Fig West Chester Spring 2018

ISSUE No

26

S P R I N G 2 018

Celebrating local shopping, dining, arts, events, and community

West Chester The Women of West Chester Issue

We Are The Women Who Run The Show

Angela Scully Executive Director

Sharon Gabor Marketing Associate

April Evans Administrator

Charlotte Kroft Administrator

the women of uptown! know how to get things done. They make sure that

everything runs smoothly so you can relax and enjoy New York quality performances right here in West Chester. Go to uptownwestchester.org for tickets to the best show in town.

www.uptownwestchester.org 2

Continuing the legacy

On the Cover: One of West Chester’s original female business owners, Holly Brown, set out as a single mom to open Kaly thirty years ago. Her example paved the way for young women like Tara Giorgio of The Brown Bar to follow their dreams as well.

Learn more about them and many more women in the following pages.

fresh face

fresh face

Bringing both high fashion and quality basics: La Chic Boutique.

Providing all the luxury for growing families: Luxey Little Ones.

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PA G E 2 2 IN THIS ISSUE

giving back

authentic

Making a difference in the lives of grieving children: A Haven.

Leading the way for growth and change: Diane LeBold.

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And of course,

great shopping, dining, arts, events, and community— as always.

KEEP READING

women of west chester Showcasing stories of strength and triumph, challenge and sheer determination.

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key stories Visionary women doing it all; sponsored by Key Financial PA G E 6 2

ISSUE 26 / SPRING 2018 / WEST CHESTER, PENNSYLVANIA / THE WOMEN OF WEST CHESTER ISSUE

C R E AT E D A N D P R O D U C E D BY F I G I N D U S T R I E S Creative thinkers and makers with a forever mission of Design For Good.

Learn more about our mission and meet our team at figindustries.com.

PUBLISHER Fig Industries DIRECTOR Gretchen Lusby WRITER Liz Smutko DESIGNERS Ian Berg Josh Seibert Michael Baker Melissa McDade P R I N T I N G PA RT N E R The Standard Group

C O M M U N I C AT I O N S Erin Cusack Kelly McAllister Susan Bowser Anthony Gorick Regina Sukanick PHOTOGRAPHERS Karlo Gesner Matthew Tennison C O M M U N I T Y PA RT N E R S Business Improvement District Uptown! Entertainment Alliance West Chester University Chester Country Art Association

CONTRIBUTORS Catherine Quillman

Malcolm Johnstone

ALL THINGS SOCIAL Look for Fig West Chester on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for daily coverage of local entertainment, events, food, fashion, and community.

A D V E RT I S I N G I N F I G To find out how you can strategically and effectively market your business through the Fig communications package, contact Gretchen Lusby at gretchen@figindustries.com.

Thank you to our editorial sponsor, Key Financial. Committed to empowering women, and lifting up the next generation of female entrepreneurs.

Fig Industries, LLC has made every attempt to ensure that all information contained in this publication has been obtained from reliable sources, but all such information is provided “as is” with no guarantee of completeness or accuracy. The views of contributors do not necessarily reflect the views or policies of Fig Industries, LLC. Fig Industries, LLC cannot be held responsible for errors or omissions contained in, or reliance made upon the contents of, this publication.

Copyright: Copyright 2018 © Fig Industries, LLC. All rights reserved.

Photography or page layout contained in Fig shall not be reproduced, in whole or in part, without the specific written permission of Fig Industries, LLC. Contact 717.394.7737 or studio@figindustries.com.

A S T R O N G WO M A N looks a challenge dead in the eye and gives it a wink - Gina Carey I recently saw The Post, a movie following Katharine Graham, the first female publisher of a major American newspaper, as she exposes a massive government cover-up.

Maybe because I was working on this issue, maybe because I also am in publishing, or maybe simply because I am a woman, her grit and grace moved me. By owning the task before her, Katharine called countless women around the country to boldly follow their purpose as well.

This magazine’s theme was clear from the first moment the Fig team began brainstorming.

There was a story unfolding in West Chester that was begging to be told. We have long had the gift of great business women, pioneers who paved the way for us all. However, over the past decade, women have continued to open storefronts, contributing to the revitalization of the borough. And then— over the past two years—a wave of young women following their dreams has pumped new energy and inspiration into our cobbled streets.

So it’s time, as women all over the country— and world—find their voice, to highlight the Women of West Chester and their strength, bravery and creativity.

Telling the stories found within these pages is an absolute privilege. Fig is so much more than a pretty publication. We are a community building tool that creatively communicates all that is great about our town. As a womanowned business ourselves, it’s our desire that this issue honors all those who chose West Chester in which to shine bright.

This one’s for the girls, G R E T C H E N LU S BY AND THE FIG INDUSTRIES TEAM

A NOTE FROM FIG

Onward, Brave Women

Celebrating Confidence Inside & Out 6

WEST CHESTER 150 EAST GAY STREET 610.314.4300 | EX TON 826 NORTH POT TSTOWN PIKE 484.872.8457 BAL ANCEHAIRSPA .COM

this beautiful ballet tells the story of Princess Aurora,

who was born to the King and Queen of a magical fairytale kingdom. A wicked fairy curses Aurora at her christening, and promises that she will prick her finger on a spindle and die.

The Lilac Fairy comes to the aid of the royal family, and uses her magic to alter the wicked Carabosse’s spell. Aurora is now destined fall into a deep sleep only to be awoken by true love’s kiss. A century later, with the help of The Lilac Fairy, a Prince seeks to wake Aurora from this sleep and lift the spell. A magical story awaits audiences who embark on this adventure.

EMILIE K . ASPLUNDH CONCERT HALL West Chester University M AY 1 8 10 am M AY 19 11am & 4pm M AY 2 0 2pm

TICKETS: BR ANDY WINEBALLET.ORG | BOX OFFICE: 610.696.2711

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Bold Styles

for EVERY WOMAN AND E VERY MAN, TOO

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WEST CHESTER: 127 NORTH HIGH STREET 610.738.7150 | DOYLESTOWN: 10 SOUTH MAIN STREET 215.340.1725 ARTISTICEYEWEAR.COM

MEET THE ARTISTS

CHESTER COUNTY STUDIO TOUR

Chester County Studio Tour invites art enthusiasts, and the curious to experience and meet a variety of astonishing artists as they exhibit their works during this two-day event. This unique and intimate opportunity is FREE to the public, and presents a clearer understanding of their stories and creative process.

COUNTYSTUDIOTOUR.COM

SATURDAY, MAY 19

10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

SUNDAY, MAY 20

11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

®

FLEXIBLE TUITION AVAIL ABLE

Growing the Light in Every Child E D U C ATIN G BOY S & GIR LS I N P RE S C H O OL TH RO UGH 5 T H GRA DE Innovative & enriched curriculum in the context of Quaker values, including STEAM studies | Smart Table & Makers Space | Early Childhood Outdoor Classroom | Interdisciplinary Literature & History | Music, Studio Art & Art History | Mindfulness Training | Raised Bed Gardens & Resident Hens | Learning Partnerships with West Chester University, Kennett Symphony, Chester County Historical Society & Echo Hill Environmental School | Intergenerational Program with Hickman Home

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415 NORTH HIGH STREET

610.696.2937

WCFRIENDS.ORG

ADMISSIONS@WCFRIENDS.ORG

CALL FOR A TOUR! or join us for: parent camp saturday, april 7 9 am - 12 pm and evening of the arts thursday, may 10 5:30 pm

SPONSORED BY

Saturday, June 2, 2018

Join us for the 16th Annual event to support the ROOFTOP SPONSOR

Beautification of Downtown West Chester Chestnut Street Garage | 7-11 pm | $105 per person; $125 at the door Live Music, Buffet, Beer and Wine, and Rooftop Martini

484-678-6100 PINNACLE SPONSOR

Musical Entertainment by The Donny Syracuse Band Dinner compliments of Limoncello Appetizers & Desserts compliments of “A Taste of West Chester” featuring John Serock Catering and various downtown restaurants and bakeries

PANORAMA SPONSORS Blue Dog Printing & Design Brandywine Valley Heating & Air Conditioning

For more information:

www.WCDF.org.

For questions or tickets contact the Chester County Community Foundation at 610-696-0501.

Weekend Wear F O R T H E E V E R Y D AY M A N

apparel / outerwear / accessories / grooming products / personal service

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29 SOUTH HIGH STREET 484.266.734 4 PHINEAS - GAGE.COM MONDAY-SATURDAY 10am- 6pm, SUNDAY 12-5pm

Social Mission: Unite For HER

At Fig, we believe in the power of a community that works together to identify needs and find solutions— one that creates connections and is passionate about helping its neighbors.

We believe in the mission of Unite For HER—our 2018 Social Mission Partner. Please consider supporting and surrounding them this year.

Since its establishment as a nonprofit organization in 2009, Unite for HER’s mission has been to bridge that gap for breast cancer patients, focusing on wellness initiatives that will positively impact their health, as well as the health of all women and girls. Based in West Chester, PA, Unite For HER meets the need by funding and delivering complementary therapies that support the physical and emotional needs of those with breast cancer during treatment and beyond.

