VOICE OF THE BOROUGH JANUARY 2014
sunday, january 26
2014
BARTENDERS
b ll
wcbartendersball.com 2
the wc press | voice of the borough
Retail & Restaurant Specials Carriage Rides Ice Sculpting Live Performances and More!
FEBRUARY 14, 15, 16 BROUGHT TO YOU BY...
2
DowntownWestChester.com
the wc press | voice of the borough
We’ve
moved!
Same quality, New Facility! Plus dog training And coming soon... pet grooming!
15 S Bolmar St TobysK9Kamp.com 610-430-1330
Press Publisher Dan Mathers Dan@thewcpress.com
Advertising Manager Nick Vecchio Nick@thewcpress.com Copy Editor Kehan DeSousa kdesousa@thewcpress.com Graphic Designer Nazarena Luzzi Castro nazluzzidesign.com Contributing Editors Jesse Piersol jpiersol@thewcpress.com Kate Chadwick kchadwick@thewcpress.com Contributing Photographers Luke Darigan lukedarigan.com Luke O’Brien snappedstudio.com
“
History is a cyclic poem written by time upon the memories of man. Columnists Chelsea Durning cdurning@thewcpress.com DJ Romeo romeo@thewcpress.com Jennifer Ozgur jozgur@thewcpress.com
“
The
Photography Intern Annie Tennyson Published By... Mathers Productions Limited 13 South Church Street West Chester, PA 19382 mathersproductions.com 610-344-3463
The WC Press is a monthly magazine distributed free of charge to more than 250 businesses. For a free digital subscription, visit thewcpress.com. For more information about specific distribution locations visit thewcpress.com/distribution.
Worth
Noting
Our no-nonsense table of contents
8
Event photos Our favorite images from the past month
15
Infographic Measuring West Chester’s historic landmarks by the numbers
17
Our Timeline Chronicling the historic milestones of West Chester
29
The Makeover Balance Hair Spa Studio styles a lucky lady
31
Owner of the month Donald Moore has a history of success in West Chester
35
A History of Publishing The publications that have called this borough home
43
Bartender of the month Brad Norris of Ram’s Head knows a thing or two about beer
45
The Look Nich Boutique offers up two of the best looks for this month
47
On Exhibit Chester County Historical Society showcases clothing
49
Photohunt Our own free version of your favorite bar game
janaury 2014 | thewcpress.com
5
6
the wc press | voice of the borough
Fromthe
Editor
Shoutout to Nazarena Luzzi Castro for the beautiful new design of this magazine. The girl works wonders.
I think it’s a psychological principal that we all consider ourselves unique individuals. We all want to believe that we’re smart, funny and beautiful. We want to believe that our families are the way all families should be and our lovers the best around. We want to think that where we come from has a richness and quality that others lack. Still, growing up here I just assumed every landscape was dotted with historic landmarks and that every elementary student toured historic battlefields on school trips—no big deal. I just figured that, because America was a new country, this couldn’t be that special. Maybe if I’d spent less time goofing off in history classes, I’d have realized much earlier in life just how significant a place West Chester really is. My wife proudly shared her country’s history when I visited Belarus. We toured castles built before America was even an idea and strolled through gold-plated cathedrals that pre-dated Columbus. We viewed the private collections of sovereign barons, and stood before monuments erected in memory of the victims of war. Sure it was impressive, but they’ve had a long time to collect those achievements. Our history is just as full of conquest and glory, culture and wealth, and the blood of fallen soldiers as any other country–it’s just condensed. The timeline that begins on page 17 backs me up. Our list chronicles 57 historic moments that made West Chester the town it is today, all spanning only 404 years. Even more impressive is the density of history in this town. West Chester is packed with more historic landmarks per square mile than some of America’s most famously historic cities. Don’t believe me? Take a look at page 15. The only bit of West Chester history I found depressing involves the story that starts on page 35. Those same psychological principles that make us believe we’re unique individuals also seem—at least in my case—to apply to the businesses we found, and my belief that The WC Press was a novel idea shattered when I read Kate Chadwick’s piece on the history of publishing in West Chester. The final list we’ve printed has been trimmed down and focuses simply on the most interesting publications, but the original list included 42 businesses who published here in West Chester, of which The WC Press was number 41. Not so original after all. But despite this small loss, I still think my wife is the best around. I think my family should be the model for all others. I like to think I’m smart and funny and beautiful. You may disagree with me, but I’ll just tell myself that’s because you’re neither smart enough nor funny enough to understand—besides, these things are hard to quantify. But, rather than debate this, I’d like to point out one undisputed fact we can all agree upon: few towns possess the sense of place that West Chester provides, and we’re lucky to call this town home. Don’t believe me? Just peruse these pages.
