Good morning, West Chester.

West Chester is ranked as the third most walkable city in Pennsylvania with a score of 74 (behind Lancaster and Philadelphia) and offers charming brick sidewalks, local shops and public spaces for easy daily errands.

During DSP Recognition Week, The Arc of Chester County honors direct support professionals by recognizing their essential role in supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities — and it urges state leaders to fund these critical services to help address the workforce shortage.

West Chester University students face a housing crisis after their first year when the housing lottery delays on-campus assignments, forcing many to choose costly off-campus rentals.

The university introduced temporary housing at Matlack Court in August to serve as swing-space during deferred repairs while planning additional units.

CCRES experts advise that professionals working with students need to practice patience, empathy, teamwork and self-regulation to succeed with unexpected behaviors.

The nonprofit, which serves schools across Southeastern Pennsylvania, also offers scholarships and grants to support community efforts (a nod to its commitment to educational and behavioral health services).

Ninety students from local high schools have been named semifinalists in the National Merit Scholarship Program — ranking among less than 1% of nationwide seniors.

Conestoga led with 41 semifinalists, while Downingtown and West Chester-area schools added 32 and 14, respectively.

ACME Markets and the YMCA of Greater Brandywine have partnered to host nine flu vaccination clinics across Chester County in September and October, offering shots at community sites (including West Chester Area YMCA on Sept.

28) as residents can register online for appointment times.

Pression Inc. got FDA clearance for its portable Wave PRO external counterpulsation system that replaces a bulky 700-pound machine with a rolling cart.

The Coatesville startup began scaling production at its expanded facility in Chester County with its first unit already in use.

The Pear, housed in a renovated 18th-century general store at 275 Brintons Bridge Road, now serves New American food for lunch, dinner, Saturday brunch and Tuesday to Thursday happy hour (3-5 p.m.).

Owners Nick and Linda Farrell blend Chester County history with global flavors and craft cocktails in their tavern.

Freedom Village at Brandywine offers seniors a lock and leave lifestyle with maintenance free homes, 24/7 security + resort style amenities for worry free living; those interested can call 484-320-3250 to schedule a tour.