Set in Olde Bulltown Village is this charming 3BR, 2.2 BR home which combines the old with the new like cathedral ceilings, stunning main level primary suite, antique hardware, finished lower level and beautiful quarter sawn oak floors! The Great Room has a handsome fireplace, access to a covered porch & a wet bar.The kitchen has high-end appliances & handsome cabinetry. This wonderful property must be seen to fully appreciate its value, quality and location!
$1,585,000
Sought After West Bradford Location
You must see this 6800+/-sf, 5 BR, 3.2 bath home in a superior community!
The main level has formal LR & DR, hardwood floors, chef’s kitchen, soaring FR with fireplace, office, sunroom & deck access. The Primary Suite includes sitting room, bedroom, luxurious bath & large closet. The family BRs have easy access to baths. The finished Lower Level has a 26x42 Great Room, PR & a gym. The exterior is stone & Hardy board.
$1,189,000
Stellar Home with Elevator & Pool
This is the showcase property at French Creek Village. Upgrades abound wherever you look from the wainscoting & woodwork, to the custom fixtures with Austrian crystal & hand painted details, the two-story lightfilled entry, the custom kitchen & sunroom addition. You’l love the elevator connecting all floors, the fully finished basement with bedroom, full bath & bar area. The Primary Bedroom Suite has a custom bath & large walk-in closet. Lovely golf course location!
$885,000
Great Horse Farm in Unionville Schools
This delightful property features a charming 3BR, 2.1 BA home with a lowerlevel apartment and a well designed six-stall barn. The home has beautiful post & beam construction and a nice floor plan. The spacious living room features a cozy fireplace with marble facings and access to a patio. Equestrians will love the 10 acre setting with ample pasture and the Unionville equestrian area location. The farm is set in Unionville-Chads Ford Schools and enjoys low taxes!
$1,130,000
Wonderful Home with First Floor Primary Suite
Located down a long drive in a quiet community, sits this well kept 4 BR, 4.1 BA home on 3+ acres. The light-filled home has a terrific flow and features a well-appointed first floor primary suite and finished basement. Meticulously maintained and boasting superior landscaping with mature woodlands, this property offers an incredible lifestyle opportunity for the discerning buyer. Located in the Unionville-Chads Ford School District.
$933,000
House & Two Large Storage Buildings
Set on 12.4 acres, this property boasts a picturesque pond & a 3 BR, 2.1 Bath split-level home offering comfortable living space with room for updates. The Mechanic’s shop has 4 large, garage-style bays (measuring 18' x 35', 31' x 35', 24' x 30', and 24' x 50'), perfect for equipment, boats or RVs. The second outbuilding is a newer, approximately 36' x 60' pole barn, offering additional versatile space. Located in a desirable area with convenient access to Route 41 and the Route 1 corridor.
$735,000
Eagle Hill at “Crebilly Farm”
John Milner designed and Griffiths Construction created this 10,000 SF home combining timeless craftsmanship with modern luxury. Eagle Hill is seen on a gated 15.29 acres and was once part of the historic 322 acre “Crebilly Farm.” The home is perfectly set offering unparalleled privacy, breathtaking views, and direct access to 206 acres of conserved land with planned walking trails. This property offers refined elegance & modern functionality, all in an unrivaled setting.
$3,780,000
Tastefully Remodeled Home
This 4 BR, 3.1 BA home with 11 acres also has a charming barn apartment with 2 BR, 2 BA and is set on a great piece of land. The home’s main level has an open floor plan with beautiful marble flooring. The Kitchen offers high-end cabinetry and appliances plus overlooks the pool and terrace. The Primary Bedroom has a large walk-in closet and a wonderful bathroom. An indoor arena has been transformed into a spacious athletic space for enjoyment.
$2,850,000
Superior Family Compound with Four Living Units
This fabulous c.1886 house features 3 BR, 2.1 BA, great Kitchen and wonderful open floor plan. Additionally, the property has 3, one or two bedroom living units, making this an exciting opportunity for someone seeking a superior family compound! It is a short walk from the Brandywine Creek. This 3+ acre property boasts supper amenities. Mechanical systems have been updated. Unionville Schools. Low Taxes!
$1,698,000
Privately Set in Highly Protected Area
This may be one of the most architecturally distinct and amenity-rich homes on the market today. Privately set on 12 acres in an exclusive area in Unionville-Chadds Ford Schools is this spacious 5 BR, 3.2 BA home with a fabulous indoor pool! Chefs will love the gourmet Kitchen. The main level Primary Suite includes a bedroom, spa-like bath, 2 walk-in closets & a handsome office. Enjoy the views from the elevated Deck overlooking the Party Barn, Play House & Stable.
Set on 23+ acres in a sought-after locations, this remarkable property combines a picturesque country setting with a custom home designed for comfort, elegance, and recreation. Privately sited & surrounded by open space that abuts the 1,263-acre ChesLen Preserve, the residence offers 5 BR, 4.2 BA, & exceptional equestrian facilities. The home’s highlight is the indoor pool with sauna, entertainment area, bar & kitchen. Unionville-Chadds Ford Schools!
$2,750,000
Stunning Views from Home & Deck
Set on 6.3 acres overlooking acres of fields & abutting conserved properties, the 4 BR, 3.1 BA house is perfectly sited to capture one of the most spectacular views in Chester County. Featuring custom woodworking, wide width oak flooring, antique hardware, raised paneling, 5 fireplaces, custom kitchen & period details throughout, the home has unparalleled character. Enjoy the wonderful 4 stall barn, spacious deck & Unionville Schools!
$1,599,000
FFrom Veterans Day to Thanksgiving to Small Business Saturday and beyond, November is chock full of special events and opportunities.
Start the month off with some history. Brandywine Stories’ “Forgotten Patriot” tells the tale — through Noah Lewis’s reenactments and educational presentations — of Edward “Ned” Hector, a free Black man who served in the Continental Army. And in “From Coatesville to Florence,” John Dekhane writes about 2nd Lieutenant and World War II nurse Rebecca Louise George, in hopes of keeping her memory alive.
We celebrate other heroes in our annual Local Heroes feature as Shannon Montgomery shares the work of LCH Health & Community Services and their network of health centers in southern Chester County.
Then there’s “Southern Brandywine Valley — So Much to Celebrate!” where Carol Metzker explores history, heritage and highlights for a visit there. For music lovers, “A Season of Sound” surveys the best of the Brandywine Valley’s fall music scene that Shannon Montgomery discovered.
Planning early holiday gift shopping? Cara Corridoni advises “The Best Gifts Don’t Need Two-Day Shipping.” Our area’s countless charming shops and boutiques let you create themed gift baskets while supporting local businesses.
We also highlight vital topics for families. In our Worth Knowing column, Key Financial’s CEO Patti Brennan advises on long-term care planning, addressing insurance and other options. And Carol Metzker looks at the difficult choices involved in caring for loved ones with dementia in “Thanks for the Memories.” Marci Tomassone follows up with a “Guide to 55+ and Retirement Communities & Services.”
For Thanksgiving we share wine and cider pairings. Plus Brandywine Table’s Liz Tarditi explores cranberries with recipes from Peachtree Catering.
Finally, we added a nod to nature in “From Fiddleheads to Fronds” as Shoshi Hornum of Jenkins Aboretum & Gardens recounts the early history and continuing importance of these often-overlooked plants.
As always, we have the Best Local Events coverage.
Thank you for reading.
Jo Anne Durako Editor
PUBLISHER
Edwin Malet
EDITOR
Jo Anne Durako
ART DIRECTOR
Harvey Walls
ASSOCIATE EDITORS
Marci Tomassone
Shannon Montgomery
FOOD EDITOR
Liz Tarditi
ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES
Susan Gillespie
Caitlin Du Bois
Ivana Samsonova
Eddie Davis
BUSINESS MANAGER
Mary Jones
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Laurel Anderson / Cara Corridoni
Emily Hart / Elizabeth Hughes
Shelley Laurence / Carol Metzker
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Brenda Carpenter / Roman Coia
Wil Moore / Timlyn Vaughan
CONTACT US AT ValleyDel Publications, Inc. 515 S. Franklin St., Ste. 100 West Chester, PA 19382. 610-918-9300. Info@ValleyDel.com
To find County Lines, check our website’s “Get A Copy” page, pick one up at Main Point Books, Wellington Square Bookshop, Reads & Company and specialty food markets, or visit advertisers listed in the Index.
ValleyDel Publications, Inc. may subject the infringer to penalty and suit as provided by law. November
www.mbofwestchester.com
484-313-1100
Step into the future of luxury automotive experiences at Mercedes-Benz of West Chester. Our all-new, state-of-the-art showroom showcases the elegance, innovation, and precision engineering that define the Mercedes-Benz brand.
Experience our AMG Performance Center, where you can explore the full range of high-performance AMG vehicles, expertly engineered for those who demand nothing less than perfection. Whether you're looking to drive in style or unleash unparalleled power, we invite you to visit us and see what sets Mercedes-Benz of West Chester apart.
What is an AMG performance center?
At Mercedes-Benz of West Chester, our AMG Performance Center offers an exclusive space to experience the power and precision of AMG. With a range of high-performance models on display and personalized guidance from our AMG-trained experts, we deliver a bespoke experience for enthusiasts. Explore the thrill of AMG innovation right in the heart of your community. Visit us today to experience the future of driving.
The story of veteran Rebecca Louise George John Dekhane
STORIES
Forgotten Patriot: the story of Ned Hector as told by Noah Lewis
Kim Andrews
Keeping our community healthy for over 50 years
Shannon Montgomery
Fall into the Brandywine Valley’s rich music scene
Shannon Montgomery
So much to celebrate Carol Metzker
FIDDLEHEADS TO FRONDS
The story of ferns
Shoshi Hornum, Jenkins Arboretum & Gardens
BEST GIFTS DON’T NEED TWO-DAY SHIPPING
Local, sustainable, curated gift baskets
Cara Corridoni
When it’s time for senior memory care, help is there Carol Metzker
Get
Explore
[ ] Worth Knowing
Long-Term Care Insurance and the Bigger Picture
Patti Brennan, Key Financial, Inc.
WHEN MOST PEOPLE THINK about long-term care planning, their minds immediately jump to insurance policies. Should I buy one? How much coverage do I need? Can I afford the premiums?
After decades as a financial advisor, I’ve seen that long-term care planning requires more than insurance. It must address housing, family dynamics, finances and, most importantly, dignity.
HIDDEN COSTS INSURANCE DOESN’T COVER
Even with insurance coverage, families face out-of-pocket long-term care expenses like home modifications, lost caregiver income, transportation and coordination services. For example, I’ll never forget when my husband had a simple foot surgery. Nothing major, but suddenly we were scrambling. How would he get into the house without a ramp? Could our bathroom handle his limited mobility?
Those oversights revealed something important: long-term care planning isn’t just about bills — it’s about preparing your home, finances and family for when you need help.
A COMPREHENSIVE APPROACH
1. Housing Strategy. Your home may be your largest asset, but is it ready for your future needs? Evaluate whether it can be modified with ramps, grab bars and safe flooring. Consider proximity to hospitals, caregivers and family support. Proactive planning helps ensure comfort and continuity later.
2. Family Care Economics. One overlooked aspect is the toll long-term care needs may have on a family. When children leave jobs or reduce hours to provide care for parents, the ripple effect can last decades. A thoughtful plan should acknowledge those costs and create strategies to support caregiv-
ers — emotionally, financially, logistically — not just the individual receiving care.
3. Integrated Financial Readiness. Using liquidity ladders (related to converting assets into cash), tax strategies and asset protection can mean the difference between security and surprise bills. For instance, withdrawing $100,000 from a retirement account to pay for care might ultimately require pulling $130,000 once taxes are factored in. Strategic coordination with advisors can prevent painful, expensive mistakes.
4. Risk Transfer with Insurance. Insurance is about transferring risk, but it isn’t one-size-fits-all. Evaluating traditional versus hybrid products, considering your capacity to self-insure and ensuring premiums remain affordable even in retirement are crucial steps. The right policy can be a bridge between financial stability and emotional peace of mind.
PRESERVING DIGNITY
When my father required care, my siblings and I rotated shifts, supplementing with professional support. One night, I was helping him, and after struggling to stand, he looked at me and said, “I’m so sorry you have to deal with this — deal with me — at three o’clock in the morning, eight months pregnant, trying to get me to the darn commode.”
That moment showed me something profound: long-term care planning isn’t just about finances — it’s also about preserving dignity during life’s most vulnerable chapters.
A FAMILY SYSTEMS APPROACH
Planning extends beyond the individual. A true care plan includes communication frameworks like family meetings, decision-making hierarchies and documented care preferences to help avoid conflict when emotions are running high.
In addition, legal documents like powers of attorney, living wills, HIPAA authorizations and
estate plans ensure wishes are respected and decisions are made promptly, without uncertainty or delay.
THE COST OF INACTION
I’ve seen families drain their savings because they approached care reactively rather than proactively. Consider my mother’s situation: perfectly healthy at 66 when my father died, she lived another 17 years with limited resources because his care costs had consumed their nest egg.
If they had built a plan — one that integrated insurance, communication, strategy — their story could have ended differently.
MOVING FORWARD
Sooner or later, we’ll all need care in some form. The question is, will you have the resources, systems and emotional infrastructure in place when that day comes? Long-term care planning isn’t about predicting the future — it’s about preparing for it with clarity and compassion.
Key Financial, Inc. is a federally registered investment advisor with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission. Securities offered through Osaic Wealth, Inc. Osaic Wealth, Inc. is separately owned and other entities and/or marketing names, products or services referenced here are independent of Osaic Wealth, Inc. Patricia Brennan and Osaic Wealth, Inc. do not offer tax advice or tax services. Please consult your tax specialist for individual advice. We make no specific comments or recommendations on any tax-related details.
Whether you’re gathering with loved ones or making new memories, Prince George’s is your holiday destination. Come celebrate the season with us!
Indulge your taste buds at our diverse restaurants and try an array of cuisines from our talented chefs.
See live performances with some of the biggest names in entertainment at MGM National Harbor, and head to Tanger Outlets for the perfect gifts and fashions.
Feel the excitement of watching an NFL game with tickets to see the Commanders at Northwest Stadium on Christmas Day.
Don’t miss ICE! The Polar Express at the Gaylord National Harbor, a breathtaking winter wonderland made from hundreds of ice sculptures.
Hop on a water taxi
Enjoy the sights and lights of our National Harbor from the Potomac! Book Your Getaway for all the holiday cheer your heart desires! for all the holiday cheer your heart desires!
Prince George’s is your holiday destination. Come celebrate the season with us!
