The Delaware County Weekly

Bringing Delco news and information directly to our residents!

—— June 7, 2024 (124th edition) ——

Delaware County Council was proud to join dozens of County employees, various elected leaders, members of the LGBTQQIA+ community including Vice President of U.D.T.J. and the Logistics Coordinator of the Upper Darby Pride Festival Kyle T. McIntyre to raise the Progress Pride Flag outside of the Courthouse in Media on June 6. 

The flag was raised in honor of Pride Month, a month dedicated to recognizing the need to achieve equal justice and equal opportunity for LGBTQQIA+ Americans. Pride Month was established in honor of the 1969 Stonewall Uprising in Manhattan which was considered the tipping point for the Gay Liberation Movement in the United States.

County Council was proud to make history in 2022, raising the Pride Flag at the Courthouse for the first time in the County’s history. 

During the flag raising, Delaware County Council Chair Dr. Monica reflected on the symbolism of the Progress Pride flag.

“The flag raising is a testament that our County respects, recognizes, and celebrates the lives of our residents and employees in the LGBTQQIA+ community,” said Dr. Taylor. “As community members walk past the Courthouse this month, we hope the Pride Progress Flag is a reflection of respect and a reminder of the need for love and tolerance.”

The ceremony also included remarks from County Team Member Tony Oriente who delivered an impactful and personal story about living as a member of the LGBTQQIA+ community, and Vice President of U.D.T.J. Kyle T. McIntyre, who highlighted various LGBTQQIA+ events in the county including the June 8 Pride Festival being held in Upper Darby.

In addition to the dozens of County leaders and employees who participated, various organizations including “Free Mom Hugs” and “Delco Dads” and residents of the community gathered to celebrate the raising of the Pride flag.

The Progress Pride Flag will fly outside of the Delaware County Courthouse and the Government Center through the month of June.  

Jess Branas, Upper Darby Council Member

Kyle T. McIntyre, Vice President of U.D.T.J.

Members of LGBTQQIA+ ally organization Free Mom Hugs

Members of the community, including staff from the Public Defender's Office, celebrate the raising of the Pride Progress flag!

Click to watch the County's recording of the Pride Month Flag Raising

Pride Month Kickoff at U.D.T.J. Parade in Media

Delaware County Chair Dr. Monica and Council Member Elaine Paul Schaefer was also honored to help kick off Pride Month by participating in the U.D.T.J. Delaware County Pride Month Parade on State Street in Media on June 1. 

The parade featured a diverse array of participants, including families, kids, and seniors- all unified in their support for LGBTQQIA+ rights and expression. The event was a vibrant celebration, with colorful signs, pride flags, and residents of all ages coming together to show their support for the LGBTQ+ community.

Allies, individuals who actively support and advocate for the LGBTQQIA+ community, joined in the festivities, emphasizing the importance of unity, acceptance, and standing up for equal rights.

Delaware County Council is committed to the principles of equity and inclusivity, and Council actively supports initiatives that foster a welcoming and supportive environment for all residents, regardless of their sexual orientation, gender identity, or expression.

Delaware County's Pride Parade is more than just a celebration; it is a powerful statement of the community's dedication to upholding the rights and dignity of the LGBTQQIA+ community. By standing together, the residents of Delaware County demonstrate their unwavering support for diversity, equality, and the ongoing fight for justice and acceptance for all.

Active members of the United States Army and Army Veterans are invited to join County officials in the raising of the United Sates Army Flag on June 14 at 1:30 p.m. in front of the Delaware County Courthouse located at 201 West Front Street in Media. 

The flag will be raised to commemorate the anniversary of the United States Army, which was established on June 14, 1775. It will fly from the flagpole in front of the Courthouse and the Government Center complex throughout the week.

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 will be raised at appropriate times later this year in observance of the U.S. 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. 

Council extends its gratitude to all of those who have served or are serving, protecting our country.

We hope you can join us in honoring Army Veterans and active members of the Army!

Delaware County is joining thousands of communities, advocates, organizations, and government agencies across the country to raise awareness about gun violence by participating in National “Wear Orange.”

The origins of Wear Orange go back to January 21, 2013, when 15-year old Illinois resident Hadiya Pendleton marched in President Obama’s second inaugural parade. One week later, Hadiya was tragically shot and killed on a playground in Chicago. Soon after this tragedy, Hadiya’s childhood friends decided to commemorate her life by wearing orange, the color hunters wear in the woods to protect themselves and others.

