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West Chester Weekly News Roundup

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It’s Friday, Apr. 26, 2024:Rosie Revere would be proud. West Chester elementary schools ditch library time in favor of an engineering design lab. It’s all part of a plan to meet new state science standards. Plus, West Chester Film Festival starts tonight. I catch up with three filmmakers who are attending this year’s event, Wawa files an appeal to build in West Goshen, and an inside look at West Chester’s newest boutique. Spoiler alert - it’s dark.  

Who’s ready? Let’s catch up.

West Chester Film Festival: The Filmmakers’ Perspective

Brushing elbows with filmmakers is what the West Chester Film Festival is all about.

The West Chester International Short Film Festival returns for the 18th time this evening. I find it fascinating what can be said in a few short minutes so, this year I thought it would be fun to talk to some of the filmmakers showing movies this weekend. I was originally going to try and edit these into a cohesive story, but in reading the responses in full, I think the range of perspectives, approaches, and experiences highlights what’s special about this festival.

Besides, who better to get you excited for this weekend than the filmmakers themselves?  

Nicholas Marchetti: “You Mourn Weird”

NYC/Comedy/8:00

HWC: How would you describe your film?

NM: 'You Mourn Weird' is a dark comedy about estranged sisters reuniting at their father’s wake.

HWC: If you get one reaction from audience members, what do you hope it will be?

NM: That we get at least one or two good laughs...hopefully where laughs are intended.

HWC: How long have you been making films?

NM: 8 years, I think? It's hard to keep track.

HWC: Will you be attending the West Chester Film Festival this year?

NM: Absolutely! I'll be there Saturday and Sunday. This'll be the first time I'll be watching the film with an audience. I'm really looking forward to seeing how they react.

Where to watch: Uptown, Saturday, 1 p.m. film block

Michael Quinn: “Brooding”

Villanova/Drama/14:59

“Brooding” is a horror film about a wildlife photographer beset by violent agoraphobia. As her boyfriend tries to get her into treatment, she escalates episodes of self-harm and convinces herself that her house has become home to a dark insect brood. (Editor’s note: Eek)

HWC: Why did you want to make this film?  

MQ: I had just come off directing Get It Together –– my young adult romantic stageplay –– and I wanted to do something completely different. I found myself reading a lot about the Medfly attacks [in California] in the eighties. I found this really compelling –– something about insects as a weapon. At the same time, the spotted lanternfly was taking over Pennsylvania, then New York. And, in the ways that ideas do, they meld and dance together, I saw some parallel between the invasion of insects and the global heroin trade. How far something so small comes, how much damage it causes. So I had something to say on all these topics, and that’s what this film is.

HWC: If you get one reaction from audience members, what do you hope it will be?  

MQ: Well, I hope they’re scared, of course. But beneath that, as with all good art, I hope there are enough contradictions and complexities to keep them thinking and wondering.

HWC: What part of the film festival are you most excited about?

MQ: Meeting the audience and fellow filmmakers, and enjoying April in Pennsylvania.

Where to watch: Horror Pop-Up, 9:30 p.m., Friday, Mayday Coffee Shop, 8:30 p.m. Film block, Saturday, Uptown (right before “Dead Cat”. )

Casey Fenoglio: “Takin’ It to the Streets: Healthcare Reimagined”

Pottstown/United States/Documentary/8:18

HWC: How would you describe your film?

CF: Takin’ it to the Streets: Healthcare Reimagined is a documentary highlighting the work of Montgomery County Street Medicine, a program that works to bring healthcare to individuals experiencing unsheltered homelessness in Pottstown, PA.

HWC: If you get one reaction from audience members, what do you hope it will be?  

CF: We hope that audience members feel motivated to make a change. Maybe they are motivated to correct a stigma or misperception around individuals experiencing homelessness, or motivated to donate time or money to local organizations providing homeless services, or motivated to advocate for more affordable housing. Or, maybe it is as simple as being kinder and more compassionate towards others going through a rough time.

HWC: How long have you been making/producing films?

CF: We made this film in April 2023, and it was my first experience in the film industry and first as a producer. We partnered with Mary Kate LoConte and the team at Merz Branding to bring our program and film to life.

HWC: Will you be attending the West Chester Film Festival this year?

