This publication is an effort to keep the community informed with what is actually happening in your area. For future editions, I welcome your thoughts on topics that affect the community I'd be happy to publish your opinions on any relevant topics.
Do you have an event that you'd like to publicize? Let me know , and I'll do my best to incorporate your event into the newsletter.
This is your community. This is your home. Use this publication to share your thoughts and ideas with your neighbors. Are you ready to get involved in your community?
Bon Air Fire Company 541 Royal Avenue Havertown, PA 19083 610-446-6008
Brookline Fire Company 1315 Darby Road Havertown, PA 19083 610-446-9955
Llanerch Fire Company 107 West Chester Pike Havertown, PA 19083 610-446-9870
Manoa Fire Company 115 S. Eagle Road Havertown, PA 19083 610-446-0744
Oakmont Fire Company 23 W. Benedict Avenue Havertown, PA 19083 610-446-9837
Grange Estate
143 Myrtle Avenue Havertown, PA 19083 610-446-4958
www.thegrangeestate.org
1601 Darby Road Havertown, PA 19083 610-446-3082
www.haverfordlibrary.org
50 East Eagle Road Havertown, PA 19083 610-853-5900
www.haverford.k12.pa.us
HAVERFORD TOWNSHIP FREE LIBRARY HAVERFORD TOWNSHIP SCHOOL DISTRICT MAIN LINE ART CENTER
746 Panmure Road Havertford, PA 19041 610-525-0272 www.mainlineart.org
Library is Now Open at: 1601 Darby Road Havertown, PA 19083
The Haverford Township Free Library is thrilled to welcome you back to the Library in our newly renovated and expanded space. Stop in to see the Living Room Reading Area, Maker Space, Gaming Area, Laptop Tech Zones and so much more!
Visit the circulation desk or our website at www.haverfordlibrary.org to view all of our events, especially our Summer Reading programs for children and adults.
The Next Chapter for Every Generation Capital Campaign still has naming opportunities available!
Visit www.haverfordlibrary.org/capital-campaign to support this state-of-the-art facility.
Library Hours
Monday ..........................10am - 9pm
Tuesday ..........................10am - 9pm
- 9pm
- 6pm Friday..............................10am - 5pm Saturday .........................10am - 5pm Sunday............................1pm - 5pm* *(Closed Sundays July 1 - August 31)
Home • Life
Now Open! Metropolitan Veterinary Urgent Care and Specialty (MVUCS)
Metropolitan Veterinary Associates (MVA) is thrilled to announce the opening of our first Urgent Care and Specialty center. MVUCS is designed to better serve our pet owning community by focusing on urgent care cases, conditions that require prompt attention but are not immediately life-threatening. While the main MVA location continues to serve as the destination for critical emergency care cases, this expansion ensures that pets receive the care they need when they need it, without long waits or unnecessary stress.
Providing the same trusted, compassionate care you've come to expect from MVA, our highly skilled veterinary team at MVUCS are the same emergency doctors you would see if your pet needed emergency care at MVA. With our streamlined approach, we'll minimize time apart from your pet, addressing urgent issues quickly and effectively
Our brand-new, state-of-the-art facility isn't just about urgent care it's also home to advanced veterinary specialty services. MVUCS brings MVA's board-certified specialists closer to you, with experts in Cardiology, Radiology, and specialty Surgery, to provide the highest level of care (Please call for availability). Whether it's urgent care or specialty consultations, we're here to support your pet's health every step of the way
We can't wait to welcome you and your pets to Metropolitan Urgent Care and Specialty Services, where
we're expanding access to the exceptional care your pets deserve. Our urgent care services will be available from 2:00 pm to 12:00 am 7 days a week, 365 days of the year
Choosing the Right Care:
Urgent Care vs Emergency Cases
When a pet needs medical attention, it's important to quickly determine whether the situation can be handled through Urgent Care or if it requires immediate escalation to the MVA Emergency Team. Urgent Care cases are typically non-lifethreatening conditions that still need prompt attention, while MVA Emergency cases involve more serious, life-threatening situations that demand rapid intervention and hospitalization.
The lists below outline common conditions seen in each category to help guide decisions and ensure pets receive the appropriate level of care.
Urgent Care (MVUCS)
Anal gland issues
Back pain
Coughing or sneezing
Ear infection
Facial swelling
Fever
Frequent or urgent urination (+/blood in the urine)
Intestinal parasites
Itching, skin rashes
Lameness or limping
Loss of appetite
Lumps and bumps
Mild constipation
Minor bite wounds, lacerations
Ocular discharge or squinting
Post-operative incision issues
Single seizure event
Skin abscesses
Torn or bleeding nail
Upper respiratory tract infection
Vomiting or diarrhea
Vaccine or allergic reactions with facial swelling or hives
Emergency/Critical Care (MVA)
Anemia
Difficulty or labored breathing
Heat stroke
Kidney failure
Euthanasia
Multiple seizures (clusters)
Pneumonia
Severe bite wounds or lacerations
Severe lethargy
Sudden collapse
Most Toxins
Unproductively straining to urinate
Vehicular trauma (hit by car)
MVUCS is located at 997 Old Eagle School Road in Wayne, PA.
