Community Calendar

Chadds Ford Elementary School Presents 72nd Annual Art Show Auction

New Virtual Format Featuring Artwork to Satisfy Every Taste and Budget

Chadds Ford Elementary School will present its 72nd Annual Art Show Auction March 18 through March 21, 2021.

The time-honored event will be conducted as a virtual silent auction this year.

To uphold the school’s annual tradition in the current climate, organizers have adopted a contemporary online platform through the website 32Auctions.com. This format will engage loyal and longstanding patrons, while also appealing to a broader audience.

The event will showcase more than 60 local and regional artists auctioning work in an array of mediums across palates and price points. Patrons may also bid on local services, as well as artisans’ crafts, including jewelry, wooden items, glass designs, and much more. Chadds Ford Elementary School families are eligible to bid on unique experiences with teachers and staff that will offer students opportunities for learning, fun.

Support local farms, food producers + artisans selling direct to the community through ALL seasons at KSQ Farmers Market! Throughout late fall + winter, we continue to have a seasonal variety of produce from local growers. Also, plenty of meats & poultry, cheese, milk, yogurt, baked goods, sourdough breads & bagels, honey, maple syrup, olive oil, soaps, and more! Plus a selection of prepared foods for easy meals at home.

CURRENT SEASONAL HOURS

(3-3:30pm) reserved for seniors & high-risk customers

(3:30-5pm) open to all

Shop responsibly! Masks are required, and we have plenty of space to practice safe distancing. Hand sanitizer is also provided at entry & exit.

The lineup of vendors varies some each market, so sign up for our newsletter on our website @ ksqfarmersmarket.com and follow us on Facebook & Instagram for the latest updates.

PREORDERS ARE WELCOMED by many vendors for easy pickup at market! Details & order deadlines are provided in the weekly newsletter. ALL vendors offer walk-up sales.

Delaware County Community College to Host Virtual STEM Career Day on March 25  

Interested in pursuing an exciting, rewarding career in the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics (STEM)? Delaware County Community College will hold a Virtual STEM Career Day with breakout sessions, panel discussions and a virtual escape room from 1 to 3 p.m., Thursday, March 25.

This virtual event will enable participants to learn about Pennsylvania high-priority, in-demand, family-sustaining wage occupations. It also will give participants information about the education and training necessary to attain these jobs, as well as provide insight into the many higher education opportunities available at Delaware County Community College for seamless transfer to area four-year colleges and universities. Prizes will be awarded during this event. 

To register, visit www.dccc.edu/stem-career-day or call 610-723-4000.

The Hickman Celebrates 130 Year Anniversary

The Hickman Friends Senior Community of West Chester will be celebrating its 130-year anniversary on Thursday, April 1^st.  Please join us from 6 to 7 pm at the entrance of the Anna T. Jeanes Building for delicious chef prepared cupcakes, refreshments, and music!

The founding mission of The Hickman has always been its commitment to ensure that seniors in the community who need a supportive living environment, will always have one right here in West Chester.  Throughout our history, we have adapted, grown, and faced challenges with foresight and confidence. As we cautiously emerge from the pandemic, we are focused on the emotional well-being of our residents through family interaction, resumption of group activities, and the comfort of The Hickman community.  We are grateful partners of the “Quaker Block” in partnership with the West Chester Friends Meeting and West Chester Friends School, which, along with our long-standing relationship with the West Chester community, has enhanced the lives of our residents.  The Leadership Team is extremely optimistic for the future of all things Hickman!

The Hickman Friends Senior Community of West Chester, founded by Lydia Hall and Sallie Sharpless in 1891, provides comfortable and caring accommodations for seniors in West Chester, PA. Led by Quaker traditions and principles, The Hickman is based on a rental model, which enables seniors to easily choose a safe and thriving personal care community as their home without onerous upfront costs.

If you are interested in knowing more about what the Hickman can provide for you or a loved one, please contact us.  To provide support for The Hickman in its mission, please consider a donation.  For additional information, please visit our website at: www.thehickman.org or call (484) 760-6300.

