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  • 💰 Chesco Microgrant Program | 🎻 96th Annual Fiddlers' Picnic | 💄 Ulta Employees Threatened

💰 Chesco Microgrant Program | 🎻 96th Annual Fiddlers' Picnic | 💄 Ulta Employees Threatened

Downingtown Local Pulse Issue #491

Author

Chesco Sean
30 Jul

In partnership with

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Chester County Microgrant Program Tops $266K in Support for Small Businesses

EXTON, PA — The New Business Champions Microgrant program in Chester County has surpassed $266,000 in funding distributed to emerging entrepreneurs since its launch in 2021. The initiative offers grants of up to $2,000 to businesses with fewer than 10 employees, helping cover professional services such as business planning, accounting, and marketing. Over four years, 175 entrepreneurs have received support, with this year’s cycle awarding 26 of 53 applicants. Officials emphasize that the program not only provides financial relief but also opens access to advisers and mentors who can guide young businesses through critical early decisions. Preference is given to applicants who face social or economic disadvantages, reflecting a focus on equitable opportunities for growth. Applications for the next funding round are currently closed but expected to reopen in the future.

New Look for West Bradford Fleet as Gray Truck Hits the Streets

WEST BRADFORD TWP — Residents of West Bradford Township may notice a new look on trash collection day as the township debuts its first refuse and recycling truck in a gray color scheme. The unmarked vehicle is part of a planned refresh of the fleet and will be fully lettered in the coming weeks. Township officials say the change is purely cosmetic and will not affect collection schedules or service. The updated design is expected to gradually roll out to other vehicles over time.

Music and Tradition Fill the Air at Annual Fiddlers’ Picnic in Hibernia Park

COATESVILLE, PA — Chester County will celebrate the 96th Old Fiddler’s Picnic on Saturday, August 9, at Hibernia County Park in Coatesville. The free event brings together musicians of all levels for a day of live performances, impromptu jam sessions, and family-friendly activities. Guests can enjoy folk tunes played on fiddles, banjos, guitars, and mandolins while browsing craft vendors, sampling food truck fare, and joining wagon rides or children’s activities. Attendees are encouraged to bring chairs or blankets, and musicians are welcome to join in the music or sign up for stage time. Pets on leashes are permitted, and parking is free. The tradition, now in its 96th year, remains one of Chester County’s most enduring summer gatherings. Info at https://www.chesco.org/2415/Old-Fiddlers-Picnic

Police Seek Suspect After Threats Made to Ulta Employees in Exton

EXTON, PA — Police in West Whiteland Township are looking for a woman in connection with terroristic threats made against Ulta Beauty employees on July 29. The incident took place at the store on E. Swedesford Road around 2:35 p.m. Authorities have released images of the suspect and are urging anyone with information to contact Officer R. Melendez at [email protected]. No injuries have been reported, and the investigation is ongoing.

Local Entrepreneur Jenna Dobbyn Joins Jenny Leigh on Good to Know Podcast

DOWNINGTOWN, PA — A new episode of the Good to Know in Chester County podcast spotlights Jenna Dobbyn, founder of The Iron Bird in Chester Springs. Hosted by Jenny Leigh of VRA Realty, the episode delves into Dobbyn’s shift from a corporate career to running a boutique dedicated to creativity and community. The Iron Bird offers handpicked gifts, home furnishings, and a growing selection of men’s items, along with seasonal markets that showcase local artisans. Listeners can hear about the store’s origins, its distinctive shopping experience, and upcoming events like the Summer Artisan Market and Christmas Village. The episode is now streaming on Chestercounty.tv and social platforms.

Upcoming local events…

Eagleview Farmers’ Market (Eagleview) - July 31st, 3pm-6pm

The Amazing Spaghetti (Downingtown) - July 31st, 6pm

National Night Out Concert: Chico’s Vibe (Caln twp) - Aug 5th, 6pm

17th Annual Golf Outing and Dinner (Downingtown) - Aug 8th, 11am-8am

Caln Summer Series: Wonka (Caln twp) - Aug 8th, 7:30pm

Cars and Coffee and Donuts (Downingtown) - Aug 9th, 9am-11am

Tomato Fest at Downingtown Farmers’ Market (Downingtown) - Aug 9th, 9am-1pm

96th Old Fiddler’s Picnic (Coatesville) - Aug 9th, 10am-4pm

Roots and Blues Festival (Kennett Square) - Aug 9th, 11-6:45pm

Free Summer Concert: The Flying Komorowski Brothers (West Bradford) - Aug 21st, 6pm


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