West Chester Weekly News Roundup: Apr. 3, 2026

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It’s Friday, Apr. 3, 2026: Partially eaten muffins in the food prep area, cooked egg rolls held for more than a week, employees washing their hands without soap . . . or water? That’s right, it’s time for Restaurant Inspection reports. Also, we take a look at what’s behind West Chester’s outdoor dining delays, a vape shop opens in a Borough neighborhood and residents are not too happy about it, and has Buddy’s been sold to Five Guys??

And that’s just the half of it. It’s our last update before we take an Easter break—and it’s packed. Read it all now, or bookmark it and come back to it later. Either way, we have things to discuss. Ok, who’s ready? Let’s catch up. 

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Last chance! Reader survey: If you have a moment, please take our reader survey. We have some big plans in the works this year, and we would love to get your thoughts! If you have not yet done so, take a few minutes to share your thoughts on how things are going and what you would like to see more of! Take the survey here.

Café Permit Confusion Delays West Chester Outdoor Dining Season

If you were curious why, as the temps pushed 80 degrees on Tuesday, tables remained pushed against building walls and the Borough’s famed outdoor dining scene has so far been non-existent, it has to do not with changes to Borough laws regulating café permits, but rather their enforcement. West Chester’s outdoor dining season officially runs from Apr. 1 to Nov. 15, but in the past, the Borough has typically looked the other way when a random nice day broke through in March. 

That was not the case this year. 

Hearts You Hold Changing Lives One Request at a Time: 3 Things Needed This Month

Hearts You Hold supports migrants, immigrants, refugees, and asylees in a concrete material way, by taking the time to ask them what they need. HYH, a Vermont-based nonprofit, has many requests from people all over the USA. Please consider funding one (or more!) of these life-changing requests.  

You can help by funding critical things like baby wipes for Giacomina in NY, a jacket for Marito in Ohio, or a mattress for Ara in Chicago. These are examples of requests waiting to be funded on our request page.

Due to the generosity of donors like you, we have funded 3,483 requests since we founded this nonprofit!  

Thank you for considering this opportunity to make a difference!

**This is a sponsored post.**

West Chester Restaurant Inspection Reports Out for April

11 Restaurants out of compliance this month, with violations ranging from 2 to 24.

The Warnings.

Chester County Director of Voter Services resigns. In a move that has been pushed for by many ever since the Election Day ballot-book fiasco that left more than 75,000 independent voters off the voter rolls, Director of Voter Services Karen Barsoum announced she is resigning from her position. No reason was given for the resignation other than to say it was “the right time.” In a letter to staff, she said she will stay on for one more election to “ensure a smooth transition.” Her last day will be June 12, pending certification.

Go around if you can: Construction updates. 

• Goshen Road. Starting this week and continuing through at least mid-month, Goshen Road will be closed daily from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. for restoration, milling, and paving.

• Gay Street. Construction is continuing on Gay Street with road closures at Church and High St.

• 202 and 926. Also ongoing are the intersection improvements underway at U.S. 202 (Wilmington Pike) and Route 926 (Street Road). Those are expected to continue at least through Apr. 16. Expect weekday lane closures and flagging while construction continues.

Pack extra tissues. Record temps are impacting tree pollen season. According to experts, this season’s warm, dry, sunny weather can lead to a high pollen count and a subsequent spike in allergy and asthma symptoms. However, if the rain picks up, it could help lessen the effects. 

Energy prices are going up. PECO is seeking a double-digit increase on both gas and electricity rates beginning next year - a gutsy request, considering earnings nearly doubled after last year’s hikes. 

The Sunshine Report.

Summer Part-time Jobs Get a Pay Boost. Junior Counselor Wages Double to $15/Hour. West Goshen Township is now recruiting for its summer recreation program, and this year, the position comes with a notable bump in pay. Junior Counselors will earn a minimum of $15.00 per hour, while Head Counselors can make up to $30.00 per hour depending on experience.

