Chester County Press 03-18-2020 Edition

As of March 17, the statewide total of

Six presumptive positive COVID-19 cases recorded in Chester County

By Richard L. Gaw Staff Writer

Chester County Health Department officials have announced that six county residents have tested positive for COVID-19, as posted on the website www. chesco.org/coronavirus.

The first two cases are identified as a 56-year-old female resident of West Pikeland, who was diagnosed on March 13, and a 30-year-old male who lives in North Coventry, who was confirmed on March 14. Two additional cases

were confirmed on by the Chester County Health Department on March 15, and are identified as a 54-year-old male resident of Goshen, and a 20-yearold female, also of Goshen. Each of these individuals had a history of exposure to a COVID-19 case.

The gender, age identifications and the respective towns of the two latest confirmed cases have not been disclosed on the department’s coronavirus website.

As of March 17, the number of confirmed

Kennett Square Borough and Kennett Township seek funding for micro-transit study

By Steven Hoffman Staff Writer

Kennett Square Borough and Kennett Township are working collaboratively to file an application for a grant that could be used to conduct a micro-transit study of the Kennett Square area. The study could lead to the addition of some form of public transportation for residents in the Kennett area.

Nate Echeverria, the economic development director, said at the March 2 Kennett Square Borough Council meeting that the township and the borough will be jointly applying for a $100,000 grant.

The municipalities are applying for federal funding that has been directed to the Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission, which works to improve the region’s transportation system through a variety of programs and projects.

Kennett Square Borough and Kennett Township would utilize the funds to

retain consultants and to complete a study of microtransit opportunities.

“Step one is to do a study,” Echeverria said, explaining that meetings have already been held with the Transportation Management Association of Chester County (TMACC), which also works on public transportation issues in the area.

The municipalities would be required to put up some matching funds if they receive the grant. The borough’s portion of the matching funds would be approximately $7,500.

Borough council member Ethan Cramer said that bringing some sort of additional public transportation to Kennett Square residents has been a clear priority, and a need, for a long time.

John Thomas, a borough resident, said that he would like to see a motorized trolley system in Kennett Square because it would fit well with the historic character of the borough.

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coronavirus cases in Pennsylvania stood at 76. In addition to Chester County, there have been cases detected in the following counties: Allegheny, Bucks, Cumberland, Delaware, Lehigh, Luzerne, Monroe, Montgomery, Northampton, Philadelphia, Pike, Washington and Wayne.

The news that the virus now includes Chester County comes on the heels of a sweeping effort made last week by Pa. Gov. Tom Wolf and many of the state’s top officials to initi-

Gov. Wolf was joined by Chrissy Houlahan, U.S. Rep. for Pennsylvania’s 6th Congressional District, Pennsylvania Secretary of Health Dr. Rachel

ate measures to mitigate the spread of the coronavirus throughout the county and in several other counties in the Commonwealth. They include severe restrictions placed on businesses, public events, travel and the closure of public K-12 schools, including brick and mortar and cyber charter schools, career and technical centers (CTCs), and intermediate units (IUs). All other schools – including private, parochial, and institutions of higher education – should be consulted directly for the most current closure information.

David M. Madonna named recipient of regional police’s top award

By Richard L. Gaw Staff Writer

At the annual Southern Chester County Regional Police Department (SCCRPD) awards ceremony on March 12, the recipient of the evening’s most prestigious recognition was missing, but it was for a good reason.

Officer David M.

Madonna was off preparing to serve his country.

In ceremonies held at the New Garden Township Building, Madonna’s parents Stephen Madonna and Michelle Edwards accepted the prestigious 2019 Commissioners Award for their son, who is currently assigned to the Delta 1-50 Diamondbacks at Fort Benning, Ga., where he is

completing his basic combat training for the Army National Guard. Soon after the SCCRPD expanded its police coverage area to include Avondale Borough last year, Madonna became the borough’s primary officer, where he received high praise for his work with the community in conjunction

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Penn Township supervisors discuss the Red Rose Inn, grant opportunities, and school project plans

By Marcella Peyre-Ferry Contributing Writer

The Penn Township Board of Supervisors authorized the release of the final payment of $78,125 for work on the Intersection of Route 796 and Baltimore Pike, alongside the Red Rose Inn, at the township meeting on March 4. No funds are being retained, but there is still a maintenance bond in place to take care of any problems that arise in the first year after the work was

completed.

At the Red Rose Inn, plans will be looked at soon for landscaping at the site. Supervisors are also considering the possibility of adding a town clock on the property.

Friends of Penn Township last month submitted an application for a Mushroom Festival Grant on behalf of the Township Historical Commission. If received, the funding will be used to purchase technology to display the oral histories the

Historical Commission has collected. Ultimately, the material would be part of an historical display at the Red Rose Inn. The township has also applied to the Chester County Open Space Municipal Grant Program, requesting $250,000 toward construction of the residents’ portion of the township’s new sports park. This would include the environmental education area, parking areas, playground, and pickle ball

courts. Other grants will be sought to use as matching funds and for development of playing fields at the new park.

A brief update on plans for the new Avon Grove High School indicated that a letter has been received from the Chester County Conservation District, with a list of items that it wants to see addressed. The school plan is expected to come back to the board for final approval later this month but addressing the

conditions may need to come first. “That letter is very intense. I don’t know how you put in a final plan without addressing all that stuff in there,” supervisor Victor Mantegna said.

Supervisors are asking residents to support Chester Water Authority’s efforts to avoid a forced sale of the water system.

“Share as much information as you can on social media to get the word out to more and more people.

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Levine, and Pennsylvania Secretary of Education Pedro Rivera, during this announcement.

Effective in Chester, Montgomery, Delaware and Bucks counties:

• A no visitor policy has been implemented for correctional facilities and nursing homes and will be evaluated for other facilities.

• Freedom of travel will remain, but the governor and his administration ask all people to refrain from non-essential travel.

• All child care centers licensed by the Commonwealth will be closed beginning March 16.

• Adult day care centers will be closed beginning March 16.

• Essential services such as police, fire and emergency medical services, and essential services for vulnerable populations, will continue to remain available.

• Supermarkets, pharmacies, and gas stations will remain open. The administration issued guidelines for non-essential businesses during county-specific mitigation periods to protect employees, customers, and suppliers and limit the spread of the virus

with the objectives of the department.

“It cannot be over-

through personal contact and surfaces. Statewide, the Wolf administration:

• Strongly encourages the suspension of large gatherings, events, conferences of 250 individuals or more.

• Discourages individuals from traveling to recreational activities like gyms, movie theaters and shopping malls.

• Encourages religious leaders to exercise discretion in order to mitigate the spread of illness.

• Initiated a no-visitor policy at all State correctional facilities and nursing homes to ensure the safety of inmates, residents, staff and visitors.

• Restricted visitors in state centers effective today to ensure health and safety for individuals with an intellectual disability.

• Restricted visitors in assisted living and personal care homes to minimize exposure to our seniors and individuals with disabilities.

“Over the past two days, we enacted significant social distancing in Montgomery and Delaware counties and starting tomorrow, we will expand these mitigation efforts to Bucks County and Chester County,” Gov. Wolf said. “Where there is evidence of exposure to COVID19, the Commonwealth

stated how important the responsibility of being the first Southern Chester County Regional Police Department officer working in a community that

has taken decisive action – closing both public and private schools and early learning centers, prohibiting visitors from entering senior care and long-term care facilities, and closing government offices.

“We have initiated these actions in places where we have confirmed evidence of risk, like Montgomery, Delaware, Bucks, and Chester counties, and we will continue to monitor this situation as it unfolds to determine if and when we will do this in other counties in Pennsylvania. Individuals, businesses, and communities across Pennsylvania are already stepping up to the challenge. If we succeed in slowing the spread of COVID-19, it will be because we all do our part.”

