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The Delaware County Weekly
Bringing Delco news and information directly to our residents!
—— The December 27, 2024 (153rd Edition) ——
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Delaware County Council Wishes Everyone a Holiday Season of Peace, Joy, and Unity | |
As the year draws to a close, Delaware County Council extends its warmest wishes to all residents celebrating the holiday season. This time of year allows us to reflect, connect with loved ones, and embrace the traditions that make each holiday meaningful.
Whether you celebrated Christmas, have lit a menorah for Hanukkah, or are gathering around a kinara for Kwanzaa, we wish you peace, joy, and hope.
A Merry Christmas to All
Delaware County Council hopes everyone who celebrates Christmas enjoyed a day filled with love, laughter, and togetherness. While the holiday itself has passed, its spirit of giving and kindness remains a source of inspiration for us all.
Christmas is a time to celebrate the bonds of family and friendship, often marked by festive gatherings, decorated trees, and the warmth of sharing traditions both old and new. We hope your celebrations brought happiness and peace, and we wish you continued joy as we move into the new year.
Hanukkah: The Festival of Lights
Hanukkah, the eight-day Festival of Lights, began at sundown on December 25, and Delaware County Council extends heartfelt wishes to all who are celebrating.
Hanukkah is a time to reflect on hope, resilience, and the enduring spirit of the Jewish people. It commemorates the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem and the miracle of the oil that burned for eight days when it seemed it would last for only one.
Each evening, families light a candle on the menorah, symbolizing the miracle of light. Celebrations include shared meals of latkes and sufganiyot, the exchange of gifts, and games of dreidel. Hanukkah reminds us to cherish family, community, and the values that sustain us. Chag Sameach!
Kwanzaa: A Celebration of Unity
Delaware County Council extends warm wishes to all residents observing Kwanzaa, a week-long celebration that began on December 26 and continues through January 1.
Kwanzaa, created in 1966 by Dr. Maulana Karenga, honors African heritage in African-American culture and focuses on seven principles: Unity, Self-Determination, Collective Work and Responsibility, Cooperative Economics, Purpose, Creativity, and Faith.
Each day highlights one of these principles, with families and communities lighting candles on the kinara and engaging in meaningful discussions about heritage, responsibility, and hope. The celebration culminates in a joyful feast known as Karamu on December 31.
Wishing You Joy and Peace
During this holiday season, Delaware County Council celebrates the diversity of traditions that bring our community together. May the spirit of Christmas, the light of Hanukkah, and the unity of Kwanzaa fill your hearts with joy and hope for the year ahead.
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Honoring History: Lafayette Trail Marker Unveiled Prior to 300th Anniversary Celebration of the 1724 Chester Courthouse | |
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Delaware County Council and the Delaware County Planning Department joined Chester City Mayor Stefan Roots, Senator John Kane, Rep. Carol Kazeem, Chester City Councilmembers, residents, and students from Chester-Upland High School on December 11 for a historic celebration. Together with Julien Icher of Lafayette Trail, Inc., they unveiled a Lafayette Trail Marker then commemorated the 300th anniversary of the 1724 Chester Courthouse, the oldest public building in continuous use in the United States.
The Lafayette Trail Marker honors General Lafayette's visit to Chester on October 5, 1824, during his Farewell Tour of America. As part of a network of markers highlighting Lafayette’s contributions to American independence, the newest marker pays tribute to his legacy as a champion of liberty with an acknowledgment of Chester’s role in Revolutionary War history and its connection to Lafayette’s enduring impact.
Lafayette played a critical role in the American Revolution, serving as a key military leader and trusted ally of General George Washington. He was wounded during the Battle of Brandywine, just miles from Chester, and his bravery and strategic acumen earned him a revered place in the fight for independence. Decades later, President James Monroe invited Lafayette to tour the United States in 1824 to celebrate the nation’s 50th anniversary, cementing his legacy as a symbol of the enduring bond between France and America.
His visit to the 1724 Chester Courthouse during that tour further highlights the site’s historical significance and the pivotal moments it has witnessed in the birth of the nation.
