West Chester Weekly News Roundup: Feb. 14, 2025

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It’s Friday, Feb. 14, 2025: Depending on how you celebrate - Happy Valentine’s Day! Happy Galentine’s Day! or Happy Parade Day! I have a fun one this week chock-full of little developments from eight “human-scale” townhomes planned for W. Washington St. to the cutest 10-room boutique lodgings on Rosedale Ave. Also, Super Bowl aftermath - there were surprisingly few arrests - a wild Family Fued story, and a new entranceway planned for Marshall Square Park.

Who’s ready? Let’s catch up.

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Book Lovers, Unite. Charming New Hotel is Set to Draw Bibliophiles Far and Wide

Despite being a fan of the town for living, which I clearly am, I was never convinced of its appeal as a destination. Sure, if you’re in town visiting family or hitting up a graduation, there is plenty to entertain you. But, come with no prior obligation? Of that I wasn’t so sure. Now, I think maybe the case can be made.  

The Warnings.

Outstanding rental fees are due yesterday. After two years of negligence, the Borough is no longer messing around when it comes to outstanding rental fees. In late January, they sent out 760 letters for unpaid rental permit fees for 2023 and 2024 with a payment due date of Feb. 1. So far, $22,138 has been collected with roughly $55,000 still outstanding. Property owners have until Mar. 1 to settle up or they could face a revocation of their rental license. 

“We are trying to get through these as quickly as possible,” Finance Director Barb Lionti told Borough Council Members on Wednesday. 

There have been reports of property owners having trouble getting ahold of Building and Housing personnel. If you are one of them, know this backlog is recognized. Two new employees have started with the department and assurances have been made that all requests for assistance will be answered before additional measures are taken. 

“We are not going to revoke licenses until we have done our due diligence and answered emails, but I do want to have a deadline on this,” said Barb. After two years, I can’t say that I blame her.  

West Goshen is cleared of wrongdoing in the suicide death of longtime Public Works Director John David Woodward. The case, brought by John David’s widow, stems from the consequences of an illegal compensation (aka “squirrel time”) practice sanctioned by former Township Manager Casey LaLonde. The court ruled in favor of the Township and current Township Manager Christopher Bashore stating there was not enough evidence that they were aware of “a sufficiently concrete risk of harm”- but it does seem someone should take some responsibility for this mess.  You can read more about the case here. Special thanks to West Goshen Sunshine for her continuing coverage of the West Goshen government. 

I’m S.L.I.M shady, no I’m the real shady. Last month, West Chester police put a dent in the recent suspected uptick in vandalism by arresting tagger Logan Burney. The original tipoff stemmed from a S.L.I.M tag left on the inside of the old Rice’s Temple at 236 E. Gay St. Using video evidence police were able to place Logan at the location and charge him with burglary and several counts of criminal mischief. 

Clear that snow. It is the ordinance. According to Borough Code, Article IV, Snow and Ice Removal, residents have 24 hrs after a snowfall ends to clear their sidewalks. It seems not all are complying. In January, Building and Housing issued 54 tickets for snow and ice on sidewalks. 

It’s a very scary block. That’s a direct quote from West Chester Borough Councilwoman Sheila Vaccaro, and she isn’t wrong. She was speaking about E. Chestnut Street in that area between the Chestnut Street Garage and the Oscar Lasko YMCA. The area is especially dangerous during the early morning and late afternoon hours as parents deliver young kids to and from YMCA activities. She asked that the Borough conduct a traffic study of the area and consider adding a mid-block crosswalk. While not used often, there is precedent. There is a mid-block crosswalk in front of the Justice Center.

The Accolades.

At Hillsdale, students brought in games and toys from home and were given the opportunity to move between nearby classrooms. Fern Hill combined Global Play Day with World Read Aloud Day letting buddy classrooms (older students paired with younger students) collaborate for unstructured play and shared reading time. 

“Our students bring in a game from home and share in play with others. It’s such a fun, engaging day throughout our building that builds wonderful connections for our students,” said Fern Hill Principal Jennifer Southmayd.

Some things we are celebrating this week: 

Super Bowl wins. I don’t know about your house, but ours is still flying pretty high after Sunday’s trouncing of the Chiefs so I can only imagine how WCU alum Ronell Williams must be feeling. The former 4-year starter for the Golden Rams’ football team is now the Assistant Linebackers/Defensive Quality Control Coach for the Philadelphia Eagles. After that performance, I think we can all say, “Well done, coach.” 

Family Feud wins. Speaking of spotlight-grabbing wins, in a wild story, four brothers surprised their sister, West Chester resident Katy Heuisler with a belated 40th birthday run on the Family Feud!  The whole adventure started two and a half years ago and involves five Bala Cynwyd siblings now scattered across the country. It ended this week with a celebration at the Brickette Lounge and a group viewing of the premier. The Heuislers won their first match, but I’ll give away no more than that. You can get the full story here. Watch the promo video - you’ll see why they got on air. You can stream the full episode on Hulu or Sling TV. It just aired this week so it should be easy to find. Right?  

