West Chester Weekly News Roundup: Apr. 4, 2025

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It’s Friday, Apr. 4, 2025: Happy Friday! We have made it. This week, it’s Restaurant Inspection reports for March and tales of moldy strawberries, hot dogs left out, and abandoned Dunkin’ equipment. 15 restaurants and institutions were out of compliance this month. Plus, the ripple effects of Chester County Food Bank’s federal funding cuts, a new cafe is coming to Gay St., and goodbye Arthur Hall, the long-serving West Chester company, and generous event sponsor, is being sold.

Plus, spring sports highlights, missing horses, and a questionable move by West Goshen Township to destroy its video records is thwarted by residents. Ok, get comfortable and let’s catch up. 

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West Chester Restaurants Inspection Reports for March

It’s a weird one this month. We have 15 food establishments out of compliance with the Chester County Health Department for March including two McDonald’s, five downtown favorites, several Amish Market stands, Highland Orchards, and a local elementary school. We also have a gas station with a questionable bathroom situation and holding onto the Dunkin’ supplies circa 2022, moldy strawberries, and some hot dogs that should probably be tossed. 

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The Warnings.

This message will self-destruct in 5, 4, 3, 2… Early this week, West Goshen Township attempted to quietly pass Resolution No. 14, which would have set a new standard for how long the Township maintained content on its YouTube channel. According to the proposed ordinance, the channel was created for “the purpose of livestreaming Board of Supervisor public meetings,” and as such the Township announced it would be maintaining the videos for the absurdly short period of three months. Fortunately (and not surprisingly), the agenda item was caught by the eagle eyes of Margie Swart, who runs the West Goshen Sunshine Facebook page. “WHAT ARE THEY THINKING?!?!?! IT COSTS NOTHING TO KEEP  VIDEOS ON YOUTUBE YET THEY WISH TO ERASE FOREVER..” she shouted on Friday before encouraging her followers to attend Tuesday’s meeting and speak out against the policy. 

There is a cost, of course. It’s just not monetary and doesn’t come from keeping the videos. It comes to the public record when the videos are removed. In her comments to the Township Supervisors on Tuesday, Margie shared how she recently used the videos to research the promises made to the township by Greystone developers. She reviewed the minutes from the session in question and also rewatched the video, and while the minutes were thorough, they missed some important details.

“The meeting minutes are outstanding, but because they are not required to be verbatim, oftentimes valuable information may not be readily available without the Township’s YouTube Channel,” she said. Don’t worry, this mission has a happy ending. 

“Your posts, emails, and attendance at the meeting made a difference! Our voices were heard, loud and clear. The proposed resolution did not move forward,” Margie shared after the meeting. Want to see for yourself? You can watch the meeting here.

You put your cart before your horse. On Monday, Axios Philadelphia reporter Isaac Avillucea reported that FarmerJawn owner Christa Barfield was hit with a cease-and-desist order from the state after soliciting donations but failing to register any part of her company as a nonprofit. According to the article, the company has been accepting money through the “FarmerJawn and Friends Foundation Fund’ but this fund was never registered as a charity with the state. In September, Christa was told she could no longer accept donations through the fund. However, it appears she still does, and the fund is still not registered. Christa and FarmerJawn currently manage the Westtown School’s 123-acre organic farm. No mention of whether that entity is impacted by the actions.    

Warning, your charges just got elevated. Last month, West Chester Police responded to a report of a domestic disturbance on S. Matlack St. The assailant was taken into custody for an assault against a family member. It was later learned that the suspect had attempted to stab the victim with a kitchen knife and the charges were elevated to attempted homicide. 

Beware of potholes. First, it was coyotes, then sinkholes, now it’s potholes. On Sunday, West Goshen Police posted the following warning on Facebook: “There are numerous large potholes in the area of the southbound Route 100 Spur, heading toward Route 202.  We have been experiencing an increase of damaged tires and rims as a result of these potholes.”

Fortunately, PennDOT maintenance crews are out in force this week, working to repair “deteriorated pavement” (cough) potholes (cough) on more than 60 state highways, including a few in our area. Crews were in West Goshen on U.S. 202 and Route 100 (Pottstown Pike). Just in time too, “They better be fixing the potholes…. Just hit one this morning, almost blew a tire,” one user commented on Facebook. 

Everyone duck and cover. This week, Westtown East Goshen Regional Police put the community on alert - Senior Assassin is back for 2025. Started roughly 15 years ago, the game involving high school seniors with water guns, offing each other in an attempt to be the last student standing, is going strong. As the police so succinctly put it, think of it as hide and seek with water guns. 

