Spring 2009 GOSHEN · Hugh J. Purnell, Jr., Chairman Louis J. Mayer, Secretary William Gale, Member TAX COLLECTOR William R. Keenan TOWNSHIP PARKS Barker Park, Falcon Lane by Westtown

Spring 2009

1025 Paoli Pike • West Chester, PA 19380www.westgoshen.org

WESTGOSHENTownship Newsletter • Volume 18 No. 4

In an effort to provide better, more efficient service to West Goshen resi-dents, the Board of Supervisors hasdecided to build a new Public Worksgarage on the existing municipal campusat 1025 Paoli Pike. The garage willhouse the Streets Department’s vehi-cles, heavy equipment and provideadditional office space. The building willalso serve as the Township’s EmergencyOperations Center.

The new building’s design will providespace for additional growth for the next25 to 30 years. For example, theTownship implemented a street briningsystem last winter to fight ice, snowaccumulation, and reduce salt use. Thenew building will incorporate a brinemaking system that will lower theTownship’s costs to produce, store andutilize brine.

The building’s design will take advantageof the latest environmental construction

technology. Green building advances inthe past decade have provided signifi-cant energy savings and cost efficiencies.Examples of “green” building practicescalled for in the design include geo -thermal heating, installation of skylightsfor additional natural light, installation ofsolar panels for electricity production,and a cistern to collect rainwater forbrine making and vehicle washing.

Residents may ask, “Why build during arecession?” West Goshen Townshiptakes advantage of two circumstancesduring a recession. First, interest ratesare at historic lows, resulting in lowerlending costs. Second, overall construc-tion costs are lower during economicperiods of reduced construction projects. The Township currently rentsan off-site 12,000 square foot storagefacility and garage at an annual cost of$72,000. The Township is nearing theend of its current lease on the storagefacility, and the cost savings realized willsupport a majority of a loan paymenton the new facility. The new buildingwill allow the Township to centralize itscomplete operations to one location.

The Board of Supervisors authorized$2,000,000 for construction in the 2009budget. Construction may begin assoon as September 2009 followingdesign completion. �

Ground to be Broken onNew Public Works Garage

“Why build during arecession?” Building during a recession takesadvantage of (1) lower interest rates and (2)reduced costs of overallconstruction projects.Currently, we lease space.

New Parking Ordinance EnactedEffective February 18, 2009 parking alicensed recreational vehicle, mobilehome, truck camper, boat, boat trailer orutility trailer on any Township streetwithout a Township-provided permit isprohibited. Temporary parking permitsare effective for seven (7) days afterissuance and issued by the TownshipPolice Department. Up to ten (10) permits for a single vehicle may be issuedby the Police Department in one calen-dar year. Five (5) calendar days mustelapse after the close of the seven (7) dayparking permit period before issuance ofanother permit. The permit must be dis-played clearly on the vehicle. Failure toobtain a permit shall result in a daily $50citation, issued by the Police Department.

The first permit for a single vehicle isfree; additional temporary parking permits are $25 each. �

Applicants Sought forPlanning CommissionWould you like to get involved in yourhometown, have a say in West Goshen’sfuture growth, and meet other peopleinterested in contributing to the well-being of West Goshen residents? TheWest Goshen Board of Supervisors isseeking applicants for vacancies on thePlanning Commission. The West GoshenPlanning Commission meets monthly toreview development plans, and to recommend approval or denial of construction projects.

Anyone interest in serving on the PlanningCommission is encouraged to send a letter of interest and a résumé to: WestGoshen Board of Supervisors, 1025 PaoliPike, West Chester, PA 19380. For moreinformation, contact Township ManagerCasey LaLonde at 610-696-5266. �

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The following plans have beenapproved for development:

Howard Business Park: Parking LotExpansion –The land development issituated on the east side of WesttownRoad, south of the intersection withUnion Street, and involves the construc-tion of a parking lot with 95 spaces andstormwater basin relocation sited on an8.37 acre parcel, zoned I-2 LightIndustrial.

The following plans are new submissions for consideration:

Greenhill Corporate Park: Unit 11– Land development plan for a 34,480square foot office building located at1171 McDermott Drive.

R E Michael – Land development forproperty located at 322 Westtown Roadwhich proposes to demolish the existing6,493 square foot building and associatedparking and driveway, and construct anew 14,542 square foot building withassociated parking and driveway.

Hickman Land Development – Landdevelopment for property located at 352Snyder Avenue which proposes to add aroof to a 2,048 square foot partiallycompleted garage, and construct an addi-tional 3,200 square foot garage. Bothgarages are to be used for the storage ofvehicles for septic cleaning business.

Dash Enterprises – A land develop-ment which proposes to combine two

lots into one for use as an auto storagelot with a 2,400 square foot reconstruct-ed building to be used for autopreparation prior to sale. The propertyis located at 716 East Union Street.

Kirkland Woods –The plan proposesthe subdivision of property located at300 Kirkland Avenue into seven singlefamily lots. QVC Studio Park – This plan propos-es 62,930 square feet of new offices andwarehouse building additions located at1200 Wilson Drive.

The following plans remain under review:

Liberty Tool – Land development planfor a 26,000 square foot industrial supply

Subdivision and Land Development Report

Michael A. PillagalliNancy PineKent WiseMegan ZugLeslie K. Bair, AlternateJennifer Dobbins, Alternate

PLANNING COMMISSION(Vacant), Chairman (Vacant), Vice-ChairmanMonica DrewnianyRobert HollandJeffrey LaudenslagerCarrie Martin Michael P. McKieJames J. O’BrienSalvatore Triolo

ZONING HEARING BOARDPeter C. Anderson, ChairmanJoseph DeFelippes, Vice-ChairmanGrant K. Middlestead, MemberScott T. Cullinan, Alternate

SEWER AUTHORITYWalter E. Hoover, Jr., Chairman Michael T. Arnold, Vice-ChairmanTheresa Davis, SecretaryJohn L. Windle, Treasurer Frank J. Biasi, Member

BOARD OF SUPERVISORS6 year elected termPatricia B. McIlvaine, ChairmanEdward G. Meakim, Jr., Vice-Chairman Dr. Robert S. White, Member

ADMINISTRATIONCasey LaLonde, Township ManagerJeanne M. Denham, Finance DirectorRichard J. Craig, Township Engineer

WEST GOSHEN POLICE1025 Paoli Pike, W.C., 19380Police 911 or 610.696.7400Fax [email protected] J. Carroll, Chief of Police

SEWER TREATMENT PLANT848 S. Concord Rd., W.C., 19382610.696.0900Fax 610.429.9360John M. Scott, Sewer Plant Manager

PARK & RECREATION BOARDMary Lou Enoches, ChairmanGerald L. Napiecek, Vice-ChairmanEdward T. Smith, SecretaryRobert M. CifoneKenneth W. Lehr

township inform

ation

Kenneth W. Fuller, MemberKevin M.Snoke, AlternatePaul D. Spiegel, Alternate

THE FRIENDS OF WEST GOSHEN PARKS, INC.Non-profit group assisting the Park andRecreation Board; meets quarterlyLee McFadden, PresidentJohn Herley, Vice-President (Vacant), SecretaryJennifer Dobbins, Treasurer

AUDITORSHugh J. Purnell, Jr., ChairmanLouis J. Mayer, SecretaryWilliam Gale, Member

TAX COLLECTORWilliam R. Keenan

TOWNSHIP PARKSBarker Park, Falcon Lane by Westtown WayCoopersmith Park, Spring Lane, off WestChester PikeHallowell Park, 404 North Five Points RoadLambert Park, 1145 Pottstown PikeWest Goshen Community Park,Fern Hill & North Five Points Roads

Public Township MeetingsBoard of Supervisors (4:00 PM, first and third Wednesday of each month, exceptwhere otherwise noted): May 6 and 20; June 17; July 15.

Park and Recreation Board (7:00 PM, third Wednesday of each month): May20; June 17; July 15.

Planning Commission (7:00 PM third Tuesday of each month): May 12; June 16;July 21.

Sewer Authority (7:30 PM, first Wednesday of each month): May 6; June 3; July 1.

Zoning Hearing Board (7:00 PM, first Thursday after the second Wednesday ofeach month or as needed): May 14; June 11; July 9.