Swimming wins. Over the weekend, the Ches-Mont Conference held its 8th annual Scott Elliot Invitational (aka conference championships) at WCU’s Graham Natatorium. Swimmers from the three West Chester high schools took home gold in nine events and had 15 individuals qualify for Districts. Winners included: Henderson Boys’ - 200 Free Relay team (Eddie Stoltz, Jeehan Lee, Bailey Steimel and Finn Lukens), Henderson’s Sean Dillon in the 200 and 500 Free, Eddie Stoltz in the 100 Butterfly, and Finn Lukens in the 100 Breast; Henderson Girls’ Paige Fisher in the 200 IM and 100 Free, and Ella Mogck in the 100 Butterfly and the East Girls’ - 200 Free Relay team (Emily Schwarz, Emma Antczak, Lily Rohrer, Grace Herlihy). District Diving Championships will be held this weekend at North Penn High School. District Swimming Championships follow next weekend at the York YMCA. 

Wrestling wins. The wrestling season may have started slowly for Rustin but it’s picking up speed. At the opening Ches-Mont Championships in Dec. Rustin placed ninth out of 12 teams. After upsetting National Division winners Henderson two weeks ago, this week they finished the mission and secured West Chester bragging rights after defeating WC East 42-24. “It’s not about winning in December, it’s about winning in March. Everything you do in December and January leads up to the point where you’re ready to win close matches when it matters,” Rustin coach Aston White told the Daily Local’s Nate Heckenberger. East closes out its season on Saturday against Great Valley. Rustin is next in action on Feb. 22 for the District 1-3A South Sectional. 

Baseball wins. With the Super Bowl in the books and winter sports heading toward the postseason, it’s time to start thinking Spring. West Chester artist Randall Graham, owner of Graham Painting Studio on N. Walnut St., has captured that spring sport spirit with his painting ‘The Old Ball Game’ which was recently awarded Best Still Life at December’s Plein Air Salon. For those, like me, who are not familiar with the term ‘plein air’ it means outdoor painting.

More wins. You get a win, you get a win, everyone gets a win this week, except West Chester University Men’s Basketball coach Damien Blair. He gets 300. On Saturday, Coach Blair secured his 300th win in 17 seasons as the Golden Ram’s head coach. The win came on Senior night against Mansfield and makes Coach Blair the second-winningest coach in WCU history. Coach Dick DeLaney retains the top honor, for now, with 370 wins in 21 seasons. 

Basketball postseason. Next week marks the start of the basketball postseason, and unfortunately for the West Chester boys - at least those that play for West Chester high schools - they will be watching from the sidelines this year. Despite a few late-season runs, Rustin, East, and Henderson all failed to make the District 1 Tournament. Henderson, despite having a better record than some teams ahead of them, ended the year ranked 25th in the District. The top 24 6A schools made the tournament. Seeing they now have some time on their hands, they can go and cheer on the girls. Rustin and East, anyway, are playing on. Rustin Girls ended the year with a record of 13-8  and earned the fifth seed in the District 1 5A tournament. They will face 12th-seeded Harriton tomorrow in the opening round. East Girls finished the year at .500 and earned the 11th seed. They are also playing tomorrow; they face Villa Maria.  

Know someone who should be recognized? Let me know: [email protected].

Hello.

Welcome to Axle Square. This week the Borough Council Smart Growth Committee got their first look at a proposed new eight-unit townhome development planned for W. Washington St. - and while, still early, she’s a cutie. A result of, dare I say it, collaboration? 

Goodbye.

Pay it Forward.

While some may find the slew of government changes spewing out a water hose pace from the Federal government unnerving (going to say I, personally, am glad my coverage ends at the local level), others it seems find it inspiring. This week, more than 120 residents attended the Chester County Department of Voter Service’s seminar: “How to Run for Local Office.”

I am hoping at least a few saw that announcement here and are investigating on behalf of West Chester offices. While our elected officials seem to be doing a fine job, I think we get lucky. Except for the office of mayor, many offices run unopposed. Speaking of which, Borough Council has four members with terms expiring this year including Borough Council President Patrick McCoy (Ward 1), Lisa Dorsey (Ward 7), Shelia Vaccaro (Ward 5), and Brian McGinnis (Ward 3). Not sure which Ward represents you? You can find that here. 

If you are interested in getting involved in a serious way, you have until March 11 to file your nomination petition. That and other key dates here. 

Other ways to give back:

Extra, extra. Casey Costigan, WCU student and producer of West Chester, the Movie, is getting ready for his next project and he needs your help. This time he’s working on a superhero movie, also set in West Chester, and needs extras for a restaurant scene. Scene is shooting Mar. 1. Ready for your close-up? Shoot Casey a note at [email protected] and he’ll let you know the location.

