Seed planting time: Local seed savers have heirlooms for you
By Margaret Gilmour
The ancient tradition of seed saving sprouted in Chester County centuries ago when Native Americans discovered a rich mix of fertile soil, yielding topography and plenty of rainfall. In fact, Southeaster PA is a mecca for farmers and botanists, as just about any seed you sow here—planted in the right conditions of course–will thrive.
In our ideal microclimate we can cultivate anything from Mediterranean produce to Asian vegetables, along with a diverse variety of flowering plants and herbs. It’s no wonder, then, that we are home to a renowned group of seed savers interested in salvaging local history and making hundreds of species of heirloom vegetable, fruit, herb and flower seeds available to us. Many of the seeds are age-old Chester County varieties.
And since March is seed planting time, we’ve decided to devote this week to seed growing and saving.
I connected with two area seed keepers you’ll hear from this week:
William Woys Weaver, dubbed by the NYT as “the Julia Child of long-lost vegetables,” who “has transformed the field of heirloom vegetables;” and
Tim Mountz, an ethonobotanist, forager and local seed-saver extraordinaire. He and his wife Amy created Happy Cat Organics where they sell over 30 seed varieties online, at local whole food stores and farmers’ markets. Come back Wednesday to learn more about Tim and Happy Cat Organics.
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Dr. Weaver is a plant scholar and author of over 10 books, his most notable book being the garden bible for all of plant lovers: Heirloom Vegetable Gardening: A Master Gardener’s Guide to Planting, Seed Saving and Cultural History. It’s available at area stores and online at Mother Earth News where Dr. Weaver is a contributing editor.
The book, which won a James Beard cookbook award, imparts knowledge on ancient plant varieties, plant lore and the future of our food. He wrote the book thirteen years ago before (more…)
Discovering ChesLen Preserve
By Margaret Gilmour
Around the first of February–just before the series of snowstorms hit our region–I set out with my family on a cold, Sunday morning to explore ChesLen Preserve in Unionville.
We parked in the small side lot just off Route 162, then climbed over the post and rail fence where this new-to-me tract of open space mushroomed ahead.
Nothing stirred on the frozen landscape. We were all alone. But we could see from the tracks on the snow-dusted ground that someone else had already visited that morning.
Still a bit sleepy, my feet crunched through the hardened land as I followed the footsteps, not sure which route to take. I was thankful for this early riser who guided me across the field.
The three of us walked straight ahead and over the small hill before I turned around to take in the view. No kidding: I almost gasped; the setting was so surreal. Dunes?
The sandy-hued, dried grass and cornfields on the slope were sprinkled with a touch of white from the snowfall the night before. The blue sky glossed over the terrain.
Later I showed the picture I took to a friend: “When did you go to the beach?” she asked. This was no beach. This was Chester County countryside.
We stood a moment to take in the scene, then proceeded down the hill toward the small stream. The only sign of (more…)
Spring Fever: Growing Lush, Green Grass Indoors
By Guest Contributor, Hilda Brucker
During the winter months, one of my main gardening chores is to keep the grass green and growing. No, I’m not talking about the lawn outside – I’m referring to the little pots of oat grass on my windowsill and kitchen counter.
While not nearly as showy as the flowering plants of winter – cyclamen, amaryllis, and paperwhites – these little indoor meadows are a welcome touch of spring, and their lush greenery gives me a spiritual lift as winter drags on.
I first started sowing oat grass seed indoors for a cat that became housebound due to arthritis. The only thing she really seemed to miss about the great outdoors was the time she used to spend grazing on the lawn, so I came up with the oat grass solution to keep her happy.
Then I discovered that I really enjoyed watching the grass grow taller every day; it looked so lush and cheerful in the middle of winter that I was happy to have it in my kitchen. Before long, I was planting my oat grass seed in pretty ceramic containers rather than plain clay pots, and allowing it to keep company with the other houseplants.
Seeds of the common oat (Avena sativa) are readily available not only from seed companies, but from pet shops – a testament to how popular this little grain is with the kitties. I usually order a one-pound bag, rather than buying lots of little packets.
Although I tend to stick with oat grass, there are other grass varieties that will grow just as well indoors, including wheat grass (Triticum aestivum) and barley (Hordeum vulgare). Annual rye grass (Lolium multiflorum), also known as winter rye, is another option. Most local nurseries carry the grass seeds. (In mild climates, annual rye grass is often used to over-seed dormant lawns so that they stay green all winter.)
All of these grasses are incredibly easy to grow. I fill a pot with potting soil, sprinkle a thick layer of seeds on top, cover them with another very thin layer of soil, and then water well – and in a few days, Voila!
During much of the year, I set the pot outside on my kitchen porch to germinate, and I usually cover it with a garden cloche to keep the birds from snacking on my seeds before they sprout. The (more…)
Barrel Tasting at Patone Cellars
By Roger Morris
Over the past few weeks, I have been participating in barrel tastings – the universal winemaking ritual – in 14th-century castles in Bordeaux and stately farmhouses in Emilia-Romagna, but it still has the same magic in Chester County.
One of my recent local stops was Mario Patone’s garage winery, where I looked into barrels with him.
Patone’s day job is as a CPA, and this is crush season for him – income tax preparation – and he still was wearing the tools of that trade, white shirt and a tie, as we walked into his garage on South Guernsey Road in the countryside south of West Grove, where he traded his hand calculator for a long pipette and glistening wine glasses.
He moved aside some blueprints, proof that he expects to soon start building his official winery for Patone Cellars a couple of miles away on Route 841 and have at least part of it completed in time for the other crush time in his two-career existence – the 2010 grape harvest.
In many ways, the delicate curves of an oak wine barrel, with its stoppered round hole in its side, is a winemaker’s oracle. Patone dips the pipette into the barrel and draws out the dark purple liquid, barely six months old, and he can see into the past – what the 2009 growing season and harvest (more…)
Gotta go: Philly Flower Show
By Margaret Gilmour
There’s still time to take in the Philadelphia International Flower Show, now blooming in full force downtown at the civic center.
I went with two friends Monday evening (from 4:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.), a perfect time to escape most of the crowds––I think we could actually see from one end of the show to another. I took my time visiting each display and walking around the spot-lit exhibits, never bumping into another showgoer or missing a detail I wanted to get closer to.
This grand floral event is Pennsylvania Horticultural Society’s oldest and largest indoor flower show in the world. And this year’s theme, Passport to the World, could easily have been called Passport to the Wilds. The showcase of exotic garden scenes transports you to mysterious environments throughout the world.
