The Delaware County Weekly

Bringing Delco news and information directly to our residents!

—— February 2, 2024 (106th edition) ——

Delaware County Council and the County team are honored and excited to observe Black History Month with residents across the county this month. 

Black History Month, founded by Carter G. Woodson, the son of former slaves, and the “Father of Black History,” celebrates the achievements of Black Americans and recognizes the central role they had in shaping U.S. history. 

Delaware County is fortunate to have numerous members of the community, schools, organizations, and faith-based groups who work to educate, celebrate, and promote Black History and culture through education and the arts.

The County is proud to recognize the accomplishments of Black Americans throughout our history, who have helped move our country toward a more equal and just society. This month, we celebrate those across the nation and right here in Delaware County, who have struggled and sacrificed to guarantee freedom and rights for future generations. 

The contributions of Black Americans and their endeavors to learn and thrive throughout history and make unforgettable marks on our Nation as artists, scientists, educators, business leaders, influential thinkers, members of the faith community, athletes, and political and governmental leaders, reflects the greatness of our country’s ideals.

This year’s theme is African Americans and the Arts. From visual and performing arts, literature, fashion, folklore, language, music and film, Black artists have used their creative outlets to preserve and share their history and instill empowerment in their communities. 

Delaware County is proud to be hosting numerous recognitions and events across the county to celebrate Black History Month with a focus on celebrating the arts.

BLACK HISTORY MONTH TRIBUTES AND EVENTS

COUNTY COUNCIL RECOGNITION

Delaware County Council will recognize February as Black History Month during its February 7 Regular Public Meeting.

The meeting will held at 6:00 p.m. in the County Council Public Meeting Room, located on the first floor of the Government Center in Media. 

OUR DEI CELEBRATION

The County's Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Office and County partners will be hosting a celebration to honor the significant contributions of the Black community in Delaware County. This event will spotlight the achievements of local Black leaders and Delaware County team members, featuring their contributions to our community.

The celebration is set to include an array of artwork and performances, embracing this year's Black History Month theme—African Americans and the Arts.

We invite everyone to join us online on Friday, February 23, from 12:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. for this special event.

Click here to access the celebration virtually!

In line with this year's theme, we are calling on Delaware County students to contribute their artwork, which will be showcased during our celebration and displayed throughout the Government Center. It's a wonderful opportunity to display your artistic skills!

Art submissions can be mailed or emailed to:

C/O DEI Community Engagement Coordinator Jennifer Neidl

201 West Front St.

Media, PA 19063

Digital artwork should be sent via email to NeidlJ@co.delaware.pa.us.

Please include your name, age, and school. Mailed artwork will not be returned. 

We eagerly anticipate celebrating the vibrant talents and impactful contributions of our Black community members!

THE DELAWARE COUNTY HEALTH DEPARTMENT (DCHD) RECOGNIZES BLACK HISTORY MONTH

DCHD is Hosting Free Blood Pressure Screenings

DCHD is partnering with Keystone First to hold free blood pressure screenings for Delaware County residents on February 26 from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Yeadon Wellness Center, located at 125 Chester Ave., in Yeadon, PA.

No appointments are necessary. Screenings will be conducted on a walk-in, first-come first serve basis.

The CDC notes that high blood pressure affects nearly 1 in 2 adults in the United States. This condition, also known as the “silent killer,” increases the risk of heart disease and stroke. High blood pressure is more common in non-Hispanic Black adults (54%) than in non-Hispanic white adults (46%), non-Hispanic Asian adults (39%), or Hispanic adults (36%). 

The Delaware County Health Department encourages residents to take advantage of this opportunity to learn more about heart health and attend this blood pressure health check.

Recognizing Black Public Health Pioneers

The Delaware County Health Department will celebrate the careers and accomplishments of Black public health pioneers from Delaware County and showcase how their work has benefitted community health for the residents of Delaware County.

The Black Public Health Pioneers will be featured on DCHD’s website and social media pages. Click the following links to follow DCHD on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram.