W H E N U N I T E F O R H E R founder Sue Weldon was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2004, she began searching for information on therapies that would complement the medical treatments she was receiving. What she discovered was a lack of easily accessible resources for breast cancer patients to enhance their wellness and care for their emotional, spiritual, and physical needs.

Unite for HER partners with over 30 local hospitals and cancer center affiliates to serve approximately 1,200 breast cancer patients each year through its Wellness Program as well as through complementary therapies like acupuncture, oncology massage, nutrition counseling, yoga, meditation, sexual counseling, Reiki, and psychological counseling.

BY HER SIDE THROUGH BREAST CANCER, EM POWERING HER FOR LIFE Join Unite For HER to help raise funds this season!

Bloom Spring Fashion Show: April 22, 2018, at Merion Golf Club The Spring Fashion Show is a celebration of life and joy with over 300 attendees and a fashion show featuring current and former Unite for HER participants and breast cancer survivors.

To learn more about UFH’s programming, events, or how to become involved, visit uniteforher.org.

127 EAST CHESTNUT STREET, FIRST FLOOR

UNITEFORHER.ORG

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F ROM T HE B ARRYM O RE NO MIN ATE D PRODUCE R S OF S PAMALOT

The Resident Theatre Company Presents

NEW YO R K T HEATRE IN W E ST CH E STE R

B U L L E T S OV E R B R OA D WAY Loaded with big laughs, unforgettable characters, and the songs that made the ‘20s roar, Bullets over Broadway The Musical is bringing musical comedy back with a bang. Based on the Oscar-winning movie, this six-time Tony-nominated musical features popular World War I standards, big tap numbers, and an all-star cast of award winning actors and Broadway veterans.

M A R C H 3 0 t h - A P R I L 15 t h , 2 0 18

@ The Uptown! Knauer Performing Arts Center, West Chester

VI SI T RTC WC.ORG FOR DE TAILS 14

INFO@RTCWC.ORG

RTCWC.ORG

WOMEN OF WEST CHESTER here’s to strong women. may we know them, may we be them, may we raise them.

The 28 women featured here do it all—and though they come from different walks of life, many of the lessons they share are the same.

A woman’s journey is rarely straight. But the ability to choose both family and ambition is her strength. And the decision to create camaraderie among peers is her gift.

In the following pages, find your inspiration in West Chester’s hard-working, risk-taking, dream-chasing, community-creating fierce females.

“IF YOU’RE NOT QUESTIONING YOURSELF, YOU’RE NOT DREAMING BIG ENOUGH.”

TITLE Owner YEARS IN BUSINESS Less than 2 years A WO M A N W H O H A S I N F LU E N C E D YO U Keyana Cellucci

TARA GIORGIO When Tara Giorgio set out to open her own business, The Brow Bar, she faced skepticism—and a fire three weeks before she opened. “People don’t always take you seriously when you’re a young female,” the 24-year-old says.

But Tara’s drive and resolve was—and is—bolstered by her community of clients and other women in business in West Chester. “We’re all in this together,”

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the brow bar 131 WEST GAY STREET 717.327.8425 BROWSBY TAR AGIORGIO.COM

she says. “We want nothing more than success for each other. The friendships and support are amazing.”

As it turns out, West Chester has an endless market for eyebrow shaping, and Tara’s calendar is booked out weeks in advance. “I get great satisfaction from it,” says Tara. “Creating structural symmetry by taking personalized measurements to guarantee your brow has the perfect

start, arch, and end for your facial features...that’s my mission.”

Tara’s gratitude for her clients— “The Brow Gang”— and fellow female entrepreneurs is evident. And her clients’ satisfaction is pretty apparent too. “When you hand someone a mirror and they cry tears of joy... that feeling changes your life,” Tara shares.

A loyal customer of Alysha Martinelli’s first La Chic Boutique location in Chester Springs kept insisting she should open in West Chester too.

“I wanted to come to West Chester from the start,” she says. “But it was important to me to be on a main street.”

When that customer told her about a new space on W. Gay Street, Alysha looked at it ASAP. Downtown West Chester was thriving—people were strolling around and the restaurants were popping. It looked perfect. Still, she asked her parents—who raised her while running card and gift shops themselves—for guidance.

“My dad told me I’d be an idiot not to,” says Alysha. She signed the lease and started renovating, and opened her second location in November 2017.

“BE COMFORTABLE AND CONFIDENT.”

Alysha’s energy and warmth make her a trusted fashion advisor. “I love getting to know my clients, telling them honestly what works and what doesn’t,” she says. Her advice is “be comfortable and confident, buy clothes that work for you.” Alysha’s New York style boutique offers the newest trends each season while keeping quality staples on hand too.

She’s never off the clock. “Clients call while I’m playing tennis, asking what to wear for a special occasion. I’ll pause the game to take it,” Alysha says.

But she always makes time for her daughter too. “Working in retail and hiring great people lets me have the time I need with her,” she says. “I grew up in retail, and I love it all.”

14 WEST GAY STREET 610.363.0900 L ACHICBTQ.COM

Fresh Face:

ALYSHA MARTINELLI la chic boutique

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JAMIE JONES & PATTY JEFFERIS whirlaway travel 26 WEST MARKET STREET 610.431.3642 WHIRL AWAY TR AVEL.COM

Patty Jefferis ignored the doubters and bought WhirlAway Travel in 1985—and was so successful that she was debt-free in a short time. Her daughter, Jamie Jones, grew up in the business, formally joining as COO eight years ago.

It’s no secret the internet changed the business, allowing travelers to book their own adventures. So Patty and Jamie adapted and thrived, while other agencies closed their doors. “People ask how we’re still in business,” says Patty. “Time and time again, we’ve had to adjust the way we operate; we never stay stagnant.”

Now, Whirlaway specializes in creating travel experiences as unique as those traveling, with an emphasis on opening minds and hearts to the diversity of the world. “Traveling helps create a global community by getting out in the world and experiencing everything it has to offer,” says Jamie.

No matter where they roam, though, West Chester is home, and family is the priority.

“Family comes first,” says Patty. “Whether it’s a sick kid or the typical mom-duties, we support each other and understand that we all work to live, not live to work.”

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“WORK TO LIVE, NOT LIVE TO WORK” TITLES COO & President YEARS IN BUSINESS Eight & Thirty-Three WO M E N W H O H AV E I N F LU E N C E D YO U Jamie: My mom Patty: My best friend Sandy

The combination of her experiences as a musician, full-time middle school music teacher, and a mom led Aubree Windish to found Tot Rock in 2016, a new music program for infants and toddlers based on a number of early childhood music learning theories.

“IT’S NEVER TOO LATE TO START SOMETHING NEW …THERE ARE NO TIME LIMITS.”

The kids learn and the parents get to connect, which Aubree personally came to learn is just as important. Tot Rock was inspired by Aubree’s experiences after having her first child—she now has two.

While at the YMCA she met, and quickly befriended, three women with kids of the same age. After telling her about a music class they had taken, Aubree’s new friends encouraged her to build what would become Tot Rock.

“I was motivated to create something that combines music education and connecting parents and caregivers with each other, all in a fun and relaxed setting”, says Aubree.

“It’s never too late to start something new—your own business, a new career path, education—there are no time limits or starting and ending points,” says Aubree. “While I thrive on structure and routine, having kids has tested those boundaries for me. In turn, my kids helped me to realize I have a new and different potential and I really have them to thank for the inspiration of this new endeavor.”

TITLE Music Educator, Owner YEARS IN BUSINESS Two WO M E N W H O H AV E I N F LU E N C E D YO U The women in my family. I come from a line of strong women on both sides of my family.

AUBREE WINDISH tot rock 24 SOUTH NEW STREET 484.319.9198 TOTROCKCL ASS.COM

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TITLES Co-owners YEARS IN BUSINESS Five

TONDA DIPASQUALE tish boutique 138 EAST GAY STREET 610.692.7500 TISHST YLE.COM

Tish Boutique started the way many great ideas hatch—at a party, over champagne.

Partygoers admired Ashley’s outfit, and the conversation turned to her dreams of opening a boutique. Tonda was there and interested in a new venture. Soon, the plans came together for a hometown boutique in West Chester.

“The idea of being your very own girl boss is really empowering,” says Tonda.

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ASHLEY TISCHLER DARLINGTON “ALWAYS STRIVE FOR SOMETHING THAT’S GOING TO CHALLENGE YOU”

Ashley adds, “It was one of the most important motivators.”

They agree that owning and running Tish has taught them how much women can accomplish when they work together.

“Women are supportive, hardworking, and dedicated,” says Tonda. “The joy is that women can celebrate together, cry together, and anguish together.”

“Be curious,” Ashley advises. “Don’t be afraid to try new things, and always strive for something that’s going to challenge you.”

They have advice for budding female entrepreneurs—jump in, take risks, and stay focused. What you don’t know, ask.

Work hard, and enjoy the ride. “There are some really amazing women in West Chester,” they agree.

