LLC was selected based on its experience in complex investigations, its knowledge of electionrelated legal issues, and its independence from Chester County government.

The investigation announcement follows a hearing at which approximately 1,400 provi-

sional ballots that had been set aside for review were adjudicated by the Chester County Board of Elections.

“Today’s hearing marked an important first step toward restoring trust in Chester County’s democratic process,” Byerman said.

“This investigation will be a critical next step.

“We deeply regret the errors that occurred on and before Election Day, and through this review we commit to identifying the root causes of the problem and ensuring that it does not happen again.”

Scope and objectives of the investigation

The independent investigation will focus on five key questions:

• What was the root cause of the production of incomplete poll books that led to the omission of third-party voters?

• What processes and controls were in place in the Department of Voter Services to ensure poll book accuracy?

• How and why did those processes fail? Were the processes and controls insufficient, or were they not properly followed?

• What other factors contributed to the failure or impeded Voter Services

staff from identifying or reporting concerns?

• What caused the significant delays on Election Day as the county worked to mitigate the issue, and why weren’t supplemental poll books delivered to some polling places in a more timely manner?

FEKM will interview key county personnel involved in poll book preparation, review, and distribution, and will evaluate internal controls and communication channels within the Department of Voter Services. Based on this work, the firm will identify the primary causes and contributing factors of the poll book error, distinguish between human error and systemic deficiencies, and recommend improvements to oversight, accountability, and transparency in election operations.

FEKM will begin preliminary work immediately. Formal interviews and review of all relevant materials, including evidence and notes, will follow. The firm will prepare and deliver a written report summarizing findings, conclusions, and recommendations by Dec. 19, followed by a public presentation at a Chester County Board of Elections meeting in midto-late January of 2026. This

meeting will be scheduled in the evening to encourage public attendance and participation.

The contract with FEKM will be a “not to exceed” contract with a $35,000 maximum expenditure.

Chester County Election Day poll book error

Shortly after polls opened at 7:00 a.m. on Election Day, Chester County Voter Services identified a prob-

lem with the poll books used across all 230 precincts. The issue caused the omission of 75,076 third-party registered voters—out of the county’s 385,856 total registered voters. Affected voters included those registered as Independent, Libertarian, “No Affiliation,” or “Non-Partisan.”

Chester County Voter Services directed Judges of Elections to follow standard procedure – pro-

viding provisional ballots to third-party voters until supplemental poll books containing their names could be delivered to each precinct. Later that day, the county announced judicial approval to extend voting hours at all polling locations, from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m.

More than 12,600 provisional ballots were cast in Chester County on Election Day, the majority resulting from the poll book error.

ACE plans annual holiday gift collection for this Saturday

The Annual Holiday Gift Collection of ACE Anti-Human Trafficking Alliance of Oxford will be held on Saturday, Dec. 6, between 9 a.m. and 10 a.m. at the Oxford Senior Center.

Items needed for vulnerable women and children are gloves, hats, socks, shawls, personal hygiene items, paper towels and

napkins, toilette & facial tissue, anti-bacterial wipes, individually packaged snacks, Walmart gift cards, journals, pens, pencils, hand warmers, small prizes for games, and household cleaning supplies (all items must be new).

Collected gifts will be distributed to transitional homes for women (Thistle Hills, Oaks Ministry), and

local organizations who care for those in need. There is no scheduled speaker, all hands will be helping with sorting and packing. Coffee and goodies will be served at 9 a.m. Questions may be directed to 610-932-0337.

The Oxford Senior Center is located at 12 East Locust Street in Oxford.

Avon Grove School District unveils 2,000-square-foot makerspace

The student-designed innovation lab brings real-world making to state-of-the-art

Avon Grove School District announced the official opening of the Avon Grove Makerspace at Avon Grove High School on Nov. 11. Designed and driven by students, the makerspace is a hands-on innovation lab where imagination meets real-world making — supporting coursework and creativity across science, computer science, art, and career-and-technical programs. The makerspace concept

was led by four students from the school’s chief science officers chapter — Dylan Adams, Aarnav Behari, Mia Fish, and Samantha Lin. After more than a year of planning and community input, the project opened its doors to students.

“Avon Grove High School’s new makerspace stands out as one of the region’s most comprehensive and uniquely student-designed innovation spaces—created

The 2,000-square-foot

learning across disciplines.

by students, for students,” said Dr. Scott DeShong, Avon Grove School district superintendent.

A student-led vision

This is one of the first student-designed makerspaces in Chester County. Chief science officers were given the freedom to design the space and they quickly organized a community-wide design contest. The contest drew over 50 design submissions from alumni, faculty, students, and community members.

campus

The 2,000-square-foot makerspace is equipped with industry-grade technology to support creativity, engineering, and hands-on learning across disciplines. Funded in part by the Avon Grove Education Foundation, the space features a 17-foot video wall that anchors instructional demonstrations and collaborative work. Students have access to advanced fabrication tools including a waterjet cutter and a vinyl printer, expanding opportunities for precision design and production.

A fleet of 3D printers enables rapid prototyping, while virtual reality computers offer immersive

environments for exploration, design, and simulation. The room also includes high-performance Esports computers, supporting both competitive gaming and high-level computing needs for engineering and multimedia projects. The makerspace’s mod-

ern, flexible layout is designed for collaboration, experimentation, and project-based learning making it one of the region’s most advanced studentdriven creative learning environments. To learn more, visit www. avongrove.org.

Pocopson Home once again named to Newsweek’s list of America’s Best Nursing Homes

Ranking places Chester County facility among top 8 percent of nursing homes nationwide

Chester County’s Pocopson Home has once again been recognized among the nation’s top nursing facilities, earning a place on Newsweek and Statista’s list of America’s Best Nursing Homes for 2026.

The annual ranking honors the top 1,200 nursing homes in the United States based on performance data, peer recommendations, accreditations, and resident satisfaction. Pocopson Home’s inclusion places it in the top eight percent of nearly 15,000 nursing homes serving approximately 1.2 million residents nationwide.

Chester County Commissioners praised the facility’s staff and leadership for their continued excellence and dedication to residents’ care.

“This national recogni-

tion reaffirms what we already know — the team at Pocopson Home provides outstanding care with compassion and commitment every single day,” said Chester County Commissioners’ Chair Josh Maxwell. “There’s no greater measure of success than how well long-term care staff look after their residents.”

“This honor goes to the maintenance and housekeeping staff, the nurses and aides, and the administrative staff, because each one of them makes the lives of Pocopson Home’s residents better,” added Commissioner Marian Moskowitz.

Commissioner Eric Roe noted, “Credit for this recognition also goes to Pocopson’s administrator, Jackie McKenna and her

leadership team for their professionalism, kindness, and expert navigation of long-term care policies and practices. Pocopson Home fosters a culture of excellence and commitment to care that always puts the individual first.”

Pocopson Home provides 24-hour long-term nursing care, short-term rehabilitation, and specialized programs, including respite and hospice care for individuals recovering from hospitalization or requiring skilled nursing support.

This year’s America’s Best Nursing Homes evaluation introduced vaccination rates as a new quality measure and expanded both the number of states reviewed and the facilities recognized. Rankings are determined using data from the U.S.

Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), national surveys of medical professionals and nursing home managers, accreditations, and resident satisfaction scores.

“To again be recognized as

one of America’s best nursing homes is a true honor that speaks to the entire Pocopson community — not just the full team, but also the Home’s volunteers and community partners,” said Chester County CEO David

Byerman. “Because of them, Pocopson Homes’ residents receive the very best care every day.”

The full 2026 rankings can be viewed at: newsweek. com/rankings/americasbest-nursing-homes-2026.

Longwood Gardens names Ann C. Rose as board chair, welcomes two new trustees

Longwood Gardens announced the appointment of Logan S. Herring, Sr., Chief Executive Officer of The WRK Group, and Maria Alvarez Mann, global technology executive and management consultant, to its Board of Trustees.

Longwood Gardens also announced that Ann C. Rose has been named Chair of the Board of Trustees, succeeding Jane G. Pepper, who concluded a decade of distinguished leadership.

“We are delighted to welcome Logan and Maria to Longwood’s Board of Trustees,” said Rose “Each brings exceptional expertise and insight that will strengthen our governance and help advance Longwood’s mission—to inspire all through the beauty of nature, conservation, and learning.”

Paul B. Redman, President and Chief Executive Officer of Longwood Gardens, added, “Logan’s transformative leadership in community development and Maria’s visionary approach to global technology will be invaluable as we continue to shape Longwood’s future and deepen our impact.”

As the Chief Executive Officer of The WRK Group, which encompasses The Warehouse, REACH Riverside, and Kingswood Community Center, Herring has been a driving force behind the revitalization of Wilmington, Delaware’s Riverside neighborhood. Beginning his work there in 2016 as Executive Director of Kingswood Community Center, Herring recognized the need for long-term

investment and collaboration to uplift the community. In 2018, he founded The WRK Group to lead this transformation through integrated initiatives in housing, education, health, and economic mobility. Today, the organization employs more than 80 staff members and invests over $15 million annually to empower Riverside residents. Herring serves on numerous boards, including the Delaware State Chamber of Commerce, Christiana Care Health System, and the Delaware Business Roundtable Executive Committee. His leadership has earned him recognition as CEO of the Year and among the Most Impactful Leaders in the First State by Delaware Business Times. He holds a Bachelor of Arts

in Business Management from Goucher College and a Certificate in Nonprofit Leadership from Boston College.

A seasoned global technology executive, Mann has held senior leadership positions across the banking, finance, and manufacturing industries. Her roles as Chief Information Officer, Chief Technology Officer, and Chief Data Officer at organizations including JPMorgan Chase, USAA, and DST/ SS&C have positioned her as a leader in large-scale technology transformation, mergers and acquisitions, and regulatory compliance.

In 2022, Mann founded a management consulting practice specializing in IT strategy and digital modernization, advising clients on data and cloud trans-

formations, cybersecurity integration, and post-merger technology alignment. She also serves as a Board Director for Abyro Capital and advises ReKnew.ai on climate-focused technology solutions.

Throughout her career, Mann has championed diversity in technology, establishing initiatives to advance women, Hispanic professionals, and veterans in leadership roles. She earned a bachelor of science in computer science from West Virginia University and has been recognized with numerous honors, including CIO of the Year by the Latinos in Information Science and Technology Association (LISTA), the YMCA Leadership Award, and inclusion in CIO Magazine’s Top 100 IT

Professionals. Rose has served on Longwood’s Board of Trustees since 2001. An active leader in the community, Rose also serves as a director of Brown Advisory Trust Company of Delaware, LLC, is the vice president of the board for the Hagley Museum and Library, and is vice president of the board at Mt. Cuba Center. Pepper joined the Longwood Board in 2005 and was elected Chair in 2015. She will continue to serve as a member of the Board of Trustees. With these appointments, Longwood Gardens reaffirms its commitment to strong governance, community partnership, and a bold vision for the future of the Gardens and its impact.

In Chrissy’s mailbox

On June 26, 2023, Sarah Beckstrom enlisted in the West Virginia National Guard and began serving with the 863rd Military Police Company’s 11th Brigade.

On November 26, 20-year-old Beckstrom, stationed in Washington, D.C. since August as part of the D.C. Safe and Beautiful Mission, joined up with her colleague, 24-year-old Air Force Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe, near the Farragut Square Metro Station. At about 2:15 p.m., 29-year-old Rahmanullah Lakanwal, an Afghan national who entered the U.S. in 2021 under a Biden-era initiative known as Operation Allies Welcome - and had previously worked for the U.S. government and the CIA - carried out an “ambush-style,” calculated attack, killing Beckstrom and severely wounding Wolfe while brandishing a .357 Smith & Wesson revolver.

Lakanwal, who lives in Washington state with his wife and five children, was wounded during the shooting and taken to the hospital. He faces at least one first-degree murder charge.

Almost immediately, sentiments were expressed worldwide for the horrific tragedy that killed Beckstrom, who was lauded by the West Virginia National Guard as a hero. On Nov. 26 at 4:48 p.m., U.S. Rep. Chrissy Houlahan – Chester County’s representative in the U.S. House of Representatives - posted the following message on her Facebook page:

“My thoughts are with the members of the West Virginia National Guard who were shot this afternoon in Washington, D.C.

“I am grateful to the first responders on the scene, who apprehended the suspect and prevented more violence from breaking out.”

Houlahan’s post, to the surprise of very few, has received 618 comments related to her comments as this newspaper went to press. Most of the comments were civil, expressing equal condolences and heartbreak over the Washington, D.C. killing of Beckstrom and wounding of Wolfe. Others, however, used their posts to verbally bludgeon Houlahan, connecting her recent post – developed with five other lawmakers – that called for the U.S. military personnel to disobey illegal orders to the killing, and holding Houlahan and her colleagues personally responsible:

“Dem rhetoric absolutely inspires this,” began one post. “Deep in your heart, you absolutely know this.”

“The pot stirrer needs to clam up,” one post read.

“You incite hatred and violence!” read another post.

Similar sentiments went on through a seemingly endless scroll:

“Don’t play victim to circumstances you created.”

“U are part of the Seditious 6, Advising, urging, or in any manner causing or attempting to cause insubordination, disloyalty, mutiny or refusal of duty by any member of the military or naval forces of the United States! U are attempting to undermine The Chain of Command and ur actions give rise to Terrorist Attacks like happened in DC today!”

“You actually put a target on their back. Someone listened to your words and took action.”

“Were you able to wash the blood off your hands from the National Guardsmen who were shot by an Afghan illegal?”

“This is what happens when you say stupid stuff lady... actions have consequences...”

In truth, as the investigation continues to unfold, Lakanwal’s shooting of Beckstrom and Wolfe had no ties to the video made by Houlahan and her fellow officials but was the horrible aftermath of his severe mental illness, but no matter – the invented truth always reads better. Over the last week, both the Biden and Trump administrations have tossed blame for the shooting on either side, as officials question the thoroughness of initial screening under Operation Allies Welcome that allowed Rahmanullah Lakanwal to seek asylum in the U.S.

There is little reason to be surprised at the visceral attacks levied against Houlahan and the superficial blood on her hands placed there by her accusers. At the exact time human civility and basic decency should be the norm – with carefully chosen words of sentiment and condolences – the killing of Sarah Beckstrom has become the latest gunpowder in our American discourse, instead of its latest tragedy.

