Chester County Press 05-23-2018 Edition

School vandalism issue dominates U-CF School Board meeting

By John Chambless Staff Writer

There was plenty of work to be done at the May 21 meeting of the UnionvilleChadds Ford School Board at Poscopson Elementary School, but most of the evening was overshadowed by reports of vandalism at Unionville High School, and the administration’s suspension of one student in particular.

During public comment at the beginning of the meeting, a parent addressed the board, saying, “There has been vandalism going on, and the administration’s decision was to lock the bathrooms today. That speaks of a bigger discipline problem. There was an attempt to open a door, and the latch was slightly damaged. The student was suspended for vandalism. I bring this up because before we rush to judgment, we need to get all the facts. I feel this was grossly overdone.”

Another parent also addressed the issue, saying,

“We had a very disappointing day today at school. We watched as a phenomenal student had to miss his playoff game. This is a dream he’s had for four years. Last week, the bathrooms were closed at the high school – more bathrooms than is actually legal, by the way. There were two left open for all the students in the school. They had to sign in and sign out. There were many complaints at the school. One student attempted to enter the bathroom and had trouble with the door handle.

“What are we saying to students about the respect we have for them?” she added.

“It’s shameful. We have a problem with respect from the administration for the students and their voices. I’m sure administrators were very upset about the vandalism, but this student was not your vandal. Let’s show some respect for our kids, and let’s start at the top. The students are owned an apology, and this student’s family

Oxford School Board adopts budget with no tax increase

By Steven Hoffman Staff Writer

The Oxford School Board unanimously adopted a $69.2 million budget for the 2018-2019 school year on May 15. No tax increase will be necessary to balance the spending plan, district officials said.

The year-to-year expenditures are increasing by about $727,227, or 1.06 percent. Some line items in the budget are increasing by more than that—the statemandated PSERS costs are one example—but Oxford is also seeing a decrease in

other expenditures to balance the increases out.

Oxford also saw a year-to-year increase in revenues of $103,000 from local sources for the current year.

With no tax increase necessary, the millage rate will remain at 31.1484 mills for the 2018-2019 fiscal year.

With the current school year rapidly coming to a close, Oxford Area School District officials recognized the accomplishments of several students and groups of students during the meeting.

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Despite rain, Kennett Run draws 600 competitors

By Richard L. Gaw Staff Writer

The rain that fell on Kennett Square during the morning of May 19 was unrelenting and at times, pelting, but no one seemed to inform the 600 competitors at the 29th

annual Kennett Run that rain generally dampens the spirit.

It didn’t.

Instead, much like children at a mud puddle, runners emerged from protective tents at Anson B. Nixon Park, lined up at the start of the 5K and 10K, and

‘It’s happening here’

Charities, there was Continued on Page 2A

Local drug epidemic likely to get worse, DA Hogan tells Chamber audience

By Richard L. Gaw Staff Writer

Chester County District Attorney Tom Hogan may have served as the keynote speaker at the Southern Chester County Chamber of Commerce’s 4th Annual Inspirational Breakfast on May 17, but his address had far more to do with desperation than inspiration.

Before about 100 local leaders from business, government and law enforcement, Hogan delivered “To Live and Die in Chester County,” a 40-minute review of how the current opioid crisis in the community began, and how it has escalated to the point where its statistics and numbers “will blow your mind – things that you had no idea were in the background of this opioid epidemic,” Hogan said.

The numbers Hogan shared are horrific:

• Over the last 20 years, the U.S. has lost 500,000 people to drug overdoses.

• 91 people die every day from prescription opioid overdoses.

• Pennsylvania currently ranks fourth-highest of 50 states in the rate of drug overdoses, surpassed only by Ohio, West Virginia and Florida.

• In 2016, 97 Chester County residents died from drug overdoses, 250 died in Montgomery County and Philadelphia had 900 drug overdose deaths.

• In the last three years, drug overdoses have become the number-one cause of death in the U.S., and that the number of drug-related deaths in Chester County is expected to rise over the next three to five years.

“I can tell you that already for 2017, [Chester County] was at 144 [drug overdose deaths], and Philadelphia is up to around 1,300,” he said. “These numbers are going up for all of us. So brace yourselves. “This problem is mainly happening in the white, middle-to-upper-middle class communities. Look around this room now. It is not happening in North and West Philadelphia, where kids are overdosing. It’s happening here, to your neighbors.” Hogan said that public outrage about the most recent drug epidemic – seen mainly in the abuse of heroin and prescription drugs like oxycodone – has only begun to gain traction in the last year or so.

“If the same number of people were dying in a war

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Kennett Square to celebrate veterans with ‘patriotic hometown parade’

By Steven Hoffman Staff Writer

Kennett Square’s Memorial Day Parade is always a wonderful celebration of veterans, but Bill Taylor, the chairperson of the parade committee, promises that this year’s event on Memorial Day, May 28, could be the best one yet.

“It’s going to be a big parade,” Taylor said. “We have more than 100 units signed up already. A unit could be 150 scouts, it could be 25 military vehicles, or it could be one politician.”

Overall, the two-hour parade will feature approximately 1,500 participants, making it one of the largest Memorial Day showcases in the entire region.

“This parade has something for everybody,” Taylor said. “We have a tremendous

variety of entries―there’s something for all ages. It’s a patriotic hometown parade.”

Military veterans are kept front and center throughout the parade, starting with this year’s grand marshals, Harry F. Brown, Jr. and Gerald J. Breeden.

“We will have a lot of military units in the parade,” Taylor said, outlining just some of the participants who will be representing military service members from all eras in the nation’s history.

A Marine color guard unit will be prominently featured as will the Chester County chapter of the Vietnam Veterans of America. There will be high school Junior ROTC units, a Civil Air Squadron, the William E. Taylor U.S. Naval Cadets, Civil War and Revolutionary War reenactor units, fife and drum

never a doubt that Kennett Square’s most popular race was going to go off without a hitch. He and local police had spent the early morning examining the course, which they said was suitable for running.

“It was going to be rain or shine,” Daney said before the race. “Runners are going to run, rain or shine or snow or wind. They’re going to get wet, but they’re going to have fun.”

From a field of 165 runners in the John Schultz Memorial 10K race’s men’s division, Joshua Hibbs of Philadelphia won with a time of 32:23; and was followed by Darryl Brown of

Eaton, 34:06; and Andrew Hinrichs of Reading, 35:50. In the women’s division, Kimberly Cary of West Chester finished in first place with a time of 40:52, and was followed by Leigh Manning-Smith of West Chester, 41:21; and Athena Manolakos of Wilmington, 44:05.

Kent Hall of Kennett Square finished first in a field of 402 runners in the 5K men’s division, with a time of 16:12. He was followed by Gavin Maxwell of Kennett Square, 17:29; and Tim Garver of Downingtown, 17:47. In the women’s division, Abby Dean of Philadelphia won with a time of 18:50, followed by Sara Damiano of Austin, TX, 20:24; and Kennedy Zednik of Downingtown, 23:28.

In the annual Joe Hector PoweRun biathlon’s 5K competition, Oscar Galvan of Plymouth Meeting beat out 24 competitors, and was followed by Jorge Maldonado of Lincoln University and Devid Elsen of Vienna, Va. In the women’s division, Jessica White of Landenberg finished in first place, followed by Jennifer Abracht of Kennett Square and Loretta Perna of Kennett Square.

In the 10K event that had a field of 18 entrants, Jesus Juarez of Lincoln University finished in first place, followed by Michael Perna of Kennett Square and William Granche of Ridgeway, Pa.

Nova Timing Systems again served as the official timer for the Kennett Run.

For as many runners who

compete every year, the Kennett Run is known for an equal number of stories, told by competitors who choose to run for specific reasons. As he limbered in the rain just prior to the start of the John Schultz Memorial 10K Run, Christopher Kratz, a member of the Kennett High School track team, was joined by his mother, Lisa, who he invited to join him.

“She’s been so supportive of me over the past five years, since I began running competitively in the eighth grade,” Kratz said. “She’s come to every race of mine, and when she said to me, ‘I want to run a race with you,’ I thought that we’d run together at the Kennett Run.”

“The last time I ran competitively was in 1982, when I was a junior in high school,” said Lisa, who competed in the 5K race.

“My kids are my inspiration. Otherwise, I would be at home on the couch, watching the royal wedding. Chris is my role model, because he was the slowest kid in creation when he was younger. He used to run the bases in Little League and we’d be yelling at him to run faster.”

The Kennett Run also served to highlight causes again this year. Ruth Ann Deveney, Tiffany Lahn and Becky Minder each wore dresses through their race, in recognition of the Dressember Foundation, an organization that raises awareness, action and funding to end human trafficking around the world. The foundation’s main

event for Dressember is a challenge to advocates to wear a dress every day during December, but this year, the foundation hosted a 5K event in Los Angeles on May 20.

“The foundation is encouraging advocates, wherever they are, to participate in races,” Deveney said. “We’re wearing dresses in the race as conversation starters, about

how human trafficking is unfortunately very prevalent around the world, but that everyone can do something to make a difference, in small ways.” For a complete list of all finishers in each competition, visit www.kennettrun. net/results.

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

Oxford school board budget...

Vandalism...

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High school principal James Canaday introduced Frankie Fattori, who is the valedictorian for the high school’s Class of 2018.

Fattori earned a gradepoint-average of 4.6 during his time at the high school. He will be heading to the University of Pittsburgh in the fall.

Canaday also talked about the recent accomplishments of Chris Goodrich, who placed first out of 91 competitors in the Introduction to Business competition at the state’s Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) conference last month. What makes Goodrich’s performance even more impressive, Canaday noted, is the fact that he is only a freshman. Next, Goodrich will travel to Baltimore for the National FBLA Conference in June.

The school district recognized the members of the Oxford chapter of the Future Farmers of America. This program has grown quickly after it was relaunched in the district last year.

The Oxford Area School District has partnered with Cecil College on the Early College Academy, which allows high school students to take classes and earn college credits while they are still in high school. Canaday recognized the 15 high school students who are part of the first class of Early College Academy graduates. The graduation ceremony took place on May 20. These students have now earned associate’s degrees as they all move on to continue their academic careers.

“These individuals are true trailblazers,” Canaday said of the Early College Academy.

The school board thanked Alina Snopkowski for her service as the student representative to the school board for the last year. School board president Joseph Tighe presented Snopkowski with a plaque.

The school board approved a five-year contract for Michael Garrison to continue to serve as the district’s director of human resources. His appointment is effective July 1, 2018 through June 30, 2023.

The school district set participation fees at $75 for participating in a sport at the high school and $50 for participating in a sport at the Penn’s Grove School.

The Oxford School Board approved the firm of Barbacane, Thornton & Cmpany LLP to serve as the auditor for the next fiscal year ending June 30, 2019. It will cost $50 for high school students to park at the school.

Dr. Drew C. Eckman, DDS was appointed to serve as school dentist.

