Good morning, West Chester.

A house fire in Chester County killed 93-year-old James Snodgrass and injured his 59-year-old son, Robert, when the blaze broke out at 5:30 a.m. Sunday on Taylor Road in Uwchlan Township — neighbors recorded the fire as first responders arrived and assisted in the search for the family’s missing cat.

After filing for bankruptcy last week, Claire’s said that over 1,300 stores may close, including its Chester County location—facing about $500 million in debt as it seeks new strategic partners amid changing consumer trends.

Life’s Patina in Chester Springs is a café and marketplace located in a restored historic boardinghouse — it offers locally sourced baked goods, coffee drinks, and home goods while partnering with local farms to create a unique dining and shopping experience.

A Kennett Square man was charged with first-degree murder after allegedly stabbing a 69-year-old homeowner during an attempted car theft on Sunday evening in Kennett Township — he fled by stealing several vehicles and was later captured at his residence.

Pennsylvania’s independent nonprofit colleges and universities supported about 200,000 jobs and generated $29 billion a year, according to a report by the Association of Independent Nonprofit Colleges and Universities of Pennsylvania—when teaching hospitals are added their combined impact reaches $65 billion, which is about 7% of the state’s economy.

Chester County Commissioners accelerated a $75,000 ARPA grant for the local food bank to address supply needs caused by federal budget cuts, and county employees launched a month-long donation drive.

Officials continue to work with local programs to grow food in community gardens — a plan that helps meet ongoing demands.

The Pennsylvania House passed a bill Monday that provides vital funding for SEPTA while lawmakers urge the Senate to approve a full budget to prevent widespread transit service cuts on August 14.

SEPTA leaders say they are ready to answer lawmakers’ questions as the Senate returns to session Wednesday afternoon — a move aimed at securing the needed funds before the deadline.

Pennsylvania 811 urges residents to call 811 three business days before beginning any digging project — whether for a small installation or a larger construction — to mark underground utilities and prevent costly damage.

90’s Rockfest

7:30-11 p.m. — Uptown Knauer Performing Arts Center — Ticket prices vary — Experience the energetic sound of the 90’s with tribute bands for Stone Temple Pilots, Alanis Morissette, and Weezer.

Healthy Kids Running Series Fall 2025

3:30-4:30 p.m. — East Goshen Township Park — Registration fees apply — A community running program promoting fitness for kids from Pre-K to 8th grade.