Support local farms, food producers + artisans selling direct to the community through ALL seasons at KSQ Farmers Market! Throughout late fall + winter, we continue to have a seasonal variety of produce from local growers. Also, plenty of meats & poultry, cheese, milk, yogurt, baked goods, sourdough breads & bagels, honey, maple syrup, olive oil, soaps, and more! Plus a selection of prepared foods for easy meals at home.

CURRENT SEASONAL HOURS

(3-3:30pm) reserved for seniors & high-risk customers

(3:30-5pm) open to all

Shop responsibly! Masks are required, and we have plenty of space to practice safe distancing. Hand sanitizer is also provided at entry & exit.

The lineup of vendors varies some each market, so sign up for our newsletter on our website @ ksqfarmersmarket.com and follow us on Facebook & Instagram for the latest updates.

PREORDERS ARE WELCOMED by many vendors for easy pickup at market! Details & order deadlines are provided in the weekly newsletter. ALL vendors offer walk-up sales.

Art Stroll Kennett Square

https://historickennettsquare.com/

Art Loop Wilmington

http://artloopwilmington.org/

First Friday West Chester

http://www.downtownwestchester.com/view_program.php?id=468

Join a curator for an informal discussion of the Lady of the House exhibit, which tells the story of Ruth Wales du Pont and features a fabulous reproduction of her wedding dress, along with objects and images from the Winterthur archives. Included with admission. Members free.

This Weekend, Food Trucks & Live Music Every Night!

Thursday: 4-8 pm

Friday: Open 4-8 pm, Live Music from He & Diana 5-8pm,
Food Truck from Savannas Tender love and Fries

Saturday: Open 12-8pm, Live Music from Bella Von 2-5pm,
Food Truck by On the Roll

Sunday: Open 12-6pm, Live Music from Max & Denise 2-5 pm, Food Truck by Mezzaluna Wood Fired Pizza

Support local farms, food producers + artisans selling direct to the community through ALL seasons at KSQ Farmers Market! Throughout late fall + winter, we continue to have a seasonal variety of produce from local growers. Also, plenty of meats & poultry, cheese, milk, yogurt, baked goods, sourdough breads & bagels, honey, maple syrup, olive oil, soaps, and more! Plus a selection of prepared foods for easy meals at home.

CURRENT SEASONAL HOURS

(3-3:30pm) reserved for seniors & high-risk customers

(3:30-5pm) open to all

Shop responsibly! Masks are required, and we have plenty of space to practice safe distancing. Hand sanitizer is also provided at entry & exit.

The lineup of vendors varies some each market, so sign up for our newsletter on our website @ ksqfarmersmarket.com and follow us on Facebook & Instagram for the latest updates.

PREORDERS ARE WELCOMED by many vendors for easy pickup at market! Details & order deadlines are provided in the weekly newsletter. ALL vendors offer walk-up sales.

HENRY WINKLER is Special Guest on April 17 as Part of West Chester University’s Annual Fundraising Gala

On Saturday, April 17 at 8 p.m., West Chester University President Christopher Fiorentino, and wife Susan Fiorentino, will host a virtual conversation with award-winning actor, director, producer, and writer, HENRY WINKLER. The evening of entertainment is part of West Chester University’s 38^th Annual Presidential Scholarship Community Gala – the 2021: G.A.L.A. $50 provides household log-in access to the event. A more intimate, post-event meet and greet where buyers can interact with Winkler in small-group breakout rooms is available for an additional $150. Tickets are purchasable at http://go.wcufoundation.org/events/gala. For more information, contact the Events Office at [email protected].

Through humorous anecdotes and inspirational life lessons about overcoming adversity, to tales of a storied career in television and entertainment, groups of all ages will leave Winkler’s presentation inspired and entertained. Winkler’s passion for supporting others is the result of a lifetime struggle with undiagnosed dyslexia, and Winkler has worked tirelessly to bring awareness and support to children who learn differently by advocating for changes in the education system and informing parents and teachers about learning challenges.