“Because the game involves a certain degree of hiding and sneaking around… every year we inevitably get calls reporting suspicious subjects that turn out to be students playing the game,” WEGO Police shared in a Facebook post. They go on to say they do not condone the practice and offer a series of reminders for participants, including don’t trespass on other people’s property, avoid anything that could be mistaken for an actual weapon, and if you see the police coming, don’t run. Just explain what you are doing and cooperate if asked to stop. 

Mini horse on the loose. This week, WEGO police also responded to calls of an escaped pony on 202 and then found her a forever home. Don’t believe me? You can find the CBS3 coverage of the incident here. 

The Accolades.

Spring is upon us, and it seems a few here in West Chester came out of their winter hibernations swinging. Looking to catch a game in the sunshine? Here are a few sports teams to keep an eye on as the temperature and action rise. 

Teams to watch:

West Chester University Women’s Lacrosse, 10-0 - currently ranked 1st in the PSAC and 1st in the nation. It’s been another impressive year for the Golden Rams, who continue to rack up wins in a talent-laden conference. On Monday, the women learned they were the new number one team in the country, selected by both the coaches and USA Lacrosse Magazine. Then on Wednesday, they calmly added another W to the win column with a tough 13-11, on-the-road victory over ninth-ranked East Stroudsburg. Players to watch: WCU’s Kerri Barnett currently ranks among the top five goal scorers in all of Division II play.  

When to watch: Saturday, 1 p.m. at home vs. Bloomsburg

Henderson Girls’ Lacrosse, 6-1 - currently ranked 5th in the District, 15th in the Philadelphia region. The Warriors, undefeated through Thursday, showed this week that they not only have talent but they have determination. Sluggish and down at half against a solid Downingtown East team, the girls dug in and launched a spirited comeback. They held the Cougars scoreless in the fourth quarter while adding four points of their own to grab the come-from-behind win 13-10. Unfortunately, the streak ended yesterday afternoon with a tough loss to Bishop Shanahan, but don’t worry, the girls will be back.  Players to watch: Kendall Brandon, Mary Kate Killoran, and Bailey Schalleur.

When to watch: April 8 at home against Downingtown West. 

West Chester University Baseball, 23-5 - currently ranked 2nd in the PSAC, 10th in the Country. After a strong start, the Golden Rams faltered a little towards the end of March, dropping two games to East Stroudsburg. They have since recovered, winning their last eight and breaking into the NCAA Division II Top 10. Players to watch: The pitching staff has dominated with four pitchers already earning PSAC East Pitcher of the Week honors. 

When to watch: Saturday, 1 p.m. or 3:30 p.m. - WCU will close a four-game series against Shippensburg with an afternoon double-header at home. 

Rustin Boys’ Baseball, 5-0 - currently ranked 5th in the District. Their only loss this season came during the preseason opener, a tight match against a tough Haverford team. Fortunately for the Golden Knights, it doesn’t go against their official record. They are currently undefeated and ranked 5th in the District. A few tough games next week including at Great Valley, at Unionville, and home against Henderson will test their resolve. 

When to watch: Today at 4 p.m. at home against Avon Grove. 

Rustin Girls’ Softball, 6-0 - currently ranked 3rd in the District. It was hard to find much info about this group online but let’s just say they are rolling. With a 7-6 comeback win over cross-Borough rival East, a 15-0 whopping of Kennet, and a big win last week against Downingtown East, the Golden Knights hope they now have your attention. 

When to watch: Monday at home versus Great Valley.

Rustin Girls’ Track. It’s still early in the spring track season, but the Rustin girls are wasting no time making their mark. On Thursday, the lady Knights won the Chestmont American Championship for the fifth year in a row. Athletes to watch: Senior thrower Ana Dakes, junior runner Sophia Hnetinka, and high jumper Aoife Speer-Gibson.

Other things we are celebrating this week: 

Heart of gold. Shout out this week to Greystone Kindergarten teacher Nina McGlinchery. Nina was announced as one of this year’s Citadel Heart of Learning Award recipients. In a post on Facebook, WCASD congratulated Nina and commended her for creating a “warm, welcoming environment where students and families feel at home from day one.” 

“Her dedication to educating and inspiring not only her students but also her colleagues makes her truly exceptional,” they added. Way to go, Nina!   

Easter inclusivity. This year, West Chester Borough and local groups are working to ensure all kids have a chance to experience and enjoy a little egg collecting.  

West Chester Borough will host its annual Easter Egg Hunt next Saturday at 10 a.m. in  Everhart Park. This year, more than 6000 eggs are being stuffed and scattered, of which a portion will be reserved for a new sensory-sensitive area. 

