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The Delaware County Weekly
Bringing Delco news and information directly to our residents!
—— March 29, 2024 (114th edition) ——
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As spring blooms across our beautiful county, Delaware County Council extends warm Easter greetings!
Easter is a Christian holiday commemorating the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, described in the New Testament as having occurred on the third day of his burial following his crucifixion by the Romans at Calvary c. 30 AD. It is the culmination of the Passion of Jesus Christ, preceded by Lent, a 40-day period of fasting, prayer, and penance.
This season of renewal and hope encouraging us to cherish our moments with loved ones and reflect on the beauty of new beginnings.
Delaware County Council also acknowledges the solemnity of Good Friday, a time for reflection and recognition of the enduring spirit of faith, hope, and renewal.
Wishing you a delightful Easter filled with happiness, health, and prosperity.
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Delaware County Elections’ 2024 Primary Election Kickoff Guide | What voters need to know less than one month until Election Day! | |
Delaware County Elections continues preparations for the April 23 Primary Election. Efforts include finalizing polling site assignments, testing equipment, preparing and printing ballots, issuing mail/absentee ballots, and conducting comprehensive training of poll workers leading up to Election Day.
This guide is designed to equip Delaware County voters with information necessary to cast their ballot at the upcoming April 23 Primary, ensuring every eligible voter knows how to register, where and how to cast their vote, and the important deadlines to observe.
Key Dates and Deadlines
- Election Day is on Tuesday, April 23. Polls are open from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
- The voter registration deadline is Monday, April 8, for first-time voters and citizens who need to update their registration records (e.g., change of address, name, political party, etc.).
- The deadline to apply for a mail/absentee ballot is Tuesday, April 16.
- The County’s mail-in and civilian absentee ballots will be mailed by Thursday, April 4, and the drop box at the Government Center in Media will open that day. The more than three dozen community drop boxes will be open by Monday, April 8.
- Mail-in and civilian absentee ballots must be received by the County by 8:00 p.m. on Election Day, Tuesday, April 23.
- Military and Overseas absentee ballots must arrive by Tuesday, April 30.
Pennsylvania: A Closed Primary
Pennsylvania’s closed primaries mean only voters registered with the Democratic or Republican parties will be able to receive the ballot for that party at this Primary. There are no referenda questions. By law, voters who are registered as independents or with a third party will not be eligible to participate in the Primary.
Voters who are currently registered as independents or with a third party must change party affiliation by Monday, April 8, to either Democratic or Republican, to vote on that party’s ballot on April 23.
Voter Registration
In order to vote in Delaware County, an individual must be a U.S. citizen, at least 18 years of age and have been a resident of their precinct at least 30 days before Election Day. Qualified voters can register online at DelcoPA.Gov/Register2Vote, or register in-person in the Voter Registration Office on the first floor of the Government Center Building at 201 W. Front Street in Media. In-person registrations are due by 4:30 p.m. on Monday, April 8.
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Sample Ballots
Sample ballots and a final list of candidates are available on the Delco Votes! website at DelcoPA.Gov/Sample, with unique sample ballots prepared for each precinct. Voters who are unsure of their polling precinct can determine their ward and precinct by entering their address.
Mail/Absentee Ballots
The bulk of Delaware County mail/absentee ballots requested to-date will be mailed by Friday, April 5, 2024. Mailings were delayed by a Pennsylvania Supreme Court case. Mail/absentee ballots are sent only to those voters who have completed and signed an application for the 2024 calendar year. Mail/absentee applications require valid ID.
Voters who have not yet applied for a mail/absentee ballots must complete the application process by Tuesday, April 16, at 5:00 p.m., available at DelcoPA.Gov/VBM-App.
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Secure Ballot Drop Boxes
Delaware County Elections maintains more than three dozen, secure, ADA-compliant ballot drop boxes, operated under 24/7 video surveillance. The drop boxes are located in the majority of municipalities across the County, and—unlike the requirement that in-person voters must vote at a specific polling place—the drop boxes can be used by any Delaware County voter regardless of their place of residence.
