The Delaware County Weekly

Bringing Delco news and information directly to our residents!

—— January 12, 2024 (103rd edition) ——

Communities and organizations throughout the nation will be honoring the enduring legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. in the coming days, with an extensive array of vibrant activities, including services, peace marches, commemorative ceremonies, educational workshops, community dialogues, artistic performances, volunteer service projects, public lectures, cultural exhibitions, and readings of his works—each deeply resonating with his profound message of justice, equality, and hope.

The MLK Day of Service stands as a testament to Dr. King's enduring impact, bringing together communities to continue his work towards a more equitable society. 

By joining hands in community service and dialogue, participants embody the very essence of Dr. King's dream: a united community working collaboratively for the betterment of all. Through these actions, we not only honor his memory but also reinforce our commitment to the ideals he so passionately advocated for.

Delaware County's Activities: Join Us!

Delaware County is proud to partner with Widener University, the Philadelphia Union, the Downtown Cultural Arts and Technology Center, and America250PADelco to host the 2nd Annual Delaware County MLK Day of Service on Monday, January 15, 2024, in celebration of the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. 

Built upon the foundation of Dr. King's enduring principles of equality, social justice, and compassion, the Day of Service will include a variety of events created to inspire and engage the community. Emphasizing volunteerism and unity, each activity is designed to honor Dr. King's legacy by addressing current social issues, fostering inclusivity, and promoting a culture of peace and understanding. 

Participants will have the opportunity to engage in meaningful dialogues with community members and elected leaders, contribute to community improvement efforts, and reinforce the ongoing relevance of Dr. King's vision in today's world.

Activities include a breakfast and dedication at Widener University, a Peace March from Widener University to Chester City Hall, a cleanup on Avenue of the States, and other community building activities that aim to foster unity, sense of purpose, and shared responsibility among residents. 

Delaware County residents are invited to join the local tribute to an historic and inspiring legend and the opportunity to actively shape the landscape of the community in the spirit of Dr. King. 

MLK Day of Service Schedule: Monday, January 15, 2024

• Breakfast and Opening Ceremony: 9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m. | Widener University’s Lathem Hall, 13th and Potter St., Chester, PA
• Peace March: 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. | Widener University to Avenue of the States to Chester City Hall
• Acts of Service - Community Beautification: 11:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. | Downtown Area of Chester and Memorial Park, 2401 W. 9th St., Chester. Clean-up groups will be assigned areas of the park and surrounding streets.
• Lunch and Community Building Activities: 12:30 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. | Downtown CAAT Center, 515 Avenue of the States, Chester, PA. After the cleanup, volunteers are invited to the CAAT Center to share lunch and paint collaborative community art pieces.
• Poetry for Peace: 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. | Downtown CAAT Center, 515 Avenue of the States, Chester, PA

Residents are invited to register at DelcoPA.Gov/MLK. Registration is not required but highly encouraged to help organizers and volunteers appropriately prepare. When registering, please select the events you plan to attend.

Members of the Delaware County Water Rescue Task Force and members of Aston, Chester City, Chester Heights, Media Borough, Middletown Township, and Upper Chichester fire departments were honored for their heroic efforts in responding to a water rescue in Upper Chichester during intense rain fall, flooding, and high winds on January 9. 

The first responders deployed the County's rescue boat to save a man who was swept away by floodwaters in Upper Chichester and had become trapped, clinging to a tree for safety. The County’s 911 dispatchers utilized “Next Generation 911” software, recently purchased by the County, to geo locate the man, enabling them to respond within three minutes. Due to their swift and heroic efforts, aided by modern equipment, they were able to bring the man to safety.

Delaware County Council, District Attorney Jack Stollsteimer, Delaware County Department of Emergency Services Director Timothy Boyce, and State Representative Leanne Kruger commended the first responders and Council Chair Dr. Monica Taylor recognized their heroic efforts and swift action with the presentation of a formal resolution on behalf of the County. 

Thank you to the County’s first responders. We are extremely grateful for the sacrifices you make each day to protect and support our community!