Social media has become the birth mother for an entirely new society unmoored by rules and regulations governing decorum, and where the gunpowder of our national conversation is sweet to the smell and pungent with the reality of our actions.

The horrible murder of a 20-year-old woman on the streets of our nation’s capitol should be treated with respect, in the same tenor contained in Chrissy Houlahan’s message on Nov. 26.

Sadly, such respect is now a perishable and vanishing subsidiary of who we once were, and we are now left to witness our nation continue to sink slowly and fortuitously into the abyss of who we have become.

The Commonwealth’s DCED needs to stop pursuing Chester Water Authority’s ratepayers as a revenue stream

By Noël Brandon, Chairperson of Chester Water Authority

As chair of the Chester Water Authority (CWA), it is imperative that I communicate to residents of our service area what the Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) does not want you to know.

The CWA is not a department or asset of any municipality that is ripe for monetization, sale, liquidation or acquisition. It is an independent authority established under Act 73 and governed by a ninemember board. This board is deliberately structured to reflect the regional nature of CWA’s service area: three members are appointed by the City of Chester, three by Chester County, and

three by Delaware County. Act 73 creates boards appointed by multiple jurisdictions to prevent any single municipality from dominating decisions that affect a regional service and residents’ access to safe, reliable, and affordable water or wastewater service. It also guards against attempts to commandeer and use the revenues of a well-run water or sewer authority to finance a single municipality’s unrelated financial problems, or fund any other conceivable dilemma that might be faced by a municipal member of an Act 73 authority. The Act 73 municipal authority structure embodies visionary and legislative action that was duly enacted by a unanimous vote of the Commonwealth’s lawmakers. The law ensured that all

‘Growing

major constituencies with a stake in a water or sewer system’s operational health and existence have a seat at the table. It exists, above all, to shield a vital health resource from any harm.

For over five years, the Commonwealth’s DCED has been spending millions of dollars on an attack on CWA aimed at forcing ratepayers into becoming the funding source, or in other words, collateral damage in the City of Chester’s longrunning fiscal struggles. Any move to monetize the Authority for a single locality’s benefit would subvert Act 73’s unanimously adopted governance model. It would trade short-sighted political expediency for long-term regional stability, public health, and fairness to CWA’s 200,000+ customers, 80% of whom live

outside the City. Further, any such funding is essentially a perpetual backdoor tax on all CWA ratepayers, which may well be unconstitutional in Pennsylvania. This context makes it even more critical that proposals like DCED’s current funding of efforts affecting residents in CWA’s service area—and DCED Secretary Rick Siger’s request for a two-year extension of the City of Chester’s receivership—be subjected to rigorous public court review, including a transparent accounting of audits, fiscal performance, and the potential impacts on all ratepayers. CWA’s ratepayers have made it known that what the DCED is doing is simply wrong and unfair and they need to stop and develop a better solution to help the City of Chester.

a nation’ is theme for 2026 Pennsylvania Farm Show

The Farm Show will officially kick off a year of America250PA celebrations recognizing Pennsylvania’s leading role in our nation’s founding and future

Pennsylvania Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding announced the 2026 Pennsylvania Farm Show theme, “Growing a Nation” at historic Wyck House Farm and Garden in Philadelphia. The 2026 Farm Show — Pennsylvania’s State Fair— will kick off a year of America250PA special events and celebrations bringing millions of visitors to the Commonwealth recognizing Pennsylvania’s leading role in the founding of our American democracy.

“America was born in Pennsylvania, with its identity deeply rooted in agriculture,” said Redding.

“Two hundred and fifty years later, Pennsylvania agriculture is still leading our nation, supplying the economic power, ingenuity, and innovation that is growing our nation’s future. Farm Show celebrates the outstanding products and people who make up our powerhouse agriculture and food industry, supporting 600,000 jobs pouring more than $132.5 billion into our state economy, including exports of more than $4 billion in agriculture and forest products — not only keeping our heritage alive, but supplying innovative solutions to our nation’s greatest challenges.

“The Shapiro Administration is proud to support Pennsylvania agriculture and the innovative, tenacious Pennsylvanians who are growing a vibrant tomorrow for our Commonwealth and our nation,” he continued.

Wyck House Farm and Garden uniquely bridges the past and future of

American agriculture. As one of the oldest urban farms in the country — continuously cultivated for over 300 years — Wyck stands as a living example of how agriculture has shaped communities, sustained families, and rooted American values in the soil of our cities and towns. Its legacy makes it the ideal backdrop for revealing a theme that connects generations of growers to the broader American story.

“For 300 years, residents of Wyck have used the land to nurture and nourish themselves and their community,” said Wyck executive director Kim Staub. “Today, we use the past as inspiration for the present, sharing a harvest that puts food on the table and strengthens connections in our urban neighborhood.”

The Pennsylvania Commission for the United States Semiquincentennial (America250PA) was established by the Commonwealth in 2018 to plan, encourage, develop and coordinate the commemoration of the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States. One of the original 13 colonies — and home to the signing of both the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution — Pennsylvania holds a uniquely pivotal role in the nation’s founding and future.

“America250PA is proud to partner with the largest indoor agricultural exposition in the nation,” said America250PA executive director Cassandra Coleman.

The 2026 event will run

from Saturday, Jan. 10 through Saturday, Jan. 17 at the Pennsylvania Farm Show Complex and Expo Center in Harrisburg. The 2026 Farm Show will feature fan-favorites like the 1,000-pound butter sculpture, delicious Farm Show Food Court, thousands of competitive agricultural events, homegrown celebrity cooking demonstrations at the PA Preferred Culinary Connection, and more than one million square-feet of hands-on agriculture education opportunities and chances to engage with the people who are growing Pennsylvania and our

nation through agriculture. To stay up to date on Pennsylvania Farm Show news, visit farmshow.pa.gov or follow the Pennsylvania Farm Show on Facebook and Instagram. Since taking office in 2023, Gov. Josh Shapiro’s bipartisan budgets have invested in Pennsylvania’s national legacy as a leader in agriculture. He has signed a budget for 2025-26 that continues to foster innovation, protect the industry, and continue to support Pennsylvania agriculture’s competitive edge on the national and international front.

Santa Train delights children and rail fans along the East Penn corridor

By Chris Barber Contributing Writer

Santa Claus gave his reindeer some time off last week, as he temporarily replaced them with a train to travel through southern Chester County, kicking off the Yuletide season for local residents.

On Saturday, Nov. 29, the East Penn Railroad Santa Train ran from Oxford to the Kennett Square Creamery, attracting hundreds of fans and receiving donated toys for distribution to children in need.

The event, which was

conceived by and continues to be led by Avondale

Mayor Susan Rzucidlo, brings the train to stops in West Grove, Avondale, Toughkenamon and the Kennett Square train station in addition to its origin and destination.

Unlike some Christmastime train rides that charge admission or invite riders to dine on board, this train is free to all and Santa steps off to shake hands and pose with anyone who visits at the stops.

The Santa Train started three years ago, when Santa first hopped aboard

the recognizable East Penn Railroad engine and greeted children at all stops along the route. While it was a new event for the area, it still drew hundreds of patrons who shared their enthusiasm and snapped photos.

