Premiere Issue
The Fresh, Fashionable & Flavorful OF WEST CHESTER, PENNSYLVANIA
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PENNSYLVANIA
Fig速 West Chester
Issue No. 1
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the best of West Chester
“The Best of West Chester” may sound like a superlative, but this is one town that will never stop moving up. Shaking it up. Or ever consider settling down. The same 1823 brick sidewalks that hemmed the crossroads of nearly every significant historical period in America today invite strolls through one of the highest ranking “most walkable” communities. No heirloom shoe buckles or elaborate walking stick required. Kickier than ever, West Chester boasts iconic architecture: Colonial, Greek revival, serpentine stone and ornate iron work. Yet it’s also home to boutique shopping with all the cool of high fashion. Stirred in with a mix of sophisticated and incredible restaurants to tempt the palate—from seafood, to haute French cuisine, to hip gastropubs. Want it all? Simple. Sample them all at the ever-growing and extremely popular Restaurant Festival. Plus, be the first to shake your thing on Swinging Thursdays. Finish first in the Iron Hill Criterium Bike Race. Or never finish at all during the notorious Turk’s Head music festival: an annual encore of independent, cutting-edge and popular music all named after a historical landmark—the 1762 Turk’s Head Tavern. Once a hallmark as West Chester’s first inn at what is now High and Market streets, their ales definitely had flavor. Beets and dandelions. But now the beets are beat. And it’s all about chilling in West Chester’s hot spots. Today, you can sample a brewery with more flavors of hand-crafted beers than you can dream up. Or sip cocktails with friends on a summer evening, unwinding in a breeze that’s way more than fresh. And so very cosmopolitan. Off the bricks you ask? West Chester is teeming with bicyclists. Just another welcoming way for downtown denizens to get around and experience the funk and fabulous, the sophisticated and savvy, all up close and personal. A personal that melds into a welcome diversity. As the county seat, justice happens daily in West Chester’s lawyer community. Alongside them, the young and mature meld. There are sneakers and suits. Long-established residents, tourists, foodies, music lovers and West Chester University students who regularly host a variety of arts programs just a few brick steps away. Universal, yes. But, personal? Absolutely. And who knows? Maybe those walking sticks will come back. If so, you can be sure that West Chester will be au courant, as it always has been and always will be. One community embracing a trifecta of past, present and future. And, of course— the best.
GET TO KNOW WEST CHESTER The faces behind West Chester’s greatest businesses. On the following pages of Fig® see the business owners and familiar faces of downtown West Chester. Be sure to say hi, and tell ’em you saw them in Fig®.
GET FIG®, FRESH & FREE FOUR TIMES A YEAR Discover the fresh, fashionable and flavorful of West Chester. Sign up to receive your own copy of Fig®, delivered to your doorstep every season. Sign up at figwestchester.com
West Chester
COMMUNITY SUPPORT Thank you to our Community Supporters: Willow Valley Retirement Communities, Otto’s BMW, Great Valley Landscape and Pool, and Hannum’s Harley-Davidson for supporting the borough of West Chester and its local and thriving community. Find them on pages 36-39.
WHAT IS FIG®? Fig® is a communications package offering both voice and vision for great small cities. Our carefully cultivated audience appreciates authenticity and distinction. A symbol of unity and prosperity, the subtleties of figs and their importance in historic cultures make ‘Fig’ a fitting name to showcase a distinctive small city lifestyle. Fig® celebrates the understated elements and beauty that weave themselves into thriving small cities. EXPERIENCE OTHER FIG® LOCATIONS Be sure to visit Fig® in Lancaster, PA and Fig® in Media, PA. figlancaster.com & figmediapa.com
We, too, made the choice to bring Fig® to West Chester for similar reasons. West Chester is a perfect mix of history, creativity and community—the very pillars of a Fig® experience. We are honored to be representing a dynamic mix of shopping, dining, arts and entertainment that fills the stores and spills onto the streets. We look forward to bringing you a unique and seasonal look four times a year and encourage you to come to West Chester and be a part of the excitement. We would like to thank our many retail partners, community supporters and sponsors for joining with us to make Fig® West Chester a reality. Choose to support the businesses you see in Fig®. Together we can build a thriving local community. Deborah Brandt, Editor Meet the rest of the creative and talented team who make Fig® possible at figwestchester.com
01 ISSUE NO.
fig® is solely supported by our advertisers and sponsors.
Support your local Fig® businesses and join us in creating a thriving local community.
EDITOR Deborah Brandt
THE FIG® WEST CHESTER TEAM
Go to figwestchester.com to learn more.
THE FIG® WEST CHESTER TEAM
Moxie House 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 Moxie House LLC. Moxie House LLC cannot be held responsible for errors or omissions contained in, or reliance made upon the contents of, this publication. Copyright: Copyright 2011 © Moxie House 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 Moxie House LLC. Contact 717.394.7737 or info@figwestchester.com.
Welcome to the premiere issue of Fig® West Chester. On the following pages, we take a personal look at all of the reasons to shop locally for the holidays. You’ll meet the shop owners and find out why they chose to open their doors in the heart of West Chester—why they are committed to this place and this community.
