Derry Township eNews - October 18, 2024 | |
Board of Supervisor Meeting
The public is welcome to attend the Derry Township Meeting scheduled on Tuesday, October 22, 2024, at 7:00 pm. This meeting will be held in person at the Derry Township Administration Building, 600 Clearwater Road, Hershey, PA 17033. The agenda will be available on the website. Click on the website.
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Public Safety Announcement:
SCAM ALERT
The Derry Township Police Department is warning residents of a recent scam targeting our community. Individuals, posing as Derry Township Police Officers, have been contacting residents, claiming they have missed jury duty and must pay fines through unconventional methods. These scammers are using technology to spoof our Department's phone number, making it appear as though the call is coming from our agency. Please be aware that we do not handle jury duty matters, and we will never ask you to pay fines or costs by purchasing money orders, gift cards, or bitcoin. If you receive such a call, do not provide any personal or financial information. Instead, hang up and contact us immediately to verify the legitimacy of the call. We are committed to protecting our community from these fraudulent activities. Remember, it is essential to remain vigilant and cautious when receiving unsolicited calls. If you have any doubts or concerns, please do not hesitate to reach out to us. Stay safe and thank you for your cooperation.
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Single Stream Recycling Guidelines
Waste Management (WM) allows you to place all your recyclables in one container for collection. No sorting is necessary. Recycling items are plastic and glass bottles/containers, aluminum, tin or steel cans, paper products,
and cardboard. Click this link to view single-stream recycling guidelines.
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Township Fall Shred-It Event
Join us for the upcoming Annual Township Fall Shred-It Event! Mark your calendars for Saturday, October 19, 2024, from 8:00 AM to 10:45 AM at the Derry Township Public Works Facility at 650 Clearwater Road. This event is designed exclusively for our residents and is limited to two bags or boxes per household. We encourage all residents to take advantage of this opportunity to dispose of confidential or sensitive documents safely. Don't miss out on this excellent opportunity to safeguard your personal information. We encourage all residents to participate and take advantage of this fantastic event! If you would like more details and to stay informed, you can click the link.
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Township Leaf Collection Schedule
Check out the 2024 Leaf Collection Schedule on our Township website for all the details. Stay informed on pickup dates and guidelines to ensure a smooth collection process. Click the link to access the schedule directly.
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Tree Planting Volunteers Needed
Derry Township and the Derry Environmental Action Committee are planting thirty trees on a Saturday in early November. More volunteers are needed to help plant these trees. Which Saturday will depend on the date of the delivery of the trees, which is not yet known. The trees will be planted between 9:00 AM and about 11:00 AM. Volunteers are asked to wear work clothes, bring drinking water, and a ground shovel. If you are interested, please contact Chuck Gassert at 717-460-7684.
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Public Works - Removal of Recreational Equipment from
Right-of-way
During street sweeping, leaf picking, and snow plowing operations, freestanding basketball nets, soccer goals, and any other sporting equipment located along curbs, in alleys, and the street pose a serious safety issue to the drivers performing their duties either sweeping, collecting leaves, or plowing snow. The Department is asking that this equipment be moved from the roadway and alley, so they do not overhang or protrude into the right-of-way. The Township of Derry will not reimburse for any damage to basketball nets/poles, or any other recreational equipment located within the right-of-way that is damaged while performing the above-listed operations. The Township of Derry will seek full payment for any damage to any equipment caused by recreational equipment located within the right-of-way.
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Township of Derry - Police Department Business Manager - Now Hiring!
The Derry Township Police Department is currently accepting applications for the position of Business Manager. This is a full-time, civilian administrative position responsible for the fiscal management and logistical operation of the Police Department. Click here for more information and an application. The Derry Township Police Department is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of Age, Gender, Marital Status, Race, Color, Creed, National Origin, Political Affiliation, Religion, or Disability. Any person needing accommodation per the Americans with Disabilities Act during the application process contact 717-533-5498.
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State Representative Tom Mehaffie
Join State Representative Tom Mehaffie at the 2024 Veterans Breakfast on Friday, November 8, 2024, from 8:00 to 10:00 am, at the Lower Swatara Fire Department, 1350 Fulling Mill Road, Middletown. Registration is required. Please RSVP online at RepMehaffie.com or call 717-534-1323 ASAP, but no later than October 25, due to limited availability of seating. State-related publications will be distributed at the event.
