The Delaware County Weekly

Bringing Delco news and information directly to our residents!

—— May 24, 2024 (122nd edition) ——

Delaware County’s Parks and Recreation Department is excited to announce the entertainment lineup for the 2024 Rose Tree Summer Festival, the 49th annual award-winning concert series. Free concerts in the outdoor amphitheater began when Rose Tree Park opened in 1975 and have been a popular local attraction ever since. 

“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.” 

The nine-week Summer Festival season runs June 12-August 11, on Wednesday through Sunday evenings at 7:30 p.m. There are also three special morning concerts for children, which begin at 10:00 a.m. on June 14, June 27, and July 3.  

There will be early festivities prior to the show on Wednesday, June 19 as part of Delaware County’s 3rd annual Juneteenth Celebration. The special event features vendors, food trucks, and presenters starting at 4:00 p.m. and culminates with a Philly Gumbo concert at 7:30 p.m.

The live entertainment changes nightly, and fans will find a wide variety of genres throughout the summer, including Rock, Pop, Blues, Broadway, R&B, Reggae, Big Band, Brazilian Jazz, and more. 

From orchestral performances, such as opening night’s Delaware County Symphony, 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.

Manfre highlighted that Delaware County is thrilled to have the privilege of presenting the Six-String Soldiers on Saturday, July 6. “This ensemble from the U.S. Army Field Band features some of the finest professional musical talent in the nation — you’ll see why they keep popping up on television.” The most followed military music group in the world, Six-String Soldiers is a five-member country music group performing Americana and patriotic music.

The Return of Annual Favorites—and Debuts from Local Bands

Annual favorites such as The Fabulous Greaseband, Sensational Soul Cruisers, Chico’s Vibe, and Jimmy & the Parrots will be returning this season, and several exciting new tribute acts have been added to the mix. Wooden Ships celebrates the catalog of Crosby, Stills & Nash; Mysterious Ways creates “The U2 Experience;” Savoy Truffle plays the music of George Harrison; and the ‘70s Midnight Rock Show delivers a decade of classic FM Rock Radio. 

Several extremely popular local groups will make their Rose Tree Summer Festival debuts this season, including Jamison Celtic Rock, Stella Ruze, and rising star Barry Harris, a Glenolden native who’s recently returned from making music on the west coast.

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 County's Rose Tree Summer Festival website.

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. Rose Tree Summer Festival concerts are weather permitting; there are no rain dates. To check for a cancellation message, please call (610) 891-4455. To receive notifications, select Parks & Recreation Alerts in the Delco Alert system or text the word DELCOPARKS to 888777. 

For more information about Delaware County parks and the variety of programs and activities available, please call the Parks & Recreation Department directly or visit DelcoPA.Gov/Parks.

We hope to see you there!

The Delaware County Health Department (DCHD) officially announced the County’s new Delco Revive program, dedicated to providing free life-saving resources and training to local residents and organizations. 

The new program, soft-launched in 2023, offers Delaware County residents, organizations, schools, and businesses a variety of essential resources, including NARCAN® nasal spray (Naloxone), an overdose-reversing medication, Xylazine and Fentanyl test strips, and wound care kits. The program also provides free CPR certification and ‘Stop the Bleed’ tourniquet training. 

During the May 21 official launch, DCHD personnel demonstrated the proper use of NARCAN® nasal spray, "stop the bleed" wound kits, and instructions on how to properly use Xylazine and Fentanyl test strips, which can detect minimal amounts of substances in seconds. DCHD staff also demonstrated the proper administration of CPR to both children and adults.

All Delco Revive program materials are available at all three DCHD office locations, including the Wellness Centers in Yeadon and Chester, as well as the DCHD administrative and environmental health office at Baldwin Towers in Eddystone.

“All of these tools are available at our three locations of the Delaware County Health Department,” said DCHD Director Melissa Lyon. “We urge residents to take advantage of these resources, to help friends, family, and themselves.”

Director Lyon was joined by Phil Waibel, a survivor and Primary Therapist/Law Enforcement Treatment Initiative Coordinator at MVP Recovery, who shared his story of battling opioid addiction and how the administration of Narcan by paramedics saved his life, giving him the opportunity to seek help.

