Good morning, West Chester.

Gary Smith, longtime head of economic development, was inducted into the Chester County Hall of Fame on Thursday, May 28 at the Phoenixville Foundry.

The award honored his contributions to job growth and regional partnerships since he joined the CCEDC in 1976.

Local motorist Rebecca Panarello observed a seesaw in gas prices (nearly $5 recently falling to around $4) as experts say global factors are affecting local pumps and driving uncertainty among area drivers.

Fifty-three Girl Scouts earned the Gold Award on May 31 at Temple Ambler Learning Center, recognizing their sustained community service and leadership; Willow W. of Norristown received a $5,000 scholarship for her work on reducing period poverty (total service hours exceeded 4,240).

Pennsylvania families have saved more than $10 billion in the PA 529 program that helps fund college, technical schools, and K-12 costs.

State Treasury data shows that over 340,000 accounts hold these funds, and fee cuts have saved account holders more than $22 million over decades.

Pennsylvania lawmakers advanced House Bill 2207 on Monday to raise borrowing limits for agricultural businesses, helping farmers manage rising costs.

The measure, sponsored by Chester representatives (Paul Friel and John Lawrence), now moves to the full House for further debate.

At Duling Kurtz House on 146 S.

Whitford Road (Exton), inspectors on June 10 found refrigeration units above safe temperatures and discarded meats, seafood, dairy, and prepared food. The restaurant must repair its equipment before a reinspection.

Safe Harbor of Chester County has partnered with Kinetic Physical Therapy’s Downingtown branch—donating two fitness classes weekly to help residents experiencing homelessness build strength, lose weight, and boost self-confidence.

The program promotes health and stability as part of holistic support services.

Freedom Village at Brandywine earned a CMS 5-star staffing rating, which means residents get more daily access to registered nurses and skilled nursing care + the result comes after thorough reviews by CMS.

A heat advisory remains in effect today until 8 PM EDT for Western Chester and nearby counties as temperatures push heat index values to 102 degrees.

Showers and thunderstorms — offering relief — are forecast for this afternoon, and residents are urged to stay hydrated and avoid strenuous outdoor activity.

Wayne’s goalkeeper Matt Freese (27) is a frontrunner for the USMNT starting job at the 2026 FIFA World Cup after a strong 2025 Gold Cup run.

He built his career in local youth soccer, the Philadelphia Union academy, and with New York City FC.

Silent Book Club Gathering

9-11 a.m. — Matlack Florist - Garden Center — Free entry — A peaceful space for book lovers to share their literary passions.

Hops for Homes Beer Festival

12-5 p.m. — Chester County Art Association — $45 — Sample craft brews and support affordable housing efforts with Habitat for Humanity.

Summer Kickoff Concert with Lenape Brass

6-7:30 p.m. — Westtown Township Oakbourne Park — Free entry — Celebrate America with a concert featuring classic tunes and tasty hotdogs.

Disney's Moana Jr.

10:30 a.m. — Uptown Knauer Performing Arts Center — $21 – $27 — Experience Moana's journey of courage and self-discovery through unforgettable songs and breathtaking storytelling.

We May Be Right - Billy Joel Tribute

8 p.m. — Uptown Knauer Performing Arts Center — $51 – $61 — Experience the electrifying tribute band that brings the hits of Billy Joel to life with dynamic performances and audience sing-alongs.