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PPL Notice
PPL is conducting work in the area from October 14, 2024, to March 31, 2025, to rebuild the existing transmission line. This will involve phases like setting up access roads, installing new steel poles, and stringing wires. Crews may use heavy equipment and helicopters, and all work will take place within PPL’s authorized areas. For safety, residents are asked not to approach the crews, and PPL workers will have ID for identification. No action is required from residents, and no power outages are expected during the project. A detailed letter with more information was sent to affected residents on Friday, September 20, 2024. Please click the link to learn more detailed information.
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NEW Everbridge Sign-Up
Residents, have you registered yet to receive emergency notifications about flash floods, police, fire, and public health emergencies? The Township of Derry has transitioned from Nixle to Everbridge, an advanced Emergency Alert and Notification System. With Everbridge, subscribers can receive critical alerts about police, fire, severe weather, health, and safety. Registration is simple, and you can choose your preferred delivery method: text, email, or phone call. Click the link to register today!
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Township Meetings & Event(s) Calendars | |
Hershey Public Library Events | |
Holiday Gift Wrapping
Supply Drop off
Saturday, Oct. 19, 10:00 am-5:00 pm
Clean out your holiday gift-wrapping supplies and donate them to the library. Help us help you by dropping off your unfinished rolls of wrapping paper, ribbons, and gift tags for the upcoming holiday season. Then save some money and join us on Wrap n' Roll days in December. Please drop off your supplies only on Saturdays during this time to make sure the staff isn't overwhelmed.
Click the link for more details.
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Painted Pumpkin Decorating Contest Pumpkins drop-off during Library Hours, October 19-23
Submit your decorated book-themed pumpkin to the library's first Pumpkin Decorating Contest! This year's theme is your favorite book cover! Click the link for more details, and to REGISTER.
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Once Upon a Pesto
With Jessica Paholsky
Saturday, Oct. 19, 2:00 pm
Jessica will transport you across time and cultures, highlight pesto's significance throughout the Italian Peninsula, and apply what you'll learn to practical kitchen tips. Prepare for an enlightening and delightful, delicious experience. Click the link for more event details.
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Pokémon© Party
Saturday, Oct. 19, 2:00 pm
Join us for a celebration of all things Pokémon©! Bring your cards, bring your games, make crafts, and challenge a friend! Registration is required. Recommended for anyone ages 6+. Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult. Click the link for more details.
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Blood Drive
Central Pennsylvania Blood Bank
Community Blood Drive
Monday, Oct. 21, 11:00 am
Central Pennsylvania Blood Bank community blood drive. There are two ways to schedule your donation appointment: Either go to 717GiveBlood.org and click on Donate Now or Call 1-800-771-0059. Appointments help us improve your donation experience. Walk-ins are welcome; however, donors with appointments will be taken first, which may result in a significant wait time. A form of ID is required to donate. Click the link for more details.
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Gather at the Library
Colorful Conversations:
Coloring and Connecting
Wednesday, Oct. 23, 5:00 pm
Join us for some relaxing coloring and conversation. No skill is required. We have "grown-up" coloring pages and pencils, but please bring your own if you wish. Drop in late, leave early, or whatever works with your schedule. Click the link for more details.
Community Crochet Night
Wednesday, Oct. 23, 6:00 pm
Spend the evening crocheting with Rita and other community crafters. Bring your current project, ask questions, build a community, and make something new! This is a free event for crocheters of all levels. Appropriate for ages 12 and older. Click the link for more details.
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Teen Time
Thursday, Oct. 24, 3:00 pm
Drop into the Teen Space on Thursdays after school for snacks, video games, and crafts! For teens in grades 7-12. Click the link for more details.
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Parks & Recreation Events | |
76th Annual Hershey
Halloween Parade- DTCC 5 PM Closure!
Please be advised that on Thursday, October 24th, the Derry Township Community Center will be closing at 5:00 pm for Halloween Parade preparations. Thanks for your understanding, and we look forward to seeing you at the parade!
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Halloween Parade Guidelines
As we approach the 76th Annual Hershey Halloween Parade on Thursday, October 24th at 7:00 pm, we encourage all observers to follow these five safety guidelines to ensure that everyone is having a safe and enjoyable time during the parade.