In keeping with Flower Show tradition, at every turn you’ll find your mouth agape either in awe, or in shock. Some settings are elaborate stages of artful plant life, others, blossoming naturalistic scenes. All of it unfolds into a botanical celebration you’ll only experience in Philly.
A favorite stop was the front porches decorated by local garden clubs. I could imagine sitting on several of them to idle away an afternoon. (more…)
Witch-Hazel’s Blooming in the White Landscape
By Margaret Gilmour
This winter the branches of my Witch-hazel (Hamamelis x. intermedia) are covered in snow. There are a couple limbs reaching out above the mound, with a few blooms trying desperately to show off their spiked flowers, but for the most part I thought this was just a bad year for winter blossoms.
Then, yesterday, I took a walk at Longwood Gardens, where a group of Witch-hazel surprised me as I rounded the corner. Their bright colors a brilliant show against the white background. It was quite a contrast from what I saw last year at this time in the same spot: sun and grass. (Click here for that story.)
Thanks Witch-hazel, for reminding us that spring is so near.
Got Snow? Might as well Snowshoe
By Margaret Gilmour
The first time I went snowshoeing was about 11 years ago in Warren, Vermont.
I wore lightweight, carbon fiber shoes that our innkeeper, a marathon runner, lent to me so that I could run through the groomed, single-track path that was also shared with the cross-country skiers.
I discovered that running on the snow’s packed surface is a lot like running on the beach: you get your grip by digging in with your forefoot as you run. The work-out is much more intense than on a road or in a field, and I managed to go only one mile before I slowed down to walk.
But, I was hooked after my first try. I loved cruising along on a carpet of snow, being outside. For me, this epic snowfall is a gift from February.
We’re freed from a cold, barren winterscape, and handed a snowy terrain adding new adventure to getting outdoors. You can sled (we loved sledding at Brandywine Creek State Park last week), cross-country ski, or snowshoe, which is just winter hiking. And like sledding, you don’t have to spend a lot of money on gear.
In fact, snowshoeing is so simple anyone can do it. All you need is at least six inches of snow on the ground, your warmest insulated clothes, and snowshoes, of course.
Clip on the shoes and remember to adjust your gait to a slightly wider stride, and you’re off. You walk normally—remembering not to waste energy by stepping too high or all that extra work will just tire you out.
If you’re thinking of buying a pair of snowshoes, remember that just as in any sport, there are different styles for various occasions. Around here, smaller, lighter recreational snowshoes are recommended for running and hiking where the trail has already been broken. They’re are also good for the conditions out there now: slightly packed, a little icy.
The larger snowshoes are for hiking with a backpack, and there are some shoes specifically designed to keep you up on powder.
But don’t let the details of the features dissuade you from choosing a basic pair. Sure you can really get into learning about all the options: rotating toe cords, pivoting systems, aluminum claws––all-important elements in a snowshoe’s structure. Rather than get overwhelmed by the selections, though, keep it simple by following these tips:
• there are three basic categories—Recreational/Fitness, Technical and Youth (Technical is for climbing and mountaineering);
• the shoes only come in a few sizes for each model, making it easy to decide what’s best for you (much easier than choosing skis or snowboards); (more…)
A Perfect Pair: Beer and Chocolate
By Margaret Gilmour
With the exception of Roger Morris, many wine connoisseurs snub marrying wine and chocolate. Beer lovers, on the other hand, love pairing rich, dark chocolate with a rich, dark beer. Think stouts and porters.
Since I prefer a hoppy IPA or lighter-bodied Pilsner to a dense stout or malty porter, I decided to call two local craft brewers to help me get to the romance behind this favored combination.
“Beer and dessert is one of the funnest things to do,” says Tom Kehoe, Yards Brewing Company co-founder and brewmaster. He loves ginger snaps with a pint of his Poor Richard’s Tavern Spruce Ale.
But when it comes to chocolate and beer, Tom pours Yard’s molasses-based General Washington’s Tavern Porter: “It’s sweet, strong and mouth-filling, and pulls the chocolate flavor right off your tongue,” he says. “The roasted malted barley gives the beer the similar bitterness you’ll find in dark chocolate–one that is at least 60 percent cocoa.”
The carbonation in the beer also maximizes the synergy of this pairing by cutting through the fats in the chocolate and encouraging all the flavors to mix together. Tom says to stay on the “sweet side of beer with malty ends” when choosing one to compliment chocolate: dry stouts are good, and sweet stouts/porters are even better (like Yard’s General Washington’s Tavern Porter). (more…)
Pairing Wine with Chocolate
By Roger Morris, Guest Contributor
When I first started seriously drinking wine some years ago, and writing about it, the standard food-matching prohibitions were no salads and no chocolates. Vinegar-based dressings would kill any wine, we were told, but that was before Caesar salads bearing hunks of chicken, washed down with California Chardonnay, became tout-le-rage.
I’m not sure what the excuse was for not letting wine and chocolate cohabit – perhaps there was fear that a dark truffle might overwhelm a wimpy, but prized red Bordeaux. But I rather suspect the experts wanted to keep the daring secret to themselves: That it wasn’t an apple that got Adam and Eve tossed from Eden. Instead, the two were having that “your place or mine” conversation over a handful of Godivas and a glass of tawny Port.
Nowadays, we absolutely love to combine wine and chocolate – and you can do it locally, as there are several Chester County artisan chocolate makers whose truffles will match quite well with local wines.
My personal preference is to have darker, harder, more-concentrated chocolates with red wines that have a lot of tannins. Indeed, the slightly bitter, dusty wine tannins are generally described as providing a “chocolate” finish to many of these wines. Cabernets Sauvignons, such as those Eric Miller makes at Chaddsford Winery and Gino Razzi crafts at Penns Woods Winery, go particularly well with these dark sweets.
Softer, creamier chocolate truffles are excellent with rounder, fruitier reds such as the Port-like, fortified Ruby K that Jim Kirkpatrick puts together at Kreutz Creek Vineyards or some of the rounded red blends vinted by David Hoffman at Paradocx Vineyard. And local Merlots made by a number of producers will match well.
The Best in Environmental Films: At Home or At a Fest
By Margaret Gilmour
February is going to be a cold month, but a lot of comfort can be found wrapped in romance, darlings (big and small) and Valentine treats.
Actually, this is the month I usually find myself wrapped up in front of the fireplace with a good movie (Friday night is movie night at my house). In fact, with the 82nd Academy Awards nominations just announced this week, I know I’ll be adding some new films to my must-see list.
