Chester County Press 02-08-17 Edition

Zoning amendments make way for unique mixed-use design in township

By Richard L. Gaw Staff Writer

With swift strokes from three pens, Kennett Township opened the door last week for what very well may be a groundbreaking way of living for hundreds of residents in the near future.

The township’s board of supervisors – Chairman Scudder Stevens and members Whitney Hoffman and Dr. Richard Leff – gave approval at their Feb. 1 meeting to the adoption

of Ordinances 262 and 263, which will permit the Traditional Neighborhood Development design concept to eventually be allowed to be built in the township.

The board agreed to work on minor amendments to the ordinances that were recommended by the Chester County Planning Commission and the township zoning officer, over the next month.

Traditional Neighborhood Development (TND) refers to the construction of a com-

plete neighborhood or town using traditional design planning principles. TND may occur in landfill settings and involve adaptive use of existing buildings, but often involves all-new construction on previously undeveloped land.

To qualify as a TND, a project should include a wide range of housing types, a network of well-connected streets or blocks, public spaces, and have amenities such as stores, schools, and

Details emerge about drug ring busted in January

By John Chambless Staff Writer

For neighbors of a Lower Oxford man, Jan. 26 was a day of anxiety as multiple police departments and a helicopter closed in on the home of Richard Allan “Ricky” Maitre II, in the 300 block of Conner Road in Lower Oxford Township. Maitre, police say, was operating a large drug ring for more than a year before he was apprehended in the surprise raid last month. He had been under surveillance

KSQ Mushroom Cap 13.1 to kick off Nov. 4

by agents from the Chester County Detectives and the State Police Troop J Vice and Narcotics Unit for several weeks, and his phone conversations were being monitored.

Maitre, 27, and dozens of his associates are being held in Chester County Prison. A criminal complaint written by detective Jeremy Rubincan and state trooper Stephen Peterson was filed in Avondale District Court on Jan. 12. Maitre is facing charges of drug possession

Half-marathon event readies for its second run

By Richard L. Gaw Staff Writer

When 700 competitors in the first KSQ Victory Mushroom Cap 13.1 race in Kennett Square first arrived at the Kennett High School track in the early morning of Oct. 15, 2016, they stretched and limbered up nearly in darkness. By the time the race started soon after, they ran through Willowdale, along North Mill Road, Poplar Tree Road and Wollaston Road with the newly-risen sun against their backs.

For race organizers Sarah Nurry and Karen DiMascola, the sudden and bright illumination served as a parallel to nearly a

year of planning that was guided, in part, by the light of others – volunteers, elected and appointed officials, and the cooperation of Kennett Square residents.

Now, for the follow-up race, scheduled for Nov. 4 at Kennett High School, Nurry and DiMascola are already tweaking the current model in an effort to match – or surpass – last year’s inaugural event.

“The one thing I really learned about last year’s race was that we live in an amazing community,” Nurry said. “Karen and I knew what we enjoyed as runners, and that’s what we wanted to bring to this

East Marlborough Supervisors

clear way for car wash on Onix Drive

By John Chambless Staff Writer

A car wash that will be built behind the Bank of America on Onix Drive took a big step toward the start of construction on Monday night as the East Marlborough Board of Supervisors gave final approval to a land develop-

ment plan for the facility.

The plan incorporated suggestions from several previous meetings with the township supervisors and zoning board. The car wash will have a water reclamation system that will capture 70 percent of the water used by customers, as well as heated pavement from the car wash exit to

Onix Drive that will keep ice from forming in cold weather. There will be vacuum stations at the facility, and all chemicals used will be fully biodegradable, so they won’t affect the sewer treatment process, according to developer Ed Henry, who was in the audience at the meeting.

The board voted to

approve the plan, with supervisor John Sarro abstaining because he knows the owner of the land where the facility will be built. Escrow for the car wash was set at $217,966. No date has been set for the start of construction.

The board also heard about a housing development plan that would put

Herr Angus Farm beef now being marketed to

butchers and restaurants

By Steven Hoffman Staff Writer

respect, always. That quality of care is evident in the tender and tasteful beef that is produced.

For many years, the Angus beef from the Nottingham farm was sold to wholesale markets worldwide, but now a new initiative finds the

Dennis Byrne has served as the

to top butchers and restaurants in the region. West Grove resident Bill Pew formed Pewter Valley Provisions LLC with partner Curtis Mathias to

market the Angus beef to high-end butcher shops and restaurants that are looking for a top-quality product for their customers, under an agreement with Herr Angus Farms, a division of Herr Foods. Pew said that the goal is to limit the availability of the Angus beef to only a handful of

27 twin units on property at Walnut Street and Gale Lane, near the Tri-M and Everfast facilities in the township. Mike Gavin, a representative for developer Doug White, said the 54 homes would have two stories and attached garages, and would sell for $430,000 to $539,000.

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the finest local butcher shops and restaurants rather than trying to saturate the market. The emphasis is on quality, not quantity—just as it has always been on the Herr Angus Farms.

“It’s really a very specific market,” Pew said. “It’s a high-quality market. We’re looking to get “PA Preferred” Black Angus beef into the finest markets and restaurants.”

Byrne, a resident of Nottingham, has more than 30 years of experience breeding, showing, and caring for Angus cattle. He graduated with a degree in Animal Science from the University of Delaware, and he and his wife Dottie were raising their own small herd of cattle as far back as 1974.

Byrne worked in a professional capacity at the New Bolton Center before he was enlisted to manage the Herr family farm in 1986.

From the very start, there has been a considerable amount of synergy between the snack food company and the farm. The farm provides Herr Foods with environmentally responsible ways to reuse and recycle both the human edible products and water generated in the process.

Byrne explained that James S. Herr, the founder of Herr Foods, was instrumental in deciding that the company needed to make some productive use out the by-products. As the company was growing, it was using more and more water, and a farm would allow for the water to be recycled, too.

“Mr. Herr’s thinking,” Byrne explained, “was whatever we can recycle, we want to do that. So the farm became the recycling arm of Herr Foods. The Herr family and this farm are concerned about the environment. Being a part of Herr Foods, it’s always been one team and one goal.”

Byrne said that there are at least 400 head of cattle on the farm at any one time, and that number can grow to up to 700 depending on a variety of factors, including the time of year and market. The farm includes more than 1,400 acres of pasture, hay and crop land. It’s a lot to manage. Byrne is assisted by two full-time employees, Doug Lawrie and his son, Rob Lawrie, as well as several part-time workers. Byrne also offers work experiences to some local students and college interns who are interested

in Animal Science. These students also help out for part of the year.

With more than 30 years of experience breeding and raising the cattle on the farm, Byrne has longsince established the highest level of care for the animals.

Byrne likes to call the by-products from the snack food company—discarded potatoes, chips, and pretzels a “steer party mix.”

Steers are fed three pounds of the steer party mix each day as an energy source combined with corn and hay, grown on irrigated farm land, with appropriate vitamins and minerals added. The diets of the cattle, mixed on site in the “Cowboy Kitchen,” are carefully monitored, and nutritionists work with Byrne and the team to make adjustments in the diet so that each one receives all the nutrients

that are needed.

“They are better fed than you or I are,” Byrne explained. “Because they always eat what they should be eating. We always like to say that our cattle are grass-fed and grain-finished. We work with nutritionists, and they test the ingredients. The nutritionists will help us make a custom blend to balance everything out.”

The idea to start marketing the Angus beef came about only recently. Pew, a retired plant manager at Du Pont’s largest global agricultural research facility, wanted to take up hobby farming. He and his wife, Pam, have some chickens, horses, and beef cattle. When he was doing the research before buying any cattle, he came across the Herr Angus Farms and the work of Byrne and his team. The fact that Dennis was a former University of Delaware graduate served to cement a friendly relationship with Pew, who also graduated from UD with an Agricultural Engineering degree.

“Angus was clearly the choice for this area,” Pew said. “The real story starts with the quality of the beef, and the Herr Angus Farms herd is one of the finest in the region…and the country in our opinion”

When he and Pam bought a quarter of beef that was produced from the Herr Angus Farms, Pew could tell immediately that this was a special product and should be marketed to the

high-end markets. He talked to Byrne about the idea.

The cattle were already on a superior diet and were treated with the utmost care and respect that leads to the production of a more tender and tasty beef. Why not market it to restaurants and butchers in the area?

With Byrne focusing on what he has always focused on—providing the best care to the cattle—Pew enlisted Curtis Mathias, a Philadelphia resident, to begin the process of identifying the right fits for the black Angus beef. Pew said that they are currently talking to different restaurants and markets in the greater Philadelphia region, currently including Philadelphia County, Chester County and Delaware County.

Domenick Crimi, whose family owns and operates Cappuccio’s Meats in Philadelphia, agreed with the growing assessment of the taste and tenderness of the Herr Angus beef. As the general manager of a third generation Butcher Shop in Philadelphia’s fabled 9th Street Italian Market, Crimi had built a strong customer relationship with Pewter Valley Provisions partner Curtis Mathias. After some discussions with Mathias (and a sample of the product) he recently made the

decision to offer the Herr’s Quality Angus beef to his customers. He thinks it will be very popular.

“I’m an old-fashioned butcher,” Crimi explained. “People want a quality product. They want to know where their food comes from. They want prime cuts of locally raised shop butchered meat and store ground burger meat. So far, we’ve had a lot of interest in this product.”

Aurora Pizza and Pasta in Jennersville is excited to bring this product to market as well. A frequent shopper at the local (and seasonal) farmers’ auctions, owner and head chef Jim Del Vescovo sees the value in bringing local quality products to market.

Aurora Pizza and Pasta Kitchens will be featuring Herr’s Quality Angus Beef “chalkboard specials” in addition to their regular menu on a limited basis in the coming weeks.

Pew said that he expects other butchers and restaurant owners to be just as receptive.

“What we’re trying to do is bring a high-quality, farm-to-table food to the market,” Pew said. “This is a labor of love for us.”

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

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race, but what helped us turn our vision into reality was made possible by volunteers and local sponsors who took a chance on us.”

With one race in the books, Nurry and DiMascola are sketching out changes to this year’s event, with the largest tweak expected to be in the rise of the number of runners who will start this year’s half-marathon, which they said is expect-

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within walking distances of residences. TND projects incorporate many different architectural styles, and are not exclusive in their design.

ed to draw between 1,200 and 1,500.

“Last year, because it was our first year, we capped it at 700, but emails kept coming in,” Nurry said.

“The average half-marathon draws about 4,000 runners, so we think we can get there this year.”

A new feature of this year’s race will offer runners an option to run a two-person relay race, with lead-off runners directed to a point 6.1 miles from

Town planner Tom Comitta, who also serves as the township’s landscape architect, said that one of the TND plans that stands to benefit from these ordinances is Parkside, a 16-acre, mixed-use complex currently being developed by local developer Michael Pia, Jr., and planned to be located on North Walnut Street, just south of Route 1, on the site of a former mushroom farm. Now in the sketch phase of development, Parkside will include traditional neighborhood design apartments, town homes, single family homes and some carriage houses, as well as commercial mixeduse, park space and areas dedicated to public open space. During his presentation to the supervisors, Comitta compared the Parkside concept to the Eagleview Town Center in Exton, an 800-acre, combined residential and commercial concept that features a walkable community for 1,200 residents, 2.5 million square feet of commercial real estate space, as well as shops and ten miles of park trails.

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with intent to deliver, operating a corrupt organization, dealing in the proceeds of unlawful activity, criminal solicitation, criminal use of a telephone facility, and criminal conspiracy.

In their complaint, Rubincan and Peterson say that they began investigating the drug trafficking in 2015. The organization, called the Maitre DTO, “distributes large amounts of methamphetamine, cocaine, heroin, marijuana and prescription pills,” they wrote. “The area that the alleged drug ring operated in stretched from Chester and Lancaster counties in Pennsylvania, to Delaware and Maryland. Suppliers came from as far way as Arizona, Puerto Rico, and Texas.”

The Maitre DTO relied on a large-scale distribution

Comitta said that after the first design ideas for the planned development were criticized, Pia went back to the drawing board – by himself.

