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The Delaware County Weekly
Bringing Delco news and information directly to our residents!
—— March 7, 2025 (162nd Edition) ——
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Delaware County Council Responds To Hospital Closure Announcement | Prospect Medical Holdings Announces Plan to close Crozer-Chester Medical Center and Taylor Hospital | |
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Members of Delaware County Council responded quickly to the Thursday, March 6 announcement by Prospect Medical Holdings, Inc. that it will close both Crozer-Chester Medical Center and Taylor Hospital in March 2025.
The exact date of closure remains fluid as FTI Consulting, Inc.—the receiver appointed through bankruptcy proceedings—manages deteriorating financial conditions on behalf of the troubled healthcare provider. Officials from Prospect informed a bankruptcy court on Thursday that there is only enough money to keep the hospitals open through March 14.
“It is infuriating to hear that Prospect has failed to keep their promises yet again to the residents of Delaware County, now that they’re done lining their own pockets at the expense of our communities,” said Delaware County Council Chair Dr. Monica Taylor. “Our county government has spent months hard at work to prepare for the possibility that these hospitals would be closed. We remain committed to an orderly, calm, and comprehensive process to helping ensure patients are transferred to other facilities that can provide the care they need.”
Delaware County government recently created a dedicated webpage, accessible at DelcoPA.Gov/Prospect, to keep residents up to date on the status of Prospect-owned hospitals, Prospect’s bankruptcy, and additional resources available to residents. Residents are also encouraged to use the Delaware County Health Department Wellness Line at (484) 276-2100.
“The closure of Taylor Hospital and Crozer-Chester Medical Center wasn’t inevitable, it is the direct result of greed and incompetence from Prospect’s corrupt ownership group,” said County Council Vice Chair Richard Womack. “As officials accountable to our neighbors and their needs, we worked hard to create an excellent Health Department that is building public health infrastructure to serve the community and supporting residents navigating these changes.”
| Crozer staff and elected officials speak out against potential closure of Crozer-Chester Medical Center in Upland. Photo courtesy of Kenny Cooper/WHYY | |
Prospect Medical Holdings, Inc. is the owner of Crozer Health, which employs thousands of hard-working Delaware County residents in the medical field and related positions. Delaware County Council also urged impacted residents to reach out to the County’s PA CareerLink® offices for re-employment support.
“For thousands of our friends and neighbors, going to work for years meant going to a Crozer facility and putting their time and talent into healing people and getting them back on their feet,” said County Council Member Elaine Paul Schaefer. “We will do everything we can to help folks find their next role and get back to work building Delaware County’s future. Even with a bankrupt Prospect, we’re going to make sure our best days as a county are ahead of us.”
Delaware County residents can also refer to the Delaware County Health Department’s Emergency Room Or Urgent Care: Know When to Go Where, a detailed guide to help determine whether emergency or urgent care is needed. For immediate medical emergencies, residents should dial 9-1-1.
| County Council Chair Dr. Monica Taylor, joined by elected officials, nurses and health care providers, and members of the community, addresses Prospect's announcement that it intends to close both Crozer-Chester Medical Center and Taylor Hospital. Photo courtesy of Delaware County Daily Times. |
Delaware County Hosts 2nd Annual Black History Month Celebration at Subaru Park | |
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Delaware County proudly concluded Black History Month this past week with its 2nd Annual Black History Month Celebration on February 27 at Subaru Park in Chester. The event brought together Delaware County Council, numerous members of the County Courts, County officials—including District Attorney Jack Stollsteimer, Controller Joanne Phillips, Public Defender Chris Welsh—members of County leadership and County employees, community leaders, and distinguished honorees to reflect on the rich history, leadership, and resilience of African Americans, while recognizing their profound impact on workplaces, communities, and society.
This year’s Black History Month theme, “African Americans and Labor,” highlighted the crucial role Black workers, labor leaders, and advocates have played in shaping fair workplaces, advancing economic justice, and strengthening communities across the nation.
