The Delaware County Weekly

Bringing Delco news and information directly to our residents!

—— August 2, 2024 (132nd edition) ——

Delaware County’s Director of Military and Veterans Affairs, COL. Arthur Jenkins was honored to join retired U.S. Coast Guard members Mike Schultz (American Legion 777) and Larry Albertoli (American Legion Post 1000), Veterans from the U.S. Air Force, Army, Navy, and Marines, and members of the County Team to pay tribute to the United States Coast Guard on Friday, August 2. 

The Coast Guard flag was raised to commemorate the anniversary of the United States Coast Guard, which was established on August 4, 1790. It will fly from the flagpole in front of the Courthouse and the Government Center complex for a week. 

"August is a time to reflect on the incredible service and sacrifices made by our Coast Guard and all military members,” said COL Arthur Jenkins, Director of Military and Veterans Affairs. “Our department is dedicated to supporting our veterans and their families through comprehensive services and meaningful events, and encourage Veterans to participate in our upcoming activities and take advantage of the resources available.”

Throughout the year, the County raises flags in honor of all branches of the military and invites active military and Veterans to join in the flag raisings. Military flags are raised at appropriate times throughout the year in observance of the anniversaries of the United States Army on June 14, 1774; the Coast Guard on August 4, 1790; the Air Force on September 18, 1947; the Navy on October 13, 1775; and the Marine Corps on November 10, 1775.

Thank you to everyone who joined us in honoring Coast Guard Veterans and active members of the Coast Guard. Council extends their gratitude to all of those who have served or are serving, protecting our country.

Retired Coast Guard Vets Larry Albertoli & Mike Schultz 

James Augustin, U.S. Army (ret.), salutes the raising of the flag

COL Jenkins and a moment of reverence for the flag

Proudly flying above the Delaware County Courthouse

Pictured, left to right: Daniel Hineline, Army National Guard (ret.); James Augustin, U.S. Army (ret.); Herb Hays, U.S. Navy (ret); Bobby Williams, U.S. Air Force (ret.); COL Arthur Jenkins, Director Delaware County Military and Veterans Affairs; Larry Albertoli, U.S. Coast Guard (ret.); Mike Schultz, U.S. Coast Guard (ret.); and Jim Toland, U.S. Marines (ret.)

New mural created by Upper Darby Students helping transform new community space 

Delaware County is excited to transform the vacant Briarcliff Fire Company building in Darby Township into a new community center thanks to a unanimous 2023 vote by Delaware County Council to purchase the property.

The new Community Center will soon open as a space for residents and non-profit organizations.

This past week the building was buzzing with new life as teachers and students from the Upper Darby School District worked to transform the entrance into a welcoming space. The once-blank wall leading into the building has been transformed into a vibrant mural, bursting with colorful art that celebrates the heart and soul of Delaware County—beautifully capturing the essence of our beloved sports teams, the iconic Delaware County Courthouse, beautiful green spaces, our diverse community, and bustling transportation. The artistic masterpiece, created by Upper Darby School District students, not only brightens the space but also symbolizes a warm welcome to all who enter.

The new community center is poised to soon serve residents and organizations across the county, offering space for meeting rooms, training spaces, and community spaces. The building is being renovated to be accessible and convenient, featuring handicap accessibility, ample parking, and a location along public transportation.

This transformation signifies a new chapter for the Darby Township building, showcasing the power of community collaboration and the dedication to creating spaces that serve and enrich the lives of residents.

The former Briarcliff Fire Department, the future site of a new community center!

Upper Darby student Stephanie Brooks

Reference materials for the mural

Upper Darby student Leah Saddick

Upper Darby student Phillip Sample

The finished mural, and a fresh start. All are welcome!

The Delaware County Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (DMVA) is excited to host a free screening of the documentary film, The Journey Home, on Thursday, August 8, from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at Nolan’s Pour House, a Veteran owned coffee shop located in Media. 

Veterans and active-duty members of the military are invited to view the documentary and also connect with fellow service members and access valuable resources from the behavioral health community. 

The Journey Home is a documentary featuring numerous Vietnam Veterans who share their experiences of returning home and their current lives. With interviews from Academy Award Winner Jon Voight, Medal of Honor Recipient Sammy Davis, and dozens of others, the film presents a complete story of what it has been like for these returning Veterans, as they deal with a range of emotions relating to their experiences post-Vietnam. 

The film screening is one of DMVA’s ongoing efforts to raise awareness of Veteran suicide and the mental health issues Veterans face, and to highlight the vast resources available to Veterans and their family members who may feel isolated, overwhelmed, and in need of support.

“This powerful movie provides an honest and relatable portrayal of the struggles that many Veterans face,” said COL Arthur L. Jenkins Jr., Delaware County’s Director of Military and Veterans Affairs. “It sheds light on the harsh realities of Veteran suicide and the importance of seeking help. We look forward to seeing both new and familiar faces on Thursday.”

According to a recent Department of Veterans Affairs’ National Veteran Suicide Prevention Annual Report, the suicide rate among Veterans is 1.5 times greater than the non-Veteran population ages 18+, with over 6,000 Veterans dying by suicide each year. Despite accounting for just 7.9% of the population, Veterans account for 13.5% of all suicide deaths in the United States.

