🚨 Six Charged, Including Teen in "Friendly Fire" Death

In Today’s Issue of Downingtown Local Pulse…

🌤️ Downingtown PA Weather

 🚨 Six Charged, Including Teen in "Friendly Fire" Death

💳 Brandywine Valley Active Aging to Host "Senior Scam Jam" for Fraud Awareness

🍕 Downingtown Pizza Hut Opening: Free Pizza for a Year for Early Arrivals

🎓 AAUW Invites Applications for Academic Scholarship

🚰 Watershed Restoration Initiatives in Chester County Receive Over $200,000 in State Funding

🍻 Twelfth Annual Kennett Winterfest

📆 Upcoming Local Events

Coatesville Tragedy Unfolds: Six Charged, Including Teen in "Friendly Fire" Death

Six individuals, including Victor Lara-Ortiz, charged in the "friendly fire" death of Dametirus McClain-Jackson, are facing charges of first-degree murder and conspiracy. The group, involved in a retaliatory shooting prompted by an Instagram post, accidentally caused McClain-Jackson's death. Lara-Ortiz, previously involved in a tragic incident where his 4-year-old brother died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound, had his parole revoked due to his alleged involvement in McClain-Jackson's death. The case will be heard by Judge Alita A. Rovito, involving a joint investigation by various law enforcement agencies.

Brandywine Valley Active Aging to Host "Senior Scam Jam" for Fraud Awareness

The Pennsylvania Department of Banking and Securities and the Coatesville Police Department are organizing a "Senior Scam Jam" event on January 24 at Brandywine Valley Active Aging. The event aims to educate seniors about protecting themselves from scams, fraud, and identity theft in light of the evolving nature of technology. National statistics from the FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center highlight 88,262 fraud complaints in 2022 from individuals aged 60 and older, resulting in a total loss of $3.1 billion. The event has limited seating, and advanced registration is required, accessible online or by phone. Attendees are encouraged to reach out to local authorities or the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General in case of suspected scams.

Downingtown Pizza Hut Opening: Free Pizza for a Year for Early Arrivals

Flynn Group LP, the largest Pizza Hut franchisee, celebrates the grand opening of its new Downingtown location with an enticing offer: free pizza for a year to the first 25 guests on February 2. The 1,300-square-foot restaurant contributes approximately 15 jobs to the local economy and features a modern design for various order options from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM daily. Flynn Group emphasizes community investment and is actively hiring for positions nationwide.

AAUW West Chester-Chester County Invites Applications for Alice Lawson Academic Scholarship

The AAUW West Chester-Chester County Branch is accepting applications for the Alice Lawson Academic Scholarship, offering $3,000 to non-traditional women students facing educational interruptions. Eligible applicants must be at least 25 years old, have completed 60 semester credits, maintain a GPA of 3.0, and attend a Chester County college or university. The scholarship, in memory of Alice Lawson, aligns with AAUW's mission to advance equity for women and girls.

Watershed Restoration Initiatives in Chester County Receive Over $200,000 in State Funding

State Representative Christina Sappey and State Senator John Kane, both from Chester County, announced over $200,000 in state grants for flood mitigation efforts. The funds, allocated to the Brandywine Red Clay Alliance, include a grant for stream restoration at East Branch Red Clay Creek headwaters and Growing Greener funds for the Pocopson Creek Watershed Restoration Plan.

Twelfth Annual Kennett Winterfest: Warmth, Craft Beer, and Community Engagement

The twelfth annual Kennett Winterfest, organized by Kennett Collaborative, promises a heartwarming celebration on February 24th. Distinguished for its cozy atmosphere, the festival offers an intimate experience with over 60 breweries showcasing 130 unique beer options. Proceeds from Winterfest support Kennett Collaborative's vital programs, making it a fundraiser beyond a beer festival. With world-class music, diverse food offerings, unique vendors, and a "Best Dressed" competition, Winterfest invites attendees to embrace the winter chill with warmth, community, and craft beer.

Upcoming Local Events…

• 2024 OIC Opportunity Fair - Jan 23rd, 11am-2:30pm

• Kennett Winterfest - Jan 24th, 12:30pm-4pm

• Coatesville Senior Scam Jam - Jan 24th, 1pm-2pm

• Downingtown WINTER farmers market - Jan 27th 10am-12pm

• Business Showcase and Art Expo - Feb 17th, 11:30am-4pm