The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia Care Network was designated as the school district’s physician for the 218-2019 school year. The school board will meet again on Tuesday, June 12 for a work session. The next regular meeting will take place on Tuesday, June 19. Both meetings will take place at 7 p.m. in the district’s Administration Building.

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

District superintendent John Sanville responded, saying, “At the high school, we have had a rash of vandalism in the bathrooms. We have closed bathrooms that have been rendered unusable because of these incidents. We are well within code, by the way, but the bathrooms have been locked. These are all serious events, disheartening events, events that pain me personally.

“I think that when we look at our disciplinary code, it’s certainly our right to change the policy, but vandalism is there, and vandalism is a suspendable offense,” Sanville continuedl “I will tell you that all avenues are explored. Suspension is not done willy-nilly, it’s not done with malice. We have good kids, but even good kids make mistakes, and there should be consequences and the opportunity to learn from them.”

School Board member Gregg Lindner commented, “There have been at least four occasions that I have asked for a new suspension policy that would allow us to have appeals before a suspension is carried out, except in a case of violence. This is now the fifth time. I believe we should suspend the suspensions until we have a new policy in place. That may be the only way to get this board to move quickly and change our policy.”

The issue was raised again at the end of the formal meeting, during a second period of public comment. A student, Wes Saunders, detailed how the incident was handled in school. “Without warning, we got an email during second period, saying that we’d be confined to two bathrooms,” he said. “It seems like that was the right action to take. However, the execution was questionable. The original email was sent directly to all 1,400 students and administration. That means anyone can respond. The entire day, my email and teachers’ emails were flooded with hundreds of messages. We had students sending the entire Declaration of Independence. The entire day of education was wasted.

“This raises an issue about student attitude,” Saunders continued. “Throughout my last three years here, the administration is being mocked by the students. We had students reach out to 6-ABC News, saying ‘Come get our school in trouble. They’re confining us to two bathrooms.’ We had students reach out to the State Department about health standards. I’ve never seen students root against their own school, and against their own administration. The student attitude is frightening, in my opinion. A lot of students don’t want to be present at this school in the state that it’s in. They mock it, they disrespect teachers, administrators and their peers. The communication isn’t there to inform students, and perception is being severely harmed.”

A second student told the board, “It’s really disappointing that only four of you had heard about the events that happened today. The school’s first reaction to what happened today was to give him a suspension without any conversation, and he was not given any opportunity to learn from what he did. Who’s to say he wouldn’t learn from a warning, or an after-school detention? Also,

no one addressed that I and my fellow students were locked out of the office today when we tried to discuss this matter. That shows a total lack of respect from our administration.”

A parent also addressed the board, saying, “With all due respect, Dr. Sanville, you have to understand that there are gray areas. You say there’s no targeting of students, and there is fair and due process. In the case we’re representing here tonight, we feel there was no due process. This student is a leader in this school and in this commuinity. People look up to him as a shining example. He hasn’t even had a chance to say he did not go up and intentionally vandalize something. You are turning the student body against the school administration. He’s a good kid. The student body is looking at this as one of the most ridiculous things they’ve ever seen. We need to take a look at this suspension policy.”

During comments by School Board members, Robert Sage said, “One thing I didn’t understand until I looked into it is that the courts have acually limited rights of students in K-12 schools. Students do not enjoy the same full First Amendment privileges as we do, interacting with our government as adults. The courts have done that because the state has an interest in maintaining an orderly environment in the schools so all kids can learn, and there aren’t protests in the hallways all day long. It behooves all of us, as we talk about due process, to recognize that what we know from civics class and the Constitution is not exactly what our kids have in schools. But I do think that looking at the discipline policy is something the board should do quickly.”

Board vice president Victor Dupuis added, “I think a lot of the problem is miscommunication. We’re mixing events and circumstances and implications that are not necessarily directly connected. For instance, I would suggest that when Dr. Sanville is talking about vandalism, he’s talking about somebody who has ripped sinks off the bathroom wall, ripped out toilets, ripped pipes out of a bathroom. That is vandalism. This is a matter of getting together with the students and the community and having a conversation about this. The board will do our job of working on the legislative side of things and fixing the code of student conduct.”

Lindner added, “I think we have an obligation as board members to put in safeguards that allow for an appeal prior to somebody being given a suspension. That can be easily done. We know enough to know what fits. It’s now been eight months since the last activity at the football game in September, and we have an obligation to make sure we don’t begin the next school year before we have this corrected.”

Earlier in the meeting, the board voted unanimously to aprove Jessica Knier as the new assistant principal at Patton Middle School, at a salary of $115,000. Knier thanked the board and administration, saying, “What stood out to me in this process was that Patton is not only great academically, but it focuses on the whole child. It’s very clear that the staff goes above and beyond to make sure that the middle school years are positive for the children. I’m happy to be able to jump in.”

In Lower Oxford Township, two major projects moving through land-development process

By Steven Hoffman Staff Writer

Two major projects are making their way through the land-development process in Lower Oxford Township in 2018.

Lower Oxford Township supervisors recently held a conditional-use hearing regarding G.M. Leader Corp., which is seeking to locate a nursing home on a 12.5-acre parcel at 175 Limestone Road, near the Oxford Commons Shopping Center.

Conditional-use approval has been secured, with conditions, and now the project must go through the subdivision and landdevelopment process. As that project continues to move forward, Landhope Farms is looking to open its third convenience store in Chester County, and fourth overall, at the southeast corner of the intersection of Limestone Road (Route 10) and Conner Road.

Because the two projects are large in scope, it will take some time for the plans to be finalized and approved by the township.

The Landhope Farms convenience store will include a gas/diesel station. A traffic study was conducted in 2017, and a traffic light will be installed at the intersection. There will also be improvements to Conner Road.

Coincidentally, both projects are planned for Limestone Road. Once the Landhope and the nursing home are constructed, they

The board also thanked departing student representative Gavin Brezski, who has given reports on activities at the high school, and taken an active role in providing his opinion and input on issues throughout the year.

The board unanimously approved adopting the Say Something Anonymous Reporting System that allows reporting of students who may be a danger to themselves or others, and connects the students with emergency counseling or other services. The board also voted to allow the demolition of the

will be located only about a half a mile from each other.

The Leader family has been in the business of operating quality retirement services since 1962. It was founded by George M. Leader and Mary Jane Leader. George M. Leader served as Pennsylvania’s governor from 1955 to 1959, and while he was governor the state made strides in promoting safety and personal welfare for residents. The state’s Office of Aging was first established under Gov. Leader, and he and his wife were both interested in helping older adults maintain and enjoy personal independence and the highest possible quality of life. The family currently oversees eleven different retirement communities throughout the state, including locations in Allentown, Bethlehem, Mechanicsburg, Hershey, Lancaster, Wyomissing, and York.

During their most recent meeting on May 14, the Lower Oxford Township Board of Supervisors—Ron Kepler, Joel Brown, and Kevin Martin—handled a full agenda of items, including the opening of sealed bids, addressing some issues raised by residents during public comment, and more.

In his report about the Oxford Regional Planning Committee, Brown discussed how the most recent meeting of the committee focused on some issues related to the opioid epidemic that are impacting the local community. Emergency responders, the State Police, the Oxford Borough Police Department, and others

abandoned barn on Doe Run Road, at a cost of $4,500. The Barnyard Boys company will repurpose the salvaged wood.

And in personnel, the board approved the upcoming retirements of high school teacher Heidi Benson, Chadds Ford Elementary librarian Karen Carson, high school teacher and band director Scott Litzenberg, Patton Middle School para-

shared information about the opioid epidemic at the meeting. Brown said that a public meeting to discuss the opioid epidemic in the Oxford area might be scheduled for some time later this year.

Supervisor Ron Kepler offered an update about the Oxford Area Sewer Authority’s activities. He explained that the sewer authority has finished up a DCED grant application for funding that would be used for the 6th Street pumping station. Additionally, Kepler said, the sewer authority has put on the market two of its properties—the building that it owns in Oxford and the property on Brick Road. The sale of the properties is part of the sewer authority’s efforts to pay off about $1.2 million in past-due debt-service payments on a $27 million loan that was used to expand the sewer system.

The supervisors also unanimously appointed Jeremy McKinney to serve as the township’s representative on the Oxford Regional Recreational Authority board. Codes enforcement officer Terri Dugan reported to the board of supervisors that there were six zoning permits in the last month. The Lower Oxford Township supervisors will hold their next meeting on Monday, June 11.

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

professional Clare Geleta, and transportation driver Jessica Turgoose. Next month, the board will vote on the final budget for the upcoming school year. The documents are posted for public inspection on the school district’s website (www.ucfsd.org).

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

THREATS AT SCHOOL Pennsylvania State Police Avondale announced on May 17 that a suspect has been identified in connection with threats written on a wall at the Fred S. Engle Middle School.

On May 16, police responded to the school to examine comments written in a girls’ bathroom on the first floor. The comments referenced a school shooting that was going to take place. As a precaution, there was an increased police presence at the school.

On May 17, police investigated a second incident at the school involving a written threat. A juvenile suspect was interviewed, and confessed to having written both messages.

The investigation is ongoing and no decisions regarding criminal charges have been made, but police did remind the public that making such threats could result in expulsion from school and criminal charges.

GENERATOR STOLEN

A generator was stolen from behind a home at 244 Reedville Rd., Lower Oxford Township, between April 23 and 30, according to Pennsylvania State Police Avondale. A 27-year-old man from Delaware was identified as a suspect and charges are pending.

MAILBOXES

VANDALIZED

A homeowner at 111 Crowl Toot Road in Oxford reported to Pennsylvania State Police Avondale that their mailbox was hit by watermelon and eggs between May 7 and 8, destroying it. Also, between May 11 and 12, someone stole

a mailbox at 30 Morningmist Lane in Oxford and used it to damage another mailbox at 257 Glendale Road. Anyone with information is asked to call police at 610-268-2022.

THREATS AND ASSAULT

James Hannum, 52, of West Grove, was arrested by Southern Chester County Regional Police and charged with making terroristic threats, recklessly endangering another person, simple assault, and disorderly conduct after he allegedly threatened another man with a shotgun. The incident occurred on April 12 at about 7:15 p.m. in the 100 block of Prospect Avenue in West Grove. Hannum apparently heard the man arguing with a woman on the phone as he walked past Hannum’s house, and words were exchanged between the men. The victim walked home but returned and confronted Hannum about what was said.

Lions Club award for local member

Jack Melrath (right) received the prestigious Melvin Jones award on May 3 from fellow Lion and previous award recipient, Frank McFadden. A longtime Lion, Melrath has sponsored and worked for the Oxford Lions Club for 50 years. He has served in many capacities, notably as president for two terms. The history of the organization goes back to 1925, when Helen Keller attended the Lions Club International Convention and challenged Lions to become “knights of the blind in a crusade against darkness.” A Chicago businessman, Melvin Jones, then took up the challenge and subsequently integrated his club into what is now Lions Club International, the world’s largest service club organization.

