Good to Know: September 2026

Game On!

Between the many fall equestrian events featured in this issue, saddle up for the final Brandywine Polo matches. On Friday evenings and Sunday afternoons through September, pack your lawn chairs — or your best tailgate spread — and head to the scenic 122-acre polo grounds for fast-paced action on horseback. Plus, join them on September 5 and 19 for Saturday night Starlight Polo. Tickets, $15 online, $20 at the gate. 232 Polo Rd., Toughkenamon. BrandywinePolo.com

Inked in History

Congrats to West Chester tattoo artist Brannan Clift, who recently broke the Guinness World Record for the longest tattoo session. To celebrate the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence in 1776, the owner of aptly named Liberty Bell Tattoo and Piercing embarked on a marathon 76-hour session, inking a single client in Clift’s signature black-and-white style, complete with America 250-inspired imagery. 124 E. Gay St. @LibertyBellTattoo

Pollinator Paradise

Cheers to two local efforts protecting native pollinators. At Bondsville Mill Historic Park in Downingtown, volunteers recently tagged and released its 1,000th monarch butterfly since becoming a certified monarch waystation in 2022. Meanwhile, the Chester County Library in Exton is now home to a biodiverse native garden supporting pollinators, birds and local wildlife, with plans for a second garden at the Henrietta Hankin Branch this fall. BondsvilleMillPark.org; CCLS.org

Worth the Read

Get inspired by local author Mary Cairns’ new book, “Where the Girls Bloom.” Sixteen years ago, Cairns visited one of India’s poorest villages, where she met girls limited by poverty, child marriage and few educational opportunities. That trip led to a lasting commitment to Pardada Pardidi Educational Society, a school that’s opened doors for thousands. Cairns’ book shares the girls’ stories — and how profoundly they changed her life, too. Find it at your local independent bookstore.

A Fond Farewell

After 43 years in business, Sandy Riper, owner of Sunset Hill Jewelers & Fine Arts Gallery, is preparing to retire. For over four decades, Riper has helped shape downtown West Chester, serving on local business boards, pioneering the semi-annual Gallery Walk and establishing the Harry Dunn Memorial Art Scholarship. She’s also one of County Lines’ inaugural Women Leaders. Stay tuned for the future of this iconic storefront — and its giant holiday red bow. 23 N. High St. SunsetHillJewelers.com