It was good to hear that several environmental documentaries received best feature nominations including Food, Inc. and The Cove.
Actually, I’ve seen both, and I vote for The Cove. I am sure I sat with my mouth ajar during half of the film. Not just because of what happens to the dolphins, but because of what the filmmakers brew up to make their trip to Japan successful and to capture events unthinkable.
If you like documentaries, Mother Nature Network (MNN) came up with the of list of 2009’s top 10 environmental films from all over the world—and each one examines issues that deserve our attention. Some of the films can be viewed online for free.
MNN’s top 10 environmental films for 2009:
While I’ll look forward to staying put for a few nights throughout the month and taking in a documentary here and there, I am also looking forward to getting out for Stroud Water Research Center’s third annual Environmental Film Festival on February 11th at the Delaware Museum of Natural History. Ticket price ($20/seat) includes refreshments, cocktails and a chance at winning prizes from their impressive list of local and national sponsors including Trail Creek Outfitters, Talula’s Table and Sierra Nevada Brewing Co. (love their beer).
UPDATE 2/9/2010: Due to the severe storm/blizzard that’s coming our way, Stroud’s planning to host the festival on Friday night, February 12th, instead. We hope you can still make it.
I called Liz Brooking, Director of Communications and Marketing at Stroud to get more information about their series, and it sounds like a great line up of 12 documentaries and short films created by independent filmmakers.
“The films illustrate how the acts of many individuals really do add up,” she says. “We wanted to inspire people and demonstrate that they can make a difference whether their actions are small or large.”
Started in California by The South Yuba River Citizens League (SYRCL), the Wild and Scenic Environmental Film Festival is the non-profit’s attempt to build community within the Yuba Watershed while exploring environmental issues through film. Their film project turned into such a success that it became the largest of its kind in the U.S.
I like the idea of watching a series of films on issues that may prove new to me, and being inspired rather than overwhelmed by the message. After all, in addition to being educated, I am also looking for entertainment and escaping into a world other than my own.
“Film is a visceral medium,” Liz says. “It gives people an opportunity to identify with the individuals in the story and takes the message out of an abstract concept.”
When and Where:
Stroud Water Research Center’s Environmental Film Festival
UPDATE 2/9/2010: Due to the severe storm/blizzard that’s coming our way, Stroud’s planning to host the festival on Friday night, February 12th, instead. We hope you can still make it.
Films start at 6:30 p.m.
Delaware Museum of Natural History
See calendar listing for list of films and to purchase tickets or click here. (Tickets almost sold out—place your order soon if you want to go.)
Photos from Stroud Water Research Center (From their film fest)
Sources: MNN.com, National Weather Service
Mid-winter Blues? Must Be Time for a Raclette Party
By Margaret Gilmour
Right about now—the end of January—many of us enjoy a pause from holiday events and social gatherings that peaked a month ago.
At the same time, though, the colder, shorter days tend to hatch crabby, weary moods, better known as the mid-winter blues.
So, do we hibernate, or do we get out even when it’s so cold?
A little of both works for me.
While you allow yourself time for rest and solace, remember that centuries ago, winter became the time for a long awaited recess. Summer meant tending to crops from daybreak until dusk, so when harvest wrapped up in the fall, worn out neighbors and families were more than ready to replace hard work with a little party time.
In fact, “tarrying” was the custom for rural colonial families: They’d pack up in the afternoon, head out and arrive at another’s home just in time for dinner and a sleep over. And with no phones around, you’d never know when to expect a visitor, but your house was always open in the hope that guests would appear and a gathering of food and drink would ensue. After all, long days working on the farm provided many hours of solitude, so winter meant catching up on conversation and socializing. Sharing experiences (in person) is a good remedy for battling the blues.
I even read somewhere that colonists would keep a kettle of soup steaming 24/7, adding more ingredients to the pot as the soup was served, rather than emptying it to start anew. That way, there would be an endless supply of warm food for drop-ins.
Okay, that idea doesn’t appeal.
But throughout history, there were always plenty of cultural cold weather therapies including mid-winter festivals with huge outdoor fires, and dancing and singing that expended any pent up energy—probably relieved a lot of stress too. And getting physical will certainly shake off the doldrums.
Or, of course, if you’re not up for dancing in the snow, simply staying indoors for an intimate mid-winter celebration with good friends gathered around the hearth to preserve heat, and bask in stillness, is an option. Add smells of cooking to the warm room and you’re sure to perk up a bit.
That’s what we did Saturday night. We gathered at a friend’s for my first raclette party. We didn’t sit around the fireplace though, we stayed put at the table, where the raclette—a type of Swiss cookery, much like a mini-grill—was our hearth.
Apparently raclette, French for “to scrape,” is a long-time winter tradition in Switzerland, maybe even more popular than fondue. Raclette is also a type of cheese—a favorite of mine—semi-soft and pungent. Delicious the older and riper it gets (I get mine, made with raw milk, at Trader Joe’s). (more…)
West Chester Winter Market Days
By Margaret Gilmour
Saturday was a balmy 45 degrees, which made the very first West Chester Winter Market even better. Forget the gloves and the hat: I headed out with my family in a warm coat unzipped a bit, and my bundle of canvas bags swinging alongside of me.
I knew to get to the market before 10:00 a.m., just before the vendors finished spreading out their goods to offer up everything for sale. Because when the bounty isn’t so plentiful, and the selections limited, winter market is all about quickly sizing up who’s selling what, and making menus up as you go along.
Here, like at the Phoenxville Winter Market, you need to make your purchases first (while supplies last), then hang out and visit with locals later.
I was happy to see that even in January the market had many of the loyal farmers and artisans that show up every Saturday during the growing season. What made me even happier was seeing one of my favorites—-Windy Acres Produce—selling chemical-free arugula picked Friday morning, bags of spring mix, radishes, mini-carrots and a mountain of sweet potatoes.
Just across from their table Oley Valley Mushrooms set out a showy display of exotic mushrooms with the smoky grey oyster mushrooms casting a pearly center stage.
winter market is all about quickly sizing up who’s selling what, and making menus up as you go along
Right there I decided dinner would be roasted mushroom and leek soup. My favorite recipe comes from Stonewall Kitchen’s Harvest, my well-read, favorite eat-in-season cookbook.
So owner Angela Evans bagged one and half pounds of the organically grown crimini mushrooms for me as she explained how to cook the white and wavy lion’s mane mushroom (Hericium erinaceus)—also called pom pom or bear’s head.