County Council Chair Dr. Monica Taylor opened the event by recognizing the many County employees and partners who made the celebration possible and reflecting on the County’s efforts to honor Black History Month. “So much has been happening throughout the month, and today, as Black History Month nears its close, we pause to reflect on the profound contributions, struggles, and triumphs of Black Americans,” said Dr. Taylor. “This year’s theme—African Americans and Labor—highlights the vital role Black workers, entrepreneurs, and advocates have played in shaping our economy and communities. From the enslaved Africans whose labor built the foundation of this country to the skilled tradespeople, factory workers, educators, and civil rights leaders who fought for fair wages and dignity in the workplace, the history of Black labor is a history of strength, perseverance, and transformation.”
| Delaware County Council Chair Dr. Monica Taylor provides opening remarks for the County's 2nd Annual Black History Month Celebration with County officials, employees, and honorees | |
Arthur L. Jenkins, Jr., Director of Military and Veterans Affairs, served as the Master of Ceremonies for the event, guiding a program that honored the past, celebrated the present, and looked toward the future. The evening featured a stirring performance of the Black National Anthem by Charnee Washington, followed by James Hayes’ moving recitation of New Day’s Lyric—a powerful reflection on resilience, progress, and unity that underscored the perseverance of Black Americans in the face of adversity.
Delivering the keynote address, Magisterial District Judge Wilden Davis shared insights into the progress made within the court system over the past five decades, highlighting the strides toward equity and representation.
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COL Arthur Jenkins serves as Master of Ceremonies | |
Council Chair Taylor's opening remarks kick off the ceremony | |
Magisterial District Judge Wilden Davis delivers the Keynote Address | |
Charnee Washington delivers a moving rendition of the Black National Anthem | |
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Special Thanks to Our Partners and Contributors
Lansdowne Economic Development Corporation (LEDC)
Delaware County extends its deepest gratitude to the Lansdowne Economic Development Corporation (LEDC) for their generous donation of time and resources in creating the seven awards presented to this year’s honorees. Their commitment to fostering a thriving and sustainable Lansdowne community is truly commendable. Special thanks to Clare Finin, Executive Director, Madi Eads, Creative Spaces Coordinator, and Derek Ludwig, Operations Manager, for their leadership and dedication.
Learn more about the Lansdowne Economic Development Corporation and their community and economic development initiatives at www.lansdownesfuture.org.
FC Pennsylvania Stadium LLC, Oak View Group, Philadelphia Union
The celebration was held at The Primepoint Club, generously donated by FC Pennsylvania Stadium LLC, managed by the Oak View Group. We sincerely appreciate their support, and a special thank you to Emily Malek, Primepoint Club event manager, for her invaluable time and attention to detail in ensuring the event’s success.
More about Primepoint at www.philadelphiaunion.com/stadium/spaces/primepoint-club.
Illusions Banquet Hall and Pound Cake Heaven
The delicious aroma of freshly prepared food filled the event, thanks to Illusions Banquet Hall of Clifton Heights and Pound Cake Heaven of Chester City. Pam Thornton, owner of Pound Cake Heaven, along with Carlette and Kenneth Brooks, co-owners of Illusions Banquet Hall, provided exceptional dishes at a generous discount, ensuring guests enjoyed a warm and welcoming experience.
Visit them online at https://poundcakeheaven.net and on Facebook at www.facebook.com/illusionsbanquethall.
Delcora & Bob Bolan
We also extend our appreciation to Bob Bolan of Delcora for providing essential support and resources that contributed to the success of the celebration. Visit the Delcora website at www.delcora.org.
This celebration underscored the enduring legacy of Black excellence and progress, while highlighting the power of community collaboration. Thank you to all who made this event possible!
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Honoring Champions: Celebrating African Americans and Labor
The County's celebration also featured a special recognition of seven distinguished honorees whose dedication, leadership, and contributions have made a lasting impact on Delaware County. These individuals and organizations have excelled in their respective fields, fostering progress, advocacy, and positive change in the community.
Honorees included Cory Long, recognized for his outstanding work in community service and labor, and Elleanor Jean Hendley, honored for her dedication to education and health. Paul Johnson was recognized for his service as an elected official, while Barron Lacy was celebrated for his leadership in sustainability and development. Dyamond Gibbs received the Under 30 award for her early career achievements. The historic Nile Swim Club was recognized as a historical landmark, and Judge Nathaniel Nichols was honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award for his decades of service and leadership.