WE INVITE YOU TO READ AND LEARN MORE ABOUT BLACK HISTORY FIGURES

Delaware County Council has partnered with Delaware County Libraries to share some of their favorite books featuring historical figures and events in Black History. 

Throughout February, Delaware County Libraries will be featuring book recommendations from Delaware County Council members.

This week: Hear about Dr. Taylor’s recommendation of Shirley Chisholm is a Verb by Veronica Chambers. 

Book recommendations will be shared here throughout the month on the Delaware County Libraries website.

Watch Council Chair Dr. Monica Taylor's recommendation of Shirley Chisholm is a Verb on our YouTube channel.

STROLL THROUGH ROSE TREE PARK AND LEARN ABOUT THE LIFE OF DR. KING

Delaware County invites families and children from across the county to celebrate Black History Month in Rose Tree Park. The Department of Parks and Recreation and Delaware County Libraries are featuring a book celebrating Black History as part of its StoryWalk® experience. 

The year’s exhibit features Martin's Big Word: The life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. by Doreen Rappaport. 

Located in the upper field behind the amphitheater stage at Rose Tree Park, StoryWalk® is a children's book exhibit that is spread out page by page across 18 reading stations along an approximately .25 mile trail in Rose Tree Park, located at 1671 N. Providence Rd., in Media, PA. The exhibits are free and open during park hours. 

COSA-HOSTED BLACK HISTORY PROGRAM FOR SENIORS

The Chester Senior Center, a Delaware County Offices of Services for the Aging’s (COSA) sponsored Senior Center, along with the Darlington Arts Center, is hosting a writing workshop and performance. 

Residents are invited to share their personal journeys in writing workshops and then in a dramatic storytelling performance. Residents are also invited to enjoy the performances and hear captivating stories of the lives of our community members. 

• Workshops: Tuesday, February 13 and/or February 20 at 1:00 p.m.
• Performance: Tuesday, February 27 at 1:00 p.m.

The workshops and performance will be held at the Chester Senior Center located at 721 Hayes St., in Chester, PA. Registration is required. Please register by February 8 by calling (610) 497-3550. 

Vincent A. Rongione, Esq. was sworn into office as the Delaware County Register of Wills and Clerk of the Orphan’s Court on January 26, 2024, in the County Council Public Meeting Room on January 26, 2024. 

Mr. Rongione was administered the Oath of Office by the Honorable Timika Lane, Elected Judge of the Superior Court of Pennsylvania. Upper Darby Mayor Ed Brown led the audience in the Pledge of Allegiance. Former Upper Darby Mayor Barbarann Keffer read an excerpt from President Roosevelt’s 1910 speech entitled “Citizenship in a Republic commonly known as “The Man in the Arena”. His introduction was by State Representative Heather Boyd, the presentation of the Oath was done by his mother, Rita Ann Rongione and the Bible was held by his wife Skye Nickalls and their two young children. 

“I am honored to serve the residents of Delaware County and thankful to County Council for the vote of confidence,” said Vincent Rongione. “I have had the privilege of working in government and public service over the past 15 years and am looking forward to leading the dedicated County team in my role as the Register of Wills and Clerk of the Orphan’s Court. I am genuinely humbled and honored by the presence of so many judges, elected officials, family, and friends here to share this moment.” Rongione continued, “Perhaps most honored by the attendance of my new staff. Whether for a marriage license or a will probate, people visit our office during very emotional and important transitional moments, and I am so thankful that our staff always treats them with compassion and professionalism. That is a difficult assignment and why I wanted to invite them here today to share this moment for the entire office.”

A Public Servant to his Core

“I can truly say that Vince is a public servant to his core,” State Representative Heather Boyd said in her introduction speech. “He could have done many other things with a law degree from Villanova, and he choose to dedicate his career and his free time to ensuring a better community, and a better government, for all of us in Delaware County. I am proud that our County Council looked at the work Vince has done, but also at his qualities as a person - he is tenacious, loyal, values-driven, a problem-solver, and a generally good-hearted person - and they knew he’d make an honest and thoughtful Register of Wills. The office is in good hands.”