Deborah Brandt Matt Brandt Jena Miller Shani Tucker Rachel Phillips Jeremy Hess Ellen Brown Laurie Skorupa (Intern)
CONTRIBUTORS Malcolm Johnstone
PUBLISHER Moxie House, LLC
ON THE COVER: The Art of Jeff Schaller
Jeff Schaller paints in the unique medium of encaustic, creating textural art pieces which incorporate representational form with the printed word. In essence, the visual and written symbols merge to create a unique aesthetic language that is both provocative and whimsical. His multiple-image pieces, with images ranging from polka dots to popular culture, evoke emotions and memories in the viewer. The combination of images tells a story and provokes a personal exchange with the audience. jeffschaller.com
PHOTOGRAPHY: Jeremy Hess
Jeremy Hess Photographers was created to capture light. Find Jeremy’s images on many of the pages of Fig®.
Fig® is sponsored by the West Chester Business Improvement District (B.I.D.). They believe in the power of a unified downtown. downtownwestchester.com
jeremyhessphotographers.com
Fig® was created and is produced by
FIGWESTCHESTER.COM For up-to-date events, blogs, sign-ups and West Chester fun 24/7.
Stay in the loop to find the latest events and everything West Chester at facebook.com/figwestchester
moxiehouse.com
culinary expertise INTIMATE BYOB FRENCH CUISINE SERVING DINNER & SUNDAY BRUNCH WINE CLASSES
PETER GILMORE Owner of Gilmore’s Restaurant 133 East Gay Street
610.431.2800
gilmoresrestaurant.com
“I love the small town feel of West Chester. In our beautifully transformed downtown townhouse, history, charm, elegance & a romantic decor set the tone for classic French cuisine. All with a garnish of contemporary American flair.”
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HANDMADE PERSIAN RUGS ANTIQUES & COLLECTIBLES FINE ART & ACCESSORIES INTERIOR DESIGN SERVICES
an original ZENA CROYDON Owner of Acorn Cottage
14 West Gay Street
610.430.3316
“ West Chester has the feel of a small village, but is sophisticated and cosmopolitan enough that I feel I’m living in a neighborhood of a bigger city. I’m very at home here.”
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olde world taste ANGELA CARLINO MILANI Chef at Carlino’s
128 West Market Street
610.696.3788
carlinosmarket.com
“I love that West Chester is a fun, young town with an appreciation of good foods. Always fast, fresh and fabulous, our authentic gourmet dishes respect Olde World recipes while embracing new world trends. Come in and indulge. Take away delicacies—and a steaming experience.”
AUTHENTIC GOURMET MARKET, COFFEE BAR AND BYO CAFE FULL SERVICE CATERING HANDS-ON COOKING CLASSES SIGNATURE RECIPES
Visit our other location: 2616 East County Line Road, Ardmore
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connecting our community
Founding Members (from left): ROBERT F. ADAMS, Esquire
In 1985, the founding members of the Chester County Bar Foundation were passionate about their mission to help Chester County citizens understand, gain access to and benefit from our legal system. Over 25 years later, we enthusiastically expand upon their efforts as we strive to ensure that our young citizens not only learn about the legal system, but become inspired to the point where they might one day improve it.
CAROL E. HALTRECHT, Esquire BRIAN L. NAGLE, Esquire Chester County Bar Foundation President THE HONORABLE RONALD C. NAGLE JOHN A. FEATHERMAN III, Esquire
CHESTER COUNTY BAR FOUNDATION Connected to the Community . . . Committed to the Future. 15 West Gay Street
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Wendy C. Hoffman, Executive Director
610.692.1889 chescobar.org/foundation
PATRICK & KIKI COMERFORD Owners of Jane Chalfant & Kiki Boutique 123 North High Street 610.696.0290 janechalfant.com “ What could be better than spending the morning shopping, accompanied by a trip to the local coffee house or a sidewalk lunch at a trendy restaurant. It’s all within walking distance. Customers leave their bags and wander through our quaint town.”
the perfect look CASUAL SEPARATES
ACCESSORIES
PARTY AND PROM
WHITE AND WARREN. QI CASHMERE. CURIO. BAILEY 44. WESTON WEAR. ELLIOTT LAUREN. DONNA DEGNAN. RONEN CHEN. CHRISTOPHER BLUE. PAIGE PREMIUM DENIM. JOE’S JEANS. FAVIANA . TONY BOWLS. SCALA . BRIGHTON. TOLANI SCARVES. MARLYN SCHIFF. UNIQUE CANADIAN AND EUROPEAN COLLECTIONS.
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authentic Malcolm Johnstone Hits the Streets SOMETIMES, folks come to a town and want the town to change for them. Not so for Malcolm Johnstone. When this west coaster relocated to West Chester, as the Business Improvement District (B.I.D.) Executive Director, he got it: “West Chester is what West Chester is. People who understand this thrive here.” He did, however, want to change the myopic views of it. To challenge them. He wanted everyone to recognize the treasure—and how to capitalize on it. To make West Chester a “destination.” For Malcolm—a Main Street manager specializing in starting up downtown business districts—this definitely happened, despite the typically transient nature of the job. “What I do, I’ve been doing for 26 years,” he reveals—in California, Oregon, and even Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. But it wasn’t a “good fit.” He knew about West Chester, had met locals at conferences. So he came east to “scope it out.” Immediately, he realized that there was the political will and leadership on the Board of Directors to make great things happen. We can turn this thing around, he thought to himself. That was ten years ago. As a town at the crossroads of just about every major historical period, West Chester also ranks first as one of the most walkable communities. And for a history aficionado like Malcolm, this is ideal. Within just a few blocks of his B.I.D. office—itself a building dating back to the 1840s—you can experience the dynamic to the curious. One of the most historic structures, the Lincoln Building (the first biography of Lincoln was published by the Chester County Times in 1860—not surprisingly, Malcolm and the Chester County Historical Society plan to issue a reprinting); the iconic Greek-Revival courthouse; and even the public drinking fountain installed in front of it in 1869 to water people, horses and dogs, all from separate drinking bowls. “Not all things are big,” laughs Malcolm. Except for the view Malcolm has adopted for this community.