SANDRA RIPER sunset hill jewelers & fine arts gallery 23 NORTH HIGH STREET 610.692.0374 SUNSETHILL JEWELERS.COM

“One of the great things about West Chester is that there have always been a lot of women-owned businesses,” says Sandra Riper, owner of Sunset Hill Jewelers & Fine Arts Gallery. “Not to mention women attorneys and judges.”

Sandra spent her childhood in West Chester, with parents embedded in the jewelry industry, always dreaming of one day owning her own hometown jewelry store. And when she had the opportunity to take over her parents’ store, she took it. “That was a risk,” says Sandra, “but I have no regrets.”

She’s now part of the fabric of the borough, like her store’s iconic red bow during the holidays. “I hope I’ve played a role in making people’s celebrations happy events,” Sandra says. “People’s trust in me, and in my business, is the greatest compliment.”

Sandra, like many others, has that familiar challenge of balancing marriage, motherhood, and work. “We are all responsible for helping improve our community and supporting each other and other local businesses,” Sandra says.

“But it’s so hard to be everything. Try to find balance—sometimes your family just comes first and you don’t have to make an excuse for that.”

TITLE Owner & Graduate Gemologist YEARS IN BUSINESS Thirty-five A WO M A N W H O H A S I N F LU E N C E D YO U My first boss, owner of Merle Norman Cosmetics.

“WE ARE ALL RESPONSIBLE FOR HELPING IMPROVE OUR COMMUNITY.” 21

“THERE ARE A LOT OF NEW FAMILIES THAT NEED THE EXPERIENCE AND HELP WE CAN GIVE THEM.”

Jennifer Poe couldn’t find anything other than big-box baby stores when she was expecting her fourth child. “Between the time I had my first, who’s 13, and this one, all the specialty boutiques disappeared,” she says. So she got to work.

“I was having a baby and a store baby at the same time,” she says. Jennifer opened Luxey Little Ones, a full-service luxury baby and child boutique in Newtown, PA, last year. In May, another branch can be found on Gay Street in West Chester.

Luxey Little Ones offers everything— furniture, clothing, and accessories.

Jennifer also runs an interior design company, Rittenhouse Home. Because of her background, Luxey Little Ones will offer design services, as well, for nurseries and children’s rooms.

Fresh Face:

JENNIFER POE luxey little ones

Along with all the products and services, Luxey Little Ones offers the unique viewpoint and experience of a mother of four. “When you go into the big-box store, someone who’s helping you may not be a mom,” Jennifer says. “We can help choose a stroller, for example, tell you what you need and what you don’t. It’s not just the stroller, it’s our experience.” Luxey offers a registry service to expectant mommies, assuring they receive the must-haves in baby gear and the red carpet experience.

Jennifer’s looking forward to putting down roots in the borough. “There are a lot of new families that need the experience and help we can give them,” she says. The services are geared to the needs of busy moms. “Call us, shop online, whatever you need and we’ll ship it or deliver it,” Jennifer says. “There’s such a sense of community here.”

135 EAST GAY STREET 215.664.8858 LUXEYLIT TLEONES.COM

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Lisa Vadasz founded Otto’s BMW with her father in 1968 in a converted two-bay garage in Eddystone, PA. She was 20.

“I was so young, I didn’t think about risks,” explains Lisa Vadasz. “I was constantly worried about having enough money. There were many sleepless nights.”

When Lisa Vadasz gave birth to her first child, she asked her husband Michael for a favor. “I need someone I can trust to run the business while I’m at home for a few months,” she told him. That few months turned into 48 years. Michael became a pivotal player in turning Otto’s into the successful franchise it is today.

Now, the third generation is making their mark on the company.

Lisa Vadasz’ daughter, Lisa Thompson, joined Otto’s BMW part-time in 2008 after taking time off from her career in law to stay at home with her kids. She is now in her second year as general manager.

“We knew that our parents expected us to work hard,” says Lisa Thompson. “It was clear that nothing would simply be passed on to us. We had to earn it.”

“My legacy is my children,” Lisa Vadasz says. “They understand that to achieve anything, you have to sacrifice. There’s no substitute for hard work.”

“TO ACHIEVE ANYTHING, YOU HAVE TO SACRIFICE.” TITLES Owner & General Manager

LISA VADASZ & LISA THOMPSON otto’s bmw 1275 WILMINGTON PIKE (202 NORTH) 610.399.6800 OT TOSBMW.COM

YEARS IN BUSINESS Fifty

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“TAKE RISKS, BELIEVE IN YOURSELF, AND TRUST IN OTHERS”

TITLE Owner YEARS IN BUSINESS Thirty A WO M A N W H O H A S I N F LU E N C E D YO U My mom, Holly Brown

“My motivation for my business is to help women to feel great in their everyday lives. Too often, women are their harshest critics,” says Polly Zobel, the owner of KALY. “My goal is to have someone walk out of my store happier than when they come in.”

Polly took over the store from her mom, Holly Brown, leaving behind a career in pharmaceutical research. “It required me to make some major financial and

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POLLY ZOBEL kaly 37 WEST GAY STREET 610.436.8272 K ALYCLOTHING.COM

mindset changes,” she says. But it also gave her more flexibility.

“I can be there for the kids, as well as my business,” Polly says. “I have a husband who tries as hard as I do to juggle work and kids.” To be a business owner, “You need to be able to focus 100% on your business when you are working and then switch and focus 100% on your family when you are home.”

Polly says there’s an incredible community of women willing to help. Her biggest advice is to “Stop denying your power and your abilities. Don’t play small just to fit in. Don’t be afraid to fail. Take risks, believe in yourself, and trust in others.”

“Being a business owner is incredibly fulfilling. I feel creative, purposeful, energetic, and focused everyday,” she says. “I have never once regretted my decision.”

DR. JENNIFER JESTER jester family chiropractic

“WOMEN HAVE A UNIQUE ADVANTAGE IN CULTIVATING AND NURTURING RELATIONSHIPS WITH CUSTOMERS AND THE COMMUNITY.”

TITLE Doctor of Chiropractic and Co-owner YEARS IN BUSINESS Fourteen A WO M A N W H O H A S I N F LU E N C E D YO U Jeanie Matteson, my trusted Reiki practitioner for over 13 years

620 WEST STR ASBURG ROAD 610.696.6676 JESTERCHIROPR ACTIC.COM

Sometimes you just have to follow your passion. After studying and working in finance, Jennifer Jester found it wasn’t her calling.

“I decided to pursue chiropractic after I had my own amazing experience recovering from an injury sustained while training for the Boston Marathon,” Jennifer says. “I couldn’t ignore the incredible need I saw in our community.”

Jester Family Chiropractic began in 2004 when Jennifer and her husband Deron opened with a vision to bring an elevated form of patient care. “I have since introduced Functional Medicine into our practice. I wanted to offer patients suffering with chronic conditions true healing solutions.”

Jennifer applies that holistic view in business, as well. “Sometimes women in business are underestimated,” she says, “but we actually have a unique advantage. We are generally intuitive and approachable, and excel at cultivating and nurturing relationships with our customers and the community.”

“West Chester is such a progressive town, with so many women in important leadership positions, and they have so much community support and respect,” Jennifer says. “I’m very proud of that.”

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STEPHANIE GRAY kildare’s irish pub 18 W GAY STREET 610.431.0770 KILDARESPUBWC.COM

TITLE Chef & Owner YEARS IN BUSINESS Restaurant business, Twenty-three Owner of Kildare’s, Two and a half A WO M A N W H O H A S I N F LU E N C E D YO U Julia Child

“YOU HAVE TO WORK HARD AND MAKE SACRIFICES IF YOU WANT TO STAND OUT.” As a kid, Stephanie Gray would “cook” with Julia Child, emulating every move she made on TV. “I was just fascinated watching Julia cook,” she says. “I wanted to have that confidence, that ease.”

Stephanie’s love for cooking never ebbed. She left college, got a job as a cook, and learned everything she could.

She was accepted into the Culinary Institute of America and graduated at

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the top of her class. That led to working for Georges Perrier, and then some of Philadelphia’s top restaurants.

As the new chef/owner at Kildare’s Irish Pub in West Chester, Stephanie’s on a mission to create great food and inspire other women to become confident leaders. “You have to work hard and make sacrifices if you want to stand out,” she says. “But you can do it.”

Purchasing Kildare’s in 2015 with her husband Dane, and reinventing the downtown West Chester Irish Pub staple has allowed them to raise their children with a strong work ethic. “Our kids see our hard work, but know we never miss a beat with them,” she says. “I hope it’s something that stays with them throughout their lives.”

ANGELA CARLINO MILANI & LAURA CARLINO carlino’s

TITLES Chief Operating Officer & Vice President YEARS IN BUSINESS Thirty-Six WO M E N W H O H AV E I N F LU E N C E D YO U Our mother and grandmother, “Mama” Angela Carlino

“Mama” Carlino

128 WEST MARKET STREET 610.649.4046 CARLINOSMARKET.COM

Credit goes to “Mama” Carlino. When the original Carlino’s Italian market opened in Ardmore in the 1980s, customers couldn’t get enough of Mama’s pasta, meatballs, and pastries. “She cooked from the heart and treated customers like family,” says her granddaughter, Angela. “We live by that model every day.”