I’ve never tried the lion’s mane, but Angela says to sauté them, unwashed, in a little butter, and that they taste a lot like lobster. Perhaps I’ll give them a try another time. (more…)
Flickerwood Wine Cellars State Street Tasting Room
By Roger Morris, Guest Contributor
Over the past decade, I’ve gotten used to driving out to the tasting rooms at the 10 or so local wineries, but, more recently, these wineries have been taking their wines to pour where people work and shop – just as farmers bring their fruits and vegetables to produce markets in our towns and cities.
Chaddsford Winery’s vineyard is in Chadds Ford, for example, but has long had a popular outlet at Peddler’s Village in Bucks County. It’s the same with Paradocx Vineyard: they grow their grapes in Landenberg, and have a tasting room next to Starbucks in the Longwood shopping center on Route 1, and Kreutz Creek Vineyard is located in West Grove yet offer a tasting location in downtown West Chester.
In Flickerwood Wine Cellars case, its winery is in Kane–upstate Pennsylvania–where Ron and Sue Zampogna built it 10 years ago after Ron retired from the U.S. Forest Service.
“We had winery customers who live in this region,” Tammy Liberato, the Zampogna’s daughter, tells me from behind the tasting bar when I drop by, “and my sister Julie and I both live in Chester County, so we opened this tasting room in November, 2008. We had a very good first year.”
The tasting room is large and comfortable with seating at the bar or at tables and chairs for groups. Paintings by local abstract artist Jason Smith of West Grove hang in exhibition around the room. Live music is frequently played on weekends, and Flickerwood encourages people to bring their own food (BYOF) to enjoy with a glass or two. Of course, wine is sold by the bottle and case for those who want to take some home.
Flickerwood is a winery that, in the true tradition of most upstate wineries, tries to produce a wine for every taste: red and white, dry and sweet, blushes and fruit wines such as cranberry and blueberry. At any one time, there might be almost 30 different wines to sample if one were to try them all. A tasting of six wines costs $6, wines by the glass generally sell for $6, as well, and bottles are between $12 and $20. The tasting room opens at noon, Wednesday through Sunday,
To make things simpler, Tammy explains, there is a menu of six pre-arranged tasting flights in case you don’t want to assemble your own. “I like sweet wines, so in my flight, all the wines are sweet,” she says pointing to a heading called “Tammy’s Tasting,” which includes Cayuga Kiss, white Niagara, pink Catawba and Red Raspberry.
I decide to put together my own flight of dry wines–three whites and three reds–and Tammy gets the glass and bottles ready.
I start with the Chardonnay, which is quite pleasant with tropical fruits, a hint of cocoanut and a little earthiness. The Pinot Grigio has a tad of residual sugar, but is nice and fruity with good clearing acidity. The Gewurztraminer has a typical fruit oiliness with lots of spice and citrus notes. (more…)
Cold? Warm Up With a Parlour Game
By Margaret Gilmour
It’s darn right cold outside. But you don’t need me to tell you that.
You see the frost on the windows, and you’re running mitten-clad from your home to your car to your destination so you can avoid the cold too.
While I’ll get outside in almost any weather because even in rain, or cold wind, a little fresh air and a brisk walk always makes me feel better, staying inside at night appeals to me most in the winter-time.
What interests me even more, is hanging out with friends or family with the TV off and a deck of cards in hand. I’d even be up for a game of Charades.
It could be argued that the Victorians knew how to have the most fun huddled around their fireplaces at night, even without electricity, even with the wind howling as it did last week around here. They’d stoke the fire, layer themselves in woolen blankets and light some candles.
Then they’d play parlour games late into the evening. Parlour games are basically games played indoors, and in 19th-century many British and American middle and upper class families took to playing these games in their parlour.
Some of the games involved wit and logic, while others could get pretty physical, like Blind-Man’s Bluff, which is an out-of-water version of Marco-Polo.
Eventually boxed parlour games became popular (20s and 60s) before TV, movies and radio took over as the preferred way to unwind. But in Britain, it’s still the tradition to play parlour games on Christmas eve.
Here are some that sound interesting and might be worth a try. After all, according to Accuweather, the cold’s here to stay awhile. In fact, we’re part of the widest spread deep freeze our nation has experienced since 1985, and we may be in for the coldest winter in 25 years.
I say light the fire, invite in a couple friends and try your skills at one of these:
Shadow Buff
Hang a sheet across the room, and place a single candle on a table behind it. Turn out the lights.
Choose a person to sit in front of the sheet.
Everyone else goes between the sheet and the candle as the player sitting in front tries to identify each of them. “Shadows” try and disguise themselves any way they can, but once you’re indentified, you are out.
Reverend Crawley’s game
You’ll need at least seven to eight players, it’s even better with more.
Everyone stands in a circle and links hands, but not with the person on either side of you, and not both hands with the same person.
The group turns into a huge human knot, and all of you must get untied without breaking the linked-hands.
So, you step over each other, climb through openings, whatever you need to do, but you mustn’t let go of the hands you hold.
The outcome will surprise you.
Blind Man’s Bluff (or Blind man’s Buff)
A spacious area works best, but a small room can make it more interesting.
One person is blind-folded and attempts to either touch another to get them out, or touch the face of someone they tag to guess the identity.
Unlike Marco Polo, you don’t need to say a word or answer anyone, which could make this even more fun when played in total silence, or with loud music so the person who is “it” can’t hear others as they move about.
(In the UK and Ireland the game is referred to as Blind Man’s Buff, “buff” meaning a small push.)
The Minister’s Cat
All players sit in a circle.
The first player takes a stab at describing the minister’s cat with an adjective that begins with the letter “A”: The minister’s cat is adorable.
The next player then does the same, either using an “A” adjective, or moves on to a “B” descriptor. (The group decide which way they want to play before starting.)
The game continues for each letter of the alphabet. A player is out when they can’t name an adjective, or if they repeat one already used.
To keep the pace going, players can clap or stomp in unison to keep a rhythm going, so if a player can’t name an adjective in keeping with the group’s pace, they’re out. (more…)
Free-range, Organic Chicken Giveaway
By Margaret Gilmour
We’d like to thank all of our loyal readers, subscribers, Facebook fans and visitors who stop in once-in-awhile to check out what’s happening on Chester County Dwell, for your support during 2009—our first year online—with a Happy Anniversary thank you and giveaway for locals only.
Thanks to the generous donation and support of Inverbrook Farm, where Claire Murray sells chemical-free produce to an ever-growing crowd of CSA members and Kennett Square Farmers’ Market goers, and where pastured poultry and eggs are also available at the farm, we are giving away a rather large, free-range, organic chicken. This tasty bird is frozen so you may enjoy it when the mood hits. Think: pot pie, chicken and rice soup or oven-roasted.
