January 28, 2016 - ChaddsFordLive.com

Leadership void may doom Community Fair

Noting that the future of the Unionville Community Fair is in jeopardy, the fair’s executive board is seeking its next president and treasurer – positions that have to be filled for the fair to continue.

The Unionville Community Fair needs a president and treasurer to continue operating. — The Unionville Community Fair needs a president and treasurer to continue its record of unbroken service to area residents for 91 years.

The Unionville area is rich with dedicated community leaders, and the fair needs just two, and only for a two-year term. The structure of the fair is financially, programmatically, and logistically sound; an experienced board and many volunteers stand firm in their commitment to serve and support, said a press release from the fair’s executive board.

Over the past 91 years, the Unionville Community Fair has grown from a grassroots school harvest festival to a vibrant community institution. In mission, it stands on solid ground to honor the area’s agricultural heritage, promote environmental education, and provide engaging family and community-centered programs, the release said.

To ensure that the fair continues its unbroken record of service to the community, the board has conducted vigorous recruitment and has met with many community leaders, but efforts to secure leadership commitments have been unsuccessful, according to the release.

As a result, the board is now reaching out to the broader community for support. If these leadership positions remain unfilled as of Feb. 29, it will be necessary to cancel the 2016 Unionville Community Fair, and likely, all future fairs, the release said.

The board is urging members of the community to join it in respecting the heritage and assuring the future of the fair with a gift of leadership.

Anyone with interest or questions is asked to contact Danielle Chamberlain at 610-299-7525. All interested fair supporters are encouraged to attend an upcoming meeting at the Willowdale Chapel, 675 Unionville Rd., Kennett Square, Pa., on Feb. 17 at 7 p.m.

About Press Release

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Phyllis A. Bloom Ensbrenner Rogers Pastorius of West Grove

Obituaries

Phyllis A. Bloom Ensbrenner Rogers Pastorius, 88, of West Grove, died Wednesday, Jan. 27, at her home. She was the wife of the late Donald D. Pastorius who died in 1992 and with whom she shared 42 years of marriage.

Born in Canton, Ohio, she was the daughter of the late Elmer J. and the late Margaret G. (Ensbrenner) Bloom.

She was a retired bookkeeper, and had been employed by William H. Jester, Deb-Mark Mushrooms, Inc., Roy T. Weston, Inc., Speare Brothers and Grieco-Miller Printing Co. of Chester. She kept the books on a volunteer basis for the Assumption BVM Church and school in West Grove.

She was a 1945 graduate of the Chester High School, where she was a member of the National Honor Society.

She was a founding board member of the Alcoholism Recovery Center. She served two terms as secretary and did volunteer work for A.R.C. before it became affiliated with the Southern Chester County Medical Center. She also volunteered for Bowling Green Inn.

Phyllis was a lifelong Roman Catholic and was a member of Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Church in West Grove, where she served two terms as a Parish Council member and was a member of the “People of Joy” Charismatic Prayer Group.

She enjoyed being with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, flower gardening, quilting, traveling, and reading.

Phyllis is survived by four sons, Dondial J. Pastorius of Claymont, Robert Pastorius (Linda) of West Grove, Paul Pastorius of West Grove, and Dan Pastorius (Debbie) of Mesa, Ariz.; three daughters, Candance L. Johnson of Aston, Mary A. Bush (John) of West Grove, and Paula Lownes of West Grove; 21 grandchildren and 24 great-grandchildren.

She was predeceased by two sons, Arthur Pastorius and Mark Pastorius (Pat).

You are invited to visit with Phyllis’ family and friends from 8:45 to 9:45 a.m. Monday, Febr. 1, at Assumption BVM Catholic Church, 300 State Road, West Grove, PA 19390. Her Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 10 a.m. Interment will be in Union Hill Cemetery in Kennett Square. Contributions in her memory may be made to the Building Fund of Assumption BVM Church. Arrangements are by Cleveland & Grieco Funeral Home of Avondale (610-268-2166). To share a memory with her family, please visit www.griecocares.com

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Former E. Marlborough sex offender paroled

Local News

A former East Marlborough Township man was paroled last month, having spent nearly a year in prison on child-pornography charges.

Jeffrey M. Ball of East Marlborough Township is awaiting extradition from South Carolina. — Jeffrey M. Ball

State police said the case against Jeffrey M. Ball, 46, began in March 2014, when detectives from Delaware County determined that Ball was sharing images of child pornography online from his residence.