211 E Market St 610.429.0467
www.chefanti.com
Busy Week Ahead? Let Chefanti do the cooking! Fresh, healthy, order-ahead, familystyle meals available for take-out or delivered to your door. Order online for one night or the whole week!
“Grab & Go” Lunch Available M-F, 11:30am-2pm janaury 2014 | thewcpress.com
7
Old Fashioned Christmas Parade
12.6
Whether it’s the lighting of the tree, the running of the elves, or the actual parade itself, everybody loves the Old Fashioned Christmas Parade, and even the rain couldn’t keep the crowds from downtown West Chester. photos by Annie Tennyson
Amanda Valentino, Susanne Lippold
8
the wc press | voice of the borough
january 2014 | thewcpress.com
9
Old Fashioned Christmas Parade
12.6
Whether it’s the lighting of the tree, the running of the elves, or the actual parade itself, everybody loves the Old Fashioned Christmas Parade, and even the rain couldn’t keep the crowds from downtown West Chester. photos by Annie Tennyson
Heather, Lynne, Kevin, Justin, Alex, Brad “Yukon”
Jessica Chominski, Kathy Bayer
Henry, Jennifer, and Jack Rosenberg
10
the wc press | voice of the borough
Mathew, Pat, and Christine Pagano
janaury 2014 | thewcpress.com
11
Old Fashioned Christmas Parade
12.6
Whether it’s the lighting of the tree, the running of the elves, or the actual parade itself, everybody loves the Old Fashioned Christmas Parade, and even the rain couldn’t keep the crowds from downtown West Chester. photos by Annie Tennyson
Eileen and Megan Dioguardo, Megan and Emily Hatcher
Cakes & Candies by Maryellen’s winning float
12
the wc press | voice of the borough
janaury 2014 | thewcpress.com
13
14
the wc press | voice of the borough
DATA visualization that means that
there is ONE HISTORIC place for every
in the BOROUGH OF
0.09 square
West Chester
miles of land
ALONE THERE ARE 20
BUILDINGS ON THE
43 football fields of space
to put the impressiveness of that total into perspective, neighboring
Downingtown only makes the list 5 times, and they're technically 0.4 square miles larger
is more than buildings - there are
19
Historical Markers
in west chester commemorating
defining moments in history
imagine one historical landmark for every
NATIONAL REGISTER OF historic places
but west chester
to help you visualize that,
AND ACTUALLY, IT'S MORE THAN TWO TIMES AS MANY HISTORIC PLACES PER
square MILE AS philadelphia
of those maRkers,
six involve the
REVOLUTIONARY WAR... ...SEVEN COMMEMORATE Individuals like horace pippin and general lafayette...
...and only one is about A building.
(if you're curious,
it's the birmingham friends meeting house.)
so, for 28 years this whole town's been considered a
historic landmark.
but, what's probably most
impressive
is that downtown west chester was added to the national register
of historic places in 1985
HECK YES,
West Chester! january 2014 | thewcpress.com
15
16
the wc press | voice of the borough
.
januarydowntownwestchester.com 2014 | thewcpress.com 1717
18
the wc press | voice of the borough
january downtownwestchester.com 2014 | thewcpress.com 19 19
20
the wc press | voice of the borough
januarydowntownwestchester.com 2014 | thewcpress.com 2121
fo r
in an sp d irin de g si st gn yl s es
@ sa Fo lo ll nc ow he m ist ry
Salon
A top-notch salon with a very real feel.
610-585-0102 salonchemistry.net You can find Salon Chemistry on Middle Alley between Walnut and Matlack Streets. Just head down Market Street and Salon Chemistry is in the lot to your left, behind the Salvation Army.