Here’s How to Win:
Leave a comment on this post. A simple “Hello” will do.
Here’s How to Enter:
Leave your contact information: Name (first name only is fine if that suits you) + a valid e-mail address (which will is not seen by others).
We will contact the winner by email. The contest is open Tuesday, January 5, 2010, until Thursday, January 7th at 1:00 p.m. Any entries received after that time will not be accepted.
Winner will be announced the week of January 11, 2010. Only one entry per person. Multiple entries will be discarded. Contest open only to U.S. residents with a U.S. mailing address. Winner will be selected using Random.org, notified by e-mail, and must pick up their prize at Inverbrook Farm.
10 Most-Viewed, 5 Most-Loved Posts for 2009
It’s been a great first year here at Chester County Dwell, and our top most-viewed and most-commented on stories and blogs underscores the best of simple living in 2009, and the people and places that give Chester County its energy.
As we move into 2010, ccdwell will continue to bring you blogs about locals making a difference, stories that inspire a simplified life style, and original images that you’ll find only on our site.
Many thanks to our guest contributors and photographers for helping make ccdwell one-of-kind, local inspiration. And to our advertisers and sponsors that help keep us going.
We wish all of you a Happy and Healthy New Year!
(Did your favorite post make it on our list?)
With 131 posts and 292 comments—the lists begin with the posts that got the most hits, with number one being the All-Natural Swimming Pool story.
TOP 10 MOST VIEW POSTS:
So Cool: An All-Natural Swimming Pool
Local Breweries Crafting Eco-Friendly Pints
Sculpting out a Woodland Garden
Spaces (category got most hits)
Michael Petrie’s Handmade Garden
Taste of the local: Phoenixville Winter Market
5 MOST LOVED (according to comments):
So Cool: An All-Natural Swimming Pool
Galer Estate Vineyard and Winery
A Gift For You! (Or A Gift To Give)
RUNNERS UP, MOST VIEWED:
A Hillside Garden Adds to Outdoor Living
Books that Inspire Simple Living
Storm King Wall Weaving Through the Landscape
A Portrait of our Farmers: Inverbrook Farm
Buckley’s Has a Green Roof (Your Pergola Could Too)
A Portrait of our Farmers: Sunnygirl Farm
A Portrait of our Farmers: Pete’s Produce Farm
The Restoration of a 19th-Century Barn
Mt. Cuba Center, Inc.: Nurturing Native Plants
Nick Farrell: Bringing in the Bistro’s Bounty
Happy Holidays (A Gingerbread Tradition)
By Leslie Kedash
Although the historical record is vague, the gingerbread house is thought to have originated in Germany after the Brothers Grimm published (1812) their version of an old fairy tale and entitled it Hansel & Gretel. Although the story line is a bit grimm, with abandonment, capture and the possibility of a witch eating children as the general themes, the gingerbread house lives today as a sweet treat to be constructed for the holidays.
We have a 14 year tradition of constructing at least one (and one year eight!) house to give as gifts and display at home. We make them in November and their construction brings a sweet treat with which to start the holiday season. (much of the available candy doesn’t actually make it onto the house)
This year, we decided to forgo the sugar infusion and constructed the house from gingerbread and various greens, berries and flower pods from around the property. The project offers a chance to slow down and center before the holiday madness erupts in all of its maniacal glory.
Wishing you a Happy Holiday.
Santa Claus
By Margaret Gilmour
I wrote this essay several years ago after the event I describe occurred one afternoon in downtown Kennett Square. Happy Holidays!
—-
I see his red jacket first.
It’s after I squeeze my car between two others on the quiet side street, and pull too close to a large tree that ends up blocking the back passenger door. But I see no other alternative parking spots.
In the back seat, my four-year-old son Elijah sits peering through the window at me. Pressed for time, I grab my canvas sack and wedge the entire top half of my body through the car door to unbuckle Elijah and free him from the straps before slipping and slamming backward into the tree trunk.
Grasping a low branch, I am able to hold on long enough to regain my balance so I won’t fall to the wet, slushy ground.
I know I really need to slow down.
The Holiday is a few weeks away, but I confess, I am not ready for it. I have a lot more running around to do. I put my bag down and siphon Elijah from the back seat. Once the two of us are secured to the well-groomed sidewalk, I kneel down to zipper Elijah’s jacket and pull his hood over his head. He smiles up at me, “It’s so cold, Mama!” he says, shivering. His round cheeks turn bright cherub-red. I slip mittens over his hands.
From this angle, I can see the back of someone wearing a red jacket. He/She is bending over. Then I see the black boots. Before long, I think, we’ll all be racing towards our destination.
It is cold and dreary, the streets and sidewalk almost abandoned. Quiet envelops us. “We’re going to be late,” I say to my small son. “Let’s go.”
Ready to proceed, I take Elijah’s mittened-hand and we circle around to face the stranger stepping onto the sidewalk.
“Santa Claus!” Elijah blurts out. “It’s Santa Claus!”
And it is.
Standing directly in front of us cloaked in his red suit, white beard and black boots, is Santa Claus.
“Well, Well!” Santa says to Elijah, whose smile spreads across his face wide and bright as the half moon hanging in last’s sky. “Look how much you’ve grown since last year!” Santa straightens his wire-framed glasses that sit crooked on the edge of his nose.
I look at my watch. We are already late. Then as I witness Elijah’s eyes grow wider, I begin to calm down. We can be a little late, I think.
“Let me guess,” Santa says to Elijah as he bends down into my son’s face. “You’re…what? Four-years-old now?”
Elijah nods: Yes! He is almost dancing in his shoes.
Santa straightens up. “Have you been a good boy…err, uhh..?” He is searching for my son’s name.
“Elijah,” I say. I am more relaxed now. This is quite a show.
“YES! That’s it!” Santa says. He throws his arms in the air and grabs hold of his paunch. “Ho! Ho! Ho! Elijah! How could I forget?” His belly shakes as he laughs.
Elijah keeps smiling, his whole body quaking with excitement.
“Yes, Santa!” Elijah says, nodding his head furiously. “I have been a really good boy!” He pushes his mop of hair away from his eyes with his wet mitten.
“I thought so, Elijah,” Santa says. “I had no doubt in my mind.”
“It’s so good to see you, Santa,” I say. My turn to find out a bit about Santa. “Where are you heading?”
Heck, we are already so late. Maybe we’d miss the swim lesson too. This is an experience we’ll never forget. I think at this point my smile is almost as big as Elijah’s.
