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The Delaware County Weekly
Bringing Delco news and information directly to our residents!
—— September 27, 2024 (140th edition) ——
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Delaware County to Host Delco Hope: Recovering Together, the Inaugural Recovery Month Celebration | |
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The Delaware County Department of Human Services’ Office of Drug and Alcohol is excited to invite residents to celebrate recovery at Delco Hope: Recovering Together, the first of what will become an annual event celebrating National Recovery Month in Delaware County. The event will take place on Saturday, September 28, 2024, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Delaware County Community College's Main Campus, located at 901 Media Line Road in Media.
This family-friendly event is dedicated to celebrating and supporting Delaware County's recovery community, including individuals in recovery, their families, and allies. Attendees can explore health and wellness vendor tables, listen to inspiring recovery speakers, and discover recovery-owned businesses. The event will also feature an Art of Recovery Exhibition, showcasing creative works that highlight the transformative power of recovery, along with local food trucks offering a selection of food and beverages.
This free event is funded by the Delaware County Department of Human Services, Office of Drug and Alcohol, and is part of the County’s broader initiative to promote health, wellness, and recovery within the community.
MVP Recovery will also be on hand to give an overview of their Warm Hand Off (WHO) and STARR programs. The mission of MVP’s programs is to ensure that individuals in Delaware County receive timely and effective support when facing substance abuse or mental health challenges. Through early intervention, coordination, access to care and follow up individuals receive prompt access to appropriate treatment, counseling, and support services tailored to their needs.
Additionally, Rags 2 Riches Animal Rescue will be on-site hosting dog adoptions and a dog food drive, providing an opportunity for attendees to support animal rescue efforts.
Parking is free. For more information, please contact the Office of Drug and Alcohol’s Joelle Williams at williamsjk@delcohsa.org or by phone at (267) 386-6908.
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Delaware County’s Office of Sustainability Partners with Non-Profit Solarize Delco to Launch Solar Tours | Celebrate the U.S. Department of Energy’s National Clean Energy Action Month by Joining the Delco Solar Tour! | |
Delaware County’s Office of Sustainability, tasked with making the County more sustainable and resilient to the effects of climate change, and Solarize Delco, a local non-profit dedicated to promoting solar adoption and educating residents about the advantages of solar energy, are excited to announce the Delco Solar Tour, running from Monday, October 7 through Sunday, October 13.
This initiative enables Delaware County residents to explore solar energy solutions right here in Delaware County by visiting solar installations in their own communities.
Hosted by the Delaware County Office of Sustainability and Solarize Delco, these tours provide a unique opportunity for residents, schools, and municipalities to learn about the benefits of generating their own power through solar energy.
Whether you’re considering solar for your home, school, or community, these tours offer a chance to see solar installations up close and speak directly with homeowners, educators, and municipal leaders who have already made the transition. The tours are designed to demystify the process of going solar, offering firsthand insights into the costs, benefits, and practicalities of adopting solar energy.
“The Delco Solar Tour will not only highlight community members who are already harnessing free energy from the sun, but it will also promote real conversations among neighbors to inspire confidence and empower others to make the switch to solar,” said Interim Sustainability Director Rebecca Yurkovich.
The Delco Solar Tour includes visits to homes, schools, and municipal buildings that have successfully integrated solar technology to:
- Drastically reduce monthly energy bills
- Decrease harmful carbon emissions
- Take advantage of significant tax credits and cash incentives
- Enhance property values
Participants will have the opportunity to see a variety of solar installations in action, learn about different system types, and understand how solar energy can be adapted to various building styles and needs. These tours provide an invaluable educational experience, allowing attendees to ask questions directly to solar adopters about their experiences, from installation to energy savings.
“Solar energy is a key component of our commitment to a sustainable future,” said Delaware County Council Member Elaine Paul Schaefer. “These tours are a fantastic way for residents to see how solar power can benefit their homes and communities, and to understand how they can be part of the clean energy movement.”
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Nationally, Solar Tours have attracted over 150,000 attendees, offering an unparalleled look at the real-world application of solar energy. They serve as a platform for community members to learn about the tangible benefits of solar power, including financial savings, energy independence, and environmental impact. The Delco Solar Tour aims to bring that experience to Delaware County, fostering a community dialogue around clean energy and sustainability.
The tours are free and open to all, with options to attend in-person events between October 6 and October 13, 2024, or participate in a virtual solar tour. This initiative is not just about viewing solar panels; it’s about understanding the potential of renewable energy to transform our communities and reduce our carbon footprint.
For a complete list of tour locations and dates, visit DelcoPA.gov/Sustainability or SolarizeDelco.org. To learn more about the tours, explore how to go solar, watch educational videos, or sign up for a consultation with your solarized neighbors, email SolarizeDelco@gmail.com.
