What To Do: Do Portugal Circus and The Big Game

By Denny Dyroff, Entertainment Editor, The Times
Do Portugal Circus
Watermelons are a summertime thing locally.
However, if some nice big melons appear on the shelf at a local farmer’s market this month, you probably will enjoy the import from Mexico.
Touring circuses with shows under a huge tent is a summertime thing in this area.
However, if a top-flight touring Mexican circus brings its under-a-heated...
On Stage: Vavrik leads cast of ‘Something Rotten’ at Candlelight

By Denny Dyroff, Entertainment Editor, The Times
JJ Vavrik
“Something Rotten” is a Tony Award-nominated musical written by brothers Wayne and Karey Kirkpatrick. It was a situation where two brothers wrote a musical about two brothers writing a musical.
The hilarious comedy is running now through February 23 at the Candlelight Dinner Theatre (2208 Millers Road, Arden, Delaware, www.candlelighttheatredelaware.org).
The...
Becoming The Best U: Advice on love and dating

By Nancy Plummer, Columnist, The Times
Question: I’m a widow finally ready to date but I’ve never tried online dating and am not sure of the modern expectations. My question is, who pays for the first date?
Abbey – Wayne, PA
Dear Abbey,
I am so sorry for your loss. It takes immense strength to navigate widowhood and to put yourself out there again. I am very happy for you!
This is a great,...
Smith appointed to Court of Common Pleas

Mackenzie W. Smith
Today, the Pennsylvania Senate confirmed the nomination of Mackenzie W. Smith, Esq., as judge on the Chester County Court of Common Pleas.
“I am incredibly grateful to Governor Shapiro for appointing me and to the Pennsylvania Senate for confirming my nomination to the Court of Common Pleas, and I look forward to continuing to serve our Chester County community,” Smith said....
Pepitone named CCIU Dir. of Safety and Security

Bill Pepitone
The Chester County Intermediate Unit (CCIU) announced Bill Pepitone as their new director of safety and security. Pepitone’s appointment to the position was approved at the CCIU Board of Directors Meeting on January 15, and he began the role on January 27, 2025.
“We are proud to welcome Bill Pepitone as our new director of safety and security. His extensive expertise and commitment...
Moskowitz appointed Chair of the Schuylkill River Passenger Rail Authority

Chester County Commissioner Marian Moskowitz (center), newly selected Chair of the Schuylkill River Passenger Rail Authority.
Chester County Commissioner Marian Moskowitz was appointed Chair of the Schuylkill River Passenger Rail Authority (SRPRA) earlier this week at the Authority’s January meeting. For the past two years, Commissioner Moskowitz has served as Vice-Chair for the Authority, and...
Coatesville names Huf as new Fire Chief

Peter Huff was sworn in as Fire Chief of the City of Coatesville by Judge Gregory Hines.
The City of Coatesville announced the appointment of Peter Huf as the City’s new Fire Chief. After a detailed vetting process conducted by an advisory group comprising members of Civil Service, City administration, the Firefighters Union and City Council, Huf’s nomination was unanimously approved by City Council.
He...
On Stage: Vanessa Collier comes to Sellersville with songs from new album

By Denny Dyroff, Entertainment Editor, The Times
Vanessa Collier
Vanessa Collier released five studio albums over the last decade and then followed with a live album in September 2023. Exactly a year later, Collier treated fans to another studio album.
Collier’s sixth album, “Do It My Own Way,” was released September 13, 2024 via Phenix Fire Records. Now, Collier’s fans can get to hear tracks...
County permanently preserved 1,240-plus acres in 2024

The 89-acre Kestrel Hill Preserve, one of the preservation initiatives completed through the Chester County Open Land Preservation Partnership Program in 2024.
Chester County Parks + Preservation announced this week the total number of acres preserved in 2024. Through partnerships with municipalities, conservancies and the state, more than 1,240 acres were confirmed as permanent open space in 2024...
Pay attention: we’re in uncharted territory