Ballot drop boxes are scheduled to open Monday, April 8. Before April 8, voters may use the drop box in the Government Center in Media, located inside the Orange Street entrance. Most drop boxes are open 24/7; however, two indoor sites have limited hours.
For the list of sites and hours, visit the Delco Votes! website at DelcoPA.Gov/Dropbox. Note: The Rose Valley drop box at Hedgerow Theatre has been closed and removed.
Additional Resources and Assistance
The Delaware County Election Hotline (610-891-VOTE) is available Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
The Delaware County Voter Service Center provides a variety of in-person voter services and is available Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Starting April 6, in-person services will be extended to Saturdays from 9:00 a.m. to 12 noon, and starting April 10, Wednesdays through 7:00 p.m.
The Delaware County’s election website — Delco Votes! — is available at DelcoPA.Gov/Vote.
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U.S. Department of Commerce Deputy Secretary Don Graves Celebrates Minority-Owned Business Shugar Shack Soul Food During Visit to Delaware County | |
Delaware County was proud to host U.S. Department of Commerce Deputy Secretary, Don Graves on March 26.
Deputy Secretary Don Graves visited Shugar Shack Soul Food, a Black and woman-owned takeout restaurant in Glenolden Borough. During the visit, attended by Glenolden Mayor Cliff Engel, Delaware County Council, and the Delaware County Commerce Center Director, the Deputy Secretary toured the restaurant, met with owner and chef Keenya Cain-Wiggins and her staff, and enjoyed a delicious meal.
The visit highlighted the importance of supporting minority-owned businesses and small businesses, which are the backbone of Delaware County’s economy.
“We are thrilled to have welcomed Deputy Secretary Graves to Glenolden Borough and to Shugar Shack Soul Food,” said Mayor Cliff Engel, Borough of Glenolden. “Shugar Shack is a shining example of the many talented and driven minority-owned businesses that contribute to the vibrancy of our business community.”
The visit served as an opportunity for the U.S. Department of Commerce to obtain a firsthand look into the strengths and challenges facing minority Delaware County business owners and to show his office’s support, aligning with the U.S. Department of Commerce’s mission to create the conditions for economic growth and opportunity for all communities.
|  | U.S. Dept of Commerce Deputy Secretary Don Graves and Delaware County Council Chair Dr. Monica Taylor with Shugar Shack owner and chef Keenya Cain-Wiggins. | |
“It was an honor to host Deputy Secretary Don Graves and to highlight an amazing Delco business owner,” said Delaware County Council Chair Dr. Monica Taylor. “Keenya Cain-Wiggins doesn't just focus on her own success; she passionately works to lift up the entire community of small business owners in Delaware County. That’s exactly the kind of leadership we like to see!”
Shugar Shack Soul Food serves savory soul food with Southern and Caribbean roots. In addition to her work at Shugar Shack, Ms. Cain-Wiggins is a true business leader in Delaware County. She is the founder of ‘Delco Nite Markets’, which amplify Black-owned businesses in the community. She also uses her podcast to discuss economic opportunities with other business owners.
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U.S. Department of Commerce Dep. Sec. Don Graves shaking hands with Delaware Council Council Member Christine Reuther | |
Glenolden Borough Mayor Cliff Engel and Glenolden Borough Council Vice President Kim Duffy share ideas | |
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“The importance of supporting small businesses is underscored by the fact that 98% of Delaware County businesses are considered ‘small’ by state and federal definitions, according to US Census 2021 County Business Patterns reports,” said Laura Goodrich Cairns, County of Delaware, Commerce Director. “We have a strong small business economic base. We work with our local, state, and federal elected officials to find new ways to support our small business economy here in Delaware County.