[Good to Know
Just a few things we’d thought you’d like to know this month
Tune in to History. Ken Burns is releasing a brand-new documentary, and Friends of America250 want to help you plan a watch party. “The American Revolution,” a six-part, 12-hour documentary, airs on PBS over six nights, November 16 to 21 at 8 p.m. Friends of America250 has free online materials to help plan your perfect watch party, including online and in-person party toolkits, discussion questions, episode descriptions and even a recipe for “liberty” popcorn seasoning. A250Friends.org/ AmericanRevolution
New and Improved. Say “hello” to a new local business and “welcome back” to another. In Swarthmore, Celia Bookshop recently opened its doors next to the library, boasting nearly 8,000 books, including titles from local authors. And Frazer Antiques is back with a new name and new space. The 3,300-square-foot Frazer Antique Market is filled with antiques, vintage books and clothes, dishes and china, art and décor, and much more. 102 Park Ave., Swarthmore; CeliaBookshop. com. 179 Lancaster Ave., Ste. 2, Malvern; FrazerAntiqueMarket.com
All Aboard. Help preserve a local landmark. The West Chester Railroad Heritage Association (WCRHA) has launched an $85,000 fundraising campaign to restore the historic Glen Mills train station. The station was opened in 1881 and served as both a passenger and freight station for the Pennsylvania Railroad. Today, the Frank Furness-inspired, Gothic Revival station is a stop on the WCRHA tourist railroad, where passengers can experience what rail travel was like in the late 1800s. GoFundMe.com/Charity/ West-Chester-Railroad-Heritage-Asso
Revolutionary Tribute. Celebrate Veterans Day by helping to honor those who fought for our freedom. The Mahanatawny Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution are seeking donations for a Revolutionary War memorial on Veterans Island in Pottstown’s Memorial Park. To unveil the monument on July 4, 2026, the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, they must raise $30,000 by November 30. Send contributions to Mahanatawny DAR, PO Box 1204, Pottstown. MahanatawnyDAR.org
Paint the Town. Downingtown is about to get more colorful. The Chester County Mural and Arts Project, a new grassroots initiative, is teaming up with Downingtown Parks & Recreation to create vibrant public arts projects that celebrate creativity and strengthen community pride. The first wave of projects includes four painted planters throughout Downingtown, each designed by local artists, and the Downingtown Love Mural at Johnsontown Park, created in collaboration with local nonprofit Ella’s Gifts. On Instagram @ChesterCountyMuralAndArts
best Local Events [ ]
Unite for HER’s Harvest Chef Tasting Event
November 6
Gather for a unique farmto-table event featuring creations from top chefs paired with offerings from wineries, breweries and spirit vendors. Enjoy auctions, a wine grab and live music. Benefits Unite for HER. Phoenixville Foundry, 2 N. Main St., Phoenixville. 6:30 p.m. $175–$250. UniteForHER.org/Harvest
13th
Annual Bark & Whine Gala
November 8
Join this fundraiser to celebrate the PSPCA rescue’s mission with cocktails, dinner, music and dancing, auctions and adoptable pets. URBN (Navy Yard), 5000 S. Broad St., Philadelphia. 6:30 to 10:30 p.m. Tickets $350 and up. PSPCA.org
Kennel Club of Philadelphia’s 24th National Dog Show
November 15 & 16
One of the area’s most propular family attractions, the National Dog Show features some 2,000 canines representing almost 200 different breeds in an American Kennel Club (AKC)-recognized competition for Best in Show. The show on Saturday will air Thanksgiving Day as a two-hour broadcast special. Greater Philadelphia Expo Center, 100 Station Ave., Oaks. Sat.–Sun., 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. $10–$20. NDS. NationalDogShow.com
Picks by Marci Tomassone
“A Christmas Carol” at People’s Light
November 19–January 4
Experience the magic of Dickens’ enduring classic in this music-filled adaptation. The beloved ghost story blends original songs and traditional English carols with the timeless tale of redemption and transformation.
“A Christmas Carol” is a must-see for the whole family, full of humor, heart and holiday magic. 39 Conestoga Rd., Malvern. Times and tickets, PeoplesLight.org
Santa at the Clubhouse
November 22
The Saturday Club invites families for photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus and a touch of holiday spirit. You can bring your pup … four-legged friends are welcome from 12:30 to 1 p.m. Benefits women’s and children’s charities throughout the area.
117 W. Wayne Ave., Wayne. 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Donation, $25.
SaturdayClub.org
Holiday Market at Winterthur
November 22
Experience the magic of handmade artistry and timeless holiday charm and discover a selection of artisan goods, handcrafted treasures and festive decor from over 50 talented local vendors. Savor seasonal treats, cozy up by the firepits, enjoy live holiday music and raise a complimentary seasonal sparkling toast. 5105 Kennett Pk., Winterthur. Morning session: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.; afternoon session: 2 to 6 p.m. $9–$30. Winterthur.org
NOVEMBER 2
Steamin’ Day at Marshall Steam Museum. Climb into an antique automobile or board one of the trains and experience what it was like to travel at the turn of the 20th century. Tour the 1897 mansion that was home to three generations of the Marshall family. 3000 Creek Rd., Hockessin, DE. 12:30 to 4:30. $10–$15. AuburnHeights.org
NOVEMBER 2, 9
West Chester Railroad Fall Foliage Express. Enjoy a brisk fall afternoon along the Chester Creek Valley on a 90-minute journey back in time to the village of Glen Mills, then return. Trains depart the station at 203 E. Market St., West Chester. 10 am, noon and 2 pm. $25–$30. WCRailroad.com
NOVEMBER 8
Culinary Workshop: Kids Cook Thanksgiving. Ages 8+ and their families will joy preparing old and new favorites for the Thanksgiving meal. After the meal is cooked, everyone sits down to the feast. Wayne Art Center, 413 Maplewood Ave., Wayne. 1:30 to 4. $75.Register at WayneArt.org
NOVEMBER 8
Pints on the Preserve Family Edition. Families are invited to meet for a few hours of fun and exploration. Bring a picnic to enjoy and hike the preserve’s 14 miles of trails. Pints for the grown-ups, too. Activities are free, but registration requested. ChesLen Preserve, 1199 Cannery Rd., Coatesville. 3 to 5. Free. NatLands.org
NOVEMBER 22
“Elmo and Friends Say Hello” at The Grand in Wilmington. Sing, dance and play alongside your favorite furry friends, then special ticket holders can have a Photo Experience with the group. Visit website for info. 818 N. Market St., Wilmington. Times and tickets, TheGrandWilmington.org
NOVEMBER 22
Kennett Square Holiday Light Parade. Gather your family and friends for the annual Holiday Light Parade and tree lighting. Come meet Santa and Mrs. Claus and welcome the holiday season and light up the town. 6 pm. KennettCollaborative.org
NOVEMBER 29 & DECEMBER 13
Celebrate the Holidays in Downingtown. Nov. 29, Tree Lighting Ceremony with refreshments, music and Santa. Log House Field next to the Gazebo in Kerr Park. 6 pm. Dec. 13, the hometown Christmas parade features local bands, dancers, scouts and the arrival of Santa Claus. Starts at Beaver Creek Elementary School and travels Rt. 30 to East Ward Elementary. 3 pm. DTownChristmas.com .
DECEMBER 3 & 10
Brandywine Museum of Art Family Holiday Events. Dec. 3, “The Polar Express” Read-Aloud Pajama Night—enjoy hot chocolate and cookies, 6:30 to 8 pm,
$25. Dec. 10, Children’s Christmas Party— visit with Santa and enjoy entertainment, characters, trains and more, 5:30 to 7:30 pm, $35. 1 Hoffman’s Mill Rd., Chadds Ford. Brandywine.org.
DECEMBER 5 & 6
Feel the Holiday Spirit in Phoenixville. First Friday Holiday Edition and tree lighting downtown, 6:30 pm, and family-friendly activities throughout that weekend. PhoenixvilleFirst.org.
DECEMBER 5 & 6
Christmas Celebrations in Wayne. Dec. 5, enjoy carriage rides, arts and crafts, carolers, tree lighting and Santa’s arrival, 5:30 to 8, tree lighting at 7:30 pm. Dec. 6, Radnor Memorial Library Elves for Shelves Fun Run and 5K at 8 am and pictures with Santa at 10 am. Details at WayneBusiness.com.
DECEMBER 6
Santa at Marshall Square Park. Come join West Chester Parks and Recreation to welcome in the holidays. Santa will be on hand in the gazebo for pictures with the entire family. Food trucks, holiday crafts and live music on hand for all to enjoy. Marshall Square Park, 200 E. Marshall St., West Chester. 4:30 to 6:30. West-Chester.com
DECEMBER 6
Breakfast with Santa. Head for the Chester County History Center to meet Santa and enjoy breakfast. 225 N. High St., West Chester. 9:30 to 11 am. $15. Pre-reg. required. West-Chester.com
DECEMBER 6
American Helicopter Museum Presents SantaFest 2025. Santa arrives at 11 am, ready to hear children’s wish lists. Bring your cameras to take pictures and enjoy hands-on activities. 1220 American Blvd., West Chester. 10 to 2. $15, members and children under 2 free. HelicopterMuseum.org
HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS ...........................
See also: Family Fun.
NOVEMBER 14–16
Delaware Hospice Festival of Trees. Beautifully decorated trees and wreaths plus events, a festival marketplace, bakeshop and raffles make the weekend special. Brantwyn Estate, 600 Rockland Rd., Wilmington. $25. Fri, noon to 4; Sat & Sun, 10 to 4. DelawareHospice.org.
NOVEMBER 15
The Saturday Club’s Annual Holiday Market. Featuring local and national vendors for holiday shopping with a selection of art, jewelry, clothing, accessories, home decor and gifts. Auctions of vendor gifts and services will be held as well. 117 W. Wayne Ave., Wayne. 10 to 2. SaturdayClub.org
NOVEMBER 20–23
Brandywine Museum of Art Annual Holiday Critter Sale. Delightful, distinctive ornaments and tabletop decorations handmade using natural materials, each with its own unique personality and expression—no two are alike. Chadds Ford Historical Society, 1736 Creek Rd., Chadds Ford. Preview Wed, 10 to 4; Thurs–Sat, 10 to 5; Sun, 10 to 3. Brandywine.org
NOVEMBER 21–JANUARY 11
A Longwood Christmas. This Christmas, the Gardens are transformed into a living jewel box as twinkling lights dance, hues of emerald green to ruby red to bold sapphire shimmer, and every path leads to a new treasure. 1001 Longwood Rd., Kennett Square. $20–$42. Timed tickets required. LongwoodGardens.org.
NOVEMBER 22–JANUARY 3
Yuletide at Winterthur. Yuletide charm meets
contemporary creativity in the historic mansion. Delight in beautifully decorated trees inside and out and marvel at a large-scale gingerbread house and 18-room dollhouse. Enjoy enchanting decorations and outdoor lighting inspired by the woodlands of Winterthur. 5105 Kennett Pk., Winterthur, DE. Tues–Sun, 10 to 5. $9–$30. Winterthur.org
NOVEMBER 24–JANUARY 4
Chester County Hospital Lights Up Holiday Weekends in West Chester. Festivities in the borough begin Nov. 24, with holiday lights
aglow; Nov. 24 & 25, The West Chester Borough Balladeer Carolers perform; Nov, 25, Making Spirits Bright Holiday Music Series and Santa on a fire truck; Nov. 24–26, Holiday Window Decorating Contest. Visit GreaterWestChester. com for details through the month.
NOVEMBER 28–JANUARY 1
Holidays at Hagley. Returning this year with Holiday Home and Garden Tours, the 8th annual Gingerbread House Contest and Dec. 6 is Santa Day. Dec. 9, 11, 16, 18, Holiday Nights Tours, 4 to 7. Hagley’s Library & Soda House,
Surrey Holiday House Tour & Shop. Visit Main Line homes decorated for the holidays, 9:30 to 4, $95, then stop by the Holiday Shop for the perfect holiday gift, 10 to 4. Benefits Surrey’s nonprofit outreach and services for older adults. St. David’s Episcopal Church Hall, 763 S. Valley Forge Rd., Wayne. SurreyServices.org/ Holiday-House-Tour-2025.
DECEMBER 5 & 6
A Dickens of a Christmas Weekend in Kent County, MD. Come dressed like a Dickens character and step into 1840s London to experience the holiday season as Charles Dickens imagined it. This two-day event includes carriage rides, entertainment, home tour, food, book talks, merchandise and more. Fri, 5 to 9 pm; Sat, 8 am to 6 pm. Chestertown, MD. MainStreetChestertown.org/Dickens-Festival
DECEMBER 5 & 6
Tree Lighting & Holiday Home Tour in Strasburg. Dec, 5, the tree lighting takes place in front of the Strasburg Borough Library, 145 Precision Ave., at 5:30 with free activities and food. At 6:30, Santa will arrive by fire truck to light the tree. Dec, 6, 7 festively decorated homes in historic Strasburg are open for viewing, First Presbyterian Church of Strasburg, 101 S. Decatur St. 10 to 4. $25. StrasburgHeritageSociety.org
DECEMBER 6
Historic Sugartown Holiday Craft Market. Get into the holiday spirit at the Holiday Market
featuring many local crafters and artisans, and Santa will be on-hand to greet shoppers. 260 Spring Rd., Malvern. Noon to 4. $10. HistoricSugartown.org
DECEMBER 6
West Chester Public Library Holiday Home Tour. The tour showcases six borough, residential homes and six attractions decked out for the holidays. The homes display the homeowners’ art, collectibles, antiques and holiday decor. Benefits the library. 10 to 3. $45 in advance, $55 day of tour. For tickets, visit WCPublicLibrary.org.
DECEMBER 6 & 7, 13 & 14
Kennett Square Holiday Village Market. Shop dozens of artisan and vintage vendors while enjoying live music, festive cocktails, food trucks, family activities and more. The Creamery, 401 Birch St., Kennett Square. 11 to 5. KennettCollaborative.org
DECEMBER 6
Annual Candlelight Holiday Tour & Marketplace in Phoenixville. The Phoenixville Area Senior Center is hosting the Marketplace (food, drinks, holiday vendors) from 3 to 7. Tour starts at the Center, 4 to 8, with transportation available. Benefits seniors in the community. $30
Artisan Exchange, 208 Carter Dr. West Chester. Sat, 10 to 1. ArtisanExchange.net.
Berwyn Farmers Market, 511 Old Lancaster Rd. Sun, 9 to 1. BerwynFarmersMarket.com
Downingtown Farmers Market, Kerr Park, Log House Field, 28 E. Pennsylvania Ave. Sat, 9 to 1. GrowingRootsPartners.com
Eagleview Farmers Mkt., Eagleview Town Ctr., 570 Wellington Sq., Exton. Thurs, 3 to 6. GrowingRootsPartners.com
Farmer Jawn Farm Store, 1225 E. Street Rd., West Chester. Tues & Wed, 10 to 6; Thurs–Fri, 10 to 7; Sat–Sun, 9 to 5. FarmerJawn.co
Kennett Square Farmers Mkt., 600 S. Broad St. Fri, 3 to 6. KSQFarmersMarket.com
Lancaster County Farmers Mkt., 389 W. Lancaster Ave., Wayne. Wed, Fri & Sat, 6 to 4. LancasterCountyFarmersMarket.com.
Malvern Farmers Market, Burke Park, 26 S. Warren Ave. Sat, 9 to 1. GrowingRootsPartners.com
Media Farmers Market, Edgemont St. between Front & State Sts. Sun, 10 to 1. FarmToCityMarkets.com
New Garden Growers Market, 8934 Gap Newport Pk., Landenberg. Sat, 9 to noon. On Facebook.
New Roots by Ramsey’s Farm, 4336 S. Creek Rd., Chadds Ford. Daily, 9 to 6. NewRootsByRamseys.com
Oxford Village Market, 193 Limestone Rd. Thurs, 8 to 6; Fri, 8 to 7; Sat, 8 to 5. OxfordFarmMarketPA.com
Phoenixville Farmers Market, 200 Mill St. Sat, 9 to noon. PhoenixvilleFarmersMarket.org
Thornbury Farmers Mkt. & CSA, 1256 Thornbury Rd., West Chester. Thurs–Fri, noon to 6; Sat, 9 to 6; Sun, 11 to 5. ThornburyFarmCSA.com
Thornton Farmers Mkt., 330 Glen Mills Rd. Sat, 10 to 1. On Facebook.