Since then, the spirit has remained high, but there have been some changes including the addition of Oxford to the route.

Another new development is that the engine has a striking new look this year. Its red, white and blue makeover to celebrate the America250 anniversary made its debut in June. This engine was also parked in the Kennett Square Station over the July 4 weekend for display, but in the meantime has been tucked away most of the time.

Saturday was the first view of the colorful vehicle

Grove.

for many people, and they responded with lots of photo-taking and social media posting.

So impressive is its

appearance that it was even featured in national railroad publications.

Another innovation was the restored caboose that trailed along at the rear for the first time. It carried Santa Representative Paul Morgan and the East Penn crew.

For years, the caboose sat in the yard beside the rail station looking dilapidated and useless and marked with graffiti and decay.

This year, Trainmaster Randy Miller took on the challenging job of bringing it back to life for the Yuletide event. He did the work in about three weeks.

Traveling between the striking new engine and

‘If we play good defense, we will be in ballgames this season’

Kennett

By Richard L. Gaw Staff Writer

No matter the level or gathered proclivity of skill an athletic team has, its opening game of the season often serves as a first glimpse into the crystal ball of its future fortunes.

For the Kennett High School girls’ varsity basketball team – all underclassmen – their 50-30 loss to visiting Boyertown on Nov. 29 provided several such glimpses into what is likely to work for the young team this season and what needs improvement on both sides of the floor.

caboose was the addition of an orange boxcar. It was the collection destination for all the donations to the Marines Toys for Tots. Those who helped load and count the donations reported hundreds of toys that they hoisted into the car. In West Grove, Avon Grove Library director David Payne enhanced the community event with refreshments, model trains and the offering of a warm waiting area for visitors. Yuletide celebrations continue throughout southern Chester County with events from other organizations taking place during the holiday season.

girls fall to Boyertown, 50-30, in season hoops debut

With the support of two three-point corner jumpers from Laki Frazier midway through the first quarter, the Blue Demons stayed close to the Bears, while Dahlia Winter held high-scorer Rhian Harper to just two free throws. As the second quarter began, however, Kennett’s poor passing led to turnovers and opposing buckets, starting with a coast-to-coast layup by Chloe Engler that jumped Boyertown out to a 15-10 lead early in the quarter.

Engler’s basket was followed by an inside shot by Samirah Marshall that jumped the Bears’ lead to

17-10 and forced a Kennett timeout with 5:47 remaining in the first half.

While a layup by Ellie Harper put Kennett on the board in the second quarter with 3:47 remaining, they were the team’s only points in the quarter, while on the other end, Boyertown –behind floor general guard Engler - banged home 19 points that sent them into halftime with a commanding 30-12 lead. If there was any quarter that gave Kennett Head Coach Scott Whiteside insight into his team’s upcoming campaign, it was their defensive play in

the third quarter, that held Boyertown to just four points, while on the offensive side, the Blue Demons made a cursory threat with a nine-point quarter that gave hints of a comeback. As the last quarter began, however, Boyertown added to its 13-point lead on baskets by Engler, Harper, Marshall and Alexia Shimukones.

“On the offensive end, we need to cut down on our turnovers and make the simple play instead of the hard play, but I saw some of our leaders step up and be more aggressive in taking it to the hoop,” said Whiteside, who pointed to

Frazier and Harper as the teams’ two most prominent offensive targets heading into the new season. “On the defensive end, Dahlia Winter played a physical game against their opposing center (Rhian Harper).”

While it is certain that Kennett’s youth will serve as its key disadvantage during the 2025-26 season – there are no seniors on the team – Whiteside provided an important disclaimer that the twin intangibles of “effort” and “defense” are not relegated to upperclassmen only.

“Anybody can play good defense - a freshman can

play just as hard as a senior,” he said. “Just because we don’t have seniors doesn’t mean we will not be able to play good defense. If we play good defense, we will be in ballgames this season.”

Boyertown (1-0) was led by Marshall with 14 points and Harper with 13 points, and will face Fleetwood on Dec. 5. Kennett (0-1) was led by Frazier with 14 points and Harper with 10 points, and will host Elkton in a non-league game on Dec. 5.

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

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For

HAROLD H. MARTIN

Harold H. Martin, a resident of Lititz, Pa. and formerly of Oxford, passed away on Nov. 24, 2025 at Landis Homes in Lititz. He was 94. He was the husband of the late Edna Stoltzfus Martin, with whom he shared 74 years of marriage. Born in Goodville, Pa., he was the son of the late Clayton and Anna Mary Hollinger Martin.

Harold was a member of the Media Mennonite (Waterway) Church and served as a board member of the Chester Delaware County Farm Bureau. He was also a corporate board director of the Dairy Farms of America.

Harold enjoyed dairy farming and family.

He is survived by two sons, Kevin Martin (Robin) of Oxford and Craig Martin (Crystal) of Oxford, one daughter, Judy Powell (Stanley) of Pickens, S.C., eight grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren, and four great-great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by two brothers, Raymond Martin and Clarence Martin and three sisters, Mae Horst, Irene Good and Edna Weaver.

A celebration of life service will be held at 2 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 5 at Waterway Church, 550 Waterway Road, Oxford.

Arrangements are being handled by the Edward L. Collins, Jr. Funeral Home, Inc. (www.elcollinsfuneralhome.com) in Oxford.

Calendar of Events

Now through January 11, 2026A Longwood Christmas

A Gem of a season awaits at Longwood Gardens as the world-renowned attraction celebrates the holidays with decorations as radiant as jewels and gems. This Christmas, the Gardens are transformed into a living jewel box where nature and elegance intertwine as twinkling lights dance, hues of emerald green to ruby red to bold sapphire shimmer, and every path leads to a new treasure to behold. Experience the magic of A Longwood Christmas as you never have before. A Longwood Christmas is on display through January 11, 2026. Timed admission tickets required and tickets and more information can be found at www.longwoodgardens.org.

December 5Country Christmas in Oxford

One of Oxford’s most festive and popular events—the Country Christmas—will take place on Friday, Dec. 5. The event includes sleigh rides, live music, strolling carolers, dancers, a S’mores-making area, and an appearance by Santa Claus—plus the lighting of the town’s Christmas tree.

December 6 -

Coatesville Christmas Parade

The Coatesville Christmas Parade, presented by Cleveland-Cliffs, will be front and center down the storied Lincoln Highway, on Dec. 6 at 10 a.m. The parade began in 1950s, and traditionally hosts over 160 plus entries gracing the Lincoln Highway. It features Mummers Bands straight from Broad Street, children’s dance troops, fleets of tow trucks, police cars, and fire trucks, and local businesspeople showing off their custom-crafted floats.

December 6 and 7 - Holiday Village Market

Holiday Village Market is an open-air market at The Creamery in Kennett Square. Shop dozens of curated artisan and vintage vendors while enjoying live music, festive cocktails, food trucks, and more in a magical setting. The event recreates the atmosphere of the German Christkindlmarkt, which traces its history back to the Middle Ages. For the first two weekends in December every year, the Kennett Square Holiday Village Market brings the Christkindlmarkt experience to Southern Chester County. Dozens of artisan and vintage vendors are at the heart of the event, each stall a tiny feast of beautiful and unique handcrafted items that promise to delight the recipient and bring a sprinkling of this magic home.

