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The Delaware County Weekly
Bringing Delco news and information directly to our residents!
—— July 12, 2024 (129th edition) ——
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Delaware County Senior Games Winners Honored at Winner’s Circle Awards Luncheon | |
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Delaware County Council was proud to join Senior Games Committee Co-chairs Marc Manfre, Director of Parks & Recreation, and Barbara Nicolardi, Director of the Delaware County Office of Services for the Aging (COSA) and over 300 Delaware County Senior Games participants and volunteers to celebrate another successful year of the Delaware County Senior Games at the “Winner’s Circle Luncheon” held at the Drexelbrook Banquet Center on July 10.
This year’s games featured 585 athletes, ages 50-95, the largest group to date. Senior athletes competed in over 35 competitive events, including bocce, bowling (singles, doubles, mixed doubles, and team), corn hole, golf (9 and 18-hole), mini golf, pickleball, swimming, shuffleboard, table tennis, track and field, and Wii bowling.
The games were held from June 10 to June 21 at venues across the county, including gymnasiums, bowling alleys, parks, fields, tracks, pools, golf courses, and community centers, concluding with the traditional final day of track and field events held at Cardinal O’Hara High School in Springfield.
“The annual Senior Games provide a healthy and fun experience for our residents,” said Delaware County Chair Dr. Monica Taylor. “Council commends the dedication and immense efforts of the County team and over 90 volunteers under the direction of Barb Nicolardi and Marc Manfre who helped make this year another huge success.”
The oldest medalist was Phil Martelli, age 96, who won a gold medal in the 95+ age group for 18-hole golf, and the oldest female medalist was Fran Coates, age 94, who won gold medals in both the football and softball throw at the track and field events. Fran also showed her prowess in mini golf.
Other Senior Games standouts include Robert Jones, age 73, who for the second year in a row competed in all seven swimming events, and Anthony Belfiglio, age 83, and brother John Belfiglio, age 81, who competed in all 11 track and field events.
“It was truly inspiring to see so many participants this year,” said Barb Nicolardi. “Our annual Senior Games grows stronger every year. These athletes compete with such enthusiasm and dedication! The spirit of camaraderie and health highlights the importance of staying active and engaged at any age."
Delaware County Council thanks the many residents, competitors, volunteers, staff members, and host locations that made the 2024 games a success!
|  | Parks and Recreation Director Marc Manfre addresses the hundreds of seniors in attendance. | Delaware County Council Member Elaine Paul Schaefer chats with proud medal winners. | Pictured (left to right) Delaware County Controller Joanne Phillips, County Council Chair Dr. Monica Taylor, Chief of Social Services and Community Programs Sandy Garrison, Parks and Recreation Director Marc Manfre, COSA Director Barbara Nicolardi, and Parks and Recreation Deputy Director Ann Stauffer with a table of athletes from Riddle Village. | |
Great job to all the amazing 2024 Delaware County senior athletes—see you in 2025! | |
DCHD Delivers: Health Department to Hold Back to School Fair Donation Drive | |
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The Delaware County Health Department (DCHD) is excited to announce its latest "DCHD Delivers" initiative—a Back to School Fair Donation Drive being held now through August 7.
We need your help to make this a success!
To ensure our students receive as much support as possible, we are encouraging residents and community members to participate in the donation drive, alongside DCHD and members of the Delaware County team.
Through the August 7 end-date, the County will be collecting new school supplies, stationery, and hygiene items at eight drop-off locations in Delaware County listed below.
Donated items will be distributed during our Back to School Fair scheduled for August 10.