The third generation of the family carries on Mama Carlino’s tradition with the opening of a second store in West Chester, though their first months were bittersweet—Mama Carlino died a few weeks after opening day. “That could have broken us,” says Laura Carlino, Angela’s mom and Mama Carlino’s daughterin-law. “But thanks to the bond my husband and I have with our children, and our core staff, we persevered and came out stronger than ever.”

Angela says her grandmother and mother are sources of strength, and her role models.

“Being a woman in business is all about a healthy balance,” she says. “I’m proud to be able to run a company, be a wife and mom at the same time. It’s an important lesson to teach my kids.”

“BEING A WOMAN IN BUSINESS IS ALL ABOUT A HEALTHY BALANCE.” 27

TITLE Co-owner

“WE DON’T TAKE THE EASY WAY OUT.”

YEARS IN BUSINESS Three

Photo: Sabina Sister

JULIANNE TETTAMANTI

gemelli artisanal gelato & dessert cafe 12 WEST MARKET STREET 484.557.8482 GEMELLIGEL ATO.COM

Julianne Tettamanti & her husband Vincenzo opened Gemelli Gelato in 2014 to bring completely handcrafted gelato & desserts to West Chester. Now, Julianne is branching out and taking Gemelli on the road in her new-to-her vintage gelato truck—it’s a converted 1948 International Harvester Metro.

desserts,” Julianne says. “We don’t take the easy way out, so we had to do the ‘food truck’ thing a little differently too.”

Julianne was determined to find a vintage truck, and when she did, her energy moved to overseeing the restoration— managing the project while it was renovated in Arizona.

“We believe in doing things differently, and it starts with the high quality of our

They restored every original bolt and screw when renovating the truck. “It’s all

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vintage,” she says. And now, Julianne will be the main driver.

“We offer our customers something they can’t find anywhere else—it’s in the way Vincenzo creates his artisanal gelato & desserts, the design of our store—and now in our vintage gelato truck,” she says.

Look for Julianne and her Gemelli truck heading to private and corporate events, weddings and birthday parties.

When she started in real estate in 1984, Jean Gross was looking for job with flexibility. After all, she and her husband were settling into a new home with their young son, horses, dogs, a pony, a cat, trout ponds, and a flock of ducks.

Jean was also a fox hunter, skilled carpenter, and painter.

“I loved it from day one! You’d get in the car with buyers and drive around for hours,” Jean recalls. “I got teased that I did so well because clients would buy anything so they wouldn’t have to get back in the car with me!”

Over her 33-year career, she invested in the first Keller Williams Realty office in Chester County, formed her own corporation, and helped pioneer a team concept. “You did not hear of teams back then,” explains Jean. “I hired an assistant and partnered with another agent. These actions doubled my business, then doubled it again. I started to see the power of leverage!”

“I love the relationships, figuring out the will to make it happen, enjoying and revelling when it comes together,” she says. “My clients have become lifelong friends.”

TITLE Owner and Founder YEARS IN BUSINESS Thirty-Three A WO M A N W H O H A S I N F LU E N C E D YO U Mo Anderson of Keller Williams International.

She was a powerhouse in a time when every industry was dominated by men!

JEAN GROSS

JEAN GROSS keller williams jean gross

“I LOVE THE RELATIONSHIPS… MY CLIENTS HAVE BECOME LIFELONG FRIENDS. 29

JENNIFER MATLACK

“BE BOLD, TAKE A RISK, BE COMMITTED, SEEK ADVICE.”

matlack florist 210 NORTH CHESTER ROAD (ROUTE 352) 610.431.3077 MATL ACKFLORIST.COM

Armed with an English degree, Jennifer Matlack struggled to find the right job out of college. She tried real estate, but was unfulfilled. Driving past the closed-down potting shed of a retired flower grower, she stopped and asked to rent the place.

“I worked as a florist part-time through college,” Jennifer says. “And I was desperate because I needed a job!” She got a small business loan, and opened on a shoestring budget.

After four years of renting, she and her husband bought the property where Matlack Florist sits now. She’s grown the business with the same skill she grew her flowers, turning a one-woman shop into a multi-million-dollar enterprise.

Today, Jennifer thinks more help is needed for budding female entrepreneurs. “I’d like to see women given opportunities for small business loans or help from local investors,” she says. “A mentorship program could also be helpful.”

And to the women who are just starting out or doubting their dream, Jennifer says you CAN make it. “Be bold, take a risk, be committed, seek advice. But most of all, work hard!”

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TITLE President YEARS IN BUSINESS Forty WO M E N W H O H AV E I N F LU E N C E D YO U My mother and grandmother both were strong stay-at-home moms. Well-educated, opinionated and VERY supportive!

Michelle Noble, Executive Director and Liz Dreibelbis, Clinical Director founded A Haven after being introduced by a mutual friend in 2015, who knew they both worked with grieving children.

their life grieve, so A Haven uses a holistic approach, involving the entire family. “We found there wasn’t a resource like this anywhere in Chester County,” says Liz.

“When we met, it was just like we both ‘got it,’” says Michelle. That meeting led to friendship, and eventually to becoming non-profit entrepreneurs. Their venture is A Haven, a resource center to help children grieve a death through a familycentered approach.

“We create a supportive space, where children and families can learn how to cope with what they’re feeling,” says Michelle. “Depending on their age, the needs of children and teens differ.

Younger children may lack the ability to identify and express feelings and teens tend to look to peers for support.”

The number one determining factor for how a child grieves is how the adults in

In addition to working with families dealing with loss, A Haven also offers

support for those who work with children, training more than 150 teachers, social workers, nurses, clergy and others on how to talk to children about death and dying.

It’s emotionally tough work, and can take its toll. “We work with our families on making time for self-care,” says Liz. “But sometimes we need to be better at taking our own advice.” Michelle and Liz are both full of warmth and laughter, and look to each other, their faith, and calming rituals to keep pressing ahead.

Check out ahaven.org to learn more and for ways you can help.

Giving Back:

LIZ DREIBELBIS & MICHELLE NOBLE

“WE CREATE A SUPPORTIVE SPACE”

a haven AHAVEN.ORG

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DONNA L. MUZIO brandywine ballet 317 WEST TOWN ROAD, #5 610.692.6402 BR ANDY WINEBALLET.ORG

TITLE Artistic Director and Founder YEARS IN BUSINESS Dance Center, forty-four Brandywine Ballet, thirty-nine

Like the dancer she is, Donna L. Muzio makes running the Dance Center and the Brandywine Ballet look effortless.

But like the art itself, you don’t see the hard work behind the scenes.

In 1974, when asked to step in at a small dance school after the previous director moved away, Donna took on the challenge. She started with 35 students, growing to 75 by the end of the year. That’s when she opened the Dance Center. “I was studying to be a teacher, but this moved up my plans to open my own school.”

Five years later, she founded Brandywine Ballet. “We needed to give serious students an outlet to perform and the opportunity to work with professional choreographers and master teachers without moving to New York,” Donna explains.

Donna’s dedication to her art and community benefits her dancers. Many have gone on to dance professionally or earn college scholarships. She’s proud of the community she’s created.

“Most of my students found their best friends here and still keep in touch.”

“I’M TEACHING MY SECOND GENERATION OF STUDENTS—I LOVE THAT THE TRADITION IS CONTINUING.” Donna L. Muzio, Artistic Director & Founder

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“KNOW THAT YOU ARE MORE TALENTED THAN YOU THINK.”

TITLE Executive Vice President and Provost YEARS IN BUSINESS Twenty-Two A WO M A N W H O H A S I N F LU E N C E D YO U Dr. Madeleine Wing Adler, the first (and only so far) woman president of West Chester University.

DR. LAURIE BERNOTSKY As an undergrad, Dr. R. Lorraine (Laurie) Bernotsky was a driven straight-A student. “As a first-generation college student, I believed there were only two acceptable majors—pre-law and premed,” she says. “I started in pre-med, but when I got a C+ in organic chemistry, I set my sights on law school.”

In her senior year, she realized that was a goal, not a calling. An advisor encouraged

west chester university 700 SOUTH HIGH STREET 610.436.1000 WCUPA .EDU

Laurie to think about teaching at the college level instead.

She earned a graduate-school spot at Oxford University, but it was a challenging experience. “I’d spent very little time outside of Pennsylvania, and I was not prepared for Oxford’s tutorial educational style,” Laurie says. She persevered, and after completing her doctorate, was offered a faculty position at West Chester University.

Now as the Executive Vice President and Provost, she encourages students to realize their true potential. “Especially for first-generation, working-class women, know that you are more talented than you think,” she says.

“Remember that your career is a journey, rather than each job being a destination in and of itself. Stick with doing the work that motivates you to be your best and that serves others.”