Keep Reading : Visit FIGWESTCHESTER.COM
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Fig® West Chester
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MALCOLM JOHNSTONE, Business Improvement District Executive Director
The at WEST CHESTER UNIVERSITY
Arts
For information on the wide array of art exhibits, theater and dance productions and music performances by West Chester University faculty, students and visiting artists, contact the Office of Cultural and Community Affairs: 610-436-3500 or visit www.wcupa.edu/vas. photo: Dave DiRentis
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SIX AREA LOCATIONS: WEST CHESTER MANAYUNK PRINCETON SOUTH STREET BRYN MAWR LAMBERTVILLE
CLOTHING. SHOES. ACCESSORIES. JEWELRY. NEW ITEMS EVERY DAY.
info at greenestreetconsignment.com
CASEY DRUCQUER District Manager
119 West Market Street 484.947.5562 greenestreetconsignment.com
“From Gap to Gucci, Greene Street Consignment offers clothing, shoes, accessories and jewelry. For new or secondhand, our intimate boutique setting is a first-rate experience. A perfect fit for West Chester.”
recycling. reinvented. figwestchester.com
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a man of vision & good taste DAVE MAGROGAN is a rhino. At least philosophically. This means charging full steam ahead despite any obstacles. And why he insists, also, that each of his restaurants be ranked number one or number two within three years of launching. Easy as one, two, three? No way. It’s like getting ready for a Christmas party. Only every single day. Walk into one of Magrogan’s restaurants—whether it’s Kildare’s, Doc Magrogan’s Oyster House or the new Harvest Seasonal Grill—and “it’s as if you’re walking into my home,” the restaurateur says with pride. Guests must feel comfortable. Everything needs to be beautiful. And above all, in its right place. How apt for Magrogan’s heart, as well. It could be a police cruiser. A soccer field. A library. A Magrogan’s restaurant doesn’t open up in a town; it opens up to a town, becoming entrenched, and always giving 1% back in whatever form is needed. “Our company helps grow communities,” he says. And because West Chester is home to his very first Kildare’s, Magrogan feels especially connected, here. With restaurants from Tampa to North Carolina to Ohio, he continually gets requests to move his corporate headquarters to other places, like Philadelphia. “But we stay here in West Chester, because we love it.” Witness the $12,000 a year his restaurants give to West Chester charities before even getting involved on a specifically corporate level. >>>
DAVE MAGROGAN
in front of Doc Magrogan’s Oyster House in Downtown West Chester
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Kildare’s West Chester 18-22 West Gay Street 610.431.0770 kildaresirishpub.com Harvest Seasonal Grill and Wine Bar Glen Mills, PA 610.358.1005 harvestseasonalgrill.com “ There’s a real sense of community here.”
A 10oz beef “European Union” burger is crowned with a fried egg at Kildare’s in this gourmet take on the classic cheeseburger.
Doc Magrogan’s 117 East Gay Street 610.429.4046 docmagrogans.com
Succulent lobster and shellfish at Doc Magrogan’s Oyster House.
DAVE MAGROGAN Owner of Doc Magrogan’s Oyster House & Kildare’s
>>> The Holiday Parade, the Restaurant Festival, Downtown Beautification, Turk’s Head Music Festival, 5k runs, or Magrogan’s Annual Running of the Turkeys 1 miler, Magrogan supports just about every event and organization in West Chester. “There’s a real sense of community here,” the Glen Mills native insists, and also a great diversity of residents and restaurants who all work together. From “sketching on a paper to seeing it happen,” when Magrogan works, it’s a refreshing combination of idealism and business savvy with a tangible passion for cooking up unique concepts—like his latest venture, Harvest. All of his restaurants nourish with absolute excellence, but this fresh, seasonal grill feeds the growing sense of “conscience” that is permeating dining. People may be eating out even more, now, but they want sustainable, healthier foods. Don’t think hippy, though, he cautions. You can still get healthy portions of steak, chicken and fish in a crisp, clean, upscale—and, yes, very hip—atmosphere. With every dish under 500 calories. How’s that for rare and well-done? Yet Dave Magrogan is far from full of himself. Has he made mistakes along the way? Sure. But this is how he has learned to do things right, to get up the next day and always try to move forward. To more than pepper his philosophy with the motto of: “Give. Love. Serve.” This is one rhino nowhere near extinction.
T WO OPTIONS FOR MEMORABLE DINING KILDARE’S IRISH PUB Authentic Irish Fare. Pub Burgers. Premium European Beers. DOC MAGROGAN’S OYSTER HOUSE Fresh Quality Seafood, Extensive Raw Bar, Craft Beers, Superior Wines figwestchester.com
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CLOTHING & ACCESSORIES LOCAL FINDS HOME GOODS UNIQUE GIF TS
HOLLY BROWN Owner of Kaly 37 West Gay Street 610.436.8272 kalyclothing.com
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“I love West Chester because it is a unique ‘walking’ town much like you find in Europe, where people value community and history. I love that I can walk to work, pass and say hi to neighbors, and stop for coffee on the way in.”