22
the wc press | voice of the borough
23
januarydowntownwestchester.com 2014 | thewcpress.com 23
24
the wc press | voice of the borough
downtownwestchester.com
january 2014 | thewcpress.com
25
25
Best Steak House In West Chester Live Music on Weekends, Patio Dining Fabulous Martinis, Seasonal Menu
125 W Market Street West Chester, PA 484.760.6100 ď ´ PietrosPrime.com pietrosprime.com/facebook 26
the wc press | voice of the borough
Children in
Tow
Jennifer Ozgur is a mother, wife and teacher who still finds time to get out and about with her family
This winter in West Chester has already been waaaay worse than our past two combined. While the snow and ice may be a welcome backdrop for those who like a seasonal setting, I, conversely, look forward to when I can once again leave the house without dressing my son so that he resembles an overstuffed burrito. Although January may not be a typical playground month, parks combat cabin fever. Here’s hoping the following anecdotes serve as inspiration to brave the elements. Bayard Rustin Park may be small, but its namesake is very well known. Rustin was a civil rights activist who organized the famed march on Washington DC. He was a Quaker who received much criticism throughout his life for not only protesting the Vietnam War but for his race and sexual orientation. The park is located off Rosedale Avenue, between the Fame Fire Company and West Chester University. It has a basketball court, covered picnic benches and a nice climbing area for toddlers. John O. Green Park is just below Market Street on South Matlack, and it would be a great place for your kids to work up an appetite before dining in town. It is the most recently upgraded park in the borough, with soft rubber matting and a new water feature to keep in mind for the hot summer months. Green was a former West Chester Police Chief, and, surprisingly, the borough purchased the land in 1998 from Philadelphia Electric Company for one dollar. Marshall Square Park is one of the most picturesque areas of the borough. Walking paths crisscross the grounds, and its various trees and gazebo make for wonderful photo opportunities when covered with a fresh snowfall. The park itself has been the subject of ghost stories (notice the pentagon of five trees on the southwestern corner) and its “disappearing” fountain has stirred up attention recently, with plans to be renovated and reinstalled. The park’s namesake, Humphrey Marshall, was born in 1722 and is best known for being the first published botanist in the Western Hemisphere. Joshua Hoopes was another West Chester tree lover. He also founded a school for boys, established in West Chester in 1834. The park that bears his name is on West Ashbridge, past the West Chester Country Club. It has tennis and basketball courts, in addition to a baseball field—a great place to break in that new glove or racket along with Grandma’s holiday gift of long underwear. The final notable park is the one named after William Everhart. He purchased a huge parcel of land from Wollerton farm in 1829 for $16,000.00. This sale resulted in the vast expansion of what is present-day West Chester. It’s probably the most famous of all the parks in town, hosting the popular Turk’s Head Music Festival. A little research uncovered a little infamy as well: apparently, William’s youngest brother Isaiah had a son who was found guilty of hiring somebody to kill William. Ghosts, murderous plots, conscientious objectors and police: may it inspire your family to get outdoors and let your imagination run wild. Just don’t lick the slide. jozgur@thewcpress.com
janaury 2014 | thewcpress.com
27
WE’LL PUT YOU ON THE MAP
WEST CHESTER’S LANDLORD Senator Dinniman Limoncello The WC Press Yori’s Bakery The Social Lounge Subway Ram’s Head Saladworks Franklin Mint Pisano & Sons Big Mike’s Salon Chemistry Nonna’s Doc Magrogan’s Optimal Massage Cozy Hookah Café William Shehwen Law Offices Kooma Pietro’s Prime
Moonflower Giuseppe Cabinets Mainline Men’s Chester County Intermediate Unit D’Ascenzo Gelato I Pasta X-treme Ink Tattoo The Pita Pit The Note The Olive Branch Blaze Salon Balance Hair Spa Vitesse Sports Zazen Nail Spa High Roller Tattoo The Lunch Box Jazmine Thai Culinary Deliveries Elwyn School
121 E GAY STREET 610.696.0953 ZUKINREALTYINC.COM 28
the wc press | voice of the borough
The
Makeover photo
Luke O’Brien
story
Biff Piner
“
Tish Boutique dressed Amy in a Lucy Paris shimmer sheath dress that complemented her new color.
"
Balance Hair Spa Studio restyles a lucky lady. Amy had long, thick hair that lacked shine and moisture. She wanted more movement without taking away the length. Starting with her hair, we gave her a warm, cinnamon-brown base color with darker chocolate-brown panels throughout the interior. The warm tones bring out her blue eyes and fair complexion. Using a balayage technique, we hand-painted strands of Amy’s hair with amber and honey highlights where the sun would naturally lighten the hair, creating a softer finish than traditional ombre. To reshape her hair, we trimmed two inches off to create shattered layers that blend into her length, then used a razor to soften those layers and remove weight. We styled the look with a round brush, then finished it with a curling iron for even more body. For her makeup, we used a bronze pallette for a natural look. To accentuate her eyes we applied eye shadow, brown eyeliner and blackout mascara. We used a mineral primer to give her a smooth pallette with a medium concealer for problem areas, then used liquid mineral foundation in pebble and contoured with blush to bring out her cheek bones. Her lips we accentuated with cedar lipstick and lipgloss. We finished with mineral perfecting powder to give a silky look.
january 2014 | thewcpress.com
29
30
the wc press | voice of the borough
Owner of the
Month
Photo
Luke O'Brien
Interview
Dan Mathers
There are very few industries in West Chester where Donald Moore has not made his name. How many businesses do you currently own? I am the co-owner of Calista Grand Salon and Spa, Calista Tools, and The Social Lounge, and owner of deansandfranks.com. What is Deans and Franks? I am one of the largest collectors and resellers of Rat Pack memorabilia in the world. How did that happen? I started collecting Sinatra’s belongings back in the early ’60s, and I’ve just been buying things since then. I own a lot of his personal art; I actually own the last one he painted before he passed. How extensive is the collection? I have so much stuff that I was forced to put it up for sale. My wife asked me, “What are you going to do with this stuff?” I said, “I guess I’m gonna have to start selling it.”