At a recent press conference, Gov. Wolf strongly urged “non-essential businesses” in Bucks, Chester, Delaware and Montgomery counties to close for 14 days from the start of the mitigation efforts, in order to protect employees, customers and suppliers, and limit the spread of the virus through personal contact and surfaces.

Impact on Businesses

In a March 14 letter from Levine and Pa. Secretary of Community and

had not experienced our mission-oriented business model,” Police Chief Gerald Simpson said about Madonna. “P.O. Madonna embraced his charge and

Economic Development Dennis M. Davin to the state’s business owners, they were informed that the Pa. Department of Health strongly encouraged that the following businesses should “cease regular operations”:

• Community and recreation centers

• Gyms, including yoga/ spin/barre facilities

• Hair salons, nail salons and spas

• Casinos, concert venues and theaters

• Bars

• Sporting events facilities and golf courses, and

• Non-essential retail facilities, including shopping malls (except for pharmacy or other health care facilities located there).

The letter also advised that restaurants should remain open for carryout and delivery only, and that liquor stores to begin “an orderly closure,” but will permit individuals to buy beer and wine at grocery stores who have licenses granted to them by the Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board (PLCB).

Rep. Houlahan also announced the passage of federal legislation to support the efforts of states to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 and offered support to businesses and

responded with the energy and enthusiasm required for his post.”

Simpson also acknowledged that Madonna embraced his role in

communities in the 6th Congressional District.

“We are called upon to be our best selves in an unusual and stressful time,” said Houlahan.

“This is about our community as a whole – it is as much about protecting our friends and neighbors as it is about protecting ourselves. In Washington, we just passed a second package of legislation

Avondale from a “community policing” standpoint, “developing trusted contacts from all walks of life which would yield information helpful to us

to help families, including free testing, paid sick leave, unemployment insurance, and more Medicaid funding. As a former entrepreneur and chief operating officer of a company in Chester County, I know how hard this is and will continue to be there for our small businesses.”

“Pennsylvania has taken a different approach than

to perform our duties,” he said.

On Nov. 10, 2019, Madonna was off duty when he received a tip about a subject who was wanted for a felony burglary. Using his personal vehicle, Madonna confirmed that the information he received was accurate, and alerted his police colleagues, who later located the subject, who was arrested after a vehicle pursuit and a violent struggle.

“P.O. Madonna’s accomplishments stood above and beyond his peers in 2019 – conspicuous and exceptional indeed,” Simpson said.

In addition to Madonna, several other SCCRPD officers were acknowledged during the presentation. DUI enforcement awards were given to Officers Gregory Blue, Justin Busam, Vincent Giacobello, Nicole Lantz, Riley Miller, Alexander Reed, Raymond Sullivan, Stephen Syska, Braden Walsh and Madonna, while PFC Jeremy O’Neill and Cpl. Benjamin Brown received lifetime awards

most other states and countries,” Gov. Wolf said. “We’re trying to approach the coronavirus outbreak in a measured way. Where there is evidence of exposure to COVID-19, the commonwealth has taken decisive action. Closing schools and early learning centers – both public and private, prohibiting visitors from entering senior care and

long-term care facilities, and closing government offices.

“We will continue to monitor this situation as it unfolds to determine if – and when – we will do this in other counties in Pennsylvania.”

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

School districts respond to Gov. Wolf’s closing orders

By Chris Barber Contributing Writer

Based on the order from Pennsylvania Gov. Tom Wolf last week, all public schools in the commonwealth are closed from March 16 to the earliest reopening of March 30. Likewise, childcare centers within the schools and all universities in the Pennsylvania State System of High Education are also closed.

Essential staff such as administration, food preparation and continuity of operations may continue to work at the discretion of the school. Should a school, because of the closing, not meet the required 180 school days requirement, they will not be penalized, the governor said.

Additionally, Wolf said schools may but are not required to provide instruction during the closing. The school staffs are reminded that there are options like flexible instruction days, online opportunities and non-digital learning like materials sent home.

The local school districts in the southern Chester County area have responded to the state directive and have contacted stakeholders.

Kennett Consolidated School District

“KCSD will continue to remain vigilant in its efforts to prevent the spread of COVID-19 during this extended closure,” Blakey wrote. “During this time, our facilities staff will continue to clean and sanitize all our buildings and offices. The situation will be monitored and reassessed on a daily basis with any and all pertinent information being communicated to families and staff via email in addition to posting updates and resources to our website. Individuals with questions are invited to call 610-444-6600.”

Unionville-Chadds Ford School District

District Superintendent

John Sanville said that during this time, students and staff will participate in distance learning.

“UCF is prepared to provide education to our students… through a multitude of distance learning platforms,” he wrote. “Teachers have been trained and we have technical staff ready to assist. By doing this, we are in a better position should the shutdown extend beyond March 29.”

Grove opened the doors on Monday between 10 a.m. and noon for students to come in and get their belongings. Staff was allowed access on Monday from 7:30 a.m. to noon. In an effort to continue to provide meals to the students during the extended school closure, the Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE) is permitting AGSD’s Food Service Department to offer meals in an approved area.

Beginning on March 18, AGSD will be providing Free Grab & Go meals to any child age 18 and under, and all children must be present to receive a meal. The approved meal pick-up area is the Avon Grove Area Little League’ Rosehill Field, located at 218 Rosehill Road in West Grove. According to the district’s website, food service staff will be onsite from 10 a.m. to noon on the following days: March 18 through March 20; and March 23 through March 27.

been asked to provide review, supplemental, and/ or enrichment activities.

“These days are not being used to replace true instruction,” Marchese’s letter continued. “Students will not be required to complete materials, nor will they count toward final grades. We recognize that this is a difficult situation and not all families will be able to support their children’s work.”

Marchese wrote that because there were no snow days used by the district this past winter – an despite of the close of schools due to the COVID-19 outbreak -- the district calendar is still on track to finish the 2019-20 school year on June 2.

Photos by Richard L. Gaw Avondale resident Abby Longen and her dog Pippa received the SCCRPD’s Challenge Coin for helping to alert the police to the location of a suspect who had fled from the police last September. The suspect was subsequently arrested on numerous felony charges. for their efforts in curbing DUI incidents. The ceremonies also included the formal swearing in of Walsh and Braden Krissinger as full-time officers, and the swearing in of Brown and Cpl. Ryan Kushner for their promotion to the rank of Corporal.

In addition, the SCCRPD’s Challenge Coin was issued to Avondale residents James Duffy and Abby Longen -- as well as Longen’s dog, Pippa – for their efforts in assisting the police with the apprehension of a felon.

On Sept. 16, 2019 at about 1:30 p.m., officers responded to a complaint of drug activity in the area of 81 East Baltimore Pike in the borough. Upon police arrival, the suspect fled in a vehicle that crashed less than a mile from the scene at State Street and Pomeroy Avenue. The suspect then fled on foot from the pursuing officers. With the assistance of Duffy, Longen – and the dog’s barking – the suspect was observed attempting to conceal himself in a nearby backyard. Duffy and Longen directed the police to the suspect’s location, where he was arrested on numerous felony charges.

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

Former New Garden Township Manager Tony Scheivert was also recognized for his five-year service to the township and his commitment and support of the police department; namely, championing the SCCRPD’s efforts to create its current headquarters on Gap-Newport Pike in the township.

In a letter that was sent to parents, Superintendent Dusty Blakey informed them about the steps the district is taking in light of the coronavirus pandemic. On March 13, administrative staff and teachers prepared meaningful academic opportunities to offer to the children during the closure. On March 15, the district’s administration was actively discussing a plan to district food to the students in the district.

On March 17, the letter stated, students and parents will receive information on how to access online and printed work.

A spokesman for the district added that the planned field trip to Germany has been canceled.

For those in the district who are seeking additional information, Sanville directed them to the UCFSD’s Tech Resources for Distance Learning page on the district’s website. All UCFSD students participating in free and/ or reduced lunch programs will continue to receive breakfast and lunch daily. Meals will be available for pickup at Chadds Ford Elementary School and Unionville High School. Check the website for more information.