In September 2014, troopers executed a search warrant at Ball’s home, seizing several computers, which were examined and found to contain illicit images. An arrest warrant was issued the following month, but Ball had already fled, abandoning his family, police said.

Ball remained on the lam for several months, police said. Acting on an anonymous tip that Ball was hiding in South Carolina, troopers said they contacted the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) and provided information on Ball’s status as a fugitive and his probable whereabouts in Pendleton, S.C. He was taken into custody in January 2015.

From that point on, Ball cooperated with authorities, said Chester County District Attorney Tom Hogan, who said Ball waived extradition as well as his preliminary hearing. Although Ball was initially charged with more than 500 counts of child pornography for each image investigators found, he pleaded guilty to five counts, which carried a standard sentencing guideline range of six to 14 months in prison.

Ball, who has since moved to Montgomery County, received a sentence of 11½ to 23 months in prison followed by five years’ probation. In addition, he is subject to lifetime registration under the provisions of Megan’s Law, is prohibited from having unsupervised contact with children, and forfeited his computers, court records said.

Hogan said when a defendant takes responsibility for all of the criminal conduct, it is standard practice to reduce the number of counts to maintain court efficiency. However, he said cases such as Ball’s have prompted district attorneys across the state to work toward getting a “guideline enhancement” for sentencing that would be based on the number and nature of the images.

An online business profile identified Ball as having worked in training and information technology at a variety of companies in the greater Philadelphia area.

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Kidnapping attempt suspect’s sketch released

Police

State police from the Avondale barracks have released a composite sketch of the man who allegedly attempted to abduct a 10-year-old girl in Penn Township on Tuesday, Jan. 19.

Police said the girl worked with police to provide details for the sketch. Police and area school district have asked parents and guardians to be vigilant at bus stops and to report any suspicious activity immediately.

According to police, the girl got off of her school bus near Oxford Circle and Hilltop Drive in Penn Township about 4:10 p.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 19. As she was walking on the sidewalk toward her home, a skinny white male wearing all black clothing and sunglasses grabbed both of her wrists and told her to go with him, a police press release said.

The girl was able to escape and run to her home, police said. Anyone with information on an individual matching the sketch – or anyone resembling the sketch who recently made a significant change to their appearance – is asked to contact the barracks at 610-268-2022.

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Adopt-a-Pet Jan. 28

Home and Leisure

Come meet all the wonderful animals available now for adoption at the Chester County SPCA. All featured pets are “Name Your Price” adoption fee until Monday, Feb. 1. Can’t adopt yet? How about if your sponsor a pet and provide a safe place for our companions to rest until they find their forever homes. Help us give them

a second chance at a fresh start.

Abby

Hi, Abby is the name and I’m noticed everywhere I go. I’m large and in charge and have a way of making everyone fall in love with me. I love to run up and meet new people. I’m very obedient and get along with most dogs. I prefer to relax but on occasion and I can be enticed to go out and play, but I like to keep it low-key — I’m not big on running. An afternoon stroll around the block or park is the best bet for me. A huge fan of car rides and good food, you’ll find me always by your side ready to cuddle. Come down to the shelter and ask about Abby.

Mocha

I’m a sweet pup topped with a hint of affection and a touch of love. I’m a bolt of energy just like the drink I’m named after. I was raised in an environment of neglect but the shelter has introduced me to awesome new friends and people. I didn’t have much interaction with the animals and staff when I first arrived, but now I’m opening up more and learning basic commands. I also gained some weight, going from 35 to 50 pounds. I’m feel like I’m a new girl and I’m looking for a family who doesn’t mind giving me a bit more extra training and love. Come down to the

shelter and order a Mocha. Double shot of love and affection.

Sassy

Need I say more? I’ve been blessed with a moniker that is entirely derived from my personality — bold, lively and spirited. I am very happy pup that is friendly with everyone that I meet. I’m obedient and respond well to commands, each day I’m getting better and better. Come down to the shelter and add some sass into your life.

Click HERE to learn about all of our dogs at our Pennsylvania Campus in Chester County.

Meowth

I’m blasting off at the speed of light! Meowth, that’s right. I can’t talk like my Pokemon counterpart but I’m pretty vocal about what I want and when I want it. I was a stray that made my way to the Shelter on Christmas Eve and the staff learned that I love attention. I’m also a bit of a show off as I been told. I prefer to be the only cat that’s in your life, and the only thing in your life; so no children or other small pets. Come down to the CCSPCA and ask about Meowth.