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38th Annual Hershey Arts & Craft Show
The 2024 Hershey Arts & Craft Show will host over 150 vendors from Pennsylvania and the surrounding states on Saturday, November 2, 2024. All work is handmade and original! Items for sale will include jewelry, art, soaps,
candles, photography, stained glass, ceramics, wood and metalworking, handmade plush, specialty foods, and seasonal items. We will also host Crema Coffee, 717 Tacos, and Blue Bear BBQ food trucks at the event.
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Fall 2024 Aquatic Group Exercise
Class Schedule
We offer a variety of Aquatic Group Exercise Classes at the Derry Township Community Center. Please check the website for a list of class times and descriptions of each class! Hope to see you in the water soon! Members $5, Residents $10, and Non-Residents $12.50.
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Scuba Diving is Available Now!
Interested in learning how to Scuba Dive? We offer a scuba course each month run by Get-N-Wet Scuba! All registration is through their website.
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Personal Training: Start Your
Journey Today!
Personal training can help jump-start your fitness plan, improve your health and self-image, and motivate you to achieve your goals. Let our trainers provide the help you need! Contact Jamie McGlaughlin, to schedule a FREE consultation with a personal trainer.
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Resiliency & Mobility
Thursdays 11:00 am
Small Fitness Studio
Derry Township Community Center proudly presents, Resiliency & Mobility, a new, functional training Group Ex class that is FREE with membership. Join certified Exercise Physiologist, Deb Tregea, in active stretching and passive rest postures to improve mobility and function, especially getting down and up from the floor.
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Karate Classes
Learn valuable skills in a Karate class that is right for you. Classes for the next session have started and are 4 weeks in length. Those as young as 3 years old and up can find a class that's going to benefit them! Enroll today to join in on the action!
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Pickleball Clinics
Our next session of pickleball clinics is approaching. Classes fill up quickly, so make sure to enroll today!
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Glow Pound
Halloween Workout
Mon. Oct. 28th, 6:45 pm
Tues. Oct. 29th, 9:00 am
Join us for a fun, spooky workout! The Glow Pound Halloween Workout is offered on Monday, October 28, at 6:45 pm and Tuesday, October 29, at 9:00 am. Wear your white or neon clothing, because it glows the best! Accessories like glow bracelets and glow sticks will be provided, but feel free to bring your own! This class is FREE to all members!
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Next Generation Yoga®
with Cindy Lesher
Begins Oct. 29th
Ages 5-7 | 4:30-5:15 pm
Ages 8-10 | 5:30-6:15 pm
Ages 11-15 | 3:15-4:15 pm
Join Cindy Lesher’s Next Generation Yoga® Session #2 fall classes! They’re a playful yet purposeful style of yoga, following adult yoga sequences while incorporating traditional poses, breathwork, mindfulness, relaxation, creativity, learning, visualization, sensory integration, and fun activities. Classes are tailored to specific age groups, using props, music, books, and games to engage students. Register for all classes here!
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Mommy & Me
Begins Oct. 30th
This 6-week class for moms who have been cleared for exercise by their physician is designed to spend quality bonding time with your baby while learning important strength and movement workouts to regain strength postpartum. Rebuild strength in your pelvic floor and learn proper core engagement using your baby’s weight. Begins Wednesdays, October 30 through December 4, 12:00 - 12:45 pm, in the Large Fitness Studio, led by Personal Trainer Brooke Albright. Open to moms with babies who are not yet walking and under 1 year of age. One child per adult. Older children are not allowed to accompany parents to this class. Register today!
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Balance Builders
Begins Nov. 1st
Designed to improve balance, coordination, posture, reaction time, and dynamic control to prevent falls and injuries. Low-impact skill work and fun activities will be blended with functional movements. Great class for pickleball enthusiasts! Register today!
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Intro to Digital Photography
Begins Nov. 5th
Exciting News for Beginner Photographers! Join us for a 6-week Digital Photography Course starting on November 5th, every Tuesday night from 6:00-7:30 pm at the Derry Township Community Center! This course is designed for teens and adults (ages 14 and up) who are ready to dive into the world of photography. Participants must bring a DSLR or mirrorless camera to participate. In this hands-on class, you’ll learn essential techniques, creative tips, and how to get the most out of your camera, all while connecting with fellow photography enthusiasts. Don’t miss this opportunity to capture stunning images and develop your skills! Spaces are limited! Sign up now and bring your camera along for the journey!