“We are looking ahead carefully,” Sanville wrote. “We must be nimble -- as we are in the middle of a worldwide health crisis. We all know that the upcoming days will have bumps -- but we are prepared to address them as they come.”

Avon Grove School District

As the school closing order was imposed, Avon

Parents and students do not need to get out of the car, but simply drive up to the distribution table to get meal(s). Each bagged meal includes lunch and breakfast for the following day, and will be provided on a first-come, first-served basis.

In a letter written by District Superintendent Christopher Marchese, he stated that March 16 and 17 were considered as leaning opportunities for district staff to work from home and develop online learning opportunities for students.

“We ask that you treat Monday and Tuesday like snow days for your children; keep them reading, keep them engaged and keep them safe,” he wrote. “Activities will be available through teacher Schoology pages and will vary by grade level and teacher. Teachers have

“We are now waiting for a clear interpretation from the PA Department of Education (PDE) regarding the 180-day waiver and the 900/990 hours of instruction requirement,” he wrote. “It may not be as simple as stated in news reports. We will not ask our students to make up days that are not required to be made up by PDE. We need to be sure that we are following state laws. We will communicate additional information as we receive updates and clarification.”

Oxford Area School District

Oxford Area School District Superintendent David Woods has informed the school community that enrichment for all students will be provided by their teachers using the teacher web pages and learning management systems.

“We wish that students engage in the enrichment from their teachers; however, this enrichment will not be graded,” Woods wrote. Woods added that the impact of the closings on the calendar would be minimized, and graduation as well as the final day of school will be on time.

By Steven Hoffman Staff Writer

New restaurant opens in Oxford

Local officials turned out for a ribbon-cutting ceremony for HNT Chicken, the fifth location for the rapidly growing restaurant brand memory of his son, expressed his gratitude to HNT Chicken for the support.

Oxford officially welcomed the newest restaurant in town with a March 9 ribbon-cutting ceremony for HNT Chicken, a rapidly growing restaurant brand.

State Rep. John Lawrence, Oxford Borough manager Brian Hoover, Oxford mayor Phil Harris, and Oxford Mainstreet, Inc.

executive director Brian Wenzka were among a host of officials who turned out for the ribbon cutting and to welcome HNT Chicken officials Ronak Pandya and Rohan Pandya to Oxford. HNT Chicken is located at 66 S. 3rd Street, which was previously the longtime home of the Pizza Hut until it closed in 2019.

Wenzka noted that this is the 41st new business to open in Oxford since 2012.

The Oxford location is the fifth HNT Chicken location, according to Chance Harr, the company’s brand ambassador. A sixth location was set to debut in Connecticut on March 13.

The “HNT” in the restaurant’s name stands for “hot

Micro-transit...

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“It could be distinct to the Kennett area,” he said.

“You get a trolley, and people will see it from five blocks away. You’ll know where it is, you’ll know where it is going.”

and tender,” and the chicken offerings have been a big hit at the HNT restaurants that previously opened— including the three that are located in Philadelphia. The restaurant features a variety of classic chicken options, including chicken tenders and chicken sandwiches. A popular item on the menu is the HNT Box, which comes with a sandwich, a classic tender, hand-cut fries, and a medium drink. HNT

Signature Creations features 15 HNT bites dipped in barbecue honey, Thai, buffalo, or honey mustard sauces.

Guests can also choose from a variety of sides, including cole slaw, sweet potato fries, black beans, sweet golden corn, a side salad, and white rice.

Ronak Pandya said at the ribbon-cutting that their father has been in the restaurant business for decades.

“We have been interested in the chicken category for a long time, and based on our team’s deep experience with a variety of restaurants across the area, HNT is primed to be a major player in this popular segment,” Pandya said in a statement

Council member Peter Waterkotte agreed with Thomas, saying that he grew up in Pittsburgh, a city which was known for trolleys, and the trolleys are very distinctive for a community.

Echeverria said that one aspect of the study would be to look at who the potential ridership would be. They already reached out to the Kennett Area Community Service and the American Mushroom Institute for input about the needs for additional public transportation in the area.

Echeverria said that they should know soon whether the application is approved.

“We’ll hear back in April if we’re selected,” he said.

that was released to coincide with the ribbon-cutting ceremony. The company has plans to grow rapidly over the course of the next two years, especially in southeastern Pennsylvania.

HNT Chicken made an immediate effort to be an active participant in the community, partnering with the Oxford-based Eli Seth Matthews Leukemia Foundation on a fundraiser. The company pledged 20 percent of the opening day sales to the foundation, which is dedicated to the mission of helping to find a cure for childhood cancer.

“We don’t want to just serve a delicious meal,” Pandya said, “we also want to be part of the neighborhoods we serve. It’s very important to us that we become a positive force in our communities, and supporting a worthy nonprofit organization like the Eli Seth Matthews Leukemia Foundation is one way we can show our support for the southern Chester County community.”

Paul Matthews, who founded the Eli Seth Matthews Leukemia Foundation in

In other business at the March 2 meeting, borough council authorized the Special Event Applications for the Kennett Run on May 16, the Kennett Memorial Day Parade on May 25, and the Kennett Brewing Company’s 5th anniversary block party on June 20.

“These donations will help in our mission to fight childhood cancer,” Matthews

said. “We’re blessed by this and we’re grateful.”

The Oxford HNT Chicken is open from 10:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. each Sunday through Thursday and 10:30 a.m.

to 9:30 p.m. on Friday and Saturday.

To contact Staff Writer Steven Hoffman, email editor@chestercounty.com.

Oxford Chamber encouraging residents to join the ‘Take Out Blitz’

To contact Staff Writer Steven Hoffman, email editor@chestercounty .com. Penn Township...

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We have posted video on our website that is worth watching,” township Director of Operations

Karen Versuk said. “There have been decisions in Harrisburg involving Chester Water that are alarming.”

In other business, the supervisors read a proclamation recognizing Dylan Myers-DeMarco for his Eagle Scout project. Myers-DeMarco built teepees for the playground

at the Township Park. PA State Police Lt. Nicole Palmer spoke to the board and the audience, providing a report on crime statistics in 2019 as compared to 2018. Palmer has been station commander at the Avondale Barracks since October.

She reported that traffic citations are up from 744 in 2018 to over 1000 last year. There was a sharp drop in DUI crashes, dropping from 7 in 2018 to just one last year, while DUI arrests have gone up. Drug arrests are also down.

“Deaths have gone down.

I didn’t see any deathsdrug deaths really bother us,” she said.

Palmer reminded the public that the State Police will do house checks if requested. “If you are going on vacation this summer and want us to check your house, we do that,” she said. “Just call in.”

Mantegna asked if there was any reason why tractor trailer traffic has increased on Route 896. There were also complaints about speeding in the township, particularly along Ewing Road.

With Gov. Wolf’s directive for all nonessential businesses to close for two weeks – and the mandate for restaurants and bars to close dine-in service – the Oxford Area Chamber of Commerce is encouraging its residents to become a part of Take Out Blitz, an initiative to encourage them to purchase gift cards to their favorite retail stores and restaurants, as well as purchase take-out meals from their favorite Oxfordarea restaurants.

“The businesses in Oxford are trying to cope with this new reality. These business owners are our friends and neighbors,” said Christine Grove, executive director of the Oxford Area Chamber of Commerce.

“They, too, are juggling with having children out of school, have spouses

working from home and are coping with the lack of toilet paper in our area, so it is essential that we support them. Some businesses have been able to stay open with creative solutions involving delivery and pick up options.”

The Chamber is encouraging patrons to post photos and tag the restaurant they choose on social media.

“We will show our community just how powerful we can be when we work together. Over the next few weeks, we will work with community partners, local and government officials to support our business community,” Grove added. “Shop Local. Support Local. Take-Out Local.”