“The inclusion of the Lafayette Trail Marker is a testament to the global significance of our local history,” said Council Member Elaine Paul Schaefer. “It honors both the enduring legacy of General Lafayette and the importance of preserving our shared heritage. The trail marker ensures that future visitors will gain a deeper understanding of Chester’s rich history and the pivotal events that unfolded here, shaping the birth and growth of our nation.”
Julien Icher, President of Lafayette Trail, Inc., traveled to Chester for the ceremony to unveil the new Lafayette Trail Marker, part of a growing network of over 100 markers across the United States. Supported by the William G. Pomeroy Foundation, these markers commemorate General Lafayette’s role in the American Revolution and highlight his enduring impact on American history.
“This marker, along with the others across the country, tells the story of Lafayette’s remarkable contributions to the Revolution,” said Icher. “Thanks to the support of the William G. Pomeroy Foundation, we are using these markers to ensure that the American people recognize Lafayette’s pivotal role in securing independence and shaping American democracy. Each marker represents a chapter in a larger narrative that binds France and the United States through shared ideals of liberty and justice.”
| Chester City Mayor Stefan Roots, Lafayette Trail Inc. President Julien Icher, Senator John Kane, Representative Carol Kazeem, and Chester Councilwoman Tameka Gibson unveil the Lafayette Trail marker outside Chester City Hall. | Delaware County Council Members Christine Reuther and Elaine Paul Schaefer joined Delaware County Sheriff Jerry L. Sanders, Jr. and other officials to hear Julien Icher’s historical insights regarding the impact of General Lafayette on our young nation. | |
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Celebrating Lafayette and the 300th Anniversary of the Chester Courthouse
After the unveiling of the Lafayette Trail Marker, attendees commemorated another significant milestone—the 300th anniversary of the 1724 Chester Courthouse.
Built in 1724, the Chester Courthouse initially served as the County's courthouse for Chester County and later for Delaware County, before becoming Chester City Hall. Within its historic walls, early American ideals of justice and democracy were shaped, and pivotal moments were witnessed, including the public reading of the Declaration of Independence on July 8, 1776.
“It’s rare in this country to reach 300 years, and it’s worthy of celebration,” said Gina Burritt, Director of the Delaware County Planning Department. “This milestone reflects not just the rich history of this courthouse but also the dedication of so many people who have worked tirelessly to preserve it. I want to thank Chester City officials and the Chester Public Works Department for their invaluable contributions, as well as my team, particularly Kate Clifford, for their leadership and commitment. This achievement was made possible by the support of local and state officials and the many advocates within the historical community.”
The courthouse’s tricentennial celebration also highlighted the preservation efforts that have safeguarded its history. Thanks to a $523,000 National Park Service grant, significant renovations are in the process of being made, including restoring the exterior stonework, replacing windows, updating second-floor walls and floors, modernizing building systems, and adding updated bathrooms and a kitchenette. These improvements will ensure the courthouse remains a vital part of the community for generations to come.
The ceremony also featured letters from Governor Josh Shapiro and Congresswoman Mary Gay Scanlon, who could not attend but sent heartfelt messages recognizing the 300th anniversary of the courthouse. Their letters, read aloud during the event, emphasized the historical importance of the courthouse and the ongoing efforts to preserve its legacy.
“This courthouse is more than just a historical site; it is a living monument to the strength and spirit of our community,” said Council Member Christine Reuther. “It is a tangible reminder of the principles that shaped our nation and a beacon for future generations.”
By the time of the semiquincentennial, celebrating the country’s 250th anniversary in 2026, renovations to the courthouse will be completed, and the building will reopen as a historic site and museum. Visitors will have the opportunity to explore Delaware County’s rich heritage and appreciate the enduring legacy of this 300-year-old structure.
The Lafayette Trail Marker and the courthouse’s tricentennial celebration serve as lasting reminders of the history, resilience, and civic pride of the Chester community.
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Delaware County Planning Director Gina Burritt thanks the numerous stakeholders and supporters who have contributed to the County's ongoing preservation efforts to ready the Courthouse for the 2026 U.S. Semiquincentennial | |
Delaware County presented a resolution commending and celebrating the 300th Anniversary of the 1724 Chester Courthouse. | |
It's not a 300th birthday party without a celebratory banner! | |
Fair Acres Recognized as one of “America's Best Nursing Homes” by Newsweek | |
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Delaware County’s Fair Acres Geriatric Center, owned and operated by the County of Delaware, has been named one of “America’s Best Nursing Homes for 2025” by Newsweek.
