Derry Township eNews - December 20, 2024

Current News

Board of Supervisor Meeting

The public is welcome to attend the Derry Township Reorganization Meeting scheduled on Monday, January 6, 2025, at 7:00 p.m. 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 websiteClick on the website.

Waste Management - Holiday Pickup

Residents, please be aware that Waste Management will begin pick-up(s) one hour earlier than usual, starting at 4:00 a.m. on Christmas Eve on Tuesday, December 24, 2024. Also, if your regular collection day falls on a Wednesday, Thursday, or Friday, please remember that services will be delayed by one day during the Christmas week.

Holiday Hours - Township of Derry Administration

The Township of Derry would like to extend our warmest wishes to the community and wish them a joyful holiday season. May this time be filled with peace, love, and happiness. Please note that the Administration Building will close at 12:00 p.m. on Tuesday, December 24, 2024, and remain closed all day on Wednesday, December 25, 2024, in observance of the Christmas holiday. We wish you all a wonderful holiday season!

2025 DTMA Rate Adjustments Notice

After reviewing the 2025 Fiscal Year Budget, the Derry Township Municipal Authority Board has approved a 3% sewer rate increase—approximately 5 cents per day for a typical residential user—effective January 1, 2025. For details, please click the link here.

Public Works Department -

Christmas Tree Disposal

Residents are reminded that Waste Management WILL NOT pick up Christmas trees. The Public Works Department will pick up the trees starting January 6, 2025, and continue until January 31, 2025 - WEATHER PERMITTING. The pickup will follow the fall leaf collection schedule. Trees should be free of all lights, ornaments, tinsel, and tree stands. Trees should be placed at CURBSIDE – no pickups will be made in alleys. As an additional option, any resident may dispose of their Christmas tree at the Township Recycling Center, at no cost, during normal operating hours. To view hours and the leaf schedule, view the link here.

NEW Social Media Accounts - DTCC & Township of Derry

Check out our NEW social media accounts for the Derry Township Community Center and Township of Derry/Community Matters! Follow the Derry Township Community Center on Facebook and Instagram and stay connected with the Township's Facebook page. Keep following us for updates!

Cocoa with the Po-Po!

Join Desserts, Etc., and the Derry Township Police Department on December 22nd from 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at 840 E. Chocolate Avenue for a festive afternoon! Enjoy complimentary hot cocoa, visit the petting zoo, meet Santa, and celebrate the season. We look forward to seeing you there! Click the link for more information.

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.

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!

Township Meetings & Event(s) Calendars

Hershey Public Library's Events Calendar

2025 Board of Supervisor's Meeting Dates

Hershey Public Library Events

Wrap & Roll

Saturday, Dec. 21, 11:00 am

Wrapping presents during the holidays is HARD, especially with pesky present peekers lurking about.  Bring your gifts to the library and choose from a large selection of donated supplies to get those gifts wrapped. Use our space and supplies to wrap items and enjoy a festive atmosphere. Click the link for more details.

Chess Club

Saturday, Dec. 21, 1:00 pm

Join the Chess Club for a fun afternoon of chess. All ages and skill levels are welcome! Click the link for more event details.

Library Closed

Tuesday, Dec. 24, 2024 &

Wednesday, Dec. 25, 2024

The Hershey Public Library will be closed on Tuesday, December 24, and Wednesday, December 25, 2024, in observance of the Christmas holiday. Wishing you all a wonderful holiday season!

Play Day for Families

Friday, Dec. 27, 10:00 am

Families with children ages 2-5 are welcome to register for an hour of center-based free play that encourages children and their adults to engage in Early Literacy's five practice(s): talking, singing, reading, writing, and playingClick the link for more event details and to REGISTER.

The HPL Saturday Movie: Shrek 2

Saturday, Dec. 28, 2:00 pm

Bring your friends and family to enjoy a free Saturday movie! We're holding out for a hero and celebrating the 20th anniversary of Shrek 2. In this sequel to the original hit fantasy farce, Shrek travels with his princess bride Fiona to meet the in-laws, who are unaware their daughter has turned into the same kind of green ogre as her husband. (PG, 93 minutes) Click the link for more details, and to REGISTER.