Donation Bin Locations
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Delaware County Government Center: 201 W. Front St., Media
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DCHD Wellness Center at Yeadon: 125 Chester Ave., Yeadon
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DCHD Wellness Center at Chester: 151 W. 5th St., Chester
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DCHD Administrative Building: Baldwin Towers, 1510 Chester Pk., Unit 700, Eddystone
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Yeadon Public Library: 809 Longacre Blvd, Yeadon
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Darby Free Library: 1001 Main St., Darby
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Springfield WIC Center: 1260 Woodland Ave #211, Springfield
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Children First: Philadelphia, 990 Spring Garden St, Unit 200, Philadelphia
YMCA Bin Locations
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Ridley: 900 South Ave., Secane
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Springfield: 194 W Sproul Rd., Springfield
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Lansdowne: 2110 Garrett Rd., Upper Darby
Needed Items
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New School Supplies: Notebooks, binders, folders, loose-leaf paper, rulers
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Stationary Items: Pens, pencils, colored pencils/markers, dry-erase markers, erasers, highlighters, glue sticks, crayons
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Hygiene Supplies: Hand sanitizer, antibacterial wipes, tissues
"Education is a social determinant of health and by providing essential school supplies to students we are preparing them not only for academic success but healthier lives,” said Delaware County Health Department Director Melissa Lyon. "Our back-to-school donation drive seeks to ensure every student has the tools they need to reach their full potential in the classroom and life."
More details about the Back-to-School Fair event on August 10 will be made available soon.
For more information about how you can help, contact the DCHD Wellness Line by phone at (484) 276-2100 or by email at DelcoWellness@co.delaware.pa.us.
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Introducing the Delaware County Office of Data and Mapping Innovation (ODMI) | |
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The Delaware County Office of Data and Mapping Innovation (ODMI) is a County department dedicated to utilizing advanced Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to support a wide range of County functions and help residents and decision-makers at local, state, and federal levels visualize complex issues and make informed decisions.
The primary mission of ODMI is to create and maintain geospatial data—including infrastructure, environmental, boundary, and community data. This data is then transformed into static maps and mapping applications, which are accessible to the community.
ODMI, also known as the 'Data and Mapping Team,' supports all County departments with mapping services to enhance their workflows and public engagement, collaborates with local governments and private entities to provide valuable data and insights, and offers public access to a wealth of geographic data through an open data site, making it easier for people to explore and utilize the information.
The goal? To provide visual tools that make complex information easier to understand and use for all stakeholders.
"ODMI's mapping capabilities have been indispensable in supporting and informing strategic decisions for numerous projects," said Delaware County Council Member Christine Reuther. "The precision and clarity of their data visualizations enable us to make smart and informed decisions that directly benefit our community."
ODMI team's efforts are especially crucial in enhancing transparency and community engagement. By making detailed, accurate geographic data freely available, they empower residents, businesses, and researchers to explore and analyze information specific to their needs. Whether it's understanding flood risks, locating public facilities, or observing changes in land use, the maps created serve as vital tools for education, planning, and policy making.
ODMI’s work is pivotal in tackling a wide range of challenges, from urban planning and public safety to environmental management and economic development. By transforming raw data into interactive maps and comprehensive visualizations, the team provides valuable insights that are easily accessible and understandable.
"Under the leadership of Julie DelMuto, our Data and Mapping Team (ODMI) has continually surpassed expectations," said John Becht, the County’s Information and Technology Director. "Julie’s innovative approaches and commitment to solving complex data challenges have significantly enhanced our operations and service delivery."
|  | The Office of Data and Mapping Innovation team, pictured left to right: Amanda Hagan, Senior GIS Specialist; Sara Arnold, Senior GIS Specialist; Julie DelMuto, GIS Manager | |
Recent Projects and Applications
The Delaware County Office of Data and Mapping Innovation (ODMI) has actively collaborated with a broad array of internal and external partners, delivering essential visualization tools. These tools enable local and regional stakeholders to gain a clearer understanding of diverse factors, ranging from physical geographic characteristics to demographic trends and beyond.
“We’re proud of our recent collaboration with the Department of Human Services, Emergency Services, the Office of the Medical Examiner, and the County’s Health Department to organize data to help address the opioid crisis here in Delaware County,” said DelMuto. “In developing an internal dashboard, we’re enabling stakeholders to easily visualize metrics and trends, improving the County’s ability to address the epidemic and help save lives.”
