The Delaware County Weekly

Bringing Delco news and information directly to our residents!

—— April 26, 2024 (118th edition) ——

Delaware County Election Department's April 23, 2024 Primary Election Update

Delaware County Council extends its gratitude to the thousands of residents and numerous organizations who played pivotal roles in the success of the Primary Election held on April 23. Special recognition goes to the more than 2,000 dedicated poll workers who served on Election Day.

Additionally, Council acknowledges the tireless efforts of hundreds of Election Department workers and other County staff, plus paid student interns from Neumann University, who not only worked long hours on Election Day itself but continue to be instrumental in preparing polling stations, managing drop boxes, completing post-election administrative processes, including the processing of precinct returns and mail/absentee ballots and military and overseas ballots, and other preparations for certification of election.

23% Primary Turnout

The unofficial turnout for the Primary Election of slightly more than 92,000 Delaware County voters was low at approximately 23% but tracked with turnouts across the Commonwealth when Democratic and Republican nominations for top offices—including the Presidency, Senate, and House of Representatives—were largely uncontested. 

“We expected a relatively low turnout, which is typical for primary elections where the top contests are not competitive," said Director of Elections James P. Allen. "Even so, we anticipate strong turnouts this fall. The dedication and attention to detail by our poll workers and staff over this and other recent elections, have helped us improve processes and be more prepared for the fall.”

e-Pollbooks A Success

During the Nov. 7, 2023 Municipal Election, Delaware County introduced electronic poll books or “e-pollbooks” to 39% of the County’s 428 precincts. This equipment allows for easier check-ins, consistent voter guidance, and the ability by poll workers to quickly re-direct voters who arrive in the wrong polling place—a common issue for new voters, voters new to the area, voters whose precincts moved since the last election, or voters who vote at sites that house three to six precincts.

“The phased adoption of e-pollbooks in the fall, and how throughout the County has been a success, and this was only possible through the cooperation and thoughtful planning by a variety of teams, starting with our poll-worker coordination and training team and IT liaison, and extending to staff in the Bureau of Elections, Voter Registration, and our Voting Machine Warehouse,” said Director Allen.

Mail/Absentee, In-Person, Provisional, and Military/Overseas Ballots

More than 92% of results for mail/absentee and in-person voting were reported by 11:00 p.m. on Election Night. Delaware County completed the unofficial reporting of all but 2 precincts from Election Day voting about 11:30 p.m. Election Night, and all mail/absentee ballots about 2:00 a.m. Election Night. By law, a separate category of military/overseas ballots can arrive and be eligible to count through Tuesday, April 30.

Additionally, provisional ballots have been reviewed for eligibility to be added to the counts on or about May 1. All eligible military/overseas and provisional ballots will be processed, regardless of how close contests are, with the goal of certifying the election in early May.

Retabulation Team Sworn In

In accordance with Pennsylvania State Law, Delaware County Elections’ retabulation team was sworn in Friday to begin the review of precinct records to identify accuracies and report any obvious discrepancies that might be found. This process includes review of the results tapes, a 2% recount of precincts, and a comparison of ballots cast versus ballots supplied and ballots returned unused. 

The unofficial totals exclude small numbers of mail-in ballots that were flawed, based on the return envelopes being: undated or improperly dated; unsigned; unsealed; or the ballot not placed in the “secrecy envelope” before being submitted in the larger “Ballot Return Envelope.”

Special Thanks to Ridley Township Poll Workers

“We also want to salute the poll workers in the teams at Ridley Township 3-1 and 3-2 at the Ridley Community Center, where they followed the contingency plans to keep voting operational through an hour-long power outage,” Allen said. “These two teams are just two examples of so many groups who work together across the county to ensure access to the electoral franchise.”

The County thanks the more than 2,000 poll workers who staffed and managed the 428 Delaware County precincts on Election Day as well as Election Department staff and seasonal and temp workers. Special thanks also go to partners in County’s IT Department and Emergency Services, the County’s Park Police, the Copy Center, the County’s Facilities team, the Controller’s Office and other divisions whose teams pitched in on Election Day.

