The Delaware County Weekly

Bringing Delco news and information directly to our residents!

—— September 20, 2024 (139th edition) ——

Delaware County Council and the Delaware County Health Department (DCHD), in partnership with Keystone First, celebrated the launch of three "Test and Go" health kiosks with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the Keystone First Wellness and Opportunity Center in Chester this week. 

The "Test and Go" Kiosk initiative is part of the County’s continued commitment to health equity. "Test and Go" kiosks are designed to ensure that anyone, regardless of income or access to health services, can obtain confidential testing results and other essential items quickly and conveniently.

Free public health items like flu and COVID-19 tests, Narcan, test strips, condoms, feminine hygiene supplies, and first aid kits have been strategically deployed to promote health equity and improve access to essential public health resources in Delaware County. 

"We knew we wanted to offer more than just COVID-19 testing with these Kiosks," said Interim Delaware County Health Department Director Lora Siegmann Werner. "These kiosks provide a range of health services, making it easier for residents to access care on their terms, at any time of day."

This week’s launch is also a proactive step in preparing for respiratory illness season in Delaware County. The new kiosks offer a range of high-quality testing options including a lab (PCR) respiratory panel test for COVID-19 and Flu A/B, with RSV expected to be added to the respiratory selections soon. Once residents return their specimens to the kiosks, they will receive their laboratory results within 24-48 hours via email or text. 

Rapid COVID-19 home (antigen) tests are also available, and later this year, DCHD hopes to add sexually transmitted infection (STI) laboratory tests.

“It’s partnerships like the one with the Delaware County Health Department and Chester City Officials that bring services and resources to the residents of Chester City,” said Keystone First Director of Public Affairs and Marketing Meg Grant.

The initiative is funded by a federal COVID-19 testing grant through the Pennsylvania Department of Health. The Delaware County Health Department has contracted with LTS (Longview International Technology Solutions) to implement the kiosks.

Rosetta Carter, Chester Director of Community Health Services, and Council Chair Taylor try out the new kiosk

City of Chester Mayor Stefan Roots and Council Chair Taylor make a selection. Kiosks are free and open 24/7

Delaware County Interim Health Department Director Lora Werner officially launches the 'Test and Go' Kiosks

Test and Go Kiosk Locations

Keystone First Wellness & Opportunity Center in Chester

1929 W 9th St., Chester, PA 19013

Delaware County Wellness Center at Yeadon

125 Chester Ave., Yeadon, PA 19050

Delaware County Government Center

201 W. Front St., Media, PA 19063

For more info, contact the Delaware County Health Department Wellness Line by phone (484) 276-2100 or by email at DelcoWellness@co.delaware.pa.us. Further information about harm reduction resources from the health department is also available at www.delcorevive.com.

Free public health items like flu and COVID-19 tests, Narcan, test strips, condoms, feminine hygiene supplies, and first aid kits are available 24/7 in Chester, Yeadon, and Media

Displaying the flag for the members of the media

Delaware County Park Police traditionally raise military and ceremonial flags

A solemn salute to those who served

Click to watch Delaware County's U.S. Air Force Flag Raising Ceremony

Delaware County Council, the Delaware County Planning Department, and numerous community partners are excited to commemorate the 200th anniversary of General Lafayette’s historic 1824 visit to Chester.

General Lafayette, formally known as General Gilbert du Motier, Marquis de Lafayette, a French aristocrat and a distinguished hero of the American Revolution, was instrumental in supporting the American colonies’ fight for independence.

He joined the Continental Army at a young age and played a critical role in several key battles, including the Battle of Brandywine, where he fought alongside General George Washington and led troops into battle despite being wounded. Lafayette’s dedication to the cause of liberty extended beyond the battlefield—he was a passionate advocate for the abolition of slavery in both America and France.

Lafayette’s 1824 visit to Chester was part of a grand national tour celebrating the United States’ 50th anniversary of independence. During his visit, he dined at the historic 1724 Chester Courthouse with local dignitaries and veterans of the Revolutionary War, marking a significant moment of reunion and remembrance.

Now, 200 years later, Delaware County will honor Lafayette’s legacy by re-enacting his grand procession through the streets of Chester and hosting a commemorative event at the same historic courthouse where he once stood. Join us in celebrating this momentous occasion and paying tribute to a man whose unwavering commitment to freedom and equality continues to inspire us all.