All meetings are held in the Township Administration building except the Sewer Authority, which isconducted at the Sewer Treatment Plant at 848 South Concord Road. There is a public commentperiod at each meeting. Zoning Hearing Board Meetings may be cancelled or added as needed.Check www.westgoshen.org for updates.

warehouse facility with associated parking and stormwater managementfacilities, located at 1005 Saunders Lane.

Goshen Leisure Development II –The proposed plan reflects 164,150square feet of flex office and warehousebuildings to be located at 21 HagertyBoulevard.

Chester County Hospital: WestPavilion –The land development proposes a 71,715 square foot hospitaladdition for the Chester CountyHospital located at 701 East MarshallStreet.

415 Goshen Road Subdivision –Theproposed plan will subdivide the prop-erty located at 415 Goshen Road intofive single family lots.

The Woodlands at Greystone –Thesubmitted plan proposes for the devel-opment of 598 dwelling units pursuantto the Flexible Design ConservationDistrict regulations for a 446+ acreproperty located along Pottstown Pike,Phoenixville Pike, and the Route 322Bypass (commonly referred to as theJerrehian tract).

Greystone South –The proposedplan concerns a 25 lot residential subdivision located on the west side ofPenn Drive, just north of the Route 322bypass.

A plan may be viewed, by request, bycontacting West Goshen Township. �

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Ordinance 09-2008 was adopted onDecember 10, 2008, which added the R-3BFlexible Design Conservation District, andrezoned several parcels from R-3Residential to R-3B. The rezoned parcelsare located along Pottstown Pike,Phoenixville Pike, and the Route 322Bypass (commonly referred to as theJerrehian tract). The ordinance changealso reflected any and all definitionchanges as well as area and bulk require-ments applicable to the new zone.

Ordinance 10-2008 was adopted onDecember 10, 2008, which amended thedefinition of “Family” to incorporate themeaning of that word in relationship tothe number of unrelated persons living ina group home. Additionally a definitionfor “independent living facility” was addedwith use regulations provided for in theR-3 Residential District. Finally thescreening and landscaping requirementswere revised, with a recommended plant-ing guide provided.

Ordinance 01-2009 was adopted onFebruary 18, 2009, which prohibited parking of a mobile home, motor home,trailer, truck camper, boat, boat trailer orutility trailer on any street, highway, or

road in the Township, without first obtain-ing a temporary parking permit from theTownship Police Department. The permitwill be valid for seven consecutive daysand must be attached to the vehicle dur-ing the parking period. A maximum of 10temporary parking permits per year willbe issued for the same vehicle. TheTownship Code was amended to includefines for a violation of these regulations.

Ordinance 03-2009 was adopted on April15, 2009, which provided a definition for“Building Envelope”. The ordinanceallows swimming pools as an accessoryuse in the R-2, R-3, R-3A, R-3B, and R-4zoning districts on lots which front ontwo or more streets and on corner lotsprovided they are located within thebuilding envelope.

Ordinance 04-2009 was adopted on April15, 2009, which amended Chapter 42 ofthe West Goshen Township Code entitled“Fireworks” to allow the use of sparklersin the Township (see Fire Safety article).

A copy of any of the above referencedordinances in its entirety is available uponrequest. �

Ordinance Changes

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KKnnooww HHooww ttoo DDiissppoossee ooff TTrraasshh,, Recyclables, and Hazardous Items

� Infectious/Medical Waste� Explosives/Ammunition� Dioxin� Latex/Water Based Paints� Pressurized CFAs & HCFSs� Commercial/Industrial Waste

� Radioactive Waste� Unidentified Waste� Appliances� *Tires� *Car Batteries� *Used Motor Oil

West Goshen Township is com-mitted to providing residentswith efficient trash removalservice using environmentallysound practices to prevent recyclable items from ending upin landfills and to remove haz-ardous items from the wastestream. To ensure this level ofservice, West Goshen Townshipand Chester County

accommodate separate collec-tions for recyclables, householdhazardous wastes, regular trash,and bulk items.

Residential establishments withfour or more units and commer-cial, municipal, and institutional establishments are responsiblefor individually contracting attheir sole cost and expense for

the collection of waste and recy-clables with any collector/haulerlicensed by West GoshenTownship. (See page 6.)

Please use the following guidefor disposing of recyclables,household hazardous wastes, andother trash items.

HOUSEHOLD HAZARDOUS WASTE

Paint ProductsOil-Based PaintsTurpentine/ThinnersStain/Varnish/ShellacStrippers/RemoversAdhesives/Solvents

HouseholdDrain OpenerRug/Wood/MetalCleanersMothballs/FlakesSpot RemoverHousehold BatteriesKeroseneSmoke AlarmsToilet Bowl CleanersAdhesives/Solvents

OutdoorPool ChemicalsWeed KillersSeptic TankDegreasersAsphalt SealersCaulking CompoundsJoint CompoundsRoof Cements

AutomotiveGrease/Rust SolventsFuel AdditivesCarburetor CleanersTransmission/BrakeFluidAntifreezeGasoline

*Call 610-273-3771, ext. 228 for recycling locationsfor automotive related materials.

ACCEPTABLEMATERIALS

OtherAcids/Caustics/SolventsFlammables/OxidizersLead/MercuryPesticidesOrganic PeroxideReactive MetalsGas Cylinders max. 20#s

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UNACCEPTABLE MATERIALS

Items labeled with any of the following words cannot be disposed of with regular trash: CAUTION,TOXIC, DANGER, FLAMMABLE, WARNING,CORROSIVE, EXPLOSIVE, REACTIVE, COMBUSTIBLE, POISONOUS, or HAZARDOUS. Use the chart at the right to determine items that may be brought to the Chester CountyHousehold Hazardous Waste Collection sites.Collection dates and locations for 2009 will be:

SSaattuurrddaayy,, MMaayy 1166,, 22000099Owen J. Roberts High School

981 Ridge Road, Pottstown, PA 19465

FFrriiddaayy,, JJuunnee 1199,, 22000099CAT Brandywine Campus

1635 E. Lincoln, Highway, Coatesville, PA 19320 Computer components will also be

accepted at this collection.

Saturday, September 19, 2009New Garden Township Building

8934 Gap Newport Road, Landenberg, PA 19350

Saturday, October 10, 2009Chester County Government Service Center 601 Westtown Road, West Chester, PA 19380

Computer components will also be accepted at this collection.

Latex paints will not be accepted—they may beair dried or mixed with cat litter and disposed ofwith your regular trash pickup. Motor oil andtires will not be accepted, but may be brought toyour local service station. Call (610)273-3771 forlocations for automotive related materials.

Please pack all household hazardous wastes safelyin original containers for transport.

Know How to Dispose of Trash, RReeccyyccllaabblleess,, aanndd HHaazzaarrddoouuss IItteemmss

The following items are NOTrecyclable and should be disposed of with regular trash:

• Tissues, paper towels, and napkins• Food wrappers• Wax or plastic coated boxes• Tyvek envelopes• Metallic wrapping paper• Light bulbs• Plate glass, window glass, drinking glasses, or mirrors• Crystal• Ceramics• Aerosol paint cans• Ovenware• Plastics without identifying recyclingnumbers• Empty oil cans or bottles

TRASH(MONDAYS ANDTHURSDAYS)

Place Township-provided 96 galloncontainer at curbside before 6:00 AMor the night before. Trash will not bepicked up if it is put out after thetruck has arrived.

The Township-provided 96 gallon containers helpassure efficient trash collection. Please followthese guidelines to makesure your trash is beingpicked up safely and in atimely manner:

• Your trash container has aunique identification numberassigned to your home. We rec-ommend that you make note ofyour toter number and/or indi-cated your address in permanentblack marker on it to avoid con-fusing your container with thoseof neighbors.• All trash (except bulk items)must be placed inside theTownship- provided container.• Place your container on thestreet with the front wheelsagainst the curb and the handleand wheels facing away from thestreet.• Make sure your recycling con-tainer is placed at least threefeet to the left or right of thetrash toter.• Position your container so it isat least four feet away frommailboxes, cars, or any otherobstacles.