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NEW After School Art Classes
Begins Nov. 7th
We are excited to launch our NEW after school art program, geared towards middle school students. Learn about various art techniques and artists as well as materials to create
original artwork in each class. We will explore materials such as watercolors, oil pastels, paint markers, and more. Supplies are included in the cost of the program. Please dress appropriately to get messy! Sign up today!
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SilverSneakers - Open Enrollment
It's that time of year again! Open Enrollment season has begun! To keep everyone informed during the Open Enrollment timeframe, Derry Township Community Center (DTCC) will continue to work with those participating in SilverSneakers. DTCC will continue to only participate with SilverSneakers as we continue to evaluate our participation within the SilverSneakers program. We are not currently looking to expand to other fitness programs at this time. If your insurance company is no longer participating in the SilverSneakers fitness program, please email us at parkshelpdesk@derrytownship.org to let us know when your new insurance fitness program will be going into effect.
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SilverSneakers- Renewing Members
Renew your SilverSneakers membership at the Derry Township Community Center by registering at the Front Desk, calling 717-533-7138, or emailing parkshelpdesk@derrytownship.org. Before registering, verify your eligibility with SilverSneakers and have your 16-digit ID ready. You can also fill out and submit the Renew SilverSneakers Form online, by printing and bringing it in or emailing it. Due to high application volume, the process is time-consuming, so please be patient—it may take 5-7 business days to complete. We look forward to having you as a member! Submit an application today!
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Silver Sneakers- NEW Members
Interested in becoming a SilverSneakers Member at the Derry Township Community Center? Feel free to register at our Front Desk, call 717-533-7138 to speak with our Front
Desk Attendants to assist you, or email us today via the parkshelpdesk@derrytownship.org! Prior to registration, please check your eligibility with SilverSneakers and have your SilverSneakers 16-Digit ID number ready for registration! Your 16-Digit ID number is required for our SilverSneaker Membership registration process. If you would like, you are welcome to fill out our New Member SilverSneakers Form online and submit it to us by printing off the form and bringing it into the facility or emailing it to us. We process each of our applications by creating or updating your account with us, checking your SilverSneakers eligibility, registering your membership, and taking your picture to print off a membership card! This process is time consuming with our high volume of applications, so please be patient with us! It could take 5-7 business days to complete. We would love to have you as a member. Submit an application today!
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Go Mobile with your
Membership Card!
Originally, Derry Township Community Center was assisting our members who wished to have an electronic version of their membership cards to swipe into the facility using the Stocard App. Unfortunately, Stocard has been bought out by another consumer and changing their app to something new. We at DTCC found two new apps to replace the use of the Stocard App. If you are interested in continuing to have access electronically through your phone or smartwatch to swipe in your membership cards, please feel free to download either the VirtualCards app or the Key Ring app! DTCC is not associated with any of these apps professionally. We just research and test to see what is best for our customers to use within our facility. We do not have any contracts or rights to these applications. You are also more than welcome to use any other app as well!
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Community News and Events | |
Leader Center for Active Life
See what's happening at the Leader Center for Active Life. Take a look at their Newsletter! If you would like to learn more about the center, you can visit the website.
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Hershey Hummelstown Art Tour
Begins Oct. 19, 10:00 am
Join local artists at the Hershey Hummelstown Art Tour and celebrate their art on October 19th and 20th, 2024! Visitors can tour the artwork and chat with the artists during this two-day event. Work will be available to take home in various styles and sizes. Something for everyone! Some of our artists will have door prizes, silent auctions, and other special treats for visitors. For more details on this event, click the link.
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Penn State Health
Saturday, Oct. 26, 10:00 am
In observance of National Prescription Drug Take Back Day, Penn State Health invites you to drop off unwanted, unneeded, or expired medications for safe disposal on Saturday, October 26, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Additionally, needles and syringes will be accepted. This event is held in partnership with the DEA and local police departments, including those from Derry Township, East Pennsboro Township, East Hempfield Township, Patton Township, Lower Paxton Township, and North Londonderry Township. Click the link to view drop-off locations.
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Hershey Symphony
Saturday, Oct. 26, 7:30 pm
The Hershey Symphony is pleased to announce the U.S. debut of the all-new official production “Tony Bennett: The Official Musical Celebration,” a spectacular live show honoring the life and music of Tony Bennett, on Saturday, October 26, 2024, at 7:30 PM. For more details on this event, click the link.