Upper Merion Farmers Mkt., Nor-View Farm, 670 N. Henderson Rd., King of Prussia. Sat, 10 to 2. UMTownship.org
West Chester Growers Mkt., Chestnut & Church Sts. Sat, 9 to 1. WestChesterGrowersMarket.com
Westtown Amish Ma rket, 1165 Wilmington Pk., West Chester. Thur, 9 to 6; Fri, 9 to 7; Sat, 8 to 4. WestChesterAmishMarket.com.
For more visit the Chester County Farm Guide online, ChesCoPlanning.org/Agriculture/FarmGuide.cfm
advance/$35 day of tour. 153 Church St. PHXHolidayTour.Weebly.com
ART,
CRAFTS & ANTQUES.....................
NOVEMBER 1 & 2
Tuscarora Lapidary Society Gemarama Show. Browse and shop for gems, jewelry, beads and rocks, enjoy the exhibits, a silent auction, demonstrations and a kids activity area. Greater Philadelphia Expo Center, 100 Oaks Ave., Oaks. Sat, 10 to 6; Sun, 10 to 5. $7; 12 and under, $1. Lapidary.org/Gemarama.
NOVEMBER 1 & 2
Chester County Craft Guild Fine Craft Fair. Come out and do some holiday shopping at The Chester County Art Association for this juried craft fair. Shop from local artists for one-of-a-
kind, high-quality gifts. 100 N. Bradford Ave., West Chester. Sat, 10 to 4; Sun, 11 to 4. ChesterCountyCraftGuild.org.
NOVEMBER 6–9
Winterthur’s Annual Delaware Antiques Show. A showcase of art, antiques and design, featuring the finest offerings from more than 60 distinguished dealers. Thurs, the Opening Night Party includes cocktails, hors d’oeuvres and exclusive early shopping, 5 to 9, $125–$250. Chase Center on the Riverfront, 815 Justison St., Wilmington. Show hours, Fri–Sat, 11 to 6; Sun, 11 to 5. $25. Winterthur.org.
NOVEMBER 7–9
Historic Yellow Springs Fine Arts & Crafts Show. Original paintings and works in ceramics, glass, wood, paper, fiber arts, jewelry, photography and more. Opening reception on Fri, 5 to 8 pm, tickets $10. 1685 Art School Rd., Chester Springs. Fri, 5 to 8; Sat, 10 to 5; Sun, 10 to 4, $5. YellowSprings.org.
NOVEMBER 8 & 9
Haverford Guild of Craftsmen Holiday Art & Fine Craft Show. Shop from over 60 juried artists for high-quality handcrafted works of basketry, ceramics, fiber, glass, jewelry, leather, mixed media, painting, photography, sculpture, wood and more. Haverford Community Recreation
and Environmental Center, 9000 Parkview Dr., Haverford. 10 to 5. $5. HaverfordGuild.org
NOVEMBER 8–FEBRUARY 1
Bryn Mawr Rehab’s 30th Annual Exhibition and Sale. Nov. 8, opening evening features a cocktail reception and dinner under a tent. The show continues as a showcase and marketplace for talented artists, educating the community about the remarkable abilities of people with disabilities. Open daily during visiting hours. Bryn Mawr Rehab Hospital, 414 Paoli Pk., Malvern. MainLineHealth.org
NOVEMBER 21
Craft and Mercantile. A curated evening market celebrating local makers and artisans alongside live music, food, drink, and arts and crafts activities. Eagleview Town Center, 570
There’s no better place to be than surrounded by the warmth of friendship at Kendal~Crosslands Communities. We offer a thriving community where fellowship with friends is at the heart of every day. You can have it all—relax in the comfort of your home, or step outside to connect with friends and neighbors in our vibrant community. Whether you prefer peaceful solitude or active socializing, the choice is always yours. But the most important step is making a plan for your future self. Secure the life you deserve by creating a path for your future retirement living needs. Call us to join an event to learn more. It’s never too early to plan.
Wellington Sq., Exton. 4:30 to 8 pm. Free. GrowingRootsPartners.com
Wellington Square Bookshop. Reopened October 18. Classics Book Club: Nov. 5, “Dracula” by Bram Stoker, 2 pm. NonFiction Book Group: Nov. 6, “Papyrus: The Invention of Books in the Ancient World” by Irene Vallejo, 7 pm. Fiction Book Group: Nov. 19 & 20, “A Love Song for Ricki Wilde” by Tia Williams, Wed, 2 pm; Thurs, 2 & 7 pm. 549 Wellington Sq., Exton. WellingtonSquareBooks.com
NOVEMBER 5–26
Reads & Company. Book clubs and special events are held throughout the month. Check website for a complete list. Here are a few: The Big Reads Book Group: Nov. 5, “One of Us” by Dan Chaon. International Voices Book Group: Nov. 12, “Hope and Other Dangerous Pursuits” by Laila Lalami. The What’s the Tea? Book Club: Nov. 26, “Monk and Robot” by Becky Chambers. 234 Bridge St., Phoenixville. 7 pm. ReadsAndCompany.com
NOVEMBER 6, 18
Main Point Books. Nov. 6, join Jamie Brenner and special guests Beyond the Bookends for a cozy evening with Jamie’s new book, “The Weekend Crashers.” Wear your favorite sweater, bring a knitting project and settle in with hot cocoa. Fiction Book Group: Nov. 18, “Lady Tan’s Circle of Women” by Leslie See, 1 pm. 116 N. Wayne Ave., Wayne. MainPointBooks.com.
First State Ballet Theatre Presents “Up Front on Market.” A mixed program of highlights from classical repertoire and contemporary work in an intimate setting. Studio 1 at The Grand Opera House, 818 N. Market St., Wilmington. Sat, 7 pm; Sun, 2 pm. For tickets, visit TheGrandWilmington.org
EQUESTRIAN EVENTS
NOVEMBER 2
90th Running of the Pennsylvania Hunt Cup. Timber steeplechase race with a distance of four miles and 18 fences over fair hunting country. Enjoy vendors, a carriage parade, the PA Junior Hunt Cup, Mr. Stewart’s Cheshire Foxhounds and tailgating under tents. Benefits Chester County Food Bank. North of Rt. 926 & Newark Rd., Unionville. Gates open, 10 am, Hunt Cup at 3. For tickets, PAHuntCup.org.
Take a Turkey Trot
A great way to prepare for, or burn off, the holiday meal. There are many options to choose from, so grab the kiddos, friends and neighbors and have fun!
NOVEMBER 27
Chester County Turkey Trot. Enter the 5k race in 2 waves, 2K walk or a kids fun run. 445 Manor Ave., Downingtown. 7:40 am. $32. RunSignUp.com/Race/PA/ Downingtown/ChesterCountyTurkeyTrot
Turkey Trot in West Chester. Grab your family and friends for this 5K run/2Kwalk—the perfect way to celebrate the holiday. 50 W. Market St. 8 to 10 am. $32. DowntownWestChester.com
Wayne Turkey Trot. This 5K run/walk benefits the Children’s Hospital of Phila., the Radnor Township Police K-9 Unit and Phila. Financial Scholars. Great American Pub, W. Ave, Wayne. $20–$30. 8 am. RunTheDay. com/Register/Detail/Wayne-TurkeyTrot-2025
Unionville High School 5K and 1 Mile Turkey Trot and Food Drive. This race is for all ages and all skill levels. Unionville High School, 740 Unionville Rd.,Kennett Square. 10:15 am. $25–$35. RunSignUp.com/Race/ PA/KennettSquare/Unionville5KTurkeyTrot
Garnet Valley Turkey Trot 5K & 1 Mile.
A special Turkey Day prize will be awarded to the best dressed group, adult turkey & kid turkey. Garnet Valley High School, 552 Smithbridge Rd., Glen Mills. 9 am. $20–$30. RunSignUp.com/Race/PA/GlenMills/ GarnetValleyTurkeyTrot
Pottstown’s Toss Your Turkey 5K. “Toss” a frozen turkey (7 am to 8:20) then run the 5K at 8:30. Win a prize for farthest toss. Montgomery Co. Comm. College, 101 College Dr., Pottstown. $30. RunSignUp. com/Race/PA
Delco Turkey Trot. Come out for the 5K Road Race and a 1 Mile Little Drumstick Run. Benefits and held at Nether Providence Elementary School, 410 Moore Rd., Wallingford. 8:30 am. $15–$35. RunSignUp. com/Race/PA/Wallingford/DelcoTurkeyTrot
NOVEMBER 28
Burn Off the Bird 5K. A 5K Race & 1-mile Fun Run held annually. Franklin Commons, 400 Franklin Ave. 8:30 to 11 am. Phoenixville.org
Tavern Night—Historic Dinner at Newlin Grist Mill. Enjoy an evening of 18th-century food, drink and music featurning a selection of foods and beverages based on period recipes. Punches, beers and other beverages will be served along with fresh (non-alcoholic) cider. 219 S. Cheyney Rd., Glen Mills. Two seatings: 4:30 and 7:30. $75. NewlinGristMill.org.
NOVEMBER 2
Good Food Fest. A celebration of local food and agriculture, bringing farmers, food makers and the community together. Enjoy music, food trucks, a pouring room, demonstrations, kids activities, farm animals and more. Kimberton Fair Grounds, 762 Pike Springs Rd., Phoenixville. 11 to 4. $10; early bird entry, $25 at 10 am. GoodFarmsGoodFood.com
Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania 20th Annual 1940s Swing Dance. Jump, jive & swing to the big band playing live among the historic trains. Dress to impress in your best 1940s vintage attire or military uniform and enjoy light refreshments. Benefits the museum. 300 Gap Rd., Strasburg. 7 to 10. $20–$25. RRMuseumPA.org
NOVEMBER 6
22nd Annual Wine, Wit & Wisdom for Phoenixville Public Library. Guests will enjoy an unforgettable night featuring a silent auction, fine wine and cuisine and special guest speaker Lisa Scottoline. RiverCrest Golf Club & Preserve, 100 Rivercrest Dr., Phoenixville. 6 to 9 pm. $100–$140. PhoenixvilleLibrary.org.
NOVEMBER 8
Living Beyond Breast Cancer’s Annual Black-tie Gala—Butterfly Ball. One of LBBC’s most important events featuring cocktails, live and silent auction, dinner, dancing and more. The Bellevue Hotel, 200 S. Broad St., Philadelphia. Doors open at 5:30. $425. LBBC.org.
NOVEMBER 14
West Chester Area Senior Center’s Casino Night. Casino games, dinner, drinks and auctions. Proceeds support the services seniors rely on to remain as healthy, active and independent as possible. Ron Jaworski’s Downingtown Country Club, 93 Country Club Drive, Downingtown. 6:30. $125. WCSeniors.org
DECEMBER 5
49th Annual Gala at The Grand. Enjoy a performance by Bruce Hornsby with the Brandywine Valley Symphony. Then make your way to The Hotel du Pont for the Ultimate After Party featuring live music, delicious food, signature cocktails and more. 818 N. King St., Wilmington. 8 pm. Tickets $250 and up. TheGrandWilmington.org
DECEMBER 6
37th Annual West Chester Charity Ball— Holiday in the Tropics. Friends Association celebrates with a tropical twist in an evening of fun and elegance with island-inspired food and drinks, live music and dancing plus a silent auction. West Chester Golf & Country Club, 111 W. Ashbridge St., West Chester. 6:30. Tickets start at $200. FriendsAssoc.org/Charity-Ball
MUSEUMS
THROUGH JANUARY 25
Delaware Art Museum. “Warm Room: Photographs from Historic Greenhouses by Peter A. Moriarty,” historic greenhouses worldwide, capturing their light-filled architecture in gelatin-silver prints. 2301 Kentmere Pkwy., Wilmington. Wed–Sun, 10 to 4. $14–$25. DelArt.org
THROUGH MAY 31
Brandywine Museum of Art. Through Mar. 1, “Jerrell Gibbs: No Solace in the Shade.” Through May 31, worldwide museum debut of a rediscovered masterpiece by Jasper Fran-
Support Local Arts & Local Artists
2025 Holiday Art & Fine Craft Show
Don’t miss out on this perfect opportunity this holiday season to purchase one-of-a-kind gifts from over 60 juried artists for your loved ones (and yourself)! 10AM to 5PM f November 8th & 9th
$5 admission ($3 admission with this ad)
Haverford Community Recreation and Environmental Center (CREC) 9000 Parkview Dr., Haverford, PA 19041
cis Crospey not seen in the U.S. since it was painted over 150 years ago. 1 Hoffman’s Mill Rd., Chadds Ford. Wed–Mon, 9:30 to 4:30. $8–$20. Brandywine.org.
MUSIC & ENTERTAINMENT ..................
NOVEMBER 1–29
The Keswick Theatre. Nov. 1, Slaughter with special guests The Iron Maidens; Nov. 5, The Life and Music of George Michael; Nov. 6, The Glenn Miller Orchestra; Nov. 7, The Last Waltz Celebration; Nov, 8, Colin Hay; Nov. 11, John 5 & Richie Kotzen; Nov. 14, Josh Ritter & the Royal City Band; Nov. 15, Paul Reiser; Nov. 16, Macy Gray; Nov. 28 & 29, The Machine performs Pink Floyd. Visit website for more. 291 N. Keswick Ave., Glenside. Times and tickets, KeswickTheatre.com
NOVEMBER 1–30
At The Grand in Wilmington. Nov. 1, Il Divo By Candlelight; Nov. 2, Get The Led Out; Nov. 7, Leslie Jones Live; Nov. 7, An Evening with Garrison Keillor with Special Guest Rich Dworsky (Copeland Hall); Nov. 14, Randy Rainbow: National Freakin’ Treasure; Nov. 21, Jake Shimabukuro; Nov. 22, Martin Sexton: Abbey Road Show; Nov. 28, Rain: A Beatles Christmas Tribute; Nov. 29, “Sister’s Christmas Catechism;” Nov. 30, Kategory 5 and Friends: Holidaze Rock. Market St., Wilmington. Times and tickets, TheGrandWilmington.org.
NOVEMBER 2
Chester County Concert Band Presents: Fantasy in Flight. All ages will enjoy an entertaining concert celebrating all things that fly, featuring marches, movie music, pop tunes and more. Fugett Middle School, 500 Ellis Ln., West Chester. 2:30 pm. $10–$15; under 12, free. CCCBand.org
NOVEMBER 7–DECEMBER 30
American Music Theatre Presents The 2025 Christmas Show: Deck the Halls. Celebrate the season with awe-inspiring performances designed to capture the hearts of the entire family. 2425 Lincoln Hwy. E., Lancaster. Times and tickets, AMTShows.com
NOVEMBER 13–DECEMBER 5
Uptown! Knauer Performing Arts Center. Nov. 13 Laugh Lounge; Nov. 14, Mutlu Live in Concert; Nov. 15, The Moanin’ Frogs Saxophone Sextet; Nov. 19, Dueling Pianos; Nov. 22, Bacon Gives Back; Dec. 5, Holiday Cheer Concert. 226 N. High St., West Chester. Times and tickets, UptownWestChester.org.
NOVEMBER 23
Brandywine Valley Symphony Salon Concert. Enjoy an afternoon of Tchaikovsky’s
Haverford Guild of Craftsmen We are a proud chapter of the Scott Foster
Jo-Anne Frazier
Vicki Israel
“Serenade for Strings” in a relaxed setting with light appetizers and drinks. Mendenhall Inn Grand Ballroom, 323 Kennett Pk., Mendenhall. 3 pm. $75. BVSymphony.org
DECEMBER 6
Holiday Concert with BVS Brass Quintet. Surrounded by over 300 years of history at the Chester County History Center, you’ll enjoy arrangements by Brandywine Valley Symphony’s brass quintet, celebrating the holidays with the joyful sounds of carols and festive classics. 225 N. High St., West Chester. 6:30 pm. $10–$30. BVSymphony.org.
OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES............................
NOVEMBER 28–FEBRUARY 16
Flight on Ice. This pop-up outdoor ice skating rink brings a season of family fun, including ice skating sessions, fire pit lounge areas, local entertainers and DJs, and food and beverages. Proceeds benefit the Delaware County Veterans Memorial Association. Energy Transfer Veterans Memorial Rink, 4901 West Chester Pk., Newtown Square. FlightOnIce.com
THEATER
NOVEMBER 15–DECEMBER 21
“Christmas by Candlelight” at The Candlelight Theatre. Featuring seasonal favorites,
sacred tunes and some surprises, brought to life by the Candlelighters. 2208 Millers Rd., Wilmington. Times and tickets, 302-475-2313; CandlelightTheatreDelaware.org
NOVEMBER 28–JANUARY 4
“Elf—the Musical” at Fulton Theatre. This modern-day holiday classic is sure to make everyone embrace their inner elf. 12 N. Prince St., Lancaster. Times and tickets, 717-397-7425; TheFulton.org
NOVEMBER 28–JANUARY 4
“Annie” at Media Theatre. Bring the whole family to see the classic story of the little orphan who could. 104 E. State St., Media. Times and tickets, MediaTheatre.org.
DECEMBER 3–21
“Shrek the Musical” at Delaware Theatre. The perfect play for the whole family. 200 Water St., Wilmington. Times and tickets, DelawareTheatre.org
DECEMBER 6–28
Uptown! Knauer Performing Arts Center Presents “Cinderella.” Experience the magic—Rodgers + Hammerstein’s “Cinderella” brings a timeless tale to life with a modern twist. 226 N. High St., West Chester. Times and tickets, UptownWestChester.org.
TOWNS, TALKS & TOURS ......................
THROUGH NOVEMBER 12
Chilling West Chester: A Dark History Walking Tour. True tales of murder, mischief and misadventure, pulled from the archives of the Chester County History Center on a 90-minute walking tour. 225 N. High St., West Chester. 6 to 7:30 pm. $18. MyCCHC.org.
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From Coatesville to Florence
THE STORY OF VETERAN REBECCA LOUISE GEORGE
John Dekhane
DURING WORLD WAR II, countless women answered the call to serve, stepping into roles that reshaped history and helped turn the tide during humanity’s darkest hour. These women served as mechanics, nurses, radio operators, pilots, codebreakers, factory workers and spies. Across countries and continents, they faced unimaginable challenges, yet they fulfilled their duties with unshakable resolve.
They asked for no recognition or reward, but history will forever remember them as heroes.
A NURSE FROM COATESVILLE
Among the courageous women who went off to war — but never came home — was Second Lieutenant Rebecca Louise George, a remarkable nurse from Coatesville, Pennsylvania.
Born December 9, 1909, Rebecca was the daughter of Frederick “Fred” George, a steel mill foreman, and Ada Blanche George, a homemaker. Her early life was marked by tragedy. On May 5, 1911, when Rebecca was just a toddler, her mother passed away from pulmonary disease. A few years later, tragedy struck again. On July 12, 1928, her father was fishing alongside a river when he decided to take a swim. He suddenly disappeared beneath the water. Nearby swimmers tried to rescue him, but their efforts were in vain, and Fred drowned at the age of 42.
Despite these heartbreaking hardships, Rebecca persevered. With the love and support of her brothers, she graduated from Coatesville High School and went on to receive her nursing training at Lancaster General Hospital. Her dedication to care and leadership led her to become night supervisor at West Chester Hospital, which later became
Memorial Hospital of Chester County. At that time, her life was one of quiet strength, purpose and service to others.
A CALL TO SERVE
In 1942, as the world was at war and freedom was in peril, Rebecca felt a duty to serve and enlisted in the U.S. Army Nurse Corps. Assigned to the 24th Station Hospital, she was deployed overseas, serving for more than two years in U.S. Army hospitals across India and the Middle East. Her work was physically exhausting and emotionally draining. Day after day, she cared for the sick and wounded with unwavering dedication, doing everything possible to save lives. Despite the harsh conditions, she carried out her duties with remarkable strength, never complaining.
On December 29, 1944, after her long and faithful service, Rebecca was finally on her way home on furlough. She couldn’t
wait to return to Coatesville. But sadly, she never made it. On that fateful day, while she was aboard an aircraft, something went horribly wrong. The plane crashed in Central Africa, killing her instantly. Second Lieutenant Rebecca L. George was only 35 years old.
The news of her death reached her beloved hometown of Coatesville by telegram, delivered to her brother’s residence at 631 Olive Street. Everyone who knew and loved this kind, compassionate nurse mourned her loss deeply.
SACRED GROUND
Today, Rebecca rests at the Florence American Cemetery in Italy, among 4,393 American heroes who sacrificed their lives, their dreams and their futures for our freedom. Nestled in the peaceful Tuscan landscape, this beautiful cemetery stands as sacred ground. Each white marble cross and Star of David marks a life — a story, a voice — forever remembered.
Rebecca wasn’t the only member of the George family to demonstrate courage, service and valor. Her half-brother, Second Lieutenant Harry D. George, was a B-25 pilot of the 487th Bomb Squadron, 340th Bomb Group. In June 1944, this native of Coatesville was flying over Northern Italy when his bomber was struck by enemy fire and forced to land behind enemy lines. Driven by extraordinary resilience and determination, Harry survived and managed to make his way back to American lines after a grueling 78-day journey through enemy territory.
1. Second Lieutenant Rebecca Louise George PHOTO COURTESY OF DWIGHT “ANDY” ANDERSON
2. Second Lieutenant Harry D. George PHOTO CREDIT: AMERICAN AIR MUSEUM
Forgotten Patriot
THE STORY OF NED HECTOR AS TOLD BY NOAH LEWIS
Kim Andrews
WHEN NOAH LEWIS FIRST put on the coat and hat of Edward “Ned” Hector for his daughter’s fourth-grade class, he never imagined it would shape the next chapter of his life. The former electronic repair technician found himself transformed by the story, the reaction of students and a growing need to set the historical record straight.
A FREE BLACK HERO
Almost three decades later, Lewis has become one of the nation’s most compelling historical educator-reenactors, using his portrayal of Ned Hector to illuminate a forgotten legacy of Black patriotism and bravery during the American Revolution. Edward “Ned” Hector was a free Black man who served as a bombardier and teamster in the Continental Army. He fought in the Battle of Brandywine in September 1777 as part of Proctor’s 3rd Pennsylva-
nia Artillery. When American forces were forced to retreat under heavy British attack, many soldiers abandoned their equipment to save themselves. Hector famously refused. “I will save my horses or perish myself!” he reportedly shouted, successfully driving a wagon loaded with guns, supplies and his team of horses to safety.
Lewis first encountered Hector’s name while researching African American history and was stunned to find not only a man of color in a Revolutionary War battle, but one admired and remembered by his peers long after his death. “I had grown up with the impression that Black people were slaves during the Revolution,” Lewis said. “Learning about Ned Hector shook that belief. He was a hero and he was free.”
POSTWAR LIFE
Hector’s military service was followed by decades of respected civilian life in what’s now the town of Conshohocken in Mont-
gomery County. Census records list him as a “free man of color,” a property owner who paid taxes and was known in his community.
He lived to be about 90 years old, dying in January 1834. Hector was buried in the cemetery of Mt. Zion AME Church in Norristown. Though his grave was later lost to development, his memory endured, honored with a state historical marker, plaques and a street named in his honor.
A REENACTOR’S LESSONS
“I’m not just wearing the costume,” Lewis explained. “I’m teaching people. I’m helping them unlearn what they thought they knew about our history.”
As an educator-reenactor, Lewis distinguishes himself from actors who stay entirely in character. His programs mix vivid storytelling, historical context and hands-on experiences, such as a participating in artillery drills that get audiences
marching, loading and “firing” as Revolutionary War soldiers. “Adults and kids both light up when they get to do something,” Lewis said. “That’s how history sticks.”
He emphasizes that African Americans have always been central to the nation’s story, from gathering intelligence to moving supplies to acts of battlefield heroism. “The freedoms we enjoy today were built on the backs of people like Ned Hector,” Lewis said.
Recent moves by institutions like the National Park Service to scale back live reenactments, especially “force-on-force” battle demonstrations, concern Lewis. “These events are how people connect to history,” he argued. “If you take that away, you’re taking away context and emotional engagement.”
UNTOLD REVOLUTIONARY STORIES
The Battle of Brandywine, fought across southern Chester County, was a costly historic moment. Hector’s defiance came during a chaotic retreat that saw the Americans lose the field but preserve much of their fighting strength. “Hector chose to risk his life rather than surrender what he was entrusted to protect,” Lewis said.
Lewis hopes to one day create a documentary film on the untold stories of Black soldiers in the colonial era, much as the
1. Celebrating the 4th of July with music, a reading of the Declaration of Independence and a surprise finale — confetti canons. National Archives in Washington, D.C.
2. Revolutionary War soldier Ned Hector boos actions of the King of England during the reading of the Declaration of Independence. National Archives in Washington, D.C.
3. Reenactors Randell Spackman and Noah Lewis with fans
Why They Do It? The Call of Reenactment
For reenactors like Brad Upp and Randell Spackman, stepping into the past is more than a weekend hobby — it’s a calling to keep history alive. Upp traces his passion to reading his great-great-great-grandfather’s Civil War diary, later finding community in regiments that mix battle drills with music, preservation work and even placing headstones for forgotten soldiers. “It’s so much deeper than people imagine,” he said. “We’re honoring lives and telling stories.”
movie “Glory” shared stories of Black Civil War troops. “We need that kind of awakening for the Revolutionary War,” he said. Lewis hopes that America’s 250th anniversary in 2026 will inspire renewed interest in these histories.
Telling Hector’s story means presenting a full view of American history, not just the victories and ideals, but also the contradictions that came with them. Lewis sees the Revolution as a vital fight for liberty that left unfinished business and makes space in his programs for honest conversations about history and legacy.
Spackman, who helps run the nation’s largest Revolutionary War reenactment at Chester County’s Brandywine Battlefield, thrives on making history tangible. “It’s not a bunch of boring old stories; it’s who we are,” he explained. Whether braving 95-degree days in handmade uniforms or fielding questions from curious kids, the reward is seeing history click for someone new.
Both men say that joining in is more straightforward than people think. Many reenactment units have gear to loan so newcomers can try an event before investing. And local reenactments are a good first step. “Just walk up and talk to someone. There’s always a way to pitch in,” said Spackman.
From the crack of muskets to latenight conversations by the fire, reenactors keep history in motion, inviting others to step in, ask questions and become part of the story themselves.
Kim Andrews is an A250 Friends Outreach Officer of the Chester County Community Foundation and nonprofit consultant. She wrote this article to raise awareness of Chester County’s role in our nation’s fight for freedom and build engagement for 2026, the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. To get involved, contact America 250 Friends at the Chester County Community Foundation, A250Friends.org
Field nurse tends a wounded soldier, 2022 Battle of Brandywine reenactment
Local Heroes: LCH Health & Community Services
KEEPING OUR COMMUNITY HEALTHY FOR OVER 50 YEARS
Shannon Montgomery
WHEN ILSA BECAME
pregnant with her first child, her mother knew exactly where she should go for prenatal care. A patient at LCH Health and Community Services herself, she recommended the LCH Women’s Health Center in West Grove.
Soon after her son was born, Ilsa started to experience health difficulties. Dissatisfied with her healthcare provider, she switched to LCH for primary care as well. Her care team helped her manage her arthritis, then treated her for postpartum depression and anxiety.
Today, Ilsa is the mother of two happy, healthy boys who both receive pediatric care at LCH. From prenatal care to pediatrics and beyond, three generations of this family receive quality, affordable healthcare — all under one roof.
Ilsa and her family are among nearly 8,000 patients who receive care from LCH each year. For over 50 years, LCH has been helping southern Chester County families thrive, delivering accessible, personalized care to anyone who needs it.
HEALTH AND WELLNESS FOR ALL
LCH was founded in 1973 (originally named La Comunidad Hispana) when a
group of Kennett Square residents, clergy and supporters saw a need for a bilingual social services agency to provide for the needs of the local Latino population, drawn to the area by the mushroom industry. LCH was a place where immigrant families could go for help, ask questions and seek resources. In 1985, LCH began offering primary care services, laying the foundation for the nonprofit’s future.
As the needs of the community grew, so did the organization. In 2012, LCH became a Federally Qualified Health Center, allowing them to serve vulnerable individuals who are insured, under-insured or uninsured. All patients are evaluated to determine eligibility for discounted services, with a sliding-scale model based on income and family size. Everyone is welcome, regardless of ability to pay. To better reflect their mission, the organization changed its name to LCH Health and Community Services in 2021.
Today, LCH provides person-centered, integrated care — in English and Spanish — at their health centers in Kennett Square, Oxford and West Grove. Services includes primary care, dental care, pediatrics and women’s health services. LCH puts a special emphasis on preventative care, including immunization and early screenings for can-
cer and other illnesses. “We’re very focused on outcomes, and part of having great outcomes is working on preventative health,” said CEO Ronan W. Gannon. “I tell our team, ‘We don’t want to be the repair shop; we want to help people live healthy lives by preventing chronic diseases.’”
To help patients lead happy, healthy lives, LCH also offers integrated behavioral health services — brief screenings and follow-ups during medical visits or scheduled separately — at all their locations and via telehealth. In 2023, LCH opened the Pia Center for Behavioral Health at their West Grove campus, where patients 14 and older can receive outpatient and group therapy, as well as psychiatric medication management. “We feel that there’s an artificial divide between mental health and physical health,” said Gannon. “Really, they’re tied together.”
In 2024, 41% of LCH patients lived in poverty, and roughly half of patients are uninsured or self-pay for care. To help these people access care, LCH offers social services in person and over the phone. A team of application counselors, resource specialists, case managers and lawyers work with families in need of health insurance, information and referrals, public benefits and legal consultation.
NEW INITIATIVES
Staying true to its mission of care, LCH is expanding its reach with new programs that support a healthier, happier community.
Started out of necessity during the pandemic, LCH’s telehealth program has flourished since then. Patients can schedule a video call with their healthcare team for much of the same care they’d receive at an in-person appointment, such as primary care and behavioral health visits, lab and medication follow-ups, women’s health and pediatric concerns, even dental issues like mouth pain, swelling and broken teeth.
Last fall, LCH began offering chiropractic services to address concerns like back and neck pain, headaches and joint mobility. And earlier this year, LCH opened a pharmacy at their Kennett Square health center, providing patients with affordable, accessible medications and improving medication adherence for individuals with chronic conditions like diabetes and hypertension. Just last month, LCH started delivering prescriptions within a 10-mile radius of Kennett Square.
In addition, LCH is expanding its impact in the community through partnerships and outreach events. “We’re really excited about our great partnerships with schools, Chester County Hospital and the new ChristianaCare Hospital in West Grove,” said Gannon. Recent collaborations include nutrition classes hosted by Penn State experts and providing sports physicals for the Avondale School District.
GET INVOLVED
To realize their vision of a community where everyone has access to healthcare, LCH needs your help. Fortunately, there are several ways to get involved.
First, consider donating to LCH. While LCH receives federal support, over half its annual budget is raised through philanthropy. A contribution of $140 pays for a community health screening for a patient who couldn’t otherwise afford care. LCH also accepts in-kind donations, including gift cards to local stores, fitness equipment (soccer balls, basketballs, hand weights,
yoga mats), children’s coats and children’s books in English and Spanish. (Note that for sanitation reasons, LCH can only accept new items.)
