International Day of Peace | New Superintendent | Historic Tree Falls | Horror Play Premieres

In this Downingtown Local Pulse Issue…

🌤️ Downingtown PA Weather

🕊️ Advocates Gather at Chester County Courthouse to Promote Peace on International Day of Peace

🌳 Historic Chester County Tree Uprooted After Nearly Four Centuries

📚 West Chester Area School Board to Announce New Superintendent

🎭 People’s Light Theatre Premieres Horror Play "Bonez"

🚧 Road Construction Underway on U.S. 322 in Chester County

🌻 Lawn to Meadows Workshop for Residents

⛈️ Coastal Storm Preparedness

👨‍⚖️ Chester County Man Sentenced to 28 Years for Murder and Police Threat

🚨 Arrest Warrant Issued for Woman in DUI Case: West Whiteland Police Seek Public's Assistance

🏈 Downingtown West Dominates West Chester Henderson in Second Half Surge

🏈 Downingtown East Takes Victory Over Kennett

Advocates Gather at Chester County Courthouse to Promote Peace on International Day of Peace

On the International Day of Peace, approximately 40 peace advocates gathered at the Historic Chester County Courthouse to hear speakers emphasize the need for change. This annual event, observed since 1981, aims to promote a global ceasefire, with this year's theme being "Actions for peace, your ambitions for global goals."

Asim Rana, representing the Islamic Society of Chester County, spoke about the concept of peace and the challenges in achieving it, highlighting the role of injustice in undermining peace.

Jerry Simotas from Veterans for Peace mentioned the insights of Smedley Butler, a two-time Congressional Medal of Honor recipient from West Chester, who criticized war for its profit-driven motives.

Activist Tom Buglio focused on addressing violence by advocating for gun control laws, such as universal background checks, Red Flag Laws, and regulations on lost and stolen gun reporting.

State Sen. Carolyn Comitta received the Anne Moore Peace Award and declared the International Day of Peace in the Commonwealth.

The event featured chants and songs promoting peace and unity, emphasizing the importance of fostering positive change and kindness towards others.

Historic Chester County Tree Uprooted After Nearly Four Centuries

A centuries-old White Oak tree, which had served as a gathering place and symbol of heritage in Chester County for nearly 400 years, was unexpectedly uprooted this week. The tree stood on the grounds of the London Grove Friends Meeting Place near Kennett Square, with a history dating back to the early 1700s and a legacy that reached back to William Penn's era. While its fall has left the community in shock, plans for the tree's future have yet to be decided by the members of the London Grove Friends.

West Chester Area School Board to Announce New Superintendent

The West Chester Area School Board is scheduled to announce its new superintendent on Tuesday. Dr. David Christopher, with almost three decades of experience in public education, is set to assume this role. The board believes that Dr. Christopher will bring valuable experience and a fresh perspective to the district, fostering innovation and educational excellence. His appointment will become effective on December 4, following the retirement of the previous superintendent, Dr. Bob Sokolowski. Dr. Christopher was selected from a pool of 36 applicants and has a strong background in education, including previous roles as a superintendent, assistant superintendent, principal, curriculum director, and teacher in various Pennsylvania districts. He holds degrees in educational leadership, policy, and elementary education. The hiring process involved multiple interviews, reference checks, and input from stakeholders through focus groups and surveys. Dr. Christopher will replace Dr. Kalia Reynolds, who has been serving as interim superintendent since January 2023, returning to her role as assistant superintendent upon Dr. Christopher's appointment.

People’s Light Theatre Premieres Horror Play "Bonez"

People’s Light Theatre has premiered a new horror play titled "Bonez" on September 22nd, targeting fans of films like "Get Out" and "Candyman." The play is set in a luxury apartment, where a group of Black men playing dominoes is haunted by mysterious thumping sounds. The cast includes actors from both TV and stage.

Writer and Director Steve H. Broadnax III chose this setting to explore themes of white desirability, access, and equality for people of color. He believes horror is an effective genre to address real fears within the Black community, particularly Black men.

The play was developed as part of Queerways, PA, an extension of the People’s Light New Play Frontiers program. It will run at People’s Light Theater in Malvern until October 15th.

Road Construction Underway on U.S. 322 in Chester County

Roadway construction is underway on a 2.87-mile section of U.S. 322 (West Chester Bypass) in Chester County, Pennsylvania, as part of a $3.6 million project led by the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT). The construction involves intermittent lane closures between September 25 and September 29, from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM, in both directions of U.S. 322. These closures are needed for inlet adjustments. The project's goal is to improve safety and efficiency for motorists and bicyclists and includes various enhancements such as lane narrowing, acceleration lane extensions, traffic signal replacements, and more. It is expected to conclude this winter and is funded entirely by federal funds. Motorists are advised to expect delays when traveling through the construction zone.