Mr. Rongione is an experienced and respected attorney with over 15 years of experience in local, state, and federal government administration and law, and an executive who has served in significant leadership roles in a wide range of public and non-profit organizations. In addition to his most recent service as the Chief Administrative Officer in Pennsylvania’s 6th largest municipality, Upper Darby, Mr. Rongione served both on Capitol Hill in Washington D.C. as a Director of Communications and Special Projects as well as in the State Capitol in Harrisburg as the Southeast Delegation Director in the House of Representatives. 

A Passion for Public Service

Mr. Rongione is a Delaware County native and a graduate of Haverford Senior High School. He earned his bachelor’s degree from Villanova University and his law degree from the Villanova School of Law, where he served as a representative to the University Senate. He is also a graduate of the National Outdoor Leadership School in Lander, Wyoming and holds a certification in Basic Mediation from the CORA Good Shepherd Mediation in Philadelphia. 

Mr. Rongione has a passion for public service and community service. As a member of the Delaware County Bar Association, he participates in and plans to expand the local Wills for Heroes program which provides free estate planning to first responders and military Veterans.

He also regularly volunteers and participates in programs with organizations including Friends of Upper Darby Trails, The Upper Darby Tree Tenders, The Schuylkill River Greenways NHA, the Darby Creek Valley Association and various other organizations. 

In his free time, Vincent is an avid hiker, beachgoer, and Villanova basketball fan. Vincent resides in Upper Darby with his wife and their two young children.

More information about the Delaware County Register of Wills and Clerk of the Orphan’s Court Office can be found online at https://delcopa.gov/row/index.html.

Delaware County Council and the Delaware County District Attorney’s Office were proud to join over 130 attendees, including Family Support Line staff, board members, and local elected officials on January 30 to mark the official grand opening of the organization's new, 13,000-square-foot state-of-the-art Children's Advocacy Center located at 53 W. Baltimore Pike in Chester Heights.

The ribbon-cutting ceremony, hosted by the Delaware County Chamber of Commerce, was a momentous occasion attended by notable figures who shared their insights and support for the initiative.

Pennsylvania State Senators John Kane and Tim Kearney, Delaware County Council members Dr. Monica Taylor and Kevin Madden, First Assistant District Attorney Tanner Rouse, Family Support Line Executive Director Sarah Gibbons, and Board of Directors President Mitch Vidovich delivered impactful remarks during the ceremony.

"Since we moved in on December 4, our staff has conducted 85 forensic interviews. When you factor in the other children we have seen through therapy and group sessions, that’s over 100 impacted children in the span of two months that have benefited from this new facility," said Sarah Gibbons, Executive Director of Family Support Line. “The work we do is challenging but also immensely fulfilling. Our staff compassionately listens to stories that are heartbreaking to hear, let alone live. This space was carefully built and designed for the kids that we serve in order to build trust, comfort, and begin the healing process. We are so grateful to the community and our elected officials for their support in our mission.”

The event commenced with an official ribbon-cutting ceremony symbolizing the beginning of a new chapter for Family Support Line. 

“As a trusted community partner, I’m proud to support Family Support Line and witness the opening of their new state-of-the-art children’s advocacy center,” said Senator Kearney. “In light of the tragically increasing cases of child sexual assault, this expansion project underscores their essential role in our community and highlights their commitment to providing healing and justice for children and families in need. I congratulate them on this new chapter and look forward to continuing our partnership."

Pictured, left to right: First Assistant District Attorney Tanner Rouse, Senator John Kane, Delaware County Council Chair Dr. Monica Taylor, Chester Heights Mayor Gina Ellis, Delaware County Council Member Kevin M. Madden, Family Support Line Executive Director Sarah Gibbons, FSL Board of Directors President Mitch Vidovich, Senator Tim Kearney, and FSL Board Member Lou Robinson

During the grand opening, attendees were invited to explore the state-of-the-art facility through guided tours, gaining insight into the specialized areas designed to offer a safe and welcoming environment for children and families seeking support and justice.