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Cory Long. Community Service and Labor Honoree
Cory Long serves as the executive director of the Making a Change Group. A nonprofit foundation that serves to end gun violence in Chester City. Mr. Longs grandparents raised him in Chester City, PA. Cory says, “I saw a lot of young people making choices because they didn’t have guidance.” Cory began mentoring young people, eventually calling the collective “Team M.A.C.” for “Making a Change”. Long sought to mitigate Chester City’s murder rate, which, per capita, surpassed Philadelphia and other cities.
In coordination with social services, neighborhood groups, and law enforcement, Making a Change Group has assisted in a 63 percent decrease in Chester City’s murder rate since 2020.
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Elleanor Jean Hendley. Education and Health Honoree
Elleanor Jean Hendley founded the nonprofit Teenshop, Inc.®, a nationally recognized weekend college preparatory and life skills program that prepares ‘girls with goals®’ for college and careers. In 2006, Ms. Hendley founded Girls Achieve, an education and lifestyle company that empowers adolescent girls through school, camp programs, and consumer products.
Active in community and civic affairs, Ms. Hendley is a member of the Forum of Executive Women, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, and The Links; Co-Founder of the Pennsylvania Coalition of 100 Black Women, and a Charter Member of the National Association of University Women of Suburban Philadelphia. "The program is all about exposure and empowerment. So, we have a very diverse curriculum that includes health and fitness, arts, and culture... each girl visits two college campuses a year, and we have 100% college acceptance."
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Paul Johnson. Elected/Governmental Official Honoree
Paul Johnson is the first African American elected to Prospect Park Borough Council. Additionally, he is the Chairman of the Delaware County Interactive Gaming Revenue Authority, DCIGRA. This board’s mission is to "...invest in economic and community development, emergency services, and non-profit organizations, with an emphasis on under-resourced communities.”
Paul is a Drexel graduate and is now an emeritus member of the Alumni Board of Governors. A tenured professor at Montgomery County Community College, volunteer flag football coach with Special Olympics-Delaware County, 30-year little league coach, member of the Police Athletic League Education Committee, and board chair of Affordable Housing Centers of Pennsylvania and Rock to the Future. Mr. Johnson serves many in the region.
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Barron Lacey. Sustainability And Development
Barron Lacey is an environmental activist who was appointed to the Delaware County Park Board. He is also a Chester Environmental Board member, who advises the Parks and Recreation Director on programming, and is executive director of the 9th Street Environmental Youth Corp.
Mr. Lacy advises Chester City, Chester Township, Brookhaven, Parkside, Aston, Upland, and Chichester on environmental issues. The 9th Street Environmental Youth Corp teaches young people the importance of respecting the environment while gaining income for projects around Chester, including tree and flower plantings, tree tending, and land and waterway clean-ups. Mr. Lacey works with the City of Chester to transform a long-abandoned building in Eyre Park into an environmental center.
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Dyamond Gibbs. Under 30 Honoree
Dyamond Gibbs has a deep passion for youth empowerment, juvenile justice, and serving marginalized communities, Dyamond is a young advocate with experience in nonprofit management, programming, community engagement, and leadership. Dyamond studied Psychology, Sociology, and Public Health at La Salle University and is now expanding her education in Criminal Justice.
Dyamond is a former Youth Empowerment Program Director and Co-founder of U.D.T.J. Organization, a nonprofit that focuses on social injustices, empowerment, and community programming in Delaware County. To further her work in advocacy and activism beyond Delaware County, she worked alongside the Amistad Law Project in Philadelphia on ending death by incarceration, people power initiatives, and community engagement. Dyamond is currently a Juvenile Justice Specialist in the City of Philadelphia and dedicates her free time to her own initiative, The Only Pipeline, to serve youth who have been impacted by the judicial system.
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The Nile Swim Club. Historical Location Honoree
The Nile Swim Club is an African American swim club open to all in Yeadon, Pennsylvania. White residents in Yeadon Borough, PA, socially enforced a racially segregated Yeadon Swim Club. In 1957, the Black community led by Carson Puriefoy, Elmer Stewart, and Zoe Mask rallied to crowdfund its own swimming pool, with 326 original bondholders from Yeadon and nearby communities contributing $250 each. The Nile Swim Club, open to all races, on July 11, 1959, and welcomed a thousand people to its large outdoor pool on the first day.