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The family business is jewelry—even the original storefront, started by her mother-in-law Ethel in 1977—carries on. Lisa Kaplan and her husband Ivan bought the West Chester jewelry institution in 1984. “It was the greatest risk I’ve taken, buying the business and assuming the debt,” says Lisa. “We had a good deal of jewelry knowledge, but not a lot of business experience.”

Family is an important component of her business. “We create amazing memories for our clients, and these memories and jewelry get passed down to future generations,” Lisa says. Mixing family with business isn’t easy though, it takes focus.

“It’s always challenging balancing how much time to give to work, to a strong marriage, to our son Evan,” Lisa says. “Making time for our parents, especially when our busiest seasons are usually around family holidays, takes some juggling.”

Still, Lisa wouldn’t have it any other way. When asked what advice she’d giver her younger self, she’s firm. “I would tell her to do everything the way I’ve done it,” she says. “I’ve had an incredibly fulfilling life!”

“IT’S ALWAYS CHALLENGING BALANCING HOW MUCH TIME TO GIVE TO WORK, TO A STRONG MARRIAGE, TO OUR SON.” 34

TITLE Owner YEARS IN BUSINESS Forty

LISA K. KAPLAN kaplans fine jewelry 111 MARKET STREET 610.431.4640 K APL ANSFINEJEWELRY.COM

CHES

T

W

ER

E

ST

ANGELA PAYSON west chester design build

“IT CAN BE SCARY TO TAKE A LEAP FORWARD, BUT I THINK WALT DISNEY SAID IT BEST— ‘IF YOU CAN DREAM IT, YOU CAN DO IT’.”

610.594.2394 WESTCHESTERDB.COM FACEBOOK: WCBUILDERS INSTAGR AM: @WESTCHESTERDESIGNBUILD

TITLE Co-Owner YEARS IN BUSINESS Eleven A WO M A N W H O H A S I N F LU E N C E D YO U Joanna Gaines

When Angela Payson co-founded West Chester Design/Build in 2007 with her husband Chris, she had no idea the challenges that awaited them in the coming years. “I was excited as anything about what the future may hold for our brand new business, and then it all started falling apart,” says Angela. “We literally started months prior to the infamous housing crisis of 2008.”

Needless to say, the next few years

required faith, grit, and lots of determination. She knew they had something special here, and if they stuck it out, they would not regret it.

Fast forward ten years, and their architectural design and home remodeling company has earned numerous awards, and is rated the top company in the area, thanks to their unique and convenient process.

Now as she helps prepare her team for the company’s next milestone—finalizing the design of their newly purchased building, (pictured above) with renovations planned to begin this spring—she once again finds herself experiencing that familiar nervous excitement in the face of such a large undertaking. “It can be scary to take a leap forward, but I think Walt Disney said it best—‘if you can dream it, you can do it’.”

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“WE EMPOWER EACH OTHER TO COMBAT PRESSURE, BIAS, OR NEGATIVE VIEWS OUR SOCIETY PLACES ON WOMEN.”

NATALIE NEUMANN westtown school junior

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YEAR IN SCHOOL Eleventh H O M E T OW N West Chester, PA A WO M A N AT W E S T T OW N W H O H A S I N F LU E N C E D YO U My chemistry teacher, Rose Koenig. She introduced me to the sciences and sparked a deep interest I did not know I had.

“Being a 5-ft. 5-in. goalkeeper and defending a 8-ft. tall net is not the perfect combination,” says Natalie Neumann, with a wry grin. Yet, she was determined to prove it could be done.

“I’ve been told I’m too short for the position and couldn’t play in college,” she says,” I knew I could prove that wrong.” Natalie earned a spot on a local travel team, then trained under Jill Loyden, a former member of the U.S. women’s national team.

Coupling the tactical training from her coach with hours of practice with her dad, Natalie became the starting goalkeeper for her team.

“I developed the confidence and skills to lead my team,” she says, “and secured an offer to play in college.”

Natalie’s experiences at Westtown also fuel her drive. “A group of girls meets regularly to ensure we have a strong female voice in our community,” she says. “We empower each other. It’s a great way to combat pressures, bias, or negative views our society places on women.” Natalie advises others to remember, “Do not let anyone tell you that you are not good enough or talented enough. You can provide value and truth in whatever position you hold, whether in the classroom or on the field.”

“BE PASSIONATE ABOUT SOMETHING AND BE WILLING TO DEVOTE YOURSELF TO IT.”

YEAR IN SCHOOL Twelfth H O M E T OW N Beijing, China A WO M A N AT W E S T T OW N W H O H A S I N F LU E N C E D YO U My advisor, Karen Gallagher.

She has been a great influence on me. With her guidance, I have gained confidence in my own abilities and I have matured to appreciate the success hard work can bring.

W E S T O W N S C H O O L An Independent, Quaker, Co-Ed, Pre-K-12 Day School with Boarding Options in Grades 9 -12. west chester, pa

QIAOCHU CHEN westtown school senior

Qiaochu is a senior at Westtown. Like many high schoolers, she has personal interests in addition to her school assignments. Quiachu has used her Advanced Independent Seminar at Westtown as an opportunity to combine the two and deeply explore a topic of interest: global business issues. “I’m working on an independent project, serving as a liaison between Chester County and the Yanqing District in China,” she explains. Yanqing is her hometown and host of the 2022 Winter Olympics.

“My mission is to build a more globalized business community, while growing as a female leader,” Qiaochu says. It’s a

demanding project. “I’m working with people who are living on different continents and speaking different languages,” Qiaochu says. “I have to keep them engaged and on-task—it’s a balancing act which requires courtesy, diplomacy, and organization.”

As a result of her Independent Seminar, she learned to multitask better. “I had to manage all of it while balancing school, college applications, and life in general,” Qiaochu says. She has valuable advice for other students—and it applies to outside school too. “Be passionate about something and be willing to devote yourself to it.”

37

Though she’s served six years on the West Chester Borough Council, and is currently the Council president, Diane LeBold says with a laugh, “I got into politics by accident. I was just looking for friends and ended up running for council.”

Before settling in West Chester in the late 1980s, Diane’s life and career took her around the country. Her warm and comfortable home is filled with art made by friends she made along the way, and a collection of guitars. “I haven’t been playing as much, so I’ve lost the calluses on my fingers,” she says.

Diane’s had a deliberate impact on quality of life in the borough—from the restriction on student rentals and creation of the Business Improvement District in her first term to championing the renovation of the borough hall and initiatives in sustainable and healthy growth in her second term (and first as president).

Diane knows the value of government. “West Chester is a small town, but we live cheekby-jowl—I believe we have the greatest population density in the state,” she says.

She sees a great future for women in elected office at every level. “We’ve always had strong women in West Chester’s government,” Diane says. “But we saw more women elected to county and state office in 2017, with more saying they’re going to run. That’s great because women tend to put aside their own interests in favor of the greater good, and that’s what we need. It’s something important I’ve learned in my time in government.”

Authentic:

DIANE LEBOLD west chester borough council 38

LEARN MORE ABOUT FIG AUTHENTIC AT FIGWESTCHESTER.COM

“WOMEN TEND TO PUT ASIDE THEIR OWN INTERESTS IN FAVOR OF THE GREATER GOOD.”

Modern Chic Farmhouse Inspired furnit ure, ho me deco r, art & gif t s

Jenna Forte, Manager of Giunta’s West Chester

GAY STREET PL A Z A , 513 EAST GAY STREET 484.887.8271 GIUNTASFURNITURE.COM

39

WEST CHESTER UNIVERSITY of PENNSYLVANIA

School of Music MARCH 21-24, 2018

APRIL 18, 2018

APRIL 29, 2018

28th Annual Jazz Festival

Concert on the Quad

Wind Ensemble

Madeleine Wing Adler Theatre

WCU Academic Quad • 5:30 PM

Madeleine Wing Adler Theatre • 3:00 PM

APRIL 5, 2018

APRIL 18, 2018

APRIL 29, 2018

New Music Concert

Guitar Ensemble

Brass Ensembles

Ware Family Recital Hall • 8:15 PM

Ware Family Recital Hall • 8:15 PM

Madeleine Wing Adler Theatre • 7:00 PM

APRIL 6-7, 2018

APRIL 19, 2018

APRIL 30, 2018

Opera: Die Zauberflöte - Mozart

Recital Choir & Chamber Choir

Collegium Musicum

Madeleine Wing Adler Theatre • 7:30 PM

Ware Family Recital Hall • 7:30 PM

Ware Family Recital Hall • 7:00 PM

APRIL 10, 2018

APRIL 24, 2018

MAY 2, 2018

Flute Ensemble

Percussion Ensemble

Chamber Orchestra

Madeleine Wing Adler Theatre • 8:15 PM

Madeleine Wing Adler Theatre • 8:15 PM

Philips Autograph Library • 8:15 PM

APRIL 12, 2018

APRIL 25, 2018

MAY 3, 2018

Faculty Recital: Dan Cherry, trombone

Wind Symphony & Concert Band

Jazz Combos

Philips Autograph Library • 8:15 PM

Emilie K. Asplundh Concert Hall • 8:15 PM

Madeleine Wing Adler Theatre Foyer • Noon

APRIL 13, 2018

APRIL 26, 2018

MAY 4, 2018

Latin Jazz & Jazz Combos

Spring Choral Festival

Madeleine Wing Adler Theatre • 7:30 PM

Madeleine Wing Adler Theatre • 8:15 PM

Madeleine Wing Adler Theatre • 7:30 PM

APRIL 17, 2018

APRIL 27, 2018

MAY 6, 2018

Chamber Winds

Statesmen Concert

Philips Autograph Library • 8:15 PM

Madeleine Wing Adler Theatre • 7:30 PM

Date and time of performances may change. Please check website for most up to date event information.