Election Results and Final State Certification

Voters are reminded that all vote totals posted on the Delaware County Election Results page, located at DelcoPA.Gov/Results, remain unofficial until the certification process is complete, and the vote totals are submitted to the PA Department of State. The certification deadline for the April 23, 2024 Primary Election is Monday, May 13.

Voters with election-related questions may call the Delaware County Election Hotline at (610) 891-VOTE or visit the Delaware County election website — Delco Votes! — at DelcoPA.Gov/Vote.

Don't Miss it: Election Campaign Sign Recycling Drop Off Event Scheduled for April 27 at Rose Tree Park

The Delaware County Office of Sustainability, in partnership with Delaware County Council, the Delaware County Solid Waste Authority, and the Delaware County Bureau of Elections will be holding an Election Campaign Sign Recycling Drop Off on Saturday, April 27 at Rose Tree Park in Media.

Delaware County residents, candidates and committees are encouraged to collect their yard signs and signs from public areas and take advantage of the free recycling event that eliminates tons of recyclable materials from entering the waste stream. During the last three election cycles, Delaware County has diverted thousands of pounds of plastic and metal from the waste stream. 

“The Office of Sustainability is happy to continue offering Campaign Sign Recycling for the residents of Delaware County,” said Delaware County Office of Sustainability’s Rebecca Yurkovich. “Our hope is that this event becomes a part of the community’s annual election routine. Recycling efforts such as this serve to protect our environment and Keep Delco Beautiful.”

All campaign signs (plastic-coated, cardboard, and vinyl signs) and accompanying metal stands will be accepted free-of-charge, and all collected materials will be recycled. Non-election signs, such as those provided by roofers, landscapers, and tree maintenance companies to advertise their services after completion of a job are also eligible to be recycled.

Please note that signs do NOT need to be dismantled for collection. 

Election Sign Recycling Drop Off

Saturday, April 27: 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

Rose Tree Park

1671 N. Providence Road

Media, PA 19063 | Map

We hope to see you there. Please spread the word! 

A limited number of tickets still remain for the 3rd Annual Delaware County Sustainability Conference, scheduled for Thursday, May 30, at Widener University. Registration for this free event closes Monday, April 29 at 4:30 p.m.

Hosted by the Delaware County Office of Sustainability, the Sustainability Conference provides a unique opportunity for local and regional sustainability experts, professionals, and everyday sustainability heroes to connect, inspire, and inform.

With an expected turnout of over 300 attendees and participation from more than 25 organizations, the event promises a day full of insightful presentations, valuable networking, and collaborative opportunities. Themed "Sustainability in Action," the conference will provide attendees with practical tools to enhance sustainability and resilience in our changing climate.

This year, the Office of Sustainability is excited to introduce interactive breakout sessions, offering deeper engagement on specific topics and direct interactions with our expert presenters.

How to Register

Residents can secure a free ticket at DelcoPA.Gov/SustainDelco2024. 

In alignment with our sustainability goals, the conference will be transit accessible, zero waste, and will offer vegan lunch options highlighting our commitment to minimizing our environmental impact. 

We hope to see you there! 

During the April 17, 2024, Regular County Council Public Meeting, Health Department Director Melissa Lyon celebrated the second anniversary of the Delaware County Health Department (DCHD) with an update on its progress and accomplishments since the department’s inception on April 2, 2022.

Director Lyon highlighted several key achievements: the completion of construction and remodeling of three DCHD buildings, the deployment of over 30 electric vehicles (EVs) for staff use, and the successful recruitment of a full complement of staff. Financially, DCHD is operating within its five-year budget, having effectively leveraged State Aid Applications (Act 315 and Act 12) and various state and federal grants, thereby reducing the county's financial contributions by 35% compared to the first year.

A broad array of health programs and services that have been implemented or enhanced over the past two years was also reviewed. These include retail food safety inspections, mosquito-borne disease control, public health nuisance investigations, tuberculosis management, specialized sexually transmitted infection (STI) clinics, HIV services, maternal and child health programs, vaccines for children, chronic disease prevention, lead poisoning prevention efforts, and public health emergency preparedness.