An afternoon of historic fun

"This celebration of General Lafayette’s visit honors not only his bravery during the American Revolution but also his enduring legacy of freedom and justice,” said Delaware County Planning Director Gina Burritt, “We are proud to bring the community together to relive this pivotal moment in history and commemorate 200 years of his impact on Chester and the nation."

This free event will feature reenactors, children’s activities, historical displays, vendors, and tours of the 1724 Chester Courthouse, concluding with the official ringing of the bell. Don’t miss Lafayette’s ceremonial arrival at 2:00 p.m., where he will deliver remarks and a proclamation to the City of Chester. Following the speech, guests are invited to a guided tour of the courthouse at 3:00 p.m. in honor of its 300th anniversary!

This free event will feature reenactors, kid’s activities, historical displays, vendor, and tours of the 1724 Chester Courthouse, concluding with the official ringing of the bell. Don’t miss Lafayette’s arrival at 2:0 p.m., where he will deliver remarks and a proclamation to the City of Chester along with a courthouse tour at 3:00 p.m. in honor of its 300th anniversary!

Bicentennial of Lafayette’s Farewell Tour



Saturday, October 5, 1:00 to 4:00 p.m.

400 block of the Avenue of the States

in Chester, PA

Lafayette200: A Historic Journey Across the Nation

Beginning on August 16, 2024, and continuing through September 2025, the Lafayette200 tour is retracing Lafayette’s original Farewell Tour, covering the same 6,000 miles and visiting the same 24 states, along with Washington D.C. This year-long commemoration features numerous events that highlight Lafayette’s enduring contributions to American history, and his steadfast support for democracy and human rights.

Delaware County is proud to be part of this national celebration, which not only honors Lafayette’s remarkable life but also his deep connections to our community. These important events are made possible through the hard work and support from the Delaware County Planning Department, Delaware County Historical Society, Chester Historical Preservation Committee/Friends of the 1724 Chester Courthouse, and the American Friends of Lafayette.

For more information on Lafayette’s Guest of the Nation tour and to explore other events and activities, please visit the Delaware County Planning Department’s website at Lafayette Day in Chester.

Delaware County Director of Military and Veteran’s Affairs Colonel (COL) Arthur Lee Jenkins, Jr., was honored to serve as the Keynote Speaker for a Congressional Gold Medal Ceremony held in Philadelphia on September 14, posthumously recognizing Corporal Oliver Strand Sr. and Corporal Abram Holland, members of the Montford Point Marines, for their service during World War II. 

Reflecting on the significance of the event, COL Jenkins remarked, “It was a powerful ceremony, and I was honored to step in and officiate. Delaware County proudly joins in celebrating these heroes and their contributions to our nation.”

Corporals Strand and Holland were part of the original Montford Point Marines, joining 20,000 other African-American men of distinction who chose to enlist in the segregated US Marine Corps, breaking a long-standing racial barrier. They trained at Montford Point, a separate facility at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, from 1942 to 1949. Before this time, African Americans were not permitted to enlist in the Marine Corps, the last branch of the U.S. military to integrate.

The Montford Point Marines played a critical role during World War II, serving with distinction in various units and participating in major battles, including the Pacific Theater campaigns such as Iwo Jima and Okinawa. Despite facing segregation and discrimination both in and out of uniform, these Marines demonstrated remarkable courage and dedication, paving the way for future generations of African Americans in the Marine Corps.

In recognition of their service and contributions, the Montford Point Marines were collectively awarded the Congressional Gold Medal in 2012, one of the highest civilian honors in the United States. This recognition was largely due to the tireless advocacy for national recognition of the courage and dedication of these men by the Philadelphia Chapter of the Montford Point Marines, whose efforts led to the unanimous passage of Bill H.R. 2447 by the 112th Congress in 2011.

Their legacy is a testament to the progress of racial integration in the U.S. military and the nation as a whole.

Family of Corporal Oliver Strand Sr. and Corporal Abram Holland receive their posthumous honors for service in the historic Montford Point Marines

Among the attendees was Gunnery Sergeant Roosevelt Farrow, one of the few surviving original Montford Point Marines and subject of the recent documentary The Gunnery: A Montford Point Marine. COL Jenkins emphasized the importance of honoring their legacy of Sergeant Farrow, Corporals Strand and Holland, and all of the 20,000 Montford Point Marines and noted how far we have come in recognizing the valor of these men.