“Just visiting some children in church group today,” Santa says to me before looking back at Elijah. He is in no hurry at all. He knows he is making memories here.
I shift my sack from one arm to the next.
“So,” Santa says to Elijah as he heaves his heavy black belt back onto his round tummy. “What is it this year? Trains? Books? What do you want me to bring you?”
Elijah doesn’t need to think long. “Presents!” he says, and we keep watching this jolly fellow standing in front of us.
If Santa offers a ride on his sleigh, I decide to accept. I want be more like this cheery fellow standing before me.
Nothing is more important at that moment than my spellbound son. Santa doesn’t have an agenda. He is enjoying the moment and the unexpected interlude that is making the little boy at his feet so happy. And so am I.
After awhile, Santa tells Elijah he needs to visit some school children who are waiting for him. Still totally absorbed, Elijah waves goodbye as Santa calls out “Merry Christmas!”
Elijah and I walk together hand-in-hand toward town. “Bye, Santa!” he says after Santa disappears into a building. Then, an after-thought: “Merry Christmas!”
But Santa is already gone.
Elijah stops to kick the snow with his boots as I watch. Then we head toward a shop a block away where we sip some hot chocolate topped with sweet whipped cream. We dip our cookies in the warm cocoa and stick our fingertips in the fluffy topping before licking them clean.
I have no idea what time it is when we got up to go. Actually, I don’t really care.
Chester County Cut-Your-Own Tree Farms (+ why buy a real tree)
By Margaret Gilmour
There are lots of reasons to purchase a living or cut tree over a fake one. Here are just a few:
• Christmas trees are grown on farms just like any crop, making them a renewable resource that gets planted each year
• Tree farms help to stabilize the soil and provide habitat for wildlife
• Growing evergreens can help save open space by planting them in soil not suitable for other crops
• The trees are said to take in about 30 to 400 pounds of CO2 annually, which helps to reduce air pollution (the trees absorb carbon dioxide and other gasses while emitting fresh oxygen in return)
• Christmas trees recyclable and make great mulch: get out the chipper/shredder and use the tree mulch in the spring, or add the mix to your compost pile
• Nationally, trees are reused for dune restoration, creating boiler fuel and to help revive a coastline
• They don’t shed lead-based dust found in some artificial trees
• You’re buying a local product, while many fake trees are manufactured in, and shipped from, China
• When recycled, real trees won’t add to a landfill the way a worn-out artificial ones will
• Fake trees are made from made from PVC, a non-renewable, petroleum-based plastic, and a most environmentally-unfriendly product. Scary thought: In 2006, about 13 million fake plastic trees were shipped to the U.S. from China
What about an organic tree?
If you want an org
anic tree, one grown with minimal use of chemicals—there are just a couple organic tree farms in Pennsylvania.I discovered one in Chester County, and one Media, Delaware County. You can also check out Green Promise, the site has a list of organic trees found throughout Pennsylvania. And remember, an organic tree often comes organically-shaped…deer may have nibbled some, but I think this just adds to the tree’s personality.
So, bundle up this weekend, take your family or a friend or two, and head out to a Christmas tree farm. Some serve cider, or host a winter wagon ride, and one even has live reindeer. Many have live trees you can plant in your yard after the Holiday. And don’t forget, local nurseries have live trees too.
Here’s where you can go:
Adams Christmas Trees (All trees organically grown)
260 Hopewell Road, Elverson, PA
you choose, you cut wreaths, trees baled, saws provided
610-469-9658 or email: irvadams@ptd.net
Saturday and Sunday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Cash, Check
235 Pusey Mill Road, Cochranville, PA
you choose, you cut,
precut trees, wreaths, garlands, Christmas decorations, trees baled, saws provided, gift shop
610-358-4933 or email: billclark2001@hotmail.com
Friday, Saturday and Sunday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Cash, Check, Visa/MasterCard
688 Strickersville Road, Landenberg, PA
you choose, you cut
precut trees, wreaths, tree shaking provided, trees baled, saws provided, winter hay rides
484-798-8413
Saturday and Sunday, 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Monday, Wednesday and Friday, noon to 4:00 p.m.
Cash, Check
1741 Flint Hill Road, Landenberg, PA
you choose, you cut
precut trees, living trees, wreaths, boughs, garlands, live reindeer, Christmas decorations, tree shaking provided, trees baled, saws provided, winter wagon rides
610-274-8560 or email: info@schmidtschristmastreefarm.com
Monday to Friday, 12:00 p.m to 5:00 p.m
Saturday and Sunday, 8:00 a.m to 5:00 pm
Cash, Check, Visa/MasterCard.
1480 Hall Road, West Chester
you choose, you cut
precut trees, living trees, trees tied, tree shaking provided, trees baled, winter hay rides, winter wagon rides
610-269-1034/ 610-269-9016 or email: sales@tricolortree.com
Friday, Saturday, Sunday 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. or til Dark
Cash, only
1049 Bartlett Lane, Chester Springs, PA
you choose, you cut
precut trees, wreaths, boughs, garlands, Santa appearances, trees baled, saws provided, winter hay rides, gift shop, snacks and refreshment stand, restrooms, farm animals
610-469-9299 or email: adarahfarm@aol.com
Monday to Friday, 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Saturday, Sunday 8:00 a.mm to 5:00 pm.
Cash, Check
Delaware County
Indian Orchards (All trees organically grown)
24 Copes Lane, Media
610-565-8387
Call for availability
Open Monday: 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., Tuesday: closed, Wednesday to Sat: 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m, Sunday: 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Linvilla Orchards, 137 W. Knowlton Road, Media , PA
you choose, you cut, precut trees, living trees, wreaths and boughs, Mistletoe, Santa appearances, Christmas decorations, saws provided, trees bagged, trees tied, picnic area, face painting, pony rides, petting zoo
610-876-8796 or email: apples@linvilla.com
Sources: mnn.com, pickyourownchristmastree,org. greenpromise.com
Chester County Books and Music: Best Books 2009
By Margaret Gilmour
Was 2009 a good year for books? Well, glancing at the list below, and the books I’ve gone through, I’d say it was a great year for reading.
We asked Chester County Book & Music Company’s (CCBMC) Kathy Simoneaux and her staff for their 2009 choice selections. The list below is a combination of their favorites, along with books that sold well: “In other words,” Kathy says, “we loved them and our customers did too!”
The list appears in no particular order, which means you’ll need to scan through all the titles. This is usually a good thing, as you may just discover an interesting book you would have skipped over had it been in a particular category.