Each year, the West Chester University gala draws more than 300 members of the community to an event that is dedicated to the continued academic success of West Chester University students. Since its inception in 1983, the benefit has raised more than $1.2 million dollars for West Chester University students through a renewable, four-year Presidential Scholarship, which is designed to provide financial assistance to students who have demonstrated a commitment to academic excellence.

Chester County to Hold Virtual Open Space Summit
Celebration of county’s open space preservation achievements scheduled for 6:30 p.m. on April 29 th

WEST CHESTER, PA_ Chester County Commissioners Marian Moskowitz, Josh Maxwell and Michelle Kichline, along with leaders of Chester County’s Planning Commission and Parks + Preservation, are hosting the annual Open Space Summit on Thursday, April 29, 2021.
The Summit includes a report on Chester County’s 2020 open space preservation achievements and ongoing commitment to the program, and will take place via Zoom from 6:30pm - 8:00pm. Chester County Commissioners’ Chair Marian Moskowitz said, “Throughout this pandemic, Chester County’s protected open spaces have been a haven for thousands of people to safely visit
and enjoy, and have helped to not only improve our physical health, but provide a remedy for our
emotional and mental well-being too.

“Anyone who wants to find out more about the true value of preserving open space in Chester County, and how their own local community can contribute, should ‘attend’ the summit.” Each year, the Chester County Planning Commission inventories and maps all protected open
space in the county through its Protected Open Space Tracking (POST) system. Last year, it was reported that a total of 142,000 acres of open space, or 29.3% of the county was protected over the course of 2019. This year, the findings indicate that the addition of 2,100 acres protected in 2020 brings Chester County to 144,000 acres of open space, or 29.7% of the county’s land.

“We are inching closer to Chester County’s current goal of 32% protected open space, which is amazing,” said Chester County Commissioner Josh Maxwell.  “The benefits of our 32-year commitment to preserving our fields, forests and farms have increased the quality of life for all
of us, environmentally and economically – way beyond what was imagined back in 1989, when the program began.”
The 2021 Open Space Summit will provide an overview of preserved land data, followed by presentations about what Chester County’s towns and townships can do to protect open space within their own communities. Topics will include information on open space tools (implementing zoning ordinances and other programs) as well as outreach. A question and answer session, along with break-out group discussions about Municipal Open Space Funds, Agricultural Preservation, and Conservation Tools, will conclude the summit.
Chester County Commissioner Michelle Kichline said, “A key part of the success of Chester County’s open space program is partnership, especially with our many conservancies and our municipalities. As we look to expand the network of protected open space, we will focus on
connecting larger expanses of preserved lands, and ensuring that protected open space and working lands are appropriately managed.
“These actions will help us to meet environmental goals, and contribute to the continued health and well-being of everyone who chooses Chester County as their home.” To register for the 2021 Open Space Summit, visit
https://zoom.us/meeting/register/tJwsduqpqj8qH9GmANRGE8p4C8iGrdLvtNtt.
To learn more about Open Space initiatives in Chester County, visit
https://chescoplanning.org/OpenSpace/OpenSpace.cfm.

Support local farms, food producers + artisans selling direct to the community through ALL seasons at KSQ Farmers Market! Throughout late fall + winter, we continue to have a seasonal variety of produce from local growers. Also, plenty of meats & poultry, cheese, milk, yogurt, baked goods, sourdough breads & bagels, honey, maple syrup, olive oil, soaps, and more! Plus a selection of prepared foods for easy meals at home.

CURRENT SEASONAL HOURS

(3-3:30pm) reserved for seniors & high-risk customers

(3:30-5pm) open to all

Shop responsibly! Masks are required, and we have plenty of space to practice safe distancing. Hand sanitizer is also provided at entry & exit.

The lineup of vendors varies some each market, so sign up for our newsletter on our website @ ksqfarmersmarket.com and follow us on Facebook & Instagram for the latest updates.

PREORDERS ARE WELCOMED by many vendors for easy pickup at market! Details & order deadlines are provided in the weekly newsletter. ALL vendors offer walk-up sales.