Join us and be part of the clean energy revolution right here in Delaware County!
| Check out this short video about Solarize Delco! | |
Delaware County Libraries Unveils New Website | |
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Delaware County Libraries is excited to announce the launch of its newly redesigned website, aimed at delivering a more user-friendly experience, modern design, and enhanced functionality.
The redesigned site, www.delcolibraries.org, features a clean, modern design, mobile responsiveness, and enhanced accessibility features. With a focus on usability, the new design ensures that visitors can easily access the information they need, whether they are looking for a resource in the Digital Library, museum passes, or the location of their nearest library.
Some of the key highlights of the redesigned website include:
- Enhanced Navigation: Simplified site structure to make it easier for visitors to find exactly what they need.
- Mobile-Friendly Design: Optimized for use across all devices, ensuring a seamless experience on smartphones, tablets, and desktops.
- Improved Accessibility: The new design meets the latest web accessibility standards to ensure all visitors can fully engage with the site.
“We are thrilled to launch our new website, which will act as an online branch that brings our most popular items front and center,” said Anny Laepple, Director of Delaware County Libraries. “The redesigned platform allows for a more engaging experience while providing quick and easy access to information and resources.”
Delaware County Libraries is an agency of county government that provides support services for 26 independent member libraries. For more information about Delaware County Libraries and to explore the new website, please visit www.delcolibraries.org.
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Library Board Vacancies
Reminder! Delaware County is currently looking to fill two vacancies on the Delaware County Library Board.
The Delaware County Library Board (DCLB) is the governing body for the Delaware County Library System which consists of the 26 community libraries in Delaware County, and is the formal, policy-setting group that exists to set goals and objectives that will optimize library service to the citizens of Delaware County through cooperative efforts.
For more information, as well as a full list of board vacancies, board descriptions, and application instructions, please visit DelcoPA.Gov/Board-Vacancies. Applications for the Library Board openings will be accepted through 4:30 p.m. on Friday, October 11.
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Fair Acres to Hold Annual Fall Fest on October 10 | |
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The Fair Acres Geriatric Center will hold its Fall Fest on Thursday, October 10, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., on its Lima campus.
The Fall Fest is a day of fun, food, and socialization for the residents, their families, community, friends, and staff, and helps raise funds for the Residents' Special Aid and Entertainment Fund. This fund is controlled and administered by the residents and is used to enrich their lives by financing trips, entertainment, ice cream socials, specialized clubs, bingo prizes, sporting events, parties, and more.
The Fair Acres Fall Fest will feature:
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Mini Flea Market and Craft Vendors. Featuring jewelry, household goods, crafts, and other treasures for sale.
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Food Trucks. Tons of great food, featuring Delco Steaks, Dos Gringos, Doris’s Donuts, Mister Softee, a roving hot dog cart and From the Boot on the Move, and more.
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Clothing Drive. Attendees are welcome to bring clothing, accessories, shoes, and linens (all items should be tied in plastic bags). If you are cleaning out your closets, please consider bagging up your items and bringing them to the Fall Fest in tied plastic kitchen trash bags. We have a company that will pay us by the pound for everything we collect, and 100% of those proceeds will go to the residents' fund.
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Job Fair. Fair Acres is looking to hire high-performing, caring, and qualified individuals for several open positions. Positions include RNs & LPNs (FT and per diem), Nursing Supervisors, CNAs (FT, starting at $21.05/hour), Dieticians (no weekends, flexible schedule), and Food Service Workers. Positions offer great benefits, competitive pay, paid vacation and holidays, tuition reimbursement, and provide an opportunity to make a positive impact on the lives of our residents, who thrive with high-quality care, companionship, and support.
For more information, contact Sue Harrar, Director of Therapeutic Activities/Volunteer Services at (610) 891-5770 or harrars@fairacres.org.
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Fall Fest Details
Date and Time: Thursday, October 10, 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Location: Fair Acres Geriatric Center, 340 N. Middletown Rd., Lima, PA 19037
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Delaware County Health Department to Hold Free Drive-Thru Influenza Clinic Opportunity | |
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The Delaware County Health Department (DCHD) will hold a free drive-thru influenza (flu) clinic to provide convenient access to flu vaccinations.
This event is open to everyone in Delaware County ages 3 and up.
Please note that DCHD will only be offering Fluarix 2024/2025 formula influenza vaccine in our flu clinics; high-dose flu vaccines for residents 65 and older will not be available.
Residents are asked to wear short sleeves to ensure flu shots can be administered easily.
