Chester County Press Proudly Presents...
2 8 Annual th
F E S T F E S T
June 29, 2019
6:00pm - 11:00pm Nottingham County Park
BROUGHT TO YOU BY Chester County Board of Commissioners, Chester County Facilities & Parks, Founding Sponsor
Herr Foods, Inc. & Presenting Sponsor Jeff D’Ambrosio Chevrolet
Chester County hosts 28th annual Freedom Fest at Nottingham County Park
The Chester County Department of Facilities and Parks, the Chester County Board of Commissioners, Herr Foods, and Jeff D’Ambrosio Chevrolet will present the annual Freedom Fest in Nottingham County Park on Saturday, June 29, from 6 to 11 p.m. The rain date is Sunday, June 30. This will be the final Freedom Fest event. The following is a letter from the organizers:
Dear community friends,
The Chester County Department of Facilities and Parks and The Chester County Commissioners, along with our friends at Herr Foods, Inc., announce that this summer, on June 29, we will hold the final Freedom Fest show. This event has been a huge success for 27 years, and for various reasons (and like many other great things in life), its time has come.
We very much look forward to this year’s show, which gives us the opportunity to thank the many support people who have made Freedom Fest a safe, family celebration for all these years. May it always be a wonderful memory. We are most grateful to everyone at Herr Foods, Inc., D’Ambrosio, West Nottingham Township Emergency Services Management, Oxford Fire Company, park staff and the countless community organizations that support this event.
Sincerely,
Chester County Commissioners
Chester County Department of Facilities and Parks
Herr Foods Inc.
D’Ambrosio
The festive event features food vendors, activities for the whole family, live music and a dazzling fireworks display. There is no admission fee, and parking is free at the park and Herr’s Corporate Center. Parking gates open at 6 p.m.
In case of inclement weather, Freedom Fest may be postponed to Sunday, June 30. Vouchers will be distributed at both parking locations for re-admittance on the rain date only.
The Freedom Fest schedule is:
6 to 9 p.m.
Sample snacks from Herr Foods and enjoy festival-style foods from food vendors. You are welcome to bring a picnic of your own, but please be advised for security purposes, all coolers, bags and similar items are subject to being searched.
7:15 p.m.
Performing on stage this year will be two bands, Angelee and Friends (www. angeleemusic.com), and Oxford band Half Past Seven (www.halfpast7band.com).
9:15 p.m.
Acknowledgements and a welcome from county officials.
9:30 p.m.
Celebrate Independence Day with an amazing, 30-minute show of dazzling fireworks and ground displays set to music. The grand finale incorporates the traditional raising of the American flag above the fields of Nottingham County Park.
Amenities
Field seating is available for the entertainment and fireworks. Early arrival is encouraged, as well as blankets and lawn chairs. No canopies or pets permitted. Restrooms and hand wash stations are adjacent to the event field. An ATM will be available. Smoking is permitted in designated areas only. Pets and canopies are not permitted in the Freedom Fest viewing field. Alcohol is strictly prohibited. Ignited materials, including sparklers, are prohibited.
Fees
Free shuttle bus service is available to and from the Herr’s Corporate Center beginning at 6 p.m. Walk-in admission is free.
Parking
Parking is available at Nottingham County Park and Herr Foods, Inc. Both are located off the Route 272 Exit of U.S. Route 1 in West Nottingham Township. From this intersection, signs are posted to direct you to the two available parking areas. Choose your parking area based on the number and ages of people in your party, and the amount of gear you are managing:
Area 1: General Parking – Enter from Cemetery Road. Parking is on the west side of the park. A brief walk (approximately half a mile) through the park leads to the event field. This is the best option for families with strollers. When the fireworks end, please return directly to your vehicle and exit. The park will be illuminated from
Event Times
(approximate)
6:00 PM
Parking Gates Open
6:00 – 9:00 PM
Vendors, Amusements
7:15 PM
Main Stage Concert
9:20 PM
Acknowledgements of Sponsors
9:30 PM
Firework Display
the event field to the parking area. There is no shuttle service from this location.
Area 2: Herr’s Corporate Center – Shuttle buses run from 6 to 9 p.m. (or until the lot is full). Located approximately one mile from the park. From this area, shuttle buses operate from 6 to 9 p.m. The last bus will leave Herr’s no later than 9 p.m. Return service will begin immediately following the conclusion of the fireworks. A bus with handicap accessibility is available. Strollers and pets are not permitted on shuttle buses. Please adhere to the drivers’ and Sheriff Deputies’ instructions for boarding and exiting buses.
Note: Upon exiting, you may experience a prolonged wait to catch a shuttle back to the parking areas. Please be patient. You do not need to return on the same bus you rode from the parking area.
Person with Disability Parking: Available at both locations. Please inform parking personnel of your situation.
For Both Areas:
Parking gates open at 6 p.m.
There is no vehicle access to the event field to drop off anything before entering parking areas.
Parking vouchers will be distributed at both locations.
