Hello Friends,
UPDATE
I would love to say that things are back to normal, but we all are too aware that “normal” doesn’t really exist at this time. I hope that everyone’s family and friends have remained safe and healthy and continue to do so.
I am still very excited to say that we have at least become COVID GREEN!
Green in our COVID environment still has many restrictions and precautions that need to be adhered to going forward. HYS continues to follow the CDC and PA Health Department Guidelines. We require anyone entering any HYS facilities to wear a face mask. We require proper social distancing and ask you to follow good hygiene precautions by washing your hands often.
So, what green does mean? It allows us to start classes, workshops and kiln firings once again!
Events and event rentals are open and available! All of these things must, of course, follow proper protocol, which still means masks, social distancing, and possible paperwork to sign. But I have a feeling, as many are saying, that this is our “new normal.” Please remember that our goal has always been and continues to be to keep everyone entering HYS safe.
We have good news about new things happening that take advantage of our beautiful landscapes. We’ll be adding more plein air classes. What a fantastic way to relieve today’s stresses by painting outside in the open air at one of HYS’s beautiful locations! We are also adding to our normal venue options small, outdoor “garden party” rentals in our courtyard.
In addition, we are reviewing the possibility of holding some of our previously canceled events in a reinvented fashion in the Fall. Check our website for class, workshop and lecture registrations, and for more information on new happenings. You may also see some new online classes in the future.
OUR PLEA FOR YOUR SUPPORT
As with so many of you, the shutdown months for the pandemic have been very hard from an income perspective for us. We make nearly all of our funds that carry us throughout the year in the Spring and Summer months. We normally raise funds through events, classes, shows and other activities. Those funds help us provide free events, history tours and maintain the 142-acre property, buildings and grounds. There are NO state workers that come to HYS to maintain this beautiful property. We actually have a very small staff and mostly part-time team members.
COVID hit HYS at the WORST time possible for us. We took a massive hit to income. We now find ourselves in a large deficit and need your help. Please go to our website and donate to support us.
I have to say I find it curious that such a large number of folks who visit HYS are under a BIG misconception. Many people think we are a public place–maybe because we are historic? We are NOT a public entity, a State Park or State/Federally funded. HYS is a private organization under a non-profit 501c3 designation. We are only funded by our friends, supporters and activities. We have to find ways to get the funds to maintain everything that you enjoy throughout HYS and our grounds. SO, IF YOU LIKE HYS, PLEASE HELP SUPPORT US!!!
We are thrilled that we have so many people who enjoy and take advantage of all HYS has to offer on a daily basis. BUT, we can’t make all of this happen without the money to do so. It has been so nice to see so many familiar and new faces continuing to come to HYS to enjoy the trails and the wonderful flower gardens, and all the beauty that is Historic Yellow Springs. We hope that you continue to come and explore.
Your donations are indispensable, now more than ever and we thank you for helping us keep this 300-year-old historical property thriving!
Regards,
Karen
Executive Director, HYS
Please continue to follow suggested guidelines. The following links are available for you to easily access information. We invite you to visit:
Chester County Health Department: https://chesco.org/224/Health
PA Department of Health: https://www.health.pa.gov/topics/disease/Pages/Coronavirus.aspx
CDC: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-nCoV/index.html
WHO: https://www.who.int/
We will continue to monitor and discuss the situation and keep you informed if our plans need to change. If you are a Pennsylvania resident and are experiencing symptoms or believe you have been exposed to the virus, call 1-877-PA-HEALTH.
Your donations support our historic village and educational programs dedicated to the arts, history and nature. Every dollar counts. Every gift matters. Help to preserve over 300 years of local history, rich artistic heritage and inspiring natural beauty.
Create, discover and develop your skills in the fine arts, including painting, drawing, printmaking, mixed media, sculpture and ceramics in the peaceful and scenic village of Historic Yellow Springs. Classes are offered for all ages and skill levels.
Join us for exciting events and exhibits at Historic Yellow Springs. We host events year round, including the Yellow Springs Art Show, Fine Arts and Crafts Show, HYS Members Show, Town Tours and Village Walks, Jazz at the Springs and HYS Holiday Stroll.
The Washington is ready to host your special event. With over 2000 square feet in the main room, it can easily hold 150 seated guests and have plenty of room for dancing. Find out more about its history, beauty and elegance.