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Open Data Hub
ODMI recently launched a new web-based “Open Data Hub” that allows users to explore map applications and data by category, such as “Historic & Natural Resources,” Transportation,” “Demographics,” “County & Municipal Services,” and “Land Development & Zoning.” The new Hub also includes a survey for users to provide feedback regarding the maps presented online.
In addition to the newly launched Open Data Hub and efforts to combat opioid addiction, ODMI has completed work on a variety of map-based tools for Delaware County. Recent ODMI highlights include:
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Delaware County Parks and Trails Explorer: An interactive application showcasing parks and trails maintained by the County, allowing users to see the park layout and amenities.
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Human Services Provider Locations: An interactive viewer providing locations of Human Services providers within Delaware County for residents in need of assistance.
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Prison and Human Services Coordination: Showed overlapping services between entities and identified focus areas for resource usage to help reduce incarceration and recidivism.
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New Park Planning: Created maps for the park master plan in coordination with the Planning Department and Park consultant to assess current inventory of infrastructure and natural resources.
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Shop Delco: In partnership with the Chamber of Commerce, this application showcases local businesses and allows them to add themselves to the map easily.
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Subdivision Capture: Coordinated with the Planning Department to take historical paper maps of subdivisions and land developments and make them viewable with existing spatial data for planning commission reviews.
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Veterans Discount Program: Developed a dashboard showcasing businesses offering discounts to veterans.
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Who Are My Elected Representatives?: A new application that helps residents find their local, state, and federal elected representatives, complete with contact information.
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Accessing ODMI’s Work: Maps for Everyone!
Residents and interested parties can access ODMI’s maps and data online through their open data site. Here are some of the many impressive ODMI map-based tools to check out.
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Looking Ahead
In 2024, ODMI plans to launch a municipal GIS program to provide professional GIS services and resources to municipalities within its jurisdiction. This initiative aims to offer affordable and comprehensive GIS services, fostering enhanced local governance and community engagement.
ODMI also looks forward to working on new projects requested by County departments, partners organizations, and community stakeholders.
Requesting Custom Maps
Local governments, non-profits, businesses, and the general public are encouraged to contact ODMI to request the development of new maps as well as prints of existing maps (8 1/2" x 11" up to 24" x 36").
To request services, contact ODMI by email at data_mapping@co.delaware.pa.us.
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ODMI is committed to enhancing the quality of life for Delaware County residents by providing easy access to valuable geographic data, fostering informed decision-making, and promoting community engagement through innovative mapping solutions.
Visit the ODMI website at DelcoPA.Gov/ODMI/Mapping.html.
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Delaware County Mosquito Pool Tests Positive for West Nile Virus | |
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The Delaware County Health Department (DCHD) announces it has identified the first “pool” of mosquitoes that are positive for West Nile virus in 2024. At this time no human cases have been reported in Delaware County.
Most people (8 out of 10) infected with West Nile virus do not develop any symptoms.
About 1 in 5 people who are infected develop a fever with other symptoms such as headache, body aches, joint pains, vomiting, diarrhea, or rash. Most people who develop symptoms of West Nile virus recover completely, but fatigue and weakness can last for weeks or months.
About 1 in 150 people who are infected develop a severe illness affecting the central nervous system such as encephalitis (inflammation of the brain) or meningitis (inflammation of the membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord).
“Preventing the spread of West Nile virus is up to everyone in Delaware County,” said Delaware County Health Department Director Melissa Lyon. “Routinely checking for standing water sources and discarding potential breeding areas on your property can help reduce the chance for your family and neighbors of getting sick.”
The most effective way to prevent the spread of West Nile virus is to keep mosquitoes from breeding on your property. To protect themselves and to help prevent the spread of West Nile virus, residents are encouraged to remember the ‘Three Ds’:
DRAIN. Anything that can hold water can breed mosquitoes, from soda bottle caps to discarded tires. Check your property for these sources of standing water and dump them out. At least once or twice a week, empty water from flowerpots, pet food and water dishes, birdbaths, swimming pool covers, buckets, barrels, cans, wheelbarrows, boats, cargo trailers, toys and any other items outside your home. Empty and store wading pools for kids on their side, and any other sources of standing water outside your home.
