Dinniman seeks to build career training center in Coatesville

State Sen. Andrew Dinniman
State Senator Andy Dinniman announced Thursday that he is working with the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) to build a career training and education center as part of the redevelopment of the new Coatesville Train Station.
“We are moving forward on a concept that will put a job skills, career training and education center right alongside Coatesville...
Good Stuff: Vote, Flu shots, good news and notes

Editors Note: Welcome to The Times latest column, ‘Good Stuff’, that will highlight positive happenings within the communities of Chester County in a quick, easy to read, and (we think) fun format.
Got ‘Good Stuff’ to share? Email ki*@*********es.com to help the get the word out. (All submissions are subject to editorial review; submissions are requested by the 15th and 30th of each month.)
MAKE...
Forget the Ebola hype, it’s flu that kills in the U.S.

County-wide flu vaccination & prevention programs ramp-up
By Kim Chiomento, Staff Writer, The Times
Thousands of county residents have begun rolling-up their sleeves to get vaccinated and help stop the spread of the influenza virus, commonly called the flu. Some lucky eligible residents are even able to “sniff” the nasal mist vaccine version instead.
While there has been much press and...
Legislators, county DA laud tough new arson law

Act 16 puts focus on those who would do harm with fire
By Mike McGann, Editor, The Times
State Sen. John Rafferty (R-44) talks about the state’s new arson law, which strengthens penalties for those injure or kill in the act of committing arson, Wednesday, at an event at Thorndale Fire Company. He was joined on left by state Sen. Dominic Pileggi (R-9, the Majority Leader of the Senate), Chester...
County approves $2.9M in revitalization grants

Kennett Sq., Coatesville, So. Coatesville among grantees
WEST CHESTER — The Chester County Commissioners approved $2.9 million in Community Revitalization Program (CRP) grants, Tuesday.
“Over the years, CRP grants have helped to improve communities across Chester County, focusing on urban areas,” said Commissioners’ Chair Ryan Costello. “In addition to improving the public health and...
Working to perpetuate Rebecca Lukens’ legacy

Annual award goes to former BVA intern and longtime open-space advocate
By Kathleen Brady Shea, Managing Editor, The Times
Molly K. Morrison chats with Susannah Brody, playing the role of Rebecca Lukens, at the Eighth Annual Rebecca Lukens Award ceremony in Coatesville.
Attired in 19th-century Quaker garb, Susannah Brody provided the voice of Rebecca Lukens, and the elegant Graystone Mansion,...
Preservationist tapped for Rebecca Lukens Award

Natural Lands Trust head lauded by National Iron and Steel Heritage Museum
Molly K. Morrison, president of Natural Lands Trust, has been selected as the recipient of the Eighth Annual Rebecca Lukens Award. Photo by Bob Williams
Bestowed by the Graystone Society’s National Iron and Steel Heritage Museum in Coatesville, the honor goes to individuals who exhibit the qualities of Rebecca Lukens,...
Volunteers make taxing chore less unpleasant

Life Transforming Ministries offering needy free help with IRS returns
It’s that time again: Free tax preparation is being offered to area residents who qualify for the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program (VITA), which is run by Life Transforming Ministries in Coatesville.
Modeled after a similar IRS program, VITA has been helping low- and moderate- income households throughout Chester County...
YMCA wants to help make resolutions stick

Members who hope to pursue healthier lifestyles will get assist
Hundreds of people make annual New Year’s resolutions to get fit, lose weight, or improve their overall health – often losing the resolve rather than the pounds.
This year, the YMCA of the Brandywine Valley, which is dedicated to strengthening communities through healthier living, is offering programs to help people keep those...
Area YMCAs offering free holiday tryout

From Dec. 26 to Dec. 31, residents can sample offerings at no charge
The only string attached to this holiday gift is the hope that the YMCA of the Brandywine Valley will be able to attract your patronage, its officials say.
From Dec. 26 to 31, YMCAs in the area will be open to the public for free – just in time to counteract the traditional holiday stress and overeating. Even better: The YMCA...