“It’s to Mike’s credit that he was willing to withdraw a plan he had spent a lot of money on engineering, and instead tried to reach the goals of the design guidelines that are embedded in these ordinances,” Comitta said. “Instead of only referring to Eagleview as an example of this design, people can be directed to Parkside in Kennett Square.”

Comitta also compared Pia’s original drawings for Parkside to Poundbury, an urban town center in Dorset, England, that was designed according to designs suggested by Prince Charles.

“When you Google ‘Poundbury’ and then compare it to what Mike is going to submit, you realize that Mike has brought Europe to Kennett Township.”

In other township news, on the the heels of the recently-completed economic development study for the township and Kennett Borough, plans are being made to create an economic development committee, which will be made up of local business owners, borough and township officials and members

of drugs, with participants buying kilos of cocaine and pounds of methamphetamine. Maitre was the manager of more than 30 co-conspirators including Christopher Forrester of Kennett Square, a convicted drug dealer who got out of state prison in February 2016.

Also contained in the complaint are details about phone and text conversations between Maitre and

the race start, where they will meet their relay teammate, who will then run the second 7-mile leg back to the finish line at Kennett High School. The race will provide a return shuttle service for runner 1 to reunite with runner 2 for a unique “finish together” option.

A few features of the original race will return. In addition to the post-race celebration for all runners and their families, the

of the local community.

Once formed, the committee will work together to create a mission statement and a comprehensive vision plan, in order to create a joint economic development department between both municipalities.

The first goal of the committee will be to apply for a Chester County grant which will allow the board to amend current zoning ordinances to be able to implement the economic development study.

Township manager Lisa Moore said that by March 1 she, Kennett Borough manager Joe Scalise and Historic Kennett Square director Mary Hitchens will come up with a list of candidates for the board.

By April 1, a mission statement and vision will be completed, and by the end of the summer, Moore said that the plan will be implemented.

“The committee will oversee the economic development department, and the committee will be responsible for implementing the study,” Moore said. “Prior to sending the committee off to do that, the township supervisors and the borough council will need to agree on the direction of the economic development study.”

To contact Staff Writer Richard L. Gaw, e-mail rgaw@chestercounty.com.

his girlfriend, Maria Elena Lemos, 41, of Kennett Square. A criminal complaint against Lemos, who was arrested on Jan. 12, says she had complained at one point that “everyone is getting sloppy” and that the “wrong person is going to take the hit.”

To contact Staff Writer John Chambless, email jchambless@chestercounty. com.

Weekly Flight – a group dedicated to promoting an understanding of the challenges associated with combat post-traumatic stress – will again be given the honor of starting this year’s race. When Nurry and DiMascola first conceived the race last year, they did so not just to provide runners with a challenging course, but to use the event as a springboard for charitable giving. On Nov. 15, 2016, in a ceremony at The Marketplace in Kennett Square, Run2Shine, Inc. made three $5,000 contributions to three community organizations as well as help fund research for Pediatric Brain Tumors by gifting the Grayson Saves Foundation $1,000. This year’s recipient sponsors will include the Garage Community & Youth Center, Family Promise of Southern Chester County and

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“They will be a nice product that fits in well with the community,” Gavin said. Supervisor Bob Weer, Sr., asked about sewer hookups for the 22.6-acre development, and Gavin said that “It’s on us to find a way to get public sewer connected.” Weer also pointed out the industrial nature of the area and the truck traffic that might be a concern for homeowners.

The development is still in the early planning stages, and was presented to the board as a general outline. It faces conditional use hearings and further scrutiny. “I think Mr. White may be faced with having to make some offsite sewer improvements,” Weer said.

Next on the agenda was a consideration of sewer capacity in East Marlborough. Jeff Simpson, the township’s public works director, said a study is intended to address developments such as the proposed one on Gale Lane, since the 10-inch sewer main that runs along Route 1 is already handling hookups from several new housing developments and businesses, and might be approaching capacity.

The study of existing sewer lines will cost the

the Kennett Education Foundation.

Under the direction of iRun2Shine – the new, gift-giving branch of Run2Shine, Inc. – this year’s race will focus its efforts to raise awareness and funds that will benefit underprivileged children in our area. Run2Shine, Inc. will allocate funding to cover sports/fitness equipment for students who are interested in playing on school teams but are unable to afford it.

Run2Shine, Inc. is currently working with the Kennett Consolidated School District and local physical fitness businesses on a pilot program designed to education students on nutrition, wellness and complete fitness.

“Karen and I would like to get to a point where we can give as much as $60,000 back to the community each year,” Nurry said. “When you feel jaded

township $7,800, but will give an accurate estimate for how much more load the system could handle, Simpson said. He estimated that the system is handling about 300,000 gallons per day and was rated for a maximum of 440,000 gallons, but “we don’t know how close we are to that amount,” he said. The board approved the study, which will be completed in 30 days.

Simpson also outlined the state of the township’s traffic signals, particularly three areas that have partially failed or are outdated and in danger of failing. At the intersection of Route 926 and Doe Run Road, one of the traffic detection wires has failed, and the intersection of routes 82 and 926 might not respond to emergency equipment that is intended to change the light to green. The board agreed to spend $13,000 for ongoing maintenance work on the problems in order to avoid the much higher cost if the equipment fails completely.

The board also approved road closures for the upcoming Kennett Run on

about how the world is functioning around you, being able to give back and helping a person who is less fortunate than you is very fulfilling.”

Beginning next week, a mailer announcing the 2017 race and registration information will be sent to all 2016 competitors, and the general public will be notified beginning on Feb. 15. The registration cost for early registrants will be $85, and $110 for relay race competitors. There will also be a military veteran sponsorship level, which will help pay the entrance fees for all veterans who would like to compete in the race. For complete information about the KSQ Mushroom Cap 13.1 half marathon, visit www.runksqmushroomcap.com.

To contact Staff Writer Richard L. Gaw, e-mail rgaw@chestercounty.com.

May 20; and the Mushroom Cap Half-Marathon, which will be held on Nov. 4. The Kennett Run route has been altered to avoid closing Route 82 this year, and Police Chief Robert Clarke said the route “means less officers required, less detoured traffic – it’s a lot easier for us.”

Last year’s race resulted in about $50,000 being donated to area non-profits, said race organizer Chris Daney, who was at the meeting. “Our goal is to get a little bit more than that in 2017.” The Mushroom Cap HalfMarathon will follow the same route as last year, and will start and finish at Kennett High School. The event raised about $16,000 last year.

Richard Hannum, Jr., the board chairman, said, “I think events like these are great for the community, and you guys do a great job” before the board voted to approve the road closures.

To contact Staff Writer John Chambless, email jchambless@chestercounty.com.

Q & A Kalia Reynolds, Ed.D.

Grove School District

Q: The Avon Grove School District will be introducing a full-day kindergarten program starting with the 201718 school year. How are the preparations for that going?

A : We’re excited about FDK preparations for the 2017-2018 school year. Our action team, comprised of numerous staff members from different departments in our district, meets regularly to confirm project plans. Programming and scheduling are mostly complete. Currently, we’re working on facilities and finalizing a communications plan. With facilities, the focus is on securing the necessary permissions and permits to move forward with installing modulars at Penn London Elementary School to accommodate some of the older students, as we will need additional space for full-day kindergarten. Communication and planning are essential to the success of launching this program, so we’re in the process of scheduling information sessions for our community this fall.

Q

: What are some of the advantages of a full-day program over a half-day program?

A: At two and a half hours,

our current half-day program is shorter than most area preschool programs. Time is the biggest advantage of a full-day program, as it will give our teachers adequate time to address the learning standards across multiple content areas. Research shows that students in a FDK program develop stronger foundational skills, especially in the areas of math, reading, and social competence. A full-day program expands the scope of 21st-century learning skills, such as creativity, collaboration, critical thinking, and communication. We can allow our teachers and students to slow down and make learning more meaningful, rather than trying to cram it all into a half day. We are in good company with the move to full-day kindergarten. Between 70 and 80 percent of kindergarteners statewide and nationwide attend full-day programs, and more than half of the school districts in Chester County will offer full-day programs by next year. Our district vision states, “All Avon Grove students are well prepared to create their own futures.” We believe that offering a full-day program is a major component of helping us to realize this vision.

Q: What benefits would you expect to see for Avon Grove students as they move on to first grade after having a full-day kindergarten program?

A : Research shows that students who come from a FDK program show increased levels of mastery of basic, essential skills. Students come to first grade prepared, and that reduces the time needed to review core concepts and skills. As a result, teachers are able to expose students to deeper learning opportunities. State research shows students who attended FDK did twice as well on their PSSA math tests in third grade than students who attended half-day programs.

Q: What else do parents need to know about the change to a full-day program?

A : Throughout the planning process for FDK, our focus has been on creating a program that is based on developmentally appropriate practices. Structured play, discovery, and inquiry-based learning are important for our kindergarten learners, and we will be sure that our program provides that. We expect that parents may have concerns such as, “Will the program be

too intense for my child?” and “How do I know if my child is ready for a full-day program?” These kinds of questions are very reasonable and we will be addressing them. We believe our program will be flexible and provide the right mix of structure, age-appropriate play, and breaks for our kindergarteners. We are excited about getting them engaged in learning in deeper and more meaningful ways that we simply can’t do in a halfday program. Teachers will have more time to work individually with each student, and we can meet each learner at their level and work with them in ways that boost their individual learning style.

Q

: This is going to be a big change for the district, so it's obviously going to be very important for parents to register their

children for kindergarten as early as possible, isn't it?

A

: Timely registration is essential for adequate planning for enrollment and transportation. We’ll begin the kindergarten registration process in late February.

Q

: Are there any information sessions coming up that parents should attend?

A : Information sessions are being scheduled and will be posted to the Avon Grove website and other news sources such as the district newsletter, e-mail, and local child care and learning centers.

Q

: Where else can parents turn for information about Avon Grove's full-day kindergarten program?

A

: Our school district website is a great resource for parents. For example, parents can go

to our site to quickly access the page for FDK. In addition, information and updates will also be posted to Penn London Elementary School’s website.

Q : Avon Grove has talked about implementing a full-day kindergarten program for many years, and the administrative team really came out in support of the initiative. You expect there to be real educational benefits for students, right?

A : We wouldn’t be moving forward if we didn’t think this was the best educational decision for our students. We are very excited about the many ways in which we feel this will improve the education of our youngest learners.

The Avon Grove School District's website is www. avongrove.org.

ChesterCounty PRESS

Enter to win 1of 3 prize packs

Since we are feeling the love, everyone receives an award for participating!

DiGiorgio named chairman of the Republican Party of Pennsylvania

FEBRUARY 1 - 10

1st

•$75 Gift Card to Anemoni Jewelers

•$100 Gift Card to Churrascaria Saudades

Brazilian Steakhouse

•Premium gift box filled with 32 pieces of assorted hand-crafted Swiss Chocolate truffles from Neuchatel Chocolates

•2 passes to the 2017 Summer Concert Series at Paradocx Vineyard ($216 value)

2nd

•$50 Gift Card to Anemoni Jewelers

•$75 Gift Card to Churrascaria Saudades

Brazilian Steakhouse

•Premium gift box filled with 16 pieces of assorted hand-crafted Swiss Chocolate truffles from Neuchatel Chocolates

•A Paradocx Wine tasting for 2 at Paradocx Vineyard ($40 value)

3rd

• $25 Gift Card to Anemoni Jewelers

•$50 Gift Card to Churrascaria Saudades

Brazilian Steakhouse

•Premium gift box filled with 8 pieces of assorted hand-crafted Swiss Chocolate truffles from Neuchatel Chocolates

•2 free flights from the Market at Liberty Square or Paradocx Vineyard ($24 value)

Val DiGiorgio, the chairman of the Chester County Republican Party, was elected to serve as chairman of the Republican Party of Pennsylvania. The election was held at the party’s winter meeting in Hershey with the nearly 350 state committee members from across Pennsylvania voting in the chairman race. In addition, the following Republicans were unanimously elected as officers of the Pennsylvania Republican Party: Bernadette

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his nominations for the cabinet, come to PEACE Club this Tuesday after school in Mrs. Young’s room, 506! PEACE will be writing letters and making phone calls to Pennsylvania representatives and senators to make sure that our voices are heard. You do NOT need to be a member to attend on Tuesday.

