West Chester Weekly News Roundup: June 27, 2025

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It’s Friday, June 27, 2025: Happy Friday! Your favorite weekly newsletter is back. Did you miss me? I’m not sure, but things certainly don’t slow down while I’m away, do they? This week, we have the latest on the Chester County DA’s investigation into Kevin Krebs and why he brought his gun to the No Kings Rally. What a scary video that was. Also, do you have what it takes to be a West Chester Police Officer? West Chester Police Chief Joshua Lee shares the hiring process and what he looks for in an officer. Plus, West Chester and West Goshen share their road paving schedules, so does PennDOT, but you’re not going to like it, and is ICE operating in West Chester? New video evidence would strongly suggest yes. 

Lots to get to this week, who’s ready? Let’s catch up. 

From around the state: Pennsylvania school districts continue to struggle to find certified teachers to fill vacancies. A recent report from Penn State education researchers found emergency permits, which first surpassed normal certifications during the COVID-19 pandemic, are still higher. Read Spotlight PA's full report →

West Chester University is trying to help stem the crisis by teaching school districts how to cultivate their own educators. This week, as part of WCU’s PRIZE (Partnering in Raising Inclusive, Zealous Educators) Program, four incoming WCU education majors signed commitments to return to their home districts to continue their careers after graduation. You can learn more about the PRIZE program, including how to sign up, here. 

A Crisis Averted

Two weeks ago tomorrow at the No Kings Rally outside the Historic County Courthouse, what couldn’t happen here, very nearly happened here. Kevin Krebs parked his car and walked into downtown West Chester and the rally with a loaded handgun and several rounds of ammunition. At this point, the events of that day have been covered a dozen times over so I won’t recap them, but that it ended there on the corner of Gay and High Streets can be pinned to three known things, probably a few more unknowns, like, the suspect’s state of mind, and a bit of luck. The last two are outside of our knowledge, so let’s quickly recap what went right.

1. A private citizen notified West Chester Police that a man was carrying a weapon underneath his coat. If you are that anonymous source and would like to come forward, I know there are more than a few people who would like to thank you.

2. West Chester Police acted calmly and professionally to disarm the man. That few knew there was an incident until after the crowd of roughly 6,000 dispersed is a testament to the officers on patrol.

3. Kevin Krebs decided to place the handgun and cartridges of ammunition under his coat. Pennsylvania is an open carry state. If that gun had been readily visible, Kevin would have been within his rights. However, he decided to stash it. It is illegal to carry a concealed weapon without a permit, which Kevin did not have. The original charge filed on June 15 was a misdemeanor.  

This week, Chester County District Attorney Chris deBarrena-Sarobe held a press conference and shared some additional details about the case, including what they found during a June 16 raid of the suspect’s Malvern home. 

Design Series: Make the Most of the Home You Love

At Spring Creek Design, we’ve helped many homeowners in West Chester make the most of the home they love by adding a covered deck or patio. It’s a great way to gain more living space and make your house feel bigger, inside and outside.

The covered porch above serves as an outside living room that the owners use constantly during the spring, summer, and early fall. We also added a flagstone patio and firepit that extends their time outside into the winter.

Like all our projects, details matter. The composite decking is maintenance-free and will withstand decades of use. The tongue-and-groove mahogany ceiling is supported by high-strength LVL beams that won’t twist or split, and the mahogany-topped rail system enhances the contemporary look.

Ready to make the most of the home you love? Give us a call at 610-273-9194.

The Warnings.

ICE agents are active on West Chester streets. Immigration and Customs Enforcement activity has previously been reported in Kennett Square and at West Chester University; now we have a video of plain-clothes agents picking up an individual on the corner of High and Market Sts, in West Chester. The video was taken at 6:30 a.m. last Thursday and shows two individuals escorting a third man into an unmarked Jeep, red and blue lights flashing in the rear. A third agent follows behind. While none of the agents or vehicles are marked, one individual is seen carrying a gun, and two are wearing what appear to be bulletproof vests. In the only audio, you can hear one agent say. “Alright, we got a warrant.” ICE agents are known to operate in civilian clothes with few distinguishing marks - making it easier for them to blend in with the general public.    