December 13 and 14 - Holiday Village Market

Holiday Village Market is an open-air market at The Creamery in Kennett Square. Shop dozens of curated artisan and vintage vendors while enjoying live music,

Experience the magic of A Longwood Christmas as you never

living jewel box where nature and elegance

display through Jan. 11, 2026. Timed admission tickets

at www.longwoodgardens.org.

festive cocktails, food trucks, and more in a magical setting. The event recreates the atmosphere of the German Christkindlmarkt, which traces its history back to the Middle Ages. For the first two weekends in December every year, the Kennett Square Holiday Village Market brings the Christkindlmarkt experience to Southern Chester County. Dozens of artisan and vintage vendors are at the heart of the event, each stall a tiny feast of beautiful and unique handcrafted items that promise to delight the recipient and bring a sprinkling of this magic home.

December 18 - Kennett Square’s Tinsel on the Town

Enjoy extended shopping hours, holiday lights, a visit from Santa, and the return of the Kennett Express train for all ages. The popular event is designed for finding those unique, last-minute gifts, and a bit of fun too. Explore the different shops and restaurants along the State Street area.

December 20 - Community meal

On Saturday, Dec. 20, from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m., a community meal will be held by SILO at 301 S. 5th Street in Oxford. What to expect: pizza, fall salad, chips and holiday cookies.

December 31 - Midnight in the Square

Don’t miss the Mushroom Drop on New Year’s Eve.

Ring in the New

the

the county with Midnight in the Square and the The Mushroom Drop—in the Mushroom Capital of the World.

Now through Dec. 31

Kennett Square Holiday Window Tour

Kennett Square’s shops decorate their storefront windows for the season in a friendly competition that invites the public to vote for their favorite. The storefronts will be festively decorated throughout the holiday season.

First Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays through Dec. 14Ten Thousand Villages Gift Shop at Oxford Presbyterian Church Invest in the world and shop fair trade at the Ten Thousand Villages Gift Shop at Oxford Presbyterian Church. The shop features items from Ten Thousand Villages and will help skilled artisans in more than 33 countries receive a fair price for their products. The shop is open the First Friday in December from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Shop also on Saturdays and Sundays through December 14 from 10 a.m. to noon. The shop location is Room 206 at Oxford Presbyterian Church at 6 Pine Street in Oxford.

ESTATE NOTICE

Estate of BARBARA S. STOLTZFUS . 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 Merle W. Stoltzfus, Executor, Katelyn M. Haldman, Esquire, Legacy Law, PLLC, 147 Airport Road, Lititz, PA 17543 11-19-3t

ESTATE NOTICE

ESTATE OF SUSAN E. BARTH, DECEASED. Late of New London Township, Chester County, PA

LETTERS TESTAMENTARY on the above Estate have been granted to the undersigned, who request all persons having claims or demands against the estate of the decedent to make known the same and all persons indebted to the decedent to make payment without delay to ANNE BERRY, EXECUTRIX, c/o Carolina R. Heinle, Esq., 724 Yorklyn Rd., Ste. 100, Hockessin, DE 19707, Or to her Attorney: CAROLINA R. HEINLE, MacELREE HARVEY, LTD., 724 Yorklyn Rd., Ste. 100, Hockessin, DE 19707 11p-19-3t

PUBLIC NOTICE

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Oxford Borough Council, Chester County, Pennsylvania, at a public meeting scheduled for December 15, 2025, commencing at 7:00 p.m., to be held at the Borough Building, 401 Market Street, Oxford, PA, will consider and may enact the following Ordinance Fixing the Tax Rates for the Year 2026. Copies of the ordinance can be obtained at a charge not greater than the cost thereof at the Borough Building during normal business hours. AN ORDINANCE OF THE BOROUGH OF OXFORD, CHESTER COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA, FIXING THE TAX RATES FOR THE YEAR 2026. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ENACTED AND ORDAINED by the Borough Council of the Borough of Oxford, Chester County, Pennsylvania, as follows:

SECTION 1. Pursuant to the authority provided in the Local Tax Enabling Act, 53 P.S. §6924.101 et seq., and the Borough Code, 8 Pa. C.S. §1301, et seq., a tax is hereby levied on all real property within the Borough of Oxford subject to taxation for the fiscal year of 2026, as follows:

Tax Rate for General Purpose 14.501 Mills

SECTION 2. The reason for the tax levy is to provide revenue for general borough purposes. The estimated revenue to be derived from the tax during 2026 is $2,908,368.25.

SECTION 3. If any sentence, clause, section or part of this ordinance is, for any reason, found to be unconstitutional, illegal or invalid, such unconstitutionality, illegality or invalidity shall not affect or impair any of the remaining provisions, sentences, clauses, sections or parts hereof. It is hereby declared as the intent of Borough Council that this ordinance would have been adopted had such unconstitutional, illegal or invalid sentence, clause, section or part thereof not been included herein.

SECTION 4. All ordinances or parts of ordinances conflicting with any provisions of this ordinance are hereby repealed insofar as the same affects this ordinance.

SECTION 5. This ordinance shall take effect and be in full force and effect as of January 1, 2026 as by law provided. If you are a person with a disability wishing to attend the aforementioned meeting and require auxiliary aid, service or other accommodation to observe or participate in the proceedings, please contact the Borough secretary to discuss how your needs may best be accommodated.

OXFORD BOROUGH COUNCIL, GAWTHROP GREENWOOD, PC, Stacey L. Fuller, Solicitor 11p-19-3t

PUBLIC NOTICE

BOROUGH OF OXFORD ZONING HEARING BOARD

The Zoning Hearing Board of the Borough of Oxford will meet on Wednesday December 10, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. in the meeting room of Borough Hall, 1 Octoraro Alley, Oxford, Pennsylvania to conduct a hearing and possibly make a decision on the Application of Oxford Arts Alliance for a property owned by Oxford United Methodist Church located at 18 Addison Street, Borough of Oxford. The property is improved with buildings and parking used as a place of worship. The Applicant proposes to rent building space from the owner to teach music and art lessons. The Applicant is requesting variances to permit the music and art lessons use and a second principal use on the property. The property subject of the Application is located in the R-2 Residential Zoning

District. If you are a person with a disability and require an accommodation to attend or participate in the hearing, please contact the Borough at 610-932-2500. 11-26-2t

ESTATE NOTICE

ESTATE OF STEPHEN LOUIS RZUCIDLO a/k/a STEPHEN L. RZUCIDLO, DECEASED. Late of Upper Oxford Township, Chester County, PA. LETTERS TESTAMENTARY on the above Estate have been granted to the undersigned, who request all persons having claims or demands against the estate of the decedent to make known the same and all persons indebted to the decedent to make payment without delay to MAKSIM I. PANOV, EXECUTOR, c/o April L. Charleston, Esq., 60 W. Boot Rd., Ste. 201, West Chester, PA 19380, Or to his Attorney: APRIL L. CHARLESTON, THE CHARLESTON LAW FIRM, 60 W. Boot Rd., Ste. 201 West Chester, PA 19380 11p-26-3t