I’m just about to finish Olive Kitterage by Elizabeth Strout, a collection of linked tales told by various members of a Maine community. While a bit unsettling, I can’t put it down, and look forward to escaping each night to read a new chapter while buried under my thick comforter.
Remember, books make great gifts for readers of all ages. You can purchase any from the list at CCBMC, or right here on our site through IndieBound.
What are you reading?
Shop Indie Bookstores
Little Bee: A Novel By Chris Cleave
Presents a tale of a precarious friendship between an illegal Nigerian refugee and a recent widow from suburban London, a story told from the alternating and disparate perspectives of both women. A special story, with humor and horror.
Shop Indie Bookstores
A Reliable Wife: A Novel By Robert Goolrick
Ralph Truitt, a wealthy businessman with a troubled past who lives in a remote nineteenth-century Wisconsin town, has advertised for a reliable wife; and his ad is answered by Catherine Land, a woman who makes every effort to hide her own dark secrets.
Shop Indie Bookstores
The Lost City of Z: A Tale of Deadly Obsession in the Amazon By David Grann
Interweaves the story of British explorer Percy Fawcett, who vanished during a 1925 expedition into the Amazon, with the author’s own quest to uncover the mysteries surrounding Fawcett’s final journey and the secrets of what lies deep in the Amazon jungle.
Shop Indie Bookstores
The Little Giant of Aberdeen County: A Novel By Tiffany Baker
Growing rapidly and unusually large in her small-minded New York community, part-witch Truly comes of age in the shadow of her attractive older sister, whose young son comes into her care unexpectedly, forcing Truly to live with a bullying brother-in-law.
Shop Indie Bookstores
The Dark Horse: A Walter Longmire Mystery By Craig Johnson
Believing that confessed murderer Mary Barsad is not guilty of shooting her husband in the head after he set fire to their barn and killed her horses, Sheriff Walt Longmire goes undercover as an insurance investigator and discovers an unfriendly town that has something to hide.
Shop Indie Bookstores
The Monuments Men: Allied Heroes, Nazi Thieves, and the Greatest Treasure Hunt in History By Robert M. Edsel
Traces the lesser-known effort by an Allied division to find and secure European art that had been looted by the Nazis, outlining how they risked their lives and raced against time with limited supplies and scraps of information.
Shop Indie Bookstores
A Happy Marriage By Rafael Iyglesias
A tale inspired by the author’s marriage to his late wife alternates between the first weeks of a young couple’s acquaintance and the bittersweet final weeks before the wife’s death and follows their recollections of highs and lows that marked their middle years. By the screenwriter of Fearless.
Shop Indie Bookstores
The American Civil War: A Military History By John Keegan
Analyzes many puzzling aspects of the Civil War, from its mismatched sides to the absence of decisive outcomes for dozens of skirmishes, and offers insight into the war’s psychology, ideology, and economics while discussing the pivotal roles of leadership and geography.
(more…)
Winter Harvest Still Available
By Margaret Gilmour
I’m not crazy about the super-cold weather.
Fireplaces, mittens and warm boots help me get through the colder months (along with hot cider).
And there’s another guaranteed pick-me-up: A visit to one of the winter markets, where you can bundle up and fill your sack with local goods all season long.
Last year I bought a plentiful supply of carrots and potatoes from the Phoenixville Winter Market, along with Birchrun Blue Cheese (absolutely one of my favorites). The root vegetables remained fresh up until the last frost (the blue cheese, though—lasted about a week. Too good to save).
This year we have more options to buy fresh, local food and artisan goods. Especially in December, when it feels good to spread Holiday cheer as you shop, and by chance, bump into a neighbor or two.
Here’s where to go:
Lancaster Farm Fresh’s 4 Season Harvest Program:
Inverbrook Farm is now a drop-off site for Lancaster Farm Fresh’s, 4- Season Harvest Program.
Lancaster farm Fresh is a local farmer-run, organic growers cooperative serving all of Eastern Pennsylvania, New York City, and most of the tri-state area to connect the farmer and the customer.
The drop-off begins Tuesday, November 17th and continues each Tuesday at least through Christmas. After that, it all depends on the weather: snow problems or very, very cold temperatures can mess up the delivery.
There’s no limit to how many 4-Season Harvest members can join.
Sign up through Lancaster Farm Fresh. Preorder online before pick up. Also, at Inverbrook are fresh eggs, frozen chickens and, as long as they continue to grow—delicious greens.
Pick up: Tuesdays, from 8:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. from the farm.
(Food and Artists)
Next Market dates: December, 12 & 19, 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
Check out their calendar for a list of vendors: Click here
Phoenixville Winter Markets
2nd & 4th Saturdays, January through April:
10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.
Bridge St. & Taylor Alley
Behind Family Dollar, Phoenixville, PA
Plenty of goods available:
3rd Saturday of every month from December through April.
Next Market date: December 19, 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Corner of Church and Chestnut Streets
A Gift For You! (Or A Gift To Give)
Win a $25 gift certificate—just leave a comment
Kimberton Whole Foods
Giveaway
Win a $25 Gift Card from Kimberton Whole Foods, where you can give useful gifts, not wasteful ones.
Choose from hundreds of local products including:
LOCALLY ROASTED coffee, Local ART, fair trade items, NATURAL CANDLES, organic clothing, responsible TOYS, gourmet cheeses and breads, PURE BODY care, local PRODUCE
Everything you need for thoughtful gifting and celebrating.
Here’s How to Win:
Leave a comment on this post either telling us your what you like best about Chester County Dwell, or the name of your favorite blog or article or featured recipe. Check the archive button at the right, there’s been lots to read over the past year.
To enter, leave your contact information: Name (first name only is fine if that suits you) + a valid e-mail address (which is not seen by others). We will contact the winner by email.
The contest is open until midnight, Monday, November 30, 2009. Any entries received after that time will not be accepted.
Only one entry per person. Multiple entries will be discarded. Contest open only to U.S. residents with a U.S. mailing address.
Winner will be selected using Random.org and notified by e-mail the week of November 30, 2009. Winner will claim their prize by contacting Kimberton Whole Foods.
Special thanks to Kimberton Whole Foods for their generous support of ccdwell.
Gift Ideas For the Season
By Margaret Gilmour
Spurred on by the importance of buying local, and by a region that offers unlimited opportunities to take home goods that are distinctly Chester County, we’ve compiled a gift-giving list for you.
Our ideas come from walking about the area, peering into shop windows, or taste-testing—then hand-selecting— a treat to take on home to our family.