Wear Orange was first observed on June 2, 2015—what would have been Hadiya’s 18th birthday—and has since expanded to a period of three days each year. This year, Wear Orange will take place June 7, 8 and 9.

The County is joining this movement as part of our commitment to violence prevention and anti-violence education. On June 7, members of the County team wore orange in support of the awareness campaign and the Delaware County Courthouse will be lit up orange from June 7-9. 

The County is committed to preventing and ending gun violence in our community. The County's leadership, community partners, and residents are resilient and determined, and we share a commitment to create lasting change.

Residents can learn more on the Wear Orange website.

The Delaware County team at the County Office of Services for the Aging (COSA)

Delaware County Elections Department staff in Chester

Delaware County District Attorney Jack Stollsteimer and County Sheriff Jerry L. Sanders Jr. join staff outside the Delaware County Courthouse in Media

Free concert series features live music five nights per week at the Rose Tree Amphitheater

Get ready to groove, Delaware County!

On Wednesday, June 12, the 2024 Rose Tree Summer Festival concert series officially kicks off its 49th year with free concerts each Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday evening through August 11.

Delaware County’s Parks and Recreation Department has hosted the popular music series annually since Rose Tree Park first opened in 1975, showcasing an amazing variety of bands and musicians for well over a million attendees over nearly five decades.

“We’re very proud to present the concert series to the public each summer,” said Parks and Recreation Director Marc Manfre. “It’s one of Delco’s finest traditions, and everyone looks forward to it.”

With nightly live entertainment, fans can enjoy a variety of genres throughout the summer, including Rock, Pop, Blues, Broadway, R&B, Reggae, Big Band, Brazilian Jazz, and more.

From orchestral performances, like the Delaware County Symphony on opening night, to jam bands like Three Fourteen, the Festival offers something for everyone. Eclectic music lovers can enjoy Triple Rail Turn’s country rock one night, a Billy Joel tribute show on another, and irresistible Yacht Rock on yet another. There are also three special morning concerts for children, which begin at 10:00 a.m. on June 14, June 27, and July 3.

Annual favorites like The Fabulous Greaseband, Sensational Soul Cruisers, Chico’s Vibe, and Jimmy & the Parrots will be returning, along with exciting new tribute acts like Wooden Ships, Mysterious Ways, Savoy Truffle, and the ‘70s Midnight Rock Show.

The Summer Festival will also feature a special night on Wednesday, June 19, as the Philly Gumbo concert at 7:30 p.m. headlines County’s 3rd annual Juneteenth Celebration. Festivities begin at 4:00 p.m. with vendors, food trucks, and presenters, before Philly Gumbo takes the stage at 7:30 p.m.

Printed schedules are available in Rose Tree Park, the Government Center in Media, and at Delaware County Libraries. The schedule is also available on the Summer Festival website at DelcoPA.Gov/Parks.

What to Know Before You Go

Admission and parking are free. Audience members should bring blankets and chairs for seating and may bring their own snacks. Light concessions will be for sale. Parents should note that the playground closes ten minutes before showtime.

Pets are not permitted within the amphitheater “bowl.” Leashed, friendly dogs may accompany guests in the outermost seating areas on the hilltops. Alcohol and smoking are prohibited. Spray-on sunscreen or bug spray should be applied prior to entering the seating area.

Handicapped parking is available. The Rose Tree Summer Festival concerts are weather permitting; there are no rain dates. 

Delaware County Council congratulates the students from Penncrest High School for their outstanding performance and first place finish at the recent 32nd Annual Delaware County Envirothon, the environmental and natural resource problem-solving competition that builds leadership experience for high school students (grades 9-12 or ages 14-19).

Coordinated annually by the Delaware County Conservation District (DCCD), the Delaware County Envirothon brings together high school students from across the county to test their knowledge of natural resource concepts by encouraging the exploration of environmental education and natural resource conservation through the study of Aquatic Ecology, Forestry, Soils and Land Use, Wildlife, and Current Environmental Issues.

Held at Ridley Creek State Park on April 30, this year's Envirothon featured representatives from the Pennsylvania Game Commission, the Pennsylvania Fish & Boat Commission, DCNR’s Bureau of Forestry, USDA’s Natural Resource Conservation Service, and the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, who oversaw testing stations and shared their career experiences with the students.