The club struggled into the 1970s and was nearly sold at auction to pay back taxes in 2018 before a campaign averted closure. The Nile Swim Club stabilized and rebounded in the late 2010s, growing from 200 to 1000 members, who paid a minimum of $300 monthly. The white-maintained Yeadon Swim Club closed in 2000. It was a popular and respected establishment, as noted in a 1959 issue of Jet Magazine. In May 2021, the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission installed a roadside marker outside The Nile Swim Club entrance on 513 South Union Avenue, recognizing The Club as the nation's first swim club owned and operated by Black people.
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Nathaniel C. Nichols. Lifetime Achievement Honoree
Nathaniel C. Nichols was a judge on the Delaware County Court of Common Pleas in Pennsylvania. He was elected in 2011, and his term expired in 2021.
In 1986, he joined the faculty of Widener Law School as a clinical professor. While at Widner Law School, he served as Dean of Students and Director of Clinical Programs.
For his exemplary efforts, Nichols received the Rose Tree Media School District Service Award in 2010, PBA Pro Bono Award in 2008, Chester NAACP Judge Robert A. Wright Freedom Award in 2005, Widener Law School Alumni Association Professor of the Year Award in 2003, Delaware County Bar Association Elizabeth Price Service Award in 2001 and Domestic Abuse Project Victims’ Rights Award in 1990.
In 2018, the Pennsylvania Bar Association (PBA) Children’s Rights Committee named Delaware County Court of Common Pleas Judge Nathaniel C. Nichols of Media its Child Advocate of the Year. The award recognizes the accomplishments of lawyers and judges who advocate for children within the commonwealth or are involved with child advocacy.
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Student Artwork Showcase Highlights Young Artists’ Perspectives
In addition to these honorees, the celebration highlighted the talents of students from across Delaware County through a Student Artwork Showcase, where young artists submitted a variety of drawings and paintings inspired by this year’s Black History Month theme, “African Americans and Labor.”
Students from Culbertson Elementary, Ridley High School, Chichester High School, Springton Lake Middle School, and Academy Park High School participated in the showcase, using their creativity to reflect on the contributions of Black workers, activists, and leaders throughout history. Their artwork captured themes of perseverance, equity, and progress, offering powerful visual interpretations of how African Americans have shaped the workforce and the nation.
The showcase provided students with a meaningful opportunity to honor history through art, ensuring that the stories and achievements of Black workers remain an integral part of our collective memory.
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Missed it Live? Watch the Celebration Livestream Recording Here!
The celebration was livestreamed and recorded for those unable to attend in person and is available for viewing at DelcoPA.Gov/BHM.
| Click to watch Delaware County's 2nd Annual Black History Month Celebration (1:38:35) | Delaware County extends its gratitude to all who contributed to making this celebration a success. Congratulations to the honorees, and deep appreciation to all Black Americans whose contributions, leadership, and resilience continue to shape our communities, workplaces, and history. | |
Delaware County Council Visits Local Schools as Part of Black History Month Activities | | |
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As part of the County's Black History Month celebration, County Council Chair Dr. Monica Taylor and Council Member Christine Reuther brought stories of resilience, courage, and achievement to life as they read to young students in schools across Delaware County.
Dr. Taylor shared Martin’s Big Words: The Life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and Sing, Aretha, Sing! with students, introducing them to the powerful legacies of Dr. King and Aretha Franklin. Council Member Reuther engaged students with Molly, By Golly!—the inspiring story of America’s first female firefighter—and The Oldest Student, which tells the remarkable true story of Mary Walker, a former enslaved woman, learning to read at 116 years old.
The readings sparked meaningful discussions about leadership, perseverance, and activism, encouraging students to reflect on the lasting impact of these historical figures. Through engaging storytelling, Council helped foster a deeper understanding of Black history and the contributions of African Americans who have shaped our nation.
A special thank you to The Children’s Ark at St. George’s in Havertown and Media Elementary School for welcoming Council and providing students with the opportunity to celebrate Black history through the power of storytelling.