RECYCLABLES(MONDAYS)

There is no maximum limit. The following items are recyclable:• Cans, including aluminum, steel or tin.• Bottles and jars, including clear, brown, or green glass.• Plastics, #1 through #7• Flattened boxes, including cereal boxes, corru-gated cardboard, and other cardboard boxesPlease note that all cardboard items mustfit into your recycling bucket. Cardboardmust be cut into pieces no larger than twofeet by two feet, and bagged or bundledinto stacks no larger than one foot thick.• Paper, including junk mail, telephone books,catalogs, white paper, wrapping paper, magazines, and newspapers

All items must be placed in a West GoshenTownship plastic recycling bucket or a trash canwith a Township recycling sticker affixed to it.Recycling stickers are free and may be obtainedfrom the Township. If you have moved into newconstruction, you may obtain a recycling bucket atno cost at the Township Administration Building.Twenty gallon recycling buckets are available forpurchase ($10 each) at the TownshipAdministration Building. Mark each bucket withyour street and house number. Place at curbsidebefore 6:00 AM or the night before. Recyclingbuckets must be placed to the left or right oftrash cans, with at least three feet of clearancebetween the containers.

See back cover for

Senior TrashRebateProgram!

BULK TRASH(THURSDAYS)

A maximum of one bulk item will becollected per week. A bulk item is anobject which two people can lift.Refrigerators, air conditioners, andother cooling units must be taggedthat freon has been removed. Nobuilding materials, railroad ties, auto-motive parts, or tires will be pickedup. A maximum of four carpet rolls,each no longer than four feet inlength, will be collected. If unsurewhether or not your bulk trash itemwill be collected, call Allied WasteService at 610-869-2222.

Items Not Accepted: Explosives,ammunition, radioactive wastes, andinfectious or unidentified wastes willnot be accepted for disposal. Pleasecontact the proper authorities if youhave a waste item that poses a significant danger.

NO TRASHSERVICEIf a collection day for regular trash,recycling, or bulk pickup falls on a holiday, collection will occur on thevery next day. If the holiday falls on aMonday, the second pickup that weekwill also be postponed to the follow-ing Friday. Midweek holidays mayaffect the regularly scheduledThursday trash collection.

Township offices will beclosed on Monday, May25th. The Township holidaytrash pickup schedule willbe in effect that week withtrash picked up on Tuesday,May 26th and on Friday,May 29th.

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Recycle plasticswith a number1 through 7 inthe familiarrecycling logo

Recycling is required by: • Students/staff of both public and private primary, secondary, and post-secondary schools• Residents of hospitals, dormitories, and nursing homes• Employees of institutions, public agencies, commercial entities, and industry• Owners of restaurants, shopping centers, stores, officebuildings, and factories• Persons living in single family homes, con-dominiums, townhouses, or apartments

Recycling programs are required for:• Commercial Properties: stores, markets,office buildings, restaurants, and shoppingcenters• Industrial Properties: factories, foundries,processing plants, and warehouses• Institutions: hospitals, nursing homes, private and public schools and universities• Public agencies: government agencies,authorities, and councils • Multi-unit residences: apartment buildingswith four or more units and condominiumassociations

Each owner, operator, or administrator of one of the abovementioned categories is required to provide to each occupant,employee, patron, or resident written material describing itsrecycling program. Written instructions should clearly describewhat materials are to be recycled, how the materials are to beprepared, and how the collection system works. The owner,operator, or administrator must provide for collection of therecyclable materials at least once per month.

The recycling containers must be easily accessible and suitablefor the type of material that is being collected. Educationalfacilities must provide for separation and collection of recycla-ble materials in classrooms, administrative offices, cafeterias, anddormitories.

Materials to Be RecycledCommercial, municipal, and institutional establishments mustprovide, at a minimum, for the separation and recycling of thefollowing materials:• Computer paper and white bond/copier/letterhead paper• Corrugated paper• Aluminum, steel, and bimetallic cans

Multi-unit Residences (apartment buildingsand condominiums) must provide for theseparation of and recycling of at least four ofthe following materials: • Clear and colored glass• Aluminum, steel, and bimetallic cans• #1 and #2 plastics• Mixed paper including newspaper, junk mail,telephone books, catalogs, white paper, mag-azines, flattened boxes which do not comein direct contact with food, and non-corru-gated cardboard.Check with your apartment complex or con-dominium association to determine whichmaterials to recycle.

For more information on the recycling requirements, contact610-696-5266, ext. 4304 or [email protected]. �

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Institutional Recycling Requirements inWest Goshen Township

Recycling is everyone’sresponsibility. Buildingmanagers must provideeasy-to-use containersand make informationabout recycling readilyavailable to renters, andtenants must followrecycling directionswhen separating recyclables from trash.

Tips to Help Your RecyclingProgram Succeed• If possible, place recycling containers near every trash can at your facility.• Provide clearly marked directionsabout what recyclable materialsare accepted.• Although recyclables such as aluminum cans, glass bottles, andplastic containers may be

separated, better recycling resultsare usually achieved using onerecycling container.• Allow for adequate and convenientstorage space for recyclables. Ifrecycle bins fill to capacity, tenantswill be likely to dispose of recyclables with regular trash.• Be sure to notify new tenants ofyour corrugated cardboard collec-tion system before they move in.

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May 9 Summer Recreation Program registrationMay 16 Summer Recreation Program registrationMay 17 Bus Trip to Nationals Park

June 2 June Water Walking beginsJune 7 Concert by West Chester East High School Jazz BandsJune 8 Adventure Boot Camp Summer Session 1 beginsJune 14 Summer Concert: Children’s performance by John FlynnJune 20 Bus Trip to New York CityJune 21 International Go Skateboarding Day Celebration at Robert E.

Lambert Park June 22 Summer Recreation Program and Summer Teen Program beginJune 25 June Water Walking endsJune 28 Summer Concert: Classical and pop tunes with the Shaw Strings

July 3 Adventure Boot Camp Summer Session 1 endsJuly 4 Decorated Bike Parade (Raindate: July 5)July 7 July Water Walking beginsJuly 12 Summer Concert: Motown music of Special BlendzJuly 13 Adventure Boot Camp Summer Session 2 beginsJuly 18 Commonwealth Classic Theatre Company presents

Shakespeare in the Park:“A Midsummer Night’s Dream” (Raindate: July 18)

July 26 Summer Concert: The Chester County Concert BandJuly 30 July Water Walking ends

August 4 August Water Walking beginsAugust 7 Adventure Boot Camp Summer Session 2 endsAugust 9 Summer Concert: Country-Western sound of Straight ShooterAugust 14 Summer Recreation Program and Summer Teen Program endAugust 17 Adventure Boot Camp “Fitness Blast” beginsAugust 23 Summer Concert: Irish rockers BlackthornAugust 27 Fall Water Walking endsAugust 28 Adventure Boot Camp “Fitness Blast” ends

Look for information about the Fall Movie Series, Harvest Festival, Holiday Events, and Fall Bus Trips in future issues of The West Goshen Township Newsletter.

The West Goshen Township Park and Recreation Department is committed to providinghigh-quality free or low-cost recreational events to residents of West GoshenTownship. Guests to these events are encouraged to bring a dry good item (e.g., soap, toilet paper, laundry detergent, shampoo, etc.) to be donated to the

West Chester Food Cupboard and the Coatesville Veterans Affairs Medical Center fordistribution to low-income families and veterans in Chester County .

To find out if an event is moved to an alternate location or changed to a raindate, visitwww.westgoshen.org or call 610-696-5266 within the two hours preceding the event. To receivemonthly updates about upcoming events from the West Goshen Park and Recreation Department,contact Park and Recreation Director Ken Lehr at [email protected].

Spring and Summer at a Glance

For all SummerPrograms…

ACTIVITY GUIDE

Join the fun of one of William Shakespeare’s most pop-ular and uproarious comedies, “A Midsummer Night’sDream” on Saturday, July 18th at 7:00 PM at WestGoshen Community Park, as the West Goshen Parkand Recreation Department welcomes back theCommonwealth Classic Theatre Company, the region’spremiere touring acting troupe.

Meet some of Shakespeare’s most memorable charac-ters in “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” including younglovers, fairies, insubordinate servants, and a puckishtrickster who gets turned into a donkey! The play isfull of mayhem, magic, and madness and an all- encompassing compassion for the foibles of itscharacters and, indeed, for all mortal “fools.”