Penncrest's Proud Tradition of Envirothon Excellence

This marks Penncrest’s third consecutive county-level victory—and their twenty-eighth first place finish at the county level since 1993! 

Impressively, in addition to three back-to-back first place finishes among Delaware County schools, Penncrest came in 1st place at the Pennsylvania statewide Envirothon competition in 2023, and took 2nd place nationally, beating out hundreds of schools representing all fifty states that competed at the local, state, and national competitions. 

“Penncrest’s consistent performance and dedication to the Envirothon are truly commendable,” said Delaware County Council Member Elaine Paul Schaefer. “Their achievements reflect the hard work and passion of both the students and their advisors, and we are incredibly proud of their success.”

Led by their teacher advisor, Mark Samilenko, the 2024 Penncrest Gold Team members include Jordan Knox, Leo Ouyang, Lucy DiGuiseppe, Teddy Beshara, and Kayra Sacan. Kudos to these talented students for their dedication and hard work!

Penncrest's "Gold Team": First place in Delco and 5th place at the State competition! Congratulations!

About the Delaware County Conservation District

The DCCD's mission is to ensure the wise use of Delaware County’s natural resources and to protect and restore the natural environment through the conservation of its soil, water, and related resources. Supported by its Board of Directors, the DCCD achieves its goals through permitting programs delegated by the PA Department of Environmental Protection and various education and outreach efforts.

“The Delaware County Envirothon is an excellent opportunity for students to get outside and learn about the natural world around them,” said Karen Wilwol, Executive Director of DCCD. “By exposing students to natural resource concepts and potential career paths in the environmental field, we hope to foster an awareness of conservation efforts and encourage future stewardship of our natural resources.” 

Delaware County Schools: Get Involved for 2025!

DCCD welcomes all Delaware County high schools to participate in the 2025 competition. For more information, schools should contact the Delaware County Conservation District at (610) 892-9484. Recruitment for next year’s competition will begin at the end of the 2024 calendar year. Registration information will be sent out in Spring of 2025.

More information about the competition can be found on the PA Envirothon website. More information about the Delaware County Conservation District can be found on the DCCD website.

With summer only two weeks away, the Delaware County Health Department is reminding residents to take precautions to protect themselves and their pets against ticks. When the weather gets warmer, outdoor activities and the potential for tick bites increase.

"According to the Pennsylvania Department of Health (PADOH), Lyme disease cases in 2024 have shown a similar trend to the previous year to this point,” said Delaware County Health Department Director Melissa Lyon. “However, the peak season for Lyme disease cases typically occurs during the hotter months and residents should take proper precautions as we get ready for summer. Use repellants, check for ticks, and shower after being outdoors."

Ticks can spread illnesses, including Lyme disease, and can potentially make you or your pets very sick. Lyme disease, the bacterial disease transmitted by deer ticks, is the most commonly reported tickborne disease in Pennsylvania.

Lyme disease is an illness caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi. These bacteria are carried by the black-legged tick, also known as the deer tick. When an infected tick bites, it can transfer bacteria under the skin, leading to infection. If diagnosed and treated early, many patients recover. However, if not diagnosed or treated early, Lyme disease can develop into a chronic illness that leads to long-term, serious health problems and reduced quality of life. In rare cases, Lyme disease can result in death.

Whether you are hitting the hiking trails, tending to your garden, or out for a walk with your dog, ticks can bite. 

There are ways to prevent tick bites and the diseases associated with them!

First, Know their Habitats

Ticks are typically found in wooded areas, in areas of high rodent and animal activity, and in high vegetation. Larval and nymphal ticks can be picked up from leaf litter or any organic ground cover as well as low woods edge vegetation. Adult ticks generally climb onto grass, shrubs, or high vegetation and wait with their forelegs stretched. This position is called “questing”. As a tick’s prey passes by and brushes up against the questing tick, it can latch on and feed.

Secondly, Protect Yourself

When out in nature, stay on the beaten path and out of thick, overgrown vegetation when ticks are active. There are also many repellents available such as Picaridin and Permethrin. When applied to clothing, Permethrin is not only good at repelling ticks, but it also kills them. When using Permethrin, it is important to remember that it must be applied to clothing and dried before putting them on! Protective clothing is also key to preventing tick bites. Clothing like long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats are protective against bug bites and you can further protect yourself by tucking your pants into your boots. 

