Bomb Threats Target Montgomery County Schools | Missouri Escapee caught and more!

In this Downingtown Local Pulse Issue…

🌤️ Downingtown PA Weather

🚨 Bomb Threats Target Montgomery County Schools, Perkiomen Valley Dismisses Early

🚔 Escaped Missouri Prisoner Captured in Chester County

👮‍♂️ Chester County Library Hosts Community Event with Police Officer's Participation

🎤 Chester County Welcomes Auditions for 'The Star' Singing Competition's Third Season

👾 Gov Signs Executive Order to Embrace AI Innovation in Pennsylvania

🏅 School in Exton Receives 2023 National Blue Ribbon School Recognition

Bomb Threats Target Montgomery County Schools, Perkiomen Valley Dismisses Early

Perkiomen Valley School District, along with several other Montgomery County schools, faced bomb threats in a recent wave of threats, although the Perkiomen Valley incident appears to be linked to the district's recent trans bathroom policy decision. Unlike the other districts, Perkiomen Valley chose to dismiss students early in response to the specific and profanity-laced threat. The threatening email criticized the district's policy and demanded its reversal, mentioning potential harm to girls' safety and comfort. However, it's important to note that this threat was not part of the nationwide 'swatting' campaign targeting schools, as clarified by district officials. The Pennsylvania Fusion Center determined these threats to be hoaxes, with no credible information supporting them. Other districts, including North Penn, Pottsgrove, and Spring-Ford, received similar hoax threats, believed to be part of a nationwide 'swatting' attempt, but local authorities confirmed their lack of credibility.

Escaped Missouri Prisoner Captured in Chester County, Pennsylvania After Three Months on the Run

Missouri Prison Escapee Apprehended in Chester County, Pennsylvania A child sex assault suspect, Mario Che-Tiul, who escaped from a Missouri prison in June, has been captured in Avondale, Pennsylvania, following a three-month-long manhunt. Che-Tiul, 34, was apprehended by the U.S. Marshals Service Fugitive Task Force and the Chester County Criminal Investigation Division on Gap Newport Pike in Avondale around 1:30 p.m. Thursday. He had been incarcerated in Barry County, Missouri, on child sex assault charges and had escaped along with six other inmates who attacked two correctional officers before fleeing. After his capture, Che-Tiul was taken to the Chester County Prison for processing and will eventually be returned to Missouri. U.S. Marshal Eric Gartner emphasized the relentless pursuit of escaped prisoners.

Chester County Library Hosts Community Event with Police Officer's Participation

On Sunday, September 17, 2023, Officer Ed Dvorak took part in a community event held at the Chester County Library, situated adjacent to the Exton Square Mall. Officer Dvorak engaged with children by reading to them and addressing questions from all event attendees. The West Whiteland PD acknowledges and appreciates The Chester County Library for providing this valuable opportunity for the police force to make a positive impact on the community.

Chester County Welcomes Auditions for 'The Star' Singing Competition's Third Season

Auditions for the local singing competition "The Star" are starting in Chester County, Pennsylvania. The competition, now in its third season, is a platform for talent across the Delaware Valley. Contestants have one song and one chance to impress judges, aiming for show-stopping performances. The winners receive cash prizes, performance opportunities, and assistance with 'American Idol' auditions. The auditions are divided into two categories: 8 to 17-year-olds and 18 and up. The competition's creator, Danny Murphy, sees it as a launchpad for aspiring musicians. To apply go to this website

Governor Shapiro Signs Executive Order to Embrace AI Innovation in Pennsylvania

On September 21, 2023, Governor Josh Shapiro signed an Executive Order aimed at establishing responsible standards and governance for generative artificial intelligence (AI) use by Pennsylvania's government agencies. The order outlines core values, principles, and the formation of a Generative AI Governing Board to guide policy and deployment. It positions Pennsylvania as a leader in ethical generative AI adoption and aims to enhance government operations, upskilling employees, and collaborating with research institutions like Carnegie Mellon University's Block Center for Technology and Society.

Saints Philip and James School in Exton Receives 2023 National Blue Ribbon School Recognition

Saints Philip and James School in Exton, Pennsylvania, has earned the prestigious 2023 National Blue Ribbon School recognition for its outstanding academic performance. This accolade, presented by the U.S. Department of Education, is a testament to the school's commitment to excellence in education and its efforts to narrow the achievement gap among students. Only 353 schools across the nation received this honor, with Saints Philip and James School being one of 13 in Pennsylvania. This achievement highlights the dedication of the school's educators, students, and community to fostering a safe and inclusive learning environment. It's worth noting that this is not the school's first recognition, as it was previously honored as a Blue Ribbon School of Excellence in 1989-1990. State Rep. Kristine Howard commended the school for its accomplishment, emphasizing its significance in the 167th District. The National Blue Ribbon Schools Program celebrates institutions that excel in teaching and learning, serving as a benchmark for educational excellence nationwide.