“Bernie” Comfort of Lehigh County was voted as the vice chair.

D. Raja from Allegheny County was named treasurer. Andy Reilly, from Delaware County, was reelected as secretary. Peg Ferraro was elected assistant secretary. She’s from Northampton County.

The members also voted to unanimously endorse candidates for statewide judicial seats.

In his speech while sharing how humbled he was to be receive the support

Come and write a letter about whichever issue is bothering you, and be the change you want to see!

The Peace Club agenda, as listed in the email, is blatantly political and partisan in nature.

and endorsement of the state committee members, Chairman DiGiorgio turned his focus to the 2017 elections.

“A united Republican Party is unstoppable,” said DiGiorgio. “This year we will double down on our success from last year and bring home victories for all seven of our endorsed candidates. As one voice, one campaign, and one army of dedicated grassroots volunteers, we will go seven for seven in our statewide races.”

Our public schools are not places to discuss these controversial political subjects. Avon Grove School District Superintendent M. Christopher Marchese and the school board should vet the agenda of the Peace Club and restrict it to non-political subjects or history.

(Uncle Irvin’s column is his opinion only, and is not a news story.)

Police forums to focus on senior safety

By Richard L. Gaw Staff Writer

The police departments from Kennett Borough and Kennett Township, in collaboration with the Pennsylvania State Police, will be sponsoring two upcoming safety seminars specifically for seniors.

The first seminar will be held on Feb. 14 in the William Penn Auditorium at Crosslands (1660 E. State Street Rd., Kennett Square), beginning at 10 a.m. The second will be held on Feb. 21, beginning at 10 a.m. in the auditorium at Kendal at Longwood (1109 E. Baltimore Pike, Kennett Square). In a panel that will be moderated by retired magisterial judge

Daniel Maisano, Kennett Township Police Chief Lydell Nolt, Kennett Square Police Lieutenant William Holdsworth and Pennsylvania State police Lieutenant Richard D’Ambrosio will discuss several crimes that are now being faced by seniors, including phone scams and identity theft, as well address ways that seniors can protect themselves. These seminars will be the second and third safety forums local law enforcement will be sponsoring in the community. More than 50 residents attended the first event last October in the atrium area of the Genesis healthcare Building on State Street. Moderated by Maisano, Nolt,

Holdsworth and FBI special agent Charles Dayoub emphasized the importance of police forming a bond of safety with the communities they serve.

A fourth seminar, now being planned for later in the year, will be aimed at youth, with a focus on preventing social media crimes, such as online bullying. Questions can be submitted prior to each event by emailing KTPD@kennett. pa.us, or given directly to Maisano at each forum. For more information on each event, call 610-388-2874, ext. 124.

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

TRUCK STOLEN

On Jan. 11, Pennsylvania State Police Avondale investigated the theft of a truck and trailer taken from the intersection of route 41 and 926. The truck was later found abandoned on Church Street in Cochranville, and the trailer was found on Birchwood Lane, off of Daleville Road. Nothing was taken from the truck or trailer. Anyone with information is asked to call police at 610-268-2022.

STATUES STOLEN

Between Nov. 13 and

15, several statues were stolen from properties in the Villages at Penn Ridge in Penn Township, according to Pennsylvania State Police Avondale. Anyone with information is asked to call police at 610-268-2022.

THEFT FROM CVS Pennsylvania State Police Avondale responded to the CVS drug store at 857 W. Baltimore Pike in Penn Township on Jan. 23 at 8:56 a.m. for a theft. Police said someone entered the store, put razors and nico-

tine products in a bag and fled the store.

TOOLS TAKEN FROM CONSTRUCTION SITE

A home under construction in the 500 block of Street Road in Lower Oxford Township was the site of a burglary overnight on Jan. 25, according to Pennsylvania State Police Avondale. Someone used a step ladder to enter the home, took several tools and fled through the back door. Anyone with information is asked to call police at 610-268-2022.

Kennett Township: Help bring paradise to Chester County

In her song, “Big Yellow Taxi,” Joni Mitchell wrote the following lyrics: “Don’t it always seem to go/That you don’t know what you got till it’s gone...”

Although the intentions of the songwriter were to address the impact of our world’s increasingly harmful environmental miscalculations, the sentiment can also be applied to anything that falls under the category of Things We Take for Granted. For the last century, thanks primarily to the mushroom industry, Chester County has been North America’s leader in indoor agriculture. It has expanded from a great experiment to a multi-billion-dollar industry, with year-round production, packaging and distribution to all corners of the globe, including 50 percent of the U.S. market. In the Kennett Square area alone, technology has not only kept up with increasing demand, it has in many ways outpaced it. Visit any indoor agricultural facility and see for yourself: immaculately kept growing facilities operated by a skilled and experienced workforce, partnered with a commitment of curiosity that continues to explore methods of expanding indoor agriculture.

And yet, a question remains that needs to be asked, one spun from the Mitchell song and contorted to fit the parameters of the issue, a question that hovers over our area’s economic future like a dark old bird:“Do we know what we have?”

Phrased another way, is Chester County doing enough to leverage the good fortune of being the largest and most concentrated hub of indoor agriculture in the world?

Three weeks ago at the Indoor Ag Con Asia in Singapore -- the indoor agriculture industry’s premier trade conference -- the Pegasus Agriculture Group, an international expert in indoor agriculture, announced its intention to support a public-private initiative to develop a global indoor agriculture production, research, training and service hub on the U.S. East Coast. Currently, no such facility exists.

At that same conference, Michael Guttman, a Kennett Township resident and a member of the township’s Indoor Agriculture Committee task force, gave a presentation that essentially said to Pegasus -- and, in essence, to the entire indoor agriculture community -- Put It Here.

While other townships and municipalities in southern Chester County are content to devote their energies to solving the page-by-page issues of governance, Kennett Township has turned its attention to laying the groundwork for its future, both economically and environmentally. It began its Sustainable Development Office last year in order to maximize opportunities for social and economic development while at the same time maintaining a sustainable environment for future generations. Partnering with Pegasus to create an indoor agriculture hub in the township would play a huge part in furthering the township’s mission.

The benefits are intoxicating: Developing an indoor agriculture research center in Kennett Township would position Chester County as a global leader in the indoor agriculture movement; it would attract environmentalists, economists and scientists from all around the world to develop and implement innovative methods of expanding indoor agriculture to under-served and over-populated regions and countries; and it would serve as a blueprint for other centers of its kind to be developed.

Through innovation, technology and plain hard work, the mushroom industry of Chester County has pushed open a door that could lead to a new method of feeding the world. It is time for others to take what this industry has given us and move forward with bold innovation. We encourage Kennett Township to place its partnership with the Pegasus Agriculture Group on the front burner of its priorities. To paraphrase Mitchell’s song of forewarning, do not pave a potential paradise. Make one.

Save Crebilly Farm from development

Letter to the Editor:

Crebilly Farm is an historic landmark in Chester County and part of the Brandywine Battlefield. The farm is one of the last three large, open spaces left in Westtown Township and is currently threatened by mass development. Located North and South between West Pleasant Grove Road and Route 926 and East and West between Route 202 and South New Street, the farm’s breathtaking 322 acres of rolling hills, streams, woods, open land and wildlife have been farmed since before World War II. For Crebilly Farm to fall victim to mass

development would be an iconic loss.

In June of 2016, an agreement of sale was reached between Toll Brothers and the owners of Crebilly Farm. The sale is contingent upon ‘conditional use approval’ by the Westtown Township Board of Supervisors. That means this is not a done deal. Crebilly Farm Friends respects the rights of land owners and believes in fair compensation. It is our hope the township and the developer will devise a thoughtful and balanced development plan that does not compromise this incredible piece of American History: Conserve

the open space and preserve the Brandywine Battlefield. We, the community, need to hold our townships and developers to the highest standards in order to preserve the integrity of unique land such as Crebilly Farm. The Crebilly Farm Friends website was created to inform and empower concerned citizens by providing a resource to turn to for upcoming meetings, news and educational information as we navigate this journey through the Planning Commission meetings and soon, the Board of Supervisors ‘Conditional Use’ hearings which begin on Feb. 22. Our goal is to

work toward achieving the best possible outcome.

Massive public outcry is our best ally against permanent destruction of Crebilly Farm. Knowledge is power. Please make the commitment to attend as many meetings as you can. Read and educate yourselves and others about this heart-wrenching, potential loss. Together we are making a difference. This is how we maintain the values of what makes Chester County such a desirable place to live.

Mindy

Rhodes www.CrebillyFarmFriends. com

Write about 90-year-olds going to the March for Life, too

Letter to the Editor:

I read your front page article this week, about the 90-year old woman from Lincoln University who went to the anti-

Trump Woman’s March, in Washington D.C. Well, my mother is 89 years old. But she voted for and supports President Trump. Today, January 27, 2017, is the March for Life in

Washington. And I would bet you that there will be other women who are over the age of 90 marching in support of the pre-born. Will there be articles and pictures of them in your

Guest Column

newspaper? I think not. After all, that would go against your paper’s leftleaning agenda.

It’s all in the planning

By Chester County Commissioner Chair Michelle Kichline

Chester County is widely known as a beautiful and happy corner of Pennsylvania. As a matter of fact, we are considered the fourth happiest county in America. Ours is one of the best counties in which to live, work, and raise a family, and it falls upon our local government to maintain the high quality of life that our residents are accustomed to. As Chair of the County Commissioners, I look forward to this challenge, continuing along the path of my predecessors, especially former Chair, Commissioner Terence Farrell, who has greatly contributed to the accomplishments of our county. Much of Chester County’s success comes from a long and uninterrupted history of planning. Planning remains the hallmark of our success.

Chester County is in excellent fiscal shape because of our financial planning. Our Triple-A bond rating attests to this fact. Across the nation, we see signs of economic development, and at home, we will continue to review our investments and loans to make sure we take advantage of the improving financial conditions.

Our success in managing growth – especially when you consider that we are one of the fastest growing counties in Pennsylvania – can be attributed to our Comprehensive Plan, which is readily available online. Our Planning Commission is spearheading the develop-

ment of Landscapes3, the successor to our two initial “Landscapes” that have guided Chester County in balancing economic growth and preservation for two decades. We remain committed to open space preservation efforts along with aiding our County’s agriculture sector, while encouraging residential and business development in local urban communities.

Chester County’s focus on continued economic growth can be found in the publicprivate partnership strategy known as VISTA 2025. Its goal is to support and preserve our economic diversity while keeping those elements that make Chester County so attractive to residents and businesses. It is a deep and wide strategy that – through consistent planning – will encourage small and large businesses to choose Chester County as their home and, at the same time, educate and train our workforce to support the local business community. This strategy also encourages the people who work here to make Chester County their home, and we already see this plan in action, as evidenced by a recent newspaper article naming Phoenixville as a hub for Millennials and Baby Boomers.

Planning and promotion by the Chester County Conference and Visitors Bureau is also paying dividends. Tourism alone brings in more than $700 million and generates over 7,000 jobs in Chester County! In 2016, Longwood Gardens was the most visited garden in the United States, further contrib-

uting to our economic success. This premier tourist attraction increased its attendance in 10 years from 750,000 to 1.35 million visitors, and has plans to welcome even more tourists this year.

In 2017, Chester County will continue to support our boroughs and the city of Coatesville. We were disappointed that the State of Pennsylvania withdrew Coatesville’s application for a Keystone Opportunity Zone (KOZ) designation (along with all other state-wide KOZ applications), which would have helped with business attraction to the city. But we will continue to plan for other financial avenues to assist Coatesville in its recovery, adding to the $11 million-plus that has been spent on housing, training and education, infrastructure improvements and economic development in the past few decades.

The County will monitor budget negotiations in Harrisburg, especially Human Services programs, because taking care of those in need is a top priority for us. Chester County must remain prepared to provide necessary services if Harrisburg is unable to approve a budget and provide this type of funding. (And because of our astute financial planning, we have been able to step-in over the past few years, to bridge the funding gap for our vulnerable citizens when Harrisburg was in budget turmoil.)

