Good to Know

Fido Fact

During Jack Russell terrier races, at Willowdale Steeplechase and elsewhere, ever wondered about the pups’ namesake? As an Oxford undergrad, Rev. John Russell (1795–1883) came across a rough-coated terrier that soon became his hunting partner and matriarch of the Parson Russell terrier breed (close relative of Jack Russells). Though Russell was a founding member of the U.K. Kennel Club, the Jack Russell terrier wasn’t officially recognized by the American Kennel Club until 2012 — almost 200 years later. CountryLife.co.uk.

Calling All Artists

Bells Across PA is asking artists, from the amateur to the acclaimed, to submit designs to be used on bell sculptures as part of the national America 250 celebration. Fiberglass bell sculptures will be transformed by local artists and art groups whose designs are selected. Painters, sculptors, craftsmen, multimedia artists and other wildly creative people are all encouraged to apply. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis through December 31, 2024. America250PA.org/PPE:_Bells_Across_PA.

Mom’s Moment

Instead of cut flowers or store-bought candy, give your mother what she really wants on May 12 — time with you. Our area’s many gorgeous gardens beckon visitors with dazzling displays of spring bulbs and flowering trees. So, head for Kennett’s Longwood Gardens, Wayne’s Chanticleer, Pottstown’s Welkinweir, Devon’s Jenkins Arboretum or another local destination to walk and talk as you enjoy the glory of spring in the Mid-Atlantic. Check admission requirements. LongwoodGardens.org. ChanticleerGarden.org. Welkinweir.org. JenkinsArboretum.org.

Hulk Sighting

Delco residents have been seeing stars — the Hollywood kind. The creators of HBO’s Mare of Easttown have returned to the area to film a sequel series, Task, starring Mark Ruffalo as a complicated FBI agent from Philadelphia. The crew has been filming in Ridley, Marcus Hook and Aston, and Ruffalo himself was spotted grabbing lunch at A Cut Above Deli in Newtown Square. Stay tuned. HBO.com.

Attention Readers!

Several local authors have new books out. WCU prof Kristine S. Ervin’s memoir Rabbit Heart reflects on her mother’s murder and has garnered buzz from the Washington Post and New York Times. Wayne’s Tracy Viola shares the story of her teenage drug addiction and recovery in Pretty Wrecked. For the kiddos, there’s The Tear Box by Sheila Startup and Planet of the Lil Beans by David Levi, both West Chester residents.
KristineSErvin.com. TracyViolaAuthor.com. MascotBooks.com. POTLB.com.