Good morning, West Chester.

Local firefighters from Longwood, Kennett and Po-Mar-Lin fire companies were honored with the William H.

Pop Winters Award for lifesaving efforts when they rescued a young boy from a house fire last November — the honor recognizes their bravery and dedication to community service.

YMCA of Greater Brandywine is spending $2 million to upgrade its centers across Chester County with new strength equipment at every branch.

Improvements at sites like Jennersville, Kennett Area, West Chester and Lionville include an outdoor pavilion with pickleball courts, updated childcare rooms and a new pool scheduled to open next summer—reflecting community feedback.

Yesterday, The Arc of Chester County honored Giant Market Store 6291 in East Bradford as its 2025 Employer of the Year for its strong commitment to inclusive hiring practices during National Disability Employment Awareness Month (award recognized dedicated employees including John, Marc, and Laura). This honor highlights the company's leadership in creating a diverse, welcoming workplace.

West Chester University and Cheyney University recorded enrollment increases amid a modest statewide boost after a tuition raise in June—West Chester University rose 1.2 percent while Cheyney University jumped nearly 38 percent, marking the first such gain in over a decade.

The YMCA of Greater Brandywine is hiring part-time mentors for its BASE program to support elementary students at sites on the Upper Main, Kennett Area and Coatesville in Chester County; work shifts are from 7:00 to 9:00 a.m. before school and 3:00 to 6:00 p.m. after school with pay ranging from $15 to $20 per hour + candidates need a high school diploma and at least two years of experience with children.

Congresswoman Chrissy Houlahan of Chester County, a former Air Force reservist, criticized Pete Hegseth’s call to set all combat roles to the highest male standard at a Downingtown town hall — she said the proposal could limit opportunities for women in military service.

After a federal order required SEPTA to inspect all 225 Silverliner IV cars within 30 days following five fires, only about a dozen cars were reviewed since inspections began last week—SEPTA GM Scott Sauer said the agency will ramp up staff training as union contract talks, which could lead to a strike, continue ahead of next month’s deadline.

The Pennsylvania House of Representatives passed House Bill 145 Tuesday that allows striking workers to receive unemployment benefits after a one-week wait, providing income support during labor disputes.

The bill now moves to the state Senate for further consideration.

Henrietta Hankin Branch Library in Chester Springs will host Professor Jack Nagel on Oct.

30 from 6-7:30 PM to discuss Electoral College reform and the National Popular Vote Interstate Compact—Pennsylvania’s 209 pledged votes may play a key role in the effort.

Jake’s Bar in West Chester was named one of the best dive bars in Pennsylvania by East Coast Traveler on NewsBreak today—boasting dollar beers, neon signs, and no-nonsense bartenders that appeal to college students and local regulars since 1938 by founder Jake Nastase.

The bar offers an old-school vibe that continues to draw diverse crowds.

On October 8, the Phillies beat the Dodgers 8-2 in Game 3 of the NL Division Series, with Schwarber hitting two home runs — his towering shot cleared the pavilion and snapped an 0-for-8 streak.

Philadelphia Eagles defensive tackle Jalen Carter is not playing in the Giants game because of a heel injury.

A frost advisory & freeze warning are in effect for parts of PA and NJ with temperatures dropping as low as 29 and 33 degrees, urging residents to cover sensitive outdoor plants.

West Chester Chili Cook-Off 2025

12-4 p.m. — Downtown West Chester PA — Free entry — Experience a flavorful showdown with great food, live music, and friendly competition.

13th Annual Unite For HER Run/Walk

9-11 a.m. — Downtown West Chester PA — $30 – $60 — Come together to support breast and ovarian cancer patients through community run/walk efforts.

West Chester French: Café and Conversation

11 a.m. – 1 p.m. — Panera Bread — Free entry — Indulge in French culture with conversation, wine, cheese, and chocolate tastings.

West Chester Halloween Parade

5-8 p.m. — West Chester Railroad — $50 – $80 — Celebrate Halloween with a train ride featuring live music, games, and spooky fun.

West Chester Halloween Parade 2025

1 p.m. — Downtown West Chester PA — Free — Celebrate Halloween with costumes, candy stations, and local performances at this family-friendly parade.

Throwdown Thursdays at Más

9-11:45 p.m. — Más Mexicali Cantina — $4 Miller Lites and $10 Marg Pitchers — Enjoy line dancing with Boot Scootin Becky and perfect your moves on the dance floor.

Fall Colors Hike for Kids

11 a.m. — Oakbourne Mansion & Park — $12 per child — Engage in a family-friendly adventure blending exploration and education for children ages 3-8.

West Chester Veteran's Day Parade 2025

2 p.m. — Downtown West Chester PA — Free entry — Celebrate and honor veterans with a festive parade through the heart of West Chester.