Webpage: http://www.ccarts.org/artisans-show/ 

CCArts transforms outdoor field into a marketplace of fine handcrafted gifts & delicious food once a month to support local artists  and food vendors.  

The Center for the Creative Arts launches a monthly outdoor market on Sunday, May 2, 2021 11am-3pm. “It is our hope that this  farmers market meets artisan show will become a community gathering place that nourishes people’s bodies and spirits with food  and art,” says Jennifer Hartz, CCArts Program Director and Market Coordinator. “When Jennifer brought this idea to one of our staff  meetings, I was really excited to support it. We have heard from so many of our working artist colleagues that 2020 and the  beginning of 2021 has been a difficult time since so many shows have been cancelled,” stated Melissa Paolercio CCArts Executive  Director. “Art shows and craft fairs are a huge revenue driver for so many local artists. We knew we wanted to do our part to  support them and what better way to invite our community back to campus then with a socially-distanced outdoor event.”  

“The majority of the vendors are Delaware-based and will be selling handmade fine art and crafts including ceramics, jewelry,  felting, turned wood, painting and more. There will also be food vendors selling baked goods and local honey,” says Hartz. 

Artists include: Stephanie Atkins (Mink’s Signature Foods & Desserts), Elisabeth Bard, Zachary Bloom (Zachary Bloom Jewelry  Designs), Damaris Colon (London Rock Art), Sue Ann Cox (The Fairy Potter), Christina Fabris and Joseph Csoltko (Iris and Callisto’s  Apiary), Pam Horstmann (Painted Threads), Bethann C. Kelleher (BBK Ceramics), Becki Mott-Lynn (Flossie’s Umbrella), Stephanie  Przybylek (Creative Animal), Valerie Walton (Val Walton Art), Abe & Bonnie Warren (Handcrafted by Abraham Warren), Patricia  Whitman (Links and Pearls). The Center for the Creative Arts (CCARTS) is located at 410 Upper Snuff Mill Row and Rt. 82, Yorklyn, DE.  For more information about CCArts, visit the website at www.ccarts.org, or call the center at 302-239-2434.

CCArts has been offering classes in the fine and performing arts for over 40 years as well as art exhibits, community celebrations and  the popular Yorklyn Live: Open Mic Night. The summer program serves 800 or more children over ten weeks each year and offers  scholarships to children in need. This program is supported, in part, by a grant from the Delaware Division of the Arts, a state  agency, in partnership with the National Endowment for the Arts. The Division promotes Delaware arts events on  www.DelawareScene.com  

Artist Andrew Wyeth’s model and confidante Helen Sipala has released a book written from diaries she kept of conversations with the famous American artist. The book, Beyond the MARRIAGE Bed: My Years as Friend, Model and Confidante of Andrew Wyeth, was published this month by Regent Press of Berkeley, Calif.

Beyond the MARRIAGE Bed is an intimate look at Andrew Wyeth the artist and the man and his close relationship with Helen Sipala, model and confidante. The book gives a rare glimpse into the world of a true and talented artist through Helen’s 20-year diary. Wyeth didn’t want his life “sugar-coated” and Helen didn’t do so.

Helen Sipala’s memoirs as a long-time friend of Andrew Wyeth.

An Amazon review stated, “The book dives into the good, the bad, and the ugly. It reveals a heartfelt personal account of friendship, wealth, love, folly, infatuation, heartache, hardship, and tearful moments among the buttercups. An eye-opener and page-turner!”

A book signing will take place on May 5 from 6 to 8 p.m. at Barbara Moore Fine Art, Chadds Ford Village and Barn Shops, 1609 Baltimore Pike, Suite 400 A, Chadds Ford. The cost of the 200-page book is $29.95 The book can be obtained from Barbara Moore Fine Art, the Regent Press, http://www.regentpress.net/, or other social media book sites.

