Hello, West Chester,
Another glorious morning – which can only mean it’s time to get moving on all things fall. I dragged the kids to Highland Orchards yesterday after school and this weekend we plan on checking out the East Goshen Park Pumpkin Festival, sadly their much-anticipated, new concept playground with zipline is not yet completed, but it’s still a great place for a pumpkin and a hayride. Also on Saturday, the West Chester Y is hosting their healthy Halloween Fest – expect soft pretzels instead of candy and face painting and bounce houses in the gym. And because the kids can’t have all the fun.
So, besides this gorgeous fall weather, what’s there to talk about this week?
West Chester borough manager resigns. After weeks of paid leave Borough Manager Michael Cotter submitted his resignation during Tuesday night’s Borough Council meeting. It was accepted unanimously and council indicated it will soon begin a nationwide search for a replacement.
Bus safety. This week local schools have partnered with PennDot and area police to teach kids about bus safety but the perhaps the most important lesson is for motorists – stop when the school bus is stopped. Parents and pedestrians witnessing a violation are encouraged to take down or snap a picture of the license plate and notify the police.
Have you been a victim of a petty theft? Complaints of stolen signs, missing packages and car break-ins are peppering the forums of Nextdoor. Remember to lock your doors and get to know your neighbors. The best way to avoid these types of crimes is to make it clear there is always someone watching.
Racist pumpkins. After three separate incidents involving racists symbols or language at area schools, including this one involving students posing with pumpkins carved with hate symbols and this one at a West Chester high school, educators are struggling with understanding and addressing racial divides.
Are you guilty of phubbing? The Washington Post reports on new research that suggests our phone use may be hurting our relationships more than we’re aware. Even leaving the phone on the table during a conversation can have a negative effect. I know this is something my husband and I fight about – both claiming the other is the more gratuitous phubber. So why can’t we just put our phones away?
Plus, West Chester Library hosts its book and bulb sale. With fall just coming into its own it may be hard to think spring, but those bright colors will be just what the soul needs after a colorless winter. Plus planting is the perfect excuse to spend a few more hours in the yard.
Have a lovely weekend.