While not reaching pre-pandemic levels, the number of jobs in Delaware County has significantly grown nearly 20% from a low in March of 2020. Plus, the amount of business registration filings is at an all-time high of 14,581 (Preliminary Q3 2023 from the US Dept of Labor). “This growth highlights the need for continued support for small businesses, including technical assistance and affordable financing,” added Goodrich Cairns.
|  | Pictured, left to right: Delaware County Commerce Center Executive Director Laura Goodrich-Cairns, Delaware County Council Chair Dr. Monica Taylor, U.S. Dept of Commerce Deputy Secretary Don Graves, Shugar Shack owner and chef Keenya Cain-Wiggins, Shugar Shack employee Karetha Cooper, Vice President Glenolden Borough Council Hon. Kim Duffy, Shugar Shack employee Jewel Wiggins, Delaware County Chamber of Commerce President Trish McFarland | |
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About the Delaware County Commerce Center
The Delaware County Commerce Center is committed to helping businesses in Delaware County grow and thrive. The Commerce Center offers a variety of programs and resources to assist small businesses, including business counseling, loan programs, and networking opportunities. For more information, please visit delcopa.org.
Visit Shugar Shacks' website at www.shugarshacksoulfood.com.
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Delaware County Women's Commission’s 2024 Women of Achievement Awards Luncheon Held in Honor of Women’s History Month | |
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In celebration of Women’s History Month, Delaware County Council Chair Dr. Monica Taylor and Council Member Elaine Paul Schaefer were honored to attend the Delaware County Women’s Commission’s ‘Women of Achievement’ Awards Luncheon this weekend.
Held at the Ballrooms at Boothwyn, this annual celebration provides an opportunity for Delaware County women to be recognized for their invaluable accomplishments and contributions towards the betterment of the lives and opportunities of all women and serves as a platform for celebrating those who tirelessly advocate for a future in which women can achieve their full potential, free from barriers and discrimination.
This year, in a nod to Women’s History Month’s 2024 theme: ‘Women Who Advocate for Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion,’ three extraordinary women were selected for their dedication to championing equity, diversity, and inclusion within Delaware County.
| 2024 Women of Achievement Award Winners | | |
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Brittani Hales, pictured with her presenter County Council Member Elaine Paul Schaefer, is a proud native of Chester, and has dedicated over fifteen years to working on the forefront of community engagement, fostering connections among municipalities, schools, religious groups, non-profit organizations, and corporations. Most recently as a member of the County’s Planning Department, Brittani is contributing her energy towards efforts to improve the County’s parks, transportation network, trails, and green space, while ensuring that all communities have a voice in reshaping and modernizing the County infrastructure for use by all populations. | | |
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Latonia Lee, pictured with her presenter, Monet Riley, is a Haverford Township Board of School Director and Co-Chair for the Delaware County Right to Education Task Force. Ms Lee is a staunch advocate for special needs populations, championing issues of access and inclusion for children and families. A former member of the Board of the Maurice Rush Foundation (a local non-profit that supports parents of children with Autism), and a Veteran of the United States Air Force, Latonia has a long and decorated commitment to fighting for her community and those that are most vulnerable. | | |
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Michelle “Micki” Meekins-Davis, pictured with her presenter, Widener University President Dr. Stacey Robertson, is Widener University’s Chief Diversity Officer, is the founding director of Widener University’s Multicultural, Student Affairs Office. Through this work, she serves as primary resource and facilitator for multicultural, cultural competence, social justice, equity, and diversity related programs and workshops for students, faculty, and staff. Through her office, Micki assists Widener achieve its diversity goals and fosters a campus climate that values multiple perspectives and experiences to prepare students for success in an increasingly diverse and global society. | |
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Special thanks to Sharon Booker, Chair of the DCWC, Vice-Chair Tammi Forbes, and to all of the remarkable members of the Commission for a memorable afternoon. Our gratitude also extends to the staff at Lia’s Catering for providing an unforgettable feast.
Again, congratulations again to Brittani, Latonia, and “Micki” for your amazing successes; your achievements are a testament to the power of women’s leadership and the indomitable spirit of our community. We wish you good luck as you continue to pave the way for future generations of women to thrive and succeed in all walks of life.