In March 1989, Helen and George Sipala met Wyeth after they purchased the Chadds Ford home known as Painter’s Folly. Renowned artist Howard Pyle used the home to teach art students, including Wyeth’s father, N. C. Wyeth. During the years, Andrew Wyeth visited Helen and George regularly, sharing meals. The trio became close friends. A sought-after Christmas invitation was Wyeth holiday parties hosted by Helen and George Sipala.

During their years of friendship, Andrew shared many private thoughts with Helen. Helen also observed Wyeth, an American master painter, as he created many of his masterpieces. Andrew invited the couple to major national and local art events. The couple’s home, especially the Widow’s Walk, was treated as a studio by Wyeth.

“Over the years, he stated several times that he hoped I ‘was writing all this down.’ You will see by my notes when this happened I never responded to him. It was a known fact Andy preferred that writers not make his stories ‘sweet’ but to ‘put an edge to it,’” as Helen wrote in her Introduction.

The dedication to Wyeth captures the sense of the book, “Yes Andy, I did write it down just as you “hoped” I would. I think you would be proud that the world now knows the REAL Andy:  sensitive, generous, compassionate, comical, humble, and a true gentleman!”

Helen worked with Chester County author Bruce E. Mowday on the manuscript and editing of the diary

Art Stroll Kennett Square

https://historickennettsquare.com/

Art Loop Wilmington

http://artloopwilmington.org/

First Friday West Chester

http://www.downtownwestchester.com/view_program.php?id=468

Author Bruce E. Mowday will give a presentation on his latest true crime book, Stealing Wyeth, on Friday evening at Radley Run Country Club.

The book details the theft of 15 paintings from the estate of Andrew Wyeth. The almost priceless works of art were buried, stored in junked cars and placed in an attic wall before being recovered.

“Radley Run is the perfect venue for the talk,” Mowday said. “The theft of the paintings took place close to the country club. Seven of the paintings were by Andrew Wyeth and six were by his son Jamie.”

The live presentation, with safety precautions, begins at 5:00 p.m. with a dinner buffet costing $25.00. For reservations, call 610-793-1660. Mowday’s talk begins at 6:00 p.m. Radley Run is located at 1100 Country Club Road, West Chester, PA 19382.

Signed books will be available for purchase. The cost of the book is $25.00.

Mowday is an award-winning author and newspaper reporter. He has authored 21 books on history, sports, business and true crime. Mowday has appeared on Counter Culture, a PBS Emmy-winning show, the Discovery ID channel, ReelZ network, C-SPAN, the Pennsylvania Cable Network, Hollywood and Beyond, Whatcha Got, Journey into the Civil War, Chronicles of the American Civil War and television shows. He is a frequent speaker at various civic and historical groups. The Congress of Civil War Round Tables has named Bruce a “5-Star” speaker.  Mowday has hosted his own radio shows, has been editor of magazines and was chairman of the Chester County Historical Society and president of the Brandywine Battlefield Park Associates. He is a former board member of the Valley Forge Park Alliance and the Chester County Conference and Visitors Bureau. For more information on Mowday, his books and his schedule of events, see www.mowday.com.

• The majority of our studios are private – so visitors are not present where hundreds of people have been.
• The layout of our studios lend themselves to easy social distancing practices, and all offer outstanding safety procedures including but not limited to hand sanitizer station.
• We are monitoring the current situation in Pennsylvania daily as it continues to evolve and following all state guidelines. We are committed to the safety and well being of our artists and patrons.

The Chadds Ford Historical Society’s Spring Art Show is Saturday, May 15, from 3 to 8 p.m. at Thornbury Farm. This is an outdoor event with live music, food, and beverages. The event is free, and all art sales benefit the Chadds Ford Historical Society. Thornbury Farm is located at 1256 Thornbury Road in Thornbury Township.

• The majority of our studios are private – so visitors are not present where hundreds of people have been.
• The layout of our studios lend themselves to easy social distancing practices, and all offer outstanding safety procedures including but not limited to hand sanitizer station.
• We are monitoring the current situation in Pennsylvania daily as it continues to evolve and following all state guidelines. We are committed to the safety and well being of our artists and patrons.

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