Derry Township eNews - November 01, 2024 | |
Board of Supervisor Meeting
The Derry Township Budget Hearing will be held on Tuesday, November 12, 2024, at 5:30 p.m., followed by the Regular Meeting at 7:00 p.m. Both meetings will occur in person at the Derry Township Administration Building, 600 Clearwater Road, Hershey, PA 17033. The public is welcome, and the agenda will be available on the township website. Click on the website.
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Notice to Derry Township Residents
Derry Township invites residents to apply for various board positions. The following open positions include Downtown Core Design Board, Park & Recreation Advisory Board, Industrial & Commercial Development Authority, Shade Tree Commission, Board of Library Directors, Zoning Hearing Board, and Planning Commission. Submit a letter of interest and resumé by December 6, 2024, to 600 Clearwater Road, Hershey, PA 17033, or email Christopher Christman. Appointments will be made at January 6, 2025 Reorganization Meeting. Visit the link for more detailed information.
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Veterans Memorial Ceremony
The Township of Derry is honored to announce the dedication and ceremony for the new Veterans Memorial, taking place on Monday, November 11, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. at Chocolate Town Park. The ceremony celebrates the construction of the Veterans Memorial, a tribute to the brave men and women of Derry Township for their service and sacrifice. Click the link for more detailed information.
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Township & DTCC Facebook
Account Hacked
The Township of Derry and the Derry Township Community Center’s Facebook page was temporarily compromised. We are currently working to resolve this issue and appreciate your patience as we investigate and work to restore complete control. For the latest updates and accurate information, please visit our website. Thank you for your understanding and support.
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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 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 a.m. and about 11:00 a.m. 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 for flash floods, police, fire, and public health emergencies? The Township of Derry has upgraded from Nixle to Everbridge, a more advanced Emergency Alert and Notification System. Everbridge subscribers receive critical alerts about police, fire, severe weather, and health and safety events. Registration is quick and easy, allowing you to choose your preferred delivery method—text, email, or phone call—and to set preferred times for receiving notifications. Please note that emergency alerts will override these settings to ensure your safety. 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, Nov. 2, ALL DAY
Drop off your unfinished rolls of wrapping paper, ribbons, and gift tags for the upcoming holiday season. Click the link for more details.
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Small Business Money
Saturday, Nov. 2, 10:30 am
Connect with other small business owners and pick up tips and tricks to help manage your business's money flow. John Voyles will walk you through different bookkeeping topics every month. Click the link for more details.
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Chess Club
Saturday, Nov. 2, 1:00 pm
Join Chess Club for a fun afternoon of chess. All ages and skill levels welcome! While all are welcome, children ages 11 and under must have a responsible person remain in the library during chess club. Click the link for more event details.
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LEGO® Club
Wednesday, Nov. 6, 4:00 pm
Budding architects, engineers, and artists are invited to join us for LEGO® Club the first Wednesday of the month. We will set a special theme before building, then let your imagination run wild with our huge collection of LEGO® bricks. Finished projects are displayed in our LEGO® Museum for a whole month! Recommended for children ages 6+. Click the link for more event details, and to REGISTER.
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Community Crochet Night
Wednesday, Nov. 6, 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 event details.
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Open Book Group
Wednesday, Nov. 6, 6:30 pm
Read something new, meet new people, and engage with other book lovers in lively conversation for that month's chosen book. Please register for the event in order to help our facilitators properly prepare for the evening. November's book: Woman of Light by Kali Fajardo-Anstine. Click the link for more event details, and to REGISTER.
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Parks & Recreation Events | |
38th Annual Hershey Arts & Craft Show
The 2024 Hershey Arts & Craft Show is taking place THIS SATURDAY and 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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DTCC Temporary Parking Lot Closures
The Derry Township Community Center asks for your understanding as we temporarily close sections of the Derry Township Community Center parking lot for leaf removal.
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Group Exercise Class Schedule
Getting into a class is easy! Simply check our updated Group Ex schedule to find the classes that fit your interests and availability. With classes scheduled throughout the day, you’re bound to find something that works with your routine.
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Personal Training at DTCC!
Don't wait until the New Year to get on track with your fitness program. Personal Training can jump start your fitness plan now, improve your health and self-image, and provide the motivation you need to achieve your goals. Be healthier through the holidays! Contact Jamie McGlaughlin for more information.
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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
The next session of Karate Classes will be starting on Tuesday, November 12th (No Class on November 26th) and Thrusday, November 14th (No Class on November 28th)! This engaging 4-week program is designed for children and adults ages 3 and up. Classes will be held on Tuesday nights, times vary depending on class, at the Derry Township Community Center. 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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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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November Newsletter
It's the beautiful month of November that reminds us we have so much to be grateful for and to embrace the fall season to transform yourselves. DTCC aims to inspire, motivate, and encourage you to embrace the season of change and transformation with endless possibilities. Check out our November Newsletter to see what transformation or change you would like to make.
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Fall Memberships
Let the time of hot chocolate mornings, sweater weather, toasty marshmallow evenings, football, and jumping into a pile of leaves begin! And what better way to enjoy the Fall season than getting a membership with DTCC! Join us
for some indoor pool fun, extended slide times, great workouts, programs, and meeting new people of all ages! Click to purchase today!
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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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Cocoa Packs Upcoming Events
Begins Nov. 1st
Check out upcoming events at Cocoa Packs this holiday season! Visit CocoaPacks.org/Presents for event details and learn how you can help brighten the season for children!
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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 visit the website.
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Hershey Horticulture Society
Monday, Nov. 4, 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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Hershey Art Association
Saturday, Nov. 9 & 23, 1:00 pm
The Hershey Area Art Association presents the Holiday Art Display at Country Meadows, 451 Sand Hill Road, Hershey, beginning on November 2nd through November 30th. Open House will be on November 9, 2024, and November 23, 2024, from 1:00 to 3:00 pm. View more information, by clicking the link.
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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, 30 Conference 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 "Share the Keys"
Tuesday, Nov. 12, 6:30 pm
Penn State Health Holy Spirit Medical Center will host a free "Share the Keys" safe driving orientation for parents and teens on Tuesday, Nov. 12, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. in Auditorium C/D. The hospital is located at 503 N. 21st St., Camp Hill, PA. The event is designed to help families reduce young driver crash risks by increasing parental involvement. Offered by NJM Insurance Group, “Share the Keys” provides parents with valuable information, resources and experience to support their teen drivers. RSVP to Sunny Goodyear at 717-975-3267 or by email.
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Rock Hill Heritage Farm of Hershey, LLC
Just a reminder, since 2013, Rock Hill Heritage Farm of Hershey, LLC, has happily accepted: Jack-O-Lantern seeds/guts, unpainted pumpkins, strawbales, acorns, leaves, and corn stalks. (We always accept fruit and veggie cuttings, wood chips, non-chemically treated grass, or scraps- contact us with any questions). Items can be bagged and left at our welcome sign, located at 545 Hill Church Road, Hummelstown. All donations become animal feed, animal bedding, and eventually compost! We thank you for your support and for keeping items out of landfills. Thank you to all those that have gone out of their way to support our Farm-Recycle Initiatives! Questions? Please email us.
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Community Outreach Programs | |
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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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