The perils of the Midas touch. It seems West Chester gold and silver dealer Robert Leroy Higgins did not understand the lesson of that parable. Last fall, a federal jury found Robert, 69, guilty of fraud and tax evasion. Last week, he was sentenced to 65 years in prison and ordered to pay $76.5 million in restitution to more than 1000 clients. Robert lured unsuspecting victims into a retirement scheme that relied on the stability of precious metals and instead used the money to finance his lavish lifestyle, including a pricey West Chester home, tropical vacations, armored vehicles, and his daughter’s private school education. The fraud is believed to be “the largest theft from a precious metals depository in the history of the United States.”   

Anti-social networks. West Goshen Police are reporting increased incidents of children and teens being targeted online, often through social media apps. Anonymous predators talk their victims into sharing explicit images or personal details, which they later use to blackmail or extort the kid. WGPD recommends parents keep an eye on their child’s social media activity, review privacy settings, and talk openly about the risks of oversharing.  

Where there’s smoke, there’s fire. West Chester Borough Fire Department responded to two local fires last week, and Goshen Fire Company, one. On Friday, WCBFD was at a house fire on the 50 block of Patrick Ave. in West Goshen Township (not phasing that kid, obviously), and at a vehicle fire on the 700 block of E. Marshall St. on Saturday. Crews arrived to find a vehicle engulfed in flames just outside the entrance to the Chester County Hospital. The fire was quickly extinguished, and no injuries were reported. After a weekend cleaning debris from last week’s storms, Goshen Fire Company found themselves at it again on Monday night, after a transformer fire broke out on Strasburg Rd. in East Goshen. The fire was quickly extinguished, and no injuries reported, but GFC did have this warning to residents: “Be careful around all downed power lines, and ALWAYS assume that the wires are live.”

Stay cool out there. While it seems at least some of the hot air is starting to seep out from under this week’s heat dome, it would probably be a little too optimistic to think we won’t see another bout of record-breaking temperatures this summer. So, putting this out there now. Should you need it, the West Goshen Township Administrative Building will be available as a cooling center on those hottest days. Lose power, like many did last week?  Reach out to the area’s YMCAs as a possible resource to recharge and cool off.   

Let’s take one last look. West Goshen Police are still trying to ID this guy. Look familiar? Share what you know with WGPD at 610-696-7400. 

The Accolades.

Public Transportation warriors. The West Chester Rail Service Restoration Committee is not an easy assignment. While the goals are clear, return rail service to West Chester, the barriers are numerous, the costs extravagant, and even your supposed allies can seem at times hesitant to lend their support.  Borough Council, West Chester Historic Railroad, I’m looking at you. Yet for the last decade, founding members Jo Anne Kelton and Thomas Hickey have been undaunted advocates for the cause, guiding the Borough far closer to rail service than anyone could have rationally imagined a decade and a half ago.  Now, with SEPTA faltering, those dreams again appear in doubt. However, if the duo has proved anything during their tenure, one thing is sure: count them down, but never count them out. 

“They are fierce advocates, I would say that word, fierce. Fierce advocates for reestablishing rail in West Chester, Pennsylvania,” said Mayor DeBaptiste, who recognized them both for their service with a key to the Borough. 

Tom, for his part, recognized that public transportation, for all its benefits, can be slow at times. “Obviously, public transportation is not a field for people looking for immediate gratification,” he said.    

Other things we are celebrating this week:

Spring Sports Standouts. Chest-Mont Coaches and the sportswriters at Digital First Media have begun the process of selecting their top performers of the spring sports season. This week, we look at the first team selections in Baseball and Boys' Tennis. Here are the athletes who have been discussed, debated, and acclaimed so far.

David McClain, Rustin, Baseball. Daily Local News, All Ches-Mont - First team. Hitting .413 with 11 RBIs and defensive skills to boot, the senior catcher made both the sports writers' and the coaches’ first team. 

Jackson Roche, Rustin, Baseball. Daily Local News, All Ches-Mont - First team. With an on-base percentage just shy of 50 percent, Rustin’s junior infielder was a reliable presence on offense and defense. 