For more information please visit: www.metro-vet.com
HEALTH & WELLNESS
Leading the Way in Lung Cancer Treatment
Lung cancer is by far the leading cause of cancer death in the U.S., accounting for about one in five cancer deaths. Each year, more people die of lung cancer than of colon, breast and prostate cancers combined. But there are new options in lung cancer surgery being pioneered by Main Line Health specialists.
At the forefront of these innovations is Patrick Ross, MD, PhD, a nationally recognized thoracic surgeon specializing in robot-assisted treatment of chest cancers. Dr. Ross is one of a select group of experts chosen to evaluate the latest breakthrough in minimally invasive surgery: single-port robotic thoracic surgery
Minimally Invasive Robotic Techniques for Thoracic Surgery
“As someone who's done thoracic surgery for more than 30 years, I'm in awe of how far we've come,” says Dr. Ross. “We once had to create large incisions and spread the ribs to get to a tumor. Robotic surgery established the value of minimally invasive thoracic surgery. Now, we can use a robotic bronchoscope to detect and evaluate tumors, then reach the tumor through a 3centimeter incision that enters the chest below rather than between the ribs, and safely remove part of the lung — with the patient going home the next day. That's like Star Wars for thoracic surgeons.”
Dr. Ross and his team began performing single-port robotic thoracic surgery in November 2024. Since then, they have successfully removed lung tumors in both diagnosed patients and those with previously undetected cancer, with minimal complications. Most patients are discharged the very next day.
“Even our delightful 82-year-old was discharged the morning after her operation,” Dr. Ross says. “It truly has had a significant impact.”
Reducing Pain and Risks in Lung Cancer Treatment
Patients undergoing single-port robotic thoracic surgery have only one 3-cm to 4cm incision below the ribs, resulting in less postoperative pain, lower risk of nerve injury and quicker return to normal life or additional cancer treatment, Dr. Ross explains.
“When we combine single-port robotic thoracic surgery with robotic bronchoscopy, we can find and remove the tumor in a single operation, with only one anesthesia,” Dr. Ross adds. “Robotic bronchoscopy was a game-changer because it enabled us to locate and diagnose even the tiniest and most difficult-to-reach tumors. Now we can remove them with less risk and trauma to the patient. This technology is changing the outlook on lung cancer in a dramatic way.”
The importance of Lung Cancer Screening Low-dose CT lung cancer screenings are finding tumors earlier, when they are more treatable. If you are a current or former smoker, you may be eligible for this screening. A physician's prescription is required, so talk with your doctor if you are interested in getting screened. Once you have a prescription in hand, you can schedule a screening. At Main Line Health, we offer numerous lung cancer screening locations throughout the region.
Lung cancer screening is often covered by insurance. Check with your insurance company to see if lung cancer screening is covered by your plan.
Most lung cancers are caused by smoking, but not all. Your risk also increases if you have had long-term exposure to secondhand smoke, radon gas, asbestos and other cancer-causing substances. Lung cancer also runs in families so you may be more susceptible if you have a mother, father, sibling or close relative who has or had the disease.
While there are known risk factors for lung cancer, there are people who get the disease who never smoked or had extended exposure to smoke in their lives. It's important to see your primary care clinician regularly and be mindful of symptoms including chest pain, difficulty breathing, hoarseness and coughing up blood.
Changing the Future of Lung Cancer Care Advancements like single-port robotic surgery and robotic bronchoscopy enable Main Line Health to provide safer surgeries, faster recoveries and better outcomes, even when it comes to lung cancer.
For more information on lung cancer care at Main Line Health, visit mainlinehealth.org/lungcancertreatments
Patrick Ross Jr., MD, Thoracic Surgeon and Chair of Surgery at Main Line Health.
® FINANCIAL FOCUS
Work Toward Your Own Financial Independence Day
We're getting close to the Fourth of July, our national Independence Day. This celebration may get you thinking of the many freedoms you enjoy. But have you thought of what you might need to do to attain financial freedom?
Your first step is to define what financial independence signifies to you. For many people, it means being able to retire when they want to, and to enjoy a comfortable retirement lifestyle. So, if this is your vision as well, consider taking these steps:
• Pay yourself first. If you wait until you have some extra money “lying around” before you invest for retirement, you may never get around to doing it. Instead, pay yourself first. This actually is not that hard to do, especially if you have a 401(k) or other employer-sponsored retirement plan, because your contributions are taken directly from your paycheck, before you even have the chance to spend the money. You can set up a similar arrangement with an IRA by having automatic contributions taken directly from your checking or savings account.