Franklin Supervisors vote to support agricultural easement of dairy farm

By John Chambless Staff Writer

The Franklin Township Board of Supervisors voted to adopt a funding resolution for the purchase of an agricultural easement for the Stoltzfus farm property at their May 16 meeting.

The dairy farm at Strickersville and Appleton roads will be preserved as agricultural land by the resolution. Board chairman John Auerbach summarized the easement process, beginning with the June 2017 board meeting, at which the board supported the easement at a cost of $144,000. The final funding agreement, received in early 2018, indicated an increase of approximately $76,815. The original estimate covered 80

acres at $4,000 per acre, and the final agreement covered 98.14 acres at $5,000 per acre. Both Auerbach and board member David Snyder felt like this was a move to mislead the township, but other supervisors felt it was an honest mistake, since the original estimate came from a conservation organization, and not the county.

The final vote supported a funding agreement at a cost not to exceed $220,815. The township will not pay any incidental costs.

A report from the township zoning officer updated the board on four ongoing zoning issues:

308 Heather Hills: The bank has settled with a new owner of this property, and a check for $5,178 is being sent to the township;

3300 Appleton Road: The owner has begun cleanup by removing the boats, vehicles and other items. As a result, a District Court date has been continued for 30 days;

3327 Appleton Road: Summary citation papers have been filed in District Court and the property owner will be served;

1651 New London Road: The property owner is intending to start a paving business and was notified that he must fill out the proper paperwork for a change of use.

The board honored former supervisor Norman Hughes, who passed away in April. Hughes, who had served seven years as a supervisor (2005 through 2011), was honored with a proclamation. The board decided to plant a daylily garden

at Crossan Park, with a plaque in memory of Hughes. Mrs. Hughes will be contacted to give some of Norman’s daylilies to plant at the park.

Township resident Bob Weidenmuller asked the township to share information about the opioid epidemic. The information has been posted on the township website. In Chester County, a total of 153 people died of a drug overdose in 2017, compared with 106 in 2016, and 81 in 2015. Forty-seven percent of those who died in 2017 were under 35, and 53 percent were 35 or older. Six percent were over 65. These numbers do not reflect those who overdosed and survived.

The condition of the Hess Mill Road Bridge was also discussed. The timber bridge was first evaluated by PennDOT

in 2009, and although there were deficiencies noted, they have not deteriorated further over the last six years. Repairs and maintenance have been performed. The township will apply for a grant from the Chester County Conservation District to help with funding for the eventual replacement of the bridge.

State Rep. John Lawrence has provided the paperwork to add the bridge to the Pennsylvania “bridge bill,” which would allow the township to apply for state grant monies.

During public comment at the end of the meeting, resident Paul Overton commented that volunteers could do a lot of the work in Crossan Park. He said there are six trees down on the Banffshire Trails that need to be cut. He suggested the Franklin

Sportsman’s Association take on the project. He also discussed the new trees on Goodwin that are protected by plastic tubes, and explained that the tubes should not be removed until they split. Overton also said that the vines wrapped around some mature trees on Goodwin will soon kill them if they aren’t taken down. He also mentioned that on the Pennock Bridge side of the Goodwin property, someone has disposed of a large amount of trash, including air conditioners, that needs to be cleaned up.

Updated township information is available at www.franklintownship.us.

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

New Garden supervisors adopt township’s ten-year comprehensive plan

By Richard L. Gaw Staff Writer

By a unanimous 5-0 vote at its May 21 meeting, the New Garden Township Board of Supervisors adopted the township’s 2018 Comprehensive Plan update, a ten-year plan that extends the goals of its 2005 comprehensive plan and spells out the township’s future goals and priorities.

Jennifer Leister Reitz, a senior planner with Thomas Comitta Associates and project manager for the plan, followed up her March 28 presentation before the board with a rehashing of the township’s priority projects. They include pursuing funding and design construction along the Route 41 corridor, and making intersection improvements near Sunny Dell Road; developing an official township zoning map

or from a disease in the last 20 years, people would be in the street, marching and yelling, calling out the government from the top down, demanding solutions,” Hogan said. “But it’s only in the last two years that people have started paying attention to these numbers, and the experts are telling us that the opioid crisis will expand to a half million more deaths. That’s how big a problem this is.”

The drug epidemic, Hogan said, has been exacerbated in recent years by a supplyand-demand relationship that has involved nearly everyone in the drug trade, from the medical profession prescribing legal narcotics to treat pain and injuries,

and ordinance amendments; updating the township’s Greenways Plan, and advancing trail connections along Baltimore Pike; creating streetscape improvements in Toughkenamon, as a plan to developing it as a center for business and housing; conducting a marketing analysis to improve the economic development of the township; studying traffic calming ideas and forming a traffic committee; completing an historic resources atlas survey; implementing the New Garden Flying Field master plan; creating a New Garden Township brand and identity; and establishing a township park in Toughkenamon.

Leister Reitz’ presentation was the final step in a multilayered process that has included several meetings with township stakeholders, and collaboration with

to drug trafficking organizations, largely from Mexico, who are sending a constantly growing supply of illegal narcotics like heroin over the border.

Close to home, Philadelphia has become the source of the purest and cheapest heroin in the U.S. – almost 70 percent pure – with costs far cheaper than the heroin sold in neighboring cities like New York City and Baltimore.

“It’s the heroin capitol of the United States,” he said. “The best explanation we’ve heard is that when heroin came out – and it was the Colombians who first bought it in – New York City had already been an established source of drug trafficking, through organized crime,” Hogan said. “These guys needed a new market, so they looked around and said,

the township’s Planning Commission, its board members, the Brandywine Conservancy, and transportation engineers, landscape architects and planners.

The township also held a community vision session at the township building on May 31, 2017, when dozens of residents provided input on what they considered were the key issues facing the township in the near future.

The session was complimented by an online survey that yielded more than 300 responses.

The 2005 Comprehensive Plan, Leister Reitz said, set the stage for several initiatives that are now in place: the completion of the township’s natural resources ordinance; its open space referendum that has resulted in the preservation of hundreds of acres of land; the sale of the town-

‘What’s close to New York, but is not New York, so we don’t get our legs broken?’

“They looked at Boston and they looked at Philly. Philly was a lot larger and centrally located.”

Hogan said that the current heroin epidemic is the latest stage in a series of three periods in the U.S. over the last 45 years that has seen heroin use rise astronomically. In the early 1970s, the popularity of heroin use was influenced by the impact it had on Vietnam War soldiers’ introduction to it during the conflict, heightened by the fact that the drug was produced in Southeast Asia.

By 1975 – as the Vietnam War came to a close – the epidemic faded from view, only to resurface in the 1990s, when the “Heroin

ship’s sewer system and the regionalization of the township’s police department.

“At its heart, a comprehensive plan is about the quality of life in a township,” Leister Reitz said. “Our approach to the comprehensive plan was to really ask the questions, ‘What is important to the residents of this township?’ ‘What issues are they facing?’ and ‘How can we make that better in the future?’”

Reitz said that the township’s comprehensive plan is meshing with the ideas and objectives seen in the comprehensive plans of nearby municipalities, and are both reasonable and sustainable.

“A required element of the comprehensive plan is to review the comprehensive plans of surrounding municipalities, to identify where there may be future conflicts, and where they compliment

Chic” look became the new fashion statement and influence on popular culture, until it eventually subsided when fear rose over the association between the use of hypodermic needles and the rising AIDS crisis.

The most current rise of heroin, Hogan said, was influenced by the increase in the use of crack cocaine, crystal meth, and then opioids. It’s a bridge drug, he said, and it’s cheaper. The cost of oxycodone can cost as much as $30 a pill, and when multiplied by ten pills used a day, it can lead to the addict finding less expensive methods of maintaining an addiction.

“Can you keep up as a kid, two thousand bucks a week?” Hogan said. “No. You can’t, so what do you do? But if it’s thirty bucks

NEUMANN UNIVERSITY MASTER’S DEGREE ORGANIZATIONAL AND STRATEGIC LEADERSHIP

each other,” she said. “Far and away, this comprehensive plan is consistent with the surrounding townships and boroughs.”

Reitz said that a comprehensive plan serves as a major tool in terms of acquiring grant money from the state and county, that can then be used to leverage other funding.

“Can you adapt an official map? Absolutely,” Reitz said. “Can you update your Greenways Plan? Absolutely. There is funding for that from the county. It may not happen during the next round or a year from now, but it could happen within the next three years.”

In other township news, the board approved a 30-day extension to the township’s final purchase of St. Anthony in the Hills. Township manager Tony Scheivert told the

board that the township is doing some additional environmental testing on the site, and that he is confident that there will be an agreement of sale for the board to consider at its June 18 meeting.

At its Feb. 20 meeting, the board approved the township’s acquisition of the 137.5-acre property for an undisclosed price.

The board also approved a joint collaboration between the township and Kennett Township to pursue a $250,000 multi-modal grant from the Department of Community and Economic Development, that if granted will be used to create a trail link from The Preserve at New Garden to the Kennett Greenway Trail.

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

a pill for Oxy, we can take care of your problem, particularly here in southeastern Pennsylvania, because we can take you to Philly and for five bucks, we can get you a dose of heroin. Suddenly, your $300-a-day addiction just went down to ten bags at fifty bucks a day.”

If heroin and its partner fentanyl accounts for the dirty, back alley aspect of the most recent drug epidemic, then it’s the astronomical rise in the abuse of prescription drugs that has come to be defined as the clean and perfectly legal component of the crisis, and its numbers are equally as startling: In 1998, the U.S. produced 11.5 tons of oxycodone. In 2013, 138 tons were produced, and today, U.S. citizens consume about 90 percent of the quantity made.

It’s coming from the doctors, Hogan said.

“There was a study done several years ago that stated that oxycodone was not addictive, which ricocheted around the medical industry,” he said. “Can you imagine saying that now, with a straight face? But for a good ten years, doctors were told that oxycodone was not addictive. Doctors were told to monitor their patients for pain levels – as part of their primary function of care – to treat pain.

“Guess what? Oxycodone is really good at treating pain. The doctors’ response was, ‘I am doing my duty. I am treating the pain. I am prescribing this non-addictive drug to my patients,’ and that’s how we went from 11 tons to 138 tons.”

Prescription drugs rank nearly as high on the death threat rankings in southeastern Pennsylvania as heroin and fetanayl, cocaine, marijuana and crystal meth.

“If you would have asked me when I was a federal prosecutor if I would ever be up here telling you that drug threat rankings would include prescription drugs, I would have told you that you were nuts, flat out crazy,” Hogan said. “But that is what’s going on in southeastern Pennsylvania.

“You take a 16 year-old kid who blows out his knee, who has never had alcohol, never had caffeine or nicotine, and you give him the most powerful drug on earth – synthetic heroin – they are going to get addicted. It is going to be the best thing they’ve ever felt in their lives, and you will have built yourself an addict on the spot.”