Let’s do a makeover! Safe Harbor is giving their women’s bathroom a much-needed refresh and is looking for some uplifting wall decor (think colorful, florals, or inspirational quotes) and new mildew-free shower curtain liners. A little bit pretty, a little bit practical. If you have something you think would work, reach out to Blaire at [email protected] to coordinate a drop-off. 

Support the arts. This weekend Chester County Art Association is holding a member’s exhibition. It’s a great opportunity to relish in our wealth of local talent, while also maybe grabbing something new and inspiring for yourself. All pieces measure 24” x 24” or smaller giving you an opportunity to start that art collection with some high-quality, original art at accessible prices. 

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The Freakin’ Weekend.

What are you up to this weekend? After the events of the last week, we plan on spending this weekend lying low but we are thinking of sneaking out for a lowkey Valentine’s dinner. I can’t think of a better way to celebrate than with a drama-free meal - and a nice glass of wine.

If you are around this weekend, Valentine’s menus abound. 9 Prime has a pre-fixe menu that sounds yum. Different vibe but this one sounds good too. Heading out with someone special? Drk MTtR has the sexiest L(ong)BD. Staying in? I suggest throwing on these cute little pjs from La Chic Boutique, ordering a heart-shaped pizza, both West Chester Pizza Cafe and America’s Pie will oblige and washing it down with a dozen of Yori’s chocolate-covered strawberries.  

If the Eagles are your love language, Tiger Snake Vintage has the best Super Bowl sweatshirts to wear to the parade or (more likely if this is the first you are hearing of them) a watch party - both Barnaby’s and Saloon 151 are holding them. Go ahead, head over now. I’m calling it, this week is done.

Finally, a very special thank you to this week’s Community Sponsor, Riverstone United Christian Academy. RUCA provides an established public school alternative right here in West Chester! Their Christian-centered curriculum is both academically challenging and faith-focused. Want to learn more? Contact them today!

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:

• Feb. 14 – Andrea Carlson and the Love Police, Uptown, 226 N. High St, 7:30 p.m. An evening of love songs with an ode to Paris. Tickets: $35

• Feb. 15 – West Chester Grower’s Market, corner of Church & Chestnut Sts, 10 a.m. to Noon

• Feb. 15 – Valentine’s Tea, Mimi’s Tea Cottage, 30 S. High St., 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. Celebrate love and friendship with an elegant tea experience. Includes live music and tea service. Tickets: $45.99/person. Registration required.

• Feb. 15 – Holding History: Civil War Letters, Chester County History Center, 1:30 – 3 p.m. Discover the personal stories of Civil War soldiers through the lens of their correspondence with one woman who connected them all. This is a-pay-as-you-wish, in-person event.

• Feb. 15 – Quizzo for a Cause, ACT in Faith, 212 S. High St., doors open at 6 p.m. Games start promptly at 7 p.m. Come hang out with friends while testing your trivia knowledge. Tickets are $25/person and all proceeds go to ACT in Faith. Note: This is a BYOE (bring your own everything event – beer, wine, snacks, etc.) event

• Feb. 15 – Mamma Mania, Uptown, 226 N. High St, 7:30 p.m. Prepare to be transported back to the vibrant 1970s with New York City’s premier ABBA tribute band. Tickets: $40

• Feb. 16 – Revelries and Revolutionaries Elevation Concert, Westminster Church, 10 W. Pleasant Grove Rd, 4 p.m. Celebrate Black History Month with Elevation, an all-professional, intentionally diverse vocal ensemble performing the music of pioneering Black composers. Tickets: $20/adult; $10/student. Singers are also invited to join in a daylong workshop led by gospel conductor Aareon Harley-Emverson. Click here to learn more about the workshop.

• Feb. 16 – WCU Symphony Orchestra Concert, Emilie K. Asplundh Concert Hall, 7 – 8:30 p.m. Modest Mussorgsky’s Pictures at an Exhibition anchors this engaging program that also includes a performance of Lili Boulanger’s beautifully descriptive D’un matin de printemps.

• Feb. 18 – Storytime Registration, West Chester Public Library website, 10 a.m. sharp.

• Feb. 19 – 3rd Wednesday Book Discussion: The Women by Kristen Hannah, West Chester Public Library, 1 – 2 p.m. Registration is required.

• Feb. 20 – The Laugh Lounge, Uptown, 226 N. High St, 7:30 p.m. Hosted by Anna Gallagher, this special event features Brendan Donegan and Tyler Wolf from the “Can It Get Any Whiter” Comedy Tour. Tickets: $25

• Feb. 21 – Comedian Joe Conklin, WCU Asplundh Concert Hall, 8 p.m. Joe Conklin is one of the area’s most sought-after comedians for his fearless, uncanny, and hilariously spot-on impressions of Donald Trump, Mitch McConnell, Barack Obama, Elizabeth Warren, Allen Iverson, and Charles Barkley, and more. Tickets: $70-110  

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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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