Bipartisan Brandywine Creek Community Clean-up

WEST CHESTER — Steve Fanelli, a Republican candidate in the 6th District Congressional seat, along with Rep. Christina Sappey, a West Bradford Democrat, celebrated Earth Day cleaning up tons of debris littering the banks of the Brandywine Creek in Chester County.

The debris left on the banks resulted from Hurricane Ida, which dumped 11 inches of rain on Chester County on Sept. 1.

The catastrophic flash flooding destroyed hundreds of homes and businesses along the Brandywine Creek.

The destruction and debris left behind by this historic storm are still adversely affecting the Brandywine Creek community.

Fanelli said he and Sappey led the community-based volunteer effort to clean the creek and its banks for future generations to enjoy.

Sappey expressed special thanks to Southeastern Chester County Refuse Authority, which waived dumping fees for the cleanup.

“It was inspiring to see neighbors come together to participate in this cleanup effort -- fittingly on Earth Day Weekend -- to help keep the waterway clean, protect the environment and restore the scenic beauty of the area,” Sappey said. “Volunteers worked for months to organize and were ultimately successful without the use of any state or federal grants.”

Participants include Tyler Arkatin, John DiGiuseppe, and volunteers with The Fence Authority, A.J. Blosenski, Inc., Bud Haly, Great Valley Propane, Haly Home Comfort, Knox Rentals, Mark Bruno, Terra Technical Services, Boselli Junk Removal, Drone Infinity, SECCRA, Dan Aquilante, Abel Brothers Towing, and The Brandywine Red Clay Alliance.

Fanelli is one of four candidates running for the Republican nomination with the hope of unseating Democrat Chrissy Houlahan.

Fanelli said he was compelled to organize the cleanup to return the river to its natural beauty.

“This area is my home,” Fanelli said. “I have lived here for decades, I walk my dog every morning along the Brandywine, enjoying the peace and tranquility of the natural undisturbed landscape as do thousands of other residents.”

Fanelli said there is still much to do along the creek. He asked the public to be on the lookout for upcoming conservation clean-up efforts.

The other candidates running on the Republican ticket Regina Mauro, 57, of Devon; Ron Vogel, 36 Malvern; and Guy Ciarrocchi, 57, Tredyffrin Township.