“This achievement is a direct reflection of the commitment and hard work of our entire team,” said Fair Acres Administrator Bill D’Amico. “Every day, our staff demonstrates professionalism, compassion, and dedication to the residents we serve. I’m incredibly proud of their efforts and of the facility’s continued success in delivering high-quality care.”
“This recognition from Newsweek is highly deserved and highlights the outstanding care and compassion that Fair Acres provides to our community every single day,” said Delaware County Council Member Elaine Paul Schaefer.
Out of 14,858 nursing homes analyzed across the country, Newsweek selected the top 1,050 for recognition. Performance data, peer recommendations, facility accreditations, and resident satisfaction were considered, with Fair Acres ranking 31st among Pennsylvania nursing homes.
Located in Lima, Fair Acres is the largest skilled nursing facility in Delaware County, accommodating up to 774 residents at any given time. With over 200 years of service, Fair Acres continues to uphold a legacy of providing high-quality care to the residents of Delaware County, offering both long-term care for adults in need of 24-hour nursing and short-term rehabilitation stays.
A New Legacy of Excellence
For three consecutive years, Fair Acres has received a prestigious five-star rating from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. Additionally, the facility achieved citation-free surveys from the Pennsylvania Department of Health in both 2023 and 2024. These accolades reflect the dedication and professionalism of the Fair Acres staff, whose compassionate care ensures residents thrive in a supportive and comfortable environment.
Recent Renovations Bring Modern Updates
In March, Fair Acres unveiled a $13 million renovation of the top three floors of Building 8. The project included significant updates to enhance the facility for residents and staff. Improvements included new heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems, call bells, televisions, electric beds, and upgraded fire alarm and sprinkler systems. Additional renovations encompassed flooring, wainscoting, handrails, doors, plumbing, fixtures, lighting, furniture, and pull curtains.
“Seeing the newly renovated floors come to life has been especially rewarding, as they provide an updated, welcoming environment that enhances the comfort and experience of our residents,” said Administrator Bill D’Amico.
| Fair Acres Director Bill D'Amico and Delaware County Public Works Director Danielle Floyd are joined by Delaware County Council, elected officials, and Fair Acres staff for a ceremonial ribbon cutting marking the opening of the renovated floors. | The renovation also added 110 newly upgraded beds, creating more comfortable living spaces for residents. Three new elevators were installed to serve the entire building, improving accessibility. An enclosed patio off the day room on the 11th floor provides residents with stunning views of Delaware County, offering a peaceful retreat for relaxation and connection. | |
Plans for the Future
Fair Acres is looking to expand its services further, with plans to open a four-bed hospice center in early 2025. This addition will provide specialized end-of-life care, emphasizing comfort and dignity for residents and their families. The County is also exploring options for developing a Senior Living independent housing portion on the campus. While still in the early stages, this project may include homes, apartments, or condominiums designed to meet the needs of seniors seeking independent living.
A Center for Learning and Care
Beyond its role as a care facility, Fair Acres serves as a geriatric training site for local colleges, universities, and nursing schools. This commitment to education ensures that future generations of healthcare professionals are equipped with the skills and compassion necessary to deliver exceptional care.
With approximately 750 employees, Fair Acres remains a vital part of the Delaware County community, providing essential long-term and short-term care while continually enhancing its facilities and services.
For more information about Fair Acres, including enrollment requirements, visit the Fair Acres website.
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Delaware County Conservation District Leads Restoration of Stoney Creek Riparian Zone with 170 Trees and Shrubs | |
The Delaware County Conservation District (DCCD), led by Director Karen Wilwol, spearheaded an impactful restoration project at Moore’s Lake Park, also known as The Hollow, in Prospect Park earlier this winter. This large-scale planting effort, conducted in collaboration with the Borough of Prospect Park and the Darby Creek Valley Association (DCVA), successfully enhanced the riparian zone of Stoney Creek with 170 newly planted trees and shrubs.