CF: Yes! Most of our medical team and community partners will be in attendance. We can’t wait to see it on the “big screen!”

HWC: What are you most excited about?

CF: As a current Adjunct Professor and alumnus of West Chester University, it feels extra special sharing this work with the Greater West Chester community. In addition, the film has yet to be shared in a Film Festival so close to home. I think the Chester County community will be positively surprised about the great work being done right next door.  

Where to watch: Pennsylvania Stories Collection Pop-Up, Saturday, 3:30 p.m., Chester County History Center; 6 p.m. Filmblock, Saturday, Uptown.  

The West Chester Film Festival kicks off tonight at 5:30 p.m. at Uptown Theater. New this year are moderated Filmmaker Q&A sessions after each block where audience members can ask questions about their favorite films. And just remember, they will be watching you watching.

Editor’s note: Get your tickets soon. Two of this weekend’s events - the Horror Pop Up and Cartoons and Coffee - are both sold out.

Design Series: Make the Most of the Home You Love

Here at Spring Creek Design, we’re huge fans of Sarah Susanka, the architect and author of The Not So Big House. First published in 1998, the book talks about the value of quality homebuilding and remodeling vs. characterless, mass-produced homes.

Susanka celebrates craftsmanship, and her philosophy focuses on houses that emphasize comfort, beauty, sustainability, and attention to detail, all on a more liveable scale. The idea is that by incorporating details that delight us and make us feel more comfortable, the spaces we live in will feel more like home.

We bring this philosophy to every project we undertake. As the only remodeling firm in Pennsylvania included in Susanka’s Home Professionals Directory, we practice what she preaches. In the kitchen/dining room above, for example, a marble backsplash, a custom range hood, and a built-in banquette are the kind of quality details that make people want to gather and spend time together. It’s not so big, but it’s home.

Ready to make the most of the home you love? Give us a call at 610-273-9194.

***This is a sponsored post***

The Warnings.

A power surge was reported in the Borough on Wednesday.

West Chester University head softball coach under scrutiny. A series by WCU Quad reporter Rebecca Arnold documents the experiences of six former players under WCU head softball coach Diane Lokey. They accuse the six-time PSAC Eastern Division Coach of the Year of fitness shaming and generally creating a hostile team environment. I will note that two players, including former star Bri Garber, had a different experience and left comments critical of the reporting. “I am saddened that this article was published without the perspective of those of us who enjoyed our time on the WCU Softball team,” one wrote. You can read the full story here. If you were a player under Coach Lokey and would like to share your experiences (good or bad) you can reach out to The Quad at [email protected].  

Beware of power surges. On Wednesday, West Chester Borough experienced a power surge that caused the temporary evacuation of the Mary Taylor House. Upon arrival, West Chester Fire Fighter found a slight odor and haze throughout the apartment complex. Residents were evacuated until the source could be located. Residents were cleared to return around 3 p.m. and the incident was reported to PECO. During that same time, WCFD received a similar call on the 300 block of North Walnut Street. It was also cleared. It was not noted if the incidents were related.

Westtown-East Goshen residents check that security footage. WEGO Police are asking residents of the Bow Tree Development to check their security footage for any suspicious persons. The request came after the neighborhood experienced a series of vehicle break-ins during the early morning hours of Apr. 19. If you have any information you think might be useful, contact Officer Dittus at [email protected].

You’re going to feel that in the morning. What’s a little public shaming between friends? At least Mas didn’t seem too mad about it.  

The Accolades.

The estimate of 5,000 attendees seems high to me, but certainly hundreds turned out to watch the parade.

Mayor Lillian DeBaptiste, local representatives led the parade followed by the First West Chester Fire Company.

Rustin’s Marching Band performed and the Chester County History Center walked in costume at the 225 parade.

Last weekend the streets closed and hundreds of people gathered to cheer on the West Chester 225 parade. It proved a classic scene befitting the occassion. There were speeches (which I couldn’t hear) and lots of local dignitaries clambering oring into waiting Corvettes. The West Chester Fire Company was out in full force and period-appropriate costume. Some members even pulled a vintage hand-drawn hose carriage. The Chester County History Center contingent also dug into the archives for something to wear.