Checking for Ticks

Always check for ticks when returning from areas that resemble the habitats described above. Tick bites are most commonly found in and around your hair, ears, underarms, belly button, waist, legs, and behind the knees. If a tick is found burrowed in the skin, do not use alcohol or repellents, as they may regurgitate infected saliva into you.

To remove a tick that has burrowed into the skin, use tweezers to grasp the tick by its mouthpart and pull it directly out. After the tick is removed wash the area, and if a rash appears after, seek medical attention.

Check out the Tickborne Diseases Dashboard

The PA Department of Health launched a Tickborne Diseases Dashboard this year to help residents and institutions track Lyme disease spread, incidents of tickborne diseases, emergency department visits, and more. The dashboard can be found on the PADOH website.

Note: Prior to 2022, reported cases were required to have a combination of clinical and laboratory findings to meet the national CDC/CSTE case definition. Beginning in 2022, high incidence states like Pennsylvania adopted a lab only case definition in which cases are reported based on positive laboratory reports alone and do not require clinical findings. Due to the decreased burden on both health care providers and public health personnel, this is projected to increase reported case counts in Pennsylvania and other high incidence states. 

Whether you're an avid trailblazer or simply enjoy a leisurely stroll surrounded by nature, Visit Delco’s new Trails & Tails pass promises to ignite your spirit of exploration with your four-legged friend. 

From the sprawling woodlands of Ridley Creek State Park to the tranquil serenity of Wawa Preserve, this free, easy-to-use mobile pass gives residents access to a curated list of dog-friendly parks and trails throughout Delco.

With the Trails & Tails pass, residents can earn points for every trail check-in and are incentive to reach milestones to unlock coveted Delco swag for both you and your pooch. Sign up via the link below to start your adventure!

How the Pass Works

• Step 1 - Get Your Pass. Click on the link below, and input your name, email, and mobile phone number. This mobile-exclusive passport is a collection of curated parks and trails for you to explore throughout Delco.
• Step 2 - Receive Text. Your passport will be instantly delivered to your phone via text and email and is ready to use immediately! There is no app to download. Your pass can be saved to your phone’s home screen for easy one-tap access.
• Step 3 – Redeem. When visiting a participating point of interest, simply ensure your phone location services are turned on to check in via GPS and count towards your prize!

Delco Trail Mix: Trails & Tails Pass Features

• Mobile exclusive
• Instantly delivered via text and email
• No apps to download
• Explore the best dog-friendly trails throughout Delco!

Check out the Visit Delco website for more information about fun activities and events happening in Delaware County this summer at VisitDelcoPA.com.

School Vaccine Clinic for Students (7th and 12th grade)

Get ahead of the new school year with a free vaccine clinic for rising 7th and 12th-grade students. The clinic will offer TDAP and Meningitis (MCV4) vaccines. Pre-registration is required. Students do not need insurance, but vaccine records must be provided prior to the event. If the student is under 18, a parent or guardian must be present.

Date: June 8, 2024

Time: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Location: Yeadon Wellness Center, 125 Chester Ave., Yeadon, PA 19050

To Register: Call the Delaware County Wellness Line at (484) 276-2100 or email DelcoWellness@co.delaware.pa.us.

CPR Certification Training

Join us for a free CPR certification training through the Delco Revive program. This training session is essential for anyone looking to learn lifesaving skills.

Date: June 10, 2024

Time: 5:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.

Location: Delaware County Wellness Center, 125 Chester Ave., Yeadon, PA 19050

To Register: Go to DCHD's CPR Certification Training Registration Form or visit the Delco Revive program website at DelcoRevive.com for more program details.

Mammogram Screenings in Chester

In partnership with the Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, DCHD is offering free mammogram screenings to promote breast cancer awareness and early detection. Appointments are limited, and registration is required.

Date: June 11, 2024

Time: 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM

Location: Delaware County Wellness Center, 151 W. 5th Street, Chester, PA 19013

To Register: Call the Delaware County Wellness Line at (484) 276-2100 or email DelcoWellness@co.delaware.pa.us. Registration is quick and easy, and all registered individuals will receive a confirmation call.

In addition, DCHD provides weekly and bi-weekly STI and immunization clinics at both Wellness Centers in Yeadon and Chester. For dates, times, and availability visit DCHD's Community and Clinic Event Calendar on the DCHD website.

For more information about these events and other health services, please visit the Delaware County Health Department website at DelcoPA.Gov/Health.

Delaware County Govt Official 2024 Calendar

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