Phil Waibel, a survivor and Primary Therapist/Law Enforcement Treatment Initiative Coordinator at MVP Recovery, shares his story of battling opioid addiction 

“We may never know if and when that day will come that someone struggling decides to seek recovery,” said DCHD Director Melissa Lyon. “I urge everyone to carry the tools to gift one more day of life.”

DCHD hopes to increase the number of residents carrying Narcan nasal spray and who are equipped with the knowledge necessary to help themselves and others. DCHD also stressed that a person can’t get in trouble for administering Narcan or taking other lifesaving action, as it is covered by the Good Samaritan law.

“This is a program that is helping the entire community,” said Delaware County Council Chair Dr. Monica Taylor. “We know that opioid addiction affects residents of all ages, races and genders from throughout the county and all across the country. Addiction has no boundaries and we are tackling this epidemic head on.”

Delco Revive is funded through $137,286 of Delaware County’s opioid settlement funds. In September 2022, Delaware County Council announced a historic $62.5 million opioid settlement with pharmaceutical distributors. As a result, Delaware County will receive annual payments for 18 years, averaging $3.5 million per year, to tackle the devastating opioid epidemic affecting residents, their loved ones, and the community.

All Delco Revive program materials are available at the three DCHD office locations, open Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.:

• Delaware County Wellness Center at Yeadon: 125 Chester Ave., Yeadon, PA
• Delaware County Wellness Center at Chester: 151 W. Fifth St., Chester, PA
• DCHD Eddystone location: 1510 Chester Pike, Suite 700, Eddystone

Free CPR certification and “Stop the Bleed” training appointments are available through the Delaware County Wellness Line at (484) 276-2100. 

For more information about Delco Revive, visit DelcoRevive.com.

The Delaware County Office of the Public Defender, supported by Partners for Justice (PFJ) advocates, will host a free expungement clinic on Saturday, June 15, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Delaware County Public Defender’s office in Media.

In addition to record-clearing services, the Expungement Clinic will feature representatives from community organizations who will provide free guidance on immigration concerns, employment needs, and substance use treatment.

Immigration attorney Nadine Atkinson-Flowers will be available to answer residents' questions about immigration, citizenship, and related topics. This is a great opportunity for residents to ask questions, get answers, and receive free guidance.

MVP Recovery will be on hand to distribute information and resources regarding substance use treatment.

EDSI will also be available to help residents with employment needs.

Attorneys will also be available to check for active Delaware County warrants.

Eligibility Criteria for Expungement:

• Arrest occurred in Delaware County

And ONE of the following:

• Arrest resulted in a non-conviction (charges were “dismissed,” “withdrawn,” “not guilty,” or “nolle prossed”)
• Arrest resulted in a summary conviction (if you have also been arrest-free for 5 years and have paid all fines and costs)
• You completed a diversion program such as ARD, DCMD, or LETI
• You are 70+ years old and have been arrest free for 10 years

Residents interested in attending are asked to complete a Expungement Clinic Interest Form and provide their contact information. We will text and email updates. 

Expungement Clinic Details

When: Saturday, June 15, 2024 from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

Where: 220 N. Jackson Street, Media, PA 19063

Street parking is available, with metered parking in front of the office and non-metered parking on portions of 3rd Street.

The Public Defender's Office can be reached by phone at (610) 891-4100.

More than $1.7 million raised by Delaware County residents & businesses in 24 hours

Delaware County Council extends its congratulations to The Foundation for Delaware County, led by Foundation President Frances Sheehan, and all the many non-profits, corporate sponsors, and residents who made the first-ever Delco Gives Day 2024 a tremendous success.

The inaugural Delco Gives Day event, held on May 8-9, surpassed expectations by raising more than $1.7 million in just 24 hours. This impressive total demonstrates the overwhelming generosity and community spirit of Delaware County. Over 9,600 gifts were made to support nearly 300 nonprofits throughout the county.

“This event has shown the incredible strength and unity of our community,” said Foundation President Sheehan. “We are deeply grateful to everyone who contributed, making a real difference in the lives of so many.”

Delco Gives 2024 provided much-needed funding for a wide array of nonprofit organizations, from large institutions such as Natural Lands to smaller groups such as Delco Dawgs and Murphy’s Giving Market. These organizations, which provide critical services including hunger relief, day care, education, and emergency services, will benefit greatly from the community's support.