And really, it doesn’t matter how much you spend, a well-thought out, token of appreciation, wrapped in a bow made of yarn, topped with a sprig of lavender from your garden, will put a smile on anyone’s face.
We think it’s the thought that matters, so we try to keep it simple, make it personal, and have fun dropping by area shops. (Diverting into an eatery for a bite or liquid refreshment while shopping is always recommended.)
Happy Holidays!
If you live near Kennett Square, you know how easy it is to park and walk far enough to grab take-out, or hang out for fresh, tasty fare.
At Talula’s Table you can make a gift basket of homemade sauces and jams, or pack it with all sorts of inviting goods from local sources. How about slipping into the Paper Market for some eco-shoes, or over to Chansonette for a scented orchid? As a matter of fact, we shouted out our love for this historic town in February. Read about here.
West Chester is just as easy to access as any Chester County town, and you can plan a full day of browsing through local boutique shops to put together a small basket or reusable eco-bag brimming with:
• A bottle of Super Stress Complex from My Great Pumpkin, the ultimate stress supplement, providing optimal levels of the B vitamins and vitamin C.;
• a bar of all-natural oatmeal soap; and
• a bag of sprouted wheat.
Chocolate lovers melt over Master Chocolatier Christopher Curtin’s mouth-watering edibles at Éclat Chocolate. Pick up a box of truffles or a handful of chocolate dipping straws and a bag of cocoa for an indulgence all its own, or to top off any gift basket.
At Acorn Cottage Style handmade lace and linens, and creative home furnishings like wooden candle sticks or glass coasters can brighten any space. (Web site under construction, call 610.430.3316.)
When you’re out in Downingtown, and thirsty for ideas, quench the hunger with a growler from Victory Brewing Company filled with a favorite beer style (check out their growler covers too), and don’t forget Sly Fox Brewery in Phoenixville—they sell bottle-conditioned beers and ales in a variety of flavors and styles.
A bottle of local wine festooned with paper ribbons or a dried grapevine makes merry too: Try Paradox Vineyard’s Haywagon Chardonnay—unlike most U.S.-made Chardonnays, this one drops the buttery and the oak for a flavor only the tiny terroir in Landenberg could produce. Then there’s ROOT, an all-organic spirit with zero hint of syrupy sweet. One sniff of this potent drink and you’ll swear it’s root beer. One sip and you’ll know it’s not.
Since there are many ways to satisfy a craving, how about indulging in a basket made up of locally roasted coffee, gourmet cheeses and breads from Kimberton Whole Foods in Kimberton (there are four locations)? KWF also has local art, fair trade items, natural candles and organic t-shorts.
Local WINE, fresh BEER, books, handcrafted chocolates, BIRDHOUSES, garden accessories, glass BEADS, homemade sauces and JAMS, local ART, antique SILVER, eco-SHOES, woven baskets, ORGANIC t-shirts
And everyone likes a good book, so don’t forget to drop in Chester County Books and Music in West Chester, where the new local cookbook, Brandywine Book of Food is also for sale. For more great book ideas, check out our reading list: We are now affiliated with IndieBound, a site that links you directly to an independent bookstore nearest you.
Why not nourish a nature lover’s soul while also feeding the birds or offering them shelter with a bird feeder or bird house from a local nursery, like R-P Nursery in Kennett Square? Handmade Gardens in Downingtown has them too, along with a wide assortment of creative garden accessories sure to perk up any landscape, even in the wintertime when we seem to need it most.
If you like hand-blown glass, you should check out Nine Iron Studios in West Grove, they’re hosting an open house and studio sale in December where local artist Michael Schunke sells one-of-a-kind, colorful glass objects.
Jewelry lovers and beadmakers would marvel at the contemporary glass beads and assortment of turquoise and silver available at Blue Santa Beads in Media where a small bag-full of colorful jewels will inspire any want-to-be jewelry designer. (Web site under construction, call 610.892.2740.)
Silver sparkles all year long. So will an antique or sterling silver wine jug, vase or simple centerpiece from Jonathan & J. William Inslee’s silver shop in Chadds Ford. Why not fill a small silver bowl with dried flowers or mini-pinecones and present it with a natural fiber bow?
Still can’t decide? A gift certificate to any of the shops we’ve mentioned makes giving easy too.
There are so many places to visit for local gifts that we can’t possibly name them all.
Hopefully, we’ve inspired you to check out some of area spots we’ve mentioned, or neighboring shops along the way.
Where will you go first?
COME BACK FRIDAY FOR A KIMBERTON WHOLE FOODS GIVEAWAY!
5 Reasons Why You Should Buy Local
By Margaret Gilmour
Did you know that locally owned businesses generate 70-percent more economic impact per square foot to our community than chain stores?
That’s a big percentage. The number comes from numerous studies on retail economics.
While we know that buying locally isn’t always possible, we also know that our region offers many opportunities to take home goods that are distinctly Chester County.
When you purchase a bottle of local wine, for example, or a jar of homemade jam or honey, you are capturing a piece of our community’s character that’s as individual as the next county 100-miles down the road. It’s the same with a painting created here, or a mug thrown by a local potter: that one-of-a-kind piece of art carries with it not only the spirit of its creator, but also the essence of our region.
In addition, every time you step into a shop, gallery or local eatery that you have visited before, you spread some of your own Holiday cheer. You’re showing your support while taking the time to say hello, or cast a smile, to community members you’ve come to know and rely on.
Before you get started on your Holiday shopping this season, here are just five reasons why you should buy local first:
And come back tomorrow for a whole list of gift-giving ideas from local sources we put together just for you.
1. Keep the money in Chester County
For every $100 spent at a locally owned business, $45 stays in the local economy, as opposed to spending the same amount at a national chain or franchise where only $14 remains in the community.
2. Non-Profit Organizations Receive More Support
Studies show that non-profit organizations receive more––an average 250% more––support from smaller business owners than they do from large businesses. That’s because independent businesses are owned by locals committed to investing in Chester County’s future.
3. Help the Environment
Local businesses make more local purchases, reducing the energy required for transporting goods from its origin. Also, many businesses set up shop in small towns so you can park and walk to relieve traffic congestion and energy consumption (and grab some fresh air and exercise while you’re at it).
4. More jobs and created
Buying locally creates jobs, and in some instances, better wages and benefits while expanding the region’s tax base.
5. It’s all about Community
When you purchase a handmade item, you are taking with you a homegrown taste of our region unique to Chester County.
Sources: The Newrules.org (economic impact study), Localfirst.com and sustainableconnections.org