“This project demonstrates the impact we can achieve when volunteers, municipalities, and organizations work together,” said Karen Wilwol, Director of DCCD. “Healthy riparian zones play a vital role in protecting our waterways and ensuring a resilient natural environment for future generations.”
The initiative, supported by the Keystone 10 Million Trees Partnership, aligns with a broader statewide goal to plant 10 million trees across Pennsylvania by 2025. The mix of tree and shrub species selected for the project was carefully chosen to filter runoff, stabilize streambanks, and enhance aquatic habitats in the impaired waters of Stoney Creek.
Chris Cook, a Prospect Park resident and DCCD’s Watershed Specialist, played a key role in the planning and execution of the project. “As a longtime resident in this community, it’s incredibly rewarding to contribute to the restoration of Stoney Creek,” said Cook. “These trees and shrubs will not only improve water quality but also create a greener, more vibrant space for all of us to enjoy.”
Ultimately, more than 40 volunteers from around the community gathered to plant saplings during the event held last month. Using tools provided by DCCD through a collaboration with the Southeastern PA Resource Conservation and Development Council, the group planted all 170 saplings in just three hours, ensuring they were watered and mulched to thrive in their new environment.
“Riparian buffers like the one restored here are one of the most effective tools we have for improving water quality and protecting our waterways,” said Delaware County Council Member Elaine Paul Schaefer. “By filtering pollutants from runoff, reducing sedimentation, and creating critical habitat for wildlife, this project ensures that Stoney Creek will be healthier and more resilient for decades to come.”
The restoration effort is part of DCCD’s mission to protect and restore natural resources across Delaware County. DCCD works with landowners, municipalities, volunteers, and community organizations to provide technical assistance and implement conservation practices that benefit both the environment and local communities.
“Projects like this highlight the strength in grassroots partnerships,” added Cook. “Despite the absence of an Environmental Advisory Council or a Shade Tree Commission in Prospect Park Borough, Councilman Paul K. Johnson was committed to partnering with DCCD, and I want to extend DCCD’s appreciation for his involvement, and DCVA’s Operations Manager Kyle Gaumann who also played a critical role in the success of the project by promoting the initiative and providing volunteer support.”
This project not only restores ecological balance to Stoney Creek but also underscores the importance of preserving natural spaces for recreation, education, and environmental resilience. It reflects the community’s commitment to safeguarding local ecosystems for generations to come.
With the successful planting of the new riparian buffer, Stoney Creek is poised to benefit from improved water quality, reduced erosion, and increased habitat value for local wildlife.
| Volunteers with their families and friends planting native trees and shrubs. | Young trees and shrubs planted along the creek with protective tubes to prevent damage from deer, rodents, birds, and lawn mowers. Tubes will be removed once the plants are mature. | A section planted with native trees and shrubs after invasive species were controlled. | |
About the Delaware County Conservation District
The mission of the Delaware County Conservation District is to ensure the wise use of natural resources and to protect and restore the environment through the conservation of soil, water, and related resources. Operating as a political subdivision of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, the District works closely with landowners and land users to provide tools and technical assistance that support sustainable land and water management. For more information, visit delcocd.org.
About the Darby Creek Valley Association
Darby Creek Valley Association is a nonprofit watershed organization dedicated to protecting and enhancing the Darby Creek watershed and its resources. Through education, restoration, monitoring, and advocacy, DCVA strives to preserve water quality, wildlife, and historical sites throughout the watershed. Learn more at dcva.org.
To learn more about the Keystone 10 Million Trees Partnership and how to get involved, visit tenmilliontrees.org.
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Delaware County Council thanks DCCD Director Karen Wilwol, Watershed Specialist Chris Cook, Borough Councilman Paul K. Johnson, and the more than 40 local residents who contributed their time and energy into this amazing planting effort. | |
Reminder: License Your Dog in Delaware County Today! | |
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Delaware County dog owners, it’s time to ensure your furry friend is properly licensed. A dog license is more than a legal requirement in Pennsylvania—it’s a critical step to protecting your pet and ensuring they can be returned home quickly if lost.