Rustin’s band played and the Henderson football team marched in honor of its heritage. There was a float from the West Chester Film Festival, a DJ spinning “When the Saints the Go Marching In,” and a live musical performance from the Look Around Festival. Some wonderful people handed out candy and pretzels, keeping the kids engaged while Mayor Lillian Debaptiste and her funeral home broke out a team of horses to close the parade with a vintage hearse festooned with the official 225 logo.

Congratulations to all who pitched in; it was a fun afternoon and a fitting tribute to two centuries and change.

Other things we are celebrating this week:

• Big bats. This week Rustin’s softball team relied on a barrage of hits from Kelly Fricker (home run, two doubles), Olivia Garner (three doubles), Jenna Kraft, Morgan Palotas, Joslyn Garner, and pitcher Lauren Greenwood to down Oxford 11 - 6. The Knights are now 9 -2 on the season, good enough for fourth place in the Ches-Mont Division.  

• Victory laps. The basketball season may be long over but Henderson’s Nyle Ralph-Beyer continues to collect hardwear. Earlier this month the 6’4” guard was named the Daily Local Player of the Year. Now he can add Chesmont Player of the Year, Chester County Player of the Year and 2nd Team All State.

• Playing through the pain. Despite suffering an ankle injury during Friday’s tennis quarterfinal match, East’s Ben Gao fought back to win two matches on Saturday and secure the District’s fifth and final state tournament berth. Ben is only the second Viking ever to qualify for the state tennis tournament.  

• Anniversaries. Several downtown businesses reached milestones this week - Slow Hand celebrated five years on Monday, Hair Collection made it one on Tuesday, and All the Dogs Love turned six on Thursday. Sadly, we missed the birthday celebrations but I am sure they would still appreciate congratulations next time you pop in.

• Getting your due. West Chester musician Pat Black is generating a lot of buzz. He was recently profiled by industry publications Rolling Hype and  24Hip-Hop. Pat is described as “a talented artist with a raw talent and unapologetic authenticity, on a mission to make his mark.” His most recent project is a collab with West Coast artist THE GAME. If you’re not already, follow him on Instagram here.  

Hello.

If you’re going to dress all in black, you have to pay attention to textures, Courtney tells me. 

What do you do when you have a design degree and a closet overflowing with vintage finds? Take it as a sign. Earlier this month Courtney opened a shop on E. Gay Street after her husband encouraged her to follow her dreams - and do something about her clothes collection. Now the West Chester transplant is the proud owner of DRK MTTR, a curated mix of new classics and vintage finds.

Despite a definite point of view - the entire store is black, Courtney has strived to mix in a variety of price points and sizes to accommodate a range of shoppers. I found an Anthropologie dress for $230 next to a vintage lace jacquard dress for less than $100. I also noticed the attention to detail. From rhinestone buttons to lace overlays and leather accents, each item stands alone.

And better yet? It’s all for us. DRK MTTR has no online inventory. You must go in to shop, as you should. “It’s such a lovely town,” says Courtney.  

The store is open Thursday 12 to 7 p.m., Friday and Saturday 12 to 8 p.m. and Sunday 12 to 5 p.m. They carry dresses, skirts, tops, pants, shoes and outer wear - all for women.  Courtney says men’s wear may be coming, if she can figure out how to incorporate it while maintaining that gallery feel.  For now, she’s just soaking up the experience and looking forward to the Gay Street closure.

Also this week, West Goshen Township said hello to a notice of appeal. The suit was filed in response to its Mar. 19 denial of a conditional use application to build a Wawa at 929 S. High Street. According to documents shared by West Goshen Sunshine, the appeal was filed by the Parkway Shopping Center on April 18.

New tree plantings can not keep up with the loss of old trees like the one taken down in Everhart Park this week.

Finally, today is Arbor Day. So, we will also be saying hello to some trees. Last weekend, East Goshen planted a 15-ft black gum tree in Clymer’s Woods, while the Borough has a ceremonial tree planting scheduled for this afternoon at the Melton Center. Both towns are celebrating their distinctions as “Tree Cities.” However, a few ornamental plantings are not nearly enough to combat West Chester’s dwindling tree canopy.

“We are losing a lot of our big old trees,” former Tree Commission Chair Jeff Bietel told me in an interview last year. “You would have to plant hundreds of those little trees to make up the loss.” You can read more about the state of our tree canopy here.