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Delaware County Secures Grants to Advance Lower Darby Creek Trail Design | |
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Delaware County is taking a significant step forward in expanding its regional trail network with the announcement of two grants that will support the design of a key section of the Lower Darby Creek Trail.
These grants—totaling $368,000—will help advance the County’s long-standing efforts to enhance trail access in some of its most densely populated and economically disadvantaged communities.
The Lower Darby Creek Trail is part of the Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission’s (DVRPC) Circuit Trails Network and has been a priority for the County for decades. The project aims to connect county and municipal parks from Bishop Avenue in Upper Darby through Lansdowne, Yeadon, and Darby Boroughs to Cobbs Creek Park in Philadelphia, offering residents improved access to outdoor recreation and transportation options.
Funding the Future of Trails in Delaware County
To advance this project, Delaware County has secured two key grants:
- A $198,000 Regional Trails Program grant from DVRPC will fund the design of a 1.4-mile loop trail extending from Penn Pines Park on Providence Road in Upper Darby to MacDade Boulevard at the SEPTA Transportation Center. The trail will pass through the new County Park on Springfield Road and Bartram Park in Darby Borough and will feature two bridges to enhance connectivity.
- A $170,000 Greenways, Recreation, and Trails grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) will provide additional funding for the same design work.
“This is about more than just building a trail—it’s about ensuring that all our communities in Delaware County have safe, accessible, and enjoyable outdoor recreation spaces,” said Delaware County Council Member Elaine Paul Schaefer. “For decades, the County has pursued this project, and thanks to these grants and the dedication of our Planning Department, we are finally taking a major step toward making this trail a reality.”
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Pictured: Darby Creek in Haverford Township, Delaware County | |
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A Critical Investment in Community and Connectivity
The Lower Darby Creek Trail is particularly significant because it serves some of the smallest and most densely populated municipalities in the County, where access to public trails is limited. The surrounding area ranks high on most economic distress measures used by DVRPC, the Commonwealth, and federal agencies, making investments in public spaces like trails even more impactful.
Once completed, the 1.4-mile loop trail will connect Mercy Fitzgerald Hospital and nearby neighborhoods to the SEPTA Transportation Center, link public parks with commercial areas, and improve transportation options by offering a safe, walkable, and bike-friendly route.
“The Lower Darby Creek Trail has been a County priority for years, and securing this funding is a significant step forward,” said Planning Director Gina Burritt. “Expanding our trail network is not just about recreation—it’s about increasing access to open space, improving public health, and creating stronger connections to transit and economic opportunities that benefit residents across the County.”
The County’s Planning Department is currently developing a scope for a Request for Proposals (RFP) to complete the design work, with the bid expected to be released in the spring and awarded by summer. The full design process is estimated to take 18 months to two years, paving the way for future construction.
“This is a long-term investment in both recreation and equity,” Schaefer added. “We’re committed to making sure all residents—regardless of where they live—have access to high-quality green spaces.”
Delaware County extends its thanks to DVRPC, DCED, and the County Planning Department for helping to make this project possible.
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One of the oldest buildings in the nation, the Lower Swedish Cabin is off the trail near Drexel Hill. It was built around 1650 by Swedish settlers. | |
The parking lot at Gillespie Park now doubles as a trailhead for the southern segment in Clifton Heights and Drexel Hill. | |
The Darby Creek trail threads a route between the dog park and the creek in Kent Park. | |
A trolley car SEPTA station that the southernmost segment of the trail passes near Clifton Heights. | |
View of the footbridge that carries the southern portion of the trail over Darby Creek. | |
As of 2024, a gap still separates the southern portion of the trail from Garret Road. | |
Register of Wills Launches ‘Marriage Mondays’ to Celebrate Couples and Expand Services | |
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The Delaware County Register of Wills Office, led by Vincent Rongione, has launched Marriage Mondays, a new social media initiative aimed at celebrating local couples and raising awareness about the office’s role in granting marriage licenses. This initiative also serves as a nod to the tradition of publishing marriage announcements in local newspapers, giving couples a modern platform to share their special moment.