All roads to Freedom Fest close by 9 p.m.! Plan to arrive early!
Pets and strollers are not permitted on the shuttle buses. There is no shuttle service available from the park’s lot to the event field; the walk is approximately half a mile.
Freedom Fest traditionally attracts 8,000 to 10,000 visitors, so leave plenty of time for travel and expect delays upon exiting. In cooperation with West Nottingham Township officials, parking plans and road restrictions will be in effect.
Old Baltimore Pike and Park Road between Herr Drive and Cemetery Road close to the public at 3 p.m. Access to the Nottingham County Park event parking area is via Cemetery Road. Upon exiting, Cemetery Road between Glen Roy Road and Park Road will be one-way until midnight.
ARRIVING: At 3 p.m., vehicle traffic becomes one-way from the intersection of Herr Drive/Old Baltimore Pike to the intersection of Park and Cemetery roads. As of 5 p.m., this section is closed to all vehicle traffic except event shuttle buses.
EXITING: When exiting Herr’s, you will be directed to Route 272 via Herr Drive. Exiting Nottingham Park, you must either go straight across (north) on Cemetery Road to Route 272 near the Route 1 interchange, OR turn left (west) onto Park Road toward Lee’s Bridge Road. Access to Route 1 is via Lee’s Bridge Road to south on Fremont Road, east to West Ridge Road. This is approximately a three-mile trip, but generally less congested.
Freedom Fest
Continued from page 5
Safety
Whether walking or driving on the roadways, please be respectful of other guests. When arranging your viewing space (blankets and chairs), please be mindful of those around you.
The roped-off corridors through the center of the field, the area in front of the bus stops, and the gravel road separating the event field are for emergency access purposes. Please do not sit or place your belongings in these areas.
Directions
150 Park Road, Nottingham, PA 19362
Located 6 miles south of Oxford off Route 1 Bypass
Pennsylvania
Turnpike Valley Forge Exit:
Rt. 202 South past West Chester to Rt. 1
Rt. 1 South past Kennett Square & Oxford
Exit onto Rt. 272, Nottingham
Left onto Rt. 272 South; Proceed .25 miles to Herr Dr.
Right onto Herr Drive
Right onto Old Baltimore Pike
Right onto Park Road; Follow signs to entrance on left
Pennsylvania Turnpike Morgantown Exit:
Rt. 10 South, Approx. 27 miles to Rt. 1
Proceed South on Rt. 1
Exit onto Rt. 272, Nottingham
Left onto Rt. 272 South; Proceed .25 miles to Herr Dr.
Right onto Herr Drive
Right onto Old Baltimore Pike
Right onto Park Road; Follow signs to entrance on left
West Chester and North:
Rt. 202 South to Rt. 1 South past Kennett Square & Oxford
Exit onto Rt. 272, Nottingham
Left onto Rt. 272 South; Proceed .25 miles to Herr Dr.
Right onto Herr Drive
Right onto Old Baltimore Pike
Right onto Park Road; Follow signs to entrance on left York County and West:
Rt. 30 East; 20 miles through Lancaster
Proceed South on Rt. 222 to Willow St. Exchange
Proceed South on Rt. 272; 1.5 miles to Wakefield
Continue on Rt. 272 South; 9 miles to Village of Nottingham
Cross over Rt. 1; Turn right onto Herr Drive
Right onto Old Baltimore Pike
Right onto Park Road; Follow signs to entrance on left
Alcohol is strictly prohibited.
Ignited materials, including sparklers, are strictly prohibited.
Smoking permitted in designated areas only.
Nottingham County Park is located at 150 Park Road in Nottingham, Pa., 19362 in West Nottingham Township, five miles southwest of Oxford, off U.S. Route 1, just above the Maryland state line in southwestern Chester County. For event information, road restrictions and parking questions, contact Nottingham County Park at 610-932-2589 or visit http://chesco.org/2387/ Freedom-Fest.
Map: Nottingham County Park
Northeastern Maryland:
Follow I-95 North to Rt. 272
Proceed 11 miles on Rt. 272 North
To the Village of Nottingham
Proceed through main village intersection to Herr Dr.
Left onto Herr Drive
Right onto Old Baltimore Pike
Right onto Park Road; Follow signs to entrance on left
Reading, PA and Northwest:
422 East to I-76 South; Proceed to Morgantown
In Morgantown, turn right onto Rt. 23 West
Proceed South on Rt. 10; 27 miles to Rt. 1
Proceed South on Rt. 1 for 9 miles
Exit onto Rt. 272, Nottingham
Left onto Rt. 272 South; Proceed .25 miles to Herr Dr.
Right onto Herr Drive
Right onto Old Baltimore Pike
Right onto Park Road; Follow signs to entrance on left
More changes made to the Pennsylvania fireworks law
July 4 had a different sound in Pennsylvania last summer as fireworks filled the sky above backyards throughout the Commonwealth.