Lawn to Meadows Workshop for Residents

Join the Lawn to Meadows Workshop on October 3, 2023, from 9:00 a.m. to noon, with lunch provided. This event will take place at Shadyside Park in West Bradford Township, PA, and is hosted by the Christina Watersheds Municipal Partnership. It's free for neighboring Township residents; simply specify your township in the "Organization" field when registering. See flyer here for participating townships.

Be Prepared for Coastal Storm Season!

Are you prepared for coastal tropical storms? After this weekend hopefully you are safe and sound, but in the future here are some tips when rough weather is on the radar:

1. Early Shopping: If you have any shopping needs or prescription medications to pick up, it is advisable to complete them today (Friday) rather than waiting until Saturday.

2. Secure Loose Items: Safeguard outdoor belongings such as trash cans, lawn furniture, and other valuable items that may become projectiles during the storm, causing additional damage.

3. Clear Storm Drains: Check storm drains around your property and in the street to ensure they are clear and free of debris. This helps prevent flooding.

4. Check on Neighbors: Be a good neighbor and check on elderly neighbors or relatives to see if they require any assistance before the storm arrives.

5. Avoid Flooded Roads: Never attempt to drive through high water. It's not worth the risk, as you could endanger your life or the lives of loved ones.

6. Prepare for Power Outages: Anticipate the possibility of power outages by charging your devices in advance and checking your battery supply. Never use a portable generator indoors.

7. Additional Resources: For more tips and considerations, please [click here](insert link).

8. Emergency Notifications: Sign up for essential notifications from the County Emergency Services department by [clicking here](insert link).

In case of emergencies, dial 911. Stay safe and be prepared for the coastal storm.

Chester County Man Sentenced to 28 Years for Murder and Police Threat

A Chester County man, Stephen Derez Young, has received a prison sentence of more than 28 years for a murder and a police threat incident. Young pleaded guilty to the murder of Warren Donald Curtis in 2022 and other related charges. Judge Allison Bell Royer sentenced him to a term ranging from 28 years and three months to 56½ years. The prosecutor had requested a longer sentence, highlighting Young's criminal history and the impact on Curtis's family and friends. The murder occurred in August 2020, and during the investigation, Young pointed a handgun at a police officer, causing significant fear. Young's attorney attributed his actions to mental issues related to drug use. The case underscores the consequences of his actions and their impact on the community.

Arrest Warrant Issued for Woman in DUI Case: West Whiteland Police Seek Public's Assistance

The West Whiteland Township Police Department has issued an arrest warrant for 33-year-old Megan Hickey. The warrant, declared by Chester County Magisterial District Court 15-4-3 on September 22, 2023, comes after Hickey failed to appear in court on charges related to Driving Under the Influence of Controlled Substances. If you have any information about Megan Hickey's whereabouts, please contact the West Whiteland Township Police Department at 610-363-0200 or submit your tip online. It's important to note that an arrest or criminal complaint does not imply guilt, and individuals are considered innocent until proven otherwise in a court of law.

Downingtown West Dominates West Chester Henderson in Second Half Surge

Downingtown West, in a Friday night matchup against West Chester Henderson, overcame a sluggish first half and unleashed a potent second-half offense to secure a decisive 42-7 victory in non-division action. The victory extended Downingtown West's undefeated streak to 5-0 for the 2023 season.

In the second half, Downingtown West outscored West Chester Henderson 28-7, with senior quarterback Quinn Henicle leading the charge by contributing a rushing touchdown and two touchdown passes, totaling four touchdowns overall. Despite a 14-0 lead at halftime, the Whippets elevated their game in the second half to seal the win.

The Whippets' defense stifled the Warriors' offensive efforts, allowing just one first down in the first half and five for the entire game. On the offensive side, Downingtown West amassed 215 rushing yards, with Kam Alex leading the charge with 101 rushing yards.

Downingtown East Takes Victory Over Kennett

Downingtown East's football team displayed its dominance with a 42-0 victory over Kennett. The Cougars, with a 5-0 record, showcased a powerful offense and a formidable defense. Despite Kennett's eight missing starters, East's defense shut them out, further highlighting their season's strength. The Cougars have been solid all season, with their only challenge coming in a narrow 28-26 loss to State College. Their offense, featuring new faces like Ayden Harris and JJ Helverson, has contributed significantly to their success. While Kennett faced a tough game, it provided valuable experience for their young players against a top-notch team. Overall, Downingtown East looks poised for a successful season with their impressive performance.