The Register of Wills Office processes approximately 2,500 marriage licenses each year. As part of its ongoing efforts to improve accessibility, the office is exploring the possibility of offering online appointments, which would place Delaware County among a select group of Pennsylvania counties providing this convenience. Notably, marriage licenses issued in Delaware County are valid statewide, allowing couples from across Pennsylvania to apply locally.
“Our Marriage License division, led by Mandi Collett, does an incredible job helping couples navigate this important step in their lives,” said Register of Wills Vincent Rongione. “We love being part of their special day, and Marriage Mondays is a great way to highlight both the couples and the work of our dedicated staff.”
Introducing Josey and Garrett: A Military Love Story
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The first couple featured in Marriage Mondays, Josey and Garrett, has a love story shaped by service, distance, and adventure. Their journey began at Osan Air Base in South Korea, where they met while training and working side by side. Amid the demands of military life, they quickly formed a deep friendship—bonding over late-night conversations and Peaky Blinders marathons.
As their relationship grew, so did the challenges of maintaining it across deployments. When Garrett was stationed in Spain, they endured 123 days apart before reuniting for a brief 23-day visit in the U.S. to meet each other’s families—only to face another 144 days of separation before finally reuniting in Germany. Since then, they have navigated long-distance life together, making weekly two-hour commutes between each other's apartments.
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Their love story has taken them across three continents and 11 countries, proving that commitment and patience can overcome even the greatest distances. Now, as they begin this new chapter as newlyweds, they serve as a testament to the resilience of military couples who make love work across time zones and borders.
To assist military personnel and veterans, the office offers several key benefits. Service members facing deployment can have the three-day waiting period waived, ensuring they can complete necessary arrangements without delay. The office also provides free certified copies of marriage certificates to service members and veterans, making it easier to access important documents when needed.
“We can never fully repay our service members and veterans for their sacrifices, but we’re proud to offer small ways to show our gratitude,” said Rongione. “Ensuring that military couples have an easier path to marriage is just one way our office can serve those who have served us.”
Through Marriage Mondays and enhanced accessibility initiatives, the Register of Wills Office continues to find new ways to celebrate love, support local families, and provide meaningful assistance to the community.
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Stay connected with the Delaware County Register of Wills Office on social media! Follow the office for updates, important announcements, and helpful resources.
Find them on Facebook, LinkedIn, Bluesky, and Twitter/X by searching Delcoregister, and on Instagram and Threads by searching Delcorow. Stay informed and engaged with the latest news and services!
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DCHD and Keystone First Host Cooking for Wellness Classes Focused on Diabetes Prevention | |
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The Delaware County Health Department (DCHD) and Keystone First, in partnership with the Share Food Program, are proud to announce the return of the Cooking for Wellness initiative. This program provides residents with hands-on cooking education designed to help prevent type 2 diabetes and promote overall health.
In 2025, two Cooking for Wellness sessions will be offered, giving residents the opportunity to learn about healthy eating habits, create nutritious meals, and receive free diabetes screenings. Participants will also receive free groceries, courtesy of the Share Food Program. Each session will be led by a registered dietitian nutritionist and health professionals.
“Healthy eating is one of the most effective ways to reduce the risk of diabetes,” said Delaware County Health Department Director Lora Werner. “These classes offer hands-on guidance to help residents make informed food choices and build lasting habits.”
Residents who are considered pre-diabetic are encouraged to attend these interactive cooking sessions to learn how they can lower blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Prediabetes is a serious health condition where blood sugar levels are higher than normal but not yet high enough for a type 2 diabetes diagnosis. Risk factors include being overweight, age 45 or older, having a family history of diabetes, and being physically active fewer than three times a week.
How to Register
Each session requires registration. Residents can sign up by calling the Delaware County Wellness Line Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at (484) 276-2100 or by emailing DelcoWellness@co.delaware.pa.us.