Liam Schwinn, Henderson, Baseball, All Ches-Mont First Team, National Division

Owen Rozzi, WC East, Baseball, All Ches-Mont First Team, National Division

AJ Calio, Rustin, Baseball, All Ches-Mont First Team, American Division 

Brody Bump, Rustin, Baseball, All Ches-Mont First Team, American Division 

Mace Britton, Rustin, Baseball, All Ches-Mont First Team, American Division

Dan Giordano, Rustin, Baseball, All Ches-Mont First Team, American Division

Zach Evans, Henderson, Tennis. Daily Local News, All Ches-Mont - First Team. Just a sophomore, Zach won the Ches-Mont National singles title and the first two rounds of the District 1 3A singles tournament. 

Ben Gao, WC East. Tennis. Daily Local News, All Ches-Mont - First Team. Ben won his first two District 1 3A singles matches before falling to Unionville’s Matt Miller, the eventual DLN Player of the Year. 

Winter sports standouts. Early this month, former West Chester University Women’s Basketball Coach Lucille Kyvallos shared the stage with some of the biggest names in the game. Sue Bird, Alana Beard, and Sylvia Fowles joined Coach Kyvallos as four of the seven-member Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame class of 2025. 

Now 93, Coach Kyvallos led the Golden Rams from 1962 to 1966, racking up a record of 52 wins and 2 losses before moving on to bigger stadiums. An early pioneer of the women’s game, she is credited with pushing the women’s teams to establish a Final Four format for their end-of-season tournament. 

Award-winning children’s nature programming. Nope, not a new PBS show, it’s the East Goshen Park System under Recreation Director Jason Lang. Nominated by the West Chester Garden Club, Jason was one of just 30 educators selected to receive this year’s Garden Club of America’s Elizabeth Abernathy Hull Award. Established in 1992, the Hull Award recognizes individuals who not only educate but also inspire children to appreciate the beauty of our planet.

“For me,” WCGC member Ginny Levy, told the Daily Local News, “Jason’s gifts go far beyond his impressive list of programs and accomplishments. Jason excels in taking adult ideas and presenting them in a way that is totally kid-focused.” You can read more about Jason’s initiatives and the prize here.  

Curious why some events are covered and others not? Most likely because someone let me know they were happening. Have a shout-out? Let me know at [email protected] or fill out this handy form.  

Hello.

Goodbye.

As of Tuesday, East Whiteland Township’s unlikely journey to preserve a portion of the multi-acre, multi-township Schiffer horse farm on Morestein Rd. was complete. In front of a slew of local dignitaries, West Chester University leaders, and staff, the 52-acre property, sold to the West Chester University Foundation for $1 in 2023, was officially transferred from the Foundation to the Township. This $4.7 million transaction marked the University’s largest donation ever.  

Advent Church and Preschool recently completed extensive facility improvements and added a new $80,000 playground. This inclusive preschool serves children of all backgrounds and abilities in small classes, preparing students for kindergarten and teaching lessons in caring and compassion. Its preschool's updated curriculum aligns with surrounding school districts, incorporating Wilson Reading practices to build a strong pre-literacy program for younger students.

At Advent Church community is important. Staff and families work together to support community beyond the church and school, helping local schools and small businesses through donations and other co-sponsored activities.

For children turning five by November 30, openings remain for the 2025-26 Pre-K class. Tours for the 2026-27 school year resume in October. Registration opens in January. Half day, full day, and extended care options exist. 

For more information, please contact the director, Alexandra Carden at [email protected] or visit the Preschool + Childcare — Advent West Chester Website

Pay it Forward.

Last year, West Chester’s Ginkgo Arts resident artist, Matthew Dougherty, passed away unexpectedly at the Phoenixville Hospital after suffering from a mental health crisis. Earlier this year, his family filed a wrongful death lawsuit against the hospital, alleging the actions taken by the staff after the episode began led to Matthew’s death. The lawsuit, while an important piece of the story, has shifted the narrative to Matthew’s disease, he had schizophrenia, and the area’s growing debate around mental health care. Charlot Barker, friend and managing partner of Gingko Arts on High St, wants to change that. 