Goodbye.

Hey, kids, say goodbye to library class. This week an email went out to parents of WCASD elementary students from Assistant to the Director of Teaching and Learning Rebecca Eberly and Supervisor of Elementary Mathematics and Science Ian Kerr. “Big news WCASD Elementary Families!” it began. I don’t know about you but I am always a bit leery when someone seems overly eager to sell a change.

And as expected this exciting news came with a but - as in, we are introducing an exciting new Design Lab program for kids, but we are going to have to kill library class to do it. For those without elementary kids in the district, West Chester elementary schools use a four-day “specials” rotation. A special is an extracurricular activity all students participate in. Currently, the specials are Art, Music, Physical Education, and Library - and they have been since the district introduced a full-day kindergarten program in 2017. Before that, the district had a “flexible” library.

A flexible library removes the class from the standard rotation and instead encourages teachers to work with school librarians to integrate the curriculum on an as-needed basis. Getting ready to launch a big research project? A teacher can schedule time in the library to review the research methods available to students.

Proactive communication will be critical because even without the dedicated weekly time, schools will still be responsible for teaching library standards and skills, and as East Goshen Librarian Beth Gendron put it in her presentation to the School Board. - “Make sure [students] are not going to the classroom and Googling everything.”

The District admits that next year will be a learning experience, especially regarding circulation and equitable access. Kindergarteners and first graders will begin the year with a weekly 30-minute library period. Second through fifth graders will move immediately to  “flexible circulation.”

“The idea is a student comes to the library to get what they need when they need it,” said Beth.  

Will relying on kids to self-police their reading habits lead to a dip in reading times? The District doesn’t think so.

“We believe open circulation will increase students' interest in books based on their reading needs,” said Molly Schwemler, Manager of District Communications. “Our fast readers can check out books every day or two, while older students can check out a thicker book and take the time needed to finish the book.”

That said, the District will be watching. “We will be keeping an eye on that,” said Dr. Eberly told Board Members. “The more we read the better readers we become. The better learners we become the more we thirst for knowledge and ask questions. We recognize that, and that was really grounded in a lot of our decision-making throughout this school year,” she said.

So, with library gone what will be filling its place you ask? Well, this is the fun part. Beginning next year, students will take part in a Design Lab program. Every four days, students will get a chance to engage in the engineering design process with a social-emotional twist. In Design Lab, the creative process begins with empathy before diving into the process standards of defining, ideating, prototyping, and testing.

Each school will have its own full-time Design Lab teacher.

“Eight current WCASD teachers will transition to Design Lab teachers. Six will remain at their current buildings, and two will transfer to another elementary school,” said Molly. In addition, the district is hiring three new teachers.  

To illustrate how the process would work, Design Lab teachers took members of the Education Committee through a brief demonstration. Board members were asked to graph their emotion levels over the previous day, marking both the day’s high and low points. They then shared the events of the graph with a partner who was asked to come up with ways to improve the day. Designers had three opportunities to brainstorm ideas but each came with a unique constraint. For example, the solution must involve a robot or cost a lot of money. While here the demonstration ended, in a Design Lab setting students would then use available materials to create and test a prototype making changes where needed.

Teachers are hoping to use the process to highlight the importance of failure in the design process - teaching students to “fail forward.”

The changes are being instituted in response to Pennsylvania’s Science, Technology & Engineering, Environmental Literacy & Sustainability (STEELS) Standards. The new academic standards were adopted in 2022 by the State Board of Education in order to, “prioritize a shift away from memorization of facts to having students productively participate in scientific discourse and practices.”  Schools have until June 30, 2025, to comply with the new standards.

The district is holding three information sessions on the changes beginning on Monday at Fern Hill. You can find more information and sign up for an information session here.    

Speaking of legislation that could soon be trickling down, the USDA has approved changes to the National School Lunch and Breakfast Program. Under the updated nutritional guidelines no more than 10 percent of meal calories can come from added sugars. Currently, 17 percent of breakfast and 11 percent of lunch calories come from added sugars. I’ve seen the breakfast options, I think 17 percent is being kind. Changes go into effect July 1.

Pay It Forward.

My guide around the 6.5 acres Bournelyf Camp property.