Sweeping changes to the fireworks law meant that 2018 was the first time that Pennsylvanians could legally celebrate the holiday with “the good stuff” such as mortars, rockets, firecrackers, Roman candles and all types of aerial fireworks. But with Independence Day 2019 approaching, fans of backyard fireworks might not be aware that that law has changed yet again. This new change doesn’t limit what types of fireworks that pyro enthusiasts can purchase, but where they can actually purchase them.
Last year “the good stuff” could be found at permanent fireworks stores, as well as tents and temporary structures. However, a December 2018 court ruling determined that temporary structures and tents would now be limited to selling ground-based fireworks such as fountains, sparklers and novelties. Tents will no longer be allowed to sell the more powerful mortars, Roman candles and other aerial fireworks because the tents lack the safety and security measures that are found in permanent, licensed fireworks facilities.
The good news for fireworks enthusiasts is that firecrackers, Roman candles and all the biggest and best aerial fireworks are still available for purchase at permanent fireworks facilities that have been licensed by the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture. Local residents can find every type of firework at the Keystone Fireworks store located in Nottingham on Route 1 at the Maryland state line. Better yet, Keystone’s entire fireworks inventory is buy one, get one for 99 cents now through July 4. Learn more at www.keystonefireworks.com.
So go ahead and make that shopping list for July 4, but plan your trip to a permanent, licensed fireworks store. Obey the law, be courteous to your neighbors and, of course, celebrate safely.
Calendar of Events
Tuesdays and Saturdays through the summer and fall Oxford Village Market and 20 on Tuesday
Each Tuesday and Saturday now through October, enjoy fresh local produce by vising the Oxford Village Market. The market is located at Third and Locust Streets and features vendors selling locally grown produce, meat, baked goods, and other products. Market hours are noon to 5 p.m. each Tuesday and 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. each Saturday. For more information, including what fruits and vegetables are in season at the Oxford Village Market, visit www.downtownoxfordpa.org. While you are in Oxford for the Village Market, stop into local businesses for special discounts on Tuesday. Many stores are offering 20 percent off discounts for “20 on Tuesday.”
June 29 Freedom Fest in Nottingham Park
The annual Freedom Fest at Nottingham County Park will be held on Saturday, June 29 from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m. Admission is free, but there is a parking charge per car. Enjoy fireworks, live music, entertainment, plenty of activities and offerings from food vendors. There will be snacks from Herr Foods, and festival foods served by vendors. Fireworks start at
9:30 p.m. Bring your own seating. Canopies are not permitted. Smoking and alcohol are prohibited. For more information, call 610-932-2589 or visit www.chesco.org/ccparks.
July 5
First Friday in Oxford
Spend some time in downtown Oxford during the extended Fourth of July holiday. The July First Friday event will have a patriotic and festive feel built around the “July Jubilee” theme. First Friday events include food, fun, and many activities and events that are taking place in downtown Oxford. Stores will be open late. The hours for First Friday are 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.
July 19
3rd on Third
Enjoy music, art, shopping, and dinner on the third Friday along Third Street in downtown Oxford. It is an opportunity for art lovers to view exhibits in an environment that caters to adults. Stroll Third Street for additional activities coinciding with the Arts Alliance exhibits. The hours are 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. For more information, visit www.downtownoxfordpa. org.
Continued on page 12
Courtesy photo Freedom Fest is a great way to celebrate the holiday.
Calendar of Events
Continued from page 10
July 19
Movies in the Park
Movies in the Park is a family-oriented event in the Oxford Memorial Park that is hosted by the Oxford Area Chamber of Commerce and sponsored by businesses in the community. On Friday, July 19, there will be a screening of “Incredibles 2.” Movies in the Park brings families into Oxford for a fun and entertaining evening. Make an evening of it and dine downtown and then head to the park for the movies. The event is free and open to the public. The movie previews start at 8:30 p.m. In the event of rain, the movie will be cancelled. Monitor the Chamber’s website (OxfordPa.org) and Facebook page for important weather-related announcements. Please bring a blanket or chair to sit on.
Aug. 2
First Friday in Oxford
Enjoy food, music, and activities at Oxford’s First Friday event. This year, the August First Friday event has been designated as the official “opener” for the Connective Art & Music Festival. The stores in the downtown will have extended hours and special deals. Hours are 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Photo by Steven Hoffman
There are plenty of summer of events to enjoy in downtown Oxford.
Aug. 3
Connective Art & Music Festival
The second annual Connective Art & Music Festival will be taking place in downtown Oxford on Saturday, Aug. 3. Following up on the success of the first event, organizers are planning an even bigger and better festival. The event features plenty of activities to bring the community together for a fun day of arts and music. For full details about the full-day of music and arts that will be included, visit www.downtownoxfordpa.org.
Aug. 16
3rd on Third
Enjoy music, art, shopping and dinner on third Friday along Third Street in downtown Oxford. It is an opportunity for art lovers to view exhibits in an environment that caters to adults. Stroll Third Street for additional activities coinciding with the Arts Alliance exhibits. The hours are 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. For more information, visit www.downtownoxfordpa. org.