The event was marked by a series of celebrations across the county, including launch events held in Media and Chester, featuring local celebrities, elected officials, and a closing festival at Rose Tree Park. These festivities not only raised additional funds but also increased visibility for the vital work being done by local nonprofits.

“The success of Delco Gives Day highlights the power of community action,” said Delaware County Council Chair Dr. Monica Taylor. “Our community has come together to support and uplift each other, demonstrating that we truly are stronger together.”

The success of Delco Gives was made possible by the generous contributions of numerous local businesses and sponsors. Their support, along with the tireless efforts of the nonprofits, highlighted the collaborative spirit of Delaware County. Every dollar donated is a testament to the community’s commitment to improving lives and addressing critical needs.

Delaware County Council is proud to recognize and celebrate the dedication of everyone involved in Delco Gives 2024. This event not only provided essential funding but also brought the community together in a powerful way, showcasing the strength and generosity of Delaware County.

For more information about the success of Delco Gives Day and to find out how you can continue to support local nonprofits, visit the Delco Gives Day website at DelcoGives.Org or visit The Foundation for Delaware County’s website at DelcoFoundation.Org.

To see a detailed list of gifts for Delaware County nonprofits, check out the Delco Gives Day Leaderboard.

Delaware County Council thanks The Foundation and everyone who contributed to this successful event and looks forward to a second Delco Gives Day next year. Stay tuned for the date!

The 46th annual Delaware County Hero Bowl will be held at 6:30 p.m. on May 30 at Cardinal O’Hara High School, located at 1701 Sproul Rd, Springfield, PA.

Over 100 All-Star football players, coaches, and cheerleaders from across the county will join together to participate in the annual game which raises money to benefit the Hero Scholarship Fund of Delaware County. The Delaware County Hero Scholarship Committee 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. 

The scholarship program honors Delaware County’s fallen heroes by providing educational support for their family members. Through the scholarship program, the Delaware County Hero Scholarship Committee aims to alleviate the financial burden that can accompany pursuing higher education. To date, $790,000 has been raised and 37 children of fallen heroes have received educational benefits from the Hero Scholarship Fund. 

The All-Star football players were selected by the Delaware County Football Coaches Association and trained by teachers and coaches of outstanding record.

Council commends the players, coaches and organizers, the Delaware County Hero Scholarship Committee and the hundreds of people who participate, cheer on the teams, or sponsor the game.

Tickets are $10. Kick off is at 6:30 p.m. More details about the Hero Scholarship Fund of Delaware County, Inc. and the annual Hero Bowl can be found online at DelcoHeroBowl.com.

Delaware County is searching for local vendors to participate in the County’s 3rd annual Juneteenth Celebration on Wednesday, June 19 at Rose Tree Park. The free, family-friendly event will feature live music, activities for kids and families, food, resources for the community, talented local vendors, and much more!

The celebration will feature a headline performance by Philly Gumbo as well as artistic performances from local residents and groups.

The annual Juneteenth Celebration will also showcase some of Delaware County’s local business owners selling artwork, jewelry, and crafts along with, food trucks, and resources from local organizations across the county. 

For more info about Delaware County’s Juneteenth Celebration go to www.juneteenthdelco.com, or go directly to www.juneteenthdelco.com/vendor-application to submit a vendor application.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notes that every 20 minutes an older adult in the U.S. dies from a fall, and that falls are the most common cause of traumatic brain injury. 

To address this significant health risk, the Delaware County Office of Services for the Aging (COSA), in collaboration with Main Line Health, are teaming up to offer the evidence-based Healthy Steps program for Delaware County residents ages 60 and older.

The Healthy Steps program helps reduce fall risk by helping participants address fears while educating and equipping them with the right tools to make a difference in their lives. Research has found that adults who completed the Healthy Steps workshop lower their risk of a fall by 15%.

COSA will offer the free two-day program virtually on Zoom (offered in collaboration with CrozerHealth) on June 4 and June 5, and in-person at the Senior Community Services’ Friendship Circle Senior Center in Darby on June 11 and June 18. Participants must attend both sessions. 

All program costs, including the Healthy Steps workbook, are covered by COSA, so the program is FREE, however class size is limited, and registration is required. The in-person program is preceded by a separate in-person Physical Skills Assessment session that will be scheduled as part of the registration process.  

