Giving spirit of ‘Shop with a Cop’ crosses generations

State, county, local police help area children get into spirit of giving
By Kyle Carrozza, Staff Writer, The Times
Coatesville Police Lt. James Audette plays Christmas songs on the saxophone before heading out to Wal-Mart in Parkesburg with needy kids from around Chester County as part of the “Shop With a Cop” program earlier this month.
PARKESBURG – From the classics like Barbies...
What To Do: It’s holiday excitement from wall to wall

Ballet, candlelight tours, shows, music — everything to get you in the holiday spirit
By Denny Dyroff, Staff Writer, The Times
The Brandywine Ballet’s “The Nutcracker” will have eight performances now through Dec. 21 at West chester University.
For families as well as fans of the arts, one of the most popular annual holiday activities each year is attending a performance of the classic...
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...