CHET REBER Owner of The Painted Plate
104 West Market Street
610.738.0603
paintedplatepottery.com
“I love West Chester because there is always something happening, the town is always buzzing, and it has the ultimate hometown feel. ”
functional fun PAINT YOUR OWN POT TERY & BEAD BAR GREAT FOR PARTIES AND SPECIAL EVENTS
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luxurious flavor
®
EXTRA VIRGIN OLIVE OILS AND BALSAMIC VINEGARS ON TAP CUSTOM OPTIONS AVAILABLE GOURMET FOODS & GIF TS Visit us at our other two locations in Ardmore & Haddonfield, NJ
NANCY SMITH & KIMBER SCHLADWEILER Owners
26 South High Street
610.429.0292
atasteofolive.com
“Our vision for A Taste of Olive has always been that it would be a positive addition to and an integral part of a vibrant community. In West Chester we have found an abundance of both community spirit and community support.”
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ALISON MCGEEHAN & GLORIA MCGEEHAN Owners of Cottage Home 520 South Bradford Avenue 484.887.8358 cottagehomeshop.com “ The shop provides us with many stories anchored in time and gives us the opportunity to meet many wonderful people. Almost like reading a treasured book that takes you through a distant past.”
vintage gems FRENCH COUNTRY INSPIRED ANTIQUES & FURNITURE GIF TS, ACCESSORIES, VINTAGE JEWELRY CANDLES, SOAPS & HOME GOODS
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JAMES CAPPELLO AND PAT OAKES Managers of Rams Head Bar & Grill 40 East Market Street 484.631.0241 ramsheadbarandgrill.com “Rams Head is the first pub in West Chester to dub itself a ‘gastropub’ with such a strong emphasis on American craft beer. We love our food, our beer and our town.”
SERVING LUNCH & DINNER ROTATING DRAF T SELECTION PRIVATE PARTIES
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Let us create your custom invitations for any occasion.
CYNDI MEADOWS Owner of Penwick Design 132 North High Street 610.431.2739 penwickdesign.com
CUSTOM INVITATIONS, STATIONERY & CARDS JEWELRY & ACCESSORIES HOME DECORATIONS
everyday treasures figwestchester.com
“I love the history and charm of this small town. I am able to walk to work, take my dog in with me and have my children help me. Having a store in West Chester also gives me the opportunity to serve the community.”
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Megan Berkstresser, Sheila Frech, Maureen Walker, Jessica Bath
SHEILA FRECH Three Little Pigs Gourmet Deli 131 North High Street 610.918.1272 threelittlepigswc.com “ West Chester is small enough to get to know many of our customers well, but also big enough that there are always new faces around.”
GOURMET DELI SANDWICHES, SALADS AND HOMEMADE SOUPS DESSERTS BAKED FRESH DAILY CATERING AVAILABLE EAT IN OR TAKE OUT
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home cooking to savor
vibrant color
MARY MANNING & ELIZABETH TAYLOR Visual Expansion Gallery 126 North High Street 610.436.8697 visualexpansiongallery.com “ The intimate nature of the West Chester community is one of its greatest assets and a big reason that I enjoy doing business here.”
FINE ART PRINTS OIL PAINTINGS CUSTOM FRAMING CAST SCULPTURE UNIQUE PIECES RESTORATION SERVICES figwestchester.com
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CLASSIC HAIRDRESSING AND BARBERING HAIR SERVICES FOR MEN, WOMEN & CHILDREN COLORING & HIGHLIGHTING
pure beauty
SALON QUALITY PRODUCTS
AKEL BLADES Owner of County Seat Style 105 North Church Street 610.692.5822 countyseatstyle.com “I decided to open my doors in West Chester after doing hair and makeup for local TV stations. My family has opened businesses in our building for five generations now. My mom helped me believe people would be loyal to a small business, and she was right.”
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dreams big matures achieves reasons creates
LIFE
BIG.
IS SO
So much bigger than school. And yet “what comes next� depends on what comes first
questions plays explores wonders
your child
expect a life-size education pre-K to grade 12
westtown.edu for OPEN HOUSE dates
FRESH FACES
history in the making
300 YEARS OF HISTORY. RELEVANCE TO THE END OF TIME. Chester County Historical Society’s new President Rob Lukens shares his vision for the organization that preserves and shares the county’s past. YOU’VE BEEN HERE ONLY A FEW WEEKS— DO YOU HAVE PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE WITH THE ORGANIZATION? My museum career started here nearly 20 years ago. First as a volunteer, then as an intern and later, collections manager. But I’m not coming in as if I know everything. I’m keeping an open mind. WHAT DREW YOU TO THIS POSITION? I’ve always had a passion for American history and here at CCHS, I can help connect the past to the lives of Chester Countians in inspiring ways. WHAT DOES THIS MEAN, EXACTLY, AND WHY IS IT SO VITAL? Knowledge of our past is essential for people to understand the present. To have an informed opinion, you have to know how things have evolved over time.
DR. ROBERT LUKENS President of the Chester County Historical Society 225 North High Street 610.692.4800 chestercohistorical.org “ Think of the past as the ingredients of the present and future. To know who we are, we must become closely acquainted with our heritage.”
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IN YOUR TENURE, WHAT WILL EVOLVE HERE? The core mission will never change: to preserve and share Chester County history. Our focus moving forward will be to do that in ways that are relevant and fiscally sustainable. ON A LOCAL LEVEL, WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO BE A CHESTER COUNTIAN? There’s no one right answer. But to me, it is the natural, historical beauty that anchors us all here. BESIDES THE IMPRESSIVE COLLECTIONS, WHAT DO YOU HOPE VISITORS WILL EXPERIENCE? I hope they see themselves in the powerful stories that we share, and are inspired to cherish and care for this special community.
town jewels
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A collection of some of the historically significant treasures in West Chester.