“It is crucial that we remember the bravery and perseverance of men like Gunnery Sergeant Farrow and Corporals Strand and Holland,” said COL Jenkins. “Their service paved the way for a more inclusive and just military. We owe them a debt of gratitude, and their legacy will continue to inspire future generations.”

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Click to watch the short documentary: The Gunnery: A Montford Point Marine. 

The 23rd annual Run for Heroes will take place on Sunday, October 13, at 9:00 a.m. at the Springfield Township Municipal Complex, located at 50 Powell Road in Springfield.

This 5K walk/run is the largest fundraiser for the Delaware County Hero Scholarship Fund, which was established in 1977 by County Council to provide education scholarships for the children of police, firefighters, and emergency medical personnel who were killed in the line of duty.

Since its inception in 2000, the Run for Heroes has raised nearly $800,000, supporting dozens of students in pursuing their education in college or trade school.

The event offers a fun, family-friendly atmosphere and features a quiet course that winds through the Scenic Hills and Colonial Park section of Springfield Township. Over $1,200 in cash prizes will be awarded to top racers in individual and team categories ranging from ages 14 and under to 80+. Individual registrations are $35, and team/family registrations are $150, with discounts available for early registrations.

Learn more and register for the run here: https://delcorunforheroes.com.

We hope to see you there!

Delaware County is Hiring!

Delaware County is excited to host its first Career Fair of 2024 on Thursday, October 10, from 9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m., at the Delaware County Department of Emergency Services complex, located at 360 N. Middletown Rd., in Media, PA.

This Career Fair is more than just a hiring event; it's 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. Departments and offices include the Delaware County Department of Human Services, our Health Department, Human Resources, COSA, District Justice, the Office of Judicial Support, Delaware County Court Administration, the County Sheriff’s Department, the George W. Hill Correctional Facility, Park Police, Facilities, Parks & Recreation, Planning, 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. 

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: Public Health Nurse, Community Health Worker, Performance Management Specialist, General Clerk, Paralegal, Benefits Coordinator, Human Resources Specialist, Deputy Sheriff, Patrolman, Law Clerk, Correctional Officer, Custodian, Groundskeeper, Disease Investigation Specialist, Community Engagement Specialist, Support Service Coordinator, Court Information Officer and more.

Delaware County Fall Career Fair

Delaware County Emergency Services

Thursday, October 10 | 9:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

360 N. Middletown Rd., Media, PA 19063

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!

Delaware County Council encourages residents to explore the diverse arts scene in Delaware County. From the nation’s first community theater to professional performances, ballet companies, art galleries, history museums, and classes for all ages, Delco Arts Week offers a wide range of cultural experiences.

This year, Delaware County Arts Week begins on Saturday, September 21, and continues through Sunday, September 29. Over 60 events, including performances, exhibits, workshops, and concerts, will be held at more than 30 venues across the county.

Notable events include productions at local venues such as the Colonial Playhouse, Media Theatre, and Hedgerow Theatre, along with performances by the Rose Tree Pops Orchestra, Snoopy the Musical, and Bodies in Motion at the 20:20 Theatre in Lansdowne. Additional activities include art festivals, musical instrument petting zoos, and various hands-on workshops.

The Grand Reopening of the Delaware County Historical Society will take place on Thursday, September 26, at its new location, 9 W. Front Street in Media. An Open House will be held from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

The Delaware County Arts Consortium, established in 2009, consists of representatives from ten local organizations and the Greater Philadelphia Cultural Alliance. The consortium works to promote the economic vitality of the nonprofit arts and culture community and highlight the value of Delaware County’s cultural resources to the local community and beyond. Delco Arts Week was created to showcase the arts and engage residents with the many artistic venues and experiences available in the county.

For a complete list of events, visit the Delaware County Arts Consortium at DelcoArts.org, and explore and enjoy the diverse cultural offerings that Delaware County has to offer.

Proven program helps Delaware County seniors stay on their feet

The Delaware County Office of Services for the Aging (COSA), in partnership with the Senior Community Services (SCS) and the Pennsylvania Department of Aging is offering A Matter of Balance, an award-winning program designed to manage falls and increase activity levels among seniors. 

Many older adults experience concerns about falling so they often restrict their activities. This free program emphasizes practical strategies to manage falls and views falls as controllable. 