If you drive south down New Street, past the University dorms, past the stadium, and look carefully on the right-hand side you will see a small green sign that reads Bournelyf Special Camp. Bournelyf -- pronounced born-a-leaf -- is Chester County’s only summer camp for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities - and it is tucked right next to a nature preserve.

Founded in 1980 as a project of the Church of the Living Shepard, the camp and the property where it is housed, have grown a fair bit over the last 45 years or so. The church left the camp to its own devices in 1989 when it became a standalone Pennsylvania nonprofit. In 2020 it got its own home after purchasing 5.5 acres from the church. It added another acre in 2023 which includes a small home they are hoping to convert to a full-time camp office.

Immediately adjacent to the camp property is a 10-acre preserve. At the same time the church was divesting property to the camp, it was looking to raise money from another land sale but instead of approaching developers, the church decided to sell 10 acres to Natural Lands Trust. The property, once the site of the 1777 Battle of Brandywine, was preserved indefinitely. Home to a small pond and several picnic tables, it also makes a great place for campers to eat their lunch.

Situated next to a nature preserve, the pond makes for a pretty place for the campers to have lunch.

Each summer beginning at the end of June and extending into August, Bournelyf will welcome roughly 125 campers ages 8 to forever young. Campers here never age out which is one of the things that makes the camp unique.    

“The population that we serve and the experiences that we give - [these kids] probably wouldn’t get that elsewhere,” says Executive Director Courtney Zimmerman. “And [camp] doesn’t stop.”

Campers are broken out into three age groups with experiences tailored to each. Younger kids get more of a traditional camp experience with horseback riding, hiking, and swimming lessons. Older campers focus on skill-building and neurotypical activities - think trips to the grocery store to buy supplies and afternoon hangs at the Blue Rocks games. There are also a few activities that bring all the campers together like the Friday morning meeting and the big camp show, a variety show all the campers participate in. It’s a highlight of the summer for many of the campers.

“These kids are never the stars of the show,” says Courtney, “but they are the stars that night. They would not have that opportunity without this camp.”

To help bring that feeling of being special without being the “special” kid to as many kids as possible, Bournelyf is holding its annual 5K fundraiser next Thursday in downtown West Chester. The race begins at 6:30 p.m. and will loop twice through the Borough before ending on Market St. There will be a post-race party at Wrong Crowd including snacks and a complimentary for all runners (over 21).

“It’s a great night in West Chester,” says Courtney. “You get to meet the campers, have a beer, and good food, all so they can go to summer camp.” Sounds like a good deal to me.

Interested in participating? You can register here.

Looking to give back this weekend? Here are some ways to support local causes:

Set yourself a (fitness) goal: Lace up those sneakers. In addition to Thursday’s Bournelyf 5K, the Brandywine Valley SPCA is holding its annual Walk 4 Paws (counterintuitively) 5K Color Run on Saturday at West Goshen Park, and Penn Fusion has its 5K downtown on June 8.  

Take an excuse to use that chainsaw: Hoopes Park is holding its annual spring clean-up on Saturday starting at 9 a.m. Bring your shovels, wheelbarrows, chainsaws, and any other tools that you think will help. Coffee, light refreshments, and snacks will be provided. RSVP at [email protected].

Lend your musical talents to the town: Downtown West Chester is looking for musicians to play this year’s World Music Day on June 21. Performers will be set up around town from 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. Pick a time that works best for you.

Play a little flag football: Safe Harbor is holding its inaugural Community Flag Football Game on Saturday from noon to 3 p.m. Registration is open now. Sign up as a team or an individual and brush up on your smack talk.

Sign up to clean up: Can’t commit this weekend? Plan ahead and join West Chester Mayor Lillian Debaptiste and the Police Department at their Boroughwide clean-up on May 4. Sign up now to reserve your street then head over to Borough Hall on the 4th between 8 and 9 a.m. to pick up your cleanup kit and receive a thank-you gift from the mayor.  

The Weekend Marquee by Uptown

May 3: Better Than Bacon Gives Back 

May 4: 90s Rockfest 

Get ready for the weekend with two amazing performances. On Thursday everyone’s favorite improv troop returns for a night of side-splitting comedy. Then on Saturday rock out to the music of Stone Temple Pilots and the Cult. Get your tickets before they’re gone! 

The Freakin’ Weekend.

