The Delaware County Weekly

Bringing Delco news and information directly to our residents!

—— June 21, 2024 (126th edition) ——

Recording artist and songwriter Ashli Rice kicked off the festivities with a beautiful performance of the National Anthem and Charnee Washington, a member of the County’s HR team, followed with a soulful rendition of the Black National Anthem. James Hayes, Budget Director for Delaware County, provided a poignant reading on Juneteenth's history.

Maliha Simmons, crowned “Little Miss Juneteenth PA” last year, also spoke about the significance of Juneteenth. The Miss Juneteenth USA Pageant is an educational and scholarship-driven program focusing on community service, education, and cultural awareness.

More About Juneteenth

Juneteenth is the oldest nationally celebrated commemoration of the ending of slavery in the United States. On June 19, 1865, Major General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston, Texas, and announced the end of both the Civil War and slavery. His announcement enforced the Emancipation Proclamation, issued by President Abraham Lincoln, which had legally freed slaves on January 1, 1863, almost 2½ years earlier. Many slaves, particularly in Texas and other southwestern states, were not informed of the Emancipation Proclamation until General Granger’s announcement. The holiday received its name by combining June and 19, and is also sometimes called “Juneteenth Independence Day,” “Freedom Day,” or “Emancipation Day.”

Juneteenth serves as a vital educational tool, shedding light on American history, particularly the era of slavery, emancipation, and the ongoing civil rights struggles. It offers a moment to reflect on past injustices and their lasting impact, fostering crucial discussions about equality, justice, and the relentless pursuit of civil rights.

The National Weather Service in Philadelphia/Mount Holly reports that a Heat Advisory is in effect for Delaware County, southeast PA, most of NJ, and northern DE, with heat indices reaching 95 to 100 degrees late Friday.

Additionally, an Excessive Heat Watch will be in effect for the remainder of the weekend, with Saturday's and Sunday’s heat indices anticipated to exceed 100 degrees. 

Relief from the heat is not expected until Monday, when a cold front is forecasted to pass through the region.

Prolonged exposure to excessive heat can cause heat-related stress, particularly among at-risk populations including children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing conditions. To beat the heat, remember to stay indoors in cool areas, hydrate regularly, and check on others, including neighbors, loved ones, and pets.

The Delaware County Office of Services and Aging (COSA) and the Delaware County Health Department (DCHD) continue to urge vulnerable populations to take necessary precautions to stay cool and safe during this extreme heat period.

Staying Cool at COSA Senior Centers

COSA urges seniors to visit local senior centers to enjoy air conditioning and other amenities. The following COSA-funded senior centers are available for relief during the heat of the day:

• Chester Senior Center. 721 Hayes St., Chester, 19013 – (610) 497-3550
• Surrey Media. 302 South Jackson St., Media, 19063 – (610) 566-0505
• Friendship Circle. 1515 Lansdowne Ave., Darby, 19023 – (610) 237-6222
• Schoolhouse Senior Center. 600 Swarthmore Ave., Folsom, 19033 – (610) 237-8100
• Good Neighbor Senior Center. 1085 Hook Rd., Sharon Hill, 19079 – (610) 586-8170
• Upper Darby Senior Center. 326 Watkins Ave., Upper Darby, 19082 – (610) 734-7652
• Surrey Center for Healthy Living. 505 Parkway Dr., Broomall, 19008 – (610) 446-2070
• Wayne Senior Center. 108 Station Rd., Wayne, 19087 – (610) 688-6246

Free Fans for Seniors

Free fans are available to seniors at all COSA-funded senior centers and at COSA's Baldwin Tower office in Eddystone. To inquire about obtaining a free fan, call COSA at (610) 490-1300. More information is available on the COSA website at DelCOSA.org.

Staying Cool at Delaware County Libraries

Visiting one of Delaware County's 28 member libraries is another excellent strategy to stay cool. Each library is air-conditioned, offering not only a respite from the heat but also access to free amenities such as books, magazines, digital resources, and community programs.

All locations are open on Saturdays, with Haverford, Marple, Middletown, Radnor, and Rachel Kohl libraries also open on Sundays.

Visit the Delaware County Libraries website for specific library locations and hours of operation.

24/7 Informational Weather Line

Seniors can contact Delaware County's 24/7 Informational Weather Line at (610) 872-1558 for support and information throughout the summer.

Delaware County residents can also reach the DCHD Wellness Line at (484) 276-2100 and go online at DelcoPA.Gov/Health for additional help with the heat.