Aug. 16
Movies in the Park
Movies in the Park is a family-oriented event in the Oxford Memorial Park that is hosted by the Oxford Area Chamber of Commerce and sponsored by businesses in the community. On Friday, Aug. 16, there will be a screening of “Coco.” Movies in the Park brings families into Oxford for a fun and entertaining evening. Make an evening of it and dine downtown and then head to the park for the movies. The event is free and open to the public. The movie previews start at 8:30 p.m. In the event of rain, the event will be cancelled. Monitor the Chamber’s website (OxfordPa.org) and Facebook page for important weather-related announcements. Please bring a blanket or chair to sit on.
Continued on page 14
Photo by Steven Hoffman
Enjoy great music and lots of art at the second annual Connective Festival.
Calendar of Events
Continued from page 13
August 17
3rd annual Everyday Hero Run
The 3rd Annual Everyday Hero Run is a fun, family-friendly 5K run and onemile walk dedicated to the memory of Jerome Rodio, an Oxford man whose great deeds and selfless acts helped bring the Oxford community together. Run (or walk) the scenic route through beautiful Nottingham Park. Proceeds benefit the Oxford Veterans Breakfast and the Oxford Chamber of Commerce, where Jerome was president at the time of his sudden passing in July, 2016. Visit the Oxford Area Chamber of Commerce website for full details at OxfordPa.org.
Sept. 6
First Friday Car Show
Oxford Mainstreet, Inc. will be hosting its sixth annual car show at the First Friday event in September. The car show, which is always one of Oxford Borough’s most popular events on the calendar, is expected to be larger than ever with more than 250 antique, classic, and modern cars on display. The car show runs from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. Visit downtownoxfordpa.org for full details.
Sept. 19 Golf tournament
The Oxford Area Chamber of Commerce’s Education & Scholarship Golf Tournament will take place on Thursday, Sept. 19 at the Tanglewood Manor Golf Course at 653 Scotland Road in Quarryville. Hosted in September, the golf tournament raises funds for scholarships to Oxford Area High School seniors pursuing further education as well as funding toward the Early College Academy (a partnership between Cecil College and Oxford Area High School). Visit the Oxford Area Chamber of Commerce website at OxfordPa.org for full details.
Sept. 28
Apple Festival
The Oxford Presbyterian Church’s popular annual Apple Festival in Oxford Memorial Park takes place on Saturday, Sept. 28. The event, which offers the community a day of fellowship and family fun, takes place from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. There will be dozens of vendors, games for children, and entertainment. For more information about the event, visit www.opcapplefestival.org.
Courtesy photo
The Education & Scholarship Golf Tournament takes place on Sept. 19.
The roots of Nottingham Park The roots of Nottingham Park
In 1826, William Scott received the property title for the plantation along the Philadelphia-Baltimore Post Road and began mining the chromite that was prevalent at the site.
In the 1830s, industrial chemist Isaac Tyson, Jr., purchased the mineral rights, and continued to purchase or lease properties along the State Line Serpentine District. He shipped chromite ore to Philadelphia for use in paint pigments, and to Liverpool, England, for the textile industry dye process. By 1850, he monopolized the world chromite business. During the latter part of the 19th century, when it became too costly to extract chromite, mining stopped at Nottingham.
A century ago, another mineral industry prospered in the barrens when immigrants, primarily from Italy, provided the labor to quarry feldspar. The feldspar was shipped to processing plants and distributed for industrial purposes such as false teeth, porcelain, pottery, tiles, scouring soaps, wood fillers and glass manufacturing. Today, concrete foundation piers from a placer chromite processing plant are visible beside Black Run. The plant was built during World War I for the recovery of placer chromite, probably for munitions.
Dedicated in September 1963, Nottingham Park was the first
Chester County park. Nottingham offers nine pavilions, an 18-station fitness trail, and three handicapped-accessible playgrounds.
The 651-acre park sits atop an outcropping of serpentine stone greater then one square mile in size -- one of the largest serpentine barrens on the East Coast.
For its natural history and conservation efforts, the National Park Service recognized Nottingham Park as a “National Natural Landmark” in 2008.
Serpentine, a geological outcrop of rare, light-green rock found only in three small geographic areas in all of North America, has soil so low in essential nutrients and so high in some metals that most ordinary plants will not grow. The barrens have their own community of plants, some of them globally rare, with practically no species in common with the surrounding forests and fields.
Typically, serpentine barrens contain scrub oak, pine, cedar and unique wildflowers. Some areas dominated by grasses are known as true prairies. Some areas with scattered trees are known as a savannah, which can survive and prosper with occasional fires.
Take a hike a on these on Nottingham trails
Fitness Trail - 1.0 Miles
The Par-Course Fitness Trail has 18 exercise stations that allow you to choose a level of difficulty. You may also find an abundance of wildflowers around this one-mile loop.