Parks & Recreation Events

DTCC's Christmas Hours

May the magic of Christmas gladden your heart with the joys of the season. May the spirit of Christmas bless you with greater strength. May the promise of Christmas bring you and your family endless blessings. Everyone at Derry Township Community Center sends their warmest wishes to our members so that they can have a joyful holiday season with family and friends. Merry Christmas from all of us! Please view our limited Christmas hours to access the facility during the holiday!

Scuba Diving at DTCC!

Interested in learning how to Scuba Dive? We are offering a scuba course each month run by Get-N-Wet scuba! Classes will run December 14-15, January 11-12, February 22-23, March 15-16, and April 19-20! All registration can be completed through their website.

NEW Holiday Group Ex Schedule

The holidays are here, but that doesn’t mean you must put off your fitness goals! Stay energized and great with our Group Ex Schedule this season. Join us from December 23 to January 1 for fun, high-energy fitness classes to keep you moving through the holiday hustle and bustle. Click the link to view the Holiday Group Ex Schedule.

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.

Pickleball Clinics

Our next session of pickleball clinics is starting soon. Classes fill up quickly, so make sure to get enrolled today!

Magic Class with the Amazing Magi!

Saturday, Dec. 28, 9:30 am

In this 1-day program, all participants, children or adults, will learn simple sleight-of-hand, various principles of magic, and, of course, learn how to do a variety of tricks. In addition, each participant will be given a number of magic tricks by the instructor and learn how to use other effects with everyday household items. This class is designed to allow each participant to learn and have fun while doing so. Both children and adults are welcome. Participants will also receive video tutorials to keep. Click the link to sign up today!

Voice Lessons

Begins Jan. 4th

Focus on developing basic singing techniques, including proper breathing, vocal tone production, diction, dynamics, and musical phrasing, with an emphasis on applying these skills to a variety of music, incorporating this through warm-up exercises and performances! Enroll now and watch them grow as confident and skilled performers!

Basketball Clinics

Begins Jan. 5th

All skill levels are welcome in this 4-week group training as your athlete is put through specific drills to challenge them. Group training is beneficial because your athlete will get a lot of repetitions to enhance muscle memory, which creates good habits. Having fun while doing it is key. All are welcome to sign up!

Powerlifting - Beyond the Basics

Begins Jan. 6th

Take your strength to the next level with this Intermediate class! Building on the fundamentals of Barbell Basics, this class will enhance your technique, increase your strength, and introduce more complex variations of the squat, deadlift, and bench press. A minimum of 6 months prior experience with basic barbell movements is recommended. Follow the link to register today!

Weight Loss the RIGHT Way

Begins Jan. 6th

If weight loss is one of your goals or even a New Year's resolution, this 4-week course is for you! The sessions will show you how to sensibly and permanently lose weight. Topics will include information on general nutrition, macronutrients, blood sugar control, and intermittent fasting, to name a few. In addition to the group sessions, each participant will meet once with Lauren for a one-on-one to ensure individual goals are met. With all the conflicting information out there, you don't have to figure it out by yourself. Having a mentor alongside you can make all the difference! Follow the link to register today!

Barbell Basics- Women Only!

Begins Jan. 7th

Are you looking to get stronger, tone your body, or try something new? Our Barbell Basics Class for women is the perfect place to start! Whether you’ve never touched a barbell or are an experienced lifter, our class is designed to accommodate all skill levels. You will learn the fundamentals of strength training, focusing on the squat, bench press, and deadlift with proper attention to women’s structural anatomy. These three exercises are essential for building a strong foundation, building confidence in the gym, and helping to develop a well-rounded

workout routine. Not only will you learn proper technique and form, but

you'll also receive valuable feedback and support from the trainer and fellow classmates. Women supporting women! Follow the link to register today!

Next Generation Yoga®

with Cindy Lesher • After School Yoga Winter Session

Begins Jan. 7th

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® winter classes! These playful yet purposeful yoga classes follow 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 and use props, music, books, and games to engage students. Register for all classes here!

Art Exploration

Begins Jan. 9th

Art Exploration is back, starting on January 9th! This BRAND-NEW session is a class for children ages 4-6, as well as ages 6-10! Sign up your child today for a fun art experience!

DTCC - Gift Cards!

