On Stage Extra: Joe Sumner proving he isn’t just a famous son

By Denny Dyroff, Entertainment Editor, The Times
Joe Sumner
When a musician has a legendary rock star as a parent, it can open doors or be a big burden – or both.
Joe Sumner, who will be headlining at show at MilkBoy Philadelphia MilkBoy Philly (1100 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, 215- 925-6455, www.milkboyphilly.com) on May 16, doesn’t have to worry about such things.
The talented singer/guitarist/songwriter...
Teen charged in threats against Coatesville HS

According to Caln Township Police, at approximately 7:00 a.m. on May 11, school officials learned of a circulating post on social media (Snapchat) that a shooting was to occur at the Coatesville Area High School. As a result, all students and staff were diverted to the Scott Middle School. Additionally, the Chester County Intermediate Unit, which is directly adjacent to the school district campus,...
On Stage: Jefferson Berry displays folk roots in new tour

By Denny Dyroff, Entertainment Editor, The Times
Jefferson Berry
Jamey’s House of Music (32 South Lansdowne Avenue, Lansdowne, 215-477-9985, www.jameyshouseofmusic.com) is one of those venues where music fans know there will be great music every weekend. It doesn’t matter who is playing, the evening will feature top-flight acts performing in a comfortable venue with a great sound system.
This...
CCEDC announces diversity plan

The Chester County Economic Development Council (CCEDC) announced the approval of a Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Strategic Plan comprising input from more than 50 community and business leaders as well as new programs focused on strengthening minority- and women-owned businesses in Chester County.
The plan, which was approved by CCEDC’s Board of Directors, was formulated over the last year...
Op/Ed: Consider taking refuge in the highly entertaining films of southern India

By Eric Klein, Special to The Times
Eric Klein
In the quiet hamlets of southeast Pennsylvania, there’s not a whole lot of action. The former farmlands turned to residential neighborhoods don’t offer much excitement.
Fortunately, we do have an IMAX movie theater in Downingtown, PA (population 7,926). I was very pleased to discover that this theater is heavily patronized by a growing Indian population...
Chester County Futures’ McDonald announces resignation

Maria McDonald
Chester County Futures (CCF) announced Monday its Executive Director, Maria McDonald, is stepping down from her position after 10 years of service to pursue a new and exciting opportunity outside of the region. The organization’s staff and Board of Directors have come together in appreciation and celebration of the profound impact her work has had on lives of the program’s students...
On Stage: John 5 shows his versatility

By Denny Dyroff, Entertainment Editor, The Times
John 5
The Sellersville Theater (24 West Temple Avenue, Sellersville, 215-257-5808, www.st94.com) has a reputation for presenting shows stretching across a wide swath of genres.
This week is a prime example.
The Sellersville Theater will present The Security Project (high level tribute project for the music of Peter Gabriel), Crack the Sky (classic...
What To Do: Just in time for Mothers’ Day, fountain show returns at Longwood

By Denny Dyroff, Entertainment Editor, The Times
Longwood Gardens
This weekend is a weekend featuring special events which are annual events and special events which are monthly events.
The annual events are Mother’s Day events.
Mother’s Day weekend coincides with the return of daily fountain performances at Longwood Gardens (Route 1, Kennett Square, www.longwoodgardens.org) is inviting visitors...
Officials: AGHS project debt service $19M below estimates, on schedule for fall opening

Avon Grove School District administrators gather for a photo in front of the new Avon Grove High School.
On April 12, Avon Grove School District (AGSD) announced that the district’s debt service for its Comprehensive Facilities Plan is $19 million below original estimates.
The Facilities Plan includes construction of a new Avon Grove High School (AGHS), slated to open for students this fall,...
On Stage: Baxter brings deep history to show at City Winery

By Denny Dyroff, Entertainment Editor, The Times
Jeff Baxter
It’s hard to imagine music fans heading to a concert by a member of the NASA Exploration Systems Advisory Committee.
It’s hard to imagine a guitarist who has consulting contracts with the Pentagon’s Missile Defense Agency.
However, if it’s Jeff “Skunk” Baxter, it makes sense.
Baxter, who will headline a show at City...