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Pictured, left to right: Yumeno Young, Dr. Stacey Robertson, Arnita DeShields, Sharon Booker, Elaine Paul Schaefer, Deborah Mantegna, Brittani Hales, Patricia Fletcher, Latonia Lee, Kamira A. Evans, Elleanor Jean Hendley, Michelle “Micki” Meekins-Davis, Barbara O'Malley, Farida Hasanali, Monet Riley, Tammi Forbes, Janet smith, Jessica L. Fink | |
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About the Delaware County Women’s Commission
Founded in 1985, the Delaware County Women’s Commission serves as an advisory board to Delaware County Council on issues impacting women and girls in our county. Appointed by County Council, the intent of the fifteen-member commission is to broadly mirror the rich diversity of the county. The Commission studies current issues faced by women and girls and seeks to foster solutions and serve as a catalyst for change.
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Sleep Tips from the Delaware County Health Department | |
A 'Kickstart Healthy Habits' Spring Series: Do You Get Enough Sleep? | |
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Sleep is vital to our physical and mental health and our overall well-being. Despite the importance of adequate sleep- many of us aren’t getting it! It’s estimated that 1 in 3 adults don’t get enough sleep.
Adults need 7 hours or more of sleep each night. Lack of sleep is linked to numerous chronic diseases and conditions, including Type 2 diabetes, heart disease, obesity, and depression.
Sleep is the body's time to repair and rejuvenate itself. In addition to reducing the risk for chronic diseases and health conditions, sufficient sleep enhances cognitive function, memory, and learning. It plays a crucial role in emotional regulation and stress management, making us more resilient to daily pressures. Proper sleep also supports a healthy immune system, making it easier for the body to fight off infections.
Tips for Good Sleep
- Remove electronic devices from the bedroom.
- Keep the bedroom quiet, dark, and at a comfortable temperature.
- Avoid large meals, caffeine, and alcohol before bedtime.
- Be active during the day to help you fall asleep at night.
- Go to bed and get up at the same time each day.
In a society that often celebrates busyness and constant connectivity, advocating for the importance of sleep is advocating for a healthier, more balanced life.
Get some sleep, Delco!
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Registration Now Open for Delaware County’s 3rd Annual Sustainability Conference | Delaware County seeking nominations for Sustainability Awards | |
Delaware County is hosting its 3rd Annual Sustainability Conference on Thursday, May 30, at Widener University, with a goal of inspiring, informing, and connecting local and regional sustainability experts, professionals, and everyday sustainability heroes.
With an expected attendance of over 300 people and more than 25 organizations, the conference, organized by the County’s Office of Sustainability, promises to be an engaging day of insightful presentations, networking, and collaboration. The focus of this year’s conference, “Sustainability in Action,” will help equip participants with the tools necessary to take action and advance sustainability and resilience in the face of a changing climate.
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.
This year’s conference will feature breakout sessions for the first time, allowing for deeper dives, additional interaction with presenters, and the option to pick sessions which best align with participants’ interests.
Seeking Nominations for the 3rd Annual Sustainability Awards!
During the conference, the Delaware County Office of Sustainability will present the 3rd Annual Sustainability Awards, recognizing exemplary individuals, organizations, and projects for their outstanding leadership in sustainability, decarbonization, and climate resilience.
There are five award categories:
- Decarbonization Leadership
- Sustainable Organization of the Year
- Sustainability Hero
- Sustainable Project of the Year
- Sustainability Rising Star
To submit a nomination, find the link at DelcoPA.Gov/Sustainability_Conference. Nominations are due Sunday, April 21 at 11:59 p.m.
Registration Details
Registration is free but mandatory. Secure your spot today at DelcoPA.Gov/SustainDelco2024.
We hope to see you there!
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Delaware County Council Shares Book Recommendations as Part of the County’s Women’s History Month Celebration | |
As part of Women’s History Month, Delaware County Council has partnered with Delaware County Libraries to share some of their favorite books, reflecting on the incredible historical contributions of women.
The readings highlight the remarkable achievements of women throughout history and underscore the critical importance of recognizing and understanding the diverse and pivotal roles women have played in shaping our world.
Women's History Month serves as a dedicated time to explore and celebrate the contributions, struggles, and successes of women across all spheres of life. It offers a valuable opportunity to delve into the rich tapestry of women's experiences, shedding light on the significant yet frequently underrepresented impacts they have made on society, politics, science, and the arts. By spotlighting these stories, Delaware County Council and Libraries hope to inspire residents of all ages to appreciate the depth and breadth of women’s roles in history.