Lonesome Pine Trail - 0.4 Miles
Lonesome Pine Trail is mostly shaded and runs north/south direction through the center of the park. The connecting firebreaks provide interesting wildflowers and other flora. This area may be heavily populated with white-tailed deer and different species of birds.
Doe Trail - .99 Miles
Two-thirds of Doe Trail runs west and parallel to Black Run. Many wildflowers are found along this pleasant trail, which terminates at Feldspar Trail. Along the way, you will pass the World War II monument at Victory Run and Black Run.
Fawn Trail
-
0.25 Miles
Feldspar Trail - .64 Miles
Feldspar Trail starts at Park and Cemetery Road and runs south past Black Run before ending at Buck Trail.
Fishing at
Nottingham County Park
In Nottingham County Park, fishing opportunities are limited to two warmwater bodies of water -- a small pond and the larger McPherson Lake. These fishing areas are located on opposite sides of the park. Parking is available for both sites and provides easy access to the shoreline.
In the one-acre pond on the park’s east side, an angler may hook Bluegill, Largemouth Bass, Channel Catfish and Brown Bullhead.
The 2.5-acre McPherson Lake has Bluegill and Largemouth Bass, and is catch and release only.
Fishing equipment is available for free through the Rod & Tackle Loaner Program. Hibernia Park, Nottingham Park and Springton Manor Farm are official Rod & Tackle loaner sites. Equipment is available from April through November, 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.
This short trail begins at the Pavilion 7 gate, running in a southerly direction and crossing Black Run stream. A favorite birding location for Northern Oriole and Prairie Warbler.
Explore a county park today!
Chester County manages 21.8 miles of regional trails and over 4,600 acres of dedicated public parkland created to preserve natural, cultural and historical resources.
Black Rock Sanctuary
953 Black Rock Road (Route 113), Phoenixville 610-469-1916
Consisting of 119 acres of wetlands, woodlands and meadows, Black Rock Sanctuary is dedicated to wildlife habitat and public use. One of many desilting basins found along the Schuylkill River in Berks, Montgomery, Chester and Philadelphia counties, the Sanctuary offers a wonderful opportunity to relax and discover the history, geology, wildlife, plant life and habitats of the basin.
The sky over Black Rock is a flyway, or air highway, for birds that migrate up and down the East Coast. Observe your surroundings to appreciate the wetlands, which attract waterfowl and provide for other plants and animals.
Fish passages assist the upstream migration of American shad during their springtime spawning run up the Schuylkill River, which has been hindered since the dams were built in the early 19th Century. The fish passage facility was constructed at the Black Rock Dam by Exelon Generation, LLC.
Hibernia Park 1 Park Road, Coatesville 610-383-3812
Hibernia County Park consists of over 900 acres of trails, woodlands, meadows, open fields, play areas, pavilions, camping and picnic areas. Popular fishing sites include the Brandywine Creek’s west branch, Birch Run & a children’s pond. Chambers Lake is a great spot for boating and fishing.
Campgrounds are open on weekends May through October.
Walking tours explore the legacy of the iron masters and country gentlemen who owned the estate.The walking tour focuses on mansion builders Charles Brooks and Colonel Swayne.
From Hibernia Mansion, the tour explores ruins, structures and landscape features located on Forest Hill and Forge Trails and Lion’s Head Drive that tell the story of Hibernia’s past. Brochures explaining these features are available at the park office.
Hibernia Mansion, home of 19th century Ironmasters, graces Hibernia’s hillside. It is open for public tours on Sunday afternoons, Memorial Day to Labor Day. In December, the Mansion offers Candlelight Tours.
Nottingham Park 150 Park Road, Nottingham 610-932-2589
Dedicated in September 1963, Nottingham Park was the first Chester County park. In addition to experiencing the remnants of the quarry and mining industries, Nottingham offers nine pavilions, an 18-station fitness trail, and three modern, handicapped-accessible playgrounds.
The 651-acre park sits atop an outcropping of serpentine stone greater then one square mile in size - one of the largest serpentine barrens on the East Coast. It features former feldspar and serpentine quarries, and numerous former chromite ore mines.
For its natural history and conservation efforts, the National Park Service recognized Nottingham County Park as a National Natural Landmark in 2008. Today, concrete foundation piers from a placer chromite processing plant are visible beside Black Run. The plant was built during World War I for the recovery of placer chromite, probably for munitions.
Serpentine, a geological outcrop of rare, light-green rock found only in three small geographic areas in all of North America, has soil so low in essential nutrients and so high in some metals that most ordinary plants will not grow. The barrens have their own community of plants, some of them globally-rare, with practically no species in common with the surrounding forests and fields.
Typically, serpentine barrens contain scrub oak, pine, cedar and unique wildflowers. Some areas dominated by grasses are known as true prairies. Some areas with scattered trees are known as a savannah, which can survive and prosper with occasional fires.
Springton Manor Farm
860
Springton Road, Glenmoore
610-942-2450
Initially part of a William Penn Manor, Springton Manor has been in agricultural use since the early 1700’s. On this demonstration farm, you can meet the animals and learn about Chester County’s farming history.
