Cashing in: eight charged with taking 55 tons of nickel

By Mike McGann, Editor, The Times An example of one of the “super sacks” of nickel reportedly stolen from ArcelorMittal in South Coatesville. SOUTH COATESVILLE — While the good old nickel coin might not seem like it is worth much these days, its namesake metal, which makes up 25% of the coin, is a lot more valuable and apparently was targeted for theft in a big way — to the tune...

Officials warn coming cold snap a danger to pets, too

With the temperatures expected to drop sharply in the next couple of day in and around Chester County, folks are reminded that we need not just to worry about our two-legged friends, but those with four as well: our pets. State officials are urging the public to take extra precautions to ensure the safety of their pets during a dangerous cold snap across much of the state over the next few days.

Police: keep your car locked, hide valuables from sight

Keep it locked, local police say. With the holiday season fast approaching, another season is upon us: auto break-in and theft season, according to local police. With a few steps of caution, Coatesville Police advise that you can keep your car, valuables and even your home a whole lot safer this holiday season. The first tip is to keep your car locked and windows rolled up any time your are not...

Unionville High students give back, make Toys For Tots

Tech Ed. department continues multi-year tradition of building toys for the holidays The 3-D Autodesk Inventor file of the toy chicken, as created by Paige Harlan. EAST MARLBOROUGH — Although this is the season for giving, few things are as precious as items that are handcrafted and built with love for those less fortunate. Once again, the Tech Education classes at Unionville High School are...

Report: Unified emergency services may offer benefits

E. Marlborough plans no tax hike in 2017 By Karen Cresta, Staff Writer, The Times East Marlborough Township Planning Commission Chair Cuyler Walker discusses a report on potentially unifying emergency services for six area towns with Township Supervisor Bob Weer. EAST MARLBOROUGH – A first step toward unifying a crazy quilt of emergency services for six area towns may have taken a step forward...

On Stage (Extra): Sunday night shows to calm the soul

By Denny Dyroff, Staff Writer, The Times Soraia Rather than attending a show or watching a movie in a theater, people in this area tend to stay at home on Sunday nights – especially during the winter months. That tendency will increase for the next few Sundays with the added pressure of recovering from weekend holiday shopping. Fortunately, there is a variety of shows and events that could easily...

County to hike property taxes 4.95% for 2017

First increase since 2014 WEST CHESTER — The Chester County Commissioners unanimously approved the 2017 budget this week. The budget calls for $460,094,845 in operating expenses and $87,504,129 for its capital budget. “Led by our strategic priorities, including public safety and balanced growth, Chester County continues to invest in projects, programs and services that will benefit our residents...

‘Shop With a Sheriff’ to be held Saturday

A cart chauffeured by Deputy Sheriff Mike Sarro delights a young shopper. EAST MARLBOROUGH — A rarity: the sounds of real joy might just be heard in the aisles of the local Wal-Mart on Saturday, Dec. 3. More than 100 children from the Chester County Family Academy, a K-2 charter school in West Chester, will receive a law-enforcement escort to the store — highlighted by wailing sirens and...

Give extra ‘thanks’ for safety this holiday

With the Thanksgiving holiday, folks around the Chester County area will be indulging in two activities: travel to be with friends and family and, of course cooking. While both are cornerstones of the holiday season, both can offer hazards if folks don’t exercise appropriate caution.

Sivek named new director of Coatesville VA Center

Carla Sivek CALN — The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) announced Friday the appointment of Carla Sivek as the new director of the Coatesville VA Medical Center. Sivek will oversee delivery of health care to approximately 20,000 Veterans with an operating budget of about $200 million. “We are excited that Ms. Sivek has been selected as the new director of the Coatesville VA Medical Center,”...