“We are introducing new elements to the Egg Hunt this year that will provide sensory-specific areas for children who maybe don’t enjoy the large crowds,” said West Chester Park and Rec Director Keith Kurowski. 

While all the details are still being worked out, sensitive kiddos can enjoy their egg finding time in the chill “sensory zone,” where there will be scent exploration, tactile activities, and brown noise muting ambient screams. Kids can further mute noise with the provided headphones. 

“The objective is to make sure ALL children can have fun and enjoy this traditional event,” Keith said. The sensory egg hunt will begin at 10:30 a.m.

West Chester First Presbyterian Church is also keeping accessibility in mind for its annual Easter event. This time, however, it’s mobility. A portion of the Easter Egg Hunt will be wheelchair and mobility equipment-friendly. The First Pres event will take place at 10 a.m. on April 19 in Everhart Park.

25 years. A big round of applause to the Painted Plate, which is celebrating 25 years on Market St. The paint-your-own pottery studio opened in 2000. “One of our absolute favorite places to exercise our creative minds!” one fan shared after hearing the news on social media. 

Referees. At this point, I’ve been to enough games to know you don’t go into reffing for the glory, and often the recognition you get is not the positive kind. So, when I saw this story about West Chester University alumnus and college wrestling official, Jeff Cook, I thought it warranted repeating. After dedicating three decades to officiating, including at some of the sport's biggest collegiate competitions, Jeff will be inducted into the PA Wrestling Hall of Fame later this month. Maybe, in honor of Jeff, if you get a chance, thank a ref this weekend? (Don’t worry, you can continue to argue their calls under your breath.)  

Know someone who should be recognized? Send me an email at [email protected].

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Pay it Forward.

This week, Chester County Food Bank received a notice from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the agency had cancelled a $250,000 food order placed through the Emergency Food Assistance Program. According to a post on the CCFB blog, the order included deliveries of cheese, pork, chicken, and eggs and was to be used to feed the county’s poorest. 

“This food was destined for our most vulnerable neighbors whose income is 185% of the federal poverty level or less,” the post states. 

The cuts are among the latest to hit the USDA. Also cut last month were funds to the Local Food for Schools Cooperative Agreement and the Local Food Purchase Assistance Cooperative Agreement, both of which pay local farmers to provide fresh food to food banks and schools. In a statement to USA Today, USDA officials described the cuts as part of a "return to long-term, fiscally responsible initiatives." 

Unfortunately, they come at a tough time for local families and agencies. 

“We are currently experiencing a cost-of-living crisis in Chester County and Southeastern Pennsylvania,” said CCFB CEO Andrea Youndt. “We need more support now, not less.”

If the cuts continue, CCFB could lose upwards of $1 million worth of food from the USDA this year.

West Chester Food Cupboard is also feeling the strain. According to their records, volume grew by 30 percent last year and is on pace to grow another 30 percent this year, with food costs expected to rise 40 percent. 

“WCFC does not get any direct government support,” WCFC Vice President Joe Fratinardo shared in an email.  “However, we receive about 15 percent of the food we distribute from the [Chester County Food Bank] free of charge. The impacts to the Food Bank will impact us,” he added. 

Combined, the agencies distribute over six million pounds of food to 45,000 Chester County residents each year.

“The cancellation of these orders is going to have a significant impact on our operations, and they couldn’t come at a worse time,” Andrew added. 

If you would like to help, CCFB is asking supporters to contact federal lawmakers and urge them to rescind the decision. Donations are also welcome. (Chester County Food Bank | West Chester Food Cupboard)

Protest planned this weekend. A “Hands Off” protest is being planned for Saturday from 1 to 2 p.m. at the Historic Chester County Courthouse on High St.. The event, organized locally by Indivisible Chester County, Chester County Marching Forward, Way Forward, and others, is part of a national protest movement opposing recent Federal policies including the defunding of agency programs. According to Newsweek, the phrase is meant literally and organizers are encouraging Americans to peacefully take to the streets in opposition to the cuts, price hikes, and attempts to slash programs like Medicaid and Social Security. 

Other ways to give back. 

Add a few more items to the grocery list this weekend. West Chester Food Cupboard is seeking donations of canned meat and fish, cereal, peanut butter, jelly, canned fruit, soups, and personal items like soap, toothpaste, toilet paper, and feminine products. 

The Freakin’ Weekend.

What are you up to this weekend? If the rain holds off, I might head downtown for the Easter Egg Hunt. I think a little mindless fun and some gelato are just what this Friday calls for! 