Crushed Stone Showers By Home Smart

Kennett High School’s Mini-THON raises $51,000

A dedicated and passionate group of 250 KHS students remained on their feet from 2 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Feb. 21 for Mini-THON, an event to raise money for the Four Diamonds Fund to benefit pediatric cancer research and families whose children are battling the disease. Through a variety of events, raffles, generous corporate contributions, and donations, students have worked tirelessly in pursuit of this year’s goal, and the donations continue to accrue. Despite the fact that this is Kennett’s fifth year sponsoring a MiniTHON, enthusiasm is certainly not waning.

Modeled after Penn State’s Dance Marathon (THON), Kennett High School’s Mini-THON featured eight hours packed with fun activities, music, and food, all with a carnival theme.

Benefactors of this year’s event include Diamond Level Sponsors Austin & Bednash and Chatham Financial; Gold Level Sponsors High Tech Auto Body, Kennett Education Foundation, and Sinton Air Conditioning and Heating; and Silver Level Sponsors Baccellieri Family Dentistry, Cricket Wireless Kennett Square, Kennett Copy & More, MacElree Harvey, and Perfect Impressions. In addition, Kennett’s Mini-THON was supported by twenty local businesses that donated food or money

Faculty advisors for the event were Lisa Teixeira, KHS librarian and Humanitarian Club moderator, and Shawn Duffy, social studies teacher and Humanitarian Club assistant moderator.

Twenty-five Mini-THON Executive Student Committee Members were led by senior event chairs Ian Dargitz and Ashley Willey, along with underclassman chairs Emma Henderson, Gavin Maxwell, and Grace Pruitt. Joining these student leaders for the event were Kennett alum Michael Bellino and several teacher chaperones.

While Mini-THON participants remained on their feet for eight hours, Kennett’s principal Dr. Jeremy Hritz takes that a step farther—thousands of steps farther actually. Hritz ran laps around the high school’s track for the duration of the event to demonstrate his support for the students and raise funds through contributions to his personal donor page. This year, he ran 41.73 miles, topping last year’s distance by over seven miles. Hritz offered high praise for the event, saying, “MiniTHON is a testament to the initiative and commitment of Kennett High School students. The student leadership involved in planning and executing such an event is incredible, and I am so proud of how our students put together an amazing event to

raise money to support an honorable cause. Our students are simply the best.”

Event co-chairs Ian Dargitz and Ashley Willey were ecstatic about the outcome of this year’s event. Dargitz commented, “Kennett is lucky to have a variety of kind, talented, and hardworking individuals, and their efforts paid dividends this year. Together, we have set a new record by raising over $50,000 for pediatric cancer treatment, and I am confident that our highly capable community will continue to outperform itself.”

Willey added, “MiniTHON 2020 was unbelievable. This year we decided to change things up and have Mini-THON after

school. Even though we had fewer participants, everyone was so dedicated, and we ended up raising a record amount! Also, we invited the Kennett community for community hour, and we were thrilled to welcome families for music, carnival games, and popcorn. The community is a huge factor in our success. I will remember this Mini-THON forever, and I am so grateful to be able to finish off my high school career this way.”

If you would like to make a donation, please visit the KHS Mini-THON page at https://fourdiamonds. donordrive.com/index. cfm?fuseaction=donorDrive. event&eventID=2657, search “Kennett High School donor drive” or call the school at 610-444-6617 for more information.

GAME CHANGER

One

day to have your say

The Pennsylvania Primary Election is coming up on Tuesday, April 28.

If you have registered to vote, it’s a day to have your say. The Primary Election determines who represents each party in races that are decided in the General Election, which will take place in November.

If you’re not yet registered to vote, the deadline to do so is April 13.

In some presidential election years, the two major political parties have already selected their nominees by the time the Pennsylvania Primary Election rolls around. That is not the case this year., which should be an added incentive for Pennsylvania residents to exercise their right to vote.

Considering the increased importance of the Pennsylvania Primary Election this year, there might be an assumption that turnout will be high. And it might be. But even with “high” turnout, only a fraction of registered voters will go to the polls.

For “party people,” those who are active participants in the Republican Party or the Democratic Party, and those who make politics a regular part of their lives, participation in the Primary Election is almost certain. But most of the “regular folks” will sit out the Primary Election. Even during the General Election, a shockingly large number of people won’t go to the polls.

Consider the 2016 election, which was notable for the large number of people who cast ballots.

There were approximately 225.7 million eligible voters in 2016. About 65.8 million people voted for Hilary Clinton, while another 62.9 million people voted for Donald Trump. There were still close to 100 million eligible voters, or nearly 43 percent of the total electorate, who did not vote.

Imagine if those 100 million people also voted. Would the government be more responsive to the needs of the poor and the working middle class if a much larger percentage of voters went to the polls and voted for the person who best represented their needs?

There’s a connection between the fact that most Americans believe the government isn’t serving them well and the fact that most Americans don’t vote each and every time they possibly can.

Our Democracy depends on participation—everybody’s participation.

Information about how to register in person, by mail, or online is available on Chester County’s website. Register to vote. And then have your say on Election Day.

Avondale, are we so divided that we can’t agree to allow election volunteers to be inside on election day?

Letter to the Editor:

In November of 2019, I suggested to the volunteers who were outside all day on election day that we petition to move the Avondale polling place to the Presbyterian Church so everyone could be inside and protected from the weather. Both Republicans and Democrats agreed. I reached out to Voter Services and the Church. The goal was to move all volunteers and voters who could be waiting to vote, to be able to be inside and protected from the weather. I later learned that the Avondale Borough Building is not ADA compliant. As an advocate for people with disabilities, I thought that was all the more reason to move the polling place to the church. After some emails and vis-

its and consideration, it was agreed initially by both party leaders that moving would be good for the community. Unfortunately, since that initial consideration, one political party zone leader has chosen to no longer support the effort. She feels that moving the polling place was somehow a move against the Avondale Borough Hall renovation project. The request to move the polling place had nothing to do with the renovations. These two issues are separate from each other. The Borough hopes that the polling place may be ready for November and then would be ADA compliant when it is completed. Still, there is no guarantee that the building would be completed for the November election, and we know for sure that it would not be available for the

Primary in April. Since the one party changed positions and has voted “no” to move the polling place, the change will not take place. Under the rules of polling place determination, both political parties must agree to a move. Have we really become this divided in Avondale?

Is one party choosing to force voters and volunteers to be outside for the day when there is an excellent option currently available in the community really a good way to serve the community?

It is disappointing that the political division has become so great that there can’t be a bipartisan agreement to do something for the good of all our residents. Sadly, instead of supporting the voters and volunteers of both political parties, one side is digging their heels. They have the

power to say no, but they also have the power to work for the greater good for the community and say yes. Let’s put partisan politics aside and work together to keep volunteers and voters safe, dry and warm.

If you agree that we should move the polling place to get voters and volunteers safely inside, I’m asking you to please call or send an email to those who have the power to make that happen.

The Chester County Democratic Party can be reached at 610-692-5811 and office@chescodems.org. The Chester County Republican Party can be reached at 610-696-1842. No email is listed on their website www. republicanccc.com.

Opinion Time to reject Socialism in America

By Christopher Gerber

As we look forward to the 2020 presidential election, it appears likely that Americans will be faced with a choice of two very different ideologies: one that espouses capitalism, self-motivation and ingenuity versus socialism and its empty and destructive promises of free housing, college and healthcare for everyone. The platform of Bernie

Chadds Ford Elementary School presents 71st annual Art Show and Sale

Chadds Ford Elementary School will present its 71st annual Art Show & Sale on March 20 and 21. The event, held at the school, will showcase more than 65 local and regional artists, and will once again include a visit from Karl J. Kuerner, whose family’s farm was the inspiration for many of the late Andrew Wyeth’s paintings.