Virtual Healthy Steps Fall Prevention Program (Zoom, in collaboration with CrozerHealth) 

• Tuesday June 4, 1:00 to 3:30 p.m. on Zoom
• Wednesday, June 5, 1:00 to 3:30 p.m. on Zoom 

Virtual Zoom Registration: Contact Ellen Williams at williamse@co.delaware.pa.us or call (610) 499-1937 and provide name, address, phone number and email.

Senior Community Services’ Friendship Circle Senior Center

1515 Lansdowne Ave, Darby, PA

• Tuesday, June 11, (physical skills assessment by appointment)
• Tuesday, June 18, 10:00 a.m.to 12:30 p.m.                   
• Tuesday, June 25, 10:00 a.m.to 12:30 p.m.

In-Person Registration: Contact Anne Marie Wallace, Program Coordinator at Friendship Circle Senior Center, by email at awallace@scs.delco.org or call (484) 534-2033 and provide name, address, phone number and email.

Reminder: Registration Open for Delaware County’s 2024 Senior Games Through May 31

Reminder! The Delaware County Office of Services for the Aging (COSA) and the Delaware County Parks and Recreation Department are calling on all residents aged 50 and older to sign up for the 2024 Delaware County Senior Games, the popular Olympic-style competition that offers senior athletes and active older residents a chance to display their athletic prowess and compete for medals in various sporting events.

The Senior Games, which run from Monday, June 10 through Friday, June 21, promote social and physical activity among seniors, encouraging them to achieve their personal best. Each year, hundreds of athletes aged 50 and older from across the county participate. Competitions include track and field, swimming, golf, bowling, table tennis, bocce, corn hole, horseshoes, and pickleball. 

Register Today!

Registration is open now through Friday, May 31, and is required for all events. A registration fee of $15 is required for Delaware County residents 50 and older ($20 for non-residents). 

Registration forms, schedules, and additional information are available at the Parks and Recreation Office in Rose Tree Park, local libraries, senior centers, and online at DelcoSeniorGames.Org. Residents can also register by calling COSA at (610) 490-1300.

Delaware County job seekers, are you looking for a way to focus on your job search while ensuring your children have a rewarding and enriching summer? The “Delco Strong Summer Camp Solution” program is here to help.

The popular program, first launched in 2021 by the Delaware County Office of Workforce Development and the Delaware County Commerce Center, provides unemployed residents up to $1,000 in financial credit towards the cost of a child’s summer camp — which can be applied towards attendance fees and other fees charged by the camp — so that parents and caregivers are better able to focus on their search for employment and return to work. 

The program not only benefits caregivers, but also the children who are provided with rewarding and enriching summer experiences.

New Camps Added

In addition to the original participating camps, several new camps have been added recently. Current options include:

1. Boys & Girls Club of Chester (Chester)
2. Chef Dad's Table (Broomall)
3. Colonial Plantation (Gradyville)
4. Darlington Fine Arts Center (Garnet Valley)
5. Delaware County Community College Kids Camp (Media)
6. Discovery Place/Youth Enrichment Programs (Lansdowne)
7. Media Arts Council (Media)
8. Upper Chichester Township Summer Camp (Upper Chichester)
9. YMCA of Eastern Delaware County (Lansdowne, Ridley, and Springfield branches)

How to Apply

Unemployed residents of Delaware County with children under 15 can register. To take advantage of this opportunity:

• Visit the “Delco Strong Summer Camp Solution” page on the PA CareerLink Delaware County website.
• Review the list of participating camps.
• Contact your chosen camp to confirm dates and times and complete the registration process.

Once registered, the program will cover attendance costs and other related fees up to $1,000 per caregiver. Please note that residents who participated in previous years are not eligible.

Don’t Miss Out!

Ensure your children have a fantastic summer while you focus on your future. Apply now and take full advantage of the “Delco Strong Summer Camp Solution” program.

For additional information of interest to job seekers and employers, please visit the PA CareerLink of Delaware County website at https://pacareerlinkdelco.org.

How Camps Can Still Sign On

Camp organizations throughout Delaware County are encouraged to participate. To become a participating camp, please send an email to Delaware County Workforce Development at WorkForce-Camp@co.delaware.pa.us and a member of the team will be in contact to discuss program details.

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