Senator Comitta Honored, Coatesville Christmas Parade, and State Police remove college requirement

In this Downingtown Local Pulse Issue…

🌤️ Downingtown PA Weather

🎖️ Downingtown High School Alum, Senator Comitta, Honored for Exemplary Public Service

🎄 Chester County Gears Up for Coatesville's Annual Christmas Extravaganza

👮‍♂️ Pennsylvania State Police Scraps College Credit Requirement

👩‍⚖️ Escaped Chester County Inmate Hit with 20 Charges as Attorney General Unveils Legal Arsenal

🍽️ Bentley Family Launches Matching Gift Initiative to Address Rising Food Insecurity

👮‍♂️ Downingtown Students and Local Police Forge Connections in Innovative Program

💒 Casablanca Weddings and Events Showcased by Philadelphia Magazine

🧾 South Coatesville School Board Hires New District Solicitor

 📆 Upcoming Local Events

Downingtown High School Alum, Senator Comitta, Honored for Exemplary Public Service

State Senator Carolyn Comitta, a distinguished graduate of Downingtown High School, has been honored with induction into the Alumni Association Hall of Fame for her exemplary service to the community and significant contributions to the 19th Senatorial District. Comitta, known for her commitment to public education, reflected on the impact of her high school years. The recognition comes in light of her extensive political career, including roles as West Chester's mayor and a member of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives.

Chester County Gears Up for Coatesville's Annual Christmas Extravaganza

The Coatesville Christmas Parade, a hallmark of Chester County's holiday festivities, is set to enchant spectators on December 2nd at 10 a.m. With a rich history dating back to 1960, the parade boasts over 160 entries, showcasing everything from dancers to custom floats. Grand Marshal John Lymberis and the Krapf Group will be recognized, and this year's sponsors, Cleveland-Cliffs and Penn Medicine, underscore the community's support. The parade promises a diverse lineup, including Mummers bands, automotive competitions, and a festive appearance by Santa Claus, all viewable on CoatesvilleChristmasParade.com.

Pennsylvania State Police Launches Inclusive Cadet Application Cycle, Scraps College Credit Requirement

The Pennsylvania State Police (PSP) announces a new cadet application cycle, removing the college credit requirement, following a successful trial phase. The initial hiring cycle without this prerequisite witnesses a significant 258% increase in trooper examination participants, including 624 additional eligible candidates. The current application period, open until January 31, 2024, welcomes applicants with a high school diploma or GED, a valid driver's license, and a minimum age of 20. The selection process involves various assessments, and successful candidates undergo a 28-week cadet training, earning promotion to troopers with an annual salary of $66,911.

Escaped Chester County Inmate Hit with 20 Charges as Attorney General Unveils Legal Arsenal

Pennsylvania Attorney General Michelle Henry has announced 20 new charges against Danelo Cavalcante, the fugitive responsible for a two-week manhunt after escaping a Chester County prison. The charges include serious offenses like burglary and theft, detailing Cavalcante's actions during his attempt to elude law enforcement in Pennsbury and South Coventry townships. Lt. Col. George Bivens emphasized the gravity of the charges, stemming from incidents where Cavalcante allegedly burglarized homes and stole a Ford Transit van. Originally convicted of first-degree murder, Cavalcante is scheduled for arraignment on Friday, with the Office of Attorney General prosecuting the case.

Power of Community: Bentley Family Launches Matching Gift Initiative to Address Rising Food Insecurity

The Bentley Family is making a substantial impact by generously matching donations to the Chester County Food Bank, up to $500,000, from November 13 to December 24, 2023. Termed the Power of Community Matching Gift, this initiative encourages collaboration among local businesses and individuals to tackle the escalating problem of food insecurity in Chester County. The matched funds are expected to provide almost 800,000 meals, addressing a 30% surge in demand and a 25% decline in donations year over year. Andrea Youndt, CEO of the Chester County Food Bank, highlighted the significance of community support in amplifying the organization's ability to combat food insecurity in the region.

Downingtown Students and Local Police Forge Connections in Innovative Program

The STEM Academy's Black Student Union recently organized another successful session of the Making Connections Program, a collaborative effort between African American students and local law enforcement. During the 'Chat and Chew' meeting, Officer Maureen Rae from the East Brandywine Police Department engaged students in insightful discussions on various topics, drawing from her extensive law enforcement experience. The program, established to foster positive relationships and understanding, received praise from teacher Paul Setlock for injecting positivity into students' lives. Justin Brown, Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, emphasized the importance of such initiatives in ensuring students feel a sense of belonging. The STEM Academy looks forward to continuing these vital conversations.

Casablanca Weddings and Events: A Stylish Oasis in Coatesville's Wedding Landscape, Showcased by Philadelphia Magazine

Philadelphia Magazine recently spotlighted Casablanca Weddings and Events, an industrial-chic venue in Coatesville's Midway Arts hub. Launched in September by the photography duo Matt and Grace Rauppius, this venue offers indoor and outdoor spaces for weddings with a maximum of 60 guests. Providing personalized service, the venue manager and day-of coordinator guide couples through various packages, starting from a three-hour rental to full soirees inclusive of a sit-down meal. All packages feature a champagne toast and a signature drink, with catering by family-owned Doe Run Catering. With prices ranging from $750 to $6,600, Casablanca stands out as an accessible yet sophisticated option in Chester County's wedding scene.

South Coatesville School Board Hires New District Solicitor

In a recent South Coatesville school board meeting, pivotal decisions were made. The board appointed Wisler Pearlstine LLP as the district solicitor, approved agreements with Power School up to $100,165, and endorsed a $7,489 quote from Edutek Solutions LLC for the One to One Plus annual subscription. The meeting also included a presentation on the Scott 6th Grade Center, introducing the daily intervention time, WIN (What I Need), focusing on student needs and emphasizing math skills and college and career readiness.