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2025 Cooking for Wellness Session Details
Keystone First Wellness and Opportunity Center
1929 W. 9th Street, Chester, PA 19013
Wednesday, March 12, 2025
11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
- Learn how to prevent, delay, and manage diabetes through healthy cooking
- Includes diabetic screenings, giveaways, and resources
Upper Darby Senior Center
326 Watkins Ave, Upper Darby, PA 19082
Wednesday, March 26, 2025
11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
- Open to Delaware County residents age 50 and older
- Features cooking demonstrations, health screenings, and nutrition education
Residents interested in improving their health through better nutrition are encouraged to participate. Register today and take the first step toward a healthier future.
| Some moments from 2024's Cooking for Wellness classes | |
Fair Acres Geriatric Center to Host Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Job Fair on March 12 at Lima Campus | |
The Delaware County-operated Fair Acres Geriatric Center, recently ranked among the best nursing homes in the United States by Newsweek magazine and the largest skilled nursing facility in Delaware County, is hosting a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) job fair on Wednesday, March 12, from 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m., on their Lima campus.
CNAs play a vital role in providing compassionate, hands-on care to the residents at Fair Acres, assisting with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and mobility. Their dedication enhances the quality of life for elderly residents, fostering dignity, comfort, and well-being in a supportive, home-like setting.
Certified Nursing Assistants interested in a fulfilling career at Fair Acres are encouraged to attend, meet with hiring managers and recruiters, and explore the many opportunities available. On-the-spot interviews will be offered, so applicants should bring their resumes.
CNA Job Fair Details
Date: Wednesday, March 12, 2025
Time: 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Location: Fair Acres Campus, Building #4 (Margaret Watson Kitchen)
Address: 340 N. Middletown Road, Lima, PA
Parking: Free
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Why Join Fair Acres?
Fair Acres is committed to supporting its CNAs with competitive pay, outstanding benefits, and a supportive work environment where employees can truly make a difference in the lives of residents.
CNAs at Fair Acres receive: $1,000 sign-on bonus for all shifts; Competitive compensation with recently updated pay rates; Full benefits for full-time employees; Paid vacation (2 weeks to start); 16 paid holidays; Pension plans for long-term financial security; and Tuition reimbursement to support career growth.
Fair Acres offers residents long term care, short term rehabilitation, respite care and hospice services on a beautiful 210-acre campus and provides staff with competitive compensation (with recently updated pay rates), great benefits including a pension, a pleasant working environment, and the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of others!
For more information, visit www.fairacres.org or call (610) 891-8039.
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The CNA Job Fair is Wednesday, March 12, 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m., on the Fair Acres Lima campus | |
Delaware County Joins Officials for Kingsman Road Park Project Groundbreaking in Upper Chichester | |
Council Chair Dr. Monica Taylor, Council Member Christine Reuther, and Planning Director Gina Burritt joined State Senator John Kane, State Representative Carol Kazeem, and Upper Chichester officials, including Township Manager George Needles, Recreation Director Brian Warren, and the Upper Chichester Board of Commissioners, to break ground on the Kingsman Road Park project in Upper Chichester.
“This is an exciting milestone for the Upper Chichester community and a testament to what can be accomplished through collaboration between local, county, and state partners,” said Dr. Monica Taylor. “By working together and leveraging resources, we are making meaningful investments in our parks and green spaces, ensuring they remain accessible, sustainable, and welcoming for generations to come. Projects like this not only improve individual neighborhoods—they help build a better Delaware County for everyone.”
Upper Chichester Township officials also emphasized the impact this project will have on the community. "This transformative project represents our commitment to creating inclusive, modern recreational spaces for all our residents," said the Upper Chichester Township Board of Commissioners in a shared statement. "The new Kingsman Park will serve as a cornerstone of our community, providing recreational opportunities that span generations."
The project will bring significant improvements to accessibility, recreation, and sustainability, creating a more inclusive and welcoming space for residents of all ages.
New inclusive play equipment on a rubber play surface, state-of-the-art pickleball and bocce ball courts, and ADA-compliant walkways, sidewalks, benches, and on-street parking will enhance usability. Stormwater management upgrades, including a rain garden, will help protect and sustain the park’s green space for years to come.
| Upper Chichester Commissioners with County Council, members of the State delegation, and other local officials talk about the exciting future in store for residents and Kingsman Road Park | |
Funding Sources
Funding for the $1.2 million project includes support from the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources' Keystone Bureau of Recreation, Parks and Conservation Fund Grant, the Delco Green Ways Grant Program, Energy Transfer, local real estate taxes, and recreation development fees. Delaware County contributed $250,000 in Green Ways funding to support the renovations.