Veterans often carry the weight of their service long after their active duty ends. The transition to civilian life can be incredibly challenging, and many Veterans grapple with issues like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and anxiety. Unfortunately, these struggles can sometimes lead to thoughts of suicide.

Screening Details: The Journey Home 

Nolan’s Pour House

1 W. Third Street

Media, PA 19063



Thursday, August 8

7:00 - 9:00 p.m.

Help is Available

Veterans, Active Military, or people who are concerned can call the confidential 24/7 Veterans Crisis Line by dialing 988 (then pressing 1). This line is available for all Veterans and active-duty military — even if they’re not enrolled in VA benefits or health care. Support doesn't end with the conversation. Veterans Crisis Line responders will connect callers with the resources they need.

It's our duty as a nation to remember that the battle doesn't always end on the battlefield. By fostering a culture of understanding, empathy, and support, we can help our Veterans heal and thrive in civilian life.

The Delaware County Conservation District (DCCD) is excited to announce the winners of the 2024 Pennsylvania Association of Conservation Districts (PACD) Poster Contest, an annual statewide competition that aims to inspire and engage K-12 students on important environmental issues.

The theme of this year’s contest, "May the Forest Be with You Always," encouraged students here in Delaware County and throughout the Commonwealth to create artwork highlighting the vital connection between healthy forests, tree canopies, and clean water. Trees and plants play a crucial role in filtering water in our streams, ponds, lakes, and groundwater by absorbing pollutants, stabilizing soil, and maintaining the natural water cycle. This natural filtration process ensures that our water sources remain clean and sustainable for future generations.

“We are incredibly proud of all the students who participated in this year’s contest,” said DCCD Director Karen Wilwol. “Their creativity and passion for environmental stewardship are truly inspiring. Our team, in collaboration with the Delaware County Libraries system and through social media outreach, worked hard to promote the program and select the best submissions from our county. It’s wonderful to see such enthusiasm for conservation from our young residents.”

Overall, posters from six students from Pennsylvania, representing just four counties—Allegheny, Cambria, Delaware, and Greene—were selected to compete at the national level.

Delaware County winners included Jion Kim from Ithan Elementary School (Radnor School District, 2nd-3rd grade category), and Halena Nguyen (Ridley School District, 10th-12th grade category).

"We are so impressed with the creativity and commitment of all the participants,” said County Council Member Elaine Paul Schaefer. “Best of luck to Jion and Halena as they showcase their talent and represent Delaware County nationally. Their efforts to raise environmental awareness through their art are truly inspiring. A big shout out to the Delaware County Conservation District for their outstanding work in promoting and supporting this vital initiative.”

Jion Kim

1st place, 2nd-3rd grade category

Ithan Elementary, Radnor School District

Halena Nguyen

1st place, 10th-12th grade category

Ridley School District

More About the Delaware County Conservation District

DCCD’s mission is to help ensure the wise use of natural resources and the promotion of environmental stewardship throughout Delaware County. DCCD focuses on enhancing urban and suburban forests, protecting water quality, and building local capacity for environmental conservation. Through programs like the Southeast Pennsylvania Trees for Watersheds Grant Program, DCCD partners with local municipalities, non-profit environmental organizations, volunteer watershed groups, and school districts to increase tree cover, improve riparian forest buffers, and enhance the overall environmental quality in the county.

With funding provided by the PA Department of Environmental Protection and Aqua Pennsylvania and administered by PHS, volunteer watershed groups, municipalities, non-profit environmental organizations, and school districts have benefitted from this program over the years by enhancing their riparian forest buffers and improving environmental quality in Delaware County.

DCCD conducts workshops, provides technical assistance, and coordinates with municipalities, County departments, and community groups to achieve its conservation goals. The District’s efforts are crucial in promoting sustainable practices and fostering a culture of environmental responsibility in Delaware County.

Congratulations to Jion and Halena, and good luck to all the kids from Pennsylvania in the national contest! 

Beginning August 1, Delaware County residents who have a Delaware County Libraries’ card can access Kanopy, a free on-demand streaming video platform that offers films, TV shows, educational videos, documentaries, and content for both children and adults. 

Cardholders now have unlimited access to countless titles, and Delaware County Libraries generously allows for unlimited streaming on any device, with no monthly limits. You can watch as many titles as you'd like every month.

‘Kanopy Kids’ offerings include countless TV shows and book readings such as Arthur, Blippi, Cyberchase, Odd Squad, Martha Speaks, Reading Rainbow, Lyla in the Loop, Donkey Hodie, Sid the Science Kid, Madeline, The Busy World of Richard Scarry, The Wubbulous World of Dr. Seuss, Increditales, Curious George, Monster Math Squad, Rosie’s Rules, and many many more.

Parents can set personalized parental controls using a four-digit PIN to ensure their children only have access to age-appropriate content.

Kanopy is not just for kids!