"This new center symbolizes an additional beacon of hope in our community. The success of this grand opening is a testament to Family Support Line's unwavering commitment to advocating for and supporting our children and families and I am proud to always give them my support. Together, we can continue to create a safer and more compassionate future for our young ones," said Senator John Kane.

The modern facility features cutting-edge amenities and resources dedicated to the well-being of children who have experienced trauma from child sexual abuse with a focus on providing a compassionate and therapeutic environment.

Family Support Line aims to make a lasting impact on the lives of those they serve.

Last February, Delaware County Council awarded Family Support Line $910,000 in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding to support this project. Funding for the operations is provided through the County’s Department of Human Services, Children and Youth as well as the District Attorney’s Office.  

“The Family Support Line’s new Children’s Advocacy Center represents a significant expansion in their capacity to serve, to heal, and to protect our residents,” said Delaware County Council Member Kevin Madden. “Council’s investment into the new center, using ARPA funding, represents the County’s commitment to support and help protect vulnerable residents. We commend the Family Support Line for their work and dedication in serving children and families across the county and providing compassion and hope.”

County Council Chair Dr. Monica Taylor

County Council Member Kevin Madden

Delaware County Council extends its gratitude to the Family Support Line’s staff and board members, partners, and supporters who contributed to the launch of the new Children’s Advocacy Center and commends the Family Support Line for their unwavering dedication to fulfill its mission of advocating for and supporting children and families in the community.

For more information about Family Support Line and its services, please visit their website at www.familysupportline.org.

The Delaware County Health Department (DCHD), in continued partnership with the Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, is proud to remind the community of the upcoming opportunity for breast cancer awareness and screening services.

This initiative underscores our commitment to the health and well-being of Delaware County residents.

Free Mammogram Screenings: An Essential Service

On Friday, February 16, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., free mammogram screenings will be offered at the Delaware County Wellness Center at Chester, located at 151 W. 5th St., in Chester, PA. These screenings are a vital step in the early detection and successful treatment of breast cancer.

"Early detection through mammogram screenings is critical for successful treatment of breast cancer," said Delaware County Health Department Director Melissa Lyon. "We are honored to continue our partnership with the Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center in the pursuit of providing essential health services in our community.”

All women ages 40 and over, with or without insurance, and with no prior diagnosis of breast cancer, are eligible to register. Appointments are required.

How to Register for an Appointment

To register for an appointment, call the Delaware County Wellness Line at (484) 276-2100, or request an appointment via email at DelcoWellness@co.delaware.pa.us. 

Registration takes only a few minutes, and all registered individuals will receive a confirmation call back. Registrants will also be able to speak with DCHD staff and discuss other health services that are offered by DCHD to Delaware County residents.

The Importance of Early Detection

Recent data reveals that in Pennsylvania, women 50 years and older face a risk of invasive breast cancer nearly nine times higher than those under 50. However, early detection significantly increases the chances of survival, with 99 out of 100 people surviving breast cancer when it's detected early. As age increases, so does the risk, making mammogram screenings an indispensable tool in maintaining the health of women in our community.

We encourage all eligible individuals to take advantage of this opportunity for early detection. Together, we can make a significant impact on the health outcomes of our community.

Residents are reminded that effective January 1, 2024, TD Bank branches will no longer accept payments for County real estate taxes.

The County continues to offer multiple payment options: 

Pay Online: We encourage residents to utilize the County’s convenient online payment portal. Visit DelcoPA.gov/Treasurer to make a payment securely and easily. A convenience fee applies.

Pay by Mail: A check or money order payable to the Delaware County Treasurer can be mailed to Delaware County Treasurer, P.O. Box 1886, Media, PA 19063-8886.

Note: The bill must be included with your mailing in order for the payment to be processed.