1 2 3
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4 4 5
5 PICTURED, FROM TOP TO BOTTOM: 1) The Lincoln
Building, 2) Old Glory, 3) The Drinking Fountain, 4) The West Chester Fire Company Building, 5) Harry Rosin’s Sculpture
THE LINCOLN BUILDING • 1833 • 28 West Market Street A beloved piece of West Chester’s historic past, this Federal-style structure built of brick set in Flemish bond is the only structure in West Chester associated with a United States president. Built in 1833 by William Everhart (1785-1868), a former Congressman, philanthropist and prominent West Chester resident, this building was once home to The Chester County Times, which published the first biography of Abraham Lincoln in 1860. OLD GLORY • 1919 • Chester County Courthouse Located on High Street, this landmark statue of a Civil War soldier holding the American flag stands about 19 feet tall. It was dedicated to honor Chester County’s Civil War veterans and a crowd of 35,000 turned out for the dedication ceremony on June 11, 1915. Originally, Old Glory carried a sword; at some point after the dedicaton, it mysteriously disappeared... THE DRINKING FOUNTAIN • 1869 • Chester County Courthouse Located outside of the Courthouse on High Street, the fountain was a gift from Mrs. John Hickman in 1869 and provided water for people, horses and dogs from separate drinking bowls. It remains there today as a symbol of community. FIRE COMPANY BUILDING • 1888 • 24 North Church Street While no longer serving its original purpose, this special brick building is still held dear to the hearts of residents. Its fanciful design, including Tuscan, Romanesque and Gothic influences, has added a hint of whimsy to our town’s architectural repertoire since its completion in 1888. It was designed by Philadelphia architect T. Roney Williamson. The detailing is remarkable; be sure to pay special attention to the handcrafted sign denoting this building as the West Chester Fire Company. HARRY ROSIN’S SCULPTURE • 1966 • 2 North High Street Designed by the internationally known sculptor Harry Rosin, this fourpanel sculpture looms some 80 feet above the sidewalk as it showcases individuals that are a part of the history of Chester County. Carved from statuary buff Indiana limestone and erected on March 11, 1966, each panel is ten-feet high, five-feet wide and one-foot thick. Together the panels weigh a total of eighteen tons. Depictions in the panels include a Native Indian, the Founding Settlers, George Washington, Marquis de Lafayette, William Darlington, Bayard Taylor, Thomas McKean and Rebecca Lukens.
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GIVING BACK
guide
IMAGINE ALL THE PEOPLE. REALIZE OUR COMMUNITY. Finding the perfect gift. Knowing what matters. Taking stock of who and what we care about. It’s the time to think not only of our small circle of family and friends—but also of a greater one: community. The two are concentric, one nestled inside the other. Yet they both revolve around one origin. Our collective mindfulness and compassion. When we share this with nonprofits, we give more than a check. We encircle the place in which we live with the way that we live. The circle is vast. And the profits are boundless. CHESTER COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY The History Center of the CCHS is a vibrant place where people may encounter, explore and learn about the past. With diverse audiences and Chester County’s unique heritage at its core, CCHS is an educational leader in the history community of the Delaware Valley. chestercohistorical.org WEST CHESTER UNIVERSITY FOUNDATION When you give a gift to the Foundation, you help build a bedrock that is vital to the operation of WCU. It’s a gift of enhancement, assuring that the University can maintain manageable class sizes, allow students to work side-by-side with faculty who are leaders in their fields and create a positive community to foster diversity and an eagerness to learn. wcufoundation.org WEST CHESTER LIBRARY There’s just something about holding a book in your hands. Now, for only $50, you can share something equally tangible. Become a permanent part of the West Chester Library’s courtyard through the ever-popular “Buy A Brick” program. Dedicate a brick in your name, or in the name of a loved one, and give a very solid gift. wcpubliclibrary.org
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BRANDYWINE CONSERVANCY Our future starts now, so preservation is just the beginning. Health, education, beauty and increased quality of life for each of us—and our community—depends on the wise use of our natural and cultural resources. At the Brandywine Conservancy, we assure present and forthcoming generations of open space, dependable water supplies, historical sites and important works of American art. But we also provide an understanding of all of these—their meaning, both separate and together; their potential, both today and tomorrow. brandywinemuseum.org/giving.html BRANDYWINE BALLET Invest in a company—and be charitable at the same time. The Brandywine Ballet Company brings fabulous sets and costumes, new work from renowned choreographers and stimulating guest artists to all of their productions. Support the Brandywine Ballet. Your resources are guaranteed to yield big dividends for the Chester County Arts. brandywineballet.com/support/donatenow.html THE VOLUNTEER ENGLISH PROGRAM (VEP) Buy two books for as little as $50, and help Chester County’s hard working immigrants and refugees read these same books—and so much more. Your donation to VEP helps provide tutoring for adults to improve their English language skills, their American cultural understanding and their participation in the communities we all share. Enhance the economic and social quality of life for immigrant families, local citizens and consumers. Read: benefit your community. volunteerenglish.org
“The more we give, the more we receive.” FRIENDS OF MARSHALL SQUARE PARK It’s hip to be Marshall Square. Your active support is needed for restoration, improvement and preservation. marshallsquarepark.org SPCA OF CHESTER COUNTY Don’t just be human. Be humane. Help bring animals and people together. ccspca.org
KAREN CAVIN Owner of The 5 Senses 133 West Market Street 610.719.0170 the5senses.com “ West Chester is an exciting town and still on the rise. My intention has always been to compliment the other retail businesses, not compete with them. We’re all in this town together, and I love doing business here!”