This 8-week program beginning on October 3, will teach seniors how to set goals for increasing activity, learn ways to reduce fall risks at home, and develop exercises to increase strength and balance.  

The program is ideal for residents who have restricted activities because of falling concerns or have fallen in the past, and is designed to improve balance, flexibility, and strength.  

"Our goal is to empower seniors to take control of their mobility and safety," said Barb Nicolardi, Delaware County Director of COSA. "Falls are not an inevitable part of aging. With the right knowledge and exercises, seniors can stay active, and live life without the fear of falling."

A Matter of Balance will be held on Thursdays from October 3 through November 21, from 9:30- 11:30 a.m., at the Brookhaven Municipal Building, located at 2 Cambridge Road, in Brookhaven. 

For questions and to register, contact Senior Community Services by email at aalfieri@scs-delco.org or by phone (484) 496-2143.

Falls are preventable, and with the right strategies, you don’t have to limit your life. By learning how to manage your fall risks, you can stay active, independent, and enjoy a full life.

New Program offered in partnership with key county organizations during Suicide Awareness Month

In recognition of September as Suicide Awareness Month, the Delaware County Office of the Medical Examiner is launching a groundbreaking initiative aimed at enhancing the investigation of suicide cases and supporting prevention efforts.

This new program, which conducts psychological autopsies on all suicide cases investigated by the office, is developed in close partnership with the Delaware County Health Department, the Delaware County District Attorney's Office, and other key departments and civic organizations within the county.

The psychological autopsy is a systematic reconstructive mental state evaluation (RMSE) that delves into the period leading up to an individual's death. Its primary purpose is to determine the cause of death, distinguishing between accidental, suicidal, or other possible explanations.

"Launching this program during Suicide Awareness Month, and in collaboration with our partners, reinforces our collective commitment to understanding and preventing suicide in our community," said Lange, Administrator of the Delaware County Office of the Medical Examiner. "By working together with the Delaware County Health Department, the District Attorney's Office, law enforcement and other local organizations, we aim to gather the most comprehensive insights possible to inform strategies that can prevent future tragedies."

This initiative involves structured, in-depth interviews with those closely associated with the deceased, including friends, family members, and healthcare providers. In addition to interviews, the program will analyze pertinent documents such as bio-psycho-social assessments, forensic evidence, and all available medical and mental health records. These efforts are designed to create a detailed psychological profile of the deceased, offering critical insights into their mental state prior to death.

The findings from these psychological autopsies are expected to play a significant role not only in understanding the factors that lead to suicide but also in identifying patterns that could be instrumental in prevention and policy development. The collaboration with various county departments and organizations underscores a united approach to addressing this pressing public health issue.

"As we observe Suicide Awareness Month, it is essential to emphasize the importance of understanding the circumstances surrounding these deaths," Lange added. "This program, and our partnerships, represent a significant step forward in our efforts to combat suicide and promote mental health awareness across Delaware County."

The Delaware County Office of the Medical Examiner encourages community members and organizations to engage in Suicide Awareness Month activities by discussing mental health, supporting those in need, and promoting available resources for suicide prevention.

For more information about the psychological autopsy program or to schedule an interview, please contact the Delaware County Office of the Medical Examiner’s Bereavement Counselor, Megan Vosheski, at (610) 891-5953.

Delaware County Elections continues preparations for the Nov. 5, 2024 General Election.

Final polling site assignments, ballot preparations, and equipment testing are proceeding, and staff and volunteer training activities are well under way in anticipation of increased voter requests for services and information during the final weeks before Election Day.

U.S. citizens who are not yet registered to vote or who need to update their registration address or name have until Monday, October 21, to register for the upcoming Nov. 5, 2024 General Election. Those already registered at their current address do not need to take further action.

In order to vote in Delaware County, voters must be a U.S. citizen and live at their registration address at least 30 days before the election and must be 18 years of age or older on or before Election Day. Voter registration forms may be submitted on-line, in-person, or by mail.

The last day to request a mail/absentee ballot is Tues., Oct. 29, though voters are urged to submit their mail/absentee ballot application earlier.

Mail/absentee ballots are expected to be mailed by Delaware County Elections in early October.

Delaware County residents may visit DelcoPA.Gov/Vote for election news, voter registration forms, mail/absentee ballot applications, poll worker staff forms, or may call the Delaware County Election Hotline at (610) 891-VOTE (8683).

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