Mitzie Mittens

Hi, I’m Mitzie Mittens, a 13-year old female that was surrendered right before the holidays. I’m a very shy kitty and I’m still adapting to life at the shelter and learning to become friendly with the other cats and staff. I haven’t gotten much attention and need to be socialized with so I need someone who has experience with cats to give me the proper love and affection. Come down to CCSPCA and ask about Mitzie.

Click HERE to learn about all of our cats at our Pennsylvania Campus in Chester County.

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Op/ed: Heroes of budget impasse recognized

Opinion

When Governor Wolf and the state legislature were unable to reach a state budget agreement by July 1, 2015, the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania lost its authority to spend funds for crucial programs and services. These included critical social needs such as child welfare and protective services, aging, mental health, intellectual disabilities, substance-abuse treatment and prevention, homeless assistance, food programs and lottery-funded transportation.

Chester County relies on human services agencies to meet these crucial social needs. Many of our citizens would have been harmed had programs and services been halted while payments were withheld because of the state budget impasse. Given our county government’s financial strength, we were able to provide substantial interim funding to human services agencies throughout the second half of 2015. A large number of counties across the state were not able help with ongoing payments.

But even with our financial support, many human services agencies were forced to make difficult decisions. They protected their clients – our vulnerable citizens – by tapping savings accounts, borrowing funds, reducing or suspending payments to their own vendors, limiting staff travel, laying off or reducing hours of employees, or reducing hours of operation in their efforts to ensure clients felt no harm.

The actions of so many within the human services sector have not gone unnoticed by us. This week we passed a resolution formally acknowledging Chester County human services agencies for their exemplary commitment and selfless sacrifice in maintaining service to Chester County residents whose needs transcend the political landscape of budget adoption. They focused on service delivery despite the extreme and egregious difficulties created by the state budget impasse. They are true heroes, and we thank them all.

Chester County Board of Commissioners:

Terence Farrell, Kathi Cozzone, Michelle Kichline

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Temporary business signs an issue in Chadds Ford

Local News, Local News Chadds Ford

Temporary signs for retailers in Chadds Ford are an issue again. A move to allow the signs was made in 2009 when the economy was flagging. Members of the Chadds Ford Business Association made a plea to supervisors who agreed to allow the signs — small A-frame signs — on an annual basis.

The result was a resolution amending the sign ordinance. Business owners had to apply annually for a permit that cost $150. Signs were to be allowed only during businesses hours and had to be removed when the shops closed up for the night. The signs must be properly secured so they don’t blow over.

Supervisors had to re-authorize the resolution allowing the signs every year. But that might change.

During the Jan. 5 Board of Supervisors’ meeting, Supervisors’ Chairman Frank Murphy said he didn’t want to see the issue come up every year. The matter was addressed briefly during the Jan. 27 workshop and will be reviewed more fully and possibly amended during the Feb. 3 meeting. One thought is that the signs could only be authorized for six months instead of a full year.

During the workshop, Murphy said some residents consider the signs “an eyesore” and want them gone. He added that some of the shopkeepers don’t abide by the rules.

When questioned, Murphy said he wants input from both the business community and residents.

“We want to provide certainty for the business owners, safety for residents, and to make sure we have an attractive township,” he said.

The thought of losing the signs concerns Thom McGurn, owner of Chadds Ford Hypnosis on Route 1, and the only business owner affected who attended the workshop.

“My concern is that we’re making an investment in a sign, then pay a fee for the permit and then in six months not be permitted to have the signs anymore,” McGurn said after the meeting.

What exactly will happen is uncertain at this point. Solicitor Michael Maddren said the township’s overall sign ordinance is in a state of flux.

Murphy, and fellow supervisors Samantha Reiner and Noelle Barbone, discussed the possibility of establishing a separate ordinance committee to review the code and possibly come up with something new and certain.

About Rich Schwartzman

Rich Schwartzman has been reporting on events in the greater Chadds Ford area since September 2001 when he became the founding editor of The Chadds Ford Post. In April 2009 he became managing editor of ChaddsFordLive. He is also an award-winning photographer.

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Around Town Jan. 28

Along the Ford

• On Saturday, Jan. 30, the new Wegmans Food Market in Concord Township, along all other Wegmans, will celebrate the 100th anniversary of the family-run business. At 11 a.m., a celebration cake will be served to customers and to employees.

• Chadds Ford Township will hold a Visioning Workshop, Jan. 28 at 6:30 p.m. Supervisor Samantha Reiner said the meeting is “where our community comes together to express goals and objectives, which hopefully will influence and inspire a rewrite of the town’s Comprehensive Plan.”