County Council Chair Dr. Monica Taylor reads the County's resolution.

District Attorney Jack Stollsteimer thanking first responders.

Thank you to the Delaware County Water Rescue Task Force and members of Aston, Chester City, Chester Heights, Media Borough, Middletown Township, and Upper Chichester fire departments.

The Delaware County Health Department (DCHD) is observing a modest increase in respiratory illnesses, including influenza, Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), and COVID-19 within our community this winter season. These illnesses tend to be more prevalent and transmit more easily during the colder months. Factors contributing to this rise include increased indoor activity, closer proximity to others, and social gatherings during the winter holidays.

It is vital for residents—especially those who are older, immunocompromised or in poor health—to be cautious and implement preventive strategies to safeguard not only their own health but also the well-being of their loved ones and the community. 

Respiratory illness season often extends into spring, continuing to affect community health. It is never too late to protect yourself against infection through immunization. 

How to Protect Yourself and Your Community

To minimize your risk of contracting respiratory infections and to lessen their severity: 

• Frequently wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds
• Wear a mask in crowded or poorly ventilated spaces.
• Avoid close contact with sick individuals and practice good personal hygiene.
• Disinfect high-touch surfaces like doorknobs, phones, and keyboards.
• Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.
• Ensure proper ventilation in indoor spaces and limit large gatherings.
• Stay hydrated and maintain a balanced diet to support overall health and immune function.
• Exercise regularly to improve respiratory and immune system strength.
• Seek medical advice early if experiencing symptoms of respiratory illness and follow prescribed treatments.

Following the measures listed above is the best way to ensure that you, and those around you, stay healthy and avoid respiratory illnesses. Should you feel unwell or test positive for illnesses such as COVID-19, it is imperative to stay home and self-isolate to safeguard others and prevent further transmission. 

Be mindful of not exposing vulnerable friends and family especially those who are immunocompromised.

Vaccinations: Your Best Defense

DCHD urges vaccinations against flu and COVID-19. Even if residents have recently recovered from a respiratory illness, staying up-to-date with immunizations is crucial. Both flu and COVID-19 immunizations can be received at the same time.

Flu shots are available to all residents at no cost, regardless of insurance status. 

COVID-19 and RSV vaccines are available for eligible children by appointment through the Vaccines for Children program. Adults seeking vaccinations should reach out to their healthcare provider, local pharmacies, or retail health clinics like Rite Aid or CVS for more information and services.

For more information, to check eligibility, and/or schedule an immunization appointment, please contact the DCHD Wellness Line by phone at (484) 276-2100 or by email at DelcoWellness@co.delaware.pa.us.

Residents can also visit the Delaware County Health Department Respiratory Illness web page for additional information about flu, COVID-19, and RSV at DelcoPA.Gov/Health.

COVID-19 At-Home Test Kits

DCHD offers free at-home testing kits to Delaware County residents at both of its Wellness Centers and its primary office location in Eddystone. Residents can pick up two kits (four tests) per person. 

The Delaware County Wellness Center at Yeadon

125 Chester Ave., Yeadon, PA 19050

Open Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

The Delaware County Wellness Center at Chester

151 W. 5th St., Chester, PA 19013

Open Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Baldwin Tower Office

Administration & Environmental Health Division

1510 Chester Pike, Suite 700

Eddystone, PA 19022

Open Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

The federal government also offers free at-home COVID-19 test kits, available online at www.covid.gov.

The Delaware County Health Department (DCHD) reminds residents that January is Cervical Cancer Awareness Month. During this month, DCHD encourages residents to educate themselves about cervical cancer and to take steps to prevent the deadly cancer.

Cervical cancer, once a major cause of cancer death among women in the United States, has seen a significant decline thanks to enhanced screening and prevention methods. Yet, despite the advances in screening and prevention methods, the National Cancer Institute estimates that nearly 14,000 women in the U.S. will be diagnosed with cervical cancer in 2023, with approximately 4,310 expected fatalities.

Cervical cancer is one of several cancers caused by infections from pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, and parasites. Almost all cervical cancer cases are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. Vaccinations against HPV can prevent the majority of these cases.