ESTATE NOTICE

Estate of Franklin Theodore Orne aka Franklin Orne aka Franklin T. Orne, Deceased late of the Borough of Oxford, Chester County, PA. Letters of Administration 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 Tracey Orne, Administratrix, c/o John R. Lundy, Esq., Lundy Beldecos & Milby, PC, 450 N. Narberth Ave., Suite 200, Narberth, PA 19072. 11p-26-3t

ESTATE NOTICE

Estate of Timothy Charles Tart, Deceased, late of Landenberg, New Garden Township, 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 Ralph DiRosato, Executor, 212 Penn Green Rd., Oxford, PA,, 19363 11p-26-3t

ESTATE NOTICE

ESTATE OF MARY LORETTA McGRAW, DECEASED. Late of Elk Township, Chester County, PA. LETTERS TESTAMENTARY on the above Estate have been granted to the undersigned, who request all persons having claims or demands against the estate of the decedent to make known the same and all persons indebted to the decedent to make payment without delay to JESSIE McCARTY, EXECUTRIX, 117 Elgin Avenue, Haddon Township, NJ 08108, Or to her Attorney: KENNETH C. RUSSELL, RUSSELL LAW, P.C., 3500 Reading Way, Huntingdon Valley, PA 19006 12-3-3t

PENN TOWNSHIP

BID NOTICE

INVITATION FOR BIDS FOR THE CONCRETE PACKAGE FOR THE PROPOSED FITNESS CENTER, PENN TOWNSHIP COMMUNITY PARK, 260 LEWIS ROAD, WEST GROVE,

PENNSYLVANIA 19390 , PENN TOWNSHIP, CHESTER COUNTY, PA.

PROPOSALS will be received by the Board of Supervisors, Penn Township, Chester County, Pennsylvania between the hours of 9:00 A.M. and 3:00 P.M. until 3:00 P.M., Prevailing Time, Tuesday, January 20, 2026, at the Penn Township Offices located at 260 Lewis Road, West Grove, PA 19390, for the following: The Project includes the construction of a concrete pad and walkways associated with the National Fitness Center Project at the Penn Township Community Park, including temporary access road, erosion and sedimentation controls, grading, and restoration.

All Bids will be publicly opened and read aloud by the Township Director of Operations at 6:00 P.M. Prevailing Time, on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, at the Penn Township Board of Supervisors meeting held at the Penn Township Building, 260 Lewis Road, West Grove, PA 19390.

Specifications and Forms of Proposal may be obtained From the Director of Operations at the Office of the Penn Township, at the Township Office address above between the hours of 9:00 A.M. and 3:00 P.M. beginning Wednesday, December 3, 2025, at 9:00 A.M. There is no fee for the Project Manual and Bid Package. No Project Manuals and Bid Packages, including the Form of Proposal and Specifications, will be sent out electronically by the Township. Proposals must be upon the forms furnished by the Township and securely sealed in an envelope marked “ Penn Township Community Park Fitness Center Concrete Package.”

Each Bidder must deposit with his/her bid, security in the form of a bid bond or certified check in the amount of not less than ten percent (10%) of the total bid made payable to the order of the Penn Township. Pennsylvania prevailing wage rates will apply to this project, in addition to any and all other applicable federal, state, and local laws, statutes, ordinance, rules and regulations.

Penn Township reserves the right to accept any or all bids or parts thereof, or to reject any or all bids or parts thereof, for any cause whatsoever, as they deem for the best interest of the Township.

No bidder may withdraw his/her bid within sixty (60) days after the date set for the receiving and opening of bids.

Each bid must be accompanied by a signed commitment of the proposed surety offering to execute a Performance Bond, as well as the Letter of Intent, and Non-Collusion Affidavit, Nondiscrimination/Sexual Harassment Clause, Public Works Employment Verification Form, and Statement of Bidder’s Qualifications.

The successful Bidder will be required to furnish a Contractor’s Performance Bond and Labor and Materialmen’s Bond in an amount of 100% of the accepted bid and a Maintenance

Bond in the amount 10% of the

Contract Amount. The Surety Company and form of surety shall be subject to the approval of Penn Township. The Bond Company should have no less than an “A” rating (Best Rating) and provide documentation of their authority to do business in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. In addition, the Bond should be provided without a reinsurer.

Funding assistance for the Fitness Court and Studio® Improvements at the Penn Township Community Park has been provided in part through a grant from Independence Blue Cross (IBX) and National Fitness Campaign (NFC). By Order of the, Penn Township Board of Supervisors, Karen Versuk, MBA PhD, Director of Operations 12p-3-2t

PUBLIC NOTICE

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN

The New London Township Board of Supervisors previously advertised and scheduled meeting for December 2, 2025, will be rescheduled for December 9th, 2025 at 6PM at the New London Township Building located at 902 State Rd. New London, PA 19390. If you are a person with a disability and require special accommodation to participate in the meeting, please contact the Township at 610-869-8658 no later than 3 working days prior to the meeting 12p-3-1t

PUBLIC NOTICE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN

that the Council of the Borough of Oxford, Chester County, Pennsylvania, at a public meeting scheduled on Monday, December 15, 2025, commencing at 7:00 p.m., to be held at the Borough Building, 1 Octoraro Alley, Oxford, Pennsylvania, will conduct a public hearing to consider and possibly enact an ordinance amending Chapter 15, Motor Vehicles and Traffic, of the Oxford Borough Code, the caption and summary of which follow. The full text of the ordinance may be examined at the Chester County Law Library, 201 West Market Street, West Chester, Pennsylvania and the Borough Building at the above address during regular business hours. Copies of the ordinance may be obtained at a charge not greater than the cost thereof.

AN ORDINANCE OF OXFORD BOROUGH, CHESTER COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA, AMENDING CHAPTER 15, MOTOR VEHICLES AND TRAFFIC, PART 7, OFF-STREET METERED PARKING, OF THE OXFORD BOROUGH CODE, TO AMEND §§ 15-701, OFFSTREET METERED PARKING LOTS ESTABLISHED; 15-703, APPLICABLE DAYS AND HOURS; AND 15-707, PAYMENT; OVERTIME PARKING.

SECTION 1. Amends Part 7, Off-Street Metered Parking, §15-701, Off-Street Metered Parking Lots Established, to revise subsection 2, to read as follows:

2. The following is established as the off-street metered park-

ing garage operated by the Borough: Oxford Borough Parking Garage 1 Octoraro Alley (UPI # 6-4-178.1 & # 6-4-179.1); and to add new subsection 3, to read as follows:

3. Rates for off-street metered parking in the Borough parking lots and garage shall be determined in accordance with a schedule of fees adopted by resolution of Borough Council.

SECTION 2. Amends Part 7, Off-Street Metered Parking, § 15-703, Applicable Days and Hours, to read as follows: § 15-703 Applicable Days and Hours.

1. Off-street parking lots. The regulations of this Part shall apply to the off-street parking meters in established off-street metered parking lots, set forth in § 15-701.1, at all times between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 8:00 pm., prevailing time, Monday through Saturday; provided, however, that the requirement of this Part as to parking time limits and payment shall not apply on Sundays and holidays.