Other recent accomplishments include the initiation of a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion review to identify and address potential gaps and biases in department policies, and revisions to DCHD’s Vision (“To ensure health promotion, disease prevention, and health protection for all Delaware County residents,” and Mission (“To prevent injury, illness, disease, and premature death through the promotion of healthy behaviors, protection of the environment, and prevention of the spread of disease and illness.”) that was undertaken with guidance from the Delaware County Board of Health.

For more information about DCHD, visit DelcoPA.Gov/Health.

During the presentation before Council, Director Lyon also highlighted the PBS special, 'The Invisible Shield,' a four-part series that explores the evolution of public health and the vital role of organizations like DCHD in safeguarding community health.

To explore the evolution of modern public health agencies and their role in society, watch 'The Invisible Shield' on PBS at www.pbs.org/show/the-invisible-shield.

Click to watch 'The Invisible Shield' on PBS

Free ‘Celebrate Age Senior Living Expo’ to be Held May 3 at Harrah’s Casino!

Delaware County Council and the Delaware County Office of Services for the Aging (COSA) is hosting the “Celebrate Age Senior Living Expo” at Harrah’s Philadelphia Casino & Racetrack in Chester on Friday, May 3, from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., as part of the County’s many celebrations of Older Americans Month. The community is welcome to attend this free event.

The Senior Living Expo serves as an unofficial kick off to Older Americans Month, observed each May, which celebrates the contributions of older adults across the U.S. This annual observance recognizes their achievements and promotes awareness of issues facing the elderly, encouraging community activities to honor their contributions to society and support their health and well-being.

The Senior Living Expo will feature DJ music, prizes, raffles, and refreshments, with vendors ranging from home care agencies and health care systems to County agencies, attorneys, and more. Local senior centers will be on hand to share information about their activities and programs. 

Guests to the Senior Living Expo will be able to “Ask a Pharmacist” from PerformRx questions regarding medications. Staff from offices of Senator Tim Kearney and Senator John Kane will be on hand to provide information and resources of interest to seniors, including assistance with obtaining/renewing SEPTA Senior Fare Cards, which enable senior citizens age 65 and older to ride free on all Transit Routes and Regional Rail in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. 

Seniors interested in obtaining a Senior Fare Card must bring proof of age.

In addition, COSA and Parks and Recreation Department will host a Delaware County Senior Games booth, which will feature Cornhole (a popular Senior Games sporting event) and allow interested Delaware County seniors (ages 50 and older) to register for the 2024 Senior Games to be held from June 10-21, 2024.   

For more information about the Senior Living Expo, contact Barbara Nicolardi at (610) 490-1524, or visit COSA's Senior Living Expo site.

Centenarian Luncheon and the Delaware County Senior Games

In addition to the Expo, Delaware County and will celebrate Older Americans Month with its the Centenarian Luncheon, hosted by COSA, on May 16, 2024 at the Drexelbrook Banquet Center. Delaware County residents turning 100 or older in 2024 are invited to attend. 

For more information on the Centenarian Luncheon, contact Debbie Hedgepeth at (610) 872-1406. 

Seniors are also invited to participate in this year’s Delaware County Senior Games, held June 10-21, in venues across the County. This popular Olympic-style competition offers senior athletes and active older residents a chance to display their athletic prowess and compete for medals in various sporting events.

Registration is required, and is open through May 31.

For more information or to register, residents can call the Parks and Recreation Department at (610) 891-4663 or COSA at (610) 490-1300, or visit COSA’s Senior Games website at DelcoSeniorGames.Org.

Attendees at the 2023 Senior Living Expo

Delaware County Celebrates Earth Day with Events in Marple, Brookhaven, Chester, Parkside, and Upper Darby

Delaware County was proud to celebrate Earth Day with events held across the county.

On Friday, April 20, the Delaware County Health Department (DCHD) kicked off the County’s efforts with three different park clean up events, billed by DCHD as its “Clean the Green” initiative that is also part of the DCHD’s second-year anniversary celebration and gift to the community. 

DCHD staff and park personnel gathered at Naylors Run Park in Upper Darby, the Upland Park-Redwood Senior Center in Brookhaven, and the Wesley R. Coale Veterans Memorial Park in Parkside to clean up and beautify the community parks into vibrant spaces. DCHD picked up trash and litter, painted playground equipment, planted shrubs, and more.