Hogan shared some of the good news coming from his office’s war on drugs in the county. Operation Wildfire – run through the District Attorney’s Office – has been able to nab several drug dealers from Philadelphia who transport drugs to Chester County. The county has also developed a task force with Delaware County that addresses drug treatment; removing the drugs from the street; and education.

The establishment of Narcotics Overdose Prevention & Education [N.O.P.E.] allows parents who have lost family members to drugs to speak to middle- and high-scoolers in Chester County.

Hogan said that Narcan, carried by police agencies throughout the county, have saved 187 people from drug overdoses.

In addition, Hogan said that prescription drug boxes set up in many municipalities have gone from collecting 1,300 pounds of prescription drugs to more than 10,000 pounds collected in 2017.

“People always tell me, ‘You can’t win a war on drugs,’ and I tell them that in 1920, the FBI declared war on bank robbers,” Hogan said. “There are more bank robbers today than there were in the 1920s, but you have to fight that war. You have to fight that battle, in order to keep your country safe. You are a gardener. You are pulling the weeds to make sure that the weeds don’t take over the rest of your garden. You need to fight it every day, or it will take over.”

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

The drummer’s left foot

On the evening of May 3, a Chester County Press writer was not working. Instead, he purposely left his recorder and reporter’s notebook at home, in order to attend a concert at the Kennett Flash that featured a performance by percussionist Kofi Baker, the son of legendary drummer Ginger Baker, who was breezing through Kennett Square with his two band mates on its current tour.

The writer sat just to the right of the stage, near enough to Baker and his other musicians that he could clearly watch the inside of the bassist’s thumb pound his instrument through a version of “In the White Room,” and see the phrasing of the guitarist as he sang “In the Presence of the Lord.”

It was very welcome territory to the writer; he had spent his college years – and, subsequently, his 30s and 40s – attending concerts in impersonal hockey arenas and ballparks, whose acoustics reverberated with all of the intimacy of an echo chamber or an insane asylum of sound. The pain didn’t end there; often, he was parked in seats as far away as one-tenth of a mile from the stage, or blinded by overzealous fans who interrupted his view and, not lost on the writer, the cost of these seats rose at the same rate as the national debt.

In contrast, the writer sat ten feet away from Baker’s drum solo.

Matched against these coliseums of commerce, the Kennett Flash, tucked down an alley off of State Street, is among the greatest gifts ever given to the legions of locals who feel that the best way to enjoy music is to see it live. Its definition begins with the space it offers and ends with the performers who choose to play there. It is not a concert hall, but a listening room that showcases national, regional, and local music of nearly every genre, as well as comedy and childrens’ events. On a Tuesday, listeners may get to see a new recording artist in his or her “See me now” phase, and on a Wednesday, return to the venue and soak up the work of a musical veteran right before them.

Somewhere behind the stage lay hidden the truest definition of the Kennett Flash, one that will never be seen by the audiences who attend shows there. It is a venue in name only; in truth, the Kennett Flash is a nonprofit performing arts organization – General Manager Andrew Miller is its only paid employee – and it relies only on ticket sales and donations for its operating budget.

In truth, it is the public, not a corporate underwriter, who keeps the Kennett Flash alive, and even the smallest of donations help cover programming and operating costs.

The writer had interviewed Baker by phone last summer, in advance of Baker’s first appearance in Kennett Square, a concert under the stars at Anson B. Nixon Park that drew more than 250. During his conversation, the writer made reference to what Baker’s father Ginger said about the importance of the left foot in drumming. It controls the high hat, he said, which in turn serves as the drumbeat compass for the way a band moves the music forward.

The lessons of the father were now being followed by the son. During his drum solo, Baker pounded his sticks through an exercise of pure exhilaration. His hands flew everywhere, and everywhere they went, his body followed for emphasis. From just to the right of the stage, the writer sat transfixed at Baker’s machinations, and noticed in Baker’s fury that only one aspect of this display remained consistent: the left foot of the drummer. It hit the high hat perfectly, on cue. Eventually, the other members of the band fell in line, with the architecture of pure symmetry.

Where else would I get to see something like this in Chester County, from where I now sit? The writer thought. In truth? Nowhere else.

To make your donation, ensuring 100 percent of your donation goes to programming and operating costs, please make your check out to The Kennett Flash, Inc. and mail to The Kennett Flash, PO Box 375, Kennett Square, PA 19348, or visit www. kennettflash.org for complete information on how to make your contribution online.

Publisher - Randall S. Lieberman

A Mother’s message of grief, hope and action

By permission from the author, the following are excerpts from an address delivered by West Grove resident Jacki Smiro at the 4th Annual Inspirational Breakfast, sponsored by the Southern Chester County Chamber of Commerce, held at the Mendenhall Inn on May 17.

Normally when I speak, I introduce myself as RJ’s mom. My son RJ was funny, gifted and talented. From the time he was a little boy all he ever wanted was to be a Marine. I remember people used to ask me if I was afraid. I said that if anything ever happened to RJ at least I would know that he was happy because that’s what he always wanted to do.

We watched the history and learning channels and any movie that involved WWII and Vietnam. I learned more about guns, planes and helicopters than most mothers have that’s for sure. In fact, when RJ was a teenager he was in the Young Marines. He went to Quantico and Paris Island in the summer for drill. He was starting to live his dream. In June 2008, RJ went to spend the night at a friend’s house and was going to start a job the next day. RJ’s friends brought him home in the middle of the night and I found him the next day when I got up for work. The boys were drinking that night and took something that wasn’t prescribed to them.

All the kids woke up the next day but RJ never did. June 30, 2008: RJ was 17 and at the time of his death

it was treated like a freak accident. It was just me and my kid. Little did we know that was only the beginning of the opioid epidemic. My daughter says that we were lucky because we didn’t have to go through the years of struggle and pain that most families do. Today we try to see the blessings that we do have because it’s the only way we know how to survive.

At RJ’s funeral, the Young Marines showed up and asked permission to stand as Honor Guard at his service. They never leave a brother behind and that’s the kind of boy my son was. I’d like to thank these soldiers here today. Thank you for your service. My son never started his senior year of high school, or went off to college or became that Marine, but knowing that he had the opportunity to go to Quantico means more than you could ever know. He would have been so honored knowing that his brothers came and stood by his side at his service. I know I was. No one says they want to grow up and be an addict or dead before they turn 25, but that’s what is happening. RJ went to Avon Grove High School, and his class alone has lost seven to overdose. His friend is buried in the plot next to him. They went to daycare together. The rest of the schools and classes are catching up.

We are losing an entire generation. These were once future productive members of society who are leaving behind not only parents, friends and siblings, but now

children. They can’t contribute to the economy, social security or workforce if they are in jail, unemployable or dead. Grandparents are raising grandchildren. When I was in high school people smoked pot and drank; they didn’t die and they are still here today. If I would have known – if RJ would have known – he’d still be here, just like so many others. My heart broke each time I heard of more and more of these young men and woman becoming addicted and dying. It was obvious that no one was talking to the kids, someone had to, yet no one was.

In 2014, with the help of the District Attorney’s office, we were able to start a program of N.O.P.E. in 11 of the 12 school districts, reaching over 30,000 students. Along the way, I met a few great people here today that are doing wonderful things because they are clean and sober. We’ve testified before the Republican House Committee on the issues around the opioid epidemic. We have an entire system that sets them up for failure. After we left we realized that there are so many problems in so many areas it’s going to take a long time for things to change. How many more people will die before that happens? In 2016 alone, we have lost more people to overdose than the Vietnam, Iraq and Afghanistan wars combined. We could be doing so much more to support people and recovery, so we formed a non-profit called Live4RJ, because that’s what I do today.

We help those struggling from addiction with community-based solutions. We also have a grief support group for parents who have lost a child to addiction, called “If Love Were Enough,” facilitated by Annalie Korengel at Unionville Presbyterian Church. Actually, there are three grief groups specifically for overdose in Chester County because it’s no longer just me and my son anymore. The stigma of addiction and the fear of blame it is difficult for families and those struggling to ask for help. It needs to stop. In March, we opened a clubhouse for people in recovery in Parkesburg and have plans on another location in West Grove. My husband says I’m a dreamer. I told him I’m a visionary. I always try to see the best in everything. We can’t save the world but if we can help just one person than it’s worth it. Life is too short and since my son’s death my priorities have changed. I have seen and continue to see that there are miracles around us every day.

Smiro is the founder of live4RJ, a local organization that serves as an advocate for families who are struggling with addiction. Its mission is to prevent drug abuse, educate and create change through communitybased solutions meant to inspire, empower and assist all adolescents, young adults and veterans suffering from addiction live to their potential, leading a full healthy life. To learn more, visit www.live4rj.com.

Townships demand immediate leadership from state to address volunteer firefighter crisis

By Shirl Barnhart Immediate past president, Pa. State Association of Township Supervisors and member, SR 6 Commission

The volunteer fire company is a long and cherished tradition in our commonwealth, dating back to 1736 when Ben Franklin founded the nation’s first all-volunteer force to fight blazes in Philadelphia.

For nearly three centuries, communities have relied on volunteer fire companies to protect property and save lives. Today, this volunteer model is in jeopardy. Across the state, local fire companies are struggling. Volunteers are dwindling. Costs are soaring. Training requirements have intensified. With donations and volunteers harder to come by, the future of the local fire company, long intertwined in the fabric of a community, looks grim. Without real, viable solutions to address this volunteer shortage, many local stations may be forced to close their doors. Pennsylvania is on the verge of a public safety crisis, and it’s time for our leaders in Harrisburg to stop talking about it and do something.

Recently, township officials from across the state passed a resolution at the 96th Annual Educational Conference of the Pennsylvania State Association of Township Supervisors demanding

that Gov. Tom Wolf call a special legislative session immediately to address the volunteer crisis facing local fire and emergency management services. Rep. Steve Barrar, chair of the state Veterans Affairs and Emergency Preparedness Committee, has embraced this call for a special session.

While we applaud recent initiatives to tackle the crisis, including the bipartisan Senate Resolution 6 Commission, which has been tasked with studying issues affecting first responders, it is not enough. Consider that the deadline for the commission’s report has been extended until November 30, which coincides with the end of the legislative session, and we can quickly see that such efforts are too little, too late. Instead, we implore the legislature to act now, before General Election Day, and give this crisis the attention it deserves.

We’ve “talked the talk” for long enough; it’s time to “walk the walk.”

Consider these sobering facts:

• Volunteers at fire companies across Pennsylvania have dropped from 300,000 strong in the 1960s and ’70s to below 50,000 today.

• At least 75 percent of fire companies are struggling with manpower at a time when the state’s population is aging. The average age of a firefighter is 50-something, and people are busier today than they

were decades ago.

• Communities would have to raise taxes almost $10 billion a year to switch to a paid model for fire service, according to the office of the state fire commissioner. Who can afford that kind of property tax increase in their community?