“Upper Chichester has done an incredible job making smart, community-driven investments in parks and green space,” said Planning Director Gina Burritt. “This project is going to provide lasting benefits, improving recreation and accessibility while also promoting sustainability.”
The Delco Green Ways Grant Program, administered by the Delaware County Planning Department, has played a key role in supporting projects like Kingsman Road Park across the county. Previous Green Ways funding in Upper Chichester has supported a parks and recreation master plan, trail feasibility studies, public event space at Boothwyn Town Center, and land acquisition for Ogden School Park.
“This is exactly what Green Ways funding was meant to do—help communities bring meaningful improvements to their public spaces,” said Dr. Taylor. “Upper Chichester has made the most of this program, and Kingsman Road Park will be another success story.”
The county credited the Upper Chichester Township Commissioners, Township Manager George Needles, Recreation Director Brian Warren, and township staff for their leadership in making this project a reality.
“This wouldn’t be possible without the vision and dedication of Upper Chichester’s leadership,” said Council Member Christine Reuther. “They’ve consistently prioritized green space and recreation, ensuring these improvements benefit residents for generations to come.”
With construction now underway, Kingsman Road Park is set to become a thriving community asset, providing a safe and welcoming space for recreation, connection, and outdoor enjoyment.
For project updates and more information, residents can visit UpperChi.Org, and can learn more about the County’s efforts to enhance recreational spaces, promote sustainability, and support community-driven park improvements through the Delco Green Ways Grant Program at DelcoPA.Gov/Planning.
| The Delaware County team, pictured left to right, Planning Director Gina Burritt, Senior Planner Cathy Spahr, Council Chair Dr. Monica Taylor, Planner Kelsey Stanton-Murphy, Council Member Christine Reuther, and Executive Director Barbara O'Malley, breaking ground at Kingman Road Park | |
Reminder! Make a Difference in Your Community – Volunteer for the Keep Delco Beautiful Clean-Up and Celebration on March 15
| Calling all changemakers, park lovers, volunteers, and anyone who is tired of seeing litter in our communities! | |
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The Delaware County Office of Sustainability invites residents to be part of the Keep Delco Beautiful Launch Clean Up and Celebration event on Saturday, March 15, 2025 at Sun Village Park in Chester City.
This event marks the official kickoff of Keep Delco Beautiful, an initiative that unites community groups, volunteers, and organizations in a shared mission to keep Delaware County safe, clean, and beautiful. Participants will take part in a park cleanup and beautification project, followed by a celebration with free food, refreshments, and opportunities to connect with local organizations that are leading the charge in environmental stewardship.
"There is power in partnership, and this event perfectly highlights that power," said Becca Yurkovich, County Sustainability Officer. "Keep Delco Beautiful brings together the many organizations that are working to keep our community safe, clean, and beautiful. Participants in this event can expect a high-energy day of fun and togetherness as we work to make and Keep Delco Beautiful."
“Keep Delco Beautiful is about more than just picking up litter; it's about fostering pride, connection, and responsibility for the spaces we share,” said County Council Member Elaine Paul Schaefer. “This event is an opportunity for residents to come together, make a visible impact, and be part of something bigger."
| Residents and County volunteers team up to 'Keep Delco Beautiful' in celebration of Earth Day in 2024 in Chester | |
Keep Delco Beautiful Event Details
Date: Saturday, March 15, 2025
Time: 10:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. (Cleanup: 11:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.; Refreshments and celebration: 12:30 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.)
Location: Sun Village Park, Chester, PA (9th and Elsinore Streets) – Additional parking on Curry Street
Residents of all ages and abilities are welcome, and all cleanup supplies, including gloves, vests, litter pickers, and bags, will be provided by the Office of Sustainability.
To learn more about Keep Delco Beautiful, to register, and to sign up to table, click the buttons located below. For questions, please contact Becca Yurkovich, County Sustainability Officer, at yurkovichr@co.delaware.pa.us or by phone at (484) 846-2075.
Join us in making an impact—let’s Keep Delco Beautiful together!
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