The incoming administration in Washington has indicated infrastructure spending will increase. We will ensure that we have ‘shovel

ready’ projects in place for funding, such as the Route 30 Bypass ramp. Route 202 has also been greatly enhanced in recent years, but other roadways also need improvements. Planning for transit development is a vital key to preserving our boroughs and cities, especially Coatesville, Downingtown, and Exton. When it comes to other key priorities, including the health and safety of Chester County citizens, the thread of planning is evident in so many initiatives. From the development of the Public Safety Training Campus and the investment in our emergency voice radio system to preparing for public health emergencies and tackling the opioid and heroin crisis – we make plans, enact plans and review plans for the health and safety of everyone who lives and works here.

This year will be extremely busy for all three Chester County Commissioners. Vice Chair Kathi Cozzone will continue her efforts in workforce development and the reduction of the number of people with mental illness in jails. Commissioner Farrell will continue with international trade initiatives with China and will spearhead our ‘Healthiest County’ program. Together, the three of us will continue to work hard – and make plans – to keep Chester County a wonderful place to live, work, and play. Our plans include input and support from Chester County’s residents and businesses to ensure our continued success and vitality, and we look forward to hearing from you.

Nominations requested for Citizen Recognition Awards in Oxford

By Geoff Henry Mayor of Oxford Borough

I have decided again this year that it would be appropriate to recognize citizens for their unheralded work in making Oxford a better place to live in, work in, and enjoy. The success of any community is built on the efforts of individuals and organizations committed to working for the common good of all. The strength of a community does not rest in the power

of government but is built upon the foundation of its citizens. Oxford has been blessed by the contributions of many hometown heroes. Since starting the awards in 2006, 52 individual and/ or organizations have been recognized. Citizen recognition awards will be given to honor individuals and organizations that exemplify a commitment to improving the quality of life in the Borough of Oxford. These awards will

be given to those individuals and organizations that have made significant contributions to the fabric and sense of community.

The recipients will have given unselfishly of themselves in service to others in the community, often unrecognized, to set a better example for all of us in the work that must be done to keep our community strong and make Oxford a better place to live.

To qualify for consider-

ation individuals must be residents of the Borough, or work or volunteer in businesses or organizations within the Borough. Anyone can nominate an individual or organization for consideration. The submission deadline is April 15, 2017.

Nomination forms can be picked up at the Oxford Police Station, the Borough Hall or downloaded from my web site www.oxfordboro. org/mayor.

Bove Jewelers expands to West Chester location

By John Chambless Staff Writer

This has been quite a year for Bob Strehlau, who reopened the Bove Jewelers business in Kennett Square last March after the previous owners decided to close.

This weekend, Strehlau will preside over the grand opening of a second Bove store in West Chester.

Strehlau, a fifthgeneration jeweler, bought the Kennett Square store from previous owner George Reinas after being the general manager there for years. Around that time, he heard about the West Chester storefront coming on the market.

“My wife and I were aware that that building was going to be

available, and reserved it a whole year before we bought the Kennett store,” Strehlau said, “in hopes that it would be the perfect place for a second store if everything worked out well.”

After a year of being welcomed back to Kennett Square by longtime customers and newcomers alike, Strehlau seems to have had the right hunch in expanding to the former Wright’s Jewelers location in West Chester.

“After the first six months of being open at the Kennett store, we knew that our second, smaller store was the right choice,” he said.

“It’s also one of our other favorite towns.

West Chester definitely needed a new jewelry

store to fit everyone’s needs.

“It needed a ton of work,” Strehlau said of the new store. “We definitely wanted to make it look exactly like our Kennett store location. We have all of the same merchandise in all categories at both stores, but at the West Chester store, it is shown in smaller, boutique-like sizes. ”

Strehlau’s family has a long history in the jewelry business, dating back to 1879. His family owned stores in Cape May, N.J., and Aston, Pa. His grandfather, Charles Holland, was a watchmaker and diamond setter who helped introduce his grandson to the business. Strehlau was working primarily as a goldsmith

and as a diamond setter before he was recruited by Reinas to work at Bove in 2001. With a ribbon-cutting on Feb. 10 at 10 a.m. in West Chester, Strehlau will now be splitting his time between the two locations. “The stores are only 15 miles away from each other,” he said. “I am there two or three days a week for the afternoons, but I also have an A team

there, and also my wife Jacci, who is the brains and beauty behind the company.” Strehlau said he finds the jewelry business to be constantly evolving. “Interacting with clients is very rewarding,” he said. “It is one of the few occupations where you can put a smile on every client’s face. And every day brings something different. It’s also wonderful that

the trends change every three to six months, making it fresh and new.”

The new Bove Jewelers store will open with a ribbon cutting at 10 a.m. Feb. 10 at 113 W. Gay St., West Chester. Call 610-738GOLD, or visit www. bovejewelers.com.

To contact Staff Writer John Chambless, email jchambless@ chestercounty.com.

Al Iacocca announces bid for District Judge

On Feb. 1, Kennett Square/Unionville attorney and East Marlborough Township resident, Al Iacocca, declared his candidacy for Magisterial District Judge.

The seat, District Court 15-3-04, remains vacant following Hon. Daniel Maisano’s retirement last January. The District Court serves the residents of Birmingham, East Marlborough, Kennett, Newlin, Pennsbury, and Pocopson townships, as well as the Borough of Kennett Square in criminal, civil, juvenile, and traffic matters.

Iacocca has been endorsed for the position by the Kennett Area Democrats. He cited his years of advocating for civil, criminal, and juvenile clients in Court 15-3-04 and other district courts in the county, his familiarity with the system, and the professional relationships he has developed with local law enforcement, district attorneys, court staff, and other local attorneys as the backbone to his experience and readiness to serve as the community’s district judge.

“My decision to run for the District Judge seat is just another opportunity for me to further my commitment to serving this

Al Iacocca

community,” Iacocca said, “and it would be an honor to be given the chance to sit as its next District Judge. I have a lot of respect for Judge Maisano and his service on the bench, and would work hard to be of the same caliber as he was.”

In addition to his District Court practice, Iacocca represents individuals in criminal, domestic, and civil matters in the Chester County Court of Common Pleas, as well as neighboring counties. He has served as a Chester County Arbitrator since 2011, and he is a trained mediator in civil and domestic matters.

Iacocca has been a community leader since moving to the area, joining the Kennett YMCA’s Board of

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Directors. He spent eight years developing a youth triathlon team and race with the Kennett YMCA. He also served as the Longwood Rotary Club representative for Kennett Run Charities’ Board of Directors, and he served as Race Director for the 2010 and 2011 Kennett Run races. He was a YMCA and URA coach and a swimming official for over a decade, and he still serves as an Assistant Scoutmaster with Boy Scout Troop 22.

Iacocca was born and raised in Pennsylvania and for the past 12 years has lived in the Kennett Square area with his wife, Mary, and three children, Patrick, Michael, and Anna, who attend Patton Middle School and Unionville High School.

donates to local organization

Benchmark Federal Credit Union presented a donation of $2,100 on Jan. 31 to Cuddle My Kids, as part of a part of the credit union’s charitable program that allows employees at all branches to wear jeans to work every Friday, in exchange for a monthly donation to a community charity. At the end of the year, the funds raised are given to a Chester County nonprofit. This year, their efforts were boosted by employees at Benchmark’s newest branches in Downtown West Chester and Phoenixville. Cuddle My Kids, located in Westtown, supports children through creative play, arts and crafts, and enrichment, while at the same time offering respite for the sick parent to focus on healing and increasing their quality of life during treatment.

Kennett earns win on Senior Night

Prestianne scores 24 and Hertz adds 17 as the team improves to 10-10

By Steven Hoffman Staff Writer

The Kennett girls’ basketball team celebrated Senior Night on Feb. 2 by honoring its three seniors— Delaney Chaffin, Vicky Gallivan, and Melissa Houck—and by winning, 56-54, over visiting Sun Valley in a hard-fought game that featured big momentum swings.

Two themes emerged early on. Sun Valley forward Kate Lannon quickly established herself as a force on the offensive and defensive glass, and the defenses for both teams were going to struggle to stop the other team from scoring from the outside.

Caroline Hertz, a junior guard for Kennett, knocked down a three-pointer midway through the first quarter, a basket that tied the game and was a sign of things to come. Sun Valley responded when Lannon scored after grabbing an offensive rebound—also a sign of things to come.

Kennett closed the first quarter impressively as sophomore guard Andrea Prestianne made a nice

move to get to the basket to claim a 10-8 lead, and then junior forward Alexa Hussey grabbed an offensive rebound and got the put-back for two more points. Kennett led 12-8 after one quarter.

Sun Valley’s sharp-shooting guard Abby Seasock opened the scoring in the second quarter with a three-pointer to pull her team to within a point. Kennett answered with a three-pointer by Hertz. On Sun Valley’s next trip up the court, Seasock once again connected from beyond the arc. Again, Sun Valley trailed by just one.

The two teams traded baskets and traded free throws, but neither team was able to gain much of an advantage.

Then, with Kennett leading 23-20, Hertz connected on her fourth three-pointer of the game, sparking a run by Kennett that would only be stopped with time expiring on the second quarter.

Kennett’s Maddie Fowler, a freshman, scored a basket after a nice pass by Hertz, making it 28-20. Hertz then scored on a lay-up to push the lead to 30-20. Lannon scored a basket in a bid to

stall Kennett’s momentum, but a basket by Prestianne and a three-pointer by Hertz soon followed. It was 35-22 as the second quarter ended. Sun Valley didn’t waste any time roaring back.

Claire Howley hit a short jumper to open the third quarter, and Lannon followed with a quick layup. Kennett’s perimeter players weren’t getting the same looks at the basket that they were getting in the first quarter, and Sun Valley’s defense was producing turnovers. Sun Valley was also winning the battle on the offensive glass. On one trip down the court, Sun Valley grabbed two offensive rebounds before Ally Giannakarios hit a jumper, cutting the lead to 37-30. After a steal by Howley, Lannon knocked down a three-pointer. Sun Valley outscored Kennett 18-6 during the third period, and even claimed the lead— briefly—when Lannon scored a basket inside and drew a foul. Her free throw gave Sun Valley a 40-39 lead.

A clear illustration of Kennett progress and development this season was on display when the team responded to being pushed. Instead of allowing Sun Valley to continue its momentum, Kennett regrouped. Prestianne sandwiched two free throws and a three-pointer around a basket by Fowler, and just like that Kennett was on top again by four points. At the four-minute mark, Maya Jacyszyn hit a threepointer for Sun Valley, and the game was once again tied.

But Prestianne continued her torrid pace, connecting on a three-pointer and then driving to the hoop for another basket. She also drew a foul and hit the free throw, giving Kennett a 54-50 lead.

Lannon scored another basket to cut into the lead— she had a game-high 26 points on the night—but time was running out on Sun Valley.

Kennett spread the floor and ran the clock down to 55.3 seconds before Sun Valley opted to foul. The move paid off for Sun Valley when the first end of a oneand-one was missed, keeping the score at 54-52.

Sun Valley called a timeout with 42 seconds to play to talk over strategy, but when play resumed the team couldn’t get a good look at the basket. The shot was off the mark and Hertz grabbed the rebound. Kennett put the ball in Prestianne’s hands, and for good reason. The sophomore was playing like she was in her senior season. Sun Valley had no choice but to foul. Prestianne calmly stepped to the free throw line and knocked down both shots to give her team a 56-52 lead. Kennett played good defense as the precious seconds ticked away on Sun Valley. A three-point attempt by Sun Valley missed the mark, but Lannon was there to grab the offensive rebound. She managed to draw a foul, but there was only 1.8 seconds left on the clock. She hit the free throws, trimming the lead to 56-54, but there was nothing Sun Valley could do to prevent the final 1.8

seconds from ticking away. Kennett held on for a 56-54 win, much to the delight of the home crowd that turned out for Senior Night.

Prestianne scored 15 of her team-high 24 points in the second half.

“Andrea is a sophomore and she’s the heart and soul of our team,” Kennett coach Vince Cattano explained. “She’s a scrappy player. She’s good on offense. She’ll be one of the better players in the Ches-Mont League for the next two years.”