The adults-only opening reception takes place on Friday, March 20 from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m., and will feature music, complimentary hors d’oeuvres, and an opportunity to meet and talk with the artists, many of whom will be available to sign or personalize their work.

The family-friendly exhibit and sale is Saturday, March 21 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Exhibiting artists display and sell their work in an

array of mediums to satisfy every taste and budget. The show, which is free and open to the public, also spotlights local artisans, whose crafts include jewelry, wooden items, glass, and much more.

This year’s Featured Artist is Rick Phillips, whose style, critics say, is “reminiscent of 19th century painters who used the richness of light and color to create atmosphere that could almost be touched.” Philips’ 24” x 24”

Chester County Press

oil painting titled “From the Garden” will be available for purchase on stretched canvas.

The show’s Donating Artist is Stephen Brehm, who seeks to capture light and shadow with loose, direct, and vibrant brushwork, and to portray a gesture or object with as few strokes as needed.

An art class (pre-registration required) will be offered by artist Christine Burke from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. For $22 per person, adults and children ages six and up can paint their own Kuerner Hill masterpiece in a relaxing “paint party” atmosphere.

To purchase tickets go to http://bit.ly/chaddsfordpaintparty or contact Christine Burke at 302-419-6401 or email info@liveyourcreativity.com. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to Chadds Ford Elementary.

A raffle featuring many local items and services is drawn at the event’s conclusion. Proceeds support educational enrichment programs at Chadds Ford Elementary.

Sanders is insane and as un-

American as it can get. The greatness of America arises from her entrepreneurial spirit and freedoms that allow anyone to enjoy success based upon individual achievement and sacrifice. This nation was not built upon a centralized polity that redistributes private wealth and controls all aspects of our life, which Sanders envisions. Quite the opposite. The founders took great care to avoid this by structuring a republic with strong states’ rights and a limited federal government. Sanders’ disdain for capitalism may have appeal to those who have little or no net worth; however, his ideas would stifle competition and growth and imperil the very fabric that makes this country great.

Everyone should take a hard look at the gravity of Sanders’ intentions. Read his website. He seeks to empower the state beyond any viable candidate before him. For instance, he wants government to force private employers to require “just cause” before an employee may be terminated. No state in the union has endorsed this prohibitive rule and overreaching control over private enterprise. He also wants to impose a “national rent control standard” and ensure “fair housing for all.” This is all code for a centralized state that would end up controlling all facets of our lives. This twisted un-American ideology must be flatly rejected. I especially implore younger voters who may be tempted by promises of free education

and debt forgiveness. I offer this piece of advice: Work hard. Work hard. And work hard. You and your family will enjoy the fruits of your labor, and you will be proud of yourself. God bless America, and thank God you enjoy her freedoms that allow us all to pursue happiness without government telling us how to achieve it.

Chester County accidental deaths decline slightly

The Chester County Coroner’s Office has released information on 2019 accidental deaths in Chester County. A total of 225 accidental deaths were investigated, slightly fewer than in 2018 (232 accidental deaths) and 2017 (234 accidental deaths). Drug overdoses, falls, and motor vehicle collisions accounted for most of the accidental deaths.

Drug overdose remained the most common cause of accidental death in the county, comprising 46 percent of such deaths. A total of 104 accidental drug overdoses were reported, a 7-percent decrease compared to 2018. This continues a downward trend from the peak of 144 overdose deaths in 2017. White men in the 25-to-34 and 35-to-44 age groups continued to be the predominant demographic group dying of a drug overdose. Fentanyl, present in more than two-thirds of cases, remained by far the most frequently identified substance on toxicology testing. The majority of drug overdose deaths involved multiple substances. Heroin, cocaine, and ethanol were each present in approximately 25 percent of cases. Xylazine, a large animal anesthetic often used to adulterate illicit drugs in

this County, was present in approximately 23 percent of cases.

Coroner Christina VandePol, M.D., stated, “The intense efforts to combat the opioid epidemic appear to be having an impact, at least as far as fatal overdoses. Hopefully, we have turned a corner, but it’s still a tragedy when more than 100 people in our county die of a preventable cause. Many of these deaths are now occurring in people who have sought and received treatment or who have been incarcerated, so in my opinion we need to take a closer look at those situations to see how we can do better.”

Falls continued to be the second most common cause of accidental death, but unlike drug overdose deaths, deaths

attributed to falls are on the rise. In 2017, 45 people died after a fall but this increased to 76 in 2019. The percentage of accidental deaths from falls rose from 19 percent in 2017 to 27 percent in 2018 and then 34 percent in 2019. “The increased incidence of falls as a preventable cause of death is alarming,” said VandePol. “It reflects the aging of our population, as almost 80 percent of fallrelated deaths are in those over the age of 80. The actual incidence is probably higher, because we are not always notified when an elderly person dies after a fall. Analysis of fall-related and other preventable deaths in our older residents has been and will continue to be a focus of the Coroner’s Office.”

Kennett Middle School art on display at Brandywine River Museum

Students

studied woman’s suffrage movement and produced posters

on the

By Chris Barber Contributing Writer

Artwork produced by more than 160 students from Kennett Middle School is on display at the Brandywine River Museum of Art as part of the museum’s “Votes for Women: A Visual History” exhibition.

The exhibition marks the 100th anniversary of the Nineteenth Amendment to the Constitution of the United States, which granted women the right to vote.

This visual history exhibition, which fills the first floor gallery at the museum, includes drawings, illustrations, posters, photographs and costumes. It examines the visual culture of the suffrage movement and is on display until June 7.

As part of the show, the art department of Kennett Middle School was invited by the museum to study the Suffrage Movement and produce small posters relevant to the era.

Art teachers Maryanne

subject

Uhl and Amanda Clapp undertook the project by first educating their students about women’s suffrage with a PowerPoint presentation and then leading them in producing the art pieces.

Uhl said the students were then helped to search out images online and then rummage through printed materials to get what they needed for their work. The project took about five weeks in total, Uhl said. The many posters were then sent over to the museum, framed, and hung for display.

The work covers the walls of the downstairs ground level gallery and will remain through May. The posters show advocacy for women’s suffrage through the students’ eyes in several media, ranging from pencil sketches and collage to painting and photography.

A reception was recently held for the students, their friends, and their relatives to come and see the show. It included refreshments

and musical entertainment by the Kennett High School String Quartet. There was a large turnout, with many of the student artists brought along their parents and grandparents.

Liesl Mahoney, the Associate Educator for School and Family Programs at the Brandywine River Museum of Art, said shows like this one featuring work by students from nearby schools are presented three times a year.

DORIS SIMPKINS PREWITT

Doris Simpkins Prewitt, 96, of Oxford, passed away on March 11 at Jenners Pond, surrounded by her loving family. She was born November 18, 1923 in Salem, Va. as the youngest of six children to Clarence and Patie Dickerson Simpkins. She was preceded in death by her husband, Arvil W. Prewitt and grandson, Livingston Tracy Prewitt.

She leaves behind three children: Arvil Wayne Prewitt, II (Janet) of Oxford; Jewell Prewitt Mullins (Ronald) of Oxford; and Kevin B. Prewitt (Linda) of Rising Sun, Md. Doris was the grandmother of five, as well as the greatgrandmother of five.

Doris was a member of the Jennersville Church of the Brethren in West Grove, and an auxiliary member of the American Legion Mason Dixon Post #194 in Rising Sun, Md.

A stay-at-home mother who cared dearly for her family, Doris loved to make quilts for all the newborns in her family. During the winter of 2018, she helped assemble, tie and hem 17 quilts for the Linus Project. Funeral services were held on March 16 at the Edward L. Collins, Jr. Funeral Home in Oxford. Interment was held in Brick Friends Meeting Cemetery in Rising Sun.

