On Stage (Bonus): Crowded Streets puts its own spin on DMB

By Denny Dyroff, Staff Writer, The Times
For a musician, playing the same songs on stage over and over again for years can become boring – even for an established band with several top hits.
Imagine what it’s like for members of long-time cover bands who have to play someone else’s songs over and over again. The rut becomes even deeper.
What To Do: First Friday fun for everyone

By Denny Dyroff, Staff Writer, The Times
The first Friday of the month is a good time to spend an evening in Kennett Square, West Chester or Lancaster – a time to enjoy special First Friday activities.
Kennett Square will celebrate First Friday with its Art Stroll (downtown Kennett Square, http://historickennettsquare.com) from 6-9 p.m. on August 4.
The event celebrates the local art scene with...
On Stage: Phoebe Legere really is unique

By Denny Dyroff, Staff Writer, The Times
Phoebe Legere, who will headline a show on August 4 at The Steel City Coffee House (203 Bridge Street, Phoenixville, 610-933-4043, www.steelcitycoffeehouse.com), is a talented singer, songwriter, instrumentalist — a multi-talented artist who is like no other.
The descriptive word “unique” is often misused – frequently as an unsubstantiated hyperbole....
Don’t Retire, ReFire: Hello 65!

By Gail Supplee Tatum, Columnist, The Times
Some of you may be approaching 65, some of you may be past 65, and some of you may be years away from 65. Wherever you are in relation to age 65, it’s a number that brings many emotions, good, bad or uncertain. For me, the first positive change I that comes to mind is Medicare. I have been waiting for this for a year! Being Self-Employed, I have paid...
Online daters are wealthier and better educated

By Nancy Plummer, Columnist, The Times
Yes, I love research, data, and statistical analysis that prove my own theories. In fact, I’m quite arrogant at times when I’m convinced I’m right about something – especially when it comes to dating.
As you all have read in my columns, I keep asserting the fact that there are many erudite men and women to be found on these online dating sites. Well,...
Art Watch: August ‘First Friday’ Gallery openings and artistic fresh starts

By Lele Galer, Columnist, The Times
By now most everyone knows that studies have shown that having some creative outlet in your life increases longevity and personal happiness; but where to begin? This August, consider signing up for Fall classes at the many art associations in our area, or a class with private art teachers, or going back to school, or entering an art competition. The greater...
Costello, Smucker appear to buck Trump, back bipartisan healthcare plan

By Mike McGann, Editor, The Times
Two local congressman — Lloyd Smucker and Ryan Costello — say a moderate, bipartisan group of House members they belong to, the Problem Solvers Caucus, have reached an agreement on a package of fixes for the Affordable Care Act, a package that could provide a framework for a true bipartisan fix for the healthcare marketplace.
After the U.S. Senate rejected...
How many lipsticks is too many?

By Kelly Hockenberry, Columnist, The Times
For those of you not addicted to social media platforms, you may not know that there is a complete calendar of Hashtag Holidays. Occasionally, it promotes a specific cause or event but more often it’s just creative way to highlight something fun. For example, yesterday was
#NationalLipstickDay. And, I for one, am I big fan of lipstick.
On Stage (Bonus): The Wrecks bring indy rock to Philly

By Denny Dyroff, Staff Writer, The Times
The Wrecks
On July 29 and 30, Fillmore Philadelphia (1100 Canal Street, Philadelphia, 215-309-0150, www.thefillmorephilly.com) will host the “Rockstar Energy presents: All Time Low – Young Renegades Tour,” a tour which also features SWMRS, Waterparks, The Wrecks
The Wrecks are a Los Angeles-based indie rock band with roots in Thousand Oaks, California....
Don’t forget there are important races in 2017, too

By Mike McGann, Editor, The Times
Tanned, rested and ready — amazing what the blue waters of the Caribbean and lots of odd beverages with paper umbrellas will do for the soul — and ready to jump into the burning dumpster fire that is politics, 2017.
While Republicans in the U.S. Senate debates various health bills that will likely cost them both their Senate majority and the U.S. House —...