What sparked your interest in this? I’ve just been a fan of his since I was a kid—my parents would play it in the house. I understand you also had a hand in bringing the West Chester Walk of Fame, which will honor historic figures from West Chester, to the downtown. The Walk of Fame was a concept I spoke loosely about with council and chamber members four years ago, and now it’s grown. Plaques will be at various locations downtown after the ceremony this spring. Of all the things you’re involved in, what is the most interesting right now? Calista Tools. It’s a product line we developed for QVC with state-of-the-art haircare products and styling tools. Our Perfecter—a hot brush that replaces the curling iron, flat iron, round brush and blow dryer—is doing really well both on QVC and through its infomercials. Calista isn’t you first salon, right? I started in 1974 with Headquarters Hair Design in Parkway Shopping Center. In 1984, I opened up Heads You In, and we eventually had six locations. And didn’t you have another restaurant before The Social Lounge? In 1998 I opened up the Goose Creek Grill, and that’s also the same year we opened up Calista Grand Salon & Spa. It was really rewarding to have two different businesses be recognized as “Best Of”
in their categories by Philadelphia Magazine and Mainline Today, respectively. What made you decide to open a restaurant? I’ve always been a foodie and felt that, at the time, this area was under-serviced. I sold that location in 2003. What prompted you to open The Social Lounge? My son and I had an opportunity to open a business in the space that was formerly Spence Café. We decided to take a shot at the restaurant business here in town and linked up with Dan Funk of New Orleans Café fame. He’s proven to be the right person for the restaurant … although, we don’t really call it a restaurant—we’re a great bar with fabulous food. Of all you’ve done, what would you consider to be your crowning achievement? I was recognized by the Greater Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce as businessman of the year in all of Southeastern Pennsylvania back in 1999. To what do you attribute that success? I’ve always surrounded myself with good employees and great partners. Okay, enough about history: what does the future look like? People ask me when I’m gonna retire, but as long as I can wake up and I enjoy my day I’m going to keep doing it. I just figured out what I’m doing; why would I stop now?
january 2014 | thewcpress.com
31
We are Insurance. We are Farmers. Excite all of your senses
Brandt van Naerssen agency owner Business 610-386-7326 Fax 610-441-7583 Cell 610-745-3276 bvannaerssen@famersagent.com
at West Chester’s most alternative & unique boutique! A vast array of “one-of-a-kind” products, including...
Hip Clothing • Bags & Accessories • Jewelry Galore • Incense/Oils/Candles • Tapestries/Blankets • Eclectic home/Dorm décor • Hemp products • Grateful Dead, Bob Marley & ‘60s Memorabilia • Tie Dyes & Cool T-shirts • Hand-blown glass & local artwork • Tobacco accessories • Groovy Gifts Gift Certificates Available
130 W. Gay Street 610-431-6607 www.moonflowershop.com A portion of our proceeds go to environmental and pro-peace charities!
1000 Continental Drive, Suite 500 King of Prussia, PA 19406-2820 www.farmersagent.com/bvannaerssen
All major credit cards accepted. Open 7 Days A Week
10% off purchase with student ID! SINCE 1992
Classes at... Peter’s Salon & European Spa 1009 West Chester Pike Mon, Tues, Weds, Thurs @7pm & Sat @9:30am Bring this ad to your first class and it’s FREE
carolt.zumba@gmail.com
32
the wc press | voice of the borough
610-436-6464
The
takehome
Chef
Chelsea Durning is a cook by trade and she’s not shy about sharing her recipes with our readers
Historically, there is one man to whom chefs give credit for the way restaurants work today: Georges-Auguste Escoffier. He reorganized the kitchen by breaking it down into “stations,” so that each person had a job based on the food being prepared. Escoffier also simplified recipes so that they were read based on the main ingredient and cooking method being used. He is, for lack of a better term, “The Godfather” of modern-day-cooking. Below are two of his classical sauces that we in the kitchen know as the “mother sauces,” both still used frequently today.
Hollandaise 1 1/4 lb butter, clarified (milk solids removed) 1/8 tsp peppercorns, crushed 1/8 tsp salt (kosher preferred) 1 1/2 oz white wine vinegar 1 oz cold water 6 egg yolks 1-2 tbsp lemon juice salt, to taste cayenne pepper, to taste To clarify your butter, create a double boiler by boiling a pot of water, placing a bowl on top, and melting the butter until the milk solids (white foam) come to the top, then remove them. Reduce the heat of the water to a simmer. Place the salt, vinegar and crushed peppercorns into a sauce pan and reduce until almost dry (about 2/3). Remove from heat and add the cold water. Transfer the reduction into a bowl. Add the egg yolks and beat the mixture over the simmering water. Beat the egg yolks until they become thick and a very pale yellow. Remove from heat and slowly whisk in the clarified butter, adding just a few droplets at first to get the emulsion going. Once the butter is added, season with the lemon juice, salt and cayenne pepper to taste.