While Prestianne sparked Kennett’s offense in the second half, they might not have been in the position to win the game without the 17-point outburst by Hertz in the first half. She hit five three-pointers as Kennett surged ahead.

“When she gets hot, she can score. She has hit some really big shots for us,” Cattano said.

Cattano said that the effort on defense might have dipped a little for his team during the third quarter when Kennett watched a 13-point lead vanish. He praised the hard work and talent of Sun Valley’s Lannon, explaining, “She is really good. For four years, she’s been killing us. We just don’t have a good

matchup for her. That type of player is fun to play against. It’s nice to see her have success.”

Cattano said that Chaffin, who scored four points, had a good game in her last regular season home game with Kennett.

Gallivan, who will be heading to the University of Pennsylvania to play Division 1 lacrosse next year, provided solid defense throughout the game for Kennett.

Cattano said that Houck really knows basketball and can fit in at different spots and do whatever the team needs.

The victory improved Kennett’s overall record to 10-10 on the season. Cattano pointed out that Kennett lost a lot of talented seniors last year, so to have such a young squad reach doubledigits in victories is quite an accomplishment for the players. The Kennett coach liked that they could celebrate the hard work of Houck, Chaffin, and Gallivan with a victory.

“It was a good way for our seniors to go out tonight,” Cattano said.

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

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A show about traveling and transitions at the Chadds Ford Gallery

By John Chambless Staff Writer

“Passages,” a theme of transportation and changes, is a good umbrella for the Chadds Ford Gallery’s new show, which opens with an artist reception on Feb. 10.

There is some fine work, especially paintings by Neal Hughes, a New Jersey artist whose luminous oils have a vivid light and a maturity that sets them apart. The sunlit Victorian roof lines in “Houses on the Hill” leap out of the

frame, leading your eye to the more subtly rendered bushes, flowers and weeds on the foreground hillside. Hughes’ “Evening Colors,” a superbly rendered yard stacked with lobster pots and an overturned boat, centers on the sunlight glinting off the water on the other side of the house, seen through the windows.

Karl Kuerner’s expanse of wintry hillside, “Four Wheel Drive,” is a wonderful view of windwhipped snow, tire tracks and ice-topped fence posts,

with a tiny fox at the crest of the hill. It’s a wide-open composition that succeeds on every level.

Steven White specializes in views of airplanes in rugged settings (“Take Me Up,” “On Step”), but the vivid orange-yellow biplane in “Yellow Peril” steals the spotlight in the front room of the gallery.

Robert Stack’s captivating driver’seye viewpoint in the watercolor “Down the Road of Life We Fly” is

splendidly done; and his dazzling depiction of a lighthouse and closely passing sailboat, “Close Hauled at Brown’s Head,” is a symphony of lighterthan-air hues.

Jacalyn Beam’s “Winter Passage” holds its place admirably with a robust rendering of sun and shadows on snow, and Bill Ewing gets right to the heart of the transportation theme of the show with his oil, “Motor Head.” Special note goes

to Glenn Blue, whose “Heading West” is an immersive watercolor of clouds and mountains seen from a plane’s perspective that puts you right in the pilot’s seat. There are several other nice pieces, including Glenn Blue’s “Warmth of the Cold,” an image of sunlight slanting through a forest that evokes the essence of wintertime chill.

“Passages” continues

through Feb. 26 at the Chadds Ford Gallery (1609 Baltimore Pike, Chadds Ford). A reception will be held Feb. 10 from 5 to 8 p.m. Gallery hours are Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday from noon to 5 p.m. Call 610-388-2412 or visit www.awyethgallery. com.

To contact Staff Writer John Chambless, email jchambless@ chestercounty.com.

ORLANDO TESTA

Orlando “Bus” Testa, 96, of Kennett Square, passed away on Jan. 29 at Linden Hall.

He was the husband of Rita Ramachata Testa, who passed away in 1995, and with whom he shared 50 years of marriage. Born in Shaw Mines (Meyersdale), Pa., he was the son of the late Luigi and Laurena Camelli  Testa. He was an assembler at General Motors, retiring in 1982 after 30 years of service, and was a handyman in the area. He served his country in the U.S. Army during World War II. He was a lifetime member of the Avondale Fire Company. He enjoyed hunting, fishing and gardening.

He is survived by one son, Joseph Testa and his wife Patti of Columbia Falls, Mont.; two daughters, Julie Madonna Standifer and her husband Charles of Landenberg, and Linda Testa of Landenberg; one brother, Mario Testa of Toughkenamon; three grandchildren, Dean Madonna of Colorado, Kristian Testa Denny of Tennessee and Anthony Testa of Massachusetts; and four great-grandchildren, Sierra Testa, Preston Testa, Joey Chester and Nicholas Testa.

His service and burial were private. In lieu of flowers, a contribution may be made to the Avondale Fire Co., 23 Firehouse Way, Avondale, PA 19311. Online condolences may be made by visiting www.griecocares.com.

LAWRENCE F. FORESTER, JR.

Lawrence Franklin Forester, Jr., 84, of Oxford, passed away on Jan. 30 at home.

He was the husband of Ethel Conoly Forester, with whom he shared 58 years of marriage. He was a veteran of the U.S. Army, and served in the Korean War. He retired in 1988 from Chrysler in Newark, Del. He attended Calvary Baptist Church in Rising Sun, Md. Lawrence enjoyed archery, golf, and coaching Little League baseball and softball. He is survived by his wife; two sons, David W. Forester (Barbara) of Oxford, and Gary R. Forester (Lisa) of Nottingham; and two grandchildren, Rea Forester and Heather Forester.

A funeral was held Feb. 3. Interment was in Oxford Cemetery. Online condolences may be made at www. elcollinsfuneralhome.com.

ROBERT H. FLINN, SR.

Robert H. Flinn, Sr., 64, of Oxford, passed away on Jan. 22 at Jennersville Regional Hospital in West Grove.

He was the husband of Linda Hall Flinn, with whom he shared 25 years of marriage. Born in Exton, he was the son the late the late Joseph and Mildred Greenleaf Flinn. He was a veteran of the U.S. Army and served in the Vietnam War. Robert was employed with Chester County Farms as a maintenance supervisor, and retired in 2015 after 29 years of service. He was a member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles Aerie No. 2666 and Mason Dixon Post No. 194 American Legion, Rising Sun, Md. He enjoyed motorcycles, his 1970 Torino classic car and watching the Green Bay Packers.

He is survived by his wife; one stepdaughter, Summer L. Warrick of Oxford; and one grandchild, Baylee Warrick. A memorial service will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be made to the American Lung Association, Donation Processing Center, PO Box 7000, Alberta Lea, MN 56007-8001; or American Heart Association, PO Box 15120, Chicago, IL 60693. Online condolences may be made at www. elcollinsfuneralhome.com.

MILTON C. JACKSON, JR.

Milton C. Jackson, Jr., died on Jan. 12 at the age of 87 of congestive heart failure, in Ponte Vedra Beach, Fla.

Milton was born in Philadelphia in 1929. He was the son of the late Admiral Milton C. Jackson and Hilda Butler Jackson. Milton attended The Episcopal Academy in Overbrook, Pa. After his graduation in 1947, he entered The Citadel in Charleston, S.C. In 1949, Milton entered The University of Virginia, graduating in 1952. He was a member of Phi Gamma Delta and enrolled in the Army ROTC at UVA. While completing his military requirements, Milton married Susan Burgess Jones of Wayne and Westtown, Pa. The couple spent a year in Ft. Eustis, Va., later making their home in Kennett Square. After leaving the military, he went to work for the family business. He loved golf, tennis and playing music. He became a member of The Kennett Square Golf and Country Club in 1955, as he enjoyed being actively involved in the community. He had a sense of humor and friendly manner that was enjoyed by all that knew him.

Milton is survived by four daughters, Susan Ellen Irving (Michael Irving) of Southampton, N.Y., Carol Jackson Smith (Stephen B. Smith, Jr.) of Jacksonville, Fla., Abigail Jackson Fleming (William J. Fleming) of East Hampton, N.Y., and Sarah Elizabeth Smith (Clayton K. Smith) of Boxford, Mass.; and one brother, Felix Jackson (Dena) of New Orleans, La. Milton was predeceased by his second wife of 30 years, Patricia McCormick; as well as his sister, Betty Ann Jackson Ryan.

Services and interment will be held privately. Contributions in his memory may be made to Wounded Warrior Project, P.O. Box 758517, Topeka, KS 66675. To view his online tribute and to share a memory with his family, visit www. griecocares.com.

EDITH LOMBARDI

Dementia surrendered her ability to navigate the present, but it didn’t take Edie Lombardi’s ability to love, determination to live or essence to be. Her life was a spirited lesson in fortitude and optimism; her passing an example in effect and grace. She died peacefully on Jan. 26.

Before her illness, Edie was an avid “Jeopardy” watcher, challenging herself and anyone who dared, to a half-hour of factual acuity. She enjoyed the maze of crossword puzzles, and the detective work of a good TV mystery. The originator of good housekeeping, Edie made the world’s best meatloaf. Born to Edith and Joseph Waldinger, “Silk City” is where she grew up, and worked in fashion and retail. It’s also where Edie met and married Maurice in 1960. For 50 years, they lived, loved and raised two daughters in North Western, N.J. Predeceased by Maurice (2011), she is survived by daughters, Lisa and Christie; sons-in-law Keith and Vinnie; and grandson Keith Michael. She is also survived by her brother Joseph and sister-in-law Joan; and many fond nieces and nephews.

To celebrate Edie’s life, a memorial service will be held at Holy Sepulcher Cemetery in Totowa, N.J., at a future date. Online condolences may be made at www. elcollinsfuneralhome.com.

CHARLES M. HALLMAN

Charles Michael Hallman, 75, of Oxford, formerly of Avondale, passed away on Jan. 25 at Coatesville Veterans Affairs Medical Center, surrounded by family.

He was the husband of Betty J. “McLennan” Hallman, with whom he shared 50 years of marriage. Born in Kennett Square, he was the son of Elvera “DiFilippo” Hallman of Oxford and the late Charles H. Hallman. Charlie was a veteran of the U.S. Navy Seabees, and served in the Vietnam and Gulf Wars.

He was a self-employed plumber, and retired as a security officer from Allied Barton in King of Prussia. He enjoyed his military service, hunting, fishing, metal detecting and gardening.

He is survived by his wife; mother; three sons, David (Anita) Hallman of Oxford, Glenn (Cathy) Hallman of West Grove, and Michael (Stacey) Hallman of New London; and seven grandchildren. Services were private, with burial at Indiantown Gap National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be made to Hospice at VA Medical Center, 1400 Blackhorse Hill Rd, Coatesville, PA 19320. Online condolences may be made at www.elcollinsfuneralhome.com.

HELEN C. CITINO

Helen C. Citino passed away peacefully on Jan. 29 at the age of 98 at Jenners Pond Retirement Community in West Grove.

For most of her life, she lived in the family home in Rosedale, Pa. She was the daughter of the late Peter and Josephine Fragale Citino. She retired in 1983 after 32 years of service at Hercules, Inc., in Wilmington. She first worked in the Advertising Department and later the Management Service Department. She was a former member of the Hercules Woman’s Club and the Advertising Club of Wilmington. She was a lifelong member of St. Patrick Church, attended the church school, and then went to Kennett High School, graduating in the class of 1936.

In addition to her parents, Helen was predeceased by brothers John and Anthony; and sisters Mary and Amelia. She is survived by several cousins.

She enjoyed working in her garden, canning the vegetables, and planting flowers around the house. She also enjoyed reading, and visiting with family and friends.

A funeral was held Feb. 3. Interment was in St. Patrick Cemetery in Kennett Square.

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

Weareofferingaspecialdiscountof25%offeachandeveryhelp wanted/classifiedadvertisementtoanybusinessthatadvertiseson thePRESSchurchpage.

For more information or to place an ad, contact Brenda Butt at 610-869-5553 ext. 10

In lieu of flowers, contributions in her memory may be made to St. Patrick Church, 205 Lafayette St., Kennett Square, PA 19348; or to Willow Tree Hospice, 616 E. Cypress St., Kennett Square, PA 19348. To view her online tribute and share a memory with her family, visit www. griecocares.com.