DRESS. Wear clothing like long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats to protect against bug bites. You can further protect yourself by tucking your pants into your boots. Wearing long-sleeved shirts and pants is a great way to prevent not only mosquito bites but tick bites as well.
DEFEND. Wear insect repellent with DEET, Picaridin, or Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus on exposed skin when outdoors. Another effective repellent is Permethrin. Be sure to carefully follow the instructions on the labels when using these repellants.
Mosquito investigation information can be found on the Environmental Health Alerts page.
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Traveling Soon? Here's What You Need to Know About Getting Your Passport in Delaware County | |
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Planning your next adventure abroad?
The Delaware County Office of Judicial Support is here to help you get your passport ready! Whether it's a European getaway or a tropical retreat, having the necessary documents to apply for your passport is the first step to making those travel dreams come true.
Exciting News: Passport Appointments Can Now Be Made Online!
The Passport Division, located in Room 127 of the Government Center at 201 West Front Street in Media now offers the convenience of online appointment booking.
Residents can now schedule their passport appointments with ease by completing the Delaware County Passport Appointment form. Most appointments take only 20 minutes.
Appointment Preparation Reminders
Before arriving for your appointment - make sure all documents are filled out completely and all supporting documents such as birth certificates, expired passports, driver's licenses, social security cards, and any other information needed to process your application are included. All applications must be completed using black ink only before arriving for your appointment.
Fees:
- Photos: $10 (cash or money order only)
- Execution fee: $35 (cash or money order only)
All other passport fees must be paid via check or money order only made payable to the US Department of State.
Adult Renewals
Adult passport renewals are not processed at the Delaware County office. A renewal can be done six months before the passport expires and is considered a renewal for up to 5 years after expiration.
Adult renewals can be done online through the U.S. Department of State.
It’s important to remember that while the Delaware County Office of Judicial Support assists with passport applications, all passports are processed through the U.S. Department of State.
For more information on passport services please visit the Delaware County Passport division online or call at (610) 891-4967.
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Delaware County Summer Concert Series Upcoming Performances | |
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, typically at 7:30 p.m. (children's performances have day time hours). The complete schedule can be found on the Parks and Recreation website. | |
Upcoming Performances: July 13 - July 19 | | |
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Whole Lotta AC/DC
Saturday, July 13
7:30 p.m.
For those about to Rock, we salute you! Feel the thunder, power, and frenzy of this full authentic stage show complete with cannons, Hells Bells, and all things AC/DC.
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Blackbird Society Orchestra
Sunday, July 14
7:30 p.m.
The Roaring '20s come alive! Duke Ellington, The Cotton Club, Louis Armstrong, Flappers, Gangsters & all roots of Jazz, Blues, Pop and Pre-Swing America in its full glory!
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Minas
Wednesday, July 17
7:30 p.m.
American Jazz and Brazilian rhythms on piano, guitar and vocals, accompanied by drums, bass, sax, flute, trumpet. Beautiful Bossa Nova, sultry Samba and more!
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FuseBox
Thursday, July 18
7:30 p.m.
7-piece cover band playing the greatest songs from the '60s through today, from the Rolling Stones, the Beatles, Motown, Elvis, Bruno Mars, Country hits and more.
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Savoy Truffle: Music of George Harrison
Friday, July 19
7:30 p.m.
Timeless classics... from his Beatles work, solo hits & Traveling Wilburys fame, including "Here Comes the Sun," "Something," "My Sweet Lord," "Handle with Care" and much more.
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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.
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County Council’s Next Regular Public Meeting Scheduled for July 17 | |
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Delaware County Council will hold its next Regular Public Meeting on Wednesday, July 17, 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
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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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