Good to Know: August 2025
Just a few things we’d thought you’d like to know this month
New Digs
Stop by the new Chester County Welcome Center, recently relocated from its longtime home near Longwood Gardens to the Historic Chester County Courthouse. Learn about things to do, places to stay and eat in Chester County through interactive experiences, including a mini-theater, AR room, itinerary builder and touch-screen table. Don’t miss the room-sized map of the county on the floor (scan locations with QR codes) plus local art. 21 W. Market St., West Chester. BrandywineValley.com
Rebranding News
Growing from humble origins as a small volunteer orchestra in 1940, the Kennett Symphony is now the Brandywine Valley Symphony. Chester County’s only professional symphony orchestra will continue creating unforgettable musical experiences locally, regionally and soon on one of the world’s most prestigious stages: Carnegie Hall. Plus, the Scott Arboretum is now the Scott Arboretum & Gardens, reflecting its 15 distinct gardens across Swarthmore College’s 425-acre campus. BVSymphony.org. ScottArboretum.org
Savvy Startups
Check out these two startups from tech-savvy locals. Started by a Philly-area mom, Poppins is a digital health app offering 24/7 access to licensed pediatric clinicians via text, on-demand parent coaching and an integrated platform combining behavioral and medical care. And Media native Robbie Verna created Let’s Rallie, an app that provides interactive features to local events, allowing attendees to access schedules, interactive maps, notifications, raffles, scavenger hunts and more. HeyPoppins.com/PA. LetsRallie.com
Happy Dog Day
Own a rescue dog? Give them a big treat on August 1, aka DOGust 1st, the universal birthday for shelter dogs, which often don’t have a recorded birthday. According to the ASPCA, 4.2 million shelter pets were adopted last year, including around 2 million dogs, so there’s plenty to celebrate. August 1 also kicks off National Dog Month, so party with your pooch all month long! AnimalHumaneSociety.org
Knit Wits
Calling all crafters! Retired Malvern kindergarten teacher Teri Hower has teamed up with Phoenixville’s Purls of Wisdom owner Jennifer McKay to open a sister store in Devon. Main Line Purls offers yarn and knitting supplies, as well as crafting classes and popular Thursday Stitch Nights. Join them for Knitting or Crochet 101, Granny Squares Class (August 9), Pressed Flower Hat Class (September 13) and more. 18 Berkley Rd. #11, Devon. MainLinePurls.com