Feb. 15

Grief support group

GriefShare, an educational support group for adults who have lost a loved one due to death, begins Feb. 15 at Grove United Methodist Church (490 W. Boot Rd., north of West Chester). Open to the community, the program takes place on Wednesday evenings and runs through June 7. Free child care is provided for those who request it in advance. There is a $25 materials fee, but scholarships are available. Registration is requested. Call 610696-2663 or email pastor George at pastor. lin.george@gmail.com.

on the

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EXECUTOR, c/o Kristen R. Matthews, Esq., 17 W. Miner St., West Chester, PA 19382, Or to her Attorney: KRISTEN R. MATTHEWS MacELREE HARVEY, LTD. 17 W. Miner St. West Chester, PA 19382

2p-8-3t

granted to the undersigned. All persons having claims or demands against the said Estate to make known the same, all persons indebted to the decedent to make payment immediately, without delay to Scott Vines, Executor, 208 Lower Hopewell Rd., Oxford, PA 19363 2p-1-3t

ESTATE NOTICE

Notice is hereby given that Letters Testamentary on the Estate of Anna Burke , Deceased, late of West Pikeland Township, Chester County, PA. have been granted to the undersigned. All persons having claims or demands against the said Estate to make known the same, all persons indebted to the decedent to make payment immediately, without delay to Scott Burke, Executor, 1814 Conestoga Rd, Chester Springs, PA 19425 Or to Attorney: Katherine G. Weiss, P.O. Box 6157 Philadelphia, PA 19115

2p-1-3t

ESTATE NOTICE

NOTICE

A & H Trans, Inc. has been incorporated under the provisions of the Pennsylvania Business Corporation Law of 1988. 2p-8-1t

NOTICE AVONDALE PETROL, INC. has been incorporated under the provisions of the Pennsylvania Business Corporation Law of 1988. Eckell, Sparks, Levy, Auerbach, Monte & Sloane, P.C. 300 W. State St., (300) P.O. Box 319 Media, PA 19063

2p-8-1t

ESTATE NOTICE

Notice is hereby given that Letters Testamentary on the Estate of Mazhar Rishi, Deceased, late of Chadds Ford, Chester County, PA. have been granted to the undersigned. All persons having claims or demands against the said Estate to make known the same, all persons indebted to the decedent to make payment immediately, without delay to Samia Rishi , Executrix, or Attorney: Denise D. Nordheimer, Esq., 2001 Baynard Blvd, Wilmington, DE 19802

2p-8-3t

ESTATE NOTICE

Notice is hereby given that Letters Testamentary on the Estate of Lorraine Vines, Deceased, late of Lower Oxford Twp., Chester County, PA. have been

Notice is hereby given that Letters Testamentary on the Estate of Helen G. King, Deceased, late of Penn Twp., Chester County, PA. have been granted to the undersigned. All persons having claims or demands against the said Estate to make known the same, all persons indebted to the decedent to make payment immediately, without delay to Samuel L. King, Co- Executor, John Kevin King, Co- Executor C/O Attorney: Winifred Moran Sebastian 208 East Locust Street P.O. Box 381 Oxford, PA 19363

2p-1-3t

Sheriff Sale of Real Estate

By virtue of the within mentioned writ directed to Carolyn B. Welsh, Sheriff, will be sold at public sale, in the Chester County Justice Center, 201 West Market Street, West Chester, Pennsylvania, announced on Thursday, February 16, 2017 at 11AM prevailing time, the hereindescribed real estate. Notice is given to all parties in interest and claimants that the Sheriff will file in her office located in the Chester County Justice Center, Office of the Sheriff, 201 West Market Street,

IMPROVEMENTS:

PLAINTIFF:

DEFENDANT: CRAIG L. JACOBS

SALE ADDRESS: 206 Fox Run Lane, Lincoln University, PA 19352

PLAINTIFF ATTORNEY: KML LAW GROUP, P.C., 215-627-1322

N.B. Ten percent (10%) of the purchase money must be paid at the time and place of sale. 10% payment must be paid in cash, certified check or money order made payable to the purchaser or Sheriff of Chester Co. The final payment

PARCEL No.: 72-002-0019-0200

BEING known as:. 118 Pheasant Hill Lane, Landenberg, PA 19350

BEING the same property conveyed to Joseph Flinn and Linda Flinn, husband and wife who acquired title by virtue of a Deed from Unlimited Holding, LLC, a Pennsylvania Limited Liability Company, dated August 18, 2005, recorded September 7, 2005, at Deed Book 6610, Page 791, Chester County, Pennsylvania Records.

PLAINTIFF: US Bank National Association, as Trustee for GSR Mortgage Loan Trust 2005-AR7 VS DEFENDANT: JOSEPH FLINN and LINDA FLINN

SALE ADDRESS: 118 Pheasant Hill Lane, Landenberg, PA 19350 PLAINTIFF ATTORNEY: MANLEY DEAS KOCHALSKI, LLC, 614-2205611

N.B. Ten percent (10%) of the purchase money must be paid at the time and place of sale. 10% payment must be paid in cash, certified check or money order made payable to the purchaser or Sheriff of Chester Co. The final payment must be made payable to Sheriff of Chester Co. & is due twenty-one (21) days from the date of sale by 2PM. CAROLYN B. WELSH, SHERIFF 1p-25-3t Sheriff Sale of Real Estate By virtue of the within mentioned writ directed to Carolyn B. Welsh, Sheriff, will be sold at public sale, in the Chester County Justice Center, 201 West Market Street, West Chester, Pennsylvania, announced on Thursday, February 16, 2017 at 11AM prevailing time, the hereindescribed real estate. Notice is given to all parties in interest and claimants that the Sheriff will file in her office located in the Chester County Justice Center, Office of the Sheriff, 201 West Market Street, Suite 1201, West Chester, Pennsylvania, a Schedule of Distribution on Monday, March 20, 2017. Distribution will be made in accordance with the Schedule unless exceptions are filed hereto within ten (10) days thereafter.

SALE NO.

Sheriff will file in her office located in the Chester County Justice Center, Office of the Sheriff, 201 West Market Street, Suite 1201, West Chester, Pennsylvania, a Schedule of Distribution on Monday, March 20, 2017. Distribution will be made in accordance with the Schedule unless exceptions are filed hereto within ten (10) days thereafter.

SALE NO. 17-2-76 Writ of Execution No. 2016-06175 DEBT $391,967.87

PROPERTY situate in Township of Upper Oxford

TAX Parcel #: 57-8-12

IMPROVEMENTS. a residential dwelling.

PLAINTIFF: U.S. Bank, N.A., Successor Trustee to LaSalle Bank National Association, on behalf of the holders of Bear Stearns Asset Backed Securities I Trust 2007-HE2, Asset Backed Certificates, Series 2007-HE2 VS DEFENDANT: VINCENT J. TALIERCIO, JR.

SALE ADDRESS: 100 Webb Road, Lincoln University, PA 19352

PLAINTIFF ATTORNEY: KML LAW GROUP, P.C., 215-627-1322

N.B. Ten percent (10%) of the purchase money must be paid at the time and place of sale. 10% payment must be paid in cash, certified check or money order made payable to the purchaser or Sheriff of Chester Co. The final payment must be made payable to Sheriff of Chester Co. & is due twenty-one (21) days from the date of sale by 2PM. CAROLYN B. WELSH, SHERIFF 1p-25-3t

Sheriff Sale of Real Estate

By virtue of the within mentioned writ directed to Carolyn B. Welsh, Sheriff, will be sold at public sale, in the Chester County Justice Center, 201 West Market Street, West Chester, Pennsylvania, announced on Thursday, February 16, 2017 at 11AM prevailing time, the hereindescribed real estate. Notice is given to all parties in interest and claimants that the Sheriff will file in her office located in the Chester County Justice Center, Office of the Sheriff, 201 West Market Street, Suite 1201, West Chester, Pennsylvania, a Schedule of Distribution on Monday, March 20, 2017. Distribution will be made in accordance with the Schedule unless exceptions are filed hereto within ten (10) days thereafter.

SALE NO. 17-2-77 Writ of Execution No. 2010-00913 DEBT $555,772.81

PROPERTY situate in the Township of Kennett, Chester County, Pennsylvania

BLR# 62-4-745

IMPROVEMENTS thereon: residential dwelling

PLAINTIFF: Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. VS DEFENDANT: DAVID J. CRANSTON

SALE ADDRESS: 203 Blue Spruce Drive, Kennett Square, PA 193484108

PLAINTIFF ATTORNEY: PHELAN HALLINAN DIAMOND & JONES, LLP, 215-563-7000

N.B. Ten percent (10%) of the purchase money must be paid at the time and place of sale. 10% payment must be paid in cash, certified check or money order made payable to the purchaser or Sheriff of Chester Co. The final payment must be made payable to Sheriff of Chester Co. & is due twenty-one (21) days from the date of sale by 2PM. CAROLYN B. WELSH, SHERIFF 1p-25-3t Sheriff Sale of Real Estate

By virtue of the within mentioned writ directed to Carolyn B. Welsh, Sheriff, will be sold at public sale, in the Chester County Justice Center, 201 West Market Street, West Chester, Pennsylvania, announced on Thursday, February 16, 2017 at 11AM prevailing time, the hereindescribed real estate. Notice is given to all parties in interest and claimants that the Sheriff will file in her office located in the Chester County Justice Center, Office of the Sheriff, 201 West Market Street, Suite 1201, West Chester, Pennsylvania, a Schedule of Distribution on Monday, March 20, 2017. Distribution will be made in accordance with the Schedule unless exceptions are filed hereto within ten (10) days thereafter.

SALE NO. 17-2-80 Writ of Execution No. 2013-04554 DEBT $113,533.86

ALL THAT CERTAIN lot or parcel of ground situate in London Britain Township, Chester County, Pennsylvania, bounded and described according to Plan of Property for John W. and Elizabeth S. Ware, prepared by C.A. Barron, Registered Surveyor, as follows, to wit:

BEGINNING on the northerly right of way line of Crestview Road the southerly corner of Lot No. 9, which point is measured along the said right of way line the three following courses

West Grove, PA 19390

28.13

CONTAINING

same more or less.

TAX I.D.: 73-2-25.10

BEING the same premises which Marie P. Broadwater, widow by Deed dated 11/1/2007 and recorded 11/26/2007 in Chester County in Book 7312 Page 597 conveyed unto Ralph R. Broadwater and Catherine Broadwater, his wife, as tenants by the entireties, in fee.

IMPROVEMENTS: single family dwelling

PLAINTIFF: Springlead Financial Services of Pennsylvania, Inc., fka American General Consumer Discount Company VS DEFENDANT: RALPH R. BROADWATER, aka RALPH R. BROADWATER, JR. and CATHERINE BROADWATER, aka CATHERINE J. BROADWATER

SALE ADDRESS: 5 Crestview Road, Landenburg, PA 19350

PLAINTIFF ATTORNEY: CRAIG H. FOX, ESQ., 610-275-7990

N.B. Ten percent (10%) of the purchase money must be paid at the time and place of sale. 10% payment must be paid in cash, certified check or money order made payable to the purchaser or Sheriff of Chester Co. The final payment must be made payable to Sheriff of Chester Co. & is due twenty-one (21) days from the date of sale by 2PM. CAROLYN B. WELSH, SHERIFF 1p-25-3t

Sheriff Sale of Real Estate

By virtue of the within mentioned writ directed to Carolyn B. Welsh, Sheriff, will be sold at public sale, in the Chester County Justice Center, 201 West Market Street, West Chester, Pennsylvania, announced on Thursday, February 16, 2017 at 11AM prevailing time, the hereindescribed real estate. Notice is given to all parties in interest and claimants that the Sheriff will file in her office located in the Chester County Justice Center, Office of the Sheriff, 201 West Market Street, Suite 1201, West Chester, Pennsylvania, a Schedule of Distribution on Monday, March 20, 2017. Distribution will be made in accordance with the Schedule unless exceptions are filed hereto within ten (10) days thereafter.