A special thank you to all the staff of Jenners Pond, Willow Tree Hospice and Jennersville Regional Hospital. Arrangements were made by the Edward L. Collins, Jr. Funeral Home, Inc., in Oxford. On-line condolences may be made at www.elcollinsfuneralhome.com.

ANTHONY JOSEPH “BUCKY” BACCHETTA

Anthony Joseph “Bucky” Bacchetta, age 85, passed away on March 9 at Jennersville Regional Hospital. He was born on July 7, 1934, and was born and raised in Avondale. He was the son of Vincenzo and Mary Bacchetta, originally from Abruzzo province of Italy. He is survived by his six children: Rose Marie Scope (Steve) of New Mexico; Antonette Fitz of California; Anthony “Bucky, Jr.” Bacchetta (Mary) of Wilmington, Del.; Mary Jo Hoffman (Bill) of South Carolina; Edward Bacchetta (Theresa) of Newark, Del.; and Barbara Ciuffetelli (Bernie) of West Grove. He is also survived by his brother Vincent “Jimmy” Bacchetta (Sue) of South Carolina; a sister, Antoinette DiEdwardo of New York; nine grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.

Bucky graduated from Kennett High School in 1953, and after serving in the US Army in Alaska as a ski trooper, he worked in his family’s mushroom growing business for many years, drove long distance trucking, and eventually was a Deputy Sheriff of Chester County before retiring. He loved playing pool at the Hockessin VFW Post 5892, where he also served as Post Commander and became a long-time member of the American Legion. He was well known in the area and loved his daily coffee klatch at the local McDonalds. He never met a person he didn’t like and always had something witty to say. He will be missed dearly by all who knew him.

Bucky’s family will greet relatives and friends from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on March 28, 2020, at the Kuzo Funeral Home, 250 West State Street in Kennett Square. A celebration of his life will follow at 12:30 p.m., and burial will be held privately.

Memorial donations can be made in lieu of flowers to the VFW Post 5892, P.O. Box 231, Hockessin, Del. 19707 or to Willow Tree Hospice, 616 E. Cypress Street, Kennett Square, Pa. 19348.

ROE F. KIRK

Roe F. Kirk, 80, passed peacefully at his home on March 7. He is survived by Alpha F. Kirk, his wife of 60 years, and five children: Donna Purcell (husband Steven); Linda Kirk; Daniel Kirk; Franci Kirk; and Brenda Kirk; as well as nine grandchildren, eight great grandchildren, and one sister, Bonnie Greer of North Carolina. Roe was a member of the Truth and Life Center in North East, Md.

A special thanks to Roe’s granddaughter Mandy and her husband, Carlos Garduno. Services and burial were private.

JOAN M. THOMPSON

Joan M. Thompson (Sloyer), 86, of Coatesville, passed away peacefully on March 7 at the Pocopson Home, from Alzheimer’s. She is survived by Charles B. Thompson, Jr., her husband of 57 years; her sisters Dillone Williams and Beverly Boyd; her children Cindy Lieberman, Glenn Thompson, Mick Thompson and Tina Rivera; grandchildren Scott Weigner, Rob Thompson, Steve Weigner, Bradley Thompson, Heather Weigner, Shannon Thompson, Mike Weigner, Ben Lieberman, Nikki McCann; and by numerous great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her sister, Anne; brothers George, Glenn, Thomas, Ronald, Lester and Barry; and by granddaughter, Jennifer Thompson.

William J. Turner

120 Doe Lane, Kennett Square, PA 19348 302-760-3190

wjt4th@outlook.com

When I called, you answered me; you made

To view his online tribute and to share a memory with his family, please visit www.kuzoandfoulkfh.com.

Obituary submissions

The Chester County Press publishes obituaries, free of

for those with a connection to southern Chester County. Obituaries appear on the Wednesday after they are received, space permitting. They also are posted on www.chestercounty.com. Photos should be sent as .jpg attachments to the obituary text. To submit an obituary to the Chester County Press, email the information to: editor@chestercounty.com.

Joan was a dental assistant for Dr. Scott of Coatesville during the 1960s, and a secretary at Lincoln University during the 1970s. She and her husband managed Lands’ End Apartments in Lindenwold, N.J. from 1981-1995. A celebration of life and luncheon will be held at Portabella’s Restaurant, 108 E State St. in Kennett Square on April 10, beginning at 10:30 a.m.. There is a parking garage directly across the one way street from the restaurant. Please contact the family for more information

CHAD STOUT

Chad Stout, 46, passed away on March 8, to the lines of the song

“Knocking on Heavenʼs Door.”

In the town of West Grove, anyone who saw a guy with jogging pants and his favorite Dallas Cowboys hat would recognize Chad. He was the caring son of Jacqualynn Sedlak Stout and Edward V. Stout Jr.; father to his beloved son, Jared; a loving brother to his sister, Suzanne Stout Hill and her husband Robert Hill and their children Ryan, Ethan and Brandon.

Despite the times of hardship that he faced, Chad always upheld the kindest of hearts to anyone he encountered. Chad is most noted for his avid interest in and collection of sports memorabilia; in particular, the Dallas Cowboys, his favorite team. He loved to garden and take care of the animals. Chad will be dearly missed and is followed not only by his mother, father, sister, and son but also his brother in law, and will live on in the memories of his many aunts uncles and cousins.

Service will be held at Foulk Funeral Home, 200 Rose Hill Road, West Grove, PA 19390 on March 20 at 1:00 p.m. Burial will be private.

To view his online tribute and to share a memory with his family, please visit www.kuzoandfoulkfh.com.

By Richard L. Gaw Staff Writer

There, they

and

dairy – all produced on farms located less than an hour away from the borough. It’s a trip back in time, where conversations between growers and buyers are engaging and educational, collegial and essential.

Two-and-a-half years ago, Britton Elwood had lunch with an employee of Weaver’s Way food co-op in Philadelphia. Over a bowl of rice and vegetables, she shared her idea to create a seven-day-a-week natural foods grocery store, where shoppers would be able to purchase healthier food options for their families and themselves.

Elwood’s lunch date suggested that she explore the idea of creating a food co-op – a concept that would enable shoppers to take partial ownership in the business. Within months, the idea that began over lunch became the first seed on the ground that formed into the Kennett Food Co-Op.

Now, after two years of planning and the engage-

Kennett Community Grocer concept takes healthy steps forward

ment in the community, the company – now known as Kennett Community Grocer – is about halfway to becoming a centrallylocated reality. In 2017, they held their first community meeting; in Dec. 2018, they began a membershipownership drive that has now reached 115; elected a seven-member board of directors; conducted preliminary feasibility studies; and re-branded their name and mission so as not to confuse its mission with that of the Kennett Food Cupboard, which is associated with Kennett Area Community Service.

It is part of a four-step process that will enable Kennett Community Grocer to set its sights on obtaining a minimum of 400 member-owners over the next few years. In addition, the next steps will include a site search; obtaining the necessary funding to begin construction and additional funding; announcing the selected site; initiating and completing construction or renovation of an existing location; hiring and training staff and installing equipment; and ordering stock and inventory.

“We felt like we needed to invest those first few years in showing the community that we were an entity they could have trust in – that this vision is happening,” Elwood said. “It’s hard to invest in a vision but we wanted to make sure that our brand said ‘Yes. This will become a store one

day.’”

Although the business refers to “Kennett” in its name, it also has the word “Community” in it, as well, which co-founder Maureen O’Shea and Elwood said serves as an official welcome to residents throughout the entire county and beyond. No matter where they will eventually arrive from, the needs of the customers-tobe, Elwood said, are helping to drive the narrative of how the store will serve them.

“They are telling us that they want a better connection to the local and abundant agriculture here, so we’re about tapping into that resource,” she said. “We want to connect the community to the local circle that will provide them with access to local food. This will also serve as an outlet for these farmers to connect with the people.”

When the key first turns on the Kennett Community Grocer, Elwood and O’Shea said it will become more

than simply a location to buy locally-sourced food. The store will also simplify the often dizzying language of the natural food movement for its customers.