REPRESENTING NORTH AMERICAN AND REGIONAL ARTISTS FUNKY FINDS & UNIQUE GIF TS FOR EVERY OCCASION ITEMS FOR HOME, BODY AND THE IMAGINATION
engage the senses
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a progressive gallery
FINE LOCAL AND REGIONAL CONTEMPORARY ART
EMILY WILKINS AND SANDY RETZLAFF owner Serpentine Gallery 138 East Gay Street 610.344.3992 serpentinegallerywc.com
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“ West Chester is a town that appeals to all age groups and outlooks. It’s historic, contemporary and alive.”
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32ND ANNUAL
Brandywine The Nutcracker December 9-18 Ballet EMILIE K. ASPLUNDH CONCERT HALL Tickets range $25 -$40
brandywineballet.com
MCMASTERS PHOTOGRAPHY
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Try Boxcar at Side Bar, Square Bar, The Note, Rams Head, Ryan’s Pub, Goshen Beverage, Spaz Beverage and Beer Mill.
BOXCAR BREWERY 306 Westtown Road 484.887.0538 boxcarbrewingcompany.com Brewing is an extremely delicate art. Mixing malt, water, hops and yeast along with ingenuity, experience, patience and a very discerning palate have helped Boxcar Brewery reach the top of their craft in West Chester. Last summer Boxcar was awarded the Gold Medal at the 2010 U.S. Open Beer Championships. Winners, yes. Conceited, no. “We love our home here in West Chester and we’re here to stay. We believe in our community and their appreciation of craft brewing is second to none.”
drink up!
CURRENT BEERS ORIGINAL ALE 5% ABV mildly hopped American Pale Ale with a clean crisp finish BROWN ALE 5% ABV medium bodied ale with hints of dried fruit, nut and cocoa INDIA PALE ALE 7.2% ABV golden colored ale with tropical fruit and resinous hop undertones
BOXCAR BREWERY & KREUTZ CREEK VINEYARDS SATISFY WEST CHESTER’S THIRST FOR ALL THINGS LOCAL
Kreutz Creek Vineyards
KREUTZ CREEK TASTING ROOM 44 East Gay Street • 610.436.5006 kreutzcreekvineyards.com “We want our customers to uncork more than just a bottle of wine. It’s a memory, a story—a moment in time that can never be repeated,” say Carole and Jim Kirkpatrick of Kreutz Creek Vineyards. Share a story this holiday—give West Chester wine; a thoughtful, local alternative to imported wines. Be sure to stop by the Kreutz Creek tasting room at 44 East Gay Street; a BYOF (bring your own food) establishment and enjoy live music every Friday and Saturday.
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Fig® West Chester
Issue No. 1
downtown west chester, pa
WASHINGTON STREET
WALNUT STREET
<NORTH ROUTE 100
CHURCH STREET
BIDDLE STREET
HIGH STREET
The downtown West Chester B.I.D. has a plan, and it’s all about business. It works because the contents match the mission. Marketing West Chester as an ideal place to visit—by highlighting events and letting guests know how to linger longer—means making it the place to start and own a business. The place to create partnerships among businesses and property owners, allowing them to prepare for opportunities. To always plan on something very concrete: economic growth for the long-term. The plan’s in place, and the vision starts now.
CHESTNUT STREET
< ROUTE 322
GAY STREET
MARKET STREET DARLINGTON STREET
NEW STREET
MINER S
Find many parking options in downtown West Chester
TREET BARNAR
D STREE
T
shop. dine. explore. love. Your best options for parking in downtown West Chester are the centrally located municipal parking garages. Park as long as you want and have no fear of getting an overtime parking ticket. Parking meters accept quarters only; some parking lots have meter boxes.
events
PARKING TIPS OLD-FASHIONED CHRISTMAS A four-day event to welcome the holidays. Start with the arrival of Santa in the Holiday Parade and the Community Tree lighting in front of the Courthouse on Friday evening. More than forty activities including guided walking tours of the historic downtown area and musical performances. December 1-4
PARKING, BUSINESS DIRECTORY, EVENTS AND MORE AT
STROLLING MUSICIANS To add to the spirit of the season, Strolling Carolers will walk the streets on the second and third weekends of December. Friday evenings, December 9 & 16, 6-8pm. Saturday afternoons, December 10 & 17, 1 to 3pm.
downtownwestchester.com
The mission of the Downtown West Chester BID is to create a partnership among the business and property owners to achieve long-term economic growth for business in Downtown West Chester.