FULL CALENDAR OF CONCERTS AVAILABLE AT WCUPA.EDU/MUSIC LIVE STREAM AVAILABLE FOR MOST CONCERTS AT LIVESTREAM.COM/WCUPA

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Criterions Jazz Ensemble

Symphony Orchestra & Choirs Emilie K. Asplundh Concert Hall • 7:30 PM

WEST CHESTER UNIVERSITY of PENNSYLVANIA

School of Visual and Performing Arts THEATRE AND DANCE

ART AND DESIGN

MARCH 29 - 31, 2018

APRIL 20 - 29, 2018

Student Written One Acts

Berlin to Broadway with Kurt Weill, a Musical Voyage

J. Peter Adler Studio Theatre, E.O. Bull Center for the Arts An evening of short plays penned by the Theatre 313 Playwriting Class. We are pleased again to have our talented students serve as directors, designers, technicians, stage managers and, of course, actors to present this performance of original student work.

MARCH 19 - 21, 2018

Mosaic, A Dance Concert Madeleine Wing Adler Theatre and Performing Arts Center University Dance Company’s annual spring concert, Mosaic, celebrates the highly creative choreography of WCU students in a variety of styles. The concert also includes work by current WCU dance faculty.

MainStage Theatre, West Chester University Uptown! Knauer Performing Arts Center Berlin to Broadway with Kurt Weill, a Musical Voyage explores the musical catalog of the Tony-Award winning composer, from his work prior to fleeing 1930s Nazi Germany to the height of his international fame based in the US during the 1950s. Weill’s German work challenged government corruption and corporate greed while his American work addressed issues of racism and warfare.

Featuring songs from The Threepenny Opera, Street Scene, and Lost in the Stars to name a few, set sail with this revue as we uncover a story of immigration that is as relevant today as it was when first made.

MARCH 5 - APRIL 6, 2018

The Ese’Eja People of the Amazon: Connected by a Thread John H. Baker Art Gallery, E.O. Bull Center for the Arts Artist Reception: March 7, 4-7 PM MARCH 12 - APRIL 6, 2018

Tristan Spinski Knauer Art Gallery, Swope Music Building Artist Reception: March 21, 4-7 PM APRIL 26 - MAY 12, 2018

BFA Senior Exhibition John H. Baker Art Gallery, E.O. Bull Center for the Arts Knauer Art Gallery, Swope Music Building Artist Reception: April 26, 5-8 PM

Lyrics by Anderson, Blitzstein, Brecht, Deval, Feingold, Gershwin, Green, Hughes, Lerner, Nash, Tabori & Weinstein.

Music by Weill, Text and Format by Lerner.

ADDITIONAL EVENT AND TICKET INFORMATION AVAILABLE AT WCUPA.EDU/ARTS-HUMANITIES DATE AND TIME OF PERFORMANCES MAY CHANGE. PLEASE CHECK WEBSITE FOR CURRENT INFORMATION.

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LE ARN, CRE ATE & GROW W ITH CCAA

Spring INTO ART!

BE INSPIRED

Explore your creative side and let inspiration bloom with Chester County Art Association!

Spring workshops & classes

now enrolling online: April 9 - June 2

ShopArt gift stores

in West Chester & Exton

Monthly art exhibits

with free public receptions in West Chester & Exton and satellite gallery exhibits throughout the county

Themed summer art camps

in West Chester: 11 weeks, June 11 - August 24 & FREE drop-in art classes/camps at Exton Mall & The Garage in Kennett

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100 NORTH BR ADFORD AVENUE

610.696.5600

CHESTERCOUNT YARTS.ORG

Spring Events 2018

johnny peers

experience music, dance, performances, and distinguished speakers right here in west chester! johnny peers & the muttville comix

march 31 3 pm Emilie K. Asplundh Concert Hall Sit! Stay! Get ready to howl! Watch as Johnny Peers leads over a dozen personality-plus canines through challenging and hilarious tricks. Johnny has performed at venues all over the country, including Disneyland, the Big Apple Circus, the White House, and on television shows Late Night with David Letterman and Primetime Live. Johnny Peers and the Muttville Comix is a circus-style show for the whole family that truly brings out the dog lover in all of us.

Learn more: muttvillecomix.com

tamagawa university taiko drumming & dance troupe april 11 7:30 pm Emilie K. Asplundh Concert Hall Nearly 30 drummers and dancers from Tamagawa University, Japan, make a return appearance on our campus for an athletic and graceful performance that includes thundering Taiko drumming and

Japanese folkloric dance. As one of the top-ranking taiko groups in Japan, their amazing stage show has received rave reviews from the New York Times and other media. With growing numbers of fans every year, they return to the U.S. to perform at the Cherry Blossom Festivals in Philadelphia and Washington, D.C.

the mickey finn show april 21 3 pm Emilie K. Asplundh Concert Hall

tamagawa university taiko troupe

Piano virtuoso Fred “Mickey” Finn and his wife, American Banjo Hall of Fame inductee Cathy Reilly Finn, are the dynamic duo behind the acclaimed Mickey Finn Show. With humble beginnings in a San Diego nightclub, NBC picked up Fred’s show in 1965 as a replacement TV series, which kick-started a decades-long career in entertainment. The Mickey Finn Show would eventually become the longest running main comedy Dixieland show in the history of Las Vegas (1966-1996). To date, Fred and Cathy have brought their show to over 55 countries and held residencies at Disney World, Sea World, and Princess Cruises.

mickey finn

for additional performances and tickets: 610.436.2266 or wcupatix.com

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Join us on April 13 with colleagues and friends to enjoy the Chamber’s most exciting social event of the year!

WHEN:

Friday, April 13, 2018

WHERE:

The American Helicopter Museum

1 in 200 chance to win $10,000 Dinner & Drinks provided by John Serock Catering!

Benefits the Chamber’s Education Foundation Scholarship Program

Golf Outing Presented by

30 + One-N

FIRST FRIDAY

ight-O Art Shows nly

MAY 4, 2018 5pm - 9pm (rain or shine)

Art shows throughout downtown West Chester.

Bring friends and make an evening of it!

Monday, June 4, 2018 at Concord Country Club

Sponsorship Opportunities Available: (Lunch, Corporate, Closest to Pin, Longest Drive, Driving Range, Tee Box, and MORE!)

www.GreaterWestChester.com Greater West Chester Chamber of Commerce, 137 N. High Street, West Chester, PA 19380 | 610.696.4046 | info@gwcc.org

@GreaterWestChester @GWCC_PA

Sara Male

Timothy Blair

Dana Weiderhold

Trio Salisi:

B R I N G I N G L O C A L TA L E N T T O C A R N E G I E H A L L

“THE MAGIC OF MUSIC IS IT TRANSCENDS ALL COMMUNITIES AND ALL BOUNDARIES,” says Steinway Artist Timothy Blair of Trio Salisi. His passion for making and sharing beautiful music is what connected him with the other two talented artists of the trio-violinist, Dana Weiderhold and cellist, Sara Male—both of whom perform with the Lancaster Symphony Orchestra.

Although all three accomplished musicians work, teach, and perform in other capacities, the trio has remained a creative constant connection point

for all three artists. “The three of us are from different backgrounds, with different training, but the wonderful thing about music is it unifies,” Blair said. The two respective hometowns of Trio Salisi, Lancaster and West Chester, are both known for undergoing their individual cultural revolutions, and both boast vivid and diverse artistic communities with many opportunities for talented artists, musicians, and dreamers to contribute and to shine.

With that in mind, Trio Salisi has garnered an honor that most musicians dream about, an exceptional lifetime

opportunity to appear in concert at the famed Carnegie Hall in New York City.

“There’s only one Manhattan in the entire world and only one Carnegie Hall,” mused Blair about the honor.

On Monday, April 9th, Alexander Buono International will present Trio Salisi at the 11th Annual ABC Gala at Carnegie Hall. The local Trio will take the stage, take in the moment, and then ignite the night with a performance that, they hope, would make Beethoven himself proud.

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: CARNEGIEHALL.ORG/CALENDAR / 2018/04/09/ THE-ELE VENTH -ANNUAL-ABC- GAL A- 0700PM

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Be a part of Pennsylvania's Premier Revitalization Conference.

Hear from industry leaders, trendsetters, and community leaders on new efforts to energize and revitalize PA cities and downtowns.