“A big part of this idea is about education,” O’Shea said. “We’re here to help the public break down those buzz words, because it is confusing. They’re asking, ‘Should I buy organic from the west coast or local here? Is it okay if it’s conventionally grown if it is local?’

Helping give the consumers that information to make appropriate decisions for their families will be a big part of Kennett Community Grocer.”

“When you go into the co-op, you will meet the farmer who grows your food,” Elwood said. “You will know that ‘local’ means ‘local,’ and that we will source and use practices that are sustainable and good for the environment.

“We will also be able to support the whole commu-

nity, and provide equitable access to local foods.”

In early March, many of the Kennett Community Grocer board members attended the Up and Coming Food Coop Conference in Wisconsin, to learn more about starting a food-co-op in the Kennett Square area. Attending the conference confirmed that they are swept up in a surging wave that is backed by numbers: As of May 2018, Food Co-op Initiative has seen 154 new retail food co-ops open in the U.S.. The Initiative’s data reported that Food co-ops have created over 1,600 jobs during that time; added $180 million in annual sales to the cooperative business economy; recruited more than 160,000 member/owners; and supported local economies and local food producers.

For Elwood, O’Shea and the Kennett Community Grocer board and its volunteers, the heavy lifting of getting the concept from

idea to reality is still ahead of them, with one key goal ahead of everything else: Acquire 1,000 members/ owners by the time the store can be built.

Although the recruitment goal seems daunting at times, “We are on the cusp of a national movement for families to reclaim their food system,” Elwood said. “It is great to advocate and talk to politicians, but its starts at home, and what you do for your neighbors and your community. That is the embodiment of Kennett Community Grocer.” Kennett Community Grocer is beginning an initiative to recruit more volunteers to help the co-op with community building. To learn more about volunteering and becoming a member-owner, visit www. kennettsquarefood.coop.

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

March 21 Easter Egg Hunt

Russellville Grange will sponsor an Easter Egg Hunt on Saturday, March 21 at 1 p.m. at Upper Oxford Township Community Park in Upper Oxford Township. The park’s entrance is located on Catamount Road across from Brookside Nursery. Questions may be emailed to russellvillejuniorgrange@yahoo.com.

March 22

Men’s Lenten breakfast celebrates 57th year

All men of the Oxford area and beyond are

invited to Oxford United Methodist Church (18 Addison Street, Oxford) for the 57th annual men’s Lenten breakfast on Sunday, March 22. The morning begins at 7 a.m. with worship in the sanctuary, followed by a delicious breakfast in the fellowship hall. The men’s Lenten breakfast is celebrating 57 years of giving men the chance to worship and fellowship together. There is certain to be good singing, good worship, and good food. The church office can be reached at 610-9329698 or oumcsecretary@ gmail.com.

Very large furnished 2-1/2 bedroom, 2nd oor in a large Victorian Home. Heat & Electric included. No Pets. Non-Smoker. $1300.

March 28

5K cross country color run

The Oxford Arts Alliance strives to help ensure the local community will flourish. One way to promote the arts and healthy living is a family fun run with a splash of color. The color run will take place on Saturday, March 28 on the property of Vicki and Wilson King, the owners of Outback Trading Company. Registration begins at 9 a.m. and the run will start at 10 a.m. This event will be untimed, encouraging people of all abilities to participate. Runners and

R Samuel McMichael, Esquire P O Box 296 Oxford PA 19363 3p-18-1t BID NOTICE

ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS PRO-

POSALS will be received online via the PennBID Program by the Board of Supervisors, Penn Township, Chester County, Pennsylvania until 12:00 P.M., Prevailing Time, on Wednesday, April 29, 2020 for the following: The bid consists of Resurfacing State Road from the Kelton Road west to New London Township Line for an approximate length of 3,700 L.F. with areas of 10” Base Repair as directed, Resurfacing Woodview Road from Ewing Drive to the London Grove Township Line for an approximate length of 350 L.F. x 19’ wide including approximately 1,000 S.F. (50’x19’) of 10” base repair, Miscellaneous pavement repairs on Hilton Road at Phillips Mill Road for an approximate area of 180 S.F. including 10” Base Repair, and Resurfacing on Phillips Mill Road at Hilton Road for an approximate length of 200 L.F. x 20’ wide. All Bids will be publicly opened and read aloud by the Township at 1:00 P.M. Prevailing Time, on Wednesday, April 29, 2020 at the Penn Township Building, 260 Lewis Road, West Grove, PA 19390. Copies of the Form of Proposal and Specifications are available at no cost at www.PennBID.net. 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. Each bid must be accompanied by a signed commitment of the proposed surety offering to execute a Performance

walkers can traverse the course at their leisure under a shower of vibrant color from our volunteer-based color stations throughout the course. For more information or to register, visit www.oxfordart.org/ color-run.

March 28

Designer purse bingo

A designer purse bingo event will be held on Saturday, March 28 at Redman’s Hall (114 Brick Road in Oxford). Doors open at 6 p.m. and bingo begins at 7 p.m. There will be 20 fun games with popular purses—Coach, Kate

Bond, as well as the Letter of Intent, Non-Collusion Affidavit and the Public Works Employment Verification Form. All Bidders must be prequalified by the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation. All Forms and Papers required to accompany the bid must be up-loaded to PennBID prior to the date and time bids are to be received. The successful Bidder will be required to furnish a Contractor’s Performance Bond and a Labor and Materialmen’s Bond in an amount of the accepted bid. 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. No bidder may withdraw his/ her bid within sixty (60) days after the date set for the receiving and opening of bids. Pennsylvania prevailing wage rates will apply to this project, in addition to any and all other applicable federal, state, and local laws, statutes, ordinances, rules and regulations. Penn Township reserves the right to reject any or all proposals or parts thereof for any cause whatsoever. By Order of the Penn Township Board of Supervisors, Karen Versuk,BA, MBA, PhD Director of Operations 3p-18-2t

ESTATE NOTICE

ADVERTISEMENT FOR GRANT OF LETTERS ESTATE OF Barbara W. Schneeman LATE OF East Nottingham Township, Chester County, Pennsylvania Executor: Georgeanna Singley, 150 Turners Pond Dr., Lincoln University,

Spade, Michael Kors, Vera Bradley, Ralph Lauren—as prizes. The proceeds from the event will be used to support Oxford Little League baseball and softball. Contact Jen Carter at info@oxfordll.org.

March 28 to March 29

UTHON

March 28 through May 3

Spring blooms at Longwood Gardens Relish being outdoors as Longwood’s 1,100 acres herald the arrival of spring. Enjoy the award-winning outdoor bulb display, culminating in a rainbow of more than 250,000 spring bulbs blooming in our famed Flower Garden Walk and Idea Garden. Flowering trees, shrubs, and other burgeoning blooms herald the arrival of spring throughout the landscape.

Unionville High School has joined hundreds of schools and Four Diamonds in the movement to conquer childhood cancer by hosting a ten-hour MiniTHON starting at 8 p.m. on March 28 and continuing until 6 a.m. on March 29. The event takes place at Unionville High School (750 Unionville Road in Kennett Square).