The holidays are quickly approaching! Give your family and friends the gift of health and wellness this season with a Derry Township Community Center gift card! All gift cards can be purchased online, over the phone, or in person! Gift cards can be redeemed to buy a membership, daily passes, programs, or cafe item(s)! Click to purchase today!

New Year, New YOU, Memberships!

Each day is a new opportunity to improve yourself, but a new year is an opportunity to challenge yourself! Start the New Year out right by crushin' your fitness goals with a membership to the Derry Township Community Center (DTCC) or buy a gift of health and wellness for that special someone in your life! Try something new, whether that's a program or workout class, get those workouts or steps in throughout your day, or simply get out in the community and meet new people! DTCC is here to support all of your new, challenging New Year's goals! You will have access to our pools, fitness center, gymnasium, activity lounge, and fitness group exercise classes! Registration can be completed online, over the phone, or in person with the assistance of our Front Desk staff! If you are completing registration online and are a resident, please email or call to get your residency verified and added to your family account before processing a transaction! Buy a membership with us today!

Gift of "Class"

Give the gift of "class" this holiday season by gifting a Derry Township Community Center Class or Clinic. With options such as Magic, Basketball, Pickleball, Art Exploration, Voice Lessons, and Scuba Diving, there is something for everyone. Register today or contact us by email.

Follow the link(s) below for more Parks & Recreation Program Offerings:

Derry Township Community Center's January Newsletter

Derry Township Parks and Recreation (activecommunities.com)

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.

New Year's Eve in Hershey

Tuesday, Dec. 31, 2024

Hershey New Year’s Eve marks its 20th anniversary with a festive celebration on December 31, 2024, in downtown Hershey, PA. At midnight, the event will offer family-friendly activities, live music, and a stunning laser and fireworks show. To learn more about the event, visit the website.

Senior Citizen's Council of Derry Township - "The People Mover" Open House Saturday, Jan. 11, 2:00 pm

Join The People Mover volunteers for an open house at the Derry Township Community Center on January 11, 2025, from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. To celebrate 50 years and 1.3 million miles of service to Derry Township seniors since their first ride on January 6, 1975. Please stop in and help celebrate with us! Meet volunteers and learn about our long history, all while enjoying culinary delights provided by Country Meadows of Hershey. Attendees will also be able to explore rewarding volunteer opportunities with The People Mover. Mark your calendars! To learn more about The People Mover, visit the website.

Hershey History Center

Urban Alphabet

Registration is Open Now!

Lancaster architect and author Gregory J. Scott, FAIA, will present his latest book, Urban Alphabet, which explores 26 architectural terms used by C. Emlen Urban in his work with Milton S. Hershey and the city of Lancaster. The illustrated book includes descriptions, photographs, and addresses. A book signing will follow the presentation. To register, send an email with "Urban Alphabet" in the subject line and indicate the number of attendees. For more details, visit the website.

Hershey Soccer Club

Registration is Open Now!

Join the Hershey Soccer Club on Saturday mornings at the Derry Township Community Center from January 11 through March 8, 2025. The winter soccer program is designed for players to practice skills and have fun with other teammates once a week. Registration is open now. To learn more and to register, click the link.

Joy of Sports Foundation

Joy of Sports Foundation invites you to explore the fantastic programs, events, and initiatives happening now and in the upcoming year. Whether you're looking to get involved, develop new skills, or support the growth of sports in our area, we have something for everyone. Don’t miss out on being part of something special! Click the link to learn more and get involved today.

Hershey Figure Skating Club

The Hershey Figure Skating Club is offering "Learn to Skate" classes. All ages are welcome. Classes are available on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays. To learn more about these classes, click the link.

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, Upcoming Events

Christmas Eve Service, Candlelight Service(s), Tuesday, December 24, 2:30 pm & 5:00 pm, Christmas Morning Service, Wednesday, December 25, 10:30 am


GriefShare Support Group, Wednesday(s), Begins January 8th, 2:00 pm

Township Job Postings

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

Community Service Officer (Part-time)

School Crossing Guard (Part-time)

Derry Township Public Works Department

Seasonal Laborer (Part-time)

Township Resources

Board of Supervisors Meeting Minutes 

November 26, 2024

Sign up for the Everbridge Emergency Alert System

at this link.

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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