If you would like to join me downtown, Blink is hosting a spring Stock Up sale, the more you buy, the more you save, DrkMttr has 25% off all regular priced items all weekend in honor of its first anniversary, and Bookmarks is handing mystery gifts with purchase as part of First Friday fun. Gemelli has spring in a gelato, Dolce Zola has spring in a pasta, and Roots has a new French toast dish I am dying to try.  

Looking for something more active? West Chester Public Library is hosting trivia night tonight. You play at home so rain, if it comes, won’t be a problem. Registration is required. Then on Saturday, West Goshen Park and Rec is showing “Short Movies” in West Goshen Community Park. The event is free, but a donation for the West Chester Food Cupboard is encouraged. Also, for those who celebrate, it’s the start of trout season.

This week, we welco_me a new Community Sponsor! A special thanks to First Presbyterian Church. Located at 130 W. Miner St., they are a family-oriented church that cares for little ones and their parents all the way through to the end stages of life. A community-oriented church, they are energized and excited by all the ways they have been able to impact West Chester. Visit their website to learn more or join them on Sundays in fellowship and worship.

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. 4 – West Chester’s Adult Easter Egg Hunt, Downtown West Chester, 5 p.m. – 7 p.m. Search for prize -filled Easter eggs along the streets and in the businesses. Expect adult appreciated prizes like shop discounts and gift cards.

• Apr. 5 – Cherry Blossom Festival D.C. Bus Trip, Depart from 401 E. Gay St., 8 a.m. West Chester Borough is making a bus trip to Washington D.C.’s Cherry Blossom festival. Bus leaves from Borough Hall at 8 a.m. and departs D.C. at 4:30 p.m. Enjoy a guided tour, explore the Tidal Basin, and take in the stunning views of the monuments framed by colorful petals. Trip cost: $60.

• Apr. 5 – Spring Yard Sale, West Goshen Township, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.  For more information or to register as a participating vendor, visit here.

• Apr. 5 – Chestnut Street Garage Community Cleanup, Chestnut Street Garage, 9 a.m. If you can help, sign up here.

• Apr. 5 – West Chester Grower’s Market, corner of Church & Chestnut Sts, 10 a.m. to Noon

• Apr. 5 – MonoPrint Mania, The Corner Art Collective, 10 a.m. – noon. Hands-on, in-person silicone gel plate monoprinting. For more information and to register email [email protected].

• Apr. 5 – Short Movies, West Goshen Community Park, 8 p.m. West Goshen Park and Recreation Department will partner with the West Chester Film Festival to show an evening of independent short family films. This is a free event but attendees are encouraged to bring a dry good item for the West Chester Food Cupboard.

• Apr. 7- Monarch Butterfly Presentation, West Goshen Township Building, 6 p.m. In 2022, the beloved Monarch butterfly was listed as an endangered species. In 2022, the beloved Monarch butterfly was listed as an endangered species.  Bonus: comes with host plants for garden. Click here to register.

• Apr. 12 – Keep East Goshen Beautiful Day, East Goshen Township Building, 8 – 10 a.m. Join your neighbors for a couple hours of trash collecting. Gloves, bags, and vests will be provided.

• Apr. 12 – Free Electronics Recycling and Shred Event, West Goshen Township Municipal Complex, 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. Document shredding plus recycle hard drives, CPUs, TVs, monitors, printers, computer accessories and any small appliance with a plug.

• Apr. 12 – West Chester Egg Hunt, Everhart Park, 10 a.m. This event is free and open to the public. Hunt starts precisely at 10 a.m.

• Apr. 12 – Westtown Township Egg Hike, Oakbourne Park Pavilion, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. Westtown residents only. Registration required for this popular event. 

• Apr. 12 – Egg Hunt and Decorated Hat Parade, West Goshen Community Park, 10:30 a.m. West Goshen residents only. Registration required. Children 9 and under are invitedt to participate in the egg hunt.

• Apr. 12 – Skate-A-Rama, Ice Line, 700 Lawrence Dr., 11 a.m. Join the West Goshen Police and Ice Line for a free open skate event.

• Apr. 12 – Pets on the Patio, Chester County Art Association, 100 N. Bradford Ave., 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. Join us for an unforgettable day of fun! Adopt a lovable pet, explore incredible local art, groove to live music, and experience a stunning gallery show. Perfect for the whole family.

• Apr. 13 – Grand Opening Party, The Bookhouse at Faunbrook, 1 – 4 p.m. Meet the team, tour the newly renovated home, enter to win a free stay. RSVP requested.

Reader tip: If you have trouble with these emails going to spam or promotions, reply to this email. Nothing particular, even a random letter will do, but that should keep them coming to the inbox.

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!

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