According to information provided by the Township, summer counselor wages for 2026 are as follows:

• Junior Counselors (ages 16–17): $15/hour (previously $7.25/hour)

• Counselors (18+): $17–$20/hour, depending on experience (previously $15/hour)

• Head Counselors (18+): $20–$30/hour, depending on experience (previously $20/hour)

These part-time positions involve supervising and engaging children in activities ranging from sports and games to crafts and field trips throughout the summer. This is a solid opportunity for younger residents looking for summer employment and a sign that the Township is aiming to make these roles more competitive and attractive.

The wage increases were approved as part of the Township’s 2026 budget. While the updated pay structure is now being used to recruit applicants, a review of budget discussions does not appear to reflect a specific public discussion outlining these changes.

Spring Clean Out Opportunity. West Goshen Township is hosting a Free Electronics Recycling and Shred Event on Saturday, April 11, from 9 a.m. to noon at the Township Building. Residents can safely dispose of old electronics: computers, TVs, printers, and even small household appliances, while also taking advantage of on-site document shredding. 

A few quick notes:

• Shredding is for paper only and open to area residents (no businesses)

• All shredded material is fully recycled

• Items containing freon (like AC units or dehumidifiers) will not be accepted

Have those long-retired Wii and Xbox controllers tucked in a drawer somewhere? The ones missing a battery cover? Tax returns older than seven years? Time to let them go.

More information on the open positions and how to apply here. 

Keep shining! —Margie

Hello.

Goodbye.

The Accolades.

Earlier this week, “news” broke: Buddy’s Burgers, Breasts, and Fries, the Chester County burger chain with a location on W. Gay St., was sold to Five Guys. According to a press release posted to the company’s social media, all locations are to transition to Five Guys restaurants over the next few months. 

“We are thrilled to pass the torch on to Five Guys, a company that shares our dedication to quality and service,” Buddy’s Burgers founder Jim “Buddy” Thompson said in a statement. 

Also on Wednesday, parking ticketing spiked around the Borough as a number of orange violation notices were spotted in addition to the Borough’s traditional printed tickets. There was also ketchup gelato being sold at Gemilli, and a beet-and-coconut dog treat latte available at Gryphon.

The latte, however, was only enjoyed by one unlucky barista, and the ketchup gelato has a backstory but fortunately no immediate freezer space, and the orange tickets? Well, they didn’t come with a payment link, but rather a coupon for a free Dia Doce coffee or cupcake. 

“If you found an orange ticket, don’t panic, just come in to redeem a treat on us!” the sweet shop shared on social media, ending the post with #aprilfools. The masterminds behind the Buddy’s prank were even subtler. Outside the date, the only nod that something was off was the PR rep with the email [email protected].

“You got us,” wrote staff from the West Chester Chronicle, who prematurely shared the “news.” 

Other things we are celebrating this week. 

Sharing the joy of reading. Last month, Henderson Senior Katelyn Orkin organized a literacy event for the ages. It included 12 hands-on literacy stations, with arts and crafts and phonics-based games, seven local authors doing readings, and more than 200 kids and parents getting hooked on books—including Katelyn’s. Yes, she even wrote her own book for the project. Read more about the Girl Scouts Gold Award project that proved a winner for all here.

Making history fun. Katelyn’s not the only one going out of her way to help instill a lifelong love of learning. The Chester County History Center recently received an Excellence in Innovation and Museum Programming Award from PA Museums for its True Crime on Trial series. The series, created by CCHC Director of Education Jennifer Green, helps connect audiences with local history using elements of storytelling and crowd participation. Attendees serve as “jurors” on a real Chester County case. The next one is taking place on Apr. 21 at Victory Brewing Company, if you want to check it out for yourself. Just kidding, that one’s sold out. There are, however, tickets available for the May 18 trial. That one takes place in Exton.