Earlier this year, the governor declared the opioid abuse problem in Pennsylvania an emergency disaster. Programs and funding have been dedicated to ending this deadly epidemic. As local officials who are witnessing the lethal consequences of opioid addiction in our communities, the members of PSATS support this commitment.

However, we also believe we have been dealing with the volunteer fire and EMS crisis for far longer. It’s time that our hard-working fire companies and volunteers receive the same attention and recognition from Harrisburg.

Our call for action is not to distract from the current opioid crisis. In fact, it is related. First responders are on the front lines of the opioid battle every day. If we expect emergency personnel to respond to overdose calls, we can’t afford to lose any more foot soldiers in this war.

We ask the state legislature to immediately address this crisis by enacting real and feasible solutions, such as allowing variable training standards for rural, suburban, and urban areas; granting a tax incentive for employers who permit employees to respond to calls while at work; and providing a fix for out-ofcontrol insurance rates at the State Workers Insurance Fund (SWIF).

If we don’t find real remedies soon, the day is not far away when someone calls 911 for help, and no fire company responds. We must make sure that never happens. Our volunteer fire companies are simply too important to lose. The whistle is blowing. The alarm is ringing. We must answer the call, work together, and find a resolution to this crisis before “Pennsylvania burning” becomes a reality.

About the author: Shirl Barnhart is the immediate past president of the Pennsylvania State Association of Township Supervisors, an organization that advocates for the commonwealth’s 1,454 townships of the second class, home to 5.4 million Pennsylvanians. Barnhart is a township supervisor in Morgan Township, Greene County, and has been a volunteer firefighter for more than 40 years.

Whether it’s helping at the scene of an overdose or putting out a house fire, volunteer fire and emergency responders keep our communities safe. We must do everything in our power to keep this volunteer model alive, but we need help from our leaders in Harrisburg.

Parade...

Continued from Page 1A

A. Ferko Mummers String Band, the Chester County Emerald Society Bagpipe Band, the Lukens Band Marching Band, fire trucks from local companies, high school marching bands, drumlines, barbershop quartets, a bluegrass band and gospel singers, among them.

Spectators who line up on the streets will also see units featuring the scouts, Little League players, service clubs in the community, and more.

Taylor said that he is excited about some of the new additions to the parade this year. They include a bombsniffing dog who served the U.S. by protecting our troops in Afghanistan, a Leif Erikson viking ship that will be pulled on a trailer, and the Oscar Mayer Weinermobile that is coming down from Connecticut for the parade.

The eight-foot-tall Uncle Sam is a familiar part of the Kennett Memorial Day Parade in recent years, and a new addition this year is the equally tall robot that will no doubt wow spectators.

The parade will kick off at 10 a.m. at Kennett High School (100 E. South St.), and then the parade route will follow South Union Street, Cypress Street, South Broad Street, State Street and North Union Street. It will conclude with a memorial service conducted by the Kennett Square American Legion and VFW Post at Union Hill Cemetery (424 N. Union St.).

Taylor said that it’s always an honor to be able to recognize the service of military

veterans, including the grand marshals.

Brown enlisted in the Army in January of 1943 and completed basic training in Florida. He then received basic weapon usage and wire chief training in Missouri and went on to serve in the Signal Service Battalion 3188th in New Jersey. Brown was promoted to staff sergeant in communications and was shipped to the English Channel. He ship was sunk at one point, but men were rescued by another ship. Brown was then shipped to France where he took over the French telephone system. He was honorably discharged in April 1946 and settled in Kennett Square. Breeden served as a Tech Sergeant in the Air Force. He enlisted in the U.S. Navy in October of 1947 and completed boot camp at the Great Lakes Naval Training Center in Illinois, and completed instruction on Aviation Metalsmith in Tennessee before being assigned to VF-61 Aircraft Fighter Squadron flying F8F Grumman “Bear Cats” at Oceana Naval Air Station in Virginia Beach, Va. He Served on various aircraft carriers. After being discharged in May of 1950, Breeden joined the Naval Reserves. He was called to active duty in June 1950 and sent to Pearl Harbor and then to Korea for nine months. In his last six months in the Navy, he was assigned to Alameda and served as a master of arms in the Chief Petty Officers quarters. Breeden next enlisted in U.S. Air Force in August 1953. He completed basic

Local

training in Illinois and was assigned to Keesler AFB in Missouri for electronics fundamentals school. Next, he was assigned to Chanute Air Force Base as an instrument trainer repairman. He was next assigned to Yokota Air Force Base in Japan, where he completed four years plus one extension. He retired from the Air Force on Dec. 1, 1969, and his total service between the Navy and Air Force is 21 years, 11 months, and 18 days.

Taylor, who is in his 14th year serving as the chairman of the parade committee, said that Kennett Square’s event dates back to World War II when the local American Legion started it. By 2005, the parade had gotten smaller for a variety of reasons. Taylor was enlisted to help revive the parade that year, as Kennett Square marked its sesquicentennial.

“Since then, it has been continually been growing,” Taylor said, explaining that the committee spends more than six months planning for the event. The parade attracts around 15,000 spectators.

Taylor’s family business, Taylor Oil & Propane, which has been in Kennett Square for 67 years, is very involved with the planning and staging of the Memorial Day Parade. The Taylor family and company members will build six floats in the days leading up to the parade so that some of the bands can be transported along the parade route. Numerous family members and employees help out during the day of the parade, too.

Sponsors of the parade include Taylor Oil & Propane, Waters Retail Group, The Mushroom Festival, Fenstermacher & Company, CAC Scholarship/ Mushroom Farms, DiMatteo Financial Group, Genesis HealthCare, Kennett Square VFW Post #5467, Burton’s Barber Shop, Grieco Family Funeral Home, Kennett Run Charities, Kennett Square KAU Little League, Inc., Longwood Rotary, Matt Fetick/Keller Williams Realty, Union

Street Financial, WSFS, law offices of David B. Myers, Madison Settlement Services, American Legion Post, and Historic Kennett Square.

For more information about the parade, contact Bill Taylor at 610-444-3810 or at taylordeskbt@ aol. com. More information is also available at www. facebook. com/KennettSquare MemorialDayParade or visit historic kennettsquare. com.

Oxford Area High School to induct Distinguished Alumni class

On Friday, May 25, Oxford Area High School will hold its 12th annual Distinguished Alumni induction ceremony.

The Distinguished Alumni program was established in 2006 to ensure that the lives and achievements of Oxford’s most accomplished graduates will be forever known among fellow graduates, current and future high school students, and the Oxford community.

Inductees will attend a luncheon in their honor followed by a ceremony attended by the high school student body. A photo of the honorees will be displayed in the high school’s rotunda.

The following Oxford graduates will be inducted as the Distinguished Alumni Class of 2018:

James D. Pepple, Class of 1967

Along with his wife Sandy, Pepple is the owner and developer of Wyncote Golf Club and The Homes at Wyncote. He is the general manager of all golf and restaurant operations, and since 1974 is also owner and operator of Ox-View Farms.

After graduating from Oxford, Mr. Pepple attended Penn State, where he earned a B.S. in biochemistry, and the University of Delaware, where he earned his master’s in biochemistry.

Pepple has a long history of giving back to the Oxford community. He has coached Little League Baseball, youth basketball and youth soccer, including a stint as coach of the high school’s junior varsity soccer team.

Pepple served on the Lower Oxford Township Planning Commission and is a past-

president of the Oxford Area Chamber of Commerce, with Wyncote hosting the Chamber’s annual charity golf tournament. Wyncote also hosts fundraising tournaments for the Lighthouse Youth Center and Excelon, and is the home course for the high school’s golf team as well as the First Tee Program.

Pepple’s business success and contributions to the community have been recognized with the Paradigm Award from the Chester County Economic Development Council and the PEPPER Award for volunteer service from the Oxford Area Education Association. Susan Melrath, Class of 1977

With an artistic career spanning 30 years, Ms. Melrath’s commercial clients include IBM, The Miami Herald and Simon & Schuster. Working from her Oxford studio, her fine art hangs in homes, hospitals, hotels, and galleries throughout the United States.

“I was lucky to learn a little about painting, drawing, pottery, and even silver casting in Oxford’s art program,” said Ms. Melrath.

After graduation, Ms. Melrath enrolled in the University of Dijon to study French. “I was too homesick to stay more than a year, but I did backpack around Europe for a month before coming home,” she said. “I still carry these experiences with me today. I walked on the opposite shores of the Atlantic, ate French fries in Brussels, and oranges the size of cantaloupe in Crete, shared a ferry with a band of gypsies, and saw the most

magical ruins and beautiful art.”

Melrath spent four years at a commercial art school in Philadelphia, with summers spent waiting tables in Ocean City, Maryland. After a brief stint in the aerospace industry drawing exploded views of rocket motors, she spent several years as a freelance illustrator and made artwork for greeting card companies, book publishers, newspapers, magazines and ad agencies.

After leaving that work to raise her son, Ms. Melrath’s desire to paint deepened. She began to paint whenever she could, and helped establish an art program at her son’s elementary school, with the students created a mural and two bus shelters for the community.

With her son now in college, Melrath has been painting solidly for the past decade. She has been honored with grants and a residency, and with having her work included in public and private collections.

Heather E. Dillaway, Ph.D., Class of 1991

After graduating from Oxford, Dr. Dillaway attended Cornell University, earning a Bachelor of Arts in history and sociology in 1995. She then earned a Masters of Arts in sociology at the University of Delaware in 1997, and a Ph.D. in sociology at Michigan State University in 2002.

Dr. Dillaway joined the faculty in the Department of Sociology at Wayne State University in the fall of 2002. She is now a social science researcher, teacher and academic administrator.

Most of Dr. Dillaway’s research focuses on women’s experiences of menopause and midlife and the reproductive health experiences of women with physical disabilities (in particular, spinal cord injuries), with over 50 research publications on these topics. She typically teaches courses on race and gender inequalities, women and health, health disparities, families, qualitative methods, and research methods in the Sociology Department.

Recently Dr. Dillaway has overseen a two-year launch of a new  Bachelor’s of Science in Public Health program  at Wayne State. She has

also taught in the program, including courses on the social and behavioral aspects of health and the public health practicum and capstone courses.

Additionally, since coming to Wayne State, Dr. Dillaway has mentored and graduated over 40 master’s and Ph.D. students in sociology. Her former graduate students hold jobs across the country in teaching, research and nonprofit arenas.

Dr. Dillaway is currently an Associate Dean of Academic Programs in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.

In this Associate Dean role, she oversees curriculum

innovation and development, graduate programs, and other academic initiatives.

Dr. Dillaway previously served as an Associate Dean in the Graduate School, Acting Director of the Institute of Gerontology, and Chair of the Department of Sociology at Wayne State. In this administrative work, she enjoys working to ensure academic success for both students and faculty and to support academic departments working towards that same goal.

Dr. Dillaway and her husband, Jason, have two children and live in Ann Arbor, Mich.