“I’m incredibly proud of what the Delaware County Health Department is capable of accomplishing,” said DCHD Director Melissa Lyon. “Today’s event demonstrated our commitment to enhancing community health and well-being and was an enjoyable effort for all involved.”

On Saturday, April 20, Delaware County Council Chair Dr. Monica Taylor and Council Member Christine Reuther, Delaware County Register of Wills Vincent Rongione, County Executive Director Barbara O’Malley, and Chester City Mayor Stefan Roots joined the Chester Tree Tenders, members of the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society, and nearly 40 volunteers at William Penn and Ethel Waters Parks in Chester City for a Tree Planting and Park Clean Up organized by the Delaware County Office of Sustainability.

Over 20 bags of trash were collected, and a dozen trees, including native Magnolia, Red Buds, and Elms donated by the Delaware County Parks and Recreation Department and the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society, were planted.

On Monday, April 22, Delaware County Council member Elaine Paul Schaefer and State Senator Tim Kearney joined the Delaware County Parks and Recreation team, led by Director Marc Manfre, and nearly two dozen volunteers at the newly-named Delco Woods in Broomall for a collaborative environmental program hosted by the Penn State Extension Master Watershed Stewards, Penn State Extension Master Gardeners, and the Delaware County Conservation District. The event focused on addressing soil erosion issues and the health of streams and plant life around the park.  

Thank you to all the volunteers and to the employees from the Delaware County Office of Sustainability, the Parks and Recreation the Data and Mapping Innovation team, the County’s Human Resources Department, the Delaware County Public Defenders’ Office, and the Delaware County Planning Department, the Penn State Extension, the Chester Shade Tree Commission, the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society, as well as the members of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority for spending your Saturday beautifying the park!  

In honor of National Donate Life Month, the Delaware County Office of the Medical Examiner (OME), in partnership with the Gift of Life Donor Program, held a Flag Raising Ceremony on April 25 at its Fair Acres Campus location as part of a nationwide effort to encourage organ and tissue donation and to celebrate those who have saved lives through the gift of donation. 

During the ceremony, OME Administrator Jeffrey Lange emphasized the importance of the transformative partnership that has been developed between the Delaware County Office of the Medical Examiner and Gift of Life. “Our collaboration represents a powerful alliance dedicated to saving lives and honoring legacies through organ and tissue donation,” said Lange.  

During the ceremony, Rick Hasz, President and CEO of the Gift of Life Donor Program and a donor recipient, spoke passionately about organ donation and how it brings hope and new beginnings to not just the recipients but their families as well. “This partnership is more than just numbers it exemplifies how working together towards a common goal can have a profound impact,” said Hasz.  

For their demonstration of integrity, knowledge, commitment, compassion, and advocacy in working with organ donors and their families, Dr. Albert Chu, Delaware County Chief Medical Examiner and Carlita Ferguson, OME Senior Forensic Investigator, were awarded commemorative Gift of Life Challenge Coins.  

Since 2004, the Gift of Life Donor Program has been a beacon of hope and healing, serving over 11.3 million people across the eastern half of Pennsylvania, southern New Jersey, and Delaware. Renowned for leading the nation in the number of organ donors, the organization facilitates the generous acts of donating to individuals and families, ensuring that those in need receive the gift of life through transplantation.

It underscores the Delaware County Office of the Medical Examiner's commitment to honoring the wishes of decedents and their families in the organ donation process. The event aims to raise awareness about the importance of being a donor and showcases the life-enhancing benefits of transplantation, supported by the efforts of the Gift of Life Donor Program—the largest organ procurement organization in the U.S.

“We are committed to fostering a supportive environment where the decision to donate is met with gratitude and respect, reflecting the selflessness of the act,” said Lange, “It's about the stories, the families, and the lives touched by each decision to donate.”

Check out the Gift of Life Donor Program website.