Additionally, LCH offers volunteer opportunities in their health centers and in the community. Volunteers help at community events, office administrative tasks and special projects. Consider becoming an outreach ambassador to raise awareness for LCH’s services at local events, including Oxford First Fridays, Kennett Square’s Mushroom Festival and winter coat drives. Nurses are invited to provide brief health screenings during events.
Most importantly, spread the word about LCH to family and friends. “Refer us to people,” Gannon asked. “Let them know that we’re accepting new patients!”
For over half a century, LCH Health and Community Services has made southern Chester County a happier, healthier place to live. “We started as a small, local effort to bring care to people who didn’t have access,” said Gannon. “Today, we’re proud to serve the whole community. It doesn’t matter who you are or what insurance you have — we’re here for everyone.”
LCH Health and Community Services can’t do this work alone. To learn more, including volunteer and donation information, visit LCHCommunityHealth.org
Be a Local Hero!
In addition to LCH, many local organizations need your support. Here are just a few of the nonprofits providing medical care and support in our community. Find more on our website, CountyLinesMagazine.com
Community Volunteers in Medicine: West Chester, Coatesville and West Grove. CVIM.org
DE Breast Cancer Coalition: 100 W. 10th St., Ste. 209, Wilmington. DEBreastCancer.org
Maternal & Child Health Consortium of Chester County: 1475 Phoenixville Pk., Ste. 12, West Chester. CCMCHC.org
Planned Parenthood Southeastern PA: West Chester, Coatesville, Media and more. PlannedParenthood.org
Unite for HER: 22 E. King St., Malvern. UniteForHER.org
A Season of Sound
FALL INTO THE BRANDYWINE
VALLEY’S RICH MUSIC SCENE
Shannon Montgomery
FROM HISTORIC CHURCHES
to grand concert halls, music takes center stage across County Lines country. As autumn’s rhythm gives way to the holiday season, our area’s musicians are tuning up for a season of memorable concerts.
Here’s a look at the ensembles that keep the Brandywine Valley in perfect harmony. Check websites for tickets, locations and more performances.
SYMPHONY ORCHESTRAS
Orchestras across the Brandywine Valley are striking a chord this season with performances that celebrate both tradition and creativity. Whether presenting beloved classics or introducing audiences to fresh new works, these ensembles showcase the remarkable depth of musical talent in our region. Read on to find out what’s in store.
• Brandywine Valley Symphony
Chester County’s only professional orchestra is back for a new season — and with a new name. Formerly the Kennett Symphony, the Brandywine Valley Symphony began in 1940 as a small, volunteer community orchestra and has evolved into a premier ensemble. Today, the symphony delivers thrilling performances, fosters meaningful connections with audiences, and creates unforgettable musical experiences locally, regionally and soon nationally, as they gear up for their Carnegie Hall debut next fall.
On November 23, join the symphony at the Mendenhall Inn for a concert in the Grand Ballroom. Enjoy an afternoon of Tchaikovsky’s poignant “Serenade for Strings” in a relaxed setting with light appetizers and drinks. Artistic Director Michael Hall will be your guide, offering stories, visuals and musical examples
to make the music come alive. Next up, a holiday concert with the BVS Brass Quintet, December 6 at the Chester County History Center. BVSymphony.org
• Delaware County Symphony
Since 1971, the Delaware County Symphony has provided classical music experiences to area residents. Based at Neumann University’s Meagher Theatre, this 70-member community orchestra has also performed at regional venues like the Kimmel Center, Wilmington’s Grand Opera House, the Philadelphia Museum of Art and the Media Theatre.
To celebrate our nation’s 250th birthday, their 2025–26 Symphony Series is aptly titled “Pride and Patriotism.” Up next is “Coming to America” on December 7, featuring music by composers who immigrated to the U.S. — Dvořák’s “American Suite,” Erich Korngold’s “Cello Concerto” and Rachmaninoff’s “Sym-
Southern Brandywine Valley — So Much to Celebrate!
Carol Metzker
STEP INTO THE KENNETT
Library to find great stories. Some are in the books on the shelves of the two-years-young resource center. Other epics are created by visitors at the library’s Student Makerspace — projects taking shape with its 3D printers and tunes composed and played on musical keyboards made of flowers, paintings or other items using innovative Makey Makey kits.
Some of the area’s greatest chronicles are in a spectacular mural created by local artist Al Moretti, celebrating the diverse history, people and community of the area — mushroom farms, Lenape Indians, Harriet Tubman, Mexican dancers, a horseback rider and man of letters Bayard Taylor, as well as the influence of Longwood Gardens. The mural’s subjects sketch out an agenda of not-to-be-missed sights. Its title,
“Begin Your Journey Here,” is the perfect way to start your own trip to the southern Brandywine region.
THE GREAT MUSHROOM
Head up the ramp for a seat at the counter, a mushroom omelet and a glimpse of a wall with a tribute to artist Andrew Wyeth. After five years of waiting and in time for its 75th birthday, Hank’s Place
— known for its breakfasts and eclectic clientele including Brandywine Valley artists — reopened this summer at its original Chadds Ford location.
You can still get Hank’s Classics: mushroom and cheese ravioli and cream of mushroom soup — celebrating the local area’s fame as the mushroom capital — or the Kennett Angus burger, harkening back to the diner’s 1950 origins as a hamburger stand. Its comfort food from scratch never
goes out of style, including its Thanksgiving turkey dinners and turkey breast sandwich — whether it’s the day after the holiday or not.
Find mushrooms of another sort at renowned Longwood Gardens. In case you’ve missed it in other seasons, book a table now at 1906 — the restaurant overlooking the gardens’ holiday lights and a floor just below the Conservatory’s grand trees that go on display on November 22. Order a floral-inspired mocktail, a salad of greens and colorful flower petals in a charming china bowl along with a whole chicken roasted to absolute perfection. Just save room for dessert — a magnificent Caramelia, with decadent chocolate mousse and espresso caramel disguised as a brilliant red mushroom atop cocoa soil. A perfect delight!
OFF TO THE RACES
After last year’s cancellation due to unsafe ground conditions, horses and riders are put to the test again on November 2 in the Pennsylvania Hunt Cup’s timber steeplechase. No matter who takes home a trophy, the heart-thumping, rigorous race on the four-mile course with 18 fences in Unionville also provides a win for the Chester County Food Bank. The Food Bank,
1. Brandywine Conservancy’s Laurels Preserve
2. Hank’s Place
3. 1906 at Longwood Gardens
4. “Begin Your Journey Here” mural by Al Moretti at
which serves 50,000 residences each year, is the recipient of a portion of the event’s proceeds.
Just in time for the Cup’s 90th year, organizers have added a Farm-to-Table VIP tent. Thanks to GiaBella Catering and nearby Moore Meats, an amazing menu is in the works. Spirits from Pennsylvania Distilling Company, also local to Chester County, can be found at the festivities.
THE UNDERGROUND RAILROAD
A vital part of the region’s history is one that was, by necessity, secret. The Underground Railroad — a covert network of people, hiding places and routes to lead enslaved African Americans to freedom — lives on in history, stories, music, art and work against injustice’s root causes.
Room 1 of Artelo — a year-old contactless hotel that’s also an immersion in original art wrapped around the bedroom walls — carries a statement about the efforts in the 1800s to the present. Its walls hold a message in the form an anagram. Colorful letters spell out “Keep Going,” Harriet Tubman’s mantra, according to legend. Among the painting’s colorful geometric shapes, black and white roads represent the Underground Railroad. The identity of the collaborative artists who created the mural is also wrapped in mystery. They simply refer to themselves as Mz. Icar (“racism” spelled backward). Even the hotel’s owner, Square Roots Collective, doesn’t keep a record of the artists’ names.
Profits from the hotel are disbursed through grants to community initiatives, including Family Promise, a local nonprofit that helps families facing homelessness to achieve housing and sustainability.
FLOWERS FOR WELLNESS
Don’t miss the seasonal views and scents of the region’s flora. Longwood’s paradisical gardens inspire horticulturists, designers and arrangers for miles.
Lily, a 16-year-old, is creating her own story with beautiful blooms. Carrying on entrepreneurial and caring traits of her family, she buys flowers from a local farm and creates arrangements that she sells at her mother’s Kennett Square business, Renew Laser & Aesthetic Medicine. While mom Michelle removes external scars, Lily helps with teens’ emotional ones: “Supporting teen mental health one bouquet at a time.” Profits from her new venture — Lily & Lotus Flowers — go to the Jed Foundation to prevent teen suicide and promote wellness.
For a blossom that lasts throughout winter, create one at an upcoming glassblowing class at WGK Glass Art. Shop for already-crafted glass flowers and ornaments at their gallery in Toughkenamon.
RAISE A GLASS TO YOUR OWN MILESTONE
In the rolling hills of Nottingham — countryside that has been the toast of Chester County for centuries — lies a gorgeous farm with 25 acres of grapevines. Welcome to Wayvine Winery & Vine-
5. Artelo
yard. Two brothers, founder and operators Zachary and James Wilson, have transformed the family’s dairy barn into a rustic, charming tasting room with cozy nooks and balcony. Outdoor space holds picnic tables, bonfires and weekend music next to the silo, all with beautiful views including vines grown on the estate.
Wayvine’s top sellers are the red carmine and white dry riesling, but don’t be shy about tasting the red blends with names that evoke southeastern Pennsylvania’s wildlife — Whitetail and Bullfrog. Check out the labels inspired by friends’ artwork and legendary family moments, including photos of the Wilson young men’s dad with his truck stuck in the mud and grandma climbing a tree. Pairing note: Dad’s and Uncle Scott’s homemade wood-fired pizza marvelously accompanies the dry carmine. If you didn’t have a chance to pick up a beer from Brothers Kershner Brewing Co. at the Pennsylvania Hunt Cup’s 90th race, or you want another for your own special occasion, no worries. The family-owned business opened a new location, The Barrel, this summer in Avondale. The taproom-with-restaurant serves bites, brisket and burgers with their whiskey BBQ sauce. Try them with a craft beer: BingBangBoom IPA; Porch, an American ale; or Johann, a German pilsner.
In addition to beer, find cocktails, snacks and heaps of fun at the neighborhood spot.
STAY A LITTLE LONGER, WRITE ANOTHER ADVENTURE
Artelo isn’t the only place with intriguing character for an overnight stay.
Whether you’re looking for a cozy place to read half the night after a day in the Brandywine Valley or to recharge between dreamy linens on a king bed before the next day’s excursions, try the Bookhouse Hotel. This new boutique storybook hotel offers charming accommodations, with each of the four unique rooms providing a magical escape.
The Studio offers a king bed nestled into a handcrafted bookshelf, an antique rocker and a vintage-tiled shower. The Study’s bistro table and accent chairs beckon guests for morning coffee or tea. Read or pen your memoirs on the velvet sofa or in the clawfoot tub (shower combo) of the romantic Writer’s Den’s bathroom. And the Secret Garden suite, inspired by the novel, has two bedrooms, clawfoot tub-shower combo bathroom and stairs to a special attic hideaway.
STEPPING INTO THE FOREST, you’ll find ferns are often the first to greet you. Whether illuminated by dappled sunlight filtering through the canopy or shimmering with fresh raindrops, ferns inhabit the hush of the understory. Resilient and graceful, they rise from the shaded forest floor, mossy logs and even rocky slopes, gradually unfurling from curled fiddleheads.
Along shaded trails across southeastern Pennsylvania, including at Jenkins Arboretum & Gardens, ferns anchor the understory with their story of persistence. These ancient plants have been part of our Earth’s history for more than 350 million years. Survivors of mass extinction events, witnesses to evolution and architects of forested ecosystems, ferns invite us to walk among them and brush against deep time.
FERNS’
HISTORY
Predating both flowering plants (known as angiosperms) and modern trees, ferns are among the oldest plant groups on Earth. Fossil records trace their lineage back to the middle Devonian epoch — about 380 million years ago. These ancient ferns looked somewhat different back then, ranging from small and bush-like to large tree ferns.
What we recognize as modern ferns appeared during the Cretaceous period, during the age of dinosaurs, only about 70 million years ago. The long evolutionary history of ferns is a testament to their resilience. Ferns have survived at least four of the five mass extinction events, including the asteroid impact that killed the dinosaurs. Ferns are known as pteridophytes, from the Greek terms for feather (pteron) and plant (phyton). These are vascular plants — meaning plants with specialized tissue for transporting water and minerals (xylem and phloem).
And, unlike flowering plants, ferns reproduce with spores. Structures called sporangia are filled with spores and can often be found on the underside of fern fronds. When the spores are released, they develop into a small form, where sexual reproduction then takes place.
FERNS IN THE FOREST
Despite being a tasty snack for some dinosaurs, ferns are not a popular food source for most modern animals. However, the diversity of ferns allows them to contribute a variety of other benefits to their ecosystems. Plant debris from ferns improves soil quality, as it increases nutrients in the soil. As ferns grow, they also maintain consistent moisture levels, further enhancing soil health.
In addition to providing many ecological advantages, ferns are also indicators that provide valuable insight into the health of an ecosystem. Because ferns are sensitive to changes in environmental conditions, such as light and pollution, their presence or absence can reveal signs of environmental stress and change. These qualities are seen more clearly in ferns growing in their native range.
Often overlooked, ferns are ecologically indispensable. Native ferns support biodiversity, providing crucial habitat and shelter for insects, amphibians and small mammals. Ferns’ structure provides foraging space for ground-feeding birds, such as the American robin. Amphibians and reptiles, including frogs, turtles and salamanders, often use ferns as shelter, since their fronds provide a great hiding spot.
NATIVE FERNS
Many native ferns are strongly intertwined with the life cycles of native wildlife. One of the most recognizable native ferns in our region is the cinnamon fern (Osmundastrum cinnamomeum), which is easily identified by its spore-bearing fronds that turn brown in the spring, resembling sticks of cinnamon. Cinnamon ferns’ fiddleheads are covered in fuzz used for the plant’s own protection and are also used by birds as material for nests.
Another common species native to Pennsylvania is the Christmas fern (Polystichum acrostichoides). This fern is evergreen, even through Christmas, giving it its name. Some people even say the leaflets of the Christmas fern look like stockings. In the winter, this fern’s fronds droop low against the forest floor, which,
along with fallen leaves, create habitat for leaf-dwelling critters such as beetles and salamanders.
These are just two examples of the many benefits native ferns can provide for the forest and your garden. Embracing native ferns not only enhances natural beauty but also sustains wildlife and strengthens the ecosystem. By conserving and cultivating these resilient species and supporting local gardens, we can become part of a broader conservation effort, nurturing both the landscape and biodiversity.
FERNS’ LEGACY
Ferns are living echoes of landscapes that existed hundreds of millions of years before us. Next time you find yourself meandering through a forest or wandering through a garden, pause to appreciate the subtle beauty of a delicate, yet resilient, fern frond. Look a little closer, and you might notice
1.
2. Maidenhair fern unfurling in spring
3. Ferns growing at the base of a dawn redwood tree
4. Sporangia displayed on the underside of a Christmas fern
5. The spore-bearing fronds of cinnamon fern in spring
Jenkins Arboretum & Gardens is a 48-acre public garden showcasing native flora of the eastern United States and a world-class collection of rhododendrons and azaleas. The member-supported gardens are open every day of the year and always with free admission. Plan your visit by visiting the website, JenkinsArboretum.org
Fresh fern fronds cover the forest floor at Jenkins
The Best Gifts Don’t Need Two-Day Shipping
LOCAL, SUSTAINABLE, CURATED GIFT BASKETS
Cara Corridoni
THE BRANDYWINE VALLEY
has countless charming shops and boutiques to tempt holiday shoppers. There are chic home goods stores, farmstands with award-winning wares, and boutiques filled with the latest fashions. Plus, there are well-known fan favorites and hidden gems dotting our area.