Béchamel 2 oz butter, clarified 2 oz flour 1 qt milk 1 bay leaf 1 clove, whole 1/2 onion, peeled salt, pepper, and nutmeg, to taste Over low heat, melt the butter. Add the flour and cook for about 3-4 minutes until the raw taste is cooked out. This is called a roux and it should look and feel like wet sand. Cool slightly. In a separate sauce pan, scald the milk (just before boiling). Gradually add the roux, beating constantly. Bring to a boil. Stick the bay leaf onto the onion with the clove and add to the sauce. Simmer for about 30 minutes. Season lightly with the salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Remove the onion. cdurning@thewcpress.com
janaury 2014 | thewcpress.com
33
34
the wc press | voice of the borough
Publishing in West Chester 1797-2014
A brief, amusing and mostly accurate overview of the history of publishing in West Chester: Kate Chadwick pays tribute to some of the publications that have paved the way for The WC Press. january 2014 | thewcpress.com
35
36
the wc press | voice of the borough
Staff of The American Republican newspaper, circa. 1870. photo courtesy of Chester County Historical Society
Once upon a time, humans placed a high value ing material,” and sold for 25 cents an issue. Sadly, it was evion communicating with one another through dently ahead of its time and lasted just six months. words and pictures. Okay, they still do, and you probably West Chester Gazette need look no further for proof of that than the person nearest to you right this minute, who is no doubt texting, messaging, or emailing someone on his or her phone or other device. The written word has been a compelling part of the human experience for approximately 5,000 years. And while actual publishers didn’t come along quite that early, they’ve been around for some time, too, as we discovered when we took a look back at the history of publishing in the borough of West Chester. While this fine publication you’re holding—or reading on your tablet—is no doubt your favorite West Chester periodical, there are many that have gone before, as well as a couple that have stood the test of time. We present here a brief overview of the history of select periodicals published specifically here in our town, from some of the key players to the one-hit wonders.
The Pioneers: Sailing into uncharted waters The Literary Museum or Monthly Magazine Established in 1797, this was the first attempt to bring periodicals to the local masses. It was printed and published in an office on South High Street, held 56 pages of “excellent read-
Established in approximately early 1799, the Gazette was the borough’s first attempt at a weekly newspaper. Published by local printers Jones, Hoff and Derrick, the Gazette ceased publication after just a few issues; there are no copies of the publication believed to still be in existence. The American Republican In researching this article, we consulted the History of Chester County, Pennsylvania, by Futhey & Cope, published in 1881, a book that dizzily details the constantly changing cast of characters (dozens) who published The American Republican and its subsequent and various incarnations (also dozens) over many years (technically, from 1822-1878). In the interest of brevity, we will simply point out three interesting facts: 1. In 1839 an interest in the paper was sold to one Nimrod Strickland (best name ever); 2. It was a weekly, then a semi-weekly, followed by a daily published in the morning, and then a daily published in the afternoon; 3. It was published in a building on the south side of Gay Street, between Church and Darlington. (Then on Market Street; then on Church, between Gay and Market; then on North High Street, near Chestnut, and finally another office on Market, opposite the southwest corner of the courthouse yard.)
january 2014 | thewcpress.com
37
Typesetters at work at the Daily Local News, circa. 1905 photo courtesy of Chester County Historical Society
“
Chester and Delaware Federalist First published in West Chester by Dennis Whelen in 1809, it was sold to Charles Miner in 1817, who changed the name to the Village Record, making “Chester and Delaware Federalist” a sub-heading. He also enlarged the size of the paper from 10x16 to 12x18 inches. In 1825, Charles Miner’s brother Asher came on board; in 1830 the paper was enlarged yet again to 14x19 inches, and the sub-heading changed to “And General Advertiser.” Charles Miner was considered an excellent writer, and under his editorship the paper gained “a high character, and did much to promote intelligence among the people.” The brothers successfully ran the weekly before selling it in 1834.
Charles Miner was considered an excellent writer, and under his editorship the paper gained “a high character, and did much to promote intelligence among the people.”