Having someone care about your papers. Last month, former State Senator and WCU professor Andy Dinniman donated a collection of 50 filled boxes to the university library, including work detailing his early political positions, his time at West Chester University, and his 14-year service in the state senate. There were also accolades, awards, photos, and signed books among the works. To me, that seems like a lot. To the director of the WCU Libraries Special Collections, Ron McColl, they are a gift. “The papers are voluminous, and we are lucky to have them,” he told Daily Local News reporter Bill Rettew. You can read more about the collection here. 

Serving up the first loss of the season. Congratulations to the Rustin Boys Lacrosse team, which handed previously undefeated Avon Grove its first loss of the season on Wednesday. The Golden Knights took the game 11 to 6.

Miss Basketball. Shoutout this week to East freshman Kayla Holman, who has made the 2026 Miss PA Basketball ballot. She is joined locally by Westtown teammates Jordyn Palmer and Atlee Vanesko. You can help these local girls earn a spot in the top 50 by voting for them here. 

Most clicked. Last week’s most-clicked story was about the house fire in East Goshen. I think it was the photos that did it. 

Pay it Forward.

The Single Mother’s Conference returns for a 14th time on April 11, and that is clearly not enough.

“One in five Chester County households with children under 18 is headed by a single mother,” said Conference Chair Guillermina Rios. “That’s more than 13,000 children being raised without a father present,” she added. 

The event, which is free to all single mothers and their children, offers moms a day of classes, community, and pampering.

“[Single] moms deserve education and encouragement to succeed as parents, employees, and members of their communities. This conference provides the environment for moms to do just that,” said Guillermina.

Doors open at 8:30 a.m. Breakfast and childcare are provided for all attendees. There are also snacks, a catered lunch, educational talks, and free pampering. In the afternoon, there are Community Connections and the presentation of the Belinda Harrison Award, the only award in Chester County that recognizes an outstanding single mother.

If you are interested in attending this year’s conference or know someone who may be, registration is open until Apr. 8. They are also looking for volunteers to help at the event. Information on both can be found here. 

Other ways to give back this week: 

Share-a-Bear. I love this, and I’m sorry I didn’t hear of it sooner, but for a month, the Rotary Passport Club of West Chester collected teddy bears to give to organizations such as the West Goshen Police Department to have on hand when they go on calls involving kids. This collection effort is unfortunately done, but I am sure there are plenty of other organizations that wouldn’t mind a teddy bear surprise.

Sign up to clean a block. West Chester Borough is hosting its annual Community Clean Up on April 19. If you live in the Borough, you can sign up for a street here. Then stop by Borough Hall between noon and 1 p.m. to grab your clean-up kit and a thank you gift from the mayor. If you live outside the Borough, maybe just make a mental note to do a sweep of the block? I don’t know if it’s because of all that snow, but there seems like a lot of litter lying around.

Support a local artist. Sure, it’s easier to have Amazon bring it all, but it’s so much more meaningful when it’s one of a kind. The Chester County Art Association has restocked its ShopArt showroom with an assortment of spring finds from dozens of local artists. Yes, it’s a stop, but it’s only one. 

The Freakin’ Weekend.

What are you up to this weekend? We are planning to head across the street for the annual First Presbyterian Easter Egg Hunt. I’ve read some horror stories about egg hunts this year, but they always do such an excellent job. There will be no issue next week as we are giving ourselves a much-needed spring break.

If you are around this weekend, don’t forget it is 1st Friday in the Borough. Stores will be open late, and street parking will be free. Also, tonight D’Ascenzo’s Gelato reopens for the season. Looking for weekend treats? Yori’s has your egg cakes, Kilwins has your chocolate bunnies, La Baguette Magique has your tarts (one of the Meyer lemon and lavender, please), and the West Chester Grower’s Market is here for everything else. 

Happy Easter and/or Passover to those who celebrate—and fingers-crossed, at least a partially gorgeous spring weekend for us all.

