Prison Escapee Plans Known, WCU Prof wins award, and Caln gets a new fire ruck!

In this Downingtown Local Pulse Issue…

🌤️ Downingtown PA Weather

📢 Advanced Warning of Escape by Convicted Murderer Raises Security Concerns

🏅 WCU Professor Susan Fiorentino to Receive "Woman of Distinction" Award

👾 ‘AI for Impact’ workshop for nonprofits hosted by United Way of Chester County

🥫 West Chester Food Cupboard Expands Facility to Enhance Services and Reach More People in Need

🎨 Longwood Gardens Hosts Engaging Workshops for Young Nature and Art Enthusiasts

🚒 Caln Township Invests in Safety with New Fire Truck

⚾️ Phils Shutout Diamonbacks 10-0

⚾️ Fans Gather in West Chester for Phillies Bus Rally Tomorrow

📆 Upcoming Local Events

Advanced Warning of Escape by Convicted Murderer Raises Security Concerns

An email exchange revealed that a prison guard had warned of an escape plan by convicted murderer Danilo Cavalcante more than a month before his successful escape from Chester County Prison in southeastern Pennsylvania. The prison sergeant, Sgt. Beavers, mentioned in an email sent hours after Cavalcante's August 31 escape that Corrections Officer Hernandez had noted back in July that the inmate was planning an escape. Sgt. Beavers expressed concern that they did not want the issue to reflect negatively on Hernandez.

The email was forwarded to Capt. Griswold, who subsequently sent it to the prison's acting warden, Howard Holland, along with a note about how to proceed with the information. County spokesperson Rebecca Brain clarified that the three individuals in the emails aimed to ensure that Acting Warden Holland was aware of the prior note about an escape.

Security measures for inmates classified as "escape risks" were primarily enforced during off-site prisoner transport, but they have since been enhanced both inside the prison and during transfers. These measures include assigning different-colored clothing for potential escape risks and assigning one or two corrections officers to monitor each inmate outside their cells. The prison has also committed to adding more cameras, enclosing exercise yards, and increasing staffing.

WCU Professor Susan Fiorentino to Receive "Woman of Distinction" Award

West Chester University Professor of Management Susan Fiorentino will be honored with the Gladys Black "Woman of Distinction" Award at The Fund for Women and Girls' 7th annual Champions of Change Breakfast. Fiorentino, known for her expertise in employment and labor law and extensive research on women's workplace legal issues, is recognized for her multi-faceted contributions as a lawyer, professor, researcher, speaker, and advocate. The award ceremony also acknowledges her role in launching the university's human resource management program. Beyond her professional achievements, Fiorentino actively supports student success as the First Lady of West Chester University. In addition, The Fund will honor Countryside Consulting Inc. with the Champions of Change Corporate Award and Chester County OIC with the WSFS Nonprofit Workforce Development Award.

‘AI for Impact’ workshop for nonprofits hosted by United Way of Chester County

United Way of Chester County is set to host the "AI for Impact" workshop in collaboration with the Penn State Nittany AI Alliance. The event aims to empower nonprofits by providing insights and dispelling myths about artificial intelligence (AI). This comprehensive workshop will encourage creative thinking about AI projects, facilitate connections between AI students and nonprofits, and foster innovation and collaboration to drive meaningful impact in Chester County. The event will take place on November 1 at the United Way of Chester County's location in Exton, PA. Space is limited.

West Chester Food Cupboard Expands Facility to Enhance Services and Reach More People in Need

The West Chester Food Cupboard has expanded its facility on 431 S. Bolmar St., offering a larger shopping area and a comfortable waiting room for visitors to the Food Cupboard Express Pantry. This expansion enables them to store more products and make significant purchasing savings. Funding for the new facility came from grants and donations, including contributions from the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services, the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, and the Chester County Food Bank. The Food Cupboard, staffed entirely by volunteers, has been providing food assistance to those in need since its establishment in 2009. The COVID-19 pandemic led to the creation of the Food Cupboard Express, which is open to anyone regardless of income or residency on Mondays and Fridays from 2-6 p.m. The Food Cupboard also collaborates with over 20 local agencies and service providers to expand its outreach efforts.

Longwood Gardens Hosts Engaging Workshops for Young Nature and Art Enthusiasts

Longwood Gardens, renowned for its horticultural displays and educational programs, has announced two upcoming workshops designed for youngsters aged 10-16. These interactive sessions will provide an engaging learning experience, nurturing a love for nature and art. The first workshop, "Stylish Houseplants," will focus on Kokedama, while the second, "Watercolors in the Meadow," offers a creative exploration of the Meadow Garden's beauty. Both events aim to inspire young minds through hands-on and educational experiences.

Caln Township Invests in Safety with New Fire Truck

Caln Township's Board of Commissioners has approved the acquisition of a new rescue pumper (fire truck) to replace the aging Rescue 38, which is 22 years old. The decision reflects the township's dedication to enhancing emergency response services for its community. The purchase was the result of diligent research and design efforts by a dedicated volunteer committee. The new rescue pumper will ensure Caln Township continues to provide efficient and reliable firefighting and rescue capabilities.

Phillies' Powers Dominant 10-0 Victory, Seizing 2-0 NLCS Lead

The Philadelphia Phillies extended their NLCS lead to 2-0 with a resounding 10-0 win over the Arizona Diamondbacks. A fearless and aggressive offensive approach, along with stellar pitching, has been the key to their success, with Kyle Schwarber and Trea Turner leading the power-packed performance. The Phillies have now hit 19 home runs in just eight postseason games, and their unwavering confidence is driving their pursuit of a championship.

Phillies Fans Gather in West Chester for Red October Bus Rally Tomorrow

Join the Red October Bus Rally in West Chester as Phillies fans celebrate the team's success. The bus, stopping in downtown West Chester on a Phillies' off day after two victories in Citizens Bank Park, is a double-decker making its way through the tri-state area. At 1 p.m., it will be at the 50 block of North Church Street, offering fans a chance to partake in a pep rally ahead of game three in Arizona. Notable sports figures, including the Phillie Phanatic, Phillies Ballgirls, and 1993 NL champions Mickey Morandini and Milt Thompson, will be aboard for fans to interact with. Everyone is encouraged to sign the bus with encouraging messages and bond with fellow Phillies enthusiasts. Additional stops include Rodney Square in Wilmington, Delaware, and Chickie's & Pete's in Philadelphia, with more surprise stops along the way. Game three in Arizona is scheduled for 5:07 p.m. on Thursday.