🏈🎓 West Chester University Sends Four Students to NFL Internships

In Today’s Issue of Downingtown Local Pulse…

🌤️☀️ Downingtown PA Weather

🏈🎓 West Chester University Sends Four Students to NFL Internships

⚽️🏀 Coatesville High School's CALC Program Shapes Future Leaders Through Athletics

🏠🏘️ Housing Authority of Chester County Appoints New Executive Director

🪴🌱 Uwchlan's Environmental Advisory Council Spurs Community Planting

💸📈 Gov. Shapiro Unveils Budget

🏡 Downingtown Real Estate

📆 Upcoming Local Events

🔎 Local Business Finder

From Campus to the NFL: West Chester University Students Land Coveted Summer Internships

Four West Chester University students have secured coveted internships with NFL teams this summer, marking a historic achievement for the university. Sharese Johnson, Gabrielle Louis-Charles, Julia Rose, and Nicholas Tucker will intern with the Kansas City Chiefs, New York Jets, Buffalo Bills, and Washington Commanders, respectively. The dean of the College of Health Sciences expressed pride in their success, highlighting the strength of the program. Neil Curtis, program director, noted the department's excellent reputation with the NFL, making this year's record-breaking feat even more significant.

Coatesville High School's CALC Program Shapes Future Leaders Through Athletics

Coatesville Area Senior High School is nurturing student leaders through the Coatesville Athletic Leadership Council (CALC). Established in 2022, CALC focuses on developing leadership skills among student-athletes, promoting a positive impact through community service and mentorship. Monthly meetings involve self-evaluations and trust exercises, with seniors subsequently mentoring younger students. About 30 students, representing each team, participate in CALC, contributing to a more positive atmosphere in the high school. The council emphasizes accountability and a holistic view of success, extending beyond mere victories.

Housing Authority of Chester County Appoints Paul Diggs as New Executive Director

Paul Diggs has been appointed as the new Executive Director of the Housing Authority of Chester County (HACC), succeeding Dale Gravett. With a background in affordable housing, Diggs brings valuable experience from various housing authorities. The Housing Authority Board highlights the significance of Diggs' leadership in meeting current housing needs. Established in 1963, HACC is dedicated to providing housing solutions and continues to innovate with an annual budget of approximately $22 million.

Seeds of Change: Uwchlan's Environmental Advisory Council Spurs Community Planting

Toni Gorkin led Sustainable Uwchlan's seed-sowing workshops, engaging volunteers in the winter stratification process. Over 60 plastic jugs were filled with native seeds, aiming to replenish community gardens and support pollinator habitats. Gorkin's expertise extended to the Forever Well program at Lionville YMCA and Downingtown High School East's Environment Club. The initiative emphasizes the importance of community involvement and offers a tutorial video for those interested.

Gov. Shapiro Unveils Massive Budget: Education, Economic Development, and Marijuana Regulation at Center Stage

Governor Josh Shapiro unveiled his second budget, emphasizing substantial increases in education, economic development, and the regulation of adult-use marijuana. The proposal, totaling $48.3 billion, aims to address funding public schools, relying on Pennsylvania's healthy reserves. Key elements include a $1.1 billion increase for public schools, targeting the discriminatory school funding system. The budget also allocates funds for higher education, private school voucher programs, and initiatives to legalize adult-use marijuana.

Facing resistance, particularly in the Republican-controlled Senate, Shapiro's proposal emphasizes competition, urging Pennsylvania to catch up with neighboring states. Legalizing marijuana, borrowing $500 million for site development, and fostering economic growth are central themes. The budget addresses public transportation, youth-based gun violence, and home and community services for the intellectually disabled. While critics label the spending as fiscally irresponsible, Shapiro argues that the investments are necessary for Pennsylvania's growth and competitiveness.

Newly Listed Homes:

301 Devon Circle, Downingtown (DASD, $415k)

216 Bradford Avenue, Downingtown (DASD, $350k)

423 Garfield Avenue, Downingtown (DASD, $320k)

226 Clarkdale Lane, Gilbertsville, (Boyertown SD, $450k)

Upcoming Local Events…

• February Car Care Clinic at United Tire - Feb 7th, Feb 21st, 6pm

• Handi-Crafters Fundraiser at Texas Roadhouse - Feb 7th, 4pm-10pm

• Benefits of Virtual Learning for Student Athletes - Feb 8th, 7-8pm

• #IHEARTDTOWN Happy Hour - Feb 13th, 5-8pm

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

• Home Composting Workshop - Feb 24th, 10am

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

• Attatoba Clayworks: Night of Music - Feb 24th, 7pm

• OCHS Presents - The Thorndale Coal Wharf - Feb 25th, 2pm