2. Off-street parking garage. The regulations of this Part shall apply to the off-street metered parking garage, as set forth in § 15-701.2, at all times, 24 hours per day, 7 days a week; provided, however, that the requirement of this Part as to parking time limits and payment shall not apply on holidays.

SECTION 3. Amends Part 7, Off-Street Metered Parking, § 15-707, Payment; Overtime Parking, to add new subsection 4, Payment in Borough Parking Garage, regarding the installation and operation of multicompartment parking control devices at the entrances of the Borough Parking Garage.

SECTION 4. Provides for the severability of unconstitutional or invalid provisions of the ordinance.

SECTION 5. Repeals ordinances or parts of ordinances in conflict with any provisions of this ordinance.

SECTION 6. Provides for the renumbering of ordinance sections as part of codification of the ordinance.

SECTION 7. Provides that the amendment shall be effective as by law provided.

OXFORD BOROUGH COUNCIL, GAWTHROP GREENWOOD, PC, Stacey L. Fuller, Solicitor 12p-3-1t

PUBLIC NOTICE

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Council of the Borough of Oxford, Chester County, Pennsylvania, at a public meeting scheduled on Monday, December 15, 2025, commencing at 7:00 p.m., to be held at the Borough Building, 1 Octoraro Alley, Oxford, Pennsylvania, will conduct a public hearing to consider and possibly enact an ordinance amending Chapter 2, Animals, of the Oxford Borough Code, to add new Part 2, Beekeeping, and new Part 3, Domesticated Chickens, the caption and summary of which follow. The full text of the ordinance may be examined at the Chester County Law Library, 201 West Market Street, West

Chester, Pennsylvania and the Borough Building at the above address during regular business hours. Copies of the ordinance may be obtained at a charge not greater than the cost thereof. AN ORDINANCE OF OXFORD BOROUGH, CHESTER COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA, AMENDING CHAPTER 2, ANIMALS, OF THE OXFORD BOROUGH CODE, TO ADD NEW PART 2, BEEKEEPING, AND NEW PART 3, DOMESTICATED CHICKENS.

SECTION 1. Amends Chapter 2, Animals, to add new Part 2, Beekeeping, which includes the following sections: §2-201, Definitions, which sets forth the following terms and their accompanying definitions: apiary, beekeeper, beekeeping equipment, colony, hive, honeybee, lot, nucleus colony, and undeveloped property; §2-202, Purpose, which requires flyaway barriers and establishes certain requirements for beekeeping within the Borough; §2-203, General Requirements, which sets forth standard conditions for beekeeping; §2-204, Specific Requirements, which establishes limits for the quantity of colonies permitted on a lot; §2-205, Permit Requirements, which establishes permit requirements; §2-206, Inspection and Enforcement, which provides for inspection and enforcement of this Part by the Code Enforcement Officer; and §2-207, Violations and Penalties, which establishes penalties for violation of this Part.

SECTION 2. Amends Chapter 2, Animals, to add new Part 3, Domesticated Chickens, which includes the following sections: §2-301, Definitions, which sets forth the following terms and their accompanying definitions: chicken run, domesticated chicken, and henhouse; §2-302, Purpose, which establishes standards for the keeping of domesticated chickens within the Borough; §2-303, General Requirements, which sets forth standard conditions for the

Legals/Classifieds

keeping of chickens; §2-304, Specific Requirements, which establishes limits for the number and types of chickens permitted, sanitary requirements, and composting requirements; §2-305, Permit Requirements, which establishes permit requirements; §2-306, Inspection and Enforcement, which provides for inspection and enforcement of this Part by the Code Enforcement Officer; and §2-307, Violations and Penalties, which establishes penalties for violation of this Part.

SECTION 3. Provides for the severability of unconstitutional or invalid provisions of the ordinance.

SECTION 4. Repeals ordinances or parts of ordinances in conflict with any provisions of this ordinance.

SECTION 5. Provides for the renumbering of ordinance sections as part of codification of the ordinance.

SECTION 6. Provides that the amendment shall be effective as by law provided.

OXFORD BOROUGH COUNCIL, GAWTHROP GREENWOOD, PC, Stacey L. Fuller, Solicitor 12p-3-1t

PUBLIC NOTICE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Council of the Borough of Oxford, Chester County, Pennsylvania, at a public meeting scheduled on Monday, December 15, 2025, commencing at 7:00 p.m., to be held at the Borough Building, 1 Octoraro Alley, Oxford, Pennsylvania, will conduct a public hearing to consider and possibly enact an ordinance amending Chapter 5, Code Enforcement, Chapter 6, Conduct, and Chapter 7, Fire Prevention and Fire Protection, of the Oxford Borough Code, the caption and summary of which follow. The full text of the ordinance may be examined at the Chester County Law Library, 201 West Market Street, West Chester, Pennsylvania and the Borough Building at the above

address during regular business hours. Copies of the ordinance may be obtained at a charge not greater than the cost thereof.

AN ORDINANCE OF OXFORD BOROUGH, CHESTER COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA, AMENDING CHAPTER 5, CODE ENFORCEMENT, OF THE OXFORD BOROUGH CODE, TO DELETE EXISTING PARTS 3 THROUGH 6 AND REPLACE THEM WITH NEW PART 3, FIRE PREVENTION CODE, PART 4, NONRESIDENTIAL PROPERTY INSPECTION AND PERMITS, PART 5, RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY INSPECTION AND PERMITS, AND PART 6, ADMINISTRATION AND ENFORCEMENT; AMEND CHAPTER 6, CONDUCT, PART 1, DISORDERLY CONDUCT AND DISTURBANCES, § 6-111, DISRUPTIVE CONDUCT IN RESIDENTIAL RENTAL PROPERTIES, TO AMEND THE DEFINITION OF “RESIDENTIAL RENTAL PROPERTY;” AND AMEND CHAPTER 7, FIRE PREVENTION AND FIRE PROTECTION, TO ADD NEW PART 2, KEY LOCK BOXES.

SECTION 1. Amends Chapter 5, Code Enforcement, to delete existing Part 3, Residential Standards; Part 4, Commercial Standards; Part 5, Residential Rental Inspections; and Part 6, Administration and Enforcement; and replace them with the following: Part 3, Fire Prevention Code, which includes the following sections: §5-301, Adoption, Adopting the 2018 International Fire Code; and §5-302, Additions, insertions and changes; Part 4, Nonresidential Property Inspection and Permits, which includes the following sections: §5-401, Purposes; §5-402, Interpretation; §5-403, Definitions; §5-404, Standards for Non-Residential Properties; §5-405, Duty to Register NonResidential Property; §5-406, Non-Residential Property Annual Inspection Permit; §5-407, Requirements to Obtain NonResidential Property Permit; §5-408, Designation of Respon-

sible Local Agent; and §5-409, Transfer of Ownership; Part 5, Residential Property Inspection and Permits, which includes the following sections: §5-501, Purposes; §5-502, Interpretation; §5-503, Definitions; §5-504, Standards for Residential Properties; §5-505, Duty to Register Residential Rental Property; §5-506, Residential Rental Property Annual Inspection Permit; §5-507, Requirements to Obtain Residential Rental Property Permit; §5-508, Designation of Responsible Local Agent; §5-509, Transfer of Ownership; and §5-510, Occupancy Report by Owner of Premises; and Part 6, Administration and Enforcement, which includes the following sections: §5-601, Code Enforcement Official; §5602, Inspection and Access to Dwellings; §5-603, Access for Residential Repairs; §5-604, Notice of Violation; §5-605, Appeals from Notice of Violation; §5-606, Effective Date of Notice of Violation; §5-607, Emergency Action; §5-608, Dwelling Units Unfit for Human Habitation; §5-609, Adoption of Rules and Regulations; §5-610, Abatement of Violations; §5-611, Penalty for Violations; §5-612, Revocation of Certificates of Occupancy for Residential Rental Properties; §5-613, Suspension of Annual Permit; and §5-614, Hearing Regarding Suspended Annual Permit.