The barn complex consists of the Great Barn, sheep shed, goat shed, a roost and equipment shed. You may see horses, donkeys, rabbits, calves, pigs, sheep, goats, chickens and peacocks. The Great Barn closes daily at 2:30 PM, but many of the animals are outdoors and available to visit until the park closes.
There is no fee to visit. Your visit may include a walk through the Great Barn and Family Farm Museum (located within the barn) at no charge. You do not need to be part of a group to visit and tour the park.
The park is open daily, except December 25, 8:00 AM - dusk. The park office is open Monday - Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM.
The barn and museum are open daily, 10:00 AM - 2:30 PM. Among Springton’s 300 acres are the fantastic Penn Oaks, family farm museum, a small pond, trails, scenic views, vegetable gardens and more. Within Springton’s historic landscape of fenced fields, stone walls and misty morning vistas is a preserved patchwork of colonial plantation, Industrial Revolution era scientific farm, Victorian tenant farm, and gentleman’s country estate.
Warwick Park 382 County Park Road, Pottstown 610-469-1916
Hardwood forests, meadows, wetlands, and the French Creek -- rated an “exceptional value” waterway by the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources -- encompass Warwick County Park’s 535 acres.
In the 18th and 19th centuries, Warwick’s woodlands provided much of the raw timber used to make charcoal for the region’s iron furnaces and forges. Remains of the iron industry can still be seen at various charcoal hearths along old cart paths. The park features an ADA -accessible fishing deck along the French Creek, a portion which meanders through the park. An ideal site for nature study, the HorseShoe Trail, extending from Valley Forge to the Appalachian Trail, adds length to the numerous miles of multi-use park trails.
The park has various pavilions, single-family picnic tables, two age-appropriate play areas, a sand volleyball court, horseshoe pit and a quoit pit.
On December 6, 2010, the Chester County Commissioners officially opened Wolf’s Hollow County Park, the county’s sixth regional park site, in Atglen, West Fallowfield Township. The entrance off Schoff Road leads to a trailhead parking lot.
The 569-acre park lies along the uppermost reaches of the Octoraro Creek and the south rise of the broadening Great Chester Valley. These natural features provide beautiful bluffs where visitors can overlook the creek and glades of Mountain Laurel. Nearly ten miles of trails wind through varied topography, providing hikers with routes ranging from moderate to challenging. Birders appreciate the several hundred acres of mature woodland habitat that attract many less commonly observed birds such as Brown Thrashers, Scarlet Tanagers and Baltimore Orioles.
Wolf’s Hollow is managed as a rustic, natural park, with no public office and limited comfort facilities. Park hours are 8 AM to sunset, year-round (closed on Christmas Day). Dogs are permitted on a 6-foot leash. The park is designated as a Carry In/Carry Out Area, and all Chester County Rules & Regulations apply.
Two acts perform at Freedom Fest this year
Performing before the fireworks this year will be singer-songwriter Angelee, and local rock band Half Past Seven.
Philadelphia-born and based, Angelee is a passionate and memorable singer-songwriter. His clear, strong voice draws you in, and his insightful songwriting compels you to stay. His music makes you think and inevitably feel something powerful. Angelee, who is a veterinarian by day, has received international acclaim for his song “Blue,” which was inspired by his yearly travels to Greece. His new single, “Kindness and Hope,” captures a musician in his prime, doing exactly what he does best -- backed by talented musicians that make an already great song shine. And the timing couldn’t be better. Amidst today’s ceaseless negativity and fearmongering, “Kindness and Hope” stands out for its simple message -- one that will stand the test of time and an undeniable hook.
Half Past Seven is a four-piece rock band from Southeastern Pennsylvania that includes lead vocalist Nick Lombardi, guitarist/ backing vocalist Steve Lombardi, bassist Brandon Ford, and drummer Chris Judge. The band released its first, self-titled EP in 2017. Their music can be found on Spotify, iTunes, Amazon, Google Play and more. The band plays a wide variety of cover music, from popular classics to current modern day top-40 hits.
The Oxford-based band Half Past Seven played at last year’s Connective Festival.
Angelee is a Philadelphia-based singer-songwriter.
Pavilion Information
Nottingham County Park offers nine pavilions accommodating up to 100 guests. Pavilions are available year-round. Reservations are required and can be made up to 12 months in advance. Reservations are valid during daily park hours. Payment is required to confirm the reservation. Payments are nonrefundable but can be credited for another date within one year. To make a reservation for a special event such as a wedding, camp, school trip, dog show, 5K run, etc., call the park at 610932-2589.
Rates Friday through Sunday, and on holidays, is $50 for residents ($70 for nonresidents), and Monday through Thursday rates are $25 for residents and $35 for nonresidents.
Visit www.chesco.org/1766/Pavilions for more information.