Delaware County showcased its dedication to a sustainable future by hosting its 3rd Annual Sustainability Conference on May 30, at Widener University. The event, organized by the County’s Office of Sustainability, attracted over 300 attendees including community members, business owners, government officials, and sustainability practitioners, all eager to network, share information, and collaborate on sustainable initiatives.

The "Sustainability in Action" conference aimed to equip participants with the necessary tools to implement sustainability within their communities. The event included a diverse group of participants, including over 50 ninth-grade students from Chester Upland High School, more than 230 in-person professionals, 55 online attendees, and 39 exhibitors.

Delaware County Council Member Elaine Paul Schaefer opened the conference, emphasizing sustainability as a guiding value for the community. “This county has placed a high priority on making sustainability a guiding value that is echoed in the community that we serve,” said Schaefer, who added, “Today we come together not only to inform and inspire and get each other motivated but also empower into action this year’s theme Sustainability in Action, which comes after two years of successful programming.”  

Widener University President Stacey Robertson highlighted the various conference tracks, ensuring there was something for everyone.

Chester City Mayor Stefan Roots formally welcomed attendees to the City of Chester. He expressed his excitement about Chester serving as the host location again and shared his definition of sustainability, noting, “sustainability is a social goal for people to co-exist on Earth over a long time, and our society’s ability to exist and develop without depleting the natural resources needed to live in the future.”

Chester City Mayor Stefan Roots shares his thoughts on sustainability

Widener University President Stacey Robertson outlines the day's agenda

Presenters included Miss Pennsylvania 2023, Miranda Moore, who spoke passionately about the fashion industry’s impact on sustainability, revealing some staggering statistics of fashion waste and carbon emissions. 

Moore’s mission is to change how we buy, wear, and think about fashion through awareness, representation, and engagement, and urged attendees to rethink their fashion choices, promoting secondhand shopping, sustainable products, and re-wearing existing clothing. “It can be really hard to feel like you can’t make change as one person, but I have been able to empower others to know they can be part of positive change” said Moore in reference to her ‘Take Action in Fashion’ initiative.”

Moore closed her presentation with a reminder that, “Since we are all part of the problem, we can also be part of the solution.”

Miss Pennsylvania 2023, Miranda Moore, presents Sustainable Fashion

During the conference, the Office of Sustainability recognized individuals and groups for their outstanding ‘sustainability in action’ efforts.

This year’s Sustainability award recipients included:

• Decarbonization Hero Award: Steven Goldfield, Delaware County Solid Waste Authority
• Sustainability Hero Award: Peter Puglionesi
• Sustainable Organization of the Year Award (Municipality): Haverford Township
• Sustainable Organization of the Year Award (Community): The Green Horn Initiative, Inc.
• Sustainable Project of the Year: Sam Krakow, Heat Pump Conversion Initiative
• Sustainability Rising Star Award: Presented to Chestnutwold Elementary School Roots and Shoots Club

Sustainability and Resilience Manager Becca Yurkovich provided updates on Sustain Delco

Sustainability and Resilience Manager Becca Yurkovich provided updates on the County’s ambitious Sustain Delco Plan, underscoring the importance of understanding the County's role in sustainability and the guiding principles of education, governance, equity, inclusion, justice, and economic sustainability.

She encouraged attendees to ask the "5 Whys" to make meaningful community changes, collaborate, and commit to taking action today.

One of many breakout sessions

Our Planning Department in action

Many departments pitching in!

So much to learn!

The event's breakout sessions, covering five tracks—Sustainable Living, Sustainable Businesses, Sustainable Organizations, Sustainable Communities, and Sustainability for All—provided attendees with practical knowledge and inspiration to implement sustainable practices in their daily lives and communities.

Thank you to the Office of Sustainability and all of the participants and attendees for the continued efforts to realize a sustainable future for the county and beyond.

For more information about the 2024 conference, including agendas and downloadable presentations, visit the Office of Sustainability's Sustainability Conference website, or click the link below to watch the recording of the day's highlights.

Click to watch the Sustainability Conference recording on the County's YouTube channel

In its effort to reduce access barriers, DCHD is making free resources available 24 hours a day

The Delaware County Health Department (DCHD) is thrilled to announce plans to roll out public health vending machines, known as ‘Test and Go’ kiosks, as part of an innovative initiative to provide fast and accurate public health testing and other critical health tools to residents of Delaware County. 

Unanimously approved during County Council’s Tuesday, June 18 Regular Public Meeting, these 24-hour public health vending machines—known as ‘Test and Go’ kiosks—will offer easily accessible testing, results, and health resources to County residents. The kiosks will be installed at three strategic locations: DCHD’s Wellness Center in Yeadon, the Keystone First Wellness and Opportunity Center in Chester, and the County Government Center in Media.