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facebook.com/figwestchester
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Weekly SUNDAYS
events calendar
DOC MAGROGAN’S OYSTER HOUSE
Kids eat free with the purchase of an adult entree. docmagrogans.com
KILDARE’S
Kids eat free with the purchase of an adult entree. kildaresirishpub.com
“A Brandywine Christmas” Step-in dollhouse with exquisite furnishings, antique dolls & model train display. brandywinemuseum.org
NOVEMBER 30 JANE CHALFANT
Holiday Open House. Champagne and refreshments. 50% off one item. Sweaters, party dresses and separates. Soaps, candles and accessories. 4 pm-9 pm janechalfant.com
GREENE STREET CONSIGNMENT
Refreshments and snacks to enjoy while watching the parade along Market Street. greenestreetconsignment.com
JANE CHALFANT
Old Fashioned Christmas Parade in Downtown West Chester. All the shops are open and provide refreshments. janechalfant.com
CHESTER COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY
GILMORE’S
Sunday Brunch. 10 am-2 pm gilmoresrestaurant.com
December
Open House with holiday music by the Chester County Choral Society and Rustin High School Choral Group. 5 pm-8 pm ChesterCoHistorical.org
GILMORE’S
DECEMBER 1-4
DECEMBER 2-31
Art as a Gift. Holiday gift show. serpentinegallerywc.com
MONDAYS
Old-Fashioned Christmas: Santa in the Holiday Parade, Community Tree lighting in front of the Courthouse on Friday evening and more than 40 activities including guided walking tours and musical performances. wcbid.com
Second Sunday Soirees. Featuring a specially-themed menu. Call for a reservation. 610.431.2800
DOC MAGROGAN’S OYSTER HOUSE
Buck a Shuck $1 Oysters. 4 pm-10 pm docmagrogans.com
TUESDAYS GILMORE’S
Winey Tuesdays. BYO wine classes featuring a different French region each Tuesday. gilmoresrestaurant.com
THURSDAYS
THE PAINTED PLATE
Thursdays are Ladies’ night. Ladies get 1/2 off their studio fee. paintedplatepottery.com
November UNTIL DECEMBER 5 SERPENTINE GALLERY
Contrast. Sensational performance installation featuring art of Margo Allman and Antonio Puri. serpentinegallerywc.com
NOVEMBER 22-JANUARY 1
KILDARE’S Celtic Christmas Menu kildaresirishpub.com
NOVEMBER 25-JANUARY 8 LONGWOOD GARDENS “A Longwood Christmas” longwoodgardens.org
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BRANDYWINE RIVER MUSEUM
WEST CHESTER B.I.D.
DECEMBER 2-SEPTEMBER 7 CHESTER COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY
In Stitches, Unraveling Their Stories. Learn how commonplace pieces become heirloom treasures. ChesterCoHistorical.org
DECEMBER 2
WEST CHESTER B.I.D.
Old Fashioned Christmas Parade. 7 pm wcbid.com
KALY
Old-Fashioned Christmas Open House. Come by for wine and refreshments and holiday shopping. kalyclothing.com
PENWICK DESIGN
During Old Fashioned Christmas, hot apple cider and the jazz sounds of Nathaniel Vito. Holiday sale. 6 pm-7 pm 610.431.2739 penwickdesign.com
THE 5 SENSES
Santa’s Stocking Day Sale. Take a chance on up to 40% off your entire purchase. the5senses.com
VISUAL EXPANSION GALLERY
Artist Timlyn Vaughan will be signing copies of his new print, “The Doorways of West Chester” during Old-Fashioned Christmas. visualexpansiongallery.com
Learn more about West Chester events at figwestchester.com
facebook.com/figwestchester
SERPENTINE GALLERY
DECEMBER 3
CHESTER COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY Breakfast with Santa. Presented by West Chester Parks and Recreation. 7 am-1 pm ChesterCoHistorical.org
OTTO’S BMW
Otto’s MINI annual Deck-the-MINIs event in the new Exton location. ottosbmw.com
RAMS HEAD BAR & GRILL
Global Childcare Initiative fundraising event to support This Life Cambodia. Cocktails, appetizers, music and raffle. $10 tickets will be sold at the door. 5:30-7:30 pm ramsheadbarandgrill.com
DECEMBER 8
WESTTOWN SCHOOL
Open House Lower and Middle School. 8:30 pm westtown.edu
DECEMBER 9 THE 5 SENSES
Ardon Bardol Trunk Show. Custom & intricate polymer earrings, necklaces, bracelets, cuff links and belt buckles by local artists. Until 8 pm the5senses.com
DECEMBER 9-17
WEST CHESTER B.I.D.