New memoir brings color to Communist East Germany

Oxford woman writes about her life on the other side of the Berlin Wall

By John Chambless Staff Writer

As a girl on the Communist side of the Berlin Wall, Antje Arnold grew up happily, in a loving family, but knew very little about the world of bright lights and freedom that existed just beyond the barbed wire.

Arnold, who lives in Oxford with her husband and teen son and daughter, has written the first installment of her life story, The Girl Behind the Wall, which documents her memories of a childhood under Communist rule, and the world-altering day in 1989 that the Berlin Wall came down.

During an interview last week at the Oxford Library, Arnold cheerfully shared details of her childhood just outside Berlin. It was an existence, she said, that was not the grim prison that many people imagine.

“As a child, I loved reading and going to the library,” she said, smiling. “My mom would read to me every night when I was growing up, like the Grimm’s Fairy Tales. I couldn’t wait to finally read on my own. My mom told me that I said, ‘When I’m older, I’m going to write a book one day.’ When I went to first grade and learned to read, oh my gosh, it was a whole new

world. I became best friends with the librarian in town, and I think I read every single book they had.”

Arnold’s father was a police officer who had met his future wife when they were in an orphanage. They had both grown up under Communist rule and knew nothing else. They passed that acceptance on to Antje, who was born in 1978, as well as her brother.

“We were not allowed to travel. Radio was our go-to,” Arnold said. “The only time we turned on the TV was in the evening for the news. I’m sure it was censored. There were kids’ TV shows that were about learning. We had all kinds of movies. It’s not like we were deprived on that type of entertainment.

“And let’s just say you can’t cut off satellites,” she continued. “So if you were in the perfect spot, you could get TV channels and radio stations from

Western Germany. But you didn’t tell anybody if you were watching or listening. It was always in the back of your mind that Big Brother is watching. You couldn’t really trust anybody. People were selfcensoring themselves. Your best friend could be a spy. You just never knew. If you had a certain opinion about the government, or you felt deprived of something, you could not say that, because you didn’t know who was listening.”

The Girl Behind the Wall is written from Arnold’s memories, fleshed out with details from research and from talking with her mother, who filled in some of the gaps. “I have a memory of being in a restaurant on top of a TV tower at the age of 5,” she said. “It’s a famous tourist spot that revolves. But I don’t remember looking across the wall to the other side. I asked my mom, ‘Was that side blocked off?’ She said, ‘No, it was all there.’ But it was never discussed. My parents never made a big deal about there being two sides of the wall.”

Her family, she said, lived far enough away from the wall that it was not a daily reminder of what they might be missing.

Fine antiques on the Brandywine this weekend

You can shop for the finest antiques this weekend from 26 of the nation’s top dealers – all in one place.

The Brandywine River Museum of Art’s 47th Antiques Show, held from May 26 to 28, will feature antiques displayed throughout the museum and in the courtyard.

For a first look at the dealer booths, the Preview Party will be held on May 25, from 6 to 9 p.m. Complete with live music, an open bar and hors d’oeuvres – including

smoked salmon, lollipop lamb chops, carving stations and a full-scale sushi bar – the preview is a celebration of art, antiques and tradition. Tickets are $125 per member and $150 per non-member and also include valet parking. Tickets can be purchased online at www. brandywine.org/events or by calling 610-388-8318. The show continues Saturday through Monday from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day. Admission is $20 and includes entry to the museum and its

galleries. Proceeds from the show benefit the Museum Volunteers’ Purchase Fund, and art and education programming. Events throughout the weekend include the “Antiques Show Breakfast and Lecture” on Saturday, and “A Passion for Collecting: Dealer Talks” on Sunday and Monday.

Antiques Show

Breakfast and Lecture

Saturday, May 26, 9 to 10:30 a.m.

$30 per person (includes show admission)

Come to the Millstone Café overlooking the scenic Brandywine River for a continental breakfast and lecture by James H. Duff, director emeritus of the Brandywine Conservancy & Museum of Art, on “Exploring the Roots of this Treasured Event, The Antiques Show at Brandywine.” Guided tours of the exhibition, “The Way Back: The Paintings of George A. Weymouth” will follow the lecture. The presentation will begin at 9:30 a.m. following a continental

breakfast at 9 a.m.

A Passion for Collecting: Dealer Talks

Sunday, May 27 and Monday, May 28

Free with show admission

Each day features four different talks by dealers in the show. These talks will be held in select dealer booths at 10:30 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 12:30 p.m. and 1:30 p.m., with topics ranging from Staffordshire pottery, American furniture, oriental rugs, to Chinese

export porcelain and more. Register in advance by calling 610-388-8318, or meet in the museum’s first floor lobby 15 minutes prior to each lecture. Guided tours of the Andrew Wyeth Studio, N. C. Wyeth House & Studio, and the Kuerner Farm are available daily (for an additional fee) through Nov. 18. Advance reservations are recommended. For more information, call 610388-2700 or visit www. brandywinemuseum.org.

THOMAS M. SINGLETON

Thomas (Tom) Michael Singleton, 45, of Pittsburgh, passed away on May 13 at his residence.

He was the son of Mike and Lucy Singleton of Parkesburg. Tom was a self-employed carpenter who enjoyed his time with family and friends.

In addition to his parents, he is survived by his son, U.S. Army Staff Sargent Jason Brenneman and his wife Anna, their two children Zayne and Leila (Tom’s grandchildren); his daughter Elise Willits; and his brother Michael Christopher Singleton; Michael’s wife Kimberly Ann; and their children Christopher, Michael and Casey.

His service and burial will be held privately. In lieu of flowers, a contribution may be made to PA Adult & Teen Challenge, c/o Finance Department, P. O. Box 98, Rehrersburg, PA. 19550. To view his online tribute and to share a memory with his family, visit www.griecocares.com.

JANICE MATCHNER HERR

Janice Matchner Herr, 68, of Apopka, Fla., passed away on May 3.

She was born in 1950 in Coatesville. Originally from Oxford, she was in the graduating class of 1968 from Oxford Area High School. During the time she lived in Oxford, she was in employed at the Oxford Gas Company and Annan Run. Once she moved to Apopka, she started working with Quest Incorporated.

She was preceded in death by her mother, Grace Matchner; and brother, William Machner. She is survived by her father, Frank W. Matchner, Jr.; daughter, Amy Beth Herr; siblings Ruth Ann Vincent, Martha Livingston and Frank W. Matchner III; six nieces and nephews; and many loved ones and friends.

CARL J. MOREFIELD

Carl J. Morefield, 87, of Broomall, formerly of West Grove, passed away on May 13 at the Broomall Presbyterian Home. He was the husband of Theresa Tait Morefield, who passed away in February 2018, and with whom he shared 59 years of marriage. Born in Laurel Bloomery, Tenn., he was the son of the late Ferd Morefield and the late Margaret Gentry Morefield. Carl was a maintenance worker at South Mill Mushrooms, retiring in the late 1980s after 15 years of service. He enjoyed deer hunting, fishing, and spending time with his family and friends.

Carl is survived by one son, Carl E. Morefield and his wife Leona of Colorado Springs, Colo.; one daughter, Margie Brackin of West Grove; one brother, Russell Morefield of Laurel Bloomery, Tenn.; three sisters, Berti Morefield of Laurel Bloomery, Tenn., Shirley Widner of Laurel Bloomery, Tenn., and Kathryn Wheatly of Salisbury, Md.; and nine grandchildren. He was predeceased by one daughter, Jodi Morefield; one grandson, Raymond Brackin; and three sisters.

His graveside service was held May 18 at the Oxford Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, a contribution may be made to Broomall Presbyterian Home, 2002 Joshua Road, Lafayette Hills, PA 19444, attn.: Page Zettlemoyer. To view an online tribute and to share a memory with his family, visit www. griecocares.com.

EDNA MAE HENDRICKSON

Edna Mae Hendrickson, 70, of Kirkwood, passed away on May 11.

Born in 1947 in West Chester, she was the daughter of the late Ralph H. Reber and Ina Ruth Hodson. Edna was retired from CDS Analytical, where she worked in the shipping and receiving department. She enjoyed cvrocheting, especially making baby blankets for the family’s newborns and doing assorted crafts, but most of all she loved spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren and granddogs.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Joseph M. Hendrickson (Nick); a daughter and a son, Pamela L. (Roger) Henley of Nottingham, and Mark J. (Melissa) Hendrickson of Nottingham; three grandchildren; two granddogs, Muffin and Ruby; and three brothers, Robert Reber of Kembelsville, Ralph (Dotty) Reber of Cabool, Mo., and Harold (Patty) Reber of Oxford; and nieces and nephews.

A celebration of life service and picnic will be held May 24 at 4 p.m. at Nottingham Park (150 Park Rd., Nottingham), in Pavilion 7 with the Rev. Kurt W. Schenk officiating. All are welcome.

ELEANORE D. CAVENAUGH

Eleanore died at her residence in Chadds Ford on May 14, surrounded by her loving family.

She is survived by her husband of 60 years, David (Gary); her children Laureen Smith (Goeff), Barbara McDowell, and Ken Cavanaugh (Maria), all of West Chester; and six grandchildren. She loved children and volunteered at local schools for many years.

A memorial mass was held May 18. Memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, 399 Market St., Suite 102, Philadelphia, PA 19106.

JENNIE R. GRAYBEAL

Jennie R. Graybeal, 92, of Oxford passed away on May 11 at SECU Hospice Care Center in Yadkinville, N.C. She was the wife of the late Charles W. Graybeal. Born in Ashe County, N.C., she was the daughter of the late John B. and Rosa Joines Shepherd. Jennie was a member of the Avon Grove Church of the Nazarene. She enjoyed crocheting, quilting, crafts, long walks, reading, jigsaw puzzles with friends, and especially spending time with her grandchildren. She is survived by three sons, Robert Graybeal (Charlotte) of Myrtle Beach, S.C., John Graybeal of West Grove, and Mark Graybeal (Betsy) of Middletown, Del.; one daughter, BJ Hunter (Ernie) of Mocksville, N.C.; a daughter-in-law, Deb Marshall (Leigh) of Texas; eight grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; six great-great-grandchildren; and one brother, Leroy Shepherd (Nell) of Darlington, Md. She was preceded in death by a son, Roger Graybeal; and three sisters, Lilly Shepherd, Kathleen Crouse and Shirley Johnson. A funeral was held May 18. Interment was in Kemblesville Methodist Cemetery. Charitable donations may be made to the Nazarene Missionary Ministry, Avon Grove Church of the Nazarene, 240 State Road, West Grove, PA 19290. Online condolences may be made at www.elcollinsfuneralhome.com.

CATHERINE L. LUCAS

Catherine L. Lucas, 60, of Kennett Square, passed away on May 14 at her home, surrounded by loved ones.

She was the daughter of the late Garfield and Edna Davis, widow of Billy Ray Lucas, mother of the late William H. Lucas, and sister of the late James G. Davis.

