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New ‘Almost Heaven’ sign dedicated in Chester

By From staff reports 1 min read
Contributed RENEWED WELCOME – Various groups from the Chester community recently came together to have a new “Almost Heaven” sign built and installed in the same location where the original stood for almost 50 years. Pictured with the sign are, in front from left, Marjie Jo Jordan, Peter Blattner, Susie Wilson, and Debbie Havens, and, in back, Chester Mayor Ed Wedgewood, Mary Ann Wright, Willie Balt, Curt Havens, Harry Lang, Paie Rayle, Lauralee Blattner and Joann Lang.

CHESTER - A new "Almost Heaven" sign has been installed in Chester, completed through the efforts of the Chester Beautification Committee and others.

The sign takes the place of one originally built in 1977 by longtime resident Don Chaney, who had it placed on the hillside in front of his home where it greeted people crossing into the state for almost 50 years until being removed after succumbing to time and nature.

Recently, local residents, led by Marjie Jo Jordan, began an effort to raise funds for a new sign, with the cooperation of current property owners Peter and Lauralee Blattner who agreed to have the new marker installed where the original stood.

Initially, collection canisters were placed in Chester businesses, with efforts falling short of their goal.

Reinforcements came through, with the Beautification Committee and its President Dustin Lang, working with the Chester Lions Club, the City of Chester, Del. Pat McGeehan, the Blattner family, Mike Dotson and area residents to raise enough funds for the project.

Campbell Signs and Apparel created and installed the new sign, using pictures of the original as a framework.

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