Here’s everything you need to know about licensing your dog in Delaware County.
Why License Your Dog?
A dog license serves as your pet’s identification and can make all the difference in reuniting you with your dog if they are lost. Additionally, licensing helps support animal protection efforts in our community.
"Licensing your dog is one of the simplest ways to ensure their safety and well-being,” said James Hackett of the Delaware County Treasurer's Office. “It’s about being a responsible pet owner and giving your furry family member the protection they deserve."
Dog licenses are available as annual or lifetime options.
Annual License Fees for 2025:
- Male or Female Dog: $8.70
- Senior Citizen/Person with Disability Fee: $6.70
Lifetime License Fees:
- Male or Female Dog: $52.70
- Senior Citizen/Person with Disability Fee: $36.70
Note: Lifetime licenses require dogs to be microchipped or tattooed and must be purchased directly through the Treasurer’s Office.
How to License Your Dog
The process is simple:
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Annual Licenses can be purchased online, by mail, or in person at the Delaware County Treasurer’s Office. Online purchases: Visit padoglicense.com (a $2.00 processing fee applies).
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Lifetime Licenses require: A completed application and a Permanent Identification Verification Form signed by your veterinarian. For assistance, contact the Treasurer’s Office at (610) 891-4276 or email for guidance.
Lost Tags or Transfers
If your dog’s tag is lost, a duplicate can be requested for $1.70. Transferring ownership? Simply follow the necessary steps and include written permission from the current owner when required.
Special Discounts
Senior citizens (65+) and residents with disabilities can benefit from discounted license fees. Proof of age or disability is required when applying.
Take Action Today
Don’t wait—protect your pet by licensing them today. Visit the Delaware County Treasurer’s Office or apply online. Your dog’s safety starts with their official license tag.
For additional information, including downloadable forms and instructions, visit the Dog Licensing page.
Delaware County Treasurer’s Office Contact Information
Phone: (610) 891-4276
Website: https://delcopa.gov/treasurer/dog.html
Your best friend deserves the best care—make their license a priority!
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Final Week! The Festival of Lights Runs Nightly Through Jan. 4 | |
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Delaware County’s beloved Festival of Lights continues through January 4 at Rose Tree Park, offering a magical escape from the winter chill—but for just one more week!
This annual tradition has brightened the holiday season for more than 40 years, transforming the park into a sparkling wonderland with dozens of illuminated trees and vibrant light displays.
Perfect for families, friends, or a romantic evening stroll, the Festival of Lights is open nightly from dusk to 10:00 p.m.
Admission and parking are free, and the display is fully walkable. Friendly, leashed dogs are welcome, and handicapped parking is available for those who need it. Please note that the park's playground closes at 4:30 p.m. daily.
Don’t miss your chance to experience this cherished Delco tradition before it wraps up for the season. Bundle up, grab your loved ones, and visit Rose Tree Park to create memories that will warm your heart all winter long.
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Delaware County Council and Visit Delco, PA Encourage Residents to Chill Out this Winter Season! | |
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Delaware County Council and Visit Delco, PA invite you to embrace the winter season in all its glory. Winter in Delco is the perfect time to embark on new adventures and create lasting memories. From exhilarating outdoor activities to cozy indoor retreats, there's something for every winter enthusiast. Picture yourself trekking through sparkling snow trails, or perhaps enjoying the warmth of a local café while savoring seasonal treats.
It's the season for winter wonderland fun, from enjoying a winter pastime, to participating in cultural experiences, or simply unwinding in serene, snowy settings. Visit Delco, PA is your gateway to a winter filled with enchantment and excitement, offering a multitude of options to ensure that your colder months are packed with joy and discovery.
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Take a Hike.
There's nothing like the crisp crunch of snow or frosty grass underfoot and the bite of cold air on your face to make you truly feel alive. In the winter, Delaware County's many trails offer serene landscapes of stark beauty and tranquility—and a perfect opportunity for solitude and a deeper connection with nature in its restful state!
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For more ideas about how to enjoy Delaware County this winter, check out Visit Delco, PA’s Chill Out in Delco web page. Visit Delco, PA’s website has great information about where to stay, what to do, and more in Delaware County. | | | | |