SALE NO. 17-2-81 Writ of Execution No. 2011-10013 DEBT $251,757.24

PROPERTY situate in the Atglen Borough, Chester County, Pennsylvania BLR# 7-6-1.21

IMPROVEMENTS thereon: residential dwelling

PLAINTIFF: LSF9 Master Participation Trust VS DEFENDANT: JAMES J. GRAMLICH

SALE ADDRESS: 602 Cattail Road, Atglen, PA 19310-9739

PLAINTIFF ATTORNEY: PHELAN HALLINAN DIAMOND & JONES, LLP, 215-563-7000

N.B. Ten percent (10%) of the purchase money must be paid at the time and place of sale. 10% payment must be paid in cash, certified check or money order made payable to the purchaser or Sheriff of Chester Co. The final payment must be made payable to Sheriff of Chester Co. & is due twenty-one (21) days from the date of sale by 2PM. CAROLYN B. WELSH, SHERIFF 1p-25-3t

Sheriff Sale of Real Estate

By virtue of the within mentioned writ directed to Carolyn B. Welsh, Sheriff, will be sold at public sale, in the Chester County Justice Center, 201 West Market Street, West Chester, Pennsylvania, announced on Thursday, February 16, 2017 at 11AM prevailing time, the hereindescribed real estate. Notice is given to all parties in interest and claimants that the Sheriff will file in her office located in the Chester County Justice Center, Office of the Sheriff, 201 West Market Street, Suite 1201, West Chester, Pennsylvania, a Schedule of Distribution on Monday, March 20, 2017. Distribution will be made in accordance with the Schedule unless exceptions are filed hereto within ten (10) days thereafter.

SALE NO. 17-2-96

Writ of Execution No. 2015-05797

DEBT $453,671.97

PROPERTY situate in Township of London Grove

TAX Parcel #59-10-3.38

IMPROVEMENTS: a residential dwelling.

PLAINTIFF: PNC Bank National Association, Successor by Merger to National City Mortgage, a Division of National City Bank VS DEFENDANT: CHIOMA A.

ALEXANDER and PAUL NJOKU

SALE ADDRESS: 19 Radence Lane,

PLAINTIFF ATTORNEY: KML LAW GROUP, P.C., 215-627-1322

N.B. Ten percent (10%) of the purchase money must be paid at the time and place of sale. 10% payment must be paid in cash, certified check or money order made payable to the purchaser or Sheriff of Chester Co. The final payment must be made payable to Sheriff of Chester Co. & is due twenty-one (21) days from the date of sale by 2PM. CAROLYN B. WELSH, SHERIFF 1p-25-3t

Sheriff Sale of Real Estate

By virtue of the within mentioned writ directed to Carolyn B. Welsh, Sheriff, will be sold at public sale, in the Chester County Justice Center, 201 West Market Street, West Chester, Pennsylvania, announced on Thursday, February 16, 2017 at 11AM prevailing time, the hereindescribed real estate. Notice is given to all parties in interest and claimants that the Sheriff will file in her office located in the Chester County Justice Center, Office of the Sheriff, 201 West Market Street, Suite 1201, West Chester, Pennsylvania, a Schedule of Distribution on Monday, March 20, 2017. Distribution will be made in accordance with the Schedule unless exceptions are filed hereto within ten (10) days thereafter.

SALE NO. 17-2-98 Writ of Execution No. 2015-05127

DEBT $379,998.26

PROPERTY situate in the Sadsbury Township, Chester County, Pennsylvania

BLR# 37-4-211

IMPROVEMENTS thereon: residential dwelling

PLAINTIFF: U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee for Credit Suisse First Boston Mortgage Securities Corp., Csmc MortgageBacked Pass-Through Certificates, Series 2006-4 VS DEFENDANT: ROSALINE WOOLFOLK and OLIVER W. WOOLFOLK

SALE ADDRESS: 40 Wick Drive, Parkesburg, PA 19365-9108

PLAINTIFF ATTORNEY: PHELAN HALLINAN DIAMOND & JONES, LLP, 215-563-7000

N.B. Ten percent (10%) of the purchase money must be paid at the time and place of sale. 10% payment must be paid in cash, certified check or money order made payable to the purchaser or Sheriff of Chester Co. The final payment must be made payable to Sheriff of Chester Co. & is due twenty-one (21) days from the date of sale by 2PM. CAROLYN B. WELSH, SHERIFF 1p-25-3t

Sheriff Sale of Real Estate

By virtue of the within mentioned writ directed to Carolyn B. Welsh, Sheriff, will be sold at public sale, in the Chester County Justice Center, 201 West Market Street, West Chester, Pennsylvania, announced on Thursday, February 16, 2017 at 11AM prevailing time, the hereindescribed real estate. Notice is given to all parties in interest and claimants that the Sheriff will file in her office located in the Chester County Justice Center, Office of the Sheriff, 201 West Market Street, Suite 1201, West Chester, Pennsylvania, a Schedule of Distribution on Monday, March 20, 2017. Distribution will be made in accordance with the Schedule unless exceptions are filed hereto within ten (10) days thereafter.

SALE NO. 17-2-99

Writ of Execution No. 2016-06054

DEBT $539,713.24

ALL THAT CERTAIN lot or piece of land with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate in the Township of East Nottingham, County Chester and State of Pennsylvania, described according to a Plan of “Heather Fields”, made by N. M. Lake Associates, Inc., dated 11/1/1995, last revised 6/7/1996, recorded at West Chester in the Office of the Recorder of Deeds on 6/14/1996, in Plan File # 13429, as follows:

TAX I.D. #: 69-04-0051

PLAINTIFF: Federal National Mortgage Association (“Fannie Mae”), a Corporation organized and existing under the laws of the United States of America VS DEFENDANT: JESSICA STEERE and GARY STEERE

SALE ADDRESS: 100 Bryans Way, Lincoln University, Pennsylvania 19352

PLAINTIFF ATTORNEY: McCABE, WEISBERG & CONWAY, P.C., 215790-1010

N.B. Ten percent (10%) of the purchase money must be paid at the time and place of sale. 10% payment must be paid in cash, certified check or money order made payable to the purchaser or Sheriff of Chester Co. The final payment must be made payable to Sheriff of Chester Co. & is due twenty-one (21) days from the date of sale by 2PM. CAROLYN B. WELSH, SHERIFF 1p-25-3t Sheriff Sale of Real Estate By virtue of the within mentioned

interest and claimants that the Sheriff will file in her office located in the Chester County Justice Center, Office of the Sheriff, 201 West Market Street, Suite 1201, West Chester, Pennsylvania, a Schedule of Distribution on Monday, March 20, 2017. Distribution will be made in accordance with the Schedule unless exceptions are

PROPERTY

IMPROVEMENTS thereon: residential dwelling

PLAINTIFF: Bank of America, N.A., Successor by Merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, LP fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, LP VS DEFENDANT: ISIDORO GONZALEZ and VICTORIA MCELWAINE

SALE ADDRESS: 631 Linden Circle, Kennett Square, PA 19348

PLAINTIFF ATTORNEY: PHELAN HALLINAN DIAMOND & JONES, LLP, 215-563-7000

N.B. Ten percent (10%) of the purchase money must be paid at the time and place of sale. 10% payment must be paid in cash, certified check or money order made payable to the purchaser or Sheriff of Chester Co. The final payment must be made payable to Sheriff of Chester Co. & is due twenty-one (21) days from the date of sale by 2PM. CAROLYN B. WELSH, SHERIFF 1p-25-3t Sheriff Sale of Real Estate By virtue of the within mentioned writ directed to Carolyn B. Welsh, Sheriff, will be sold at public sale, in the Chester County Justice Center, 201 West Market Street, West Chester, Pennsylvania, announced on Thursday, February 16, 2017 at 11AM prevailing time, the hereindescribed real estate. Notice is given to all parties in interest and claimants that the Sheriff will file in her office located in the Chester County Justice Center, Office of the Sheriff, 201 West Market Street, Suite 1201, West Chester, Pennsylvania, a Schedule of Distribution on Monday, March 20, 2017. Distribution will be made in accordance with the Schedule unless exceptions are filed hereto within ten (10) days thereafter.

SALE NO. 17-2-107 Writ of Execution No. 2012-12928 DEBT $319,680.25

PROPERTY situate in the London Grove Township, Chester County, Pennsylvania

BLR# 59-8-674

IMPROVEMENTS thereon: residential dwelling

PLAINTIFF: Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. VS DEFENDANT: MICHELLE BOYD

SALE ADDRESS: 853 Easkey Lane, Avondale, PA 19311-9331

PLAINTIFF ATTORNEY: PHELAN HALLINAN DIAMOND & JONES, LLP, 215-563-7000

N.B. Ten percent (10%) of the purchase money must be paid at the time and place of sale. 10% payment must be paid in cash, certified check or money order made payable to the purchaser or Sheriff of Chester Co. The final payment must be made payable to Sheriff of Chester Co. & is due twenty-one (21) days from the date of sale by 2PM. CAROLYN B. WELSH, SHERIFF 1p-25-3t

Sheriff Sale of Real Estate

By virtue of the within mentioned writ directed to Carolyn B. Welsh, Sheriff, will be sold at public sale, in the Chester County Justice Center, 201 West Market Street, West Chester, Pennsylvania, announced on Thursday, February 16, 2017 at 11AM prevailing time, the hereindescribed real estate. Notice is given to all parties in interest and claimants that the Sheriff will file in her office located in the Chester County Justice Center, Office of the Sheriff, 201 West Market Street, Suite 1201, West Chester, Pennsylvania, a Schedule of Distribution on Monday, March 20, 2017. Distribution will be made in accordance with the Schedule unless exceptions are filed hereto within ten (10) days thereafter.

SALE NO. 17-2-112

Writ of Execution No. 2016-03809 DEBT $156,760.72

PROPERTY situate in Borough of Kennett Square

TAX Parcel #3-4-8.2

IMPROVEMENTS: a residential dwelling.

PLAINTIFF: Nationstar Mortgage LLC

D/B/A Champion Mortgage Company VS DEFENDANT: MICHALE JOHNSON a/k/a MICHALE ANN JOHNSON

SALE ADDRESS: 514 D Street, Kennett Square, PA 19348

PLAINTIFF ATTORNEY: KML LAW GROUP, P.C., 215-627-1322 N.B.

of ground situate in Kennett Township, Chester County, Pennsylvania, described according to a final subdivision plan of “Chandler Mill” by George E. Regester, Jr., & Sons, Inc., Registered Land Surveyors, Kennett Square, Pennsylvania, dated February 20, 1988 and

PLAINTIFF:

Satisfy that sweet tooth at the Chocolate Lovers Festival

If you can’t turn down a succulent piece of chocolate, you need to celebrate “all things chocolate” at the Kennett Chocolate Lovers Festival on Sunday, Feb. 12, at Kennett High School between 1 and 3 p.m. Professionals, amateurs and students will vie for ribbons when their creations are judged. Last year, more than 200 chocolate entries were judged and available to taste. Winners included The Country Butcher, The Gables in Chadds Ford and Heavenly Sweet Chocolate, plus amateurs and students from throughout the area.

The festival raises funds for United Way of Southern Chester County, which supports 27 health and human service programs in the area.

A new addition this year is the Year of Living Chocolate raffle. For $10 (or $20 for three tickets), you can be entered in a raffle to win a chocolate dessert monthly from different area bakers and chocolatiers, starting with Ann’s Chocolate Banana Cake from The Gables at Chadds Ford restaurant in March of 2017. You can pick up raffle tickets online at www.unitedwayscc.org/OurStore, in person

at the United Way offices, or at the festival. The drawing will be held on Feb. 14.

Contestants in the festival compete in several categories. After the judging, chocoholics of all ages are admitted to sample the winning treats. Connoisseur ticket holders may enter at noon, while general admission ticket holders enter at 1 p.m. Connoisseur tickets are $25 ($45 for two people) and include professional and amateur tastings, beverages, demonstrations by professional chocolatiers, and free parking. General admission tickets are $10

and JAMES M. RONAN

SALE ADDRESS: 7 Mocassin Drive, Atglen, PA 19310

($30 for a family of four) and include six regular tastings per person. Professional tastings are two tasting tickets. Additional tastings are available for 50 cents each.