“The Philadelphia Inquirer did a story on [the incident], but we want to share more about Matt as a person and artist and how he is still impacting us,” said Charlot

Next Thursday, Ginkgo Arts is holding The Matthew Dougherty Memorial Show from 5 to 8 p.m. There will be examples of Matt’s work, prints to purchase, and an opportunity to donate to NAMI, a mental health organization. Those close to Matt can share a reflection, if they wish. All are welcome to attend.

“While surrounded by beautiful artwork, in the studio Matt loved, we’ll hold his memory close,” Charlot said.  

Give a plant. Take a plant. Or just take a plant. Last year, the West Chester Green Team introduced it’s Plant Wagon. The red wagon was filled with clippings and propigations of local plants and available to residents for the taking. Too many Black Eyed-Susans? Is the Milk Weed taking over? Add some to the wagon. If not, no worries. Well, the wagon is back this year, and it has friends. “We have three wagons in circulation this year,” West Chester Green Team member Chris Pugliese told me. While the precise wago schedule is a well guarded secret. “We deliberately do not advertise locations because when that happens people have been known to take all the plants,” Chris said. They will be making their way through the Borough parks and in various neighborhoods over the next couple weeks.  

Cold runs. Big rewards. Applause this week to everyone who shook off the last effects of the champagne and laced up to run in the Stanley’s Dream Foundation’s 17th annual 5K run on New Year’s Day. Your efforts have resulted in another $5,000 donation to the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia for childhood brain cancer research. To date, Stanley’s Dream Foundation, named in honor of West Chester resident Stanley Edwards, who was diagnosed with brain cancer in the 7th grade, has raised over $125,000 for CHOP. 

Get involved in civic engagement. Ever think it might be fun and rewarding to dedicate your time to West Chester government? No? Well, you should consider it anyway. West Chester could use a few fresh new voices - and while Council commitments can be involved - Committee assignments are often less so. If that little reassurance has convinced you, West Chester is currently seeking two volunteers, one to serve on the Planning Commission (I believe this is one of the bigger time commitments) and the Transportation Advisory Committee. The Planning Commission has a residency requirement (you must live in the Borough), the Transportation Advisory Committee does not. If you are interested, email a copy of your resume to Dana DiDomenico at [email protected]. Use the subject line: Resume for Vacancy. Resumes must be received by July 10.

The Freakin’ Weekend.

What are you up to this weekend? We are hoping to take advantage of Sunday’s beautiful weather with a pool party, but before, I have some post-vacation stock-up shopping to get on top of. Starting with a trip to the Growers Market for fresh summer peaches on Saturday.  

If you are around this weekend, West Chester Parks and Rec is holding its second annual Virtual Golf event on Gay St. tonight from 4 - 8 p.m. There are lots of prizes for those who come closest to the pin. While you’re there, stroll down to Stove and Tap and take in some live music. Then on Saturday, it’s East Goshen Community Day and your first chance at fireworks this year. 

Finally, a very special thank you to this week’s Community Sponsor, PetCare Group. Insured, bonded, and in business for 21 years, PetCare Group has an experienced team of care providers for in-home pet sitting, dog walking, and dog training every day of the year – including weekends, holidays, and overnights. Forgot to cancel the mail? Need someone to water the plants? They’ll take care of those too (no extra cost). Check out their website to learn more.

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:

• June 27 - Virtual Golf on Gay St., Gay St., 4 -8 p.m. $10 gets you three swings. Lots of prizes for those who can get closest to the pin.

• June 28 – The Turks Head Toss, Mt. Bradford Preserve (921 Sconnelltown Road, West Chester, PA 19382), 8 a.m. – 3 p.m. This is a public disc golf tournament/fundraiser. Tee time is flexible. This is a rain or shine event.

• June 28 – West Chester Growers Market, corner of Church and Chestnut Streets, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.

• June 28 – Yoga in the Park, Marshall Square Park, 10:15 a.m. Bring a mat, water, and sunscreen. Registration encouraged, but walk-ins welcome. Class: $15. FYI if you’re registering it’s listed under “Be Rooted.”