SECTION 2. Amends Chapter 6, Conduct, Part 1, Disorderly Conduct and Disturbances, § 6-111, Disruptive Conduct in Residential Rental Properties, subsection 1, Definitions, to replace the definition of “Residential Rental Property” with the following new definition: “Residential rental property” shall include, but is not limited to, any dwelling; dwelling unit; building, premises or structure, temporary or permanent, including an accessory dwelling unit, not occupied by the owner thereof and which has been or may be let for occupancy for more than 30 days.

SECTION 3. Amends Chapter 7, Fire Prevention and Fire Protection, to add new Part 2, Key Lock Boxes, which includes the following sections: §7-201, Findings; purpose; definition; §7-202, Applicability; timeframe for compliance; type to be used; §7-203, Contents; second box; §7-204, Information to be provided to Fire Marshal; updating required; §7-205, Rules and regulations for use; §7-206, Permit Requirements; and §7207, Violations and penalties.

SECTION 4. Provides for the severability of unconstitutional or invalid provisions of the ordinance.

SECTION 5. Repeals ordinances or parts of ordinances in conflict with any provisions of this ordinance.

SECTION 6. Provides for the renumbering of ordinance sections as part of codification of the ordinance.

SECTION 7. Provides that the amendment shall be effective as by law provided.

OXFORD BOROUGH COUNCIL, GAWTHROP GREENWOOD, PC, Stacey L. Fuller, Solicitor 12p-3-1t

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Author Mowday receives DAR America 250! Commendation

On Oct. 29, the National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) presented Chester County author Bruce E. Mowday with the “17762026 DAR America 250! Commendation.”

A certificate signed by Pamela Wright, National Chair of DAR’s America 250! Committee, noted the high honor was presented to Mowday “for Demonstration of Extraordinary Effort in Raising Awareness of Revolutionary Patriots and America’s 250th Anniversary.”

“I’m so honored to receive this national DAR award,” Mowday said. “The recognition was totally unexpected.”

Mowday, chair of the Lafayette Brandywine Bicentennial Committee and author of three books on the battle of Brandywine and the Marquis Lafayette, worked with DAR members to distribute his book on young Lafayette to students. The book is titled Lafayette: America’s Young Hero and Guest.

Shannon Skees Carter, Regent of the Plankeshaw DAR Chapter in New

Albany, Ind., wrote in a letter to Mowday, “We wanted to honor your contribution to the preservation of history and continuing to educate our youth regarding those who fought for our freedom.”

Carter continued, “The children of Indiana will now be able to read about the young Lafayette and his contribution to our great nation. Our chapter members have promoted and delivered many copies of your book throughout the state and within our own county to schools

DAR noted Mowday’s support of America’s 250th anniversary.

and libraries. Shelly Doss, INDAR State Librarian and Plankeshaw Chapter Member, has expressed to us how pleased she was to partner with you and spread the message of Lafayette. Thank you for playing such a big role in our chapter’s ability to promote the DAR’s mission of Historic Preservation, Education and Patriotism.”

Mowday’s Lafayette bicentennial committee identified a need to have a non-fiction book on Lafayette available to students and adults.

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He explained, “I contacted Alan R. Hoffman, President of the American Friends of Lafayette. I used Alan’s fine book on Lafayette’s return to the United States in 1824 and 1825 and my book

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The National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution presented the 1776-2026 DAR America 250! Commendation to author Bruce E. Mowday for his ‘Demonstration of Extraordinary Effort in Raising Awareness of Revolutionary Patriots and America’s 250th Anniversary.’

Lafayette at Brandywine: The Making of an American Hero to develop the book for students. Chadds Ford artist Shay Aubrey Allen contributed original sketches for the book.”

Proceeds from the book assisted the American Friends of Lafayette’s 13-month bicentennial celebration and the goal of

educating the public about Lafayette. “Many people contributed to the success of the young Lafayette book,” Mowday said. “This project has been ongoing for more than three years and continues. Copies of the book are available. Those interested should contact me at mowday@ mowday.com.”

Pennsylvanians see billions in economic, community benefits from hospitals in their communities

Pennsylvania’s hospitals support $195.4 billion in economic impact, and generated 785,715 jobs

Hospitals are more important than ever to the health and economic competitiveness of Pennsylvania communities, an analysis released by The Hospital and Healthsystem Association of Pennsylvania (HAP) recently indicated.

HAP’s analysis of fiscal year (FY) 2024 data found that the commonwealth’s hospitals invested nearly $10.8 billion in strengthening the health of their communities while—both directly and through the ripple effects of their economic activity—supporting 1 in 8 jobs statewide and

almost a fifth of the commonwealth’s gross domestic product.

The economic impact of hospitals includes contributing $195.4 billion to the state and local economies, supporting 785,715 jobs throughout the entire commonwealth, and generating $62.8 billion in wages, salaries, and benefits.

The data underscores what’s at stake for communities beyond access to essential health care as recently enacted federal funding cuts are poised to exacerbate the financial instability many

Pennsylvania hospitals already face. During FY 2024, fewer than half of the commonwealth’s acute care hospitals operated with margins necessary for longterm stability, 37 percent operated in the red, and 39 percent faced multi-year losses.

“We can’t have healthy, vibrant communities in Pennsylvania without strong, financially stable hospitals,” HAP president and CEO Nicole Stallings said. “HAP calls on our leaders in both Harrisburg and Washington to support policies that ensure

hospitals can continue to provide high-quality care that Pennsylvanians depend on, and support communities where both people and businesses can thrive.”

Chronic underpayment by Medicaid—which provides insurance for nearly a quarter of Pennsylvanians and is one of hospitals’ largest payors—is among the top drivers of hospitals’ financial strain. Already, Medicaid reimburses Pennsylvania hospitals only 71 cents per dollar of care provided. That amount will drop to 64 cents when fed-

eral cuts are phased in.

Additional key findings of HAP’s analysis include the following:

• Hospitals’ $10.8 billion community benefit includes investments in areas such as enhancing community health, providing charity care to patients in need, training and educating the next generation of health care professionals, conducting lifesaving medical research, and absorbing costs associated with caring for millions of Pennsylvanians covered by Medicare and Medicaid.

• 56 of Pennsylvania’s 67 counties have at least one hospital among their top 10 employers and in 20 of them, a hospital is the largest employer.

• Hospitals’ economic impact has increased 70 percent over the past decade.

• Pennsylvania hospital jobs pay, on average, about 7.6 percent higher than the statewide average wage for all sectors.

• Hospitals invested $1.2 billion educating the next generation of health professionals.