November Good to Know

YMC Yay!

With 2,400 national locations, YMCA is the largest nonprofit community service organization in America. While many people know about the YMCA, fewer know that YMCAs have a 7th Grade Initiative—a complimentary one-year youth membership offered to all 7th graders that includes use of all facilities. Due to Covid-19, YMCAs are extending this offer to 8th graders for the 2021–2022 school year. Register with a student ID or report card and let the fun begin! YMCABW.org.

Project Plenty.

Get creative at your Thanksgiving table with a DIY cornucopia. This horn of plenty will add another homemade touch for this year’s family gathering. Simply mold chicken wire into the shape of a horn, create a papier mâché layer, using burlap, to cover the wire mold and wrap with straw or raffia. Stuff full of seasonal veggies and gourds, and you’ve built your bounty. You’ll have a cornucopia of thanks for your table. Pinterest.com. Advanced ideas at MarthaStewart.com.

Lenape Lands.

November is Native American Heritage Month and a perfect time to learn more about the Brandywine Valley’s rich Native American history, including the Lenape, a tribe that lived in villages along waterways in the area. Places like West Chester University were built on Lenape land, and many local towns show homage to that tribe with Native names, like Pocopson and Manayunk. Check out the Native history of your town this month and the diverse cultures and traditions of its past. WesttownPA.org.

Fall in Love.

Although wedding planning can be stressful, the Chester County History Center’s Fall Wedding Showcase, November 14th from 1 to 4 p.m., will make planning a breeze. Bring your special someone and talk to providers, enjoy drinks, a fashion show and grand prize baskets. Vendors include local restaurants, venues, music makers and décor fit for a dream. Create a wedding you’ll fall in love with. Tickets are $5/couple and include two drinks. 225 N. High St., West Chester. DowntownWestChester.com

Candle Crazy.

Did you know that 35% of candle sales in the U.S. happen during the holidays? Whether you prefer Yankee or homemade, we always like to go local. One local option is Homestead Studios in Parkesburg, featuring homemade soy candles, locally sourced produce and farmhouse décor. Check out their restored furniture and try a workshop to create your own décor. Before you leave, be sure to pick a candle for your scent of the season. HomesteadStudios.com.