• The Kennett Area Senior Center sponsors a free Medicare counseling session on Thursday, Feb. 4, 11, 18 and 25 from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sign up to meet with a Department of Aging volunteer from APPRISE who can help with any questions you have about Medicare and your individual coverage. Please contact the KASC at 610-444-4819 to make an appointment.

• Southco, Inc., a global manufacturer of engineered access solutions, will be holding a regional job fair at its Concordville headquarters on Saturday, Feb. 13, from 9 a.m. to noon. Prospective candidates will be able to meet and interview with members of Southco’s Human Resources and management teams, and learn more about Southco and the opportunities available with one of the area’s leading companies. Southco is located at 210 N. Brinton Lake Rd.

• For the first time, the Brandywine River Museum of Art will offer free admission to visitors all day on the first Sunday of every month from February to November in 2016. These First Sundays for Families will feature special hands-on creative art activities sponsored by PNC Arts Alive and designed to engage visitors of all ages. The inaugural First Sundays for Families program for 2016 will be held on Feb. 7. Called “Seeing Red,” families can create Valentine’s Day cards using a variety of collage materials. On Sunday, March 6, families will enjoy “Crayon-a-thon,” and coloring outside the lines is encouraged.

• Darlington Arts Center is gearing up for its summer camp. Enrolling before April 1 brings with it a 10 percent discount. Weeklong-long camp sessions run from June 20 to Sept. 1. The camps are for kids from 3 to14 who are interested in music, art, dance or drama. For more information and enrollment, go to http://www.darlingtonarts.org/special-programs/summer-arts-camp/.

• Whole Foods Market in Devon and Wynnewood raised $9,527.39 for the Chester County Food Bank, as part of Feed 4 More, a national customer donation program. Shoppers were invited to donate funds at the time of checkout throughout the holiday season to support the Chester County Food Bank. The store has donated funds and food valued at over $45,000 since its partnership with the Chester County Food Bank began in 2012, said Larry Welsch, executive director of the food bank.

• The Chester County Fund for Women and Girls has been named the 2015 Mosteller Community Service Award winner by the Greater West Chester Chamber of Commerce for its long-term commitment to meeting the challenges confronting women and girls and its ongoing dedication to identifying and addressing those needs. The award will be presented during the GWCC annual banquet at the Desmond Hotel on Tuesday, Feb. 2. “The GWCC is honored to recognize the fund for its longevity and creativity and for its expertise in collaborating with organizations and individuals toward a common goal,” said GWCC President Mark Yoder.

• For the first time, West Chester University was included in U.S. News’ top 100 Best Online Programs for its online MBA program. U.S. News based its evaluation of online MBA programs on four criteria: faculty credentials and training, student services and technology, student engagement, and admissions selectivity. More than 1,200 distance education bachelor’s and master’s degree programs in various fields are cataloged in the 2016 directory. WCU remains among the top 100 regional universities in the north and among the top 20 public universities in the north.

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Academic Acknowledgment Jan. 28

School & Education

• Marilyn Prince, of Chadds Ford, was named to the Miami University (Ohio) President’s List. Miami University students who achieved a perfect 4.0 grade point average for first semester 2015-2016 have been named to the president’s list recognizing academic excellence. Prince is earning a bachelor of science degree majoring in middle childhood education.

• Carlin Piper, of Chadds Ford was named to the Miami University (Ohio) Dean’s List. Miami University students who achieved a 3.5 or better grade point average for first semester 2015-2016 have been named to the dean’s list recognizing academic performance. Piper is earning a bachelor of science degree majoring in supply chain and operations management.

• Caroline Earnest, of Chadds Ford, was named to The University of Scranton Fall 2015 Dean’s List. A student must have a grade point average of 3.5 or better with a minimum number of credit hours to make the list. Earnest is a senior environmental science major in the University’s College of Arts and Sciences.

• Tallulah Clark-Turner, of Chadds Ford, was named to Susquehanna University’s dean’s list for the fall 2015 semester. The deans list recognizes students who achieve a grade point average of 3.4 or higher out of a possible 4.0 for the semester. Clark-Turner, a business administration major in the Class of 2016, is a 2012 graduate of Unionville High School and the daughter of Jem and Naomi Clark-Turner.

• The Kennett Consolidated School District announced that the following students have been recognized as “Students of the Quarter” for the second marking period at Technical College High School: Taylor Thompson, animal science technology; Dago Rodriguez Villagomez, automotive collision technology; Daniela Sanchez Lopez, cosmetology I; Tyler Winters, criminal justice/police science; and Fani Huribet Velazquez Ortiz, criminal justice/police science.

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