PA, 19352 Attorney: Ira D. Binder, 227 Cullen Rd, Oxford, PA 19363 3p-18-3t

ESTATE NOTICE

Estate of Joan Frances Colby, a/k/a Joan F. Colby, Late of West Bradford Township, PA, LETTERS TESTAMENTARY on the above Estate have been granted to the undersigned, who request all persons having claims or demands against the estate of the decedent to make known the same and all persons indebted to the decedent to make payment without delay William A. Colby, 1024 Lieds Road, Coatesville, PA 19320 , Executor, Or Attorney : Robert J. Breslin, Jr., Esq., Pappano & Breslin, 3305 Edgemont Ave. Brookhaven, PA, 19015 3p-18-3t

PUBLIC NOTICE

AT&T proposes to replace an existing 24.4’ wood utility pole with a new 42.5’ wood utility pole and install a topmounted antenna at 46’

April 11

Mr. and Mrs. Easter

Bunny in Oxford

Stop by Oxford Feed and Lumber (112 Railroad Avenue in Oxford) on Saturday, April 11 to see Mr. and Mrs. Easter Bunny. Bring the entire family out to the annual Chick and Bunny Day. Children and pets can get a free photo opportunity with Mr. and Mrs. Easter Bunny. Bring your own camera for the photos. Ducks, chicks, and bunnies will be available for children to hold. Oxford Feed and Lumber will be collecting eggs (chicken or store-bought eggs) for Oxford Neighborhood Services Center during the event.

April 18

Healthy Kids Day

Join the Kennett Area YMCA for the annual Healthy Kids Day event in downtown Kennett Square. This is an open-air street fair on Broad Street between Cypress and Juniper streets. Enjoy vendors, healthy snacks, games, inflatables, activities and more. The event takes place from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

April 25

Rare plant auction

The Delaware Center for Horticulture will celebrate its 40th and final rare plant auction at Longwood Gardens on Saturday, April 25. For this most special night in the rare plant auction’s storied history, the plans will incorporate features from past events, including the live auction, celebrated plant experts and special friends, and more. The event takes

place from 6:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. at Longwood Gardens (1001 Longwood Road in Kennett Square).

May 2

Kennett High School

Craft Fair

Kennett High School will be hosting the 2nd Annual Craft Fair on Saturday, May 2, between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. in the Reynolds Gymnasium. More than 70 vendors will be participating. Kennett High School is located at 100 East South St. in Kennett Square.

May 7 through Sept. 27

Longwood Gardens

Festival of Fountains

Summer at Longwood makes a splash as the Gardens’ fountain collection jets to life. The Main Fountain Garden offers jaw-dropping performances daily and extended hours for illuminated fountain performances on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday evenings. Guests can also enjoy the Open Air Theatre fountains, which perform daily, as well as the picturesque Italian Water Garden, which offers a cool respite from the warm summer sun. The wildly popular Fireworks & Fountains Shows return with six new shows as well. Festival of Fountains also features the Gardens in their summer splendor. Flowering annuals and perennials abound, as well as the breathtaking waterlily display that showcases aquatic plants from all over the world. Guests can also embark on a walk in the expansive Meadow Garden, enjoy a shaded stroll among Longwood’s historic trees,

and enjoy sitting under the stars with family and friends in the popular Beer Garden.

May 9 and 10

Enjoy the Willowdale Steeplechase and Longwood Gardens on the same weekend

Visitors to Chester County can enjoy Longwood Gardens, one of the great gardens of the world, together with one of the region’s finest horse racing events, the Willowdale Steeplechase, on Mother’s Day weekend. Known for its historic battlefields and rolling hills, the home of Andrew Wyeth, the legacy of the du Pont family, and world- famous horse country, the Brandywine Valley is a wonderland of history, tradition and beautiful landscapes. Visitors who purchase the special Mother’s Day weekend package will first experience top-level horses racing over jumps, elegant tailgating, shopping and family activities at the Willowdale Steeplechase on Saturday, May 9, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. On Saturday evening, visitors can take in a 9:15 p.m. illuminated fountain performance at Longwood Gardens, and then retreat either to the historic Hotel du Pont in Wilmington, Del. or the Hilton Garden Inn in Kennett Square, one mile from Longwood Gardens. On Sunday, May 10 visitors can celebrate Mother’s Day by strolling through the exquisite world-class gardens of Longwood. For more information or to reserve your package, visit the Longwood Gardens website at longwoodgardens.org.

May 16

Kennett Run

The Kennett Run Charities has always been about giving back to the community. This year’s Kennett Run takes place from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, May 16. Activities take place at various points throughout the borough with the race concluding in Anson B Nixon Park (405 North Walnut Road in Kennett Square).

May 16

Tough Mudder Philly-2020 Tough Mudder is headed back to Plantation Field in 2020. With courses from 3 miles to 10 miles, these mud-soaked, tree-lined trails across rolling grassy hills will challenge you— no matter your fitness level. After you finish the course, join the party in the Mudder Village Festival, including craft beer, a music DJ, local food trucks, games and so much more. The event takes place at the Plantation Field Horse Trials (Green Valley Road off Route 82 in Unionville).

June 7

Clover Market

Kennett Square

The Clover Market Kennett Square event takes place on Sunday, June 7 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The location for the event is at 600 S. Broad Street in Kennett Square.

June 26

An evening of wine and chocolate

An evening of wine and chocolate will be held on June 26 at a mystery location situated in the rolling

hills near Marshallton. This year’s estate is owned by a local artist and sits next to the vineyard. Savor the summer evening with special wine tastings, appetizing hors d’oeuvres, and delectable chocolate desserts. The hours for the event are 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. This event raises funds for United Way of Southern Chester County. Learn more at www.unitedwayscc.org.

Kennett Flash schedule

The Kennett Flash (102 Sycamore Alley, Kennett Square) hosts regional and national artists in its intimate venue. Tickets are available in advance at www.kennettflash.org, or at the door. Snacks and beverages are sold, or guests can BYOB. Upcoming shows include: Proud Monkey, a tribute to Dave Matthews Band (March 20, tickets are $20) will bring the eightpiece band that formed in 2002 to Kennett Square. Proud Monkey is the only Dave Matthews Band tribute band that operates with no setlist limitations. Doors open at 7 p.m. and the show begins at 8 p.m.; The mother-daughter duo of Suzzy Roche and Lucy Wainwright Roche will be performing (March 21, tickets are $30) in Kennett Square. Their show is a fun-filled evening of smart, thoughtful, songs with plenty of familial harmonies. Their recording “Fairytale and Myth,” the first recording collaboration between them, won the Vox Pop best singer/songwriter CD for the Independent Music Awards. And their new CD called “Mud and Apples” has also been nom-

inated for an Independent Music Award. Doors open at 7 p.m. and the show begins at 8 p.m.; The Dukes of Destiny will be performing at the Kennett Flash (March 27, $18 in advance and $23 on the day of the show), bringing their unique style of playing some of the hottest, most danceable blues, and old-school soul; The Rock Orchestra returns to the Kennett Flash, performing an evening of Jethro Tull (March 28); The following evening, Corky Laing plays Mountain, celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Mississippi Cowbell Tour (March 29 at 7 p.m.).

Oct. 1 through Nov. 15 Autumn’s colors at Longwood Gardens Longwood Gardens embraces the harvest season with pumpkins and thousands of chrysanthemums that are indoors and out. The miniature Garden Railway delights guests young and old with its fanciful cars and engines, and the fountain shows continue daily through Nov. 1, with illuminated fountain performances every Thursday, Friday and Saturday evening through Oct. 31. The Chrysanthemum Festival (Oct. 22 to Nov. 15) spotlights Longwood’s horticulture expertise as chrysanthemums are crafted and grown into extraordinary shapes, some taking as long as 18 months to complete. The highlight of the display is the Thousand Bloom Chrysanthemum, a single chrysanthemum that boasts more than 1,500 uniform blooms on a single plant.

CONNECT WITH AN ACTIVE LIFE

Quality orthopedic care, right in your community.

Join us this March for one of our FREE seminars hosted by our expert orthopedists and discover all you need to know about maintaining an active life.

FRACTURE PREVENTION

WHEN: March 11 (4 to 5 p.m.)

WHERE: Brandywine Hospital, Spackman Center Conference Room, Upper Level

BALANCE & FALLS PREVENTION

WHEN: March 26 (6 to 7 p.m.)

WHERE: Brandywine Hospital, Spackman Center Conference Room, Upper Level

Connect with your healthiest by registering today at TowerHealth.org/Seminars or calling 610.383.8057