Visit padowntown.org to find out more and sign up to attend.

congratulations to downtown west chester a 2017 GAMSA—

Calling all Community Revitalization Professionals and Leaders

Great American Main Street Award—winner.

Sponsored by:

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1230 NORTH THIRD STREET, HARRISBURG 717.233.4675 PADOWNTOWN.ORG

small town big film

Showcasing Diverse Voices from Around the World!

14th Annual West Chester International Short Film Festival April 27th - 29th, 2018 Tickets on Sale Now!

Short Film Blocks, Industry Events, Fabulous Parties & More!

Follow WCFF on Facebook @WestChesterFilmFestival Details at www.WestChesterFilmFestival.com

As part of the juried Chester Awards, WCFF is proud to present the BEST FEMALE FILMMAKER AWARD together with the Regional Center for Women in the Arts.

WESTCHESTERFILMFESTIVAL.COM

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T HE 26T H RUNNING OF T HE

SUNDAY, MAY 13T H, 2018

GENERAL ADMISSION TICKETS:

$30 per person in advance, $40 per person race day.

Children 12 and under are admitted free of charge.

Tailgate parking spots available in advance.

A Mother’s Day Tradition

For more information go to www.willowdale.org or call 610.444.1582. Races run rain or shine.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JIM GRAHAM

presented by

The

CONTEMPORARY Women who influence WEST CHESTER Since 1852, when West Chester hosted Pennsylvania’s first women’s rights conference, respected women have shown strong leadership in shaping the community’s commercial and cultural identity. Today, contemporary women continue to influence the values that make West Chester a more vital and welcoming place.

That list is long, but there are a handful of women who quickly rise to the top as the current contributors to today’s dynamic community leaders.

Wendy Kershner joined Chester County Art Association as executive director to become part of a tradition started

by N.C. Wyeth. Her diverse background includes publishing and corporate marketing, which she now uses to inspire creative thinking through art instruction and programs.

Holly Brown has served on various downtown advocacy groups, including the West Chester Borough Council, where she presided as President for a time. All the while she ran KALY, a downtown apparel shop she opened in 1988, now passed on to her daughter Polly.

Angela Scully knew from the first time she saw the West Chester Armory that it was destined to be a theater.

Her commitment as the Uptown! Knauer Performing Arts Center executive director has helped it blossom into a performing arts center featuring local and nationally-known acts.

Sandra Riper opened Sunset Hill Jewelers & Fine Arts Gallery 35 years ago and soon became passionate about supporting West Chester and its historic downtown. As a downtown resident and business owner, she’s chaired numerous committees and now is Chair of the West Chester BID.

Elizabeth Laurent began her lifelong love of history as a child growing up in an old house in Alexandria, VA. Today, she leads the Chester County Historical Society that excites locals and visitors seeking to explore Chester County’s unique American story.

the west chester business improvement district (BID) celebrates small, family-owned businesses that have

become the hallmark of downtown West Chester. Learn more about the resources that BID offers at DowntownWestChester.com

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NOTHING’S MORE L O C A L than beer brewed ten feet from your table.

NOTHING’S FRESHER than every dressing, every stock, every sauce made from scratch. Every day.

NOTHING’S TRUER TO WHO WE ARE than letting our craft beers and handcrafted foods inspire one another in unexpected ways.

Craft Kitchen.

Scratch Brewery.

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3 WEST GAY STREET

610.738.9600

IRONHILLBREWERY.COM

Photo taken at the gorgeous 219 North Adams Street home. Sale Pending.

Love Living in West Chester WE S T CH E S TER H A S E A R N ED TH E TITLE,

“The world’s most perfect small town.” there’s no place better to raise a family, and there’s no one better to help you find the perfect home.

H O N E S T Y | INTEG R IT Y | CO M M UNIC ATIO N # whoyouwork withm at ters # lovelivinginwes tches ter

SERVING WEST CHESTER 610.256.1609

MIKECIUNCI@K W.COM

MIKECIUNCI.COM

51

A WOMAN’S HEART IS DIFFERENT. That’s why the early warning signs of a heart attack in a woman are often different from a man’s. Many women make the deadly mistake of attributing these signs to stress. As a woman, it’s important to understand your risk and know your heart health.

Start by taking our Heart Tracks Assessment at PennCCHeart.org.

T H E R E G I O N ’ S # 1 H E A R T & VA S C U L A R P R O G R A M I S R I G H T H E R E I N T H E H E A R T O F Y O U R C O M M U N I T Y AT

C H E S T E R C OUNTY HOSP ITA L Important Heart Information for Women Women & Cardiovascular Disease • Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in women in the US • Over 450,000 women die from cardiovascular disease each year, nearly one every minute!

• Cardiovascular disease kills more women each year than all forms of cancer • 64% of women who die suddenly of heart disease have no previous symptoms

Heart Attacks are Harder on Women • Women are far more likely to die from a heart attack than men • Women are less likely to survive the first year following a heart attack • More women than men suffer recurrent heart attacks and go into heart failure

How to Stay Heart Healthy • Get Active

• Lose Weight

• Control Cholesterol

• Reduce Blood Sugar

• Eat Better

• Stop Smoking

• Manage Blood Pressure

If you or a woman you love suffers from heart disease, never settle for anything less than the best care. Visit PennCCHeart.org or call 800.789.PENN (7366) today.

C H E S T E R C O U N T Y H O S P I TA L

| 701 EAST MARSHALL STREET, WEST CHESTER

Local Events RTC presents BULLETS OVER BROADWAY THE MUSICAL MARCH 30 - APRIL 15, 2018 | TIMES VARY

UP ON THE ROOF SATURDAY, JUNE 2, 2018 | 7-11pm

The hilarious musical adaptation of the Woody Allen movie featuring a young playwright in the 1920s whose first Broadway play is financed by a gangster. Produced by The Resident Theatre Company. Sponsored by Fig

West Chester Downtown Foundation presents the 15th Annual Up On The Roof event to support the beautification of Downtown West Chester! Enjoy live music, dinner, appetizers and desserts, beer and wine, and the ever-so-popular rooftop martini. Located on the rooftop of the Chestnut Street Parking Garage, 14 East Chestnut Street.

Sponsored by Fig

UptownWestChester.org

CURTIS ON TOUR: VOILIN & GUITAR MONDAY, APRIL 2, 2018 | 7pm

UptownWestChester.org

Curtis Institute of Music alumni Jordan Dodson plays the guitar and Wanchi plays the voilin in this half solo guitar, half guitar/violin duo repertoire.

SPEAKER SERIES: SIGNE WILKINSON TUESDAY, APRIL 17, 2018 | 6:30pm

UptownWestChester.org

The Daily Local News’ own Signe Wilkinson talks about turning the bad news into a good image and dealing with hate mail.

BERLIN TO BROADWAY: A MUSICAL VOYAGE WEDNESDAY, APRIL 25, 2018 | 7:30pm

UptownWestChester.org

Featuring songs from The Threepenny Opera, Street Scene, and Lost in the Stars, get ready to set sail with Kurt Weill as he uncovers a true story of immigration.

SPRING GALLERY WALK FRIDAY, MAY 4, 2018 | 5-9 pm

DowntownWestChester.com

More than 30 artists display their work at galleries, shops, banks, and restaurants throughout downtown during Gallery Walk— most with new creations. Presented by the Greater West Chester Chamber of Commerce and sponsored by the West Chester BID. WEST CHESTER SPRING FLEA MARKET and BIKE SALE SATURDAY, JUNE 2, 2018 | 9am-1pm

DowntownWestChester.com

Join West Chester Parks and Recreation for some deals AND wheels! Enjoy the market as a customer, or reserve your spot to be a vendor or sell a bike by calling 610.436.9010. Located at the West Chester Municipal Building, 401 East Gay Street.

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FOR A FULL LIST OF COMMUNITY EVENTS, VISIT FIGWESTCHESTER.COM

DowntownWestChester.com

SUPER SUNDAY SUNDAY, JUNE 3, 2018 | 11am-5pm

DowntownWestChester.com

Join West Chester Parks & Recreation for this family event filled with entertainment and lots of delicious food. Children can enjoy crafts, games, and rides, while adults browse the four blocks of local food vendors, information booths, local artisans, and live bands.

FREE admission.

PENNSYLVANIA DOWNTOWN CENTER 3-DAY CONFERENCE: EMBRACING CHANGE SUNDAY, JUNE 3 - WEDNESDAY, JUNE 6, 2018 | ALL DAY

PAdowntown.org

Community revitalization professionals and leaders in the field: Join PDC as they host their annual 3-day conference in the beautiful & historic downtown West Chester! Find out about sponsorship opportunities, schedules, and more at padowntown.org.

Sponsored by Fig SWINGIN’ SUMMER THURSDAY THURSDAY, JUNE 7, 2018 | 6:30-9pm

DowntownWestChester.com

Bring the whole family downtown for great band entertainment, wonderful food, crafters, clowns, jugglers, dancers, and more.

Gay Street is closed for this festival event.

on the following pages, you’ll find our

Community Supporters—businesses committed to a thriving downtown. Although they may not be located in the Borough, they believe in the power of buying local and shopping small. Take time this spring to visit these businesses—and tell them you found them in Fig!