For more information and fastest entry through the express line, visit www.kennettchocolate.org. Parking for general admission is $5 per car.

“We couldn’t do this festival without the support of our community,” said Carrie Freeman, CEO of United Way of Southern Chester County. “Thanks to our wonderful amateur and professional bakers and our

local sponsors, the Festival raised over $16,000 for our community last year.”

UWSCC serves the residents of four school dis-

tricts: Avon Grove, Kennett, Oxford, and UnionvilleChadds Ford. More than 18,000 people received support from UWSCC last year.

time, the hereindescribed real estate. Notice is given to all parties in interest and claimants that the Sheriff will file in her

located in the Chester County Justice Center, Office of the Sheriff, 201 West Market Street, Suite 1201, West Chester, Pennsylvania, a Schedule of Distribution on Monday, March 20, 2017. Distribution will be made in accordance with the Schedule unless exceptions are filed hereto within ten (10) days thereafter.

SALE NO. 17-2-123 Writ of Execution No. 2014-10379 DEBT $290,533.15 ALL THAT CERTAIN lot or piece of ground, situate in the Township of West Fallowfield, County of Chester and Commonwealth of PA bounded and described according to a Plan of Moccasin Woods, prepared by Mesko Associates, Inc., dated 12/30/1999, last revised 8/28/2000 and recorded in Chester County as Plan #15646 as follows, to wit:

BEGINNING at a point on the easterly side of Moccasin Drive, a corner of Lot #1 as shown on said Plan; thence from said point of beginning, along the said side of Moccasin Drive the following three courses and distances:

PLAINTIFF ATTORNEY: STERN & EISENBERG, P.C., 215-572-8111

N.B. Ten percent (10%) of the purchase money must be paid at the time and place of sale. 10% payment must be paid in cash, certified check or money order made payable to the purchaser or Sheriff of Chester Co. The final payment must be made payable to Sheriff of Chester Co. & is due twenty-one (21) days from the date of sale by 2PM. CAROLYN B. WELSH, SHERIFF 1p-25-3t

Sheriff Sale of Real Estate

By virtue of the within mentioned writ directed to Carolyn B. Welsh, Sheriff, will be sold at public sale, in the Chester County Justice Center, 201 West Market Street, West Chester, Pennsylvania, announced on Thursday, February 16, 2017 at 11AM prevailing time, the hereindescribed real estate. Notice is given to all parties in interest and claimants that the Sheriff will file in her office located in the Chester County Justice Center, Office of the Sheriff, 201 West Market Street, Suite 1201, West Chester, Pennsylvania, a Schedule of Distribution on Monday, March 20, 2017. Distribution will be made in accordance with the Schedule unless exceptions are filed hereto within ten (10) days thereafter.

SALE NO. 17-2-125 Writ of Execution No. 2016-05372 DEBT $236,928.09

PROPERTY situate in the Londonderry Township, Chester County, Pennsylvania BLR# 46-02-0433

IMPROVEMENTS thereon: residential dwelling

PLAINTIFF: Santander Bank, N.A. VS DEFENDANT: JOSEPH J. KALINOSKI and PATRICIA A. KALINOSKI

SALE ADDRESS: 311 Sweetwater Path, Cochranville, PA 19335-1007

writ directed to Carolyn B. Welsh, Sheriff, will be sold at public sale, in the Chester County Justice Center, 201 West Market Street, West Chester, Pennsylvania, announced on Thursday, February 16, 2017 at 11AM prevailing time, the hereindescribed real estate. Notice is given to all parties in interest and claimants that the Sheriff will file in her office located in the Chester County Justice Center, Office of the Sheriff, 201 West Market Street, Suite 1201, West Chester, Pennsylvania, a Schedule of Distribution on Monday, March 20, 2017.

BEING Lot #2 as shown on

BEING UPI #

BEING the

and

unto James Ronan and Beth Ronan.

PLAINTIFF: Wilmington Savings Fund Society, FSB, doing business as Christiana Trust, not in its individual capacity but solely as Trustee for BCAT 2015-13BTT VS

DEFENDANT: BETH RONAN a/k/a BETH A. RONAN and JAMES RONAN

PLAINTIFF ATTORNEY: PHELAN HALLINAN DIAMOND & JONES, LLP, 215-563-7000

N.B. Ten percent (10%) of the purchase money must be paid at the time and place of sale. 10% payment must be paid in cash, certified check or money order made payable to the purchaser or Sheriff of Chester Co. The final payment must be made payable to Sheriff of Chester Co. & is due twenty-one (21) days from the date of sale by 2PM. CAROLYN B. WELSH, SHERIFF 1p-25-3t Sheriff Sale of Real Estate By virtue of the within mentioned

in the Township of East Nottingham, County of Chester & Comm. of Penna. bounded & described according to a final subdivision plan of Hunter Knoll Estates, prepared by Crossan-Raimato, Inc., dated 4/14/98, last revised 1/18/99 & recorded in

4 courses & distances: (1) on the arc of a circle curving to the

JAN NOEL HEY

Jan Noel Hey, formerly of Kennett Square, passed away on Feb. 3 at the Country House in Wilmington, Del. She was 72 years old.

Born in Philadelphia to the late Helen Weiner and John Weightman, Jan was raised primarily in the Kennett Square area by her mother and loving late stepfather, Leon N. Weiner. Jan was a 1964 graduate of Kennett High School and enjoyed a brief career as a nurse before marrying Neil deLeeuw and raising their three children. In her youth, Jan was an avid equestrian and maintained her passion for horses throughout her life. She fondly talked about the time she spent working with horses and loved telling her friends and family about her experiences with the animals. Jan’s other favorite pastimes during her lifetime included playing tennis and spending time with locals on the beaches of the Outer Banks of North Carolina. She was always drawn to the sea, whose nature was sometimes as tempestuous and unpredictable as her own.

Jan will likely be remembered by those who knew her for the enthusiastic and unapologetic way she lived her life. Always spontaneous and ready for her next adventure, Jan’s humorous and sometimes ironic perspectives on life surely made their marks on the lives of those who knew her. Her authentic generosity of spirit was reflected in her impromptu gifting of unusual and surprising presents and advice to those she loved. Her unique expressions of thoughtfulness will be missed.

Jan is survived by her three children Jason deLeeuw (Kristina), Brad deLeeuw, and Hillary Spruance (Jake); as well as her grandchildren Riley, Max, and Savannah deLeeuw, Marina and Charlotte deLeeuw, and Jake and Matthew Spruance. She was predeceased by her husband, Jerrold (Jerry) Hey.

A visitation with family will be held from 5 to 6:30 p.m. Feb. 10 at the Longwood Funeral Home of Matthew Genereux (913 East Baltimore Pike, Kennett Square). Burial will be private. Visit www.longwoodfuneralhome.com.

DOUGLAS O. WEAVER

Douglas O. Weaver, 55, of Oxford, passed away on Feb. 3 at Christiana Hospital. He was the husband of Jacqueline Owens Weaver. Born in West Chester, he was the son of Paul and Janice Reeves Baccino of Trout Run. He enjoyed the beach, gardening, NASCAR and his Chevy truck.

He is survived by his wife; parents; one daughter, Jodi Taylor (James) of Oxford; two grandchildren, Andrew and Grace; brother, Jason Weaver of Ardmore; and sister, Kelly Weaver of Ardmore.

Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Feb. 8 at the Edward L. Collins, Jr. Funeral Home, Inc. (86 Pine St., Oxford), where friends may visit 1 to 2 p.m. Interment will be private. Visit www. elcollinsfuneralhome.com.

MARY E. OWENS ROARK

Mary E. Owens Roark, 93, of West Grove, passed away peacefully on Feb. 2, surrounded by her family.

She was the wife of Ferry Roark, who passed away in 1974, with whom she shared seven years of marriage. Her first husband, John Owens, passed away in 1966, with whom she shared 30 years of marriage. Born in Ashe County, N.C., she was the daughter of the late Gilbert and Matry Mitchum Latham. She was a housekeeper at Chatham Acres Nursing Home for many years. Mary was a member of the Kennett Square Missionary Baptist Church. She enjoyed gardening, and being with her family and friends. The family would like to thank April for the special care given to Mary. Mary is survived by four daughters, Kathryn Bolden of Clear Spring, Md., Hazel Owens of New London, Peggy Parsons of Stevens, Pa., and Jeanne Nantais of Newark, Del.; 15 grandchildren; 28 great-grandchildren; and 12 great-greatgrandchildren. She was predeceased by one son, John Owens; one sister, Pearl Eades; and three brothers, Gene Latham, William Breeding and Elmer Breeding.

A visitation will be held from 11 a.m. to noon on Feb. 8 at the Foulk & Grieco Funeral Home (200 Rose Hill Rd., West

Avon Grove Library helps preschoolers

Chester County has been selected to participate in a new program called Play K, which focuses on using play to help preschoolers develop the skills needed to be successful in kindergarten and later in life.

According to the Pennsylvania Office of Child Development and Early Learning, 34 percent of Chester County children aged 3 and 4 are living in households earning 300 percent or less of the Federal Poverty Level of income. Of that group, 83 percent are currently not served through a formal Pre-K program. Studies show that children without the benefit of a Pre-K program often struggle when beginning kindergarten.

Grove). Her funeral service will follow at noon. Burial will be inUnion Hill Cemetery in Kennett Square. In memory of Mary, a contribution may be made to Willow Tree Hospice, 100 Sycamore Drive, West Grove, PA 19390. Online condolences may be made by visiting www.griecocares.com.

DONNA L. WEBB

Donna L. Webb, 57, of New Ringgold, Pa., passed away on Jan. 25 at home.

She was the wife of Christopher Webb, with whom she shared 16 years of marriage. They enjoyed cooking, and taking long drives together. She was previously married to John P. Herr for 19 years. Born in West Grove Hospital and raised in Nottingham, she was the daughter of the late Caroline Root Brown and the late Paul Francis Brown. Donna graduated from Oxford High School in June 1977. She worked at Herr’s Snack Foods for two summers, and the Oxford Court House as an administrative assistant. She spent many years managing the LASER program at Lincoln University, working closely with multiple NASA programs. Donna also worked

for ATACS in Oxford as a secretary. She was a member of the Union Fire Company No. 1, Quarryville Fire Company No. 1, and the Keystone Reptile Club. She moved to Breinigsville, Pa., in 1998, and then New Ringgold in 2002, and began working for Colliers Real Estate as an administrative assistant. She enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren, putting together puzzles and playing board games. Donna loved hanging out with her kitties, and playing the piano and video games.

In addition to her husband Chris, Donna is survived by her daughter April Heisey (George) from Conestoga, Pa., daughter Stepfanie Herr (Jeff Eachus) of Coatesville; sisters Wanda Brown Nitsch, (Norbert) of St. Augustine, Fla., and Paula Hanby (Anthony) of Nottingham. She is also survived by four nephews and eight grandchildren, Brent, Preston, Lily, Hannah, Morgan, Braelyn, Tyler and Michael.

A memorial service will be held Feb. 18 at Union Fire Company No. 1 Banquet Hall in Oxford. Service begins at 11 a.m., followed by a lunch reception. In lieu of flowers, donations can be sent to Peaceable Kingdom Shelter & Clinic, 1049 MacArthur Rd., Whitehall, PA 18052 (www.lvpeaceablekingdom.info/donate).

The Office of Commonwealth Libraries is working to narrow this gap by partnering with public libraries to offer a new program called Play K. The program provides materials and activities for six different play and learn centers or “playscapes.” Each center is designed around an early childhood theme or topic to provide an interactive learning experience. Play K is aligned to Pennsylvania’s Learning Standards for Early Childhood, with the goal of promoting early learning skills within the library setting.

“The library is the social hub for the community – a place that not only offers a large selection of books, but also innovative programming for people of all ages,” said Denise Thomson, children’s programming specialist. Beginning in February, Avon Grove Library will introduce its first Play K programs using the new playscapes. Play K programs are scheduled for Wednesday afternoons from 2 to 3 p.m. starting on Feb. 8, with a monthly Saturday program starting Feb. 18 at 10 a.m. For more information, visit www.avongrovelibrary. org or call 610-869-2004.