As we celebrate Women’s History Month, let us all take this opportunity to broaden our understanding and appreciation of the myriad ways in which women, both past and present, have contributed to our collective history. Let their stories of struggle and success motivate us to continue the work towards achieving equality and justice for all.
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Shark Lady
Monica's selection, Shark Lady, by Jess Keating, tells the true story of how Eugenie Clark became the ocean's most fearless scientist.
Eugenie Clark devoted her life to learning about sharks. After earning several college degrees and making countless discoveries, Eugenie wrote herself into the history of science, earning the nickname "Shark Lady." Through her accomplishments, she taught the world that sharks were to be admired rather than feared and that women can do anything they set their minds to.
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Who Says Women Can’t be Doctors?
Christine’s selection, Who Says Women Can’t be Doctors?, by Tanya Lee Stone, tells the story of Elizabeth Blackwell, the first American female doctor. It describes the limited career prospects available to women in the early nineteenth-century, the opposition Blackwell faced while pursuing a medical education, and her pioneering medical career that opened doors for future generations of women.
Blackwell was inspired to study medicine by a dying friend who said her sufferings would have been easier if she had had a female doctor.
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Firekeeper’s Daughter and Warrior Girl Unearthed
Elaine’s selections are Firekeeper’s Daughter and Warrior Girl Unearthed, by Angeline Boulley, a member of the Sault [Sue] Saint Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians who writes contemporary novels about Indigenous people, particularly women and girls, of whom there are too few stories written by and about.
“I have been shaped by a network of strong Anishinaabe Kwewag (Native American women), who may be called auntie, friend, cousin, or Nokomis,” said Ms. Boulley. “We exist and have dynamic experiences to share beyond history books or stories set long ago.”
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Reminder: Free Mammogram Screenings Available at the Health Department Wellness Center at Yeadon | 99 out of 100 people survive breast cancer when it's detected early | |
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Reminder: The Delaware County Health Department and Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital are bringing breast cancer awareness and screening services back to Yeadon with free mammogram screenings in Yeadon.
Free Screening Details
Friday, April 5
Delaware County Wellness Center at Yeadon
125 Chester Ave., Yeadon, PA 19050
9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Appointments are limited, and registration is required for this screening opportunity.
To register for an appointment, call the Delaware County Wellness Line at (484) 276-2100, or request an appointment via email at DelcoWellness@co.delaware.pa.us.
Early detection significantly increases the chances of survival, with 99 out of 100 people surviving breast cancer when it's detected early. We encourage all eligible women to take utilize this opportunity for early detection. Together, we can make a significant impact on the health outcomes of our community.
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Last Chance! Take Our ‘Walk Roll Delco’ Map-based Survey to Identify Dangerous Areas and Barriers to Active Transportation | |
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Reminder: Delaware County Council and the Delaware County Planning Department are asking residents to take part in our map-based “Walk Roll Delco” survey that is helping us identify dangerous or insufficient roads, sidewalks, trails, and bridges that are a barrier to where they would like to walk, bike, or roll.
Results of this survey will contribute to the Vision Zero Action Plan and the Active Transportation Plan, which aim to create more walkable communities by improving safe and accessible transportation options for everyone, whether walking, biking, or using a vehicle.
The Walk Roll Delco Survey is open to all Delco residents and will remain active on the Planning Department website through March 31, 2024.
With only a few days until the survey deadline, we welcome your input!
How to Take the Walk Roll Delco Survey
To take the survey, visit DelcoPA.Gov/WRDSurvey and enter your suggestions.
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Reminder: Delaware County is Hiring! | |
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As a reminder, Delaware County is excited to host its first Career Fair of 2024 on Thurs, April 11, from 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m., at the Delaware County Intermediate Unit, located at 200 Yale Avenue, in Morton.
For more details about the career fair, a full listing of available positions, and to apply online, please visit our website at DelcoPA.Gov/Jobs. Even if you cannot attend the fair, we still encourage you to explore and apply for open positions online.
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