Strategically located at DCHD’s Wellness Center in Yeadon, the Keystone First Wellness and Opportunity Center in Chester, and the County Government Center in Media, these 24-hour kiosks will facilitate easy access to testing, results, and health resources. 

Funded through a federal COVID-19 testing-related grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Health, the kiosks will offer a variety of high-quality testing options. This includes laboratory (PCR) respiratory panel testing for COVID-19, Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), and Flu A/B, as well as home tests for COVID-19.

In addition to testing, the kiosks will dispense free public health items such as Narcan Nasal Spray, Fentanyl and Xylazine test strips, condoms, feminine hygiene kits, and first aid kits. These essential tools and services are available 24/7 at no cost to residents. DCHD has partnered with LTS (formerly known as Longview International Technology Solutions) to implement this project.

Some of the possible items under consideration for DCHD's ‘Test and Go’ kiosks

Designed to Meet Community Needs

“These adaptable kiosks are designed to meet community needs, enhance health resource access, and promote equity across Delaware County,” said Delaware County Health Department Director Melissa Lyon. “We are so appreciative of County Council’s support and approval of this vital health initiative and hope to continue breaking through health access barriers in Delaware County.”

Further details about the official launch date and instructions on how to use the customized kiosks will be shared in the coming months.

Watch Fox29's June 19 story, "Health kiosks coming to Delco to dispense lifesaving supplies"

Delaware County will host two Career Fairs on Tuesday, June 25, and Thursday, June 27, from 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m., at the Delaware County Department of Emergency Services, located at 360 N. Middletown Rd., in Media, PA.

These Career Fair are more than just hiring events; they are an opportunity for Delaware County residents to explore potential careers that offer fulfillment and the chance to contribute meaningfully to our community. Attendees will have an opportunity to meet the County Recruitment Team to discuss open positions and gain a better understanding of the job duties and the benefits offered, and have the team review their resumes and skills to help determine the best fit for available positions.

A wide range of Delaware County departments will be participating, actively seeking dedicated individuals for various full-time positions. These Career Fairs will highlight roles in Law Enforcement and Human Services, Administration, and Health as these areas are essential to our community's well-being. Tuesday's fair will focus on Human Services, while Thursday's theme is Law Enforcement, though all departments will be in attendance both days, and job seekers can discuss and apply for all open positions on both days.

Departments include the Delaware County Bureau of Elections, the Delaware County Controller’s Office, the County Office of Services for the Aging (COSA), the Department of Emergency Services, Facilities Management, Fair Acres, the George W. Hill Correctional Facility, the Delaware County Health Department, Human Resources, Human Services, Information Technology (IT), Park Police, and the Register of Wills & Clerk of Orphans' Court Division.

We encourage attendees to bring their resumes and be prepared for the possibility of on-the-spot interviews. This is a unique chance to make a personal connection with our Recruitment Team, learn about the roles that may intrigue you, and even receive immediate feedback on how your skills and experiences align with the County’s needs.

Over 100 Full-time Positions

Whether you're a seasoned professional or entering the workforce, the County has opportunities that cater to a broad spectrum of skills and interests, with full-time positions including: Board Secretary, Cashier, CNA’s (FT), Correctional Officer, County Engineer, County Nurse, Custodian, Deputy Sheriff , Groundskeeper, Marriage License Clerk, Network Specialist, Office Manager, Plumber, Probate Clerk, Receptionist, RNs & LPNs, Telecomm Technician, Trial Team Secretary, Volunteer Coordinator, and many more.

Positions offer competitive employee benefits as well as opportunities for advancement. 

For more details about the career fair, a full listing of available positions, and to apply online, please visit our website at DelcoPA.Gov/Jobs. Even if you cannot attend the fair, we still encourage you to explore and apply for open positions online. 

Our door is always open to talent eager to make a difference. Don't miss this chance to embark on a rewarding career path with Delaware County. Your future awaits!

Are you passionate about nature, culture, and community? Delaware County is looking for a dedicated resident to fill an exciting vacancy on the Parks and Recreation Board. This is a unique opportunity to play a pivotal role in shaping the outdoor and recreational landscape of our county.

As a board member, you will contribute to realizing the Parks and Recreation Department’s vision of sustainable, well-maintained, safe, and accessible parks, with a focus on preserving our land and enhancing community connections through a network of green spaces and trails that promote health, enjoyment, and learning.

Why Join the Parks and Recreation Board?