She is survived by her loving partner, Raul Ocasio-Torres; four daughters, Rebecca Lucas, Patricia Basham, Rosalie Pedroza-Ocasio, and Hepzi Ocasio; one son, Michael Lucas; 16 grandchildren; and 22 great-grandchildren; three brothers, William R. Davis, Stephen R. Davis, and Kenneth M. Davis; three sisters, Shirley J. Maxwell, Stella R. Kline, and Martha F. Lloyd; and many other nieces, nephews and loved ones.

A memorial service will be held June 3 at 2 p.m. at 431 Cedar Spring Rd., Kennett Square. If it rains, the service and gathering will be held at Calvary Baptist Church (218 Ellicott Rd., Avondale). To view her online tribute and to share a memory with her family, visit www.griecocares.com.

May 26

Buffet breakfast Oxford United Methodist Church (18 Addison St., Oxford) hosts its monthly buffet breakfast for the community on May 26 from 7 to 10 a.m.

The menu includes buttermilk pancakes, French toast, scrambled eggs, fruit, sausage and bacon, roasted potatoes, sausage gravy and more. Tickets at the door are $7 for adults, $3 for ages 3 to 10. Call 610-932-9698 for more information.

June 9

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

Pancake breakfast On June 9, West Grove United Methodist Church (300 N. Guernsey Rd., West Grove) will host a pancake breakfast from 7 to 10 a.m. Tickets are $6 in advance (children 3 and younger free) and include an all-youcan-eat breakfast with pancakes, sausage, fruit cup, juice, coffee, and tea. Tickets can be purchased by calling 610-869-9334, and will be available at the door.

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

“I have this surreal memory of when my mom had to have surgery, and she had to go a specialist in Berlin in this clinic building,” Arnold said. “She had to sign a waiver saying, ‘I am not going to watch TV from the other side. I am not going to listen to any radio.’ West Germany was basically across the street. I remember visiting her with my dad, and we walked down this hallway that was all windows. I walked up to this wall of windows and suddenly reality hit me. There it was – the wall. All these guards walking around with rifles, the watchtowers. I could see the other side, and I thought, ‘Wow. There’s a lot of cars over there, and a lot of billboards.’ We didn’t have advertisements. My dad was very matter-of-fact, ‘Oh, that’s just what it is.’ But that image stuck with me.”

When she was 11 years old, Antje and her brother were sent off to school as usual on Nov. 9. “We went to school on Saturdays. When we got there, nobody was there,” she said. “There were no bicycles. We went inside and went to our classrooms. There was nobody there. I walked back out in the hallway and there were a couple of students here and there. We were all looking at each other, like, ‘What’s going on?’

“We saw a couple of teachers who said, ‘Go home.’ On the way out of the school, somebody from the office told us, ‘The wall came down.’ So my brother and I went home and my mother said, ‘What are you guys doing here?’ She was not aware of it either.”

While news of the wall coming down was a global

sensation in the days leading up to the event, Arnold said it must have been blacked out of Communist news. “It was like a culture shock in your own country,” she said. “It was all craziness. We didn’t go to the other side until maybe a month or so later. It was very overwhelming. We could walk across. I couldn’t even take it all in. There was too much advertisement, too much going on. I remember going to the grocery store and I was like, ‘You mean yogurt comes in cups, with fruit already mixed in, and there are pictures on it? What? How is this possible?’

“It was horrible, actually,” she added. “I think we spent five to 10 minutes in there. We didn’t buy a single thing. We came down the escalator to the bottom of the building and we just left. It was like the Western world had thrown up on us.”

In the seventh grade, all previous school curriculum was swept away, “as if it didn’t exist,” Arnold said. She had to learn English in one year to catch up to students from the western part of the country. East German currency could be traded in before a deadline. After that, all of it became worthless.

Having glimpsed freedom,

Arnold said, she convinced her parents to let her travel, alone, to California for four weeks at the age of 15. “It’s very scary, I know. My son just turned 16, and I told him, ‘You are not going anywhere,’” she said, laughing. She made it to California and back just fine, and returned the next year. She came to the United States long-term as an au pair, “experiencing all these American holidays,” she said. She met her future husband in America and ended up in Oxford, where he lived.

While her family remains in Europe, during family gettogethers, the stories of how the world was, pre- and postBerlin Wall, inevitably come up. “I wanted something to give my kids an idea of what it was like for me as a child,” Arnold said. “I wanted them to get the information from me. So I started writing notes. People said, ‘You should write a book.’”

Having previously only written for school, Arnold started setting her memories down, with assistance from her family members and some online research. The book took about two years to write and edit while Arnold was busy raising her children, Joshua and Kylee, and working as a medical assistant. Her husband, Gary, is a teacher at Lincoln University.

The Girl Behind the Wall was published in January. “It was very surreal,” Arnold said of holding the proof of the book in her hands for the first time. “I thought, ‘Wow. This is really cool.’”

The book, which ends with the fall of the Berlin Wall, is the first part of a planned trilogy. The next book will center on how life changed for East Germans afterward. “I think a lot of times, that’s not

really spoken about,” Arnold said of the transition of an entire nation. “Everything –food products, appliances, even your TV shows and radio shows – all wiped out.”

She would like to translate the book into German, because her friends and family in Germany have read The Girl Behind the Wall and enjoyed it. “They’ve said it was nice for them to reminisce about that time,” she said. “It’s like their own childhoods.”

Arnold has done a few book signing events locally. “People come up and say, ‘I was there a week after the wall came down. There was so much energy.’ Some people I’ve talked to had relatives in the Czech Republic, or from Russia or Ukraine,” she said. “They went through a similar process. People are interested in what it was like, because there is this sort of black-and-white vision. With this book, I want to bring in the color. Sure, we had some limitations. We were not allowed to go wherever we wanted. But we still had a good time. We partied and we had holidays.”

The sudden onslaught of pop culture and history that had been blanked out by Communist rule was a lot to catch up on, Arnold said. Her knowledge of pop music, for instance, is skewed by when she first it all. “My husband will hear a song on the radio and say, ‘I remember when this came out,’ but I’ll just say, ‘Everything kind of comes from 1989 to me,’” Arnold said, laughing.

The Girl Behind the Wall is available on Amazon.com.

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

New musical ‘Soul Harmony’ coming to West Chester stage

“Soul Harmony: The Story of Deborah Chessler, Sonny Til and The Orioles” makes its world premiere at the Uptown! Knauer Performing Arts Center in West Chester from June 20 through July 1. The show features the Orioles’ classic R&B songs and an award-winning score. This new musical theater production is set in the early days of rock and roll. When a young Jewish singer/songwriter, Deborah Chessler, partnered with a dynamic black vocal group, The Orioles, they made history. Their No. 1 hit, “It’s Too Soon to Know,” launched a career that also included “Crying in The Chapel,” “Tell Me So,” and “Hold Me, Thrill Me, Kiss Me.”

“Soul Harmony” writers Michael Allen Harrison and Alan Berg set the stage for the story in the social context of the times, that of rigid segregation in an industry that often failed to take women seriously or treat black performers equally. But Deborah and the Orioles had a sound and a stage presence that could not be suppressed. Their

rise to music nobility was remarkable, as “race” songs crossed over into mainstream markets, and young fans of diverse backgrounds responded to the new sound. The role of Deborah Chessler is played by Monica Rodrigues. Her previous roles include Lulu in “Cabaret,” and Deborah Chessler in the 2015 debut of “Soul Harmony,” for which she was nominated for Best Actress/Featured Performer. Sonny Til’s grandson, De’Sean Dooley, plays his grandfather’s role. He won a Portland Area Musical Theater Award for Outstanding Debut in “Soul Harmony’s” 2015 debut. Other cast members include “King of Oldies,” Philly DJ Ali Hackett, music historian and Classic Urban Harmony owner Charlie Horner, and Joel Katz, whose “Classic Doo Wop” show sold out at Uptown! last fall. Uptown! Knauer Performing Arts Center is at 226 N. High St., West Chester. Purchase tickets for matinee or evening performances at UptownWestChester.org, at the box office, or call 610-356-ARTS.

Penn’s Grove School names top students

Penn’s Grove School teachers nominate Students of the Month for each grade level team based on their academic achievements and participation in class and school activities.

Pictured with assistant principal Kristen Chastain, top right, Penn’s Grove Middle School eighth grade Students of the Month for March are, front from left, Riley Peery, Killeen Pearse, Kiersten Martin, Caleb Griffin and Daniela Ornelas Rosales; top from left, Luke Russell, Mark Burns, Alexandria Gallgher, James Connor and Jacob Wahl Shifflett. Charissa Guina and Claudia Monk are not pictured.

Consolidated School District is soliciting bids for replacements of certain sections of the roof at Greenwood Elementary and Kennett

School to be done this summer. Bid documents may be obtained by contacting the office of Wiss, Janney, Elstner Associates, Inc. (roofing consultant) at 609-799-7799 or may be obtained at the mandatory pre-bid meeting. The charge for a set of bid documents is $30.00 and is non-refundable. All work and materials must be in conformance to the bid documents. Checks for the bid documents are to be made payable to Kennett Consolidated School District, but should be mailed to Wiss Janney, Elstner Associates, Inc. The mandatory pre-bid meeting will be

in the

at 3:30 PM on May 23,

of Kennett

E. South

School located at

Kennett Square, PA 19348. Bidders are to meet in front of the

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decedent to make payment without delay to: Elmer F. Laffey, Executor, c/o Attorney: Winifred Moran Sebastian, Esquire, 208 E. Locust Street Address, P.O. Box 381 Oxford, PA 19363 5p-9-3t BID NOTICE

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E. South Street, PA 19348. An employee or owner of the bidding entity must attend the mandatory pre-bid meeting as one of the criteria for the bidder to be deemed responsive. Another criteria for a bidder to be deemed responsive is that they must self-perform the roofing work. It cannot be sub-contracted out. Sealed

Tracy, Board Secretary 5p-16-3t ESTATE NOTICE Estate of SALVATORE MILUZZO aka SAM MILUZZO, Deceased. Late of Tredyffrin Township, Pennsylvania. Notice is hereby given that, in the estate of the decedent set forth below, the Register of Wills has granted Letters of Administration to the persons named. All persons having claims against said estate are requested to make known the same to them or their attorney and all persons indebted to said decedent is requested to make payment without delay to the executors named below.