In the event of rain, the performance would be postponed to Sunday, July 19th at 7:00 PM. Checkwww.westgoshen.org after 5:00 PM on the date of theperformance for rain determination. �

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The next trip to New York City with theWest Goshen Park and RecreationDepartment will take place on Saturday,June 20th. The bus will depart from WestGoshen Community Park at 9:00 AM, anddrop participants off near Times Square.Spend the whole afternoon on your ownin the Big Apple seeing a show, shopping,sightseeing, and dining, and board the busto return home at 7:00 PM, returning toWest Goshen Township at approxi-mately 10:00 PM. Cost of the trip is$35 per person and includes round-trip transportation and bus drivertip. For more information, visitwww.westgoshen.org or call theWest Goshen Park and RecreationDepartment at 610-696-5266. �

ACTIVITY GUIDE

A Midsummer Night of Fun at West Goshen Community Park

Get Updates on Trips toYankee Stadium, Citi Field,and MoreThe West Goshen Park and Recreation Departmentis working on organizing bus trips to the new YankeeStadium and Citi Field in New York City this summer. Because of logistics regarding these newfacilities and their popularity, both the New YorkYankees and the New York Mets have not madesummer group tickets available as of April. The WestGoshen Park and Recreation Department plans tohave information available about potential Augustand September trips available in the Summer 2009issue of the West Goshen Township Newsletter.

To receive notifications about these trips as soon asthey become available and other updates, sign up for“The Rec Room,” the monthly electronic newsletterof the West Goshen Park and RecreationDepartment. To register for this free service, justsend your name and email address to Park andRecreation Director Ken Lehr [email protected]. �

You Know New York;You Need New York;You Know You NeedUnique New York

York!New

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Some of the region’s most popular bandswill be coming to West GoshenTownship to participate in this year’sSummer Concert Series.

On Sunday, June 14th, John Flynn, localsinger with a national following, willpresent an evening of children’s musicfeaturing original songs of his includingthe always-popular “A Manatee Sneezedon Me.”

On Sunday, June 28th, The ShawStrings, an all-female string orchestrabased in West Goshen Township, willperform classical and pop favorites.

Get ready to dance in the aisles withSpecial Blendz, as they bring theirMotown sound and incomparable show-

manship to the West Goshen SummerConcert Series on Sunday, July 12th.

Some of the best musicians from yourown neighborhood will perform with theChester County Concert Band onSunday, July 26th.

Local Country-Western favortiesStraight Shooter visit CommunityPark on Sunday, August 9th.

The Summer Concert Series concludeson Sunday, August 23rd with local Irish-inspired rock legends Blackthorn.

In addition to the regular SummerConcert Series performances, the West Goshen Park and RecreationDepartment is partnering with the

West Chester East High School MusicDepartment to present some of thearea’s top young performers in a concertby the West Chester East HighSchool Jazz Bands on Sunday, June 7th.

Beginning this year, all concerts willstart at 6:30 PM at the J. Leon HagertyAmphitheater at the West GoshenCommunity Park (N. Five Points andFern Hill Roads). Concerts are freeof charge. In case of rain, concerts willbe moved to the West Chester EastHigh School Auditorium on Ellis Lane.Rain determination will be made after3:00 PM on the date of the concert.Visit www.westgoshen.org for direc-tions and rain determination. �

Area’s Top Performers Highlight Summer Concert Series

Due to budget cuts, West Goshen Township will not be able to offer Community Day in2009. The Park and Recreation Department would like to thank all the individuals, businesses, and community groups, and in particular The Friends of West Goshen Parks,for past support of West Goshen Community Day.

John Flynn performs onJune 14th

Motown musicians SpecialBlendz return to WestGoshen Community Park onJuly 12th

See Irish Rockers Blackthorn on August 23rd

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What do friends, fun, games, andsun have in common? They are allfound at West Goshen’s SummerRecreation Program! Children five(by September 1, 2009) throughtwelve years old are invited to par-ticipate in the Summer RecreationProgram at either Barker Park,Coopersmith Park, or West GoshenCommunity Park, where they canenjoy supervised activities includingsports, games, crafts, special events,and weekly field trips. The WestGoshen Summer RecreationProgram begins on Monday, June22nd, and continues each weekdaythrough Friday, August 14th. TheSummer Recreation Program beginsat 9:00 each morning, and runs untilnoon.

West Goshen residents with onechild pay $200 for the eight-weekprogram. Families residing in WestGoshen Township registering twochildren pay $350. The registrationfee for each additional child in aWest Goshen family household is$100. The registration fee for resi-dents of other municipalities is$300 per child. Four of the eightfield trips are included with the reg-

istration fee. The other four fieldtrips typically have a fee of $10 to$15 per trip. Field trips include ice-skating, roller-skating, bowling,movies, water slides, and more!

Registration will be held onSaturday, May 9th between 8:00 AMand 11:00 AM, and Saturday, May16th between 9:00 AM and 11:00AM at the West Goshen TownshipAdministrative Building.

Registration for both the morningprogram and the clinics may be lim-

ited, with Township residents havingfirst priority. If space is still avail-able, registrations may becompleted any business daybetween 7:00 AM and 5:00 PMbeginning May 18th. Parents mustbring their children’s birth certifi-cates at registration. Proof ofresidency is required to be eligiblefor the resident rate.

For more information, call the WestGoshen Park and RecreationDepartment at 610-696-5266. �

Learn to shoot, skate, and score in the West GoshenPark and Recreation Department’s Summer SportsClinics! Clinics are intended to introduce beginnersbetween the ages of five through twelve to new sportsthrough supervised instruction. Clinics begin the weekof June 29th and run through the week of August 14th,meeting once a week for seven weeks. All clinics takeplace at West Goshen Community Park, between 1:30PM and 3:00 PM, except the skateboarding clinics,which will take place at Robert E. Lambert Park onPottstown Pike.

Whenever possible, cancellations due to inclementweather will be made up at a later date.

Summer Sports Clinic registration fees are $60 persport (for each seven week session) for West Goshenresidents, and $75 per sport for residents of othermunicipalities. �

SPORTS CLINICS

The following sports are scheduled for Summer 2009:

Mondays:Skateboarding 5-8 years oldField Hockey 6-10 years oldTennis 9-10 years old

Tuesdays:Tennis 11-12 years oldSoccer 5-8 years oldBasketball 8-11 years old

Thursdays:Tee-Ball 5-8 years oldLacrosse 6-10 years oldSkateboarding 9-12 years old

Summer Fun for Children 5-12 Years OldACTIVITY GUIDE

– 11 –– 11 –

Hey, teens! Would you like to go white-water rafting, play disc golf, or dare totackle the newest and coolest rollercoasters and water rides around? TheWest Goshen Summer Teen Program,designed specifically for teens betweenthe ages of 13 and 15, offers a variety offun, rewarding, and adven-turous activities toparticipate in this summer.The 2009 Summer TeenProgram begins on Monday,June 22nd and runs throughFriday, August 14th, offeringparticipants the opportunity to engage insports, games, and special events at WestGoshen Community Park. In addition,the teens join in community service proj-ects and participate in weekly field trips.This year’s field trips include visits toHershey Park, Dorney Park, BrandywinePicnic Park, Waterworld Waterpark, andthe rapids of the Lehigh River. In addi-tion, participants will enjoy activities suchas bowling, disc golf, geo-caching, and tubing down the scenic Brandywine River.The Summer Teen Program runs from

9:00 AM through noon most days.However, some field trips and communityservice projects will run until later in the day.

West Goshen residents interested in theSummer Teen Program pay $200for one participant, $350 fortwo participants, and $100 per

additional participant.The cost for residentsof other municipalitiesis $300 per partici-

pant. West Goshen families with childrenin both the Summer Recreation Programand the Summer Teen Program receivethe discounted price for multiple chil-dren. There is an additional charge foreach field trip, typically $15 to $30 pertrip.

Registration will be held on Saturday, May9th between 8:00 AM and 11:00 AM, andSaturday, May 16th between 9:00 AM and11:00 AM at the West Goshen TownshipAdministrative Building. Availability maybe limited, with Township residents having

first priority. If space is still available, registrations may be completed any busi-ness day between 7:00 AM and 5:00 PMbeginning May 18th. Parents mustbring their children’s birth certifi-cates at registration. Proof ofresidency is required to be eligiblefor the resident rate.

For more information call the WestGoshen Park and Recreation Departmentat 610-696-5266. �

Before going to the shore, hosting a barbe-cue, or visiting family and friends, take sometime on July 4th to celebrate America’s birth-day with your neighbors from West GoshenTownship at the annual Decorated BikeParade. Children can decorate their bicycles,tricycles, training wheels, big wheels, strollers,wagons, and wheelchairs in patriotic themesand parade through West Goshen CommunityPark. The parade begins at 10:00 AM. All children living in West Goshen Township arewelcome to participate and everyone is invited to come and enjoy the fun! All participants will receive commemorativemedals, and top winners will receive prizes.

Register to enter at www.westgoshen.org.Please note that anyone entering a bike inthe parade MUST wear a bicycle helmet.

In the event of rain, the Decorated BikeParade would be postponed to Sunday, July 5th at 10:00 AM. Rain notification willbe posted on the Township website by 9:00AM on July 4th. �

Children are encouraged to be creative when decorating theirbikes. You can learn frompast prize winners, or devel-op your own themes:

• Prize winners have included participants dressed likeGeorge Washington andAbraham Lincoln. Why notsalute America’s vice-presidents bydressing like Elbridge Gerry or LeviMorton?

• Past participants have decoratedtheir bikes with pictures of baldeagles. You can honor Pennsylvaniaby covering your bike with decora-tions of the state bird, the ruffedgrouse.

• Red, white, and blue are certainlythe most popular color themes atthe Decorated Bike Parade. If youwould like to recognize WestGoshen’s colors, you can decorate

your bike withPantone

colors 5425U, 458U,and 11-0601TPX.

• Service men andwomen have been hon-

ored at past bike parades, withparticipants dressed like soldiers, police officers, and fire-

fighters. If you really want to win aprize, decorate your bike honoring atrue unsung hero—your favoritePark and Recreation employee.

• The Decorated Bike Parade is acelebration of American history, soparticipants should dress according-ly. Dressing like the Statue ofLiberty is appropriate. Dressinglike Michelangelo’s statue of Davidwould be inappropriate.

• Remember—HAVE FUN!!!

The Summer Teen Program offersfun activities, action-packed fieldtrips, and community service projectsfor participants.

TTeeeenn--AAggeedd FFuunn

Everybody Loves a Parade!

Waterworld!

Dorney!Hershe

y!

– 12 –

Hours

The skatepark at Robert E. LambertPark is open on weekdays from 4:00PM through sunset, and on week-ends from 10:00 AM through sunsetthrough Sunday, May 31st. Theskatepark will also open at 10:00 AMon Monday, May 25th.

Beginning on Monday, June 1st, theskatepark will open from 10:00 AMthrough sunset every day throughMonday, August 31st. The skateparkwill close at 5:00 PM on Saturday,July 4th.

Visitors to the skatepark at RobertE. Lambert Park are reminded thatskatepark hours are subject toweather conditions. The skateparkwill be closed in the event of rain orwet ground. To check whether ornot the skatepark is open, call WestGoshen Township at 610-696-5266.

Go Skateboarding Day

West Goshen Township will cele-brate Go Skateboarding Day onSunday, June 21st. The $5 daily entryfee will be waived that day. Experts

from Fairman’s Skate, Snow, and SurfShop will be on hand to help partici-pants master their latest moves.Free raffle prizes will be given outthroughout the afternoon.

Please note that participants will stillbe required to complete daily regis-tration and waiver forms. Parentsor legal guardians of participantsunder 18 years old will need to signbefore entry will be permitted.

Because Go Skateboarding Day fallson Father’s Day this year, all dadsresiding in West Goshen Township inattendance will receive a WestGoshen Township coffee mug, and beeligible to win special prizes. This isa great opportunity for kids to teachtheir fathers to skate, or for dads tointroduce their sons or daughters toskateboarding!

Fairman’s Skate Jams

Experts from Fariman’s Skate, Snow,and Surf Shop will also visit LambertPark on the second Tuesday of eachmonth between 6:00 PM and sunsetthrough October 2009, weather permitting. Meet the pros and getvaluable pointers on improving yourskateboarding skills.

Clinics

West Goshen Township will offerbeginner skateboarding clinics onMondays from June 29th throughAugust 10th for children fivethrough eight years old, and onThursdays from July 2nd throughAugust 13th for children ninethrough twelve years old. Each setof seven sessions costs $60 for residents of West Goshen Township,or $75 for residents of other municipalities.

— REMEMBER —

Helmets, kneepads, and elbow pads must be worn at all times in the skatepark at

Robert E. Lambert Park.

For participants under 18 years old, a parent or legal guardian must sign the

registration and waiver before the minor may enter the skatepark.

Skatepark UpdatesACTIVITY GUIDE

– 13 –– 13 –

Helping Keep Your Employees Fitand Active

Opportunities to Partner onEmployee Fitness Activities

The West Goshen Park and

Recreation Department is

committed to making West

Goshen Township a healthy

community. In addition to

parks, athletic facilities, and

fitness programs, the Park

and Recreation Department

can offer employers the

opportunity to partner on

employee fitness activities,

including disc golf outings, Wii

sports, or spongeball dodge-

ball tournaments. If your

company or corporate park is

having a fitness fair and you

would like to learn more

about resources available to

you through the West Goshen

Park and Recreation

Department, contact Park

and Recreation Director

Ken Lehr at

[email protected] or at

610-696-5266. �

For those interested in more intensiveskateboarding lessons, the WestGoshen Park and RecreationDepartment is partnering withFairman’s Skate, Snow, and Surf Shopto offer week-long skateboardingcamps. Children six through twelveyears old can choose to attend skate-boarding camp either July 20th – July24th or August 17th – August 21stbetween 9:00 AM and noon each day.Cost is $90 for residents of WestGoshen Township, or $100 for residents of other municipalities. Reg -istration for each additional child fromthe same family would cost just $75.

Skateboarders wanting individualinstruction can also make arrange-ments with the West Goshen Parkand Recreation Department for private lessons featuring experts fromFairman’s staff. Pricing for private lessons is as follows:

One-Hour Lessons1 skater: $30 2 skaters: $453 skaters: $604 skaters: $755 skaters: $90

Two-Hour Lessons1 skater: $50 2 skaters: $803 skaters: $904 skaters: $1105 skaters: $130

Four One-Hour Weekly Lessons1 skater: $105 2 skaters: $1503 skaters: $1954 skaters: $2405 skaters: $285

For more information about privatelessons, contact the West GoshenPark and Recreation Office.

Annual Memberships

Annual memberships to the skateparkmay be purchased at the West GoshenTownship Administration Building atPaoli Pike and N. Five Points Road.The cost for an annual membership is$50 for West Goshen residents, or$100 for residents of other municipal-ities. Daily passes may be purchasedat the skatepark for $5. Theskatepark at Robert E. Lambert Parkis restricted exclusively for use byskateboarders and inline skaters. Callthe West Goshen Park and RecreationDepartment for more informationabout skatepark memberships.

Email Updates

Want to know the latest aboutskatepark hours, employment opportunities, and events? The West Goshen Park and RecreationDepartment sends out periodicalupdates via email to notify users of allthe most recent information. To beincluded on the email list, contact Parkand Recreation Director Ken Lehr [email protected]. �

Look in theSummer 2009 issue

of The West GoshenTownship Newsletter forinformation about Fall sessions for the followingpopular fitness programs:Adventure Boot Camp forWomen, Senior WaterWalking, and Yoga-Pilates. Toreceive monthly updates aboutfitness programs and otherPark and Recreation events,email Park and RecreationDirector Ken Lehr [email protected].

– 14 –

Adventure Boot Camp forWomen ResumesThe popular women’s fitness program returns to WestGoshen Community Park this summer. Sessions takeplace from 5:30 AM through 6:30 AM. Registrants cansign up for any of the following sessions:

June 8th through July 3rdJuly 13th through August 7th

The cost for each full session is $300 for West Goshenresidents or $320 for non-residents.

Can’t commit to attend every morning? Participantscan sign up for partial sessions and attend three mornings per week. The cost for each partial session is $200 for West Goshen residents or $210 for non- residents.

In addition, the Park and Recreation Department willfeature a two-week “Fitness Blast” session from August17th through August 28th. West Goshen residents canjoin this special session for $150. Residents of othermunicipalities can sign up for $160.

For more information about Adventure Boot Camp forWomen, visit www.greatvalleybootcamp.com. �

New!!! Summer Water WalkingWest Goshen Township is now able to offer summer sessions of the popular WaterWalking Program for seniors. Enjoy eight sessions of strength-building and aerobicexercises in the comfort of water at the ACAC Fitness and Wellness Center. Sessionstake place on Tuesdays and Thursdays between 1:00 and 1:45 PM. Choose from thefollowing months:

June 2009 July 2009 August 2009

Tuesday Thursday Tuesday Thursday Tuesday ThursdayJune 2 June 4 July 7 July 9 August 4 August 6June 9 June 11 July 14 July 16 August 11 August 13June 16 June 18 July 21 July 23 August 18 August 20June 23 June 25 July 28 July 30 August 25 August 27

The cost is $50 for a month of eight sessions. For more information, visitwww.westgoshen.org.

ACTIVITY GUIDE

ROAD RULES

Look in theSummer 2009 issue

of The West GoshenTownship Newsletter forinformation about Fall sessions for the followingpopular fitness programs:Adventure Boot Camp forWomen, Senior WaterWalking, and Yoga-Pilates. Toreceive monthly updates aboutfitness programs and otherPark and Recreation events,email Park and RecreationDirector Ken Lehr [email protected].

– 15 –

In each issue of the TownshipNewsletter, the West Goshen PoliceTraffic Safety Unit will provide infor-mation on sections of thePennsylvania Vehicle Code that mayinform readers on the requirements ofthese sections and the penalties forviolating these sections.

Did you know that bicycles are subject tothe Pennsylvania Vehicle Code? Chapter35 of the Pennsylvania Vehicle Codespecifically spells out that bicycle opera-tors must follow the same laws as motorvehicle drivers when on public roadways,including observance of stop signs andtraffic signals, riding on the right side ofthe road, the use of turn and brake signals(including hand signals when electronicsignals are not available), the requirementof a headlight when driving at night, andallowing traffic to pass on the left.Additionally, Chapter 35 contains lawsspecifically for bicycle operators, including:

• Section 3503: A parent or legalguardian of a minor may be heldresponsible if that child violates anyvehicle laws while operating a bike on apublic street. Parents may be responsiblefor civil damages if their child is involved inan accident while violating vehicle laws.

• Section 3504: The number of passen-gers on a bicycle may not exceed thenumber of seats (including securelyattached child-carriers) on the bike.Passengers on handlebars, bike pegs, or inan adult’s lap are prohibited.

• Section 3505(b): On roads with shoul-ders, bicycle operators may ride in theshoulder in the same traffic direction asthe adjacent vehicle lane. See Section3511 for restrictions about riding in theshoulder of freeways such as Route 202.

• Section 3505(e): Bicyclists shall notride more than two abreast on road-ways. This provision does not apply todedicated bike paths wide enough for mul-tiple bikes.

• Section 3506: Bicycle operators mustkeep at least one hand on the handle-bars while riding. Packages, bundles, orarticles requiring the use of two handswhile riding are expressly prohibited.

• Section 3507(a): In addition to a head-light that must be visible for a minimumof 500 feet to the front, a red reflectorvisible to a minimum distance of 500feet must be mounted on the rear of abike used for nighttime riding. In addi-tion, bicycles used at night need to beequipped with amber reflectors on theleft and right sides. Additional whitefront and red rear flashing lights may beadded to increase visibility. The bicycleoperator may wear the lights providedthey meet the minimum distancerequirements. Lights and reflectors serveprimarily to make the bicyclist visible toother vehicles and secondarily to illuminatethe bicyclist’s path.

• Section 3508: Anyone riding a bicycleon a sidewalk must surrender right-of-way to pedestrians. Bicyclists must givean audible signal prior to passing pedes-trians or other bicycle operators.Proper etiquette is to announce “Passing tothe left” prior to overtaking a pedestrian orcyclist. Bicycles are prohibited on sidewalks in business districts unlesspermitted by traffic control devices orif a sidewalk has a designated bicycle-only lane.

• Section 3510: Any person under 12must wear a bicycle helmet meetingnational standards for safety and pro-tection when operating or riding as apassenger on a bicycle, in a mountedbicycle restraining seat, or when towedin a bicycle trailer. The PennsylvaniaDepartment of Transportation strongly rec-ommends that all riders wear helmetswhen operating a bicycle.

• Section 3511: Bicycles are prohibitedon freeways without prior written permission by the PennsylvaniaDepartment of Transportation. If per-mission is granted, bicycle use would berestricted to road shoulders wheneverpracticable. Anyone seeking permission tobike on a freeway must write a request tothe Department of Transportation indicat-ing the lack of reasonable alternativeroutes. Requests can only be made bybicycle operators 18 years old or older, or16 years of age or older if accompanied byanother bicyclist 18 or older.

2008 District CourtCasesPennsylvania’s Magisterial District Court15-2-03 encompasses West GoshenTownship and the townships of Westtownand Thornbury. In 2008, MagisterialDistrict Judge William Kraut handled6,474 cases, an increase from the 5,910caseload for 2007. The breakdown of the2008 cases is as follows:

• 357 criminal cases• 1,335 summary cases• 4,257 traffic cases• 525 civil cases

The Magisterial District Court collected$1,069,862.00 in fines. Of that, WestGoshen Township received $150,701.29.

More than 90% of all litigation inPennsylvania occurs in the courtrooms ofMagisterial District Judges. ChesterCounty has nineteen Magisterial Courts.All summary misdemeanor and felonycases originate at the Magisterial DistrictCourt level. Magisterial District Courtsare also the venue for lawsuits in civilcases for amounts up to $8,000 as well asthe filing and disposition of minor criminalcases such as traffic violations, disorderlyconduct, public drunkenness, truancy,game law violations, and parking tickets.Magisterial District Judges are responsiblefor conducting preliminary hearings for allserious criminal offenders to determinewhich cases should be held for trial at theCourt of Common Pleas, and for settingand accepting bail and arraigning defen-dants after arrest.

The Pennsylvania Legislature is consider-ing legislation to increase MagisterialDistrict Courts jurisdictional limits in civilmatters from $8,000 to $15,000. Ifpassed, this legislation would greatlyincrease the number of cases heard byMagisterial District Courts.

Judge Kraut encourages suggestions onmaking the court run more efficiently andfeedback on ways to better serve thepublic. However, his office can not offercomment on any cases to be heard by theDistrict, and he and his staff may not givelegal advice to the public. For more information about Magisterial DistrictCourt 15-2-03, visitwww.chesco.org/judgekraut or call610-436-5757. �

“Part of Our Community” highlights local businesses, organizations, and peoplewho make a difference in the community. To submit ideas for future columns,please email Newsletter Editor Ken Lehr at [email protected].

– 16 –

In 2008, readers of The PhiladelphiaInquirer were asked to determine thebest place in the Delaware Valley to get apet. The number one choice recom-mended by readers also happens to bethe largest source of pets in ChesterCounty, located right here in WestGoshen Township.

The Chester CountySociety for Preventionof Cruelty to Animals(SPCA), founded in1929, promotes the welfare and humanetreatment of animalsand advocates on theirbehalf. The independentnonprofit organizationtakes in more than4,000 animals each year

at its facility on Phoenixville Pike, andoffers programs aimed at preventing andremedying the causes of animal problemsthroughout the County.

The Chester County SPCA’s three-acrefacility includes a kennel which canhouse over 100 animals, an isolationward for animals that need special treat-ment, a lawn for dog walking, an outdoorpuppy playpen area, and administrativeoffices. Additionally, the Chester CountySPCA has three animal ambulances topick up confined cases of stray orinjured animals and to transport animalsfor veterinary care.

According to Executive Director SusanB. Spackman, the Chester County SPCAtakes in all kinds of small animals, includ-ing dogs, cats, rodents, ferrets, lizards,snakes, birds, goats, and pigs. Exotic animals that have been housed at theChester County SPCA include iguanas,peacocks, a rhea, and an emu.

The majority of animals at the ChesterCounty SPCA are pets turned in by theirowners. “The number one reason animals end up in shelters is unrealisticexpectations,” says Spackman. All toofrequently, people adopt pets that do notfit their lifestyles, leading to problems forboth pet and owner. Changes in lifestyle,such as a change in health, divorce, lossof job, allergies, or a need to move oftenlead people to surrender their pets. Insome instances, parents may take in apet to teach their children lessons aboutresponsibility—only to subsequently findthat neither child nor parent are ade-quately caring for the animal. “It’s not agood idea to teach a kid responsibilityfor pets,” says Spackman, recommendinginstead that families adopt pets only ifthe parents are committed to the animals’ welfare.

Stray animals also constitute a large partof the Chester County SPCA’s animalintakes. These animals may be turned inby concerned citizens or local police.Animal control officers from the ChesterCounty SPCA may be called on to trans-port stray animals who are confined inan area by a fence or other method. TheChester County SPCA will attempt tocontact owners for animals with tags ormicrochips. In some cases, owners willnotify the Chester County SPCA if theirpets are missing. The Chester CountySPCA may also try to match animalsturned in with fliers advertising missingpets. The majority of strays, however, arenever reunited with their owners.

The Chester County SPCA has foursworn Humane Society Police Officerson its staff who work with local policedepartments on animal-related issues.They are trained in animal law and havepractical knowledge related to animals,such as dealing with aggressive dogs. TheChester County SPCA Humane SocietyPolice Officers have investigative powersto pursue complaints of animal mistreat-ment. Humane Society Officers may be

called into court to testify for mistreatedanimals. Aggressive or abused animalsmay be turned over to the care of theChester County SPCA. In 2008, 69 animals were taken in by the SPCA incases of humane acquisition.

The Chester County SPCA may alsotemporarily house animals in emergencysituations, such as in the case of a housefire, until the owners are able to care fortheir pets again.

The Chester County SPCA boasts an80% adoption rate for animals rated asadoptable entering the shelter. Someanimals are transferred to animal rescueorganizations dedicated to specificbreeds. Unfortunately, some animalsneed to be euthanized for health rea-sons, if the animal is overly aggressive, orif it has a wound of unknown origin.Additionally, as part of its service to thepublic, the Chester County SPCA willhelp owners put down their pets whoare in advanced stages of illness. TheChester County SPCA may euthanizeanimals that they are unable to find permanent homes for if they need spacefor additional animals, althoughSpackman indicates that they try toavoid this option as long as they can, notautomatically eliminating animals after apredetermined stay there. “If we havethe space here, we’ll keep them as longas we can,” says Spackman. “Some ani-mals have stayed with us for more thansix months.”

By law, the Chester County SPCA musthold dogs at least 48 hours after theyare turned in, to give owners a chance toclaim their missing pets. By their ownestablished policy, the Chester CountySPCA holds animals a minimum of 72hours.

To help care for the animals, the ChesterCounty SPCA employs a staff of 25-28employees. Susan Spackman, who hasbeen involved with the Chester County

KPart of Our Community

SPCA since the early 1970’s andExecutive Director since 1994, describesthe staff as “mission driven.”

“They care about helping animals,” saysSpackman. “They’re all animal lovers. Itreally is a dedicated staff of unsungheroes.”

Additionally, hundreds of volunteersassist with tasks such as walking dogs,exercising and playing with cats, helpingwith fundraising and events, and repre-senting the Chester County SPCA atevents and pet supply stores. The non-profit is overseen by an eleven-memberboard of directors selected from profes-sionals throughout the community. For2006-2007, the Chester County SPCAwas name the Great Valley Chamber ofCommerce Nonprofit of the Year.

Fundraisers held throughout the yearinclude the May Walk for Paws, the JuneGarden Party, September’s Horse Showat the Radnor Hunt Pony Club grounds,and pet photos with Santa and theEaster Bunny.

The Chester County SPCA is alwayslooking for animal lovers to adopt pets.The nonprofit collaborates with theChester County Daily Local News tofeature a “Pet of the Week,” bringingadded attention to the cause of animaladoption.

Anyone interested in adopting an animalfrom the Chester County SPCA wouldfirst meet with a pet adoption counselorand complete an adoption informationsheet. A prospective pet owner would

visit the animal prior to adoption todetermine temperament and compati -bility. Spackman points out that theChester County SPCA does not keepwaiting lists for specific breeds, so any-one looking for a specific type of cat ordog is advised to check back regularly.All animals are implanted with an identi-fication microchip before adoption.

Adoption fees are $100 for dogs and$75 for cats.“It really is a great place to get a newfriend,” says Spackman.

To learn more about the Chester CountySPCA visit www.ccspca.org. To adopta pet, report a missing pet, or to volun-teer, call 610-692-6113. �

– 17 –

Top 3 Myths About theChester County SPCA:

• The SPCA is a governmentagency. Fact: Chester CountySPCA is a nonprofit organiza-tion.• The SPCA is supported throughtaxes. Fact: Neither munici-pal, county, nor state taxes arecollected for the ChesterCounty SPCA. The bulk ofthe funding comes from dona-tions, fundraising events,bequests, animal adoption fees,and grants.• The Chester County SPCA is abranch of the American SPCA.Fact: The Chester CountySPCA is independent of theAmerican SPCA or any otheranimal welfare organization.

Chester County SPCAby the Numbers

In 2008, the Chester CountySPCA sheltered 4,482 animals.• 69 were acquired by humaneacquisition.• 1,990 were strays.• 2,423 were relinquished bytheir owners.

4,459 animals were releasedfrom the Chester County SPCAin 2008 by the following

methods:• 1,584 were adopted. This represents a 17% increase insuccessful adoptions from2007.• 620 were strays reclaimed bytheir owners.• 73 were transferred to otheranimal rescue organizations.• 2,182 were euthanized.

Advice for Pet Ownersfrom the ChesterCounty SPCA

• Do not adopt a pet to teach achild responsibility. Parentsshould only get a pet if theythemselves are willing to takeresponsibility for the animal’swelfare.• Keep all cats inside. Outdoorcats are subject to attacksfrom other animals, diseases,and the chance of escaping andbecoming pregnant or feral.• Have your veterinarian tagyour pet with an identificationmicrochip, but do not use it asa substitute for traditional pettags.• Contact the Chester CountySPCA if your pet becomeslost. If your pet is turned in,the Chester County SPCA willthen be able to notify you.

In 2008, there was a 17% increase in successful adoptionsfrom 2007.

– 18 –

West Goshen Township is committed tokeeping its creeks and streams clean andsafe. You can do your part by followingthese guidelines:

DO• Plant trees and shrubs along yourstream. The roots of woody plantsstabilize the banks and reduce erosion.Trees and shrubs also shade and coolthe stream, which is better for fish.• Leave natural occurring debris,such as fallen logs, leaves, androcks in place in your stream. Instream debris provides shelter and foodfor aquatic life.• Limit your use of yard fertilizersand chemicals, and maintain septictanks in good condition. Lawn

chemicals and septic tank pollutantseasily find their way into streams andcan kill insects, fish, frogs, birds, andplants.• Maintain or create buffer zones(the wider the better) alongstreams or wetlands. Buffer zonesabsorb water and filter out lawn chemicals, fertilizers, and sediment.

DON’T• Remove native vegetation fromstream banks. Leaf litter from nativeplants is part of the aquatic food chain.• Dump swimming pool water orsoapy water directly into streamsor storm sewers. Storm sewers rundirectly into streams, where chlorineand detergents harm fish and plants.

• Mow your lawn right up to thestream. Turf does not make a goodbuffer. It sheds water, especially onslopes, and its shallow roots do nothold the soil as well as native grasses,trees, or shrubs.• Throw grass clippings or yardwaste into the stream. Grass clip-pings and debris reduce oxygen in thestream, killing fish and other aquatic life.Compost yard waste instead.• Dump oil, antifreeze, or othertoxic chemicals into streams orsewers. Dispose of these chemicals atapproved disposal centers. �

Source: Chester Ridley Crum WatershedsAssociation

ROONIE SAYS…

By taking the time to learn some basics of canine bodylanguage, you can help make sure you, your dogs, yourchildren, and others have a fun and safe visit to Roonie’sCanine Corner.

A playful or happy dog tends to have raised ears, arelaxed body, a wagging tail, a relaxed open mouth butwith lips covering its teeth (not pulled back). Dogs fre-quently will hang their tongues outside of their mouthswhen happy or relaxed. A dog looking to play may lookat the person or dog its wants to play with and crouchthe front half of its body in a play bow.

A fearful dog will have its ears laid flat againstits head, its tail tucked down often betweenits legs, and a tight, crouched, possibly trem-bling body.

Aggressive dogs are likely to bear their teethby pulling their lips back and keep their earseither forward or back close to their heads.Canine behavioral experts differentiatebetween “Defensive Aggressive” and “OffensiveAggressive” body language. A dog exhibitingdefensively aggressive body language (oftenwhen a dog is scared), may slink close to theground then suddenly snap. A dog exhibitingthis behavior may whine or moan. An offen-sive aggressive dog will stand upright and

tense with a stiff high tail and hackles on the neck raised.A dog exhibiting this behavior is likely to snarl, growl orbark.

If your dog is displaying fearful or aggressive body lan-guage, remove it from the dogpark IMMEDIATELY, as itposes a danger to visitors, other dogs, and itself. Pleasenote that this does not mean that your dog is bad orgenerally aggressive, just that it is not enjoying its interac-tion with other dogs or people at that time and setting.If you encounter a dog exhibiting fearful or aggressivetendencies, do not approach that dog. Instead, alert the

dog’s owner. Because dogs are pack animals who areused to familiar hierarchical social structures, thefearful or aggressive dog is more likely to obey itsowner and will pose less threat to its owner than itwould to a stranger.

Remember, you are not doing an unhappy dog afavor by forcing it to be with other dogs or people.

Roonie, the West Goshen Township Westie andnamesake of Roonie’s Canine Corner at RobertE. Lambert Park, offers advice for dog ownersand users of the dogpark in each issue of theTownship Newsletter.

The Do’s and Don’ts of Stream Maintenance

– 19 –

Fireworks Safety 101

Safety Tips by Fire Marshal Andrea Testa

According to The Consumer ProductSafety Commission, an estimated 9,700people were treated in emergencyrooms for injuries associated with fireworks in 2007. Most of those werechildren under the age of 15. Accordingto statistics, sparklers are the secondhighest cause of fireworks-relatedinjuries requiring trips to the emergency room. With the potential ofheating up to 1800 degrees Fahrenheit,sparklers can set fire to clothes, hairand even homes. The National FireProtection Association estimates thatlocal fire departments respond to morethan 50,000 fires caused by fireworksevery year.

Here are some safety tips to keepin mind:• Do not let your child play with fireworks. • Exercise caution with sparklers. Theycan potentially catch clothing and hairon fire, and cause serious burns toskin. • Never attempt to make your ownfireworks. • Never light fireworks or sparklersindoors.• Read and follow all warnings and

instructions.• Be sure other people are out ofrange before lighting fireworks.• Only light fireworks on a smooth, flatsurface away from the house, dryleaves, and flammable materials.• Never try to relight fireworks thathave not fully functioned.• Have water handy if you are aroundfireworks.

If an injury occurs:• Stay calm, and keep your child as calmas possible. • If your clothes catch on fire, lie onthe ground, cover your face with yourhands, and roll. Make sure your childknows how to do this. Seek medicalhelp for burns. • If an eye injury occurs from a fire-works explosion, do not rub, rinse, orself-medicate the eye. Seek medicalhelp immediately, even if the injuryseems mild.

The best thing you can do to protectyourself and your child is not to useany fireworks at home. Attend publicfireworks displays, and leave the lightingto the professionals. �

The following fireworks AREallowed in West GoshenTownship:

• Sparklers• Snaps• Party poppers• Snakes

The following are NOT permitted in West GoshenTownship:

• Roman candles• Firecrackers• Skyrockets• Any aerial fireworks

Be familiar with West Goshen’s fireworks laws!

Contact Fire Marshal Andrea Testa at 610-696-5266 if you are notsure of the legality of any fireworks.

Door-to-door solicitationsor any sales taking placeon public streets areonly permitted in WestGoshen Township if thevendor has a license issuedby the West Goshen PoliceDepartment. Vendors are required tocarry this license with them, so if youare not sure about someone solicitingat your home, ask to see his or herlicense. By law, a salesperson maynot enter someone’s dwelling withoutthe occupant’s prior permission, andis required to vacate the premisesimmediately if requested to do so.Sales to private residences or on public streets may only take placebetween 8:00 AM and sunset,Mondays through Saturdays. A sales license is not required forfarmers selling items grown on theirown farms from a truck or othervehicle; any honorably discharged soldier, sailor, or marine of the U.S.military or naval service who residesin Pennsylvania; realtors or insuranceor securities brokers and salesmenwho are already licensed by theCommonwealth of Pennsylvania forsuch sales solicitations; or for anyonefundraising for a nonprofit organiza-tion. Individuals fundraising for anonprofit must have written evidencethat they are authorized by the non-profit to collect on its behalf.

Please note that door-to-door politi-cal canvassing is protected politicalspeech, and not subject to licensing,provided that the canvassing does notinclude fundraising. �

The Rules forDoor to Door

1025 Paoli PikeWest Chester, PA 19380Mondays - Thursdays7:00 AM - 5:00 PM610.696.5266(fax) [email protected]

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WESTGOSHENTownship Newsletter • Volume 18 No. 4Spring 2009

INSIDE THIS ISSUE:

New Public Works Garage..........................................1New Parking Ordinance ..............................................1Applicants Sought for Planning Commission..........1Subdivision and Land Development..........................2Public Township Meetings............................................3Trash, Recyclables, and Hazardous Items Disposal...........................................4Institutional Recycling Requirements in West Goshen Township ...............................................6Spring and Summer at a Glance ................................7New York Trip ................................................................8Trips to Yankee Stadium, Citi Field, and More ........8Midsummer Night’s Dream Performance ...................................................................8Summer Concert Series ..............................................9Summer Fun for Children 5-12 Years Old .............................................................10Sports Clinics...............................................................10Teen-Aged Fun.............................................................11July 4th Parade.............................................................11Skatepark Updates......................................................12Keep Your Employees Fit...........................................13Summer Water Walking.............................................14Adventure Boot Camp for Women........................14Road Rules....................................................................152008 District Court Cases.......................................15Chester County SPCA ..............................................16Roonie Says ..................................................................18The Do’s and Don’ts of Stream Maintenance......18Safety Tips From Fire Marshal Andrea Testa .........19The Rules for Door to Door ..................................19

Senior Trash Rebate ProgramSenior Citizens in West Goshen Township may be eligible toparticipate in the Township’s Trash Rebate Program. To qualify,registrants for the program must meet the following requirements:

1. Qualified applicants must be 65 or older as of December 31, 2008.

2. Applicants’ 2008 household income, including 50% of Social Security payments, must equal $35,000 or less.

3. Applicants need to receive a Pennsylvania PropertyTax/Rent Rebate check for the year 2008. The deadline forthe 2008 Pennsylvania Property Tax/Rent Rebate programis June 30, 2009. Applications for the Pennsylvania Tax/RentRebate Program may be obtained from the ChesterCounty Department of Aging Services, 601 WesttownRoad, Suite 320, West Chester, PA 19382 (610-344-6350),or from West Goshen Township (610-696-5266, ext. 4107).When you receive the Pennsylvania Property Tax/RentRebate, please make a copy of that check and retain it foryour records, as you will need to attach it to your WestGoshen Township Trash Rebate Program Application.

4. Applicants must submit a completed Trash Rebate Program application to West Goshen Township byOctober 31, 2009.

If this is your first time applying for the West Goshen TownshipTrash Rebate Program, bring a copy of your PennsylvaniaProperty Tax/Rent Rebate check to the Township as soon asyou receive it to make sure you are added to the mailing list fora Trash Rebate Application. �

Spring and Summer ActivityGuide inside, pages 7-14.