Maybe it should say, summer? Temps are supposed to kick up this weekend, hitting a high of near 90 by Monday.

What are you up to this weekend? I am meeting my best friend at Uptown for the opening night of the West Chester Film Festival. I don’t always get all the films, but the sheer breadth of ideas always inspires me.

If you are around this weekend, loosen that belt. Spence Cafe is bringing back its clam bake, the Social Lounge has a new pretzel croissant (Is this the new crookie?), and Bierhaul Townhouse is trying to encourage a Sixers rally. Game is 1 p.m. on Sunday and they are offering up $5 drafts to the cause. Then, of course, there’s the Film Festival, Food Truck Night at Fame Fire Company, and the SPCA’s Walk for Paws.

And this week a very special thank you to our latest Community Sponsor align.Space. align.Space is a gorgeous shared work and event space right in the middle of downtown West Chester. If you haven’t been in to check out yet, go now. Those third-floor views? Stunning.   

align.Space

A 24/7 professional clubhouse for Chester County’s business leaders, align.Space is a unique shared workspace for members to work, meet, collaborate, network and socialize. Located in the historic F&M building in the heart of vibrant downtown West Chester, members enjoy three floors of beautiful workspace and meeting rooms, as well as a roster of convenient and enjoyable amenities. Schedule a tour today!

View a list of all our amazing Community Sponsors here.

Business leaders: Want exclusive access to this amazing community? Of course, you do. There are only three spots an issue so each one gets a lot of attention, and from what I hear, responses. Placements are filled first come- first served. Send me an email if you are interested.

Readers: Get your annual subscription now! If you haven’t yet paid for your annual subscription please do so now. Subscribe either through the link below or use Venmo. ($12 gets you a year of fun, excitement and plenty of new development updates! That’s like a quarter an issue.) 

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NEW! Hello is on the radio. Ever wish you could get your weekly updates as a podcast? - Well, you can now. Listen to the latest episode here.

Mark your calendars:

• Apr. 25- 27 - University Dance Company's Annual Spring Dance Concert, Madeleine Wing Adler Theatre, various times. Ticket: $15/general admission. Visit the website for a complete list of performances.

• Apr. 26 - President Fiorentino Retirement Celebration, WCU Asplundh Concert Hall, 12 - 2 p.m. Lunch provided.

• Apr. 26 - 28 - West Chester Film Festival, various locations downtown. This is the 18th year for the film festival. Events and viewings will be taking place all weekend. Learn more here.

• Apr. 26 - Food Truck Night at the Fame Fire Co., 200 E. Rosedale Ave., 4 - 8 p.m. Lots of food truck, local vendors and face painting by Birl Girl Face Painting.

• Apr. 27 - Hoopes Park Clean up, Hoopes Park, 9 a.m. - 12 p.m. Coffee, light refreshments and snacks will be provided. Bring your shovels, wheelbarrows, chainsaws, any and all the other tools that you think will help! RSVP at [email protected].

• Apr. 27 - BVSPCA - Walk For Paws Family Fun Day, West Goshen Community Park, 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. There's a 5k color run, a 1K walk and yoga with puppies. Plus, live music, vendors, food trucks, a pet costume contest and more. 5k registration: $40; Walk: $35; Yoga: free but registration is required.

• Apr. 27 - Life in Space, American Helicopter Museum, 1 - 3 p.m. Discuss the force of gravity and use Newton’s third law of motion to launch a rocket. Learn about freefall and microgravity and how spacecraft communicate with mission control. One lucky volunteer try on “The World’s Cheapest Space Suit.” Tickets: $30 - ages 7 - 12

• Apr. 27 - Jordan Simmons, Roots Cafe, 5 - 8 p.m. Enjoy live music and drink specials.

• May 2 - Madeleine Wing Adler Concert Series Jazz Division, WCU Swope Music Building, 12 - 1 p.m. This is a free, public event. Tickets are not required.

• May 2 - Bournelyf Special Camp 5K, Wrong Crowd, 5:30 p.m. Meet at Wrong Crowd for race registration. Race starts at 6:30 p.m. at the cover of Church and Gay Streets. After race celebration will be held at Wrong Crowd free food and a complementary beer for those over 21. 2 mile walk option also available. Registration $30 plus $3 fee.