Find fresh products at area markets
Farmers’ markets are often open-air venues at which farmers and producers offer their products. The following are generally “producer only markets,” meaning they sell what they produce, not items they purchase from other suppliers.
For an interactive guide to area farm products, visit http://www.chescoplanning.org/adc/farmfinder/
Farmers’ Markets
Artisan Exchange West Chester
208 Carter Drive Suite 13-B
West Chester, PA 19382
Saturdays year round: 10am–2pm
610-719-0232
https://artisanexchange.net
Downingtown Farmers Market
Kerr Park, Pennsylvania Avenue, next to Veterans Memorial
Downingtown, PA 19335
Saturdays: 9am–1pm
610-836-1391
www.growingrootspartners.com
Eagleview Farmers Market at Town Center
Wellington Square, Eagleview
Exton, PA 19341
Thursdays: 3pm–7pm
www.growingrootspartners.com
East Goshen Farmers’ Market
East Goshen Park, 1661 Paoli Pike
West Chester, PA 19380
Thursdays: 3pm–7pm
610-692-7171
www.eastgoshen.org
Kennett Square Farmers Market
Downtown Kennett Square
101 East State Street
Kennett Square, PA 19348
Fridays: 3pm–7pm
610-444-8188
www.HistoricKennettSquare.com
Malvern Farmers Market
Burke Park
Roberts Road and Warren Avenue
Malvern, PA 19355
Saturdays: 9am–1pm
610-836-1391
www.growingrootspartners.com
New Garden Growers Market
New Garden Township Maintenance Building
8934 Gap Newport Pike
Landenberg, PA 19350
Saturdays: 9am–1pm
302-463-0713
www.newgardengrowers.com
Oxford Village Market
Downtown Oxford at 3rd and Locust Streets
Oxford, PA 19363
Tuesdays: 12pm–5pm
Saturdays: 9am–1pm
610-998-9494
www.downtownoxfordpa.org
Phoenixville Farmers’ Market
Under the Veterans Memorial Gay Street Bridge Phoenixville, PA 19460
Accessed by Taylor Alley off of Bridge Street
Saturdays: 9am–1pm www.phoenixvillefarmersmarket.org
West Chester Growers Market
Downtown West Chester at the Church & Chestnut Streets
municipal parking lot
West Chester, PA 19380
Saturdays: 9am–1pm www.westchestergrowersmarket.com
Retail Outlets
Retail outlets are places where consumers may find local items, but a variety of non-local items are offered as well. Many of these outlets are open year-round.
Crop’s Fresh Marketplace
1257 Horseshoe Pike
Downingtown, PA 19335
484-593-2665
www.cropsmarketplace.com
Far Away Farm’s Country Corner
690 Marshall Road
Glenmoore, PA 19343
610-942-2848
www.farawayfarmcc.com
Great Pumpkin Health Foods
607 E. Market Street
West Chester, PA 19382
610-696-0741
www.greatpumpkinmarket.com
Hershey’s Farm Market 959 South Octorara Trail Parkesburg, PA 19365
610-857-5053
www.hersheysfarmmarket.com
Jim’s Market 314 Chrome Road Oxford, PA 19363
443-993-7702
Kennett Garden Market
922 West Baltimore Pike Kennett Square, PA 19348 610-444-0155
Kimberton Whole Foods
2140 Kimberton Road Phoenixville, PA 19460 610-935-1444
429 East King Road Malvern, PA 19355 484-324-2800
150 East Pennsylvania Avenue Downingtown, PA 19335
610-873-8225
www.kimbertonwholefoods.com
Northbrook Country Market
1805 Unionville-Wawaset Road West Chester, PA 19382
610-793-1210
www.northbrookmarketplace.com
Oxford Farm Market
193 Limestone Road Oxford, PA 19363
610-932-8048
September Farm
Cheese
5287 Horseshoe Pike
Honey Brook, PA 19344
610-273-3552
www.septemberfarmcheese.com
Leon & Carson
Samara & Angel
Bryan & Fahrny
The second annual Connective Art & Music Festival set for Aug. 3
By Steven Hoffman Staff Writer
Oxford shined during the first Connective Art & Music Festival in August of 2018. With music on three different stages, a gallery row of talented artists, numerous children’s activities, and plenty of food and fun, the festival achieved its goal of bringing the community together through art and music.
“I think it’s an amazing event,” said Jamie Corbett, who was one of the artists who took part in the Clash of the Canvases competition at the first festival. “Oxford is a great community.”
Thousands turned out for the event, and the immediate responses on social media suggested that everyone who attended the event had a great time.
The second year of the festival on Saturday, Aug. 3 promises to be even better.
Organizers started making announcements about this year’s festival lineup several months ago. Blind Melon has been tapped to headline the main stage of the
festival. Blind Melon is a multiplatinum recording artist best known for “Tones of Home,” “Change,” and their smash hit, “No Rain.” This year, the music lineup is expanded—it will run from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. in 2019. There will be several main stage performers leading up to Blind Melon’s performance.