EXECUTOR: John Miluzzo, 265 Landons Way, Guilford, CT 06437 C/O ATTORNEY: Robert J. Reilley, Jr.,

Esquire, BELLO, REILLEY, MCGRORY & DiPIPPO, P.C., 144 East DeKalb Pike, Suite 300, King of Prussia, PA 19406 5p-16-3t INCORPORATION NOTICE

GDG Associates, Inc. has been incorporated under the provisions of the Pennsylvania Business Corporation Law of 1988. Palmarella Curry & Raab, PC, 1255 Drummers Lane, Suite 105, Wayne, PA 19087 5p-23-1t PUBLIC NOTICE

T-Mobile proposes to collocate antennas (tip heights 174’) on the water tank at North Campus Drive, West Chester, PA (20180707). Interested parties may

May 25

Blues N’ Brews

The first Blues N’ Brews festival will be held May 25 from 6:30 to 10 p.m. at the Uptown! Knauer Performing Arts Center (226 N. High St., West Chester). There will be samples from local breweries available on all three floors of the building. Locust Lane Craft Brewery of Malvern and Yards Brewing of Philadelphia will be featured, along with live music by the Rolling Thunder Blues Revue, Bickel Brothers Band and The John Grecia/Drew Nielands Duo. Nick’s Roast

Obituaries

Continued from Page 2B

Beef food truck will be on hand throughout the evening. Purchase tickets at UptownWestChester.org, at the box office, or call 610-356-ARTS.

May 26

Avon Grove Memorial Day parade

The Avon Grove Memorial Day Parade will be held May 26, beginning at 9 a.m. in the Avon Grove High School parking lot. Local veterans groups, bands and vehicles will take part.

June 8 and 9

‘Pets in the Park’ Concord Pet Foods &

RUTH A. GAGNEAUX

Ruth A. Gagneaux, 89, of Oxford, passed away on May 9 at home, under the care of her daughters and Brandywine River Valley Hospice.

She was the wife of the late Dudley Gagneaux. Born in Campbell, N.Y., in 1929, she was the daughter of the late Walter, Sr. and Hilda Mason Furman. Ruth was employed with Ames in Oxford, Eckerd’s Drug Store in Oxford and the Oxford Area School District in the cafeteria. She loved flowers, birds, word search puzzles, and especially playing with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

She is survived by three daughters, Carmen G. Baeckel (Robert), Jeanette G. Acord (the late Jimmie Acord) and Melinda S. Gagneaux, all of Oxford; four grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; two brothers, Walter Peter Furman, Jr. of Troy, Pa., and Donald Furman of Amarillo, Texas; and one sister, Alice Molene Stewart of Myrtle Beach, S.C. She was preceded in death by one brother, Howard Gale Furman, Sr.; and one sister, Kathryn Fleming.

A funeral was held May 14. In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory may be made to Brandywine River Valley Home Health and Hospice, 121 Bell Tower Ln., Oxford, PA 19363. Online condolences may be made at www.elcollinsfuneralhome.com.

MICHAEL DIFILIPPO

Michael DiFilippo, 62, of Landenberg, passed away on May 19 at Jennersville Hospital.

He was the husband of Kay Vickers DiFilippo, who passed away in 2003, and with whom he shared 30 years of marriage. Born in West Grove, he was the son of the late Mario DiFilippo and the late Winonna Brookert DiFilippo. Mike was a forklift operator at General Motors in Wilmington, retiring in 2007 after 31 years of service. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, riding his motorcycle, his dog Ellie, and being with his family and friends. He is survived by one son, Michael D. DiFilippo of Landenberg; three grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren. He was predeceased by one daughter, Bobbi Jo Brown.

A visitation will be held from 10 to 11 a.m. May 25 at the Foulk & Grieco Funeral Home (200 Rose Hill Rd., West Grove). His funeral will follow at 11 a.m. Burial will be in the Kemblesville United Methodist Church Cemetery. To view his online tribute and to share a memory with his family, visit www.griecocares.com.

JOANN M. GHIONE

JoAnn M. Ghione, 73, of Kennett Square, passed away on May 15 at her residence.

Born in Wilmington, Del., she was the daughter of the late William J. Ghione and the late Amelia Pilotti Ghione. JoAnn was a secretary at Thompson Roses before her retirement. She was a member of St. Patrick’s Church.

JoAnn is survived by one brother, Vincent Ghione of Wilmington, Del.; and one niece, Gretchen Ghione of Wilmington, Del.

Her funeral mass will be held at 11 a.m. May 24 at St. Patrick Catholic Church (212 Meredith St., Kennett Square). Burial will be in St. Patrick’s Cemetery. To view her online tribute and to share a memory with her family, visit www.griecocares.com.

Supplies is teaming up with New Castle County to bring an outdoor family pet event to Glasgow Park in Newark, Del. On June 8 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and June 9 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., families can visit with their pets at the event, which brings together more than 50 manufacturers like Purina, Blue Buffalo, Merrick and Nutro, as well as non-profit organizations such as the Brandywine Valley SPCA, Faithful Friends, Canine Partners for Life and more. DockDogs competitions will take place each day. Disc-Connected K9’s Frisbee Dogs will also have performances throughout the weekend. Food trucks, a large kid’s area with inflatables and face painting, petting zoo and pet psychic Emerald DuCouer are all part of the event. The Second Annual Pets in the Park 5K will benefit Friends of County K9, New Castle County, Del. The run takes place June 9 before the event

Through May 31

‘Everyday Moments’

Square Pear Fine Art Gallery (200 E. State St., Kennett Square) continues “Everyday Moments,” a show of paintings and sculpture by Daniel Chow, Kathleen Friedenberg, Olga Nielsen, Cheryl Elmo, Cheryl Schlenker, Al Moretti, Kimberly Hoescht and others, through May 31. Call 484-883-5429 or email squarepeargallery@gmail.com for more information.

Through May 26

‘Art of the Forge’

“Art of the Forge with a Touch of Earth,” featuring metal and clay sculptures by a variety of regional artists, continues through May 26 at the Oxford Arts Alliance (30 S. Third St., Oxford). A closing reception is scheduled May 25 from 6 to 8 p.m. Call 610-4670301 or visit www.oxfordart. org.

Through June 2

‘Wyeth to Warhol: Modern Masters’

Somerville Manning Gallery (101 Stone Block Row, Greenville, Del.) will present the exhibition “Wyeth to Warhol: Modern Masters From Past and Present” through June 2. The show juxtaposes the artworks of N.C., Andrew, and Jamie Wyeth with the artists of their respective eras, including current. Along with paintings by N.C. Wyeth will be works by Maurice Prendergast and Childe Hassam, William Merrit Chase, Edward Redfield and Hugh H. Breckenridge, Jane Peterson, Arthur Dove, Milton

opens. All pre-registered participants will receive a race T-Shirt and bag. To register, or for more information, cvisit www. petsintheparkde.com. June 23

‘50s dance party fundraiser

The Oxford Arts Alliance Annual Fundraiser will be a ‘50s Dance Party on June 23 at 6 p.m. The event will be held at Rockey Hill Farm (1140 Chrome Rd., Oxford). There will be a themed table decorating contest, a live auction, dinner, beer and wine, and dancing to a DJ. Tickets are $75, with options for groups. For ticket information, visit www.oxfordart.org/ dance-party-tickets.

Through Sept. 30 Festival of Fountains

Longwood Gardens (Route 1, Kennett Square) has daily fountain shows, live music in the Beer Garden on weekends, Fireworks and Fountains shows on six nights, and

Avery, Andrew Wyeth, Hans Hofmann, Robert Motherwell, David Hockney, Wolf Kahn, Jamie Wyeth and Andy Warhol, along with Bo Bartlett and Robert Cottingham. Visit www. somervillemanning.com for more information.

Through May 26

Harry Dunn tribute

The Sunset Hill Fine Arts Gallery (23 N. High St., West Chester) will host “A Tribute to Harry Dunn” through May 26. The show features nearly 100 of Dunn’s colorful, nostalgic and whimsical paintings, representing 50 years of his career. For information, call 610-692-0374 or email sandy@sunsethilljewelers.com.

Through May 25

Mary Pritchard solo show

The Station Gallery (3922 Kennett Pike, Greenville, Del.) hosts “Variations,” a show of new pastels by Mary Pritchard, through May 25. Call 302654-8638 or visit www. stationgallery.net.

Through May 30

Brett Walker solo show

The Blue Streak Gallery (1721-1723 Delaware Ave., Wilmington, Del.) will host a show of new paintings by West Chester artist Brett Walker through May 30. Walker will also appear at the gallery for a book signing and talk on May 10 from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Call 302-429-0506 for more information.

June 1 to 29

Sunset Hill Gallery in West Chester

Sunset Hill Fine Arts Gallery (23 N. High St., West Chester)

an outdoor performing arts series, continuing through Sept. 30. General gardens admission, by timed ticket, is $23 for adults, $20 for seniors over 62, $12 for ages 5 to 18, free for children 4 and younger. Visit www. longwoodgardens.org for more information and tickets.

Kennett Flash schedule

The Kennett Flash (102 Sycamore Alley, Kennett Square) hosts regional and national artists. Tickets are available in advance at www.kennettflash.org, or at the door. Snacks and beverages are sold, or guests can BYOB. The schedule includes: Twisted Pine EP release show with Upstate Rubdown (May 24, 8 p.m., $15 and $18); Chloe Likes Olivia with Sandboxing and The World Without Us (May 25, 8 p.m., $10 and $14); Mark Unruh (June 1, 8 p.m., $20 and $24); Warchild: Jethro Tull tribute band (June 2, 8 p.m., $23 and $27);

Kategory 5 – Rewind to Vinyl with Kaleigh Kahan (June 8, 8 p.m., $18 and $22); Stringsongs featuring Tim Farrell, Michael Manring and Pat Robinson with Master Class (June 9, 8 p.m., $25 and $40); Backtrack (June 14, 8 p.m., $16 and $20); Better Than Bacon imorov comedy troupe (June 15, 8 p.m., $11 and $20); We Kids Rock live show (June 16, 11:30 a.m., $10 and $14); Ben Caplan (June 16, 8 p.m., $15 and $18); Countdown to Ecstasy – Steely Dan tribute band (June 22, 8 p.m., $30 and $35); Jeffrey Gaines CD release party (June 29, 8 p.m., $22 and $25); Eilen Jewell (July 14, 8 p.m., $22 and $26).

To submit items to the Calendar of Events, e-mail jchambless@chestercounty. com. There is no charge. Not every submission can be included. Items should be submitted at least two weeks before the event.

hosts the opening of an exhibit by Marie Wolfington Jones and Steven J. White on June 1 from 4 to 9 p.m. Jones paints floral still lifes and plein-air landscapes, and White’s paintings are primarily landscapes. The show continues through June 29. Call 610-692-0374 or visit www. sunsethilljewelers.com. June 1 to 30

This attractive custom built ranch home boasts views of the surrounding farm fields & countryside. Conveniently located minutes from both the Lancaster County border & Kennett Square and close to Kelton. Interior of the home features a spacious custom kitchen with quartz countertops and open floor plan that incl. both formal and informal dining areas, family room with gas fireplace, lg. laundry room with

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Group show

The Station Gallery (3922 Kennett Pike, Greenville, Del.) presents new works by Rachel Altschuler, Jim Barwick and Mary Ann Weselyk from June 1 to 30. There will be an opening reception with the artists on June 1 from 5 to 8 p.m. Call 302-654-8638 or visit www. stationgallery.net.