WE HAVE YOUR KEYS TO A GOOD MOVE.

Apply today at WSFSMortgage.com or call 1-888-992-7729. ©2018 Wilmington Savings Fund Society, FSB | Member FDIC | NMLS#417673

Whether it takes 5 days or 5 years, WE’RE COMMITTED TO THE JOURNEY

Bill Cochrane, Broker/Owner Kurt Kline, Homeowner

K U RT A N D K I M K L I N E began their journey with James A. Cochrane, Inc. Realtor when they met Bill Cochrane in 2009. They had always dreamed of owning a small farm in the rolling hills of Chester County, but the quest to find the perfect place took them longer than expected.

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2203 KIMBERTON ROAD, PHOENIX VILLE

In 2014—five years later—as the Klines were out for a drive, they spotted their forever home with spectacular views of the Marshallton countryside just outside the borough of West Chester.

Five days, several late nights, and countless negotiations later, their offer was accepted.

610.469.6100

COCHR ANEINC.COM

No matter how long it takes to turn your vision into reality, James A. Cochrane, Inc. Realtor is by your side.

Let Us Bring You Home.

WHEN BOB AND BERNIE COLLINS recently moved to Garden Spot Village, Bob was curious: would he still be able to pursue his passion for welding and metalworking?

A machinist and millwright by trade, Bob has enjoyed metalworking in his spare time since he was ten years old. After some coordination with Garden Spot Village, help from friends, and the recruitment of other interested residents, Bob established the official Garden Spot Village Metal Crafters on campus.

The Garden Spot Village community donated machining tools, welders, clamps, and other materials, to make the metal shop a reality.

Now the group is growing more than ever, with designated members training others on machines, teaching those who are new to welding, and collaborating on projects together.

Living a purposeful life in a thriving community is at the heart of Garden Spot Village—because crafting a meaningful future never ends.

We would love to hear your retirement story, introduce you to some residents and give you the opportunity to learn a little more about the Garden Spot story.

Get in touch and we’ll set a time to see if it makes sense to craft a future together. You’re invited to visit our website or give us a call.

433 SOUTH KINZER AVENUE, NEW HOLL AND 717.355.6000 GARDENSPOT VILL AGE.ORG

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Managing Communities with a Hometown Spirit

Owners, Bill and Robin Huyler

As a premiere independent full service real estate brokerage, a property management firm and accounting consulting firm, you could say that East Hill Real Estate Group does it all. Offering homeowners concierge-style management services for everything from buying & selling a home, to managing the day-to-day administration of entire communities and HOAs, client service is their top priority.

Serving both Chester and Delaware Counties, owners Bill Huyler and Robin Huyler are able to bring the perspective of both resident and business owner. “The company is very civic-minded and it’s important to us that we give back to the community in which we live and send our children to school.”

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1204 BALTIMORE PIKE, CHADDS FORD 267.571.9418

EASTHILLGROUP.COM

EAST HILL GROUP

The Doctor will see you…

Right Now

Staff of Pioneer Urgent Care, West Chester

COMMUNITY SUPPORTER

Your child has an earache, but the pediatrician’s office isn’t open. You fell and think your ankle is sprained, but your primary can’t see you until tomorrow. What to do?

An urgent care center is a convenient, cost-effective option when faced with a minor illness or injury. Crozer-Keystone Health System’s Pioneer Urgent Care, located in West Chester, is open seven days a week and staffed by skilled physicians and nurse practitioners. Named a Certified Urgent Care by the Urgent Care Association of America, Pioneer’s medical professionals treat conditions that range from sprains and strains to fever, vomiting and sore throat.

TO LEARN MORE, PLEASE VISIT CROZERKEYSTONE.ORG/URGENT-CARE OR CALL 610.459.3278.

1572 WILMINGTON -WEST CHESTER PIKE, SUITE 1, WEST CHESTER CROZER AT THEL AKE.ORG

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EUROPEAN ST YLE CUISINE WITH NEW AMERICAN FLAVORS & A TOUCH OF SOUTHERN FLAIR

For the past 12 years, Owner/ Operator, Ann Kolenick has been offering her widely loved seasonal menus, her signature ambiance, and her classic Chester County Wedding venue all in one location.

OPEN FOR BRUNCH O N S U N D AY HAPPY HOUR Tuesday - Friday

4:30 – 6:30 pm

A Chester County destination for toast-worthy food & wine

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423 BALTIMORE PIKE, CHADDS FORD, PA 610.388.7700 THEGABLESATCHADDSFORD.COM

Using skilled craftsmen to preserve and restore Specializing in Timber Framing | Masonry Architectural Woodwork | Plaster

Coventry House (Built 1733-1803) 18th Century Restorations has partnered with the owners of Coventry House, an historic Iron Master’s residence, for over twenty years.

18th century restorations provides experienced restoration

services to the Delaware Valley’s 18th and early 19th century structures.

Their passion is to preserve, maintain, and restore the original beauty, features, and integrity of homes, barns, and outbuildings of these periods—incorporating new uses and thoughtful additions. As general contractors, they offer all their services with the upmost sensitivity.

3380 COVENTRY VILLE ROAD, POT TSTOWN

610.469.6649 18THCENT.COM

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Key Stories Part 1: Patti Brennan “STAY TRUE TO YOUR PRINCIPLES and passions, stay focused on client outcomes, and work hard." That’s how a trained nurse and mother of four started a financial planning company in her laundry room nearly thirty years ago and became one of the nation’s top financial advisors.

Patti Brennan, CFP, President of Key Financial, Inc., and a generous and enthusiastic supporter of fellow female entrepreneurs, is the first to admit it wasn’t easy. At the beginning of this three-part series, we meet Brennan starting out and fighting to survive.

In those early years, flexibility was “key.”

Brennan wanted to build the business, but also be present with her children. Her daily routine, sans commute, included

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SERVING THE WEST CHESTER COMMUNIT Y

6 am emails before getting the kids on the bus, followed by meetings with staff, then clients, and delegating tasks for the next day, before family time and a few more hours of work late at night. Brennan and her husband (who started his business in the dining room) were able to provide the life they dreamed of for their children.

“But we didn’t have a social life,” she says with a laugh.

Brennan recently discovered a copy of her first brochure in the files of a longtime client. It promises “someone reliable, realistic, diligent...” who will “help protect your money.” Brennan’s client-focused, holistic approach to real financial planning, and her dedication to mentoring her employees were the founding

610.429.9050 KEYFINANCIALINC.COM

principles that brought her through tough times and still resonate with her today.

“Stay focused on clients,” she says, “and the rest will take care of itself.”

In part two of our series, Brennan will share what she calls “the messy middle,” weathering the financial crisis and fighting to grow.

top 100 financial advisors in america

for the tenth year a top 100 women financial advisor in america & top 1,200 financial advisor in america

Securities offered through Royal Alliance Associates, Inc., member FINRA/SIPC. Insurance services offered through Patricia Brennan are independent of Royal Alliance Associates, Inc. Advisory services offered through Key Financial, Inc., a registered investment advisor not affiliated with Royal Alliance Associates, Inc.

Thanks to our Female Entrepreneur Editorial Sponsor, Key Financial.

Key Financial believes in empowering women, and lifting up the next generation of female entrepreneurs

Dr. Jane Grosser Montgomery DDS, MSD of Tanzilli Orthodontics

F I N D I N G H E R P L A C E wasn’t simple for Jane Grosser. When she graduated dental school, the natural place to land would have been within her father’s practice who is also an orthodontist. But he already had a partner, and there was no room, so she set out on her own.

“I worked as an associate in many different offices,” she says. One of them was in West Chester, and when it was time to start her practice and her family, she made it her home. “I went from working six days a month to working six days a week, while getting married and starting a family,” says Jane.

The community helped her thrive. “My goal was never to have a large practice, but to have a nice small one where I could get to know everyone,” Jane says. “After all, I’m still a mom first.”

Dr. Jane carved out a unique niche as one of the first West Chester female orthodontists to build her own practice. “The mom nation here is so strong and they rallied around me,” she says. “I think that’s what kept me going.”

Taking a moment to consider her journey, she has some advice to others starting out. “It’s scary to own a business, but if you love what you do, it’ll all work out,” Jane says. “Too many times we’re just trying to get through the day. Instead, be kind to yourself and take the opportunities when they come.”

Dr. Jane recently merged offices with Dr. Tanzilli to have more time with her family, but still sees all of her own patients. You can find her at www.tanzilliortho.com.

SERVING THE WEST CHESTER COMMUNIT Y 1246 WEST CHESTER PIKE, SUITE 306 610.431.7350 TANZILLIORTHO.COM

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Celebrating local shopping, dining, arts, events, and community in West Chester, Pennsylvania.

presorted standard us postage paid fig industries 17604

F I G W E S T C H E S T E R .C O M

CHESTER COUNTY’S MOST TRUSTED JEWELER

23 north high street, west chester, pa 610.692.0374

sunsethilljewelers.com