For adults, thousands of TV shows, documentaries, concert series, and movies are also available, with genres including Drama, Comedy, World Cinema, Classic Cinema, Documentaries, Horror, Thriller, Action & Adventure, LGBTQ+ Cinema, Science Fiction & Fantasy, TV Series, Docuseries, Animation, and Short Film.

Don't have a library card? 

Visit any Delaware County Library location to sign up for a free Library Card or register for free online today at https://charlotte.delco.lib.pa.us/selfreg. Go to Delaware County Libraries’ website at Delcolibraries.org for more information about the amazing resources available.

Kanopy can be accessed in Libby, our eBook and audiobook platform, or directly at Delco.Kanopy.com. 

The Delaware County Health Department (DCHD) is thrilled to announce a Back-to-School Fair on Saturday, August 10, 2024, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., at the Delaware County Wellness Center, located at 125 Chester Avenue, in Yeadon.

Parents and students are invited to join us for a day of health, fun, and preparation! 

From backpacks and haircuts to health screenings and immunizations, residents are encouraged to stop by the DCHD Wellness Center at Yeadon to get ready for the upcoming school year.

Back to School Fair Activities

• Tdap & MCV4 Vaccines: Available for rising 7th and 12th-grade students. Pre-registration is required for immunizations. Please call DCHD’s Wellness Line to register at (484) 276-2100.
• Backpacks and School Supplies: Distributed to students to ensure they have the tools needed for academic success, while supplies last.
• Vision and Dental Screenings: Quick assessments to identify any potential health issues that might affect students' learning.
• Music, Face Painting, and Giveaways: Fun activities will be available as well as information and resources to support families in various aspects of health and education.

"Ensuring students are prepared and healthy as they start the school year is so important," said Delaware County Health Department Director Melissa Lyon. “Our goal is to support our children’s health, well-being, and potential to achieve success and live a healthy life."

The Back-to-School Fair is supported by numerous community partners, including Eagle Eye Mobile, ACME, Delaware County Libraries, Keystone First, Children First, The Line Up, Kids Smiles, The Foundation for Delaware County, the Franklin Mint, and Wawa. Their contributions are helping support our families to enjoy a day of fun activities and lay the foundation for a healthy and successful school year.

Don't Forget: Donations Still Being Accepted!

We need your help to make this Back-to-School Fair a success

To help ensure local students receive as much support as possible, we continue to encourage residents and community members to participate in our donation drive, alongside DCHD and members of the Delaware County team, through Wednesday, August 7.

DCHD is collecting new school supplies, stationery, and hygiene items at eight drop-off locations in Delaware County listed below.

For more information about DCHD’s Back-to-School Fair or to register for immunizations contact the Delaware County Wellness Line at (484) 276-2100 or via email at DelcoWellness@co.delaware.pa.us.

The Delaware County Department of Parks & Recreation annual Rose Tree Park Summer Festival concert series continues, with free concerts scheduled throughout the summer, Wednesdays through Sundays at 7:30 p.m.

The complete schedule can be found on the Parks and Recreation website.

Upcoming Performances: August 2 - August 11

Concerts are weather permitting; there are no rain dates. Admission and parking are free. Handicapped parking is available.

For the complete schedule, visit the Rose Tree Summer Festival website. 

For more information—including recorded messaging about cancelations that may occur to inclement weather or air quality concerns—please call (610) 891-4455.

County Council’s Next Public Meetings Scheduled for August 6 & 7

Delaware County Council will hold its next Regular Public Meeting on Wednesday, August 7, at 6:00 p.m. in the County Council Public Meeting Room, located on the 1st floor of the Government Center at 201 W. Front Street in Media.

Delaware County Council holds recurring bi-weekly public meetings at 6:00 p.m. on the 1st and 3rd Wednesday of each month to discuss topics of interest to the County. County Council members and other attendees may make announcements, issue reports, discuss important developments, and review administrative matters such as County contracts, purchases, agreements, and amendments. In addition to the County Council members, the Executive Director, County Controller, County Solicitor and County Clerk are typically present during these meetings.

Each Regular Public Meeting is preceded by a related Preliminary Agenda Meeting, scheduled one day prior to the Regular Public Meeting on Tuesdays at 1:00 p.m. The preliminary Agenda meetings are intended to ensure that ordinances, contracts, resolutions, and other items to be discussed and potentially subjected to a vote by Council are given appropriate consideration and preparation.

Both meetings are open to the public, and residents are welcome to attend and provide in-person comments on any topic related to the County.

Meetings are also live-streamed and made available for later viewing on the County’s website at DelcoPA.Gov/Meetings. Meeting agendas can be accessed online, and meeting minutes are posted shortly after the conclusion of each meeting. 

Encouraging Civic Participation

Your voice matters! Attending these meetings is a valuable opportunity to stay informed about County affairs, participate in local government, and contribute to the decision-making process. Whether you attend in person or follow along online, your engagement helps shape the future of our community. Join us and make a difference!

Residents are encouraged to schedule an appointment with members of Council. To schedule an appointment, contact the County Council office by phone at (610) 891-4270 or by email at DelcoCouncil@co.delaware.pa.us. 

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