The Delaware County Parks and Recreation Department is not just about parks; it's a vital part of our community's health, culture, and well-being. The Department’s mission is to connect all Delco residents to the outdoors and foster a sense of pride in our natural and recreational resources. As a board member, you will contribute to a vision where our park system is not only a destination for relaxation and fun but also an integral part of daily life that shapes the character of Delaware County.

Board Member Responsibilities Include

• Advising on park programming, expansion, and usage of county-owned park land.
• Developing policies and procedures for recreational and park services.
• Recommending rules for the use of fields and facilities.
• Engaging with local communities through regular public meetings and interfacing with Friends Groups and local organizations.
• Influencing the budget and program development to enhance park offerings.

Parks and Recreation Board work is guided by a commitment to equity and inclusion, ensuring that everyone feels welcome. We prioritize environmental stewardship, using the best conservation practices to maintain our natural spaces for future generations. Safety and exceptional public service are at the heart of what we do, aiming to make Delaware County a beacon of community and natural beauty.

Meetings and Commitment

Board members attend six scheduled meetings per year, with additional visits to various county parks. Meetings may be held outdoors behind the Hunt Club Building at Rose Tree Park and/or conducted via Zoom or Microsoft Teams. Meeting dates for the remainder of the 2024 calendar year include July 10, September 11, and November 13.

Apply Today!

This role is not just a position, but a chance to be a proud steward of an extraordinary park system. Board members must be residents of Delaware County and are appointed for a three-year term. If you are driven by excellence and dedicated to public service, we encourage you to apply.

For more information about this board and other County boards and commissions, including an online application, go to https://delcopa.gov/clerk/boards.html.

Partnership with Nutritional Development Services to provide free breakfast or lunch to children under 18 at select library locations 

This summer, Delaware County Libraries is collaborating with Nutritional Development Services (NDS), an agency of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia, to offer free breakfasts and lunches to children under 18 at select libraries.

Participating Libraries:

1. Norwood Public Library is offering free lunches for children 18 and under through Thursday, August 22, from 12 noon to 1:00 p.m., Monday through Thursday. Please note that the library will be closed on July 4. Meals must be consumed on-site. For more details, call (610) 534-0693.
2. Sharon Hill Public Library is providing free lunches from noon to 2:00 PM, Monday through Friday, through Friday, August 16. Children aged 6-17 are eligible. Additionally, free breakfast is available from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m., starting Monday, July 8 through Friday, August 16. For more information, call (610) 586-3993.
3. Yeadon Public Library is serving free lunches as part of their arts & crafts program, which begins at 11:00 a.m. Lunch is provided at noon, Monday through Friday, until July 26. Meals must be eaten in the library. For additional information, call (610) 623-4090.

About Delaware County Libraries

Delaware County Libraries is an agency of county government that provides support services for 26 independent member libraries. For information about the wide range of library services available to all county residents, visit www.delcolibraries.org.

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: June 22- June 28

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.

The Delaware County Health Department is collaborating with Keystone First once again for its “Mindfulness Monday” series, with two free yoga classes at the Wellness Center in Yeadon on Monday, July 1.

"Yoga plays a crucial role in enhancing both physical and mental health, offering a holistic approach to well-being," said Delaware County Health Department Director Melissa Lyon. "Through yoga, residents can experience significant improvements in reducing stress, strength, and cardiovascular health."

Mindfulness involves dedicating time to activities that enhance your overall well-being, benefiting both your physical health and mental state.

Engaging in practices such as yoga can reduce stress, lower the likelihood of illness, and boost your energy levels. Integrating simple habits like eating a balanced diet, getting adequate sleep, and maintaining a regular exercise routine can significantly improve your life.

Classes will be held at the Wellness Center at Yeadon, located at 125 Chester Ave., Yeadon, PA 19050. Both sessions are free and open to individuals of all ages and experience levels.

Yoga Class Details

• Delaware County Wellness Center at Yeadon, 125 Chester Ave., Yeadon, PA 19050
• Monday July 1, 2024
• Morning session: 10:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. 
• Afternoon session: 12:00 p.m. - 1:30 p.m.

Registration Required!

Residents interested in attending these classes are required to register for them through the Delaware County Wellness line by phone at (484) 276-2100 or by email at DelcoWellness@co.delaware.pa.us.

Check for DCHD's bi-monthly mindfulness events running through September for more opportunities to cultivate mindfulness online at DelcoPA.Gov/Health.

Delaware County Govt Official 2024 Calendar

Meet Your Delaware County Council Members

Delaware County Weekly Sign Up & Past Editions