DCHD offers HPV vaccinations to eligible residents. These vaccinations are a critical tool in preventing cervical cancer and DCHD encourages residents to discuss HPV vaccination with your doctor for yourself and your children and teens.

DCHD offers HPV vaccinations by appointment each week at the DCHD Wellness Centers in Chester and Yeadon.

DCHD Wellness Center at Chester

Mondays from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

DCHD Wellness Center at Yeadon

Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. (availability may vary)

After-hours vaccinations are also available by appointment at certain times of the year. 

Visit the DCHD website at DelcoPA.Gov/Health for more information. You can also learn more about cervical cancer on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website.

Delaware County held an Opioid Settlement Roundtable Discussion with business leaders from across the county on January 5. The forum, hosted by Delaware County Council and the Delaware County Chamber of Commerce, was held to engage members of the county’s business community around the opioid settlement funds that the County has received and will be receiving.  

The County is receiving the funds as part of the $26 billion multi-state opioid settlement with Johnson & Johnson, AmerisourceBergen, Cardinal Health, and McKesson. Delaware County will receive a total of $63 million in 18 annual payments. 

To ensure that the funds are used to combat the opioid crisis to the best of their ability, Delaware County formed an interdepartmental and interdisciplinary Task Force in 2022 to provide recommendations to County Council for short-term and immediate uses, as well as long-term programming that can be supported by the new funding. As part of the planning process, the County is also engaging with community stakeholders who share the County’s common goal of tacking the opioid abuse epidemic. 

“It’s critical that Delaware County uses this funding efficiently and puts it to use immediately to tackle the opioid epidemic,” said Delaware County Council Chair Dr. Monica Taylor. “We have used these funds, and will continue to use them, to address addiction and its devastating impact on the lives of residents, the lives of their loved ones, and on the community.”

During the forum with the business community, the County provided a status update on the settlement planning process. Business leaders discussed the impact of the opioid crisis on their community and offered ideas on collaborating with the County to tackle the epidemic and be a part of the solution. 

The Delaware County Health Department is drafting a report based on the forum, to be shared with participants and the public that will inform the County’s planning process for utilizing the settlement funds.  

The County has held similar roundtable discussions with leaders of local colleges and universities and members of the healthcare community. The County has also hosted several public Opioid Settlement Town Halls over last year and has offered an online community survey to gather input from residents. Future Opioid Settlement Roundtable Discussions for various groups and stakeholders are being planned. 

For more information regarding the opioid settlement, visit the Delaware County Opioid Settlement website at DelcoPA.Gov/Settlement.

The Delaware County Department of Emergency Services (DES) recognized several standout individuals this past week with the announcement of their 2023 Emergency Communication Recognition Awards.

The awards recognize Emergency Communication Center team members in three categories: a standout call-taker or dispatcher, a notable 'rookie' from the recent hiring class, and a platoon (comprised of 17 telecommunicators and 2 supervisors working 12-hour shifts).

Winners were recognized for demonstrating coordinated teamwork, superior performance exceeding normal expectations, consistent professionalism, a strong willingness to help and promote teamwork, leadership qualities, mentorship, and consistently going the extra mile in serving the public, first responders, and colleagues.

2023 Emergency Communication Recognition Award Winners

• Telecommunicator of the year: Raquel Lewandoski
• New Hire of the Year: Recipient Ashley Miller-Rhees
• Platoon of the Year: "B" Platoon (led by Supervisors Michael McGinley and Tracy Davis)

DES 911 telecommunicators play a pivotal role in ensuring the safety and well-being of the community. As the initial point of contact in emergencies, these highly trained professionals handle a vast array of critical situations, ranging from life-threatening crises to public safety concerns. 

Telecommunicators are trained to quickly assess the situation, dispatch the necessary emergency services, and provide vital instructions or reassurance to callers in distress. Their ability to respond swiftly and accurately is crucial—and their training, skill, and composure often mean the difference between life and death.