• Invest appropriately. Your investment decisions should be guided by your retirement goals, along with how long you have before you need the money and how comfortable you are with different levels of investment risk. If you deviate from these guideposts — for instance, by taking on either too much or too little risk — you may end up making decisions that aren't right for you and that may set you back as you pursue your financial independence.
• Avoid financial “potholes.” The road to financial liberty will always be marked with potholes you should avoid. One such pothole is debt — the higher your debt burden, the less you can invest for your retirement. It's not always easy to lower your debt load, but do the best you can to live within your means. A second pothole comes in the form of large, unexpected short-term costs, such as a major home or auto repair or a medical bill not fully covered by insurance. To avoid dipping into your long-term investments to pay for these short-term costs, try to build an emergency fund containing three to six months’ worth of living expenses, with the money kept in a liquid, low-risk account.
• Give yourself some wiggle room. If you decide that to achieve financial independence, you must retire at 62 or you
must buy a vacation home by the beach, you may feel disappointed if you fall short of these goals. But if you're prepared to accept some flexibility in your plans — perhaps you can work until 65 or just rent a vacation home for the summer — you may be able to earn a different, but still acceptable, financial freedom. And by working a couple of extra years or paying less for your vacation home expenses, you may also improve your overall financial picture.
Putting these and other moves to work can help you keep moving toward your important goals. When you eventually reach your own “Financial Independence Day,” it may not warrant a fireworks display — but it should certainly add some sparkle to your life.
This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor.
WILLOWS PARK PRESERVE
Open Door Policy at The Willows Mansion
Ring a doorbell? — Not necessary.
Knock on the door? — Not necessary.
Schedule an appointment to stop by? — Not necessary.
The Willows Mansion has an “open door policy,” and by that we mean that the door is open. Literally. Just turn the handle, pull, and you are in. No advance reservation needed. No entrance fee. Just come on in with your cup of coffee, a muffin and a good book, plant yourself on the sofa in the wood-paneled library or on a bench on the flagstone terrace overlooking the pond, and relax. Make yourself at home. You ARE at home.
The Willows Mansion, located at the top of the hill in The Willows Park on Darby-Paoli Road, Villanova, has been owned by Radnor Township since 1973. For almost four decades the Township operated the mansion as a venue for revenue-generating private events such as weddings, graduation parties and a much-loved holiday craft show. Many, perhaps even most, long-time Radnor residents have fond memories of attending one or more of these events at the Mansion. Sadly, in 2013, the Township closed down the Mansion due to the high cost of maintaining the large, aging building. The Mansion stood empty and idle for several years until 2019, when the Township entered into a 25-year lease with the WPP, a newly-formed 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, to restore the Mansion, use the premises for community-based programs and fundraising events and support the preservation of the premises as a historic, community resource.
Since that time, the WPP has made remarkable progress in its efforts to restore the Mansion, starting with replacement of the Mansion's roof and restoration of its original dormers. More recently, the WPP has upgraded two restrooms and added a third, renovated the kitchen to meet commercial standards, repainted the Mansion's exterior, restored the Mansion's fountain wall, installed a new HVAC system, water line and fire suppression system and
expanded the flagstone terrace, among other things. As for community programs and events, the WPP has hosted several Holiday Open Houses, Valentine's Day “Love and Chocolate” events, “Wellness at the Willows” events and summer Concerts in the Courtyard, in addition to numerous classes and lectures on a range of topics. Of course, none of these improvements and programs would have been possible without the support of generous donors and sponsors, dedicated volunteers, a state grant and Radnor Township.
The WPP is justly proud of its restoration and community programming accomplishments over the past few years, but there is one accomplishment the WPP is especially proud of: It opened the door.
Before Radnor Township acquired the Mansion, the prior owners, Alfred and Mary Zantzinger, often entertained guests at their home. A cheerful, pink and white, carved Mexican gate bore a sign that said “Paseustedpor favor. Esta es su casa.” (Please come in. This is your house.) The WPP has tried to recapture that welcoming spirit. During weekdays, unless a special event or program has been scheduled (e.g., a local business's office retreat, a civic organization's meeting or a garden club luncheon), the door to the Mansion is open. Any member of the community may enter and enjoy the beautiful interior and exterior terraces of this historic building that dates to 1910 and was built by the prominent Philadelphia architect Charles Barton. Charming wooden signs at the base of the Mansion's driveway and on the Mansion's door indicate whether the Mansion is open for drop-by visitors. Most days and most times it is. And most visitors will likely find themselves warmly welcomed by the WPP's Executive Director, Will Nord, who has the good fortune of working from an office on the Mansion's second floor, overlooking the Mansion's courtyard and its intriguing fountain wall. Ask him about the history of the Mansion and its fascinating architectural features and he will have the answer
Although the Mansion was used or visited by many Radnor residents over the four decades during which it was operated by the Township, the Mansion was never open for casual, unscheduled drop-in visits. Except during scheduled events, the doors were closed. This practice was no different from the practices at other publicly-owned venues in the area, such as Appleford (owned by Lower Merion Township), Hilltop House (owned by Newtown Township) and Waynesborough (owned by Easttown Township). Even today, these other historic mansions are open only during scheduled events for invited guests. In this regard, the Willows Mansion is unique.