• May 2 - Best of the Eagles, Uptown, 7:30 p.m. BOTE is America's most exact interpretation of the Eagles. Tickets: $40/advance; $45/door; Note: limited seats remain!

• May 3 - Gay Street Closure begins, Downtown West Chester. It will continue each weekend, Friday through Sunday, until the end of September.

• May 3 - Wool Needle Felted Owl Class, Nightingale Materials, 118 N. High St, 2 p.m. Learn the art of needle felting and transform wool into a whimsical project during this 2.5 hour class. $60.

• May 3 - Ramboree, 3 - 8 p.m. Enjoy food, games, live music and so much more!  Ramboree takes place at Ram Park, the large open area next to Sykes Student Union, 117 Norfolk Ave. This event is free and open to the Campus Community.

• May 3 - Spring Gallery Walk, Downtown West Chester, 4 p.m. Celebrate the thriving community of artists and galleries that call West Chester home with this self-guided art tour. This is a free event.

• May 3 - WCU Criterions Jazz Concert, WCU Madeleine Wing Adler Theatre, 7:30 - 9 p.m. This is a free event. Tickets are not required.

• May 3 - Bacon Gives Back, Uptown Theater, 7:30 p.m. Proceeds from this improv comedy performance will go to support the West Chester Food Co-op. Tickets: $25.

• May 3 - East Senior Prom, East High School

• May 3 - First Friday Jazz featuring Dave Mattock & Funktap, 4 West Prescott Alley, 7:30 - 9 p.m., FUNKTAP is early jazz borrowing from funk, fusion, rock & hip hop. Tickets: $15/adult; $10/student.

• May 4 - Yoga in the Park, Everhart Park, 9 a.m. Join Triple Threat Fitness for an outdoor yoga session. $10/class. Bring a mat!

• May 4 - West Chester Grower’s Market Summer Session begins, 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. every Saturday.

• May 4 - West Chester Community Clean-up 2024, Borough Hall, 401 E. Gay St, 8 - 9 a.m. Tired of looking at trash? Join Mayor Lillian Debaptise and WCPD Chief Joshua Lee to clean up the Borough. Sign up for a 2 to 5 block cleanup here.

• May 4 - West Goshen Community Yard Sale, West Goshen Township, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Township residents looking to participate are asked to register by Apr. 28.

• May 4 - Taste of WC- Sip & Savor Scavenger Hunt Fundraiser, Safe Habor, 20 N. Matlack St., 3 - 8 p.m. Enjoy a fun-filled day at the Taste of West Chester - Sip & Savor Scavenger Hunt Fundraiser. Tickets: $20 - All proceeds benefit Safe Harbor.

• May 4 - 90s Rockfest, Uptown, 7:30 p.m. Lounge Fly is the premier tribute to Stone Temple Pilots. Tickets: $35/advance; $40/door; Plus, $5/service fee

• May 4 - Intro to Cyanotypography, Nightingale Materials, 118 N. High St, 10:30 a.m. Learn how to use organic materials to create your own cyanotype prints using photo chemistry techniques from the 1840s. $65

• May 5 - Sugar Bridge Farm Spring Festival, Sugars Bridge Farm, 839 Sugar Bridge Rd, 1 - 4 p.m. Come out to the farm for an afternoon of fun activities from farm tours to alpaca demonstrations, craft tables, and a musical performance by Two of a Kind. Proceeds go to support Camp Barnyard. Tickets: $25/each or 4/$75.

• May 5 - Celebrations: Spring Concert by Chester County Concert Band, Fugett Middle School, 2:30 p.m. Tickets: $10/adults; $7/students/seniors

• May 5 - WCU Opera: Candide, WCU Emilie K. Asplundh Concert Hall, 3 - 4:30 p.m. Leonard Bernstein’s comic operetta is based on Voltaire’s satire of innocence, optimism and the unexpected lessons of life. With a legendary score, Candide is funny, philosophical and deeply moving. Tickets: $12/adults; WCU Students/staff free with ID

And in case you missed it, the Spring/Summer Events and Activiites Guide is now available! 35 events to plan your summer around. View the full calendar here.

Oh, one more thing, if you think one or more of your friends would like Hello, West Chester, too, please forward this newsletter and tell them to come and join us.

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