“The critical role our telecommunicators play cannot be overstated. They are the unseen heroes, the calm voices in the storm, guiding those in crisis while orchestrating timely responses from our emergency teams,” said Delaware County Department of Emergency Services Director Timothy Boyce. “Recognizing their exceptional service is not just a privilege; it's a reflection of the vital role they fulfill in protecting our community.”

Delaware County Council congratulates the 2023 award winners and thank all our Delaware County DES team members for their unwavering dedication and service.

Pictured: Ashley Miller-Rhees, 2023's New Hire of the Year, and Raquel Lewandoski, 2023's Telecommunicator of the Year

"B" Platoon Supervisors Michael McGinley and Tracy Davis accepting the award for 2023's 'Platoon of the Year,' pictured with Delaware County Department of Emergency Services Director Timothy Boyce (left) and Department of Emergency Services Chief of Communications Anthony Mignogna (right)

Members of "B" Platoon

Residents should be aware 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:

Delaware County Treasurer 

P.O. Box 1886

Media, PA 19063-8886

*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 contact the County Tax Office by phone at (610) 891-4278 or by email at realestatetax@co.delaware.pa.us.

We understand that this change is an inconvenience for many 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. 

Delaware County is excited to open the application period for the 2024 Summer Internship Program. Applications are being accepted now through Monday, April 8 for a diverse array of internship opportunities at the County.

Open to residents 18 years of age and older, these internships span a variety of County departments, including the Delaware County Planning Department, the Delaware County Parks and Recreation Department, Delaware County Information Technology (IT), the Delaware County Medical Examiner’s Office, the Delaware County Public Defender's Office, the Delaware County Register of Wills' Office, and Delaware County’s Military and Veterans Affairs. More departments are expected to participate and will be announced soon.

The County’s Summer Internship Program is more than just a work experience opportunity; it is a gateway for aspiring professionals interested in public service to foster personal and professional growth. It provides a platform to apply academic learning in practical environments, build connections, and enhance core competencies—all while gaining essential hands-on experience in chosen fields.

Applicants must be enrolled full-time in a local high school, college, university, trade school, or accredited institution. Candidates should provide their school’s program criteria, including compensation requirements, along with a resume or letter of interest.

Internships are available in 9- or 11-week programs: 

1) May 20 – July 19, 2024 (9 weeks)

2) May 20 – August 2, 2024 (11 weeks)

We encourage interested students to apply promptly. For more details and to access the online application, please visit DelcoPA.Gov/Internship.

Don't miss this chance to enrich your resume, advance your professional skills, and contribute to proudly serve the residents of Delaware County. 

The County Office of Services for the Aging (COSA), in collaboration with the Rachel Kohl Community Library and the PA Department of Aging, is again offering the acclaimed Chronic Pain Self-Management Program for residents 60 years of age and older who live with chronic pain. 

Developed at Stanford University, the popular evidence-based program provides older adults with tools and strategies to effectively manage chronic pain or chronic disease. 

The program will be held virtually on Wednesdays, from January 24 through February 28, from 9:30 a.m. – 12:00 noon. Register today to ensure you get a spot!

Dealing with chronic pain? You’re not alone!

A staggering 1 in 5 people live with chronic pain or chronic disease, which can impact all aspects of a person’s life, causing significant physical, mental, and emotional, distress. 

This program aims to give people control over how they manage their pain. Individuals are the experts with regards to their own bodies and therefore, play the biggest role in managing their pain in partnership with their healthcare providers. 

The program addresses how to deal with frustration, fatigue, isolation, and poor sleep; provide learning exercises to improve strength, flexibility, and endurance; discuss how to use medications effectively; examine the impact of good nutrition; and spotlight new treatments for chronic pain.

The program is free, but space is limited, and registration is required.

Chronic Pain Self-Management Program

Wednesdays, January 24 through February 28

9:30 a.m. – 12:00 noon

To register, contact Ellen Williams, COSA’s Health and Wellness Program Manager, by email at williamse@co.delaware.pa.us or by phone at (610) 499-1937 and provide your name, address, phone number and email if you have one.

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