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Hershey History Center
Upcoming Events
12th Annual Preservation Tour:
Back to School
Saturday, Nov. 2, 11:00 am & 1:00 pm
The M.S. Hershey Consolidated School, built in 1914 by architect C. Emlen Urban, reflects early 20th-century progressive education. 110 years later, a history tour revisits local school sites with a special appearance by Urban. The tour starts at the Hershey History Center at 10:45 a.m. or 12:45 p.m. and features school bus stops and a meet-and-greet with the architect. For tickets, visit online.
Dick Winters: "In His Own Words"
Thursday, Nov. 7, 6:30 pm
The Hershey History Center will screen a documentary, "In His Own Words," about Major Dick Winters on Thursday, November 7, 2024, at 6:30 p.m. The film features clips from HBO’s Band of Brothers, with commentary by Winters on real-life events behind key scenes. A panel discussion with WWII experts and those who knew Winters will follow. The event, held at Grace United Methodist Church in Hummelstown, PA, is in collaboration with the Central PA WWII Roundtable. No registration is required. For details, contact the Hershey History Center at 717-520-0748 or by visit the website.
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Hershey Horticulture Society
Monday, Nov. 4th, 1:00 pm
Hershey Horticulture Society's November 4th program at 1:00 pm is "PROTECTING YOUR TREES, presented by Brian Chase of Bartlett Tree Service. Free and open to the public, it will be held at Brownstone Lodge, 215 W. Governor Road, Hershey, PA 17033. No preregistration needed. Details are available on the website.
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Penn State College of Medicine
Begins Nov. 11th
The 10th Annual Penn State College of Medicine Addiction Conference is a two-day, hybrid event focusing on translational research and clinical practice aspects of substance use research, treatment, education, and community engagement. It will be held November 11-12 at the University Conference Center on the campus of Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, 500 University Drive, Hershey. A virtual option is also available. The conference is free and open to the community. For registration and additional info, visit online.
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Annual Feed the Need 2024
Tickets on Sale Now!
Feed the Need 2024 will take place on Sunday, Nov. 10, at the Hershey Country Club. This is the only fundraiser for the Hershey Food Bank and Community Outreach. Click on the link to learn more and purchase tickets. Partnerships and Silent Auction items are still being accepted! If you would like details on this event, please check the website.
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Hershey Youth Basketball Association
Registration is Open!
The Hershey Youth Basketball Association (HYBA) season has begun, and registration is now open. The HYBA provides an opportunity for children to play organized recreational and travel basketball on a weekly basis. If you would like details on this organization, please check the website.
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Penn State Health
Do you have a child between 10 and 13 years old? If so, you and your child may be eligible to participate in a new research study. We think how the brain responds to actions from others could affect how a child’s personality develops. In this study, we will look at how certain brain activities related to questions like Do you feel like you belong (social acceptance)? How you see and think about yourself (self-perception) is connected to personality functioning. Please check the link for details on this study, who can participate, and what participants will do.
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Community Outreach Programs | |
We are excited to share upcoming events with you as part of our commitment to keeping our community informed and engaged. By clicking on the links below, you can access all the details about local church event(s), including their date, time, and location. We invite you to explore their websites and find events that interest you. Whatever you're looking for, there's something for everyone. Stay connected and be a part of our vibrant and welcoming community!
Derry Presbyterian Church
"Surviving the Holidays" Grief Workshop at Derry Church, Saturday, November 2, 10:00 am
Silver, Wood, & Ivory to Perform at Derry Church, Sunday, November 3, 4:00 pm
Saint Joan of Arc Church
Christmas Bazaar, Saturday, November 9, 8:00 am
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Are you looking for a job opportunity with the Township of Derry? We've got you covered! Our employment page features current job openings with detailed descriptions and requirements. Whether looking for a full-time or part-time job, you can find all the information on our website.
Join our team and make a difference in the Township of Derry community!
Derry Township Community Center
Lifeguard (Part-time)
Derry Township Police Department
Business Manager (Full-Time)
Community Service Officer (Part-time)
School Crossing Guard (Part-time)
Derry Township Public Works Department
Seasonal Laborer (Part-time)
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If you have a community news event that you would like to share in the township eNews, email it to eNews@derrytownship.org
Please note that listings should be related to local events. Submissions should be no more than a few sentences and include a link to a website with more information. Events determined to be discriminatory, controversial, negative, or offensive to other persons or organizations, or which promote organizations engaging in such conduct will not be included.
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