Pictured, left to right: Gweneth O’ Shaughnessy, Vice President, Hospital Services, Gift of Life Donor Program, Albert Chu, MD., Chief Medical Examiner, Delaware County Office of the Medical Examiner, Rick Hasz, President & CEO, Gift of Life Donor Program, Carlita Ferguson, Forensic Investigator, Delaware County Office of the Medical Examiner, and Leif Henry, BA, Medical Examiner/Coroner Liaison, Gift of Life Donor Program 

The Heritage Commission of Delaware County is hosting the 46th Annual Heritage Commission Preservation Awards on Sunday, May 5, at the Redwood Community Center in Upland Park. Members of the public are invited to the ceremony which starts at 1:00 p.m.

The Heritage Commission traditionally sponsors the Annual Preservation Awards each May during National Preservation Month. Awards are bestowed to those who have contributed to retaining and maintaining our County’s heritage through a construction project, a special program or project, a planning effort, or a publication. 

Additional awards are granted to an individual and young person who has contributed significantly to our heritage. The Leedom B. Morrison Award recognizes a construction or special project in Chester City. The legacy award recognizes a long-term business in a historic resource.

This year, seven individuals and organizations are being recognized for their outstanding contributions to historic preservation in Delaware County in 2024. 

• A. Richard Paul Lifetime Achievement Award: Angela Hewett and Robert Seeley for their lifelong contributions to Delaware County history.
• Residential Rehabilitation Site Preservation: Robert and Robin Little for preserving the Ellis P. Yarnall House in Concord Township; Suzanne and Bob Redfern and the Middletown Township Historical Society for rehabilitating the Middletown Preparative Meeting and Burial Ground.
• Publication Award: "The Battle of the Brandywine" video by Dr. Patricia Robinson-Linder.
• Leedom B. Morrison Award for a Project: "The Missing Piece: Rediscovering the Underground Railroad in Chester, PA" by Yusef Miller and Twyla Simpkins.
• Legacy Award: Delaware County Supply in Boothwyn, marking its 100th anniversary.

The Certificates of Award will be presented by Delaware County Council during the ceremony. Reading the citations for the awards will be Barbara Marinelli, Chair of the Heritage Commission. 

Registration is required to attend. Please contact Kate Clifford at (610) 891-5223 or by email at DelawareCountyHeritage@co.delaware.pa.us to register and for event details.

About the Heritage Commission of Delaware County

The Heritage Commission of Delaware County, an advisory body to County Council on local historical and cultural matters, has been recognizing worthy projects in the community since 1978. The Heritage Commission would like to thank local municipalities, historical societies, and individuals from the community who are dedicated to preserving and honoring the historic sites throughout our County. More info on the Heritage Commission website.

Delaware County Council congratulates the more than 150 Delaware County employees who participated in Wednesday's National Walk @ Lunch Day during their lunch hour break.

Employees from over 40 offices, departments, agencies, bureaus, and courts laced up their sneakers at eight locations, including the Delaware County Courthouse and Government Center in Media, Parks and Recreation's Rose Tree Park headquarters, the County's Fair Acres Campus, the County's Emergency Services Center in Lima, the Health Department's Wellness Centers in Chester and Yeadon, the Baldwin Towers Health Department and COSA HQ in Eddystone, the 2 West Baltimore Building in Media, and outside the County's Human Services' offices in Upper Darby.

The County team took advantage of the perfect Spring weather, walking an average of over a mile. Many expressed interest in making the casual lunchtime walk an ongoing activity to incorporate exercise and fresh air into their daily routine.

National Walk @ Lunch Day encourages people to take a walk during their lunch break for health and wellness. Originating in 2007, it aims to combat sedentary lifestyles and promote physical activity. Participants walk for at least 30 minutes, improving cardiovascular health and reducing stress. It fosters a culture of movement in the workplace, enhancing productivity, and overall well-being.

Thanks to Executive Director Barbara O'Malley for spearheading the effort. Together, we are forging a healthier, happier future for Delaware County, one small step at a time!

“If you are in a bad mood, go for a walk. If you are still in a bad mood, go for another walk.” –Hippocrates

PA CareerLink® Delaware County, in collaboration with the Delaware County Workforce Development Board, is excited to host a Youth Job Fair aimed at high school and college-aged individuals in Delaware County. 