The WPP encourages all members of our community to stop by and enjoy the Mansion, the crown jewel of the Willows Park. Sign up for a community program, book the Mansion for a private event, large or small, or just stop by to enjoy this
If you would like to host your next event at the WPP, register for a program, learn about volunteer opportunities, provide financial support, or simply want to learn more about the WPP, please visit our website: www.willowsparkpreserve.org or email us at: info@willowsparkpreserve.org
SOLARIZE FOR THE ENVIRONMENT Ready to Stop Climate Change?
Battle climate change and get pay back in both cash and the satisfaction of knowing that you and thousands of your neighbors, businesses and Towns throughout the Delaware Valley are getting the job done! Some steps require no investment and some do. ALL can save you money. Web sites like https://haverfordclimateaction.org provide a one-stop shop for information on things you can do, upcoming webinars, videos and more. The biggest savings in energy is to use less; please consider an energy assessment if you have not had one done. Peco offers this for $49. For a limited time, PECO is offering Solarize Delco participants a special $10 discount for any home energy assessment. Please use the special promo code SOLARDEL25 on the website or call 888.573.2672 to schedule your appointment. Expires Dec 31, 2025
Solar the Easy Way
Solar PV Tax Credits NOW:
Home solar tax credits are 30% for 2025 but who knows what the future will bring. Nonprofits can now also get a direct 30% federal rebate for installed solar systems. PECO offers solar rebates: $500 for residential and first year production based for commercial. Grants and low cost leases are available for income eligible households. We are now evaluating for 2025.
Solarize DelCo Group Pricing:
Residents, non-profits and businesses in Delaware County Email us at solarizedelco@gmail.com with name, address and phone number and we can help you assess whether the Solarize Delco program with vetted vendors and a significant discount over market rates is right for you.
Low Income Grants and Leasing
Options: Income qualified homeowners can apply for a grant (up to $5,000) while funds last or take advantage of our partnership with a vetted leasing firm that can reduce monthly bills by a combination of Solar PV and weatherization. Solarize Delco can help you decide what is best for you.
Who are we? Your neighbors, an all volunteer non-profit providing education, unbiased information and an easier path to putting solar on your home, business or house of worship. We can help Houses of Worship and other non-profits find sources of funding as well. More info at www.solarizedelco.org. Search Solarize Philly and Solarize SE PA for programs outside of DelCo.
Ready to Solarize Now?
In Delaware County, PA — fill out a form on www.solarizedelco.org or Email us at solarizedelco@gmail.com with your name,
address and phone number and we can help you assess whether the Solarize Delco program with a selected vendor and a significant discount over market rates is right for you. In Bucks, Chester, and Montgomery County - Email solarizesepa@gmail.com
Are Tax Credits Gone? No!
Solar, EV, Heat Pump and Home energy efficiency tax credits are baked in to this year's tax code- but future changes are in the hands of Congress. Success in fighting climate change has always required consumers to buy lower carbon options and that will not change. The costs of power and regular cars are headed higher than ever. Solar and Electric Vehicle costs are lower than ever and will save you thousands of dollars over the life of their use. There is no time like the present to take action and claim your tax credits!
Climate Webinar Series Videos
Watch these informative recorded Climate Action Workshops on Solar Home, adapting to Electric Vehicle use, Purchasing Renewable Energy, and others at https://www.youtube.com/@haverfordeac.
The Clean Energy Co-Op can help businesses and nonprofits go solar through education and solar development with the capital of local Co-op members. Contact info@cleanenergy.coop to learn more.
ENVIRONMENTALLY RESPONSIBLE
Zero Waste and Composting Food Waste
There are two public bins for small E-waste recycling drop off 24/7 at the Township building on the lower parking lot between Wawa and the Police station and one at the Community Recreation and Environmental Center (CREC). Recycling Beyond the Blue Bin bin's Oral Care Recycling Programand Bread Bag Tag Bin are located at the Township building, near the upper lot to the right of the Township building's front doors. A new *LED Recycling* bin has been added next to oral care. Medicine and Sharp's Disposal is located in the Police Station Lobby. Beauty/Personal Care Collection has been discