The Southern Chester County Chamber of Commerce is poised to offer an energy boost.
Ron DeGregorio
The group will hold its annual fall luncheon on Thursday, Oct. 20, beginning at 11 a.m. at Hartefeld National Golf Club in Avondale. The keynote speaker is Ron DeGregorio, senior vice president of Exelon Generation and president of Exelon Power. DeGregorio will present “Tomorrow’s Energy Industry: An Exelon Perspective,” according to a SCCCC press release.
The annual luncheon welcomes business and community leaders from across the region. The fee is $45 for members, $55 for non-members, and $395 for a table of eight. To register, visit www.scccc.com.
As president of Exelon Power, DeGregorio oversees the operations and maintenance of Exelon Generation’s fossil (coal, oil and natural gas), landfill gas, hydro, wind and solar-powered fleet of generating assets that are capable of generating more than 15,000 megawatts of electricity in 16 states and Alberta, Canada. DeGregorio also served as chief integration officer for Exelon during the company’s merger with Constellation Energy. In the position, he led the integration of all processes, procedures, systems, staffing, and synergies between the two companies, the release said.
In addition to his professional duties, DeGregorio also actively supports various charities in the Philadelphia area, including the United Way, and has served as an executive board member of the Tri-County Chamber of Commerce.
Sponsors of the event include Kendal-Crosslands Communities, WSFS Bank; Riley Riper Hollin & Colagreco Attorneys at Law; Cyron & Company, CPA; DNB First; Fulton Bank, Brandywine Division; Longwood Gardens; Cabot Kjellerup Realty Trust; Genesis; Jackson ImmunoResearch Laboratories; SERVPRO of Kennett Square and Oxford; The Tri-M Group, LLC; Communication Works Now; and Jennersville Regional Hospital, the release said.
The Southern Chester County Chamber of Commerce, the region’s leading pro-business member organization, is dedicated to the growth and development of its members and the business community by providing opportunities to connect businesses and support sustainable economic development. Founded in 1929 in Kennett Square, the chamber hosts more than 70 events and programs each year for its nearly 500 members.
Winterthur Museum, Garden & Library has received a $110,759 grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) for a project on preventive care for metal objects – protection that Winterthur deems its highest conservation treatment priority.
Senior Objects Conservator Bruno Pouliot (from right) works on silver objects with Kaitlin Andrews, a conservation technician; Curator of Decorative Arts Ann Wagner; and Maggie Bearden, a conservation technician, during the first phase of the grant-funded project.
“Winterthur has a reputation for thorough research into conservation methods that influence international standards,” Winterthur Senior Objects Conservator Bruno Pouliot said in a press release. “We hope that our continued work on methods to prevent silver and copper alloys from tarnishing will continue that tradition.”
Museum officials said they were excited and honored to receive the grant, which would help the museum maintain its premier collection of American metalwork, made between 1650 and 1900.
To help the general public care for heirlooms, Winterthur conservators will share the best practices that result from this research through public programs. Related grant activities include the creation of a web video demonstrating silver care that will be available on Winterthur’s website and a two-hour class on silver maintenance as part of Winterthur’s Caring for Family Treasures series, the release said.
Two technicians will be hired to treat approximately 500 silver objects in the two-year project, which starts later this fall. They will remove failing lacquer coatings and apply new ones on silver objects, while Winterthur conservators and scientists study where a more aggressive corrosion was found, as well as different options to protect from tarnishing objects made of copper alloys.
Many of Winterthur’s silver and copper alloy objects are displayed out in the open as part of the interpretation of Henry Francis du Pont’s home. As a result, natural low-level sulfur pollutants in the air, alongside ambient moisture, cause tarnishing. Lacquer coatings remain for now a proven method to inhibit tarnish for up to 30 years within the museum environment, the release said.
Regular polishing, even with the gentlest methods, removes some metal, eventually erasing shallow elements of the design or, for silver-plated items, exposing the base metal underneath. Winterthur implemented a comprehensive metal-coating campaign in 1982, and this program has continued uninterrupted, although with some modifications. Since the 1980s, a lacquer based on cellulose nitrate has been used on most silver and copper alloy objects, as it provides the best balance of minimal visual intrusion, stability, and tarnish protection, the release said.
Following extensive condition surveys in 2009 and 2015, Winterthur assessed the performance of these coatings and made recommendations about their application and long-term performance. This information was shared through the conservation profession, influencing the decisions made by many institutions internationally regarding their own metal-coating programs.
The collection at Winterthur includes approximately 2,900 silver and silver-plated objects and slightly more than 2,050 copper, brass, and bronze objects. The metal on most is preserved in polished condition, reflecting the historically accurate appearance from centuries past.
The 2009 survey of the silver collection revealed widespread lacquer failure, caused either by aging coating, application defects, the presence of moving parts such as hinged lids, or the complexity of surface topography. The copper alloy survey in 2015 confirmed similar issues, but also a possible interaction between some coatings and the metals, requiring research before a new coating can be chosen, the release said.
Because of its uninterrupted history of protective lacquer coatings on silver and copper alloys and access to sophisticated instrumental analysis, Winterthur is uniquely positioned to conduct and disseminate this research. Resources will include Winterthur’s labs and scientists, as well as other scientific and analytical resources at the University of Delaware, the release said.
Come meet all the wonderful animals available now for adoption at the Brandywine Valley SPCA. All featured pets are “Name Your Price” adoption fee until Monday, Oct. 17. Not ready to adopt? Then sponsor a pet and provide a safe place for our companions to rest until they find their forever homes. Help us give them a second chance at a fresh start.
Benny
BENNY
Hi folks, my name is Benny and I am a very handsome grey cat with adorable white paws. I’m a distinguished older gentleman who arrived at the Brandywine Valley SPCA after my family surrendered me when they moved. I’m here through no fault of my own, and I am anxiously waiting to see who my next family will be. I’m a social fellow who would make a great companion. I’m just looking for a loving home so I hope you will give me a chance. I am neutered, microchipped and up to date on vaccinations, so swing by to meet me.
BOOTS
Boots
Hey there. My name is Boots, and I am a stunning one year old medium hair cat who arrived at the Brandywine Valley SPCA as a stray in late August. I’m a friendly, docile young lad who has a pleasing and easy-going personality. I’m also quite the “fashionista” as well, what with my flowing hair and short white socks in the front and high white socks in the back. I don’t mind being picked up and I love to be stroked. I’m neutered, microchipped and up to date on vaccinations. If you are looking for an all-around awesome guy who has a curiosity about life, then I am your man.
Latoya
LATOYA
Hi, my name is Latoya and I am a gorgeous slate grey kitten that arrived at the Brandywine Valley SPCA as a stray. I’m a friendly girl who enjoys playtime and also enjoys downtime curled up on a bed, on a windowsill or on the couch next to you. I’ll even get comfy in blankets, pillowcases and bags, you name it. I get along with other cats, so if you already have one, perhaps you would like to make it two? I’m spayed, microchipped and up to date on vaccinations, so please come meet me! I’m ready for a home.
APACHE
Apache
Hi, my name is Apache, and I am a 6-year-old Catahoula/Chinese Shar-Pei mix who arrived at the Brandywine Valley SPCA after my family surrendered me. I am a strikingly handsome chap who is also smart, gentle and easy to walk on a leash. Some might say I am the total package. I know quite a few commands and am a volunteer favorite. I prefer a home with children high school age and older; little ones always underfoot make me a little nervous. I appear to be housebroken too. I am neutered, microchipped and up to date on vaccinations. Please come meet me.
Grindel
GRINDEL
Hi, my name is Grindel and I am a handsome 3-year-old terrier mix who arrived at the Brandywine Valley SPCA as a stray. I am a polite and friendly fellow who knows sit and stay. I am treat motivated so that means I will be easy to teach all kinds of cool tricks! I am dog friendly so please bring in your current dog to meet me. Also, in case you haven’t noticed, I am absolutely adorable…just saying. I’m neutered, microchipped and up to date on vaccinations. Please come meet me.
ROGER
Roger
Hey there! My name is Roger and I am a 5-year-old boxer mix who arrived at the Brandywine Valley SPCA as a stray. I’m a sweet, gentle chap looking for love. Might you have some to spare? I’m kind and easygoing and walk well on a leash. I know how to sit and stay as well! My friends say I make the funniest faces, but hey, that’s just me being me. As the weather turns colder I would love to find a family to cuddle up with and keep warm. I am neutered, microchipped and up to date on vaccinations, so I am ready to go home today.
The run for nature at ChesLen Chase for Open Space is Saturday, Oct. 22.
• The Delaware County Studio Tour, a free opportunity to visit 45 artists at work on Saturday, Oct. 15, and Sunday, Oct. 16, has charted three courses that will guide visitors across the county. While the final destination is the art, these routes are designed with the journey in mind, traversing rolling hills and scenic vistas. Bring the day full circle when you hang art you purchased in your home, remembering the experience and the day when art was everywhere. Three routes to all 17 studios can be viewed here.
• The Kennett Area Senior Center invites you to an afternoon “Sunday Dinner with Friends” on Sunday, Oct. 16, from 1 to 3 p.m. The theme is “Scarecrows & Pumpkins,” and features a delicious home-cooked meal from 1 to 2 p.m. Our live entertainment features local favorites, the Dixie Demons band and their great dance music between 2 and 3 p.m. The cost is $12 for KASC members, $14 for non-members. Call 610-444-4819 for reservations.
• The West Chester Downtown Foundation presents the sixth annual West Chester Preservation Awards Ceremony and Reception on Thursday, Oct. 20, at 5:30 p.m. at the Chester County Historical Society, 225 North High Street. The evening includes a light buffet, catered by Limoncello Ristorante & Caterers, plus a wine & beer bar. The Preservation Awards Program raises awareness and appreciation of West Chester’s significant historic character and encourages the preservation of its historic integrity. Tickets are $25 each and can be purchased here.
• Internationally known singer/songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, actress and community advocate for children Phoebe Legere will be performing at The Kennett Flash, at 8 p.m. on Oct. 21. Admission is $18 in advance and $22 day of show. For tickets, go to www.kennettflash.org, or phone 484-732-8295.
• The Concord Township Harvest Festival is Saturday, Oct. 22, from 1 to 4 p.m. at 40 Bethel Road. There will be a bake contest, dog costume contest, a children’s Halloween parade, hayrides, food for purchase and more. Those who want their baked goods to be judged should drop them off between 9 and 11 a.m. The dog costume contest begins at noon, and the parade steps off at 1:30 p.m.
• The Brandywine Conservancy & Museum of Art invites area residents 21 and over to throw caution to the wind, glitter in the air, and relive the fabulous disco era. The All Hallows’ Eve Costume Ball will be held on Saturday, Oct. 22, from 8 p.m. to 1 a.m. in the museum courtyard. Prizes will be awarded for the most creative costumes. Tickets include open bar, refreshments, music, costume contest and more. All proceeds raised will support programs of the Brandywine Conservancy & Museum of Art. To purchase tickets, go here.
• The Kennett Library is inviting the public to learn more about one of Kennett’s most famous residents. Author Keith Craig will discuss his latest book, “Herb Pennock: Baseball’s Faultless Pitcher,” a biography of Hall of Fame pitcher and Kennett Square native Herb Pennock, on Saturday, Oct. 22, at 2 p.m. Copies of the book will be available for purchase, and the Friends of the Kennett Library will be present with refreshments and information on how to volunteer at the library. For more information, click here.
• The Willistown Conservation Trust is inviting the public to Run-a-Muck on Oct. 22. The race and countryside bash will take place overlooking Kirkwood Preserve; parking will be available at 6114 Goshen Road, Newtown Square, Pa. Runners must preregister by the end of Oct. 19. Gates will open at 2:30 p.m., and activities will include live music, bonfire, stargazing, mechanical bull, beer, wine, and a country supper by Jimmy’s BBQ. Blankets are suggested and leashed dogs are welcome. For more information, visit http://www.wctrust.org/?page_id=3842.
• Natural Lands Trust invites you to run for nature at ChesLen Chase for Open Space on Saturday, Oct. 22. Proceeds from the event will benefit ChesLen Preserve — one of the largest private nature preserves in southeastern Pennsylvania. Participants can choose between three courses, a 10K run, a 5K run, and a 2-mile fun run-walk— all of which traverse ChesLen Preserve’s beautiful autumn landscapes. Registration is $45 for the 10K race, $35 for the 5K race, and $25 for the 2-mile fun run-walk. Runners receive a $5 discount if they register on or before October 7. Members of Natural Lands Trust receive an additional $5 discount. Learn more and register online at natlands.org/cheslenchase. ChesLen Preserve is at 1199 Cannery Road, Coatesville, is a 1,263-acre nature preserve owned and managed by Natural Lands Trust.
• Victory Brewing Company has brought back its popular Kirsch Gose beer in the Philadelphia region for the month of October to donate a portion of the proceeds to local breast cancer organizations. Kirsch Gose can be found at all three Victory brewpubs and craft beer bars throughout the area by looking for the bright pink V tap handle. Funds raised through the purchase of Kirsch Gose will benefit two Philadelphia-based breast cancer centers including Fox Chase Cancer Center and Living Beyond Breast Cancer. For more information, visit www.victorybeer.com.
• Happy Hillendale fun will happen at the annual Hillendale Husky Hustle 5K & Fun Run on Saturday, Oct. 29. Runners are encouraged to race in their costumes, and prizes will be given out for the craziest. The ¾-mile Fun Run is designed for younger students. Bring treats to the race for all to enjoy and prizes to compete for the most creative bakers. After the race, the fun will include inflatables, refreshments, music and dancing. Preregister by Saturday, Oct. 22 to be guaranteed a “Happy Hillendale” long-sleeve, spirit race shirt. Race day registration starts at 8 a.m., but shirts are limited to those who pre-registered. The 5K Race starts at 9 a.m. followed by the Fun Run. To pre-register, visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2016-hillendale-husky-hustle-5k-fun-run-tickets-27459959478 .
Brianna Yang of Garnet Valley (left) and Elizabeth Cocchiarale of Parkside (right) participate in an art project at the back-to-school party.
• Darlington Arts Center’s third annual Back to School Arts Party drew over 100 attendees on Saturday, Oct. 1. This event featured a teaching artist performance and art gallery, two community art projects, and food and refreshments as the community gathered to experience music, art, dance, and drama programs at the center. For those who were unable to attend, there’s still time to join fall classes for children and adults, and the center invites the community to attend upcoming free events including Preschool Halloween Open House on Monday, Oct. 31 at 10 a.m. Learn more at www.darlingtonarts.org.
• The Kennett Library is inviting the public to learn more about one of Kennett’s most famous residents. Author Keith Craig will discuss his latest book, “Herb Pennock: Baseball’s Faultless Pitcher,” a biography of Hall of Fame pitcher and Kennett Square native Herb Pennock, on Saturday, Oct. 22, at 2 p.m. Copies of the book will be available for purchase, and the Friends of the Kennett Library will be present with refreshments and information on how to volunteer at the library. For more information, click 