Local employers are invited to register and participate, and job seekers, especially those just starting their careers, are encouraged to attend this valuable networking event. The Youth Job Fair provides an excellent opportunity for employers to fill various roles, including full-time, part-time, seasonal positions, as well as internships and apprenticeships. For job seekers, it's a chance to land their first job or to explore exciting new career opportunities.

Registration for employers is free, and all participating employers will be provided with a complimentary table and chairs.

Event Details:

Date: Tuesday, May 7

Time: 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Location: Springfield YMCA, 194 Sproul Rd., Springfield, PA

Participating Employers

The current lineup of participating employers includes the following businesses: All About Children Childcare Center, Commonwealth of PA, Community Action Agency of Delaware County, Community Integrated Services, Community YMCA of Eastern Delaware County, CritiCare Home Health and Nursing Services, Deery Enterprises LLC, Delaware County Intermediate Unit, Dunwoody Village, ESS, Harrah's Philadelphia Casino & Racetrack, Lima Estates, My Independence at HOME, Oliver Heating & Cooling, Senior Helpers, So Love Autistic Center, US Medical Staffing Inc., and YesCare — and more companies are being added daily.

Guidance for Job Seekers

Come prepared with copies of your resume, as on-site interviews and potential same day hiring decisions are anticipated for qualified candidates. We will also have workshops onsite and a resource table to assist with resumes, interviewing, job applications as well as information on obtaining a PA Minor Work Permit and registering for PA CareerLink®.

Employer Registration

Reserve your space today! Contact Claudia Rodriguez at CRodriguez@edsi.com or complete the registration form, available at DelcoPA.Gov/YouthJobFair to secure your participation.

The Foundation for Delaware County is looking for volunteers!

Delaware County Council reminds residents that the inaugural Delco Gives Day—a 24-hour day of giving and county-wide celebration of generosity, unity, and shared purpose hosted by The Foundation for Delaware County— will be held May 8 through May 9, 2024 (7:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.), providing Delaware County residents a unique opportunity to support local nonprofits that tirelessly serve our community and make a difference in the lives of the people in our county.

Delco Gives Day officially kicks off on May 8 at Dining Under the Stars, in Media, PA, from 6:00 - 8:00 p.m., with performances, live bands, and an appearance from Cecily Tynan of 6ABC. Chester City Hall will also help kick off Delco Gives Day with a Block Party at Chester City Hall, featuring live DJs and musical performances from 4:00 - 8:00 p.m.

Beginning at 7:00 p.m. on May 8, donors can visit DelcoGives.Org from a computer, smartphone, or any web-enabled device and make a donation to the nearly 300 participating nonprofits. 

Every donation qualifies for bonus funding provided by The Foundation for Delaware County and Delco Gives sponsors, maximizing the impact of each contribution. In addition, bonus prizes provided by local businesses will be awarded throughout the giving period. Participating organizations include those focused on education, healthcare, the arts, social services, the environment, seniors, and more.

A complete list of nonprofits can be found on the Delco Gives Day website at DelcoGives.Org. 

“Delco Gives is truly a celebration of our community spirit, connecting businesses and people to 285 nonprofits enhancing lives in the county,” said Frances Sheehan, President of The Foundation for Delaware County. “We hope Delaware County residents join us and celebrate all of the amazing nonprofits that provide critical resources and services right here in our backyard.” 

Volunteers Needed!

Donations aren’t the only way to support nonprofits—volunteers are needed to help ensure Delco Gives Day is a success!

Delco Gives! Day is looking for volunteers for a variety of events and activities leading up to the big day, including the Delco Gives’ Breakfast Tailgate at the Team Toyota in Glen Mills, Delco Gives’ yard sign distributions (multiple days, locations throughout the county), and to give out Delco Gives’ cards and Wawa coffee coupons at SEPTA stations (multiple days and locations).

Residents interested in pitching in can fill out a Delco Gives Volunteer Sign-Up Genius form at DelcoPA.Gov/DGD-Volunteer.

Residents are invited to visit DelcoGives.org website to check out each participating nonprofit’s profile page and learn more about their mission and activities. 

Delaware County Govt Official 2024 Calendar

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