Storm knocks out power to thousands, wires down

Sudden, violent storms race across area on Thursday evening By Mike McGann, Editor, The Times A series strong storms raced across parts of Chester County Thursday night, leaving downed trees, power lines and blocked roadways in various parts of the county. As of Friday morning, PECO was reporting some 50,000 locations in the county without power, down from more than 100,000 — and the company expects...

What To Do: Freedom Fest, Big Bang BBQ

Push away those stormy clouds, there’s lots to do this holiday weekend  By Denny Dyroff, Correspondent, The Times The Orbitron is just one of many attractions this weekend at Nottingham County Park’s Freedom Fest. Every year, Independence Day is officially celebrated on July 4. This year, it will also be celebrated on July 5 when Nottingham County Park (150 Park Road, Nottingham, 610-932-2589, www.chesco.org/ccparks) presents...

Kennett supervisors host roundtable to discuss Anson B. Nixon Park

Approvals given for easement payments, parking ordinance advertising, and bikeway payments Representatives of the Kennett Area Park Authority, Kennett Square Borough Council, and the Kennett Township Board of Supervisors and manager met on Monday evening to discuss the past, present, and future of Anson B. Nixon Park. By Rick Marts, Correspondent, The Times KENNETT — The highlight of Monday night’s...

State, local police to crack down on DUI this weekend

The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation, the Pennsylvania State Police and local police are partnering to make the Independence Day holiday travel safer through enforcement targeted at motorists impaired by drugs or alcohol. “Last year we saw Pennsylvanians make smarter decisions when it came to impaired driving over the Independence Day holiday, and I hope we continue to see that positive...

Officials: play it safe when it comes to fireworks

State safety and law enforcement officials are reminding citizens to follow the law and safety recommendations when enjoying fireworks displays during Fourth of July celebrations. “The best way to safely enjoy fireworks is by viewing the large, professionally-run displays enjoyed in many communities,” said State Fire Commissioner Ed Mann. “If you do decide to use the smaller fireworks that Pennsylvanians...

On Stage: Youth is served at Flash Music Challenge

Eight local bands to battle at Kennett venue, Sat. & Sun. By Denny Dyroff, Correspondent, The Times The Floats are among eight local bands taking part in the “The Summer Music Challenge — Battle of the Bands” at The Flash in Kennett this weekend. Many of the area’s music venues are taking a little break over the Independence Day holiday but not The Flash. The Flash (102 Sycamore Alley,...

Letter: Let’s change the conversation

To The Editor, The possible closure of The Barn at Spring Brook Farm has been portrayed in social media and The Kennett Paper as a situation of “The Good Guys vs. the Bad Guys.” This is unfair to the community of Pocopson Township, the Township Supervisors, and is not true. The conversation should instead focus on “Good Neighbors: A Community Effort”. I am a big fan of The Barn at Spring Brook...

West Nile found in Chester Co. mosquitos

The Chester County Health Department is informing residents that mosquito samples collected in Uwchlan Township on June 24 have tested positive for West Nile Virus (WNV). This is the first positive mosquito sample identified in Chester County for the 2014 season. The mosquito traps are placed in various locations in the County as part of routine surveillance by Health Department officials. The Health...

Have a fun and fabulous Fourth!

Fashion, food and fireworks make Independence Day one of my favorite holidays By Kelly Hockenberry, Columnist, The Times How can it be time for the 4th of July?  With school ending so late, it seems as if half of the summer is finished before it has begun! Celebrating Independence Day has always been one of my favorite holidays.  Growing up, we attended our town festivities that included a bike decorating...

Bad state budget could wipe out Corbett and local legislators

If House plan is the final budget, GOP could face electoral doom in November By Mike McGann, Editor, The Times It looks like Gov. Tom Corbett could be winning his budget battle, but could be losing the war — and maybe a handful of state legislative seats in Chester County. We may have a better sense how bad the mess will be once a state budget is passed, maybe even by Monday. The House of Representatives...