Four-time Grammy nominee Trout Fishing in America will welcome kids and kids-at-heart with an eclectic mix of folk and rock children’s music. Songs like “My Hair Had a Party Last Night,” “18 Wheels on a Big Rig” and “When I Was a Dinosaur” have earned them a place in the hearts of kids and parents everywhere.
Also performing will be Swift Technique, a Philadelphia-based band that blends funk, soul, rock and hip-hop. Rounding out the lineup is the National Reserve, a Brooklyn-based band that focuses on song-craft and showmanship. There will once again be a Battle of the Bands competition where local groups can compete for cash prizes and the chance to be the first
opener for the headliner on the main stage. The entry deadline is July 5.
For the second year in a row, Lincoln University is providing significant support to the Connective Festival through the sponsorship of the World Stage. The World Stage will feature a lineup of five acts, with sounds ranging from Celtic to Caribbean.
Eva Salina and Peter Stan are a duo of accordion and voice, traveling through the traditional songs of Balkan Roma communities. Their performances showcase stories, history, insight, humor, melancholy and friendship.
Jah People moves crowds with their spirited sets that include improvisational interpretations of reggae classics, as well as newly crafted original music. This is an embodiment of Bob Marley’s melodic messages of love, spirituality and good vibes.
Continued on page 36
Oxford’s Connective Festival named ‘XPN Welcomes’ event
Philadelphia-based, member-supported radio station WXPN has recognized the 2019 Connective Art & Music Festival as an official “XPN Welcomes” event, and is lending its support to the festival in its sophomore year.
As the exclusive radio sponsor for the Connective Festival, WXPN will promote the event through on-air and online mentions, as well as at other WXPN events.
In addition to bringing the people of Oxford together, the organizers of the Connective Festival hope it also serves as a way to promote Oxford’s growing artistic and cultural vibe to the region. Festival organizers recently announced their headliner as Blind Melon, and revealed main stage acts, with additional stage lineups to be announced.
Tony Derrico, assistant director of the Oxford Arts Alliance and Connective Festival co-chair, said, “WXPN has a long-standing and well-deserved reputation for discovering new and significant artists. One of our goals is to introduce Connective festivalgoers to new and unique groups that they may not have heard before, and we are thrilled that our lineup already features multiple artists that have been lauded by XPN, including Trout Fishing in America, Ali Awan, Swift Technique, The National Reserve, and others. We are extremely proud to be connected to such a wellrespected organization and are grateful for their support.”
Connective Festival
Continued from page 33
Poor Man’s Gambit is a Bethlehem, Pa.-based trio that plays a fusion of traditional music of Ireland, France, and Scotland.
PhillyBloco is modeled after the blocos of Brazil with their large percussion sections and harmonic/vocal accompaniment. The group is high energy, performing a raucous mash-up of samba, funk, reggae and New Orleans jazz.
On the Americana Stage, a number of talented artists will be featured. Colebrook Road is a five-piece ensemble from Harrisburg, and performs original bluegrass while staying deeply rooted in tradition. David Wax Museum is exploring uncharted musical territory with its latest studio album.
Rylan Brooks is the mainstay at the Skinny Dennis honkytonk in Brooklyn, with a dose of good-natured humor. Originally from Havertown, the band splits their time between New York City and Nashville, Tenn.
Another performer on the Americana Stage will be Gooch and The Motion. The band delivers a unique blend of country, blues, and rock that’s straight out of South Jersey. Formed in 2016, the band began as a rotation of many talented musicians from the Philadelphia and New Jersey areas. The core of the band has become a six-piece group that has performed with The Allman Brothers, Luther Dickinson, Lynryd Skynyrd, Robert Randolph and the Family Band, Walter Trout, and the Zach Brown Band.
Singer-songwriter Morgan Pinkstone has been writing and performing original music across the Philadelphia area since 2009. As the primary songwriter and front-woman for the band Swedeland, she is influenced heavily by 1960s soul, classic rock, Americana and jazz. She released her debut solo album, Swimmer, in late 2016.
Organizers of the festival are excited about the lineup.
Mary Lou Baily, Main Street Manager for Oxford Mainstreet, Inc., said, “Now that we have revealed the lineups for all three festival stages, it is really rewarding to hear the positive feedback from the community. Our team is excited that this year’s festival will truly offer something for everyone, with an all-access ticket price that can’t be beat.”
Of course, the Connective Festival will feature more than music. In addition to multiple stages with diverse lineups and a variety of street performers throughout the festival grounds, Gallery Row will house 30 visual artists, and an additional 10 artisans will be showcased in the World Market, a new addition to this year’s festival. Themed tents featuring demonstrations and activities for kids and adults, and a variety of interactive music and art opportunities will be available for guests to experience.
The Connective Art & Music Festival will benefit the Oxford Arts Alliance and Oxford Mainstreet, Inc.
Tickets are available through the festival website, www.connectivefestival.org.
To contact Staff Writer Steven Hoffman, email editor@chestercounty.com.
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