📚 Superintendent Resigns | 🥫 State Grants | 📍Hibernia Mansion Tours

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In Today’s Edition of Downingtown Local Pulse…

☀️ Downingtown PA Weather

📚 Coatesville Superintendent Resigns

🥫 New Round of State Grants Reaches Chester County

🚪 Weekend Tours of Hibernia Park Mansion

🧊 Elmwood Park Zoo Celebrates Winter with Ice Slide and S’mores

🗓️ Upcoming Local Events

🏡 Just Listed Real Estate Listings

🔎 Local Business Finder

Coatesville Superintendent Resigns, Departs with Severance Package

COATESVILLE, PA — Coatesville Area School District superintendent, Catherine Van Vooren, has resigned after less than two years in the role. She will receive $350,000 in severance pay and health benefits through 2025, barring new employment. Known for returning to Coatesville after prior administrative roles elsewhere, she joins a string of superintendents who departed under tense conditions. Interim leadership is expected to continue as the district navigates another leadership transition.

Revitalizing Communities: New Round of State Grants Reaches Chester and Montgomery Counties

EXTON, PA — Nearly $650,000 in funding has been awarded to eight organizations in Chester and Montgomery counties as part of a series of state-sponsored initiatives designed to encourage business-backed community investments. The Neighborhood Assistance Program, Charitable Food Program, and Special Priorities Program collectively granted $34.3 million to projects statewide, marking the second round of allocations following a budget expansion that nearly doubled the available funds.

Local recipients include TriCounty Community Network, which helps families and individuals access transportation and housing services; the Chester County Food Bank, which combats food insecurity by distributing millions of pounds of nutritious produce and pantry items; and Coatesville’s 2nd Century Alliance, a driving force behind a culinary collective supporting small food-based enterprises. State officials expect these investments to revitalize underserved neighborhoods, foster small business growth, and enhance basic needs support in communities across Pennsylvania.

Weekend Tours Highlight Restoration Work at Hibernia Park Mansion

COATESVILLE, PA — The grand mansion at Hibernia County Park will be accessible to the public on upcoming weekends through guided tours led by rangers and members of the Friends of Hibernia County Park. Built in the late 1700s and linked to several prominent ironmasters, the property transitioned in the late 1800s into a seasonal home for a distinguished military figure. In an effort to maintain its authenticity, volunteers have meticulously refurbished a bedroom with era-appropriate fabrics, enhancing the overall experience for visitors. The fully restored, three-story residence features original artwork and furniture, offering insights into regional history and architecture. Each tour lasts around 45 minutes, welcoming guests of all ages to uncover a piece of Chester County’s heritage. Sign up online here

Elmwood Park Zoo Celebrates Winter with Ice Slide and S’mores

NORRISTOWN, PA — Elmwood Park Zoo will hold its Winterfest Weekend, transforming the grounds into a destination for seasonal fun. A 20-foot ice slide crafted by local artisans serves as the centerpiece, drawing both children and adults into the festivities. Attendees may explore various exhibits to meet the zoo’s animal ambassadors, ride the carousel, and gather around a fire for toasty s’mores. For those over 21, the celebration continues with winter-themed drink specials at ZooBrew, combining a festive spirit with a taste of local flavor. Info online

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