While each is a destination in its own right, what if you could pick a bobble from here, a jam from there, a candle from down the way, to create the ultimate gift basket? Well, we did that for you!
Here are themed gift baskets designed to inspire thinking outside the internet, with a head start on holiday shopping. You’re welcome.
COZY UP BASKET
With temperatures starting to cool, this basket is just what you need to get your cozy on.
Start with a selection of teas from Mrs. Robinson’s Tea Shop, a mad little tea
shop in Kennett Square. You can’t go wrong with Over the Moon, their green/black tea blend, flavored with strawberries, or their namesake breakfast tea. And when the garlands go up and lights start twinkling, you’ll want to turn to a seasonal blend like Gingersnap, featuring gingersnap rooibos with a special fruit mélange.
The Danes call it hygge, but nothing readies you to settle in for a cozy winter’s night quite like the flickering glow of a candle. Natural air purifiers, beeswax candles are the perfect way to add a soft glow when windows are shut tight. This basket is stocked with geometric tulip candle from Jardine Apiaries, available at Kimberton Whole Foods in Downingtown and other locations. Add in a couple of NewBee Ranch’s All Beeswax Evergreen Tree Candles, snatched while visiting the West Chester Growers Market.
In this basket, you’ll also find pampering shea butter soaps from Wilmington’s Buff
City Soap. All handmade with plant-based ingredients, these soaps help you vanquish winter’s dry air and dark mornings. We suggest a bar of the bestselling Narcissist Shea Butter Soap and the warm, yellow, ultra-moisturizing vibes of the Good Morning Sunshine bar.
Pampered and relaxed, curl up by the fire with a gorgeous Tartan Blanket Co. recycled wool throw from Terrain in Glen Mills and Devon. Made using recycled wool fibers and featuring a vibrant rust and blue tartan print, it’s perfect paired with a cup of tea and a great American novel.
For your next winter read, there are so many choices. Bookmarks in West Chester, Bookish Notions in Media, Main Point Books in Wayne, Reads & Co. in Phoenixville and Wellington Square Bookshop in Exton (scheduled reopening October 18). Just make sure to visit an independent book shop where you can get personal assistance!
BEST OF THE BEST LOCAL FOOD BASKET
When the snow starts to fall and the winds blow, it’s best to stay inside. Rejoice in your decision with this custom food basket stocked with only the best.
The Brandywine Valley is home to several exceptional cheese producers, including Honey Brook’s critically acclaimed September Farm. For this basket, include a block of their award-winning Three-Year Cheddar, named best cheese in Pennsylvania by Cooking Light, and a wedge of their popular smoked farmhouse gouda, the perfect accompaniment to the day-afterThanksgiving roast turkey hoagie.
Another option for enjoying your local cheese is to stack it on a thick slice of Saint Peter’s Bakery’s rosemary and sea salt baguette. This Elverson bakery has earned a reputation for its amazing artisan breads, handmade in the same location and same manner for over a century.
Also tucked into this collection of foodie treats is a jar or two of Spotted Horse Provisions jams. A regular at the Berwyn Farmers’ Market, Spotted Horse Provisions focuses on creating healthy, delicious foods that bridge cultures. Dig down to find a jar of blue-ribbon blueberry lavender jam and boozy blackberry jam to warm you up on a cold winter’s eve.
A Brandywine Valley foodie adventure would not be complete without some mushrooms from the Mushroom Capital of the World. Located in the heart of mushroom country, The Woodlands at Phillips Farm is an excellent place to score a variety of farm-fresh fungi. This basket includes a pound of the versatile Phillips royal trumpets and a pound of wood ear mushrooms, grown next door at Phillips
Farm, a fourth-generation Kennett Square family mushroom farm.
FYI, we’re skipping the basket for this collection of goodies and stuffing our picks into a Talula’s Canvas and Cork Grocery Tote. Everything this gourmet cafe does is wonderful, and that includes its ecofriendly canvas totes. Wow the recipient by tucking inside a gift card to Kennett Square’s Talula’s Table, the ultimate celebration of the best of farm-to-table.
INDULGE YOURSELF BASKET
After the shopping is done and the bows and ribbons put away, why not allow yourself a little time to enjoy life’s pleasures? This basket of locally stocked indulgences is here to get you started.
1. Buff City Soap’s Narcissist Shea Butter Soap
2. Tartan Blanket Co. recycled wool throw
3. New-Bee Ranch’s All Beeswax Evergreen Tree Candle
4. Talula’s Canvas and Cork Grocery Tote
5. September Farm’s Three-Year Cheddar
6. Spotted Horse Provisions’ boozy blackberry jam
Indulge your skin with protective Quinta Esencia oils from Adorn Goods in Centreville. The ultra-moisturizing FACE oil is made primarily of Chilean rosehip seed oil, a natural antioxidant, and rich in phytosterols, fatty acids and vitamin C. There’s also a little argan oil, moringa oil and sea buckthorn to help promote cell regeneration. A drop here, a drop there and your skin will glow all winter long.
Wiping crumbs from the corners of your mouth has never been so elegant. Stonewashed linen napkins from Life’s Patina in Chester Springs take dining sophistication to a new level. The soft ivory fabric will add a nod of fresh fallen snow to your tablescape. But don’t worry, these versatile napkins will see use all year long.
Saving can be boring, but gorgeous beaded credit card holders from Shoppe Marché in Kennett make it easier to keep those cards tucked away. Shimmery pouches come in an assortment of colors, including canary yellow, ruby red and rainbow.
For a sweet treat, Éclat Chocolate’s cube collection includes six perfectly square masterpieces from the West Chester-based chocolatier. Inspired by the Bauhaus aesthetic, the historic German art school credited with revolutionizing modern design, these geometric chocolate casings each fea-
ture unique layered flavors like chocolatebourbon-pecan and coffee-vanilla.
Finally, indulge your whole self with a Drift Spa gift card. Recently named Best Spa by Philadelphia Magazine, this Lancaster day spa is the perfect place to duck away from slush-covered sidewalks, incomplete shopping lists and unanswered emails. Start with a Mineral Mood Reset, followed by the Drift Away Signature Massage, and the promise that by the end, the day’s stresses will almost certainly have drifted away.
NATURE LOVERS BASKET
To have a favorite season, you must experience them all. This basket of treats is designed to help you make the most of nature’s diverse tapestry.
To get started, add a Natural Lands membership to support a conservation organization with 40 nature preserves and one public garden, Stoneleigh in Villanova. Admission to the preserves is free to all, but membership gets you access to special events, garden center discounts and a subscription to Natural Lands’ magazine. It also helps support the work of this important organization in keeping our area green.
To keep you going, include a pair of Brooks W Cascadia 18 series trail runners from the Bryn Mawr Running Company in Bryn Mawr, Media, West Chester and Wilmington. Lightweight and versatile,
this popular shoe has garnered fans among amateur hikers and serious trail runners alike. Plus, the black and purple colorway provides the perfect cover for winter’s muddy trails and slush-filled sidewalks.
More of an observer than a hiker? Randall Graham’s six-week plein air class teaches you the pleasure of painting outdoors with birdsong in your ears and sunshine on your skin, not in your eye. Learn proper setup, how to avoid nature’s pitfalls and the compositional considerations required of painting outdoors. In this basket, you’ll find a gift certificate to the class, which starts in late May.
Did you know Pennsylvania is home to over 400 species of birds? Most leave for warmer climates during fall and winter, but varieties like northern cardinals, blue jays and American goldfinches stick it out locally. Who says you can’t appreciate nature from the warmth of your home?
Find a Perky-Pet Wild Bird Feeder and 20 pounds of Ace Premium Wild Bird Feed, both from Brandywine Ace, Pet & Farm.
Dream Tree by Mary Kate McKinley, OLLI member/instructor
Thanks for the Memories
WHEN IT’S TIME FOR SENIOR MEMORY CARE, HELP IS THERE
Carol Metzker
MY FATHER HAD ALZHEIMER’S disease for 18 years For a long time, he and my mother managed his slipping memory — forgetting tasks or friends’ names. For a while, he skillfully covered up memory lapses with humor. Songs he’d known much of his life — for example, tune and lyrics to “Found a Peanut”— would sometimes spark memories that brought him back to us to share stories of dating Mom long before she was our mother.
But there came the days when he didn’t remember where he lived, whether he was a retired adult or schoolchild, or who we were. Eventually, he was left with emotion and motion. Even the rosiest of sunsets sometimes brought on his blues, a deep despair. A few times he believed he was living his fears of 1944. We still had some wonderful moments together on walks or sipping iced mochas, but those moments were fleeting.
We were not alone. Families of nearly 7 million people in the United States live a similar scenario. In Pennsylvania, 11.5% of adults over the age of 65 are living with Alzheimer’s disease or similar symptoms.
Fortunately, there are senior-care communities with programs designated to help loved ones with memory loss. And it’s okay to ask for help.
“AH YES, I REMEMBER IT WELL”
Magnolia Crossing is a special “neighborhood” inside the main building at Granite Farms Estates. Almost two years old, it has a separate room for each senior.
Digital photo frames hang outside each resident’s door. Part of reminiscent therapy, photos of what matters to the individual tap into different parts of the brain where wonderful memories are stored. A photo of her loving family helps a senior find her room.
A picture of his first puppy or prized rosebush helps spark conversation and facilitates rapport among resident, visitors and staff.
Inside, rooms hold individuals’ belongings to keep what is familiar at hand. As with other assisted living programs within the Acts-Life Communities, memory care is as personalized as possible to make engagement meaningful. What is known and remembered provides comfort and security beyond 24/7 supervision, assistance with activities of daily living, cognitive stimulation and familiar routines.
Another piece of Magnolia’s reminiscent therapy and a feature of Barclay Friends’ new Goshen Memory Care, which opened this April, looks and feels like fun and games. At a Tovertafel — an interactive, multi-sensory technological “magic table”— seniors gather for activities based on images and light projected onto a tabletop.
Through motion sensors, those images respond to hand movements. (Imagine “Star Trek: The Next Generation’s” Holodeck on a table.) A woman laughs and reminisces with her tablemates about autumn hikes as they pick up real tiny rakes and “move” projected fall leaves to uncover images of ladybugs. Many of the games are based on music, such as music-box melodies of a virtual old-time jewelry box with a twirling ballerina. A side benefit of the magic is the eager participation of grandchildren.
BY DESIGN
Two four-pawed playmates make a special difference at Tel Hai’s Lakehouse Memory Support. Soft, furry robotic pets designed for people with Alzheimer’s and dementia can purr, meow and mimic real cats’ movements. Wonderful for petting and comfort, they can help relieve loneliness and agitation. But forgetting to feed them is never a problem. Even better, they don’t need a litterbox. Tel Hai’s cozy library — home to the cats and calm space for residents to destress or regulate their emotions — also holds a curated collection of puzzles and books for those with Alzheimer’s.
The memory care program at Fieldstone at Chester Springs uses other evidence-based practices to reduce agitation and anxiety as part of a safe, secure environment. Staff serve favorite foods with balanced nutrition on brightly colored plates, while paying attention to mealtime verbal and nonverbal communication. Programs and events are geared to residents’ specific interests — karaoke bus rides and seated disco dances.
Loss of hearing, eyesight and strength add another layer of complexity to memory problems, including risk for falls. Inside and outside of residential programs, with or without dementia, falls tend to be the top reason for elders’ emergency room visits. And unfamiliar hospital rooms and routines can increase seniors’ confusion. So Fieldstone offers A Matter of Balance programs. The small-group activities, exercise, problem-solving and planning reduce risks of falls and ensuing trips to the ER.
HELPING THE HELPERS
Tel Hai’s Lakehouse Memory Support Team offers professional experience and therapeutic programs for loved ones caring for someone with dementia, as well as residential care for the senior.
Hear Like a Bat, Remember Like an Elephant
Research from John sHopkins University has established links between hearing loss and cognitive and memory decline. According to the Alzheimer’s Society’s website, “Hearing loss has also been shown to be linked to quicker shrinkage of areas of the brain responsible for processing sounds and memories.”
Simply put, for older adults, hearing loss can cause cognitive overload, limit conversations and stimulation, and create isolation, which can lead to dementia.
“Get your loved one’s hearing tested for decline and how the brain is processing speech,” said Brooke Craig, Au.D., at Aberdeen Audiology. Some older adults aren’t aware that some insurance plans are starting to cover or discount the cost of hearing aids, or provide information about accessibility to aids. Some supplemental plans to Medicare and AARP have discounts. Don’t let concern over price prevent you from making an appointment!
If you already have a hearing aid, consider the audiologist’s tips for seniors to hear better or utilize hearing devices better:
1. First, wear them — don’t leave them on the shelf.
2. Continue follow-up care. Take advantage of aural rehabilitation courses to make the most of hearing aids.
3. Clean devices with tools provided by the audiologist.
4. Understand how to use aids in a restaurant or church. Audiologists can help select the best technological device based on clients’ typical environments (attending meetings, eating with large groups or leading a quiet life).
5. Find out how your senior life community helps with hearing aids. Some have monthly audiologist visits. Some hold hearing aids in recharging units at the nurses’ station overnight. Some add assistance with battery checks and changes along with ear insertion to care plans. Others rely on adult children to take a parent to an audiologist’s office to clean hearing aids or remove ear wax from a parent’s ears.
While Beethoven composed music for decades with a deteriorating hearing loss — even trying an ear trumpet to no avail — today we have access to hearing aids and other modern treatments that can work wonders. Get your hearing checked at your next medical appointment … and create your own ode to joy.
1. Tel Hai’s Lakehouse Memory Support
2. Furry friends provide comfort at Barclay Friends’ Goshen Memory Care
3. Fieldstone at Chester Springs’ memory care program keeps seniors’ minds and reflexes sharp
4. Tel Hai’s Lakehouse Memory Support Team offers professional experience and therapeutic programs for both seniors and their loved ones
Their facilitated Care Partner Support Group gives participants a safe place to share stories, ask questions, express frustrations, explore strategies for managing dementia-related behaviors and rediscover laughter with peers.
Patty Winstead, a memory care marketing consultant with years of compassionate experience in the field, offers an Alzheimer’s caregiver support group at Chester County’s Hankin Library and started one at Fieldstone this fall.
TIPS TO HELP A FRIEND WITH ALZHEIMER’S
Whether a dear one is moving to a memory care unit or still in your care, tips from experts can make your time together a little easier and more meaningful. Here are some suggestions.
• Family members and friends can provide photos, small belongings, playlists of cherished music and information about favorite activities, memories and rou-
A Safer Home
What changes in the home can caregivers make to support loved ones with memory loss? Here are a few adjustments to help create a safer environment in familiar surroundings and reduce daily stress for both of you.
• Label, Label, Label. Clearly label drawers, closets, rooms and other things with large-print signs (e.g., “Snacks,” “Clothes,” “Toilet”) to make daily tasks easier.
• Simplify. Reduce clutter and keep items that are used often in the same spot. Predictability and routine can reduce anxiety.
• Lights Up. Install motion-activated night lights in bedrooms, hallways and bathrooms to help prevent falls in the night.
• Smart Safety. Consider installing “smart” features, like automatic shut-off devices for stoves, smart plugs for appliances and door alarms or safety latches to help prevent wandering.
• Info Central. Designate one spot — a bulletin board or the fridge door — for posting a daily routine along with all appointments, medication reminders and notes.
• Helpful Tech. Use voice assistants, like Alexa or Google Home, for medication reminders and to answer simple questions. These devices can also play familiar music upon request!