1834-35 – The Whig A weekly, published by Simeon Siegfried
The Creatively Named: No, we didn’t make these up. The Independent Journal and Working Man’s Advocate A weekly published from 1841-42 by A.M. Wright and A.J. Creyon (Or, was it just a diary by one ambitious guy?) Crystal Fount Reformer A weekly published from 1846-48. You might not have thought crystal fount reformation would support a weekly, but you’d be wrong. Anti-Masonic Register and Chester County Examiner A weekly published by one Joseph Painter from 1831-35. Titling a newspaper with the prefix “anti” seems like a bold move to us, but clearly they wanted there to be no doubt about their political leanings. Temperance Advocate and Journal of the Times
“
The Fly-by-Nighters: They came, they saw, A weekly published from 1831-35 by Simeon Siegfried. Mr. Siegfried, it should be noted, was one of the cast of characters they disappeared in less than a year. 1867-68 – Commercial Advertiser A monthly, published by Taylor & Hickman 1864-64 – The Chester County Chronicle A weekly published by Alfred Galliner 1856-57 – The Independent Herald and Free American A weekly, published by W.L. & E.F. James
through the revolving door at the The American Republic, et al.
Literary Casket A weekly published circa 1828 until 1830 by C. Hannum and J.A. Hemphill. Our favorite creative name by far, but sadly not much other information is available about it, except that its office was located on the east side of Church Street, three doors north of Market, not far from our headquarters.
january 2014 | thewcpress.com
39
All Baking Done on Premises 15 N Church St ď‚Ą 610-344-9674
40
the wc press | voice of the borough
Monday to Friday: 9am-5:30pm | Saturday: 8am-2pm Monday 12/23: 9am-5:30pm | Tuesday 12/24: 8am-2pm Closed 12/25 and 12/26 610.696.9683 | 1009 West Chester Pike
Pressroom of the Daily Local News, circa 1939. photo courtesy of Chester County Historical Society Morning Republican A daily, except Sunday, published by West Chester Publishing Company from 1897-1914, presumably for those who don’t like their Republicans in the afternoon. Thursday A.M. A weekly from 1940 published by George Lilley and Raeder Huey every … Thursday. In the morning.
The Stalwarts: Still going strong, still relevant The Quad The next time you hear someone lamenting about “these kids today,” refer them to The Quad, the WCU student newspaper, which is run solely by students and has been in continuous publication since 1932. The Quad is currently published 20 times per year: ten Mondays each, during the fall and spring semesters. It provides university news, opinions and sports to the campus, alumni and faculty, and to the West Chester community. We checked in with Quad editor-in-chief Kenny Ayers to ask about the importance of the paper’s history. “I would say that in our everyday work, that factor doesn’t weigh in much,” Ayres told us. “The industry is constantly changing, and to hang up in the past too much would be detrimental to our readership. That being said, we do keep the history in mind for certain things. There’s been a push by some over the last several years to change the name of The Quad, but it’s something
we refuse to do based on its history. The same thing goes with print copies. It’s been suggested that we go solely online, but in the interest of protecting the history of the organization, we’ve been very adamant about continuing the tradition of putting out a print copy.” The Daily Local The Daily Local newspaper has been in continuous publication since 1872 as a daily (no small feat indeed), and the paper added a Sunday edition in 1986. It has a daily circulation of more than 25,000 and a Sunday reach of more than 28,000. The Daily Local still offers home delivery in a market where that service is declining, as well as a strong online and social media presence that offers local and national news, sports, business, classifieds and entertainment. Our favorite fact about The Daily Local is that it once employed Pulitzer Prize-winning syndicated humor columnist, Dave Barry, an experience described thusly on his website: “He graduated in 1969 and eventually got a job with a newspaper named—this is a real name—The Daily Local News, in West Chester, Pa., where he covered a series of incredibly dull municipal meetings, some of which are still going on.” The newspaper is owned by the Journal Register Company, which is based in Yardley, but it retains the independence of its “local” name. We contacted the paper’s editor for a quote to include in this story, but he declined to comment. Oh well; we’re still wishing them another 140 years of success.