Strolling Musicians. Second and third weekends of December. Enjoy the carolers at various locations in downtown. Fridays: Dec. 9 & 16, 6 pm-8 pm; Saturdays: Dec. 10 & 17, 1 p-3 pm wcbid.com
BRANDYWINE BALLET The Nutcracker. Emilie K. Asplundh
Concert Hall at West Chester University. brandywineballet.com
DECEMBER 10-11
WEST CHESTER UNIVERSITY
Christmas Wonderland: a Musical Holiday Spectacular. Madeleine Wing Adler Theatre. 7:30 pm wcupa.edu
DECEMBER 10 OTTO’S BMW
End of the year sale event in conjunction with a pre-screening of the new Mission Impossible movie featuring a number of new BMW models. ottosbmw.com
DECEMBER 11
BRANDYWINE RIVER MUSEUM
Sammy in the Sky booksigning with author Barbara Walsh and illustrator Jamie Wyeth. Limit of two books per person. 1 pm-4 pm brandywinemuseum.org
KILDARE’S
Brunch with Santa. kildaresirishpub.com
DECEMBER 12
BRANDYWINE RIVER MUSEUM
JANUARY 14
WESTTOWN SCHOOL
JANUARY 15 KALY
The WInter Sale. kalyclothing.com
JANUARY 21-MARCH 11
BRANDYWINE RIVER MUSEUM
Comic Catharsis: A Gift of Cartoons. William Steig, best known as the creator of Shrek and covers for The New Yorker. Featuring over 100 works. brandywinemuseum.org
FEBRUARY 12
JANUARY 27
FEBRUARY 18
Spain’s Soledad Barrio & Noche Flamenca Ticket Required. 8 pm longwoodgardens.org
Organ performance featuring Paul Jacobs. Ticket Required. 8 pm longwoodgardens.org
LONGWOOD GARDENS
President’s Weekend Prom promotion in our party room! janechalfant.com
FEBRUARY 2
THE 5 SENSES
Women’s & Men’s Accessory Sale All day. Open late until 8 pm the5senses.com
DECEMBER 27-31 THE 5 SENSES
Post-Christmas Sale. the5senses.com
January MID-JANUARY JANE CHALFANT
LONGWOOD GARDENS
Organ Performance featuring Glenn Kinckner and Linda Lorgus. 1 pm Free with Gardens admission. longwoodgardens.org
DECEMBER 14
DECEMBER 15 & 16
Piano Concert featuring Anne-Marie McDermott. Free with Gardens admission. 1 pm longwoodgardens.org
FEBRUARY 18-20
LONGWOOD GARDENS
February
Men’s Night in Downtown West Chester. Beer and appetizers, informal modeling, 15% discount and complimentary gift wrapping. 5 pm-9 pm janechalfant.com
LONGWOOD GARDENS
JANUARY 29
Young Friends’ Annual Yuletide Reunion: Free for young friends and their families. 5:30 pm-7:30 pm brandywinemuseum.org
JANE CHALFANT
WC
Open House. Lower, Middle & Upper School 10:00 am westtown.edu
CHESTER COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY
JANE CHALFANT
FEBRUARY 20
WESTTOWN SCHOOL
Open House, Lower & Middle School. 8:30 am westtown.edu
March
Bayard Rustin’s Local Roots. An exhibition commemorating the African American leader in social movements for civil rights, socialism, pacifism and non-violence, and gay rights. ChesterCoHistorical.org
MARCH 3
FEBRUARY 10-12
MARCH 4
Jewelry event in time for Valentine’s Day: special pricing, promotions and chances to win free Chamilia Jewelry. penwickdesign.com
Curtis Student Recital Free with gardens admission. 1 pm longwoodgardens.org
PENWICK DESIGNS
FEBRUARY 11
WEST CHESTER UNIVERSITY DAVID SANCHEZ
Emilie K. Asplundh Concert Hall. 7:30 pm wcupa.edu
LONGWOOD GARDENS
Family performance featuring Daria, World Music for Children. Free with Gardens admission. 12 pm & 2 pm longwoodgardens.org
LONGWOOD GARDENS
MARCH 16-18
CHESTER COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY
30th Anniversary Antiques Show. Exceptional dealers from throughout the country. ChesterCoHistorical.org
for a full list of events, blogs and more, visit figwestchester.com
DECEMBER 9-18
Prom dresses arrive. janechalfant.com
figwestchester.com
facebook.com/figwestchester
35
PATIOS AND WALKWAYS LANDSCAPE DESIGN AND INSTALLATION POOLS & POOL RESTORATION STAMPED CONCRETE, WALKWAYS AND STEPS
JOHN AMEN Owner of Great Valley Landscape & Pool 2 Tunbridge Lane Malvern, PA 610.644.2234 gvlp.com “ West Chester has that welcoming, hometown feel with a lot of big city pride. I love the diversity of restaurants and running into friends just walking the street.”
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Fig® West Chester
Issue No. 1
create your outdoor oasis
COMMUNITY SUPPORTER
walk in. ride out. OVER 200 MOTORCYCLES IN STOCK HARLEY-DAVIDSON APPAREL FOR MEN, WOMEN & CHILDREN AUTHENTIC GIF TS & ACCESSORIES Family owned since
1954
TONDA, TOMMY & RITA HANNUM Owners of Hannum’s Harley-Davidson 1241 Baltimore Pike, Chadds Ford 610.558.3331 1011 W. Baltimore Pike, Media
610.566.5562
hannumshd.com
“As a family owned business, we understand the power of buying local. We appreciate our neighbors in West Chester and are proud to support the growing community of Harley lovers with an iconic American brand.” COMMUNITY SUPPORTER
figwestchester.com
facebook.com/figwestchester
37
Intergenerational
friendship During the school year, the Willow Valley Resident Pen Pal Group engages 44 Lancaster City Elementary School students in communication through writing. The resident project began as a way to teach the students about letter writing, but the education has become a two-way street. The intergenerational experience focuses on Willow Valley residents and their pen pal elementary students learning something from each other. This unique collaboration results in an unexpected giftâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; fast-forming friendships between residents and local youth. 40 miles from West Chester. A scenic drive to Lancaster County. Visit the Willow Valley Welcome Center. Open Weekdays 9-5, Saturdays 10-4.
450 Willow Valley Lakes Drive, Lancaster, PA 800.770.5445 WillowValleyRetirement.com RestartRetirement.com
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FigÂŽ West Chester
Issue No. 1
Join us on COMMUNITY SUPPORTER
MICHAEL & LISA VADASZ Owners of Otto’s BMW 1275 Wilmington Pike 484.313.4446 ottosbmw.com
timeless style
“Otto’s has been a family owned business since 1968. We enjoy the young and fast growing market of our local community.”
COMMUNITY SUPPORTER
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P.O. Box 6276 Lancaster, PA 17607-6276 Get Fig速: sign up at figwestchester.com
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