Also, a special thanks to this week’s Community Sponsor, Shankweiler & Co. Real Estate and Renovations. Cassie & Jamie Shankweiler, the husband-and-wife team behind Shankweiler & Co. | Real Estate & Renovations, are deeply rooted in their West Chester Community. As borough residents of 10+ years, the couple is passionate about making the borough a great place to live by creating community and partnering with local businesses. As licensed real estate agents and experienced contractors, they offer clients unique guidance whether they're looking to buy/sell real estate or renovate their home. If you are looking to renovate your home or relocate in 2026, reach out to Cassie to start a conversation today: (484) 888-6772.

View a list of all our amazing Community Sponsors here.

Business leaders: Want exclusive access to this amazing community? Of course, you do. There are only three spots an issue so each one gets a lot of attention, and from what I hear, responses. Placements are filled first come- first served. Send me an email if you are interested.

Mark Your Calendars:

• Apr. 3-5 - Goshen Fire Company: Spring Flower Sale, Station 56, Boot & Greenhill Rds. Choose from potted plants, hanging plants, and more.  

• Apr. 4 - West Chester Growers Market, corner of Church and Chestnut, 10 a.m. - noon.

• Apr. 4 - First Presbyterian Easter Egg Hunt, Everhart Park, 10 a.m. This is a free community event.  

• Apr. 4 - Easter Bunny Express, West Chester Historic Railroad, 10 a.m., 12 p.m. or 2 p.m. Hop aboard the West Chester Railroad Easter Bunny Express for a festive 90-minute round-trip adventure from West Chester to Glen Mills and back. Features live music and an appearance by the Easter Bunny. Tickets: $35/adults; $30/kids; $15 toddlers

• Apr. 6 - Chair Yoga, West Chester Public Library, 10 -10:45 a.m. Chair yoga is an all-inclusive practice that uses a chair as a supportive tool in modified yoga poses. Registration recommended. Walk-ins welcome as long as space allows. 

• Apr. 6 - Valley Forge Audubon Society Presents: All About Owls, West Chester Public Library, 3:30 -4:30 p.m. Open to grades 6 - 12. And sorry, there will be no live owls in the library. Registration required. 

• Apr. 7 - Teen/Tween Tuesday: Using Pastels, West Chester Public Library, 4:30 - 6 p.m. Open to ages 11 - 18. Registration required. 

• Apr. 8 - How the Body Works, West Chester Public Library, 4:30 - 5:30 p.m. This 10-week program exploring how the body works is open to kids ages 8 to 13. This is session 6 - Bones and Muscles. Registration is required for each class and opens a week before.

• Apr. 8 - WCU Live! Presents: Tamagawa Drumming, WCU Emilie K. Asplundh Hall, 7:30 p.m. Nearly 30 drummers and dancers from Tamagawa University, Japan, make a return appearance on our campus for an athletic and graceful performance. Tickets: $20.75 - 28, depending on location.  

• Apr. 9 - 12, Henry V, WCU Theatre, E.O. Bull Center for the Arts, 7:30 p.m. There will also be a matinee showing on 2 p.m. on Sunday. Come see one of Shakespeare’s most celebrated heroes in a story of leadership, courage, and transformation. Tickets: $12.50 – $23

• Apr. 10 - Trivia Night, Virtual, 7 - 8 p.m. Sponsored by the West Chester Public Library. Join for an hour of trivia online. Registration required. 

• Apr. 11 - 14th annual Chester County Single Mothers’ Conference, Oscar Lasko YMCA, 8:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. The event includes free child care, breakfast, snacks, and a catered lunch. There will also be workshops on careers, homeownership, and relationships and complimentary several self-care activities like massages and facials. This event is free to all single mothers and their children. Registration required.

That’s it. Stay safe, stay happy, and thanks to everyone who helped make this week’s issue possible. I’ll see you next week!

This newsletter has been edited by Victoria Rose, Flickering Words: Copy editing. Substantive editing. Proofreading. Content writing. Technical editing. Contact her at [email protected] or @VictoriaRoseEdits to learn more.

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