Pay in Person: Residents can pay their County taxes in person, Monday through Friday, between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. in the Treasurer’s office, located on the ground floor of the Government Center Building at 201 W. Front St., in Media, PA.

Cash, checks, and credit cards (Mastercard, VISA, and Discover) are accepted. There is a 3% convenience fee for credit cards. 

Need Assistance?

If you have any questions or need assistance with your real estate tax payments, please call the County Tax Office at (610) 891-4278 or via email at realestatetax@co.delaware.pa.us.

We understand that this change may be an inconvenience for some residents, and we are committed to helping make this transition as smooth as possible. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation as we work together to ensure the continued prosperity of our county.

Nominations to be accepted through February 29, 2024

Delaware County is seeking nominations for the 2024 Heritage Commission Preservation Awards, a tradition since 1978, honoring the dedication and efforts in preserving the county's heritage. This recognition celebrates the impactful contributions of individuals, organizations, businesses, and institutions in protecting and revitalizing our local landmarks and historical narratives in Delaware County.

This is a unique opportunity to acknowledge the stewards of our history and heritage, and we look forward to receiving nominations.

The deadline for nominations is Thursday, February 29, 2024, at 4:30 p.m. 

Join Us in Honoring Preservation Heroes

We're calling on the community to help us identify and celebrate the champions of our proud Delco heritage. Whether through the restoration of buildings, objects, or sites; the publication of historical materials; the enhancement of public knowledge and awareness about our history; or the creation of special programs that spotlight our community's history, your nominations play a crucial role. We encourage nominations from anyone—groups or individuals—for any of the award categories.

Your participation in the nomination process not only honors the achievements of those dedicated to preserving our past but also fosters a culture of continued preservation efforts across Delaware County.

Coordinated by the Delaware County Heritage Commission, the awards are presented annually by County Council during National Preservation Month in May. 

Award Categories

• Site Preservation. Recognizes efforts towards exterior and interior restoration, preservation, or rehabilitation of an historical structure and/or site. 
• Publications. Recognizes those who have published books, articles, magazines, videos, calendars, social media, and websites, that present the heritage of Delaware County. 
• Special Programs/Projects. Recognizes education, research, archival activities, or other creative processes used to preserve Delaware County’s heritage. 
• Individual or Group Achievement. Recognizes an individual or group whose contributions in support of projects or activities. Group Achievement recognizes a group who has formed for the purpose of history or preservation. 
• Historic Preservation Planning. Recognizes efforts in planning to preserve Delaware County’s heritage, including preserving buildings, complexes, archaeological sites, and community character.
• Youth. Recognizes a youth who has made outstanding efforts to preserve Delaware County’s heritage through various projects undertaken, in school or outside.
• The Leedom B. Morrison Heritage Award. Recognizes preservation projects in the City of Chester that involve restoration, rehabilitation, or adaptive reuse of an historical structure.
• Legacy Award. Recognizes the efforts of long-standing members of the business community that have demonstrated good stewardship and have maintained the architectural integrity and architectural elements of their historic buildings and site.
• Veterans Legacy. Recognizes efforts to memorialize veteran’s history, sites, cemeteries, monuments, or objects.
• Indigenous Heritage. Recognizes projects that ensure preservation of Indigenous objects, traditional places or lifeways, and intangible heritage or languages.

How to Nominate

For more details on the award categories and to access nomination forms, visit our website at DelcoPA.Gov/HeritageAwards. Nominations can be submitted online, via email, or by mail.

We urge nominators to review the award criteria carefully, complete the nomination form in full, and include all requested materials

Should you have any questions or need assistance, please reach out to Kate Clifford at (610) 891-5223 or via email at DelawareCountyHeritage@co.delaware.pa.us..

Nominations Accepted Through Feb. 29



The deadline for Preservation Award nominations is Thursday, February 29, 2024, at 4:30 p.m. 

Award winners and individuals and organizations who submitted a winning nomination will be invited to attend the 2024 Heritage Commission Preservation Awards ceremony in May.

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