• Spark Joy. Put family photos and favorite keepsakes in places they can be seen. Familiar items offer emotional grounding and happy memories.
tines to maintain as much comfortable familiarity as possible.
• Keep questions and choices simple, suggested Winstead. Offer one or two options, then give them time to let questions process and then to formulate a reply. That reply might take 30 seconds, which may feel like a long time, but it’s worth it.
• Singing the recognizable happy birthday song can create a light-hearted feeling to kick off smiles and conversation. If the family is agitated, interactions will be harder for everyone.
• Many communities establish a consistent routine, create a calm environment, soft music and gentle touch to help seniors with the turmoil of “sundowning syndrome” — confusion, anxiety and agitation that occurs in the late afternoon and lasts into the night.
• Make time for sunlight and fresh air. Tel Hai residents enjoy a secure outdoor porch. Barclay Friends’ courtyard path
meanders under an arbor, past gardens and benches for resting among birds and butterflies, and a patio where plenty of people gather for conversation, yet loops back to its start so no one gets lost.
• When making hard decisions, be gentle on yourself. It’s hard to say goodbye to someone who isn’t like they once were. When considering help, take into account that with other care, a spouse or partner can return to being a spouse instead of acting as 24/7 caregiver. A grown child can be a loving offspring instead of an aide managing household duties. A partner can focus on loving moments instead of vigilance to ensure a loved one doesn’t wander from home.
Guide to 55+ and Retirement Communities & Services
55+ COMMUNITIES FOR THE FIT, ACTIVE AND INDEPENDENT
There are a variety of communities in our area built and managed for active seniors living an active and healthy lifestyle with amenities geared toward that group. Whether you’re looking for a townhouse, condo, apartment or single home, these communities cater to older adults and offer settings that generally feel like resorts. They’re designed to make retirement healthier and more enjoyable.
PENNSYLVANIA
Exton
Meridian at Eagleview
484-873-8110; MeridianEagleview.com
Glen Mills
Ivy Creek
610-981-2740; SeniorLivingInStyle.com
King of Prussia
Canvas Valley Forge
844-400-6435; CanvasValleyForge.com
see our ad on page 55
Experience active adult living at Canvas Valley Forge, where vibrant community and lifestyle meet. Enjoy beautifully designed apartments, curated amenities and endless opportunities to explore your passions. From fitness classes to social events and new hobbies, Canvas offers everything you need to live life to the fullest in a community designed just for you.
West Chester
Harrison Hill Apartments
610-430-6900; HarrisonHillApts.com
see our ad on page 56
“Harrison Hill is more than a community; it is a neighborhood!” 55+ independent residents enjoy Monday Mingle, holiday
festivities, barbecues and more. A festive, family-oriented, welcoming environment features five stories that offer 114 apartment homes comprised of one bedrooms and one bedrooms with a den, all with walk-in showers & washer/dryers.
Hershey’s Mill
610-436-8900; HersheysMill55Plus.com
INDEPENDENT LIVING COMMUNITIES, WITH CONTINUING CARE AND LIFE CARE COMMUNITIES
Many seniors are currently independent but want or need, for themselves or their spouse, to live with support—moving from independent living to assisted living, followed by skilled nursing and several kinds of specialized facilities. When the sequence is combined on a single campus, it’s called a continuing care community or
life care community. Those listed have strong independent living programs.
PENNSYLVANIA
Cornwall
Cornwall Manor
717-274-8092; CornwallManor.org
see our ad on page 52
Cornwall Manor is a not-for-profit community located in historic Cornwall. Providing a fulfilling lifestyle for individuals 60+ since 1949, the community is located in a natural wooded setting with a variety of independent homes and apartments, onsite health care, top-notch amenities and services, and maintenance-free living. You owe it to yourself to visit Cornwall Manor.
Exton
Exton Senior Living
610-594-0200; ExtonSeniorLiving.com
Glen Mills
Glen Mills Senior Living 610-358-4900; GlenMillsSeniorLiving.com
Honey Brook
Tel Hai Retirement Community
484-796-4262; TelHai.org
see our ad on page 55
“Life is better at Tel Hai!” Set in the scenic countryside of Chester County, Tel Hai blends vibrant senior living with peace of mind. From cottages, apartments and townhomes to their unmatched amenities, you’ll find the perfect setting to embrace your passions. Plus, as a life plan community, they provide the full continuum of care—ensuring confidence and comfort at every stage of retirement.
Kennett Square
Friends Home in Kennett 610-444-2577; FriendsHomeInKennett.org
Kendal-Crosslands Communities
844-907-1800; KCC.Kendal.org
see our ad on page 22
Adjacent to Longwood Gardens on a 500+-acre accredited arboretum campus, the community provides two life plan communities and two 50+ neighborhoods with customizable cottages and apart-
ments. Amenities include pools, art studios, gardens, hiking trails, dog park, tennis and pickleball courts, fitness, libraries and putting greens, plus highly rated healthcare. Member of Leading Age, FSA and accredited by CARF-CCAC.
Malvern
Echo Lake 484-568-4777
LivingAtEchoLake.com
Media
Riddle Village
610-891-3700; RiddleVillage.org
Multiple Locations
Acts Retirement–Life Communities 888-521-3651
AboutActs.com/CountyLinesMag
see our ad on page 9
For more than 50 years, Acts
Retirement-Life Communities have provided residents gracious living options and a maintenance-free, amenity-filled lifestyle that allows them to celebrate the good life without all the worries. Best of all, Acts Life
Delaware Hospice
Harmony at Hockessin
Canvas Valley Forge
Harrison Hill Apartments
This year, Dunwoody Village celebrates 100 years of caring, first as the Dunwoody Convalescent Home that opened in 1924 and then, in 1974, as one of the first continuing care retirement communities in the Delaware Valley. It takes fortitude and vision — and adaptability — to withstand the test of time. While we pay homage to our cherished past, we celebrate our enduring commitment to excellence, forging a legacy that will endure for generations to come. We invite you to become a part of our vibrant community. Contact us today.
Care lets residents pay for future care in today’s dollars should their needs change.
Morningside House
610-594-0455; MHSeniorLiving.com
see our ad on page 56
Discover exceptional senior living with Morningside Senior Living. Locally rooted communities in Exton, Collegeville, Towamencin and Blue Bell offer supportive personal care, memory care and short-term stays. Each location features apartmentstyle residences, compassionate teams and engaging wellness programs—including onsite therapy services—designed to help residents thrive in vibrant, personalized environments where comfort, care and community come together.
Newtown Square
Dunwoody Village
610-359-4400; Dunwoody.org
see our ad on page 52
Located in a suburban setting on 83 picturesque acres, Dunwoody Village is a fivestar rated CCRC with a host of amenities. Dunwoody offers residents independent living, personal care, skilled nursing and memory support, as well as rehabilitation and home care to both residents and the outside community. Plan for tomorrow by getting on the waiting list today.
White Horse Village
610-558-5000; WhiteHorseVillage.org
see our ad on page 54
Discover White Horse Village, a senior living community on 109 scenic acres. Residents enjoy a vibrant lifestyle with abundant activities, wellness programs, exceptional dining, stylish living options and the security of a full continuum of care. First-class amenities include multiple dining venues, a tavern, wellness center, indoor pool/spa, bocce, art studio, hiking trails, community garden and more.
Rosemont
The Mansion at Rosemont
610-632-5835
TheMansionAtRosemont.org
see our ad on page 51
The Mansion at Rosemont is a premier boutique life plan community set amid the
lush grounds of the historic Beaupre Estate in the heart of the Main Line. Boasting unmatched architectural beauty in addition to newly renovated apartment homes and cottages, the only thing more beautiful than the community itself is the warmth of the people who call it home.
Wallingford
Plush Mills
610-859-4445; PlushMills.com
West Brandywine
Freedom Village at Brandywine 484-288-2200; FVBrandywine.com
West Chester
Barclay Friends
610-696-5211; BF.Kendal.org
see our ad on page 56
Located in a quiet neighborhood, Barclay Friends offers a welcoming environment to engage in meaningful connections and lifelong interests. Residents may do every-
thing from creative arts and gardening to mindfulness and community gatherings. The campus features spaces designed to invite conversation, reflection and personal growth. A continuum of health and wellness services is available.
The Hickman Friends
Senior Community of West Chester
484-760-6300; TheHickman.org
see our ad on page 51
Guided by Quaker traditions since 1891, The Hickman is a nonprofit senior living community where compassion, connection and comfort come together. Residents enjoy personalized care and a vibrant lifestyle in the heart of historic West Chester. Discover The Hickman Effect—where every moment feels like home. “When You’re Here, You’re Home.”
Opened in summer 2025. Discover more than a new home at Harmony—find friendship, vibrant community and carefree living. For over 40 years, Harmony communities have celebrated the fun and connection of senior living. Enjoy spacious apartments, weekly housekeeping and exciting amenities. A full calendar of events and complimentary transportation make life easier and more enjoyable.
IN-HOME CARE & SPECIAL SERVICES
For those seeking comfort or support during treatment for a serious illness.
DELAWARE
WILMINGTON
Delaware Hospice
800-838-9800; DelawareHospice.org
see our ad on page 45
You’re not alone in facing serious illness. Delaware Hospice embraces you and your loved one with a community-focused continuum of support, providing more than
The Mansion at Rosemont
Morningside House
Freedom & Independence to discover new horizons
At Tel Hai, we’re about living life to its fullest! For residents Dr. Anthony & Lois Georeno, the time is now. With more than 30 cruises and 46 years of marriage under their belt, their time is precious as they seek to make every moment count — whether it’s enjoying community amenities or adventures abroad. Loving the flexibility of retirement community living, the Georenos cherish the peace of mind of a solid care plan for their future.
Choose a Life Plan Community that offers the freedom and independence to live life on your terms, plus the assurance of priority access to continuing care services if or when you need it.
It’s time to get started today! Schedule a visit online at: telhai.org/visit
• Open Floor Plans for 1BR Apts & 1BRs with Dens
• Kitchens w/ Granite & Cherry Cabinets
• Washer Dryer & Walk-In Showers in every Unit.
• Fitness Center, Media Room & Social Areas on every floor.
• Peace of Mind, Secure, Cost Effective, Independent Senior Living
• Social Community of Residents
Mon, Wed, Fri 9AM–4PM Tues & Thurs 11AM–3PM Weekends Appointments Only 1015 Andrew Drive West Chester, PA 19380 610.430.6900
in-home hospice care. Whether you need community resources, palliative care or grief support, they provide comprehensive care to children and adults for every stage of serious illness. Call or visit their website for local, expert care.
SENIOR SERVICES & CONTINUING EDUCATION
DELAWARE WILMINGTON
Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at the University of Delaware 302-573-4417; OLLI.UDel.edu see our ad on page 45
When the previous medical facility in West Grove shut down due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Southern Chester County faced a loss not just of a hospital – but also of access to crucial medical services. Residents traveled more than 45 minutes to reach the nearest hospital, while urgent care centers had limited offerings.
Today, the reopening of ChristianaCare Hospital, West Grove, led by Dr. Thomas Kramer, has transformed treatment options. The hospital now operates as a full-service acute care facility, featuring a 10-bed Emergency Department, diagnostic imaging, laboratories and inpatient services.
ChristianaCare Hospital, West Grove delivers comprehensive emergency and inpatient care in close proximity to residents. Dr. Kramer proudly says the hospital’s diagnostic and treatment capabilities surpass those of urgent care centers,
addressing a wide range of medical needs from chest pain and infections to trauma and strokes.
EMS teams have benefitted from enhanced accessibility by being able to transport patients locally instead of traveling long distances to area hospitals. This improvement saves crucial time and enables EMS teams to resume their duties promptly.
Dr. Kramer emphasizes the importance of efficiency in maintaining the quality of care, citing advantages of close teamwork and rapid communication due to the hospital’s smaller size. Patients also benefit through support of ChristianaCare’s broad network and telemedicine specialists.
Originally hailing from Boston, Dr. Kramer now considers the region his home and expresses his commitment to serving the community. He finds fulfillment in assisting and positively impacting the lives of those around him on a daily basis.
Transforming treatment options, the hospital now operates as a full-service acute care facility.
1015 West Baltimore Pike, West Grove, PA 19390 christianacareneighborhoodhospitals.org
Now Open:
1. Unique Holiday Gifts
Shop for one-of-a-kind artisan gifts. HGC’s Holiday Art & Fine Craft Show, Nov. 8 & 9, 10 to 5.
Haverford Guild of Craftsmen, Haverford
See ad on page 24
2. Unique Gifts & Decor
Shop Matlack for greenhouse treasures, fun gifts and floral designs for every occasion. Holiday Preview, November 22. Matlack Florist, West Chester
See ad on page 60
3. Holiday Sparkle
Exquisite multi-shaped fancy yellow and white diamond tennis bracelet set in 18k gold
Michael Cook Jeweler— Fine Jewelry, Paoli
See ad on page 12
4. Gifts of Nature & Science
Shop the Delaware Museum of Nature and Science Museum Store for nature- and science-inspired books, toys, activity kits, home decor, jewelry and more. Or, give the gift of membership.
Delaware Museum of Nature & Science
See ad on page 60
5. Mini Poinsettias
Liven up your gift list with holiday greenery from local plant experts. Mostardi Nursery, Newtown Square
See ad on page 24
On Small Business Saturday, Remember to Dine Small, Too!
A TASTY WAY TO SUPPORT LOCAL
“S HOPPING SMALL” ON NOVEMBER 29TH, THE Saturday after Thanksgiving, may initially make us think about supporting local shops, boutiques and crafts markets rather than heading to the mall. But independently owned restaurants are yet another key part of the small business community. They also deserve a seat at the table on Small Business Saturday.
Dining at locally owned restaurants supports more than one great meal. It keeps more money circulating in our community. Like local shops, independent eateries return significantly more revenue to the local economy than national chains — for every $100 spent at local businesses, about $68 stays local. Your meal tab helps pay staff, buy local ingredients, and keep our downtowns vibrant during the holidays and beyond.
Local restaurants also add distinctive flavors and options to our towns. From family-run BYOBs to chef-driven top-end options, these places reflect the character of our communities. Choosing to eat local means not just feeding yourself but investing in our local
identity. And since many restaurants source from other small businesses — farms, bakeries and breweries — you get more bang from each bite.
A brut style pairs with fried or fatty appetizers.
The dry, fruity citrus flavors match with salads.
Rich, full-bodied and oak-aged, matches earthy dishes.
MOSCATO SAUVIGNON BLANC PINOT NOIR
Sweet with a fizz, the bubbles cleanse the palate.
Citrus, melon and grassy notes pair well with lighter first-course dishes or greens.
Ranging from dry to sweet, pair it with fruit-focused desserts.
PORT
Lighter body and tart acidity hit all the right notes when paired with any main course. Rich nuttiness that matches pecan, almond or hazelnut desserts.
ROSÉ GEWÜRZTRAMINER ZINFANDEL LATE HARVEST
Dry or sweet, its fruit-forward freshness complements salty, fried or flavorfully spicy pre-dinner bites.
Please enjoy responsibly.
Dry or sweet, floral, spice and apricot aromas pair with rich soups or sweet potatoes.
Rich, fruit-forward notes match well-seasoned meats.
This Thanksgiving, don’t forget about cider — the crisp, refreshing complement to every dish on your table. From dry, sparkling varieties that cut through rich flavors to sweet blends that echo fall’s harvest, cider brings out the best in turkey, sides and pie alike. Here’s how to find your perfect pour for every course, courtesy of the experts at Dressler Estate.