january 2014 | thewcpress.com
41
One bite and you’re hooked
ramsheadbarandgrill.com 40 East Market Street 484-631-0241
It’s hard to beat our California BLT with tots and an IPA
42
the wc press | voice of the borough
Bartender of the
Month
Photo
Luke O'Brien
Interview
Dan Mathers
There are a few things that Brad Norris of Ram’s Head knows, and good beer is chief among them. How long have you been working here? For three years. How’d you get your start? I was serving tables here. What were you doing before that? I was doing general contracting work, and I didn’t like my boss, so I quit, and I came here for an interview. Seems like a huge change in careers. How’d it work out? It worked out great. It’s a totally different career, and I love it. Were there any aspects of your previous career that helped you when you started here? Any similarities? Nope. None at all. Well … except contractors drink a lot. Then how’d you get the job? I’m good with people. I can bullshit with just about anybody. Plus, this is where I would come to drink–this was home base. I knew the staff and the managers, and we already had good relationships. How long was it before you made the transition from serving to bartending? It was probably about a year before I started picking up shifts behind the bar, and about a year and a half before I was bartending full time. That seems like a really short time to go from no experience to bartending. I was just in the right place at the right time. There were a few people ahead of me who were ready to move on, and I was ready to step up. Was bartending always the goal? Once I started here, yeah. I wanted to be behind the bar pretty much right from day one, because seeing it from the other side of the bar, it always looked like fun. What was the hardest thing to pick up? All those stupid shots–those mixed shots with like ten ingredients. What’s the most complicated drink you have to make? It’s gotta be something off of our new cocktail menu. There are drinks on there with like, wasabi and cucumber and all kinds of crazy things. Are there any drinks off the new menu
you like? The blueberry mojito. It’s definitely a pain to make —you have to muddle a whole bunch of fruit — but it looks great and it tastes great. Do you sell a lot of fancy cocktails here? Not a whole lot. We mostly sell craft beer. That’s what we push: good beer and good food. Are you really into craft beers? That’s mainly what brought me here. What are some of your favorites? Well, I love the fact that we always have Bells Two-Hearted IPA on draft. It’s kind of rare to find it anywhere else, but we always
have it, and it’s one of my favorite beers. It’s got to be the best-smelling beer of all time. Yeah. It’s delicious. Any others? Well, we have so many great beers come through our bar, and I get to try all of them. Sounds like you have a hard job. Yeah. Drinking all this beer can be hard, but we work around it. The job here is knowing beers and knowing how to describe them and compare them for our clients. I’m sure it takes a lot of effort. Yeah, I do a lot of it. Drinking? Yeah …
january 2014 | thewcpress.com
43
My New Year’s Resolution: Get More Excercise. Will you call PetCare Group for me?
PETCARE GROUPINC
SAFE AT HOME, WHILE YOU’RE AWAY!
44
the wc press | voice of the borough
Book a dog walking session 610-738-2273
| petcaregroup.com
“
Nich Boutique keeps you ahead of the fashion curve with two of this month's best looks
The
Look
How was your 2013? Was it full of adventure and excitement or stagnant and dull? If you say dull, then it’s time to kick if off 2014 with a bright new outlook! And how about we start with that wardrobe... We hope you haven’t packed away your colorful closet for the entire winter season because neons are still really big. It’s hard to feel down on yourself when you’re wearing a bright and cheery color for the day. Whether it’s a touch of neon pattern, or a Day-Glow sweater, it’s time to wear it now and feel good about standing out! Need to tone down your neon? Add a scarf to break up the color with a little pattern! Want to add extra detail to your Aztec sweater? Grab a skinny beaded headband and boho up the look! Either way, don’t let yourself get stuck in a color rut. It’s a bright new year!
"
Don’t pack away those bright colors– neon is still in! Outfit One
Outfit Two
Kit Sweater
Aztec Sweater
by BB Dakota, $72
Flex Infinity Scarf by Judy’s, $20
Hi-Rise Denim by STS Blue, $58 Photo Luke O'Brien
by Ya, $38
Basic Black Cami
by Niki Biki, $12
Gold Headband
by Oh Hey Chrisi, $20 Story Kristy Mak
january 2014 | thewcpress.com
45
Pr iles:
chester county
CLOTHING
e 1800
Open November 23, 2013 through August 2014 The nationally recognized clothing collection of CCHS will be highlighted in this first comprehensive installation in more than 20 years. Spectacular high style pieces, Quaker plain dress, and ordinary work clothing of women, men and children will tell the stories of fashionable lifestyles, women’s health, and social reform movements of the 19th century. Come to appreciate pieces that are familiar and some that are new acquisitions never exhibited before. SupporT generouSly provided by: Coby FoundaTion, lTd. and FaSHion arCHiveS and MuSeuM oF SHippenSburg univerSiTy
CHeSTer CounTy HiSToriCal SoCieTy 225 n. HigH ST. WeST CHeSTer, pa 19380 610-692-4800 CHeSTerCoHiSToriCal.org
46
the wc press | voice of the borough
ON EXHIBIT
Chester County Clothing of the
s
PHOTOS: Amy Tucker Photography STORY: Laurie Rofini & Ellen Endslow
t
For some historians, clothing is the ideal looking glass through which to view the past. A dress can represent much more than a dress. It can express the culture, societal attitudes, and ideals of a given time.
his approach has come to West Chester through the Chester County Historical Society’s new exhibition, “Profiles: Chester County Clothing of the 1800s.” The exhibit, whose support was generously provided by The Coby Foundation, Ltd. and the Fashion Archives and Museum of Shippensburg University, offers a rare and exciting opportunity to learn about the people living in Chester County in the 1800s through the clothes that they wore. Over the last five months, ten volunteers meticulously dressed over forty mannequins to represent everything from the everyday to the elegant. The exhibition, which is on view through August 2014, is divided into four distinct time periods and styles, emphasizing the changes in clothing and culture throughout the 100 years featured in “Profiles.” Entering the exhibit, visitors are greeted by the styles of the first time period, known as Neoclassical or Empire, which extended from 1810to 1825. Examples of columnar dresses illustrate this early part of the century. The style had a simple profile and high waistband for women and men, and all clothing was constructed with needle in hand.