• June 28 – CCHC Library Duplicate Book Sale, Chester County History Center, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Explore a curated collection of duplicate books focusing on Chester County history along with maps, ephemera, photo prints, and other unique items. Fill a bag for $5 – bring your own bag and it’s just $3!

• June 28 – Underground Railroad Walking Tour, Chester County History Center, 11 a.m. or 1:30 p.m. Explore the historic sites that served as a backdrop for the stories of the people who helped enslaved people as they passed through West Chester toward freedom. Approx. 90 min. Walking tour; approx. 1.25 miles. Tickets: $16 

• June 28 – LGBTQ+ Voices in Aviation, American Helicopter Museum, 1 – 4 p.m. connect with industry LGBTQ+ organizations and ally organizations. Moderated panel discussion at 3 p.m. Event included with the price of admission.

• June 28 – East Goshen Community Day, East Goshen Township Park, 5 p.m. – sunset . The day is filled with family fun including community booths, food trucks, face painting, a petting zoo, pony rides, and, of course, fireworks.

• June 28 – Steve Smith and Vital Information, Windish Studios, 4 W Prescott Alley, 3:30 p.m. (Drum Clinic) and 7:30 p.m. (Concert) Come rock out with Steve Smith & Vital Information PLUS exclusive pre-show Drum Clinic with Steve! It’s gonna be a night to remember! Tickets: $75 – 125.

• June 29 –West Chester Railroad – Picnic Special, 230 E. Market St. 12 p.m. 90 minute train ride with a mid-trip stop at the Glen Mills station. Picnic optional. Pack a lunch. Tickets: $25/adults; $20/kids

• June 29 – Summer Concert Series – The Sam Stinson Band, West Goshen Community Park, 6:30 p.m. Concert is free but a dry good donation for the West Chester Food Cupboard is encouraged.

• June 30 – $5 Monday Night Movie: The Right Stuff, Uptown Theater, 7 p.m. Include complimentary popcorn

• July 1 – Virtual Lecture: Mills of Delaware Valley and Brandywine, CCHC virtual event, 7 – 8 p.m. Join architect and historic preservationist, Daniel T. Campbell for an illustrated slide show, recalling the origins of milling in the southeastern PA and DE area. This is a pay-as-you-wish event. Registration is required. 

• July 2 – West Chester Taps, downtown, 5 – 7 p.m. Participating locations offer a select list of $5 beers, $6 wines, and $7 cocktails, in addition to appetizer specials. 

• July 2 – Underground Railroad Walking Tour, Chester County History Center, 6 p.m. Explore the historic sites that served as a backdrop for the stories of the people who helped enslaved people as they passed through West Chester toward freedom. Approx. 90 min. Walking tour; approx. 1.25 miles. Tickets: $16

• July 3 – Storytime with Melanie, American Helicopter Museum, 10:30 – 11:30 a.m. Reading included with the cost of admission.

• July 4 – Decorated Bike Parade, West Goshen Community Park, 10 a.m. Celebrate the 249th birthday of the United States’ founding with the Township’s traditional Decorated Bicycle Parade. Everyone is invited to cheer on the participants but you must be a West Goshen resident to participate. If your family would like to participate, register here. 

• July 4 – First Friday, Downtown West Chester, free metered parking after 5 p.m.

• July 5 – West Chester Growers Market, corner of Church and Chestnut Streets, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.

• July 5 – Yoga in the Park, Marshall Square Park, 10:15 a.m. Bring a mat, water, and sunscreen. Registration encouraged, but walk-ins welcome. Class: $15. FYI if you’re registering it’s listed under “Be Rooted.”

• July 5 – Underground Railroad Walking Tour, Chester County History Center, 11 a.m. or 1:30 p.m. Explore the historic sites that served as a backdrop for the stories of the people who helped enslaved people as they passed through West Chester toward freedom. Approx. 90 min. Walking tour; approx. 1.25 miles. Tickets: $16

• July 6 – West Chester Railroad – Picnic Special, 230 E. Market St. 12 p.m. 90 minute train ride with a mid-trip stop at the Glen Mills station. Picnic optional. Pack a lunch. Tickets: $25/adults; $20/kids

Visit the event calendar for a complete list of upcoming events.

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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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