Lighter-flavored cider to pair with snacks and stimulate the appetite.
Low-tannin, high-acid cider cuts through the flavors of the second course and cleanses the palate between bites.
High tannin-cider produced from cider-specific apple varieties will have a drying effect on the palate, standing up to the richer, meatier flavors of the third course.
Barrel-aged ciders, with notes of oak and toffee, will complement sweeter desserts.
Examples: Fruited cider or hopped cider
Examples: These ciders usually do not reference specific apple varieties, as they are blends of common eating and juicing apples
These ciders will reference specific apple varieties or orchard sites
or
Very sweet and pairs well with sweet, confectionary desserts.
Need a last-minute gift? Shop 24/7 at
Cider Parings
Examples:
Examples: Whiskey
bourbon barrel-aged ciders, or merlot barrel-aged cider for wine lovers
[ ] Food News
Another French. West Chester has a new source for French food for takeout, delivery and catering. Mistral French & Fast promises rustic French cooking — nothing fussy — blending classic bistro flavors with global specials, like Saigon lobster veloute. Menu offerings include bouillabaisse, tuna Nicoise, jambon-beurre sandwiches (ham, butter, baguette), coq au vin and beef bourguignon. Catering choices span gougeres, mini quiche, cassoulet. Magnifique! Limited hours, Wed.–Sun. 130 W. Miner St., West Chester. MistralFrenchAndFast.com
New Eats in Eagleview. Restaurant Row added authentic northern Italian flavors with L’Olivo Tratorria (olive tree) from the folks at Birchrunville Store Café and ButterScotch Pastry Shop — Chef Francis and Nui. Enjoy rustic flavors and creative twists from Executive Chef Jon (of Amani) with signature dishes featuring freshmade pasta and chef’s specials including slowcooked meats and grilled seafood. Initially BYOB, check for updates. 570 Wellington Sq., Exton. LOlivoTratorria.com
The Borough. No, not West Chester Borough, but the longawaiting new restaurant project on Lancaster Ave. in Downingtown that opened mid-October. The Borough, a modern dining spot, with bar (signature drinks, 20 beers on tap) and entertainment space (live music, open mic, karaoke, private parties) serves elevated pub fare along with sushi, a raw bar and gastro-style plates. Its 60 TVs make it a perfect spot to catch the game. Any game. 149 E. Lancaster Ave., Downingtown. Go2Borough.com
Med in Media. Adding seafood and Mediterranean flavors to Media’s diverse restaurant selections, Maris (of the sea) is a seafood-forward new option in the former Two Fourteen space. Local restaurateur Loic Barnieu (La Belle Epoque, Sterling Pig) plans seafood towers, grilled fish and raw bar along with steaks and chops. A new lighter, brighter interior with white and Mediterranean blue accents seats 75 diners, more at the bar. Initially dinner only, with plans for lunch. 214 W. State St., Media. MarisSeafood.com
More Italian. With almost a dozen locations, a new LaScala’s Fire opened in downtown West Chester offering “classic Italian American reimagined” at Jack Loew Plaza. The extensive menu includes almost 20 apps (Tuscan and Fire wings), plenty of salads, paninis, wood-fired pizzas, pastas and favorites (parmigianos, picattas, marsalas) along with … a sushi bar! Good drink selections, plus Happy Hour, weekdays, 3 to 6 p.m. Welcome to West Chester! 44 W. Gay St., West Chester. LaScalasFire.com
Explore Cranberries for the Holidays
SO MUCH MORE THAN A SAUCE
Liz
Tarditi
CRANBERRIES CARRY A REPUTATION AS ONE OF the holiday’s most essential ingredients. Their tart snap cuts through the richness of a feast and their bright color lends instant cheer to both savory dishes and sweets. Native to North America, cranberries have long been part of seasonal traditions from Thanksgiving through the New Year, with Indigenous communities drying and sweetening them and colonial cooks stirring them into relishes and baked goods. And today no holiday table feels complete without their ruby glow.
What makes cranberries remarkable isn’t just their festive color but their personality in the kitchen. They’re one of the few fruits that thrive in cold weather, until harvested in late fall when most gardens are bare. Their natural acidity brightens both meat and pastry and their high pectin content makes them a dream for preserves.
Left whole, cranberries pop and burst like little flavor bombs. Dried, they concentrate into chewy nuggets of tangy sweetness.
Whether cooked into sauce, folded into batter or scattered across a salad, cranberries are endlessly adaptable — small berries with a big role to play. So, how will you use them this holiday season?
We asked Peachtree Catering, the company behind four distinctive local venues, for ideas. Known for crafting menus that celebrate seasonality with inventive twists, Peachtree’s chefs approach the familiar with fresh eyes.
Pastry chef Jennifer Roach-Dixon finds cranberries indispensable in her repertoire. “They’re naturally high in pectin,” she explained. “That means they don’t need added thickeners, so jams and jellies stay beautifully clear. And they’re naturally gluten-free. That’s important for many of our clients.” She shared recipes featuring cranberries in four unexpected guises: in biscotti, individual tartes tatin, a cranberrypear crisp and a panna cotta.
Chef tournant Omar Rosado contributed a sweet bread pudding. Rich and custardy, it gains a festive lift from cranberries — their brightness balancing richness and keeping a classic lively. Together, chefs Roach-Dixon and Rosado embody Peachtree’s philosophy of freshness, craft and warm hospitality. Their holiday recipes show that cranberries are not just a garnish but a signature ingredient — capable of carrying a menu from first bite to final spoonful.
Rich in vitamin C, fiber and antioxidants, cranberries bring much more than color and flavor to the table — they offer real nourishment, too. Their tartness can be tamed with sugar or honey, but it can also be used as a bright contrast in savory dishes or a lively accent in cocktails.
This season, try cranberries beyond the sauce bowl — or worse, the can. After a little exploration and experimentation, you’ll find these berries prove themselves to be not only a holiday tradition but an ingredient worth exploring all year long.
Cornmeal-Cranberry Biscotti
This recipe from Mary DiSomma’s book, “A Gift of Cookies,” adapted by pastry chef Jennifer Roach-Dixon for Peachtree Catering, makes lovely hostess gifts. Using dried fruit and the double-baking method means the biscotti stay fresh for the holiday season and beyond.
Serves 8 (3 to 4 cookies per person)
1 C. all-purpose flour
1 C. cornmeal
½ tsp. nutmeg
½ tsp. baking powder
½ tsp. salt
4 T. butter, room temp
1 C. sugar
2 eggs
Zest of 1 orange
1 tsp. vanilla extract
1 C. dried cranberries
Optional: 1 egg + sanding or coarse sugar for topping
Whisk together the first five dry ingredients and set aside. Beat the butter and sugar together well for 2 minutes.
Combine the eggs, orange zest and vanilla extract in a small bowl. Then beat the egg mixture into the butter mixture. Add the dry ingredients gradually, until well incorporated. Stir in the dried cranberries last, so they don’t stain the dough.
Cover the dough in plastic wrap and chill 20 to 30 minutes. On a floured surface, roll dough into two logs, each about 12 inches long. Place on a parchment-lined cookie sheet about 3 inches apart. Chill the whole pan for another 20 to 30 minutes. Preheat the oven to 350°. Brush the chilled logs with a beaten egg and sprinkle with sanding sugar before baking, if desired. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until golden brown and firm to the touch. Remove from oven and reduce oven temperature to 300°.
Cool cookie logs for 10 minutes until easy to handle, and transfer to a cutting board. Using a serrated knife, slice each log into ½-inch slices. Return slices to baking sheet, cut side down, and toast for about 15 minutes, until dry and firm.
Individual Apple-Cranberry Tartes Tatin
Pastry chef Jennifer Roach-Dixon has excellent pro tips to make these simple and beautiful tatins in a home kitchen. First, use store-bought puff pastry. And whether you use fresh or frozen cranberries, cut each berry in half crosswise to expose a pretty floral design in the fruit. Finally, this recipe can be made up to 12 hours in advance, held at room temperature and then rewarmed right before serving. Perfect for an impressive dessert when entertaining.
Serves 12
For the caramel:
1 C. sugar
1 tsp. corn syrup
¼ C. water
4 T. butter, cut in small cubes, salted preferred
For the tatins:
1 sheet of store-bought frozen puff pastry
½ C. frozen or fresh cranberries
3 medium Granny Smith apples
Prepare a standard 12-cavity muffin tin by spraying with nonstick cooking spray.
Make the caramel by combining the sugar, corn syrup and water in a small saucepan, away from heat. Stir until the consistency is like wet sand.
Cook over medium-high heat, without stirring, until it caramelizes to a deep amber color, about 5 to 7 minutes. As it gets darker, reduce heat and remove from heat just before it becomes as dark as you want it (the radiant heat will finish the cooking).
Whisk the cubes of butter into the caramel until fully smooth. Then divide evenly into the 12 muffin tin cups.
Start to prepare the tatins by thawing the puff pastry.
Next, divide the cut cranberries evenly among the caramel-coated cups, cut-side down.
Peel and quarter apples, keeping each quarter separate. Cut out core and slice ¼-inch thick. Keeping slices together, divide and arrange upside-down (curved, peeled side against cranberries/the bottom of the tin, with the flat, cored side facing up). Set aside.
Unroll the thawed puff pastry and prick all over with a fork. Using a round cutter or a drinking glass slightly larger than the muffin tin cavities, cut out 12 rounds of puff pastry. Place on top of each applefilled cavity, tucking edges in slightly around apples.
Chill tatins in freezer 15 minutes. Preheat oven to 375°. Place muffin pan on a cookie sheet and bake for 15 minutes. Rotate pan, lower heat to 350° and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until pastry is golden brown and puffed, and caramel is seen bubbling around edges.
Cool for 30 minutes, then unmold while warm. (Or, bake up to 12 hours in advance, wrap well when completely cool and store at room temp. Rewarm muffin pan for 5 to 7 minutes at 300° when ready to invert.)
To unmold, place a piece of waxed or parchment paper on top of warm muffin tin, then a cookie sheet, and flip over. Gently remove tin. Tatins should pop out easily. If they don’t release, warm in oven a bit longer.
Cranberry Panna Cotta
Panna cotta, Italian “cooked cream,” is known for its silky texture and understated elegance. In this version, cranberries lend a festive note, adding both color and brightness. Simple to prepare ahead, it makes a graceful finale for holiday gatherings.
Serves 8
1½ C. cranberries, fresh or frozen
¾ C. sugar, divided ¼ C. water
3 sheets gelatin
3 C. heavy cream
1 tsp. vanilla extract
Combine cranberries, ¼ cup sugar and water in a medium pot. Cook over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, for 8 to 10 minutes, until the berries are completely broken down. Set aside. Place the gelatin sheets in a bowl of cold water to soften, about 2 minutes. Remove once soft, squeeze out excess water and set aside. Add the cream, ½ cup sugar and vanilla extract to the cranberry mixture. Warm over medium heat 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasion-
ally, until just warm enough to dissolve the sugar.
Transfer to a blender or use a stick blender to process into a smooth liquid. If using a blender, return the mixture to the pot. Add the softened gelatin and whisk until completely dissolved.
Strain the mixture and portion into eight 4-oz. glass jars, ramekins or cups. Chill for several hours before serving.
Pear & Cranberry Crisp
Sweet pears and tart cranberries baked under a buttery oat topping make a seasonal dessert that’s both rustic and elegant. Chef Jen notes you can prepare the filling and topping separately, then combine just before serving to keep the texture crisp. Because the flour is added with the spices, gluten never forms. Even tastier served warm with ice cream.
Filling/base:
6 ripe pears (Bartlett, red or similar), peeled, cored and diced into ½-inch cubes (about 7 C.)
3 C. frozen or fresh cranberries
1 C. sugar
¾ C. water
2 tsp. cinnamon
1 tsp. nutmeg
2 T. orange juice
Topping:
2 T. sugar
¼ C. brown sugar
½ stick butter (4 T.), room temperature
1 C. rolled oats
1/3 C. all-purpose flour
1 tsp. salt
1 tsp. cinnamon
½ tsp. nutmeg
Optional: ¼ tsp. cardamom or allspice
Serves 8
Berry Clever Tablescapes & Tricks
’Tis the season for fresh cranberries. With bags of those little rubies piled in the produce department, who can resist?
And if you’ve seen an Ocean Spray commercial, you know the classic harvest: farmers flood the bog, step into waders and rake the floating berries across the water. That image is real — most cranberries for juice and sauce are gathered this way. Although the fresh berries we buy bagged are usually picked dry so they stay firm.
That’s important for your holiday décor. The trick is knowing how to use cranberries without, well, bogging down your table.
Cranberries and plain water don’t play well together. Drop them into a vase and they bob like buoys before turning themselves and the water slimy. Florists avoid that by nesting a smaller vase for water inside a larger clear bowl, then backfilling the outer ring with clean, dry berries. The result is the sparkle of “floating” cranberries without the mess.
For garlands, the insider’s tip is to use waxed dental floss, since the coating helps the needle glide through each berry. A knot, a small bead or a piece of popcorn every dozen berries keeps the strand from breaking as the fruit shrinks.
What’s the trick when you see cranberry garlands still glossy weeks later? They’ve usually been sprayed with shellac or a clear acrylic sealer. That makes them strictly decorative and no longer edible, so best kept out of reach of curious pets or kids indoors and hungry wildlife outdoors.
Handled with care, cranberries shine like holiday jewels long after the bog is out of sight. How berry clever of you!
Place the peeled, diced pears in a medium pot. Add cranberries, sugar and water. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, 6 to 8 minutes or until fruit softens and releases juices.
Stir in cinnamon, nutmeg and orange juice. Cook another 30 seconds, then transfer the mixture to an ovenproof casserole dish, pie dish or square baking pan.
Preheat oven to 350°. In a medium bowl for the topping, cream together sugar, brown sugar and butter with a wooden spoon until smooth. Add oats and mix well.
In a small bowl, whisk together flour, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg and cardamom or allspice, if using. Add to the butter mixture. Use your hands to mix until combined. Then scatter evenly over the fruit filling. Bake at 350° until the topping is crunchy and golden and the juices are bubbling, about 20 to 25 minutes.
Chef Omar’s Cranberry Bread Pudding
Bread pudding dates back to the 11th and 12th centuries, when frugal
cooks in Europe found ways to use stale bread by soaking it in milk, eggs and fat before baking. Over time, this humble “poor man’s pudding” became a beloved comfort dessert, adaptable to local ingredients and holiday flavors.
Serves 6 to 8
1 C. dried cranberries
1 C. diced apple
1 C. diced pears
1 T. butter
10 eggs
8 oz. heavy cream
2 T. sweetened condensed milk
1 tsp. vanilla extract
6 C. bread, cut in 1-inch cubes (Chef Omar uses a mixture of challah and brioche)
Powdered sugar for garnish
Carmel drizzle for garnish
Preheat oven to 350°. In a large saute pan over medium heat, melt butter and cook cranberries, apples and pears until tender.
In mixing bowl, whisk eggs and cream together. Add vanilla and sweetened condensed milk. Set aside.
In a large bowl, place the bread cubes and add the sauteed fruit mixture. Mix together so fruits are dispersed through bread cubes. Then add to a buttered casserole dish. Pour custard on top.
Liz Tarditi is a chef and wine specialist with more than 30 years of experience in food, wine and event planning. She holds degrees from Villanova University and from a Seattle culinary arts program founded by a Certified French Master Chef, where she trained in a classic brigade-style kitchen. Liz later ran her own catering company and has worked as a wine specialist in Pennsylvania. She brings her training and lifelong passion for seasonal, approachable cooking to Brandywine Table. For more great recipes visit CountyLinesMagazine.com