In the event of inclement weather, please be aware that drive-thru flu clinics may be canceled.
When: Tuesday, October 1, 2024, 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Where: Tinicum Fire Company, 99 Wanamaker Ave, Essington, PA 19029
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Standing DCHD Immunization Clinics
DCHD continues to provide a variety of vaccinations (including flu and COVID-19 vaccines) to underinsured and uninsured residents at our Wellness Center standing clinics. We encourage residents to call our Wellness Line at (484) 276-2100 to check for eligibility and schedule appointments.
Delaware County Wellness Center at Chester
Where:151 W. 5th Street Chester, PA, 19013
When: Select Mondays every month, 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
Delaware County Wellness Center at Yeadon
Where: 125 Chester Avenue Yeadon, PA, 19050
When: Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays, 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
After Hours Appointment Availability on Select Wednesdays and Saturdays at select times of the year. For more information or questions regarding any of DCHD’s clinics, please contact the Delaware County Health Department Wellness Line at (484) 276 – 2100 or by email at DelcoWellness@co.delaware.pa.us.
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Reminder: Check Out the New 'Test & Go' Kiosks | |
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The Delaware County Health Department celebrated the launch of three "Test and Go" health kiosks last week, in Chester, Media, and Yeadon. 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.
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.
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'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.
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Reminder! Delaware County to Hold Fall Career Fair on Thurs, Oct. 10 in Media | |
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Delaware County is holding a Fall Career Fair 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.
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. 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.
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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
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Delaware County Chair Dr. Monica Taylor Joins Dunwoody for Centennial Celebration | |
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Delaware County Council Chair Dr. Monica Taylor was honored to join elected officials, residents, and staff from Dunwoody Village and Dunwoody Home at a celebratory gala marking the community’s 100th anniversary.
Dunwoody Village, located in Newtown Square, is a well-regarding retirement community that ensures the health, wellness, and peace of mind for the Delaware County residents who call this community home. Established as one of the area’s first continuing care retirement communities (CCRCs), Dunwoody has remained a pillar of support and compassion for a century, earning the coveted five-star quality rating from CMS each year since 2010.
From its humble beginnings with just 50 residents in 1924, Dunwoody has grown to accommodate over 400 residents, including many second-generation community members. The continued commitment to Mr. Dunwoody’s ideals and the excellent reputation built over the years make Dunwoody a cherished home for seniors in Delaware County.
Congratulations to Dunwoody Village on 100 years of exceptional service and commitment to the community!
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Congratulations to Dunwoody on its 100th anniversary, and thank you to the residents for a wonderful evening! |
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Delaware County Council Presents Resolution Declaring September 21 - September 29 to be Delco Arts Week | |
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Delaware County Council Chair Dr. Monica Taylor, Council Member Christine Reuther, County Controller Joanne Phillips, and Rep. Heather Boyd joined members of the Delaware County Arts Consortium, Visit Delco PA, and the Foundation for Delaware County on State Street in Media on Wednesday to present a resolution proclaiming September 21–29 as Delco Arts Week.
Throughout this vibrant week, more than 60 performances, exhibits, workshops, concerts, tours, and other events are taking place at over 30 venues across Delaware County.
Highlights from the final weekend of Delco Arts Week will include a VIP film screening of Black-Faced Lye at the Booker T. Washington Community Center in Chester, the opening reception for Life, Death, and the Fantastic: The Art of Michael Kelly & Joe Martin at Aston Mills Arts, a performance of The Drowsy Chaperone at the Players Club of Swarthmore, a ‘Nature Sketch & Stroll’ at the Brandywine Museum of Art, an Eric Carle Collage Art activity for kids at Media Upper Providence Free Library, the Colonial Pennsylvania Farmstead Fall Fest in Newtown Square, the Jazz & Art in the Park Festival in Sharon Hill, the Kelly Center Bluegrass Jam in Havertown, and many more!
For a complete list of events, visit the Delco Arts Week website at delcoarts.org.
Delco Arts Week was created by the Delaware County Arts Consortium to showcase the arts in Delaware County. The Consortium, which includes representatives from ten different Delaware County organizations and the Greater Philadelphia Cultural Alliance, aims to enhance the economic vitality of the nonprofit arts and culture community and to promote the value of Delaware County’s cultural resources to the local community and beyond.
County Council extends its gratitude to everyone involved in making Delco Arts Week a success and encourages all residents to join in the celebration during the final weekend. We hope residents continue to explore and support the vibrant arts community here in Delaware County throughout the year.
|  | Delaware County Chair Dr. Monica Taylor and Council Member Christine Reuther are joined by Rep. Heather Boyd and County Controller Joanne Phillips. | | | | |