The antebellum era of 1826 to 1860 featured the Romantic style. During this time, the popularity of Godey’s Lady’s Book and other American women’s magazines spread fashion trends of grand profiles with billowing sleeves, pleated bodices, and lower, tighter waist bands. For men, decorative waistcoats (what we now call vests) added a personal touch to once uniformly simple jackets and breeches. The distinctive plain dress of Quakers became more obvious by comparison. The third section of the exhibit, 1861-1880, demonstrates the impact of the sewing machine. Elaborate dresses were in demand. Dresses evolved from a large, circular skirt to a narrow skirt with a bustle on the back. Corsets were tighter, and women’s dress reformers reacted by advocating looser fitting clothing. Men’s clothing, by contrast, became much simpler and available at local dry goods stores. As visitors enter the last part of the exhibit, they will encounter the most elaborate dresses yet. At the end of the century, from 1881 to 1899, high fashion still relied on customized dresses that were one last flourish of over-the-top design. However, department stores began to replace dressmakers and home sewing for the local middle class. Men’s clothing was increasingly available as ready-made. Mass produced, simpler profiles became the norm, and hand-made clothes began to seem outmoded. Even distinctive Quaker plain dress began to disappear. The world of handmade clothing had changed dramatically.
On April 12, 2014 CCHS will host a symposium, “Elegant and Everyday: Clothing from the Collection” featuring lectures by nationally known history scholars and behind-the-scenes tours. For more information or to arrange a guided tour of the exhibit, contact CCHS at 610-692-4800 or eendslow@chestercohistorical.org. january January 2014 | thewcpress.com
47
48
the wc press | voice of the borough
We are proud to offer print version of everyone’s favorite bar game... and you won’t have to pay 50 cents. You can actually WIN money. Compare the two photos at right. They may look the same, but there are seven differences between the two. Find those seven differences and identify the items that have been changed. Then send an email to contests@ thewcpress.com listing those items. You’ll be entered to win a $25 gift card to a local business. Winners will be chosen at random, and their name will be posted on Facebook along with the solution at the end of the month. So make sure to like us and follow along if you want to play. Enjoy!
Can you spot the seven changes to this photo of Quaker Restaurant? (Other than the fact that this space is now Ryan’s Pub.)
Facebook.com/thewcpress
1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7.
january 2014 | thewcpress.com
49
50
the wc press | voice of the borough
Music from the
Past
DJ Romeo curates a playlist that pays respect to it’s history. The following list comprises the most popular cover songs of all time.
History has shown us that not every musical hit is unique to the artist. Some of the most successful producers in the world find their inspiration in music from the past. Mega-superstars such as Diddy and Kanye West have made their careers off sampling sounds that were forgotten by some and never before heard by others. But sampling, redoing and covering isn’t a process confined to the hip hop industry. The following list represents what I consider to be the most successful covers of all time and showcases songs from across the musical spectrum. djromeo@thewcpress.com
“I was simply blown away when I found out that Kurt Cobain liked my work...” –David Bowie Nirvana – “The Man Who Sold the World” (David Bowie) Whitney Houston – “I Will Always Love You” (Dolly Parton) Sinead O’Connor – “Nothing Compares to You” (Prince) Darius Rucker – “Wagon Wheel” (Bob Dylan) Fugees – “Killing Me Softly” (Roberta Flack) Janis Joplin – “Me & Bobby McGee” (Kris Kristofferson) Johnny Cash – “Hurt” (Nine Inch Nails) Manfred Mann – “Blinded by the Light” (Bruce Springsteen) Joan Jett – “I Love Rock ’N’ Roll” (Arrows) Elvis – “Hound Dog” (Big Mama Thorton) Jimi Hendrix – “All Along the Watchtower” (Bob Dylan) Jeff Buckley – “Hallelujah” (Leonard Cohen) Soft Cell – “Tainted Love” (Gloria Jones) Eric Clapton – “Cocaine” (JJ Cale) The Clash – “I Fought the Law” (The Crickets) Six Pence None the Richer – “There She Goes” (The Las) Aretha Franklin – “Respect” (Otis Redding) Cyndi Lauper – “Girls Just Want to Have Fun” (Robert Hazard) Frank Sinatra – “I’ve Got You Under My Skin” (Virginia Bruce) UB40 – “Red Red Wine” (Neil Diamond)
janaury 2014 | thewcpress.com
51
thewcpress.com/advertise thewcpress.com/subscribe
don’t miss an issue in 2014
History january Ifebruary Love My Pet Music march Wellness april Wedding may Summer Fun june 40 julyUnder 40 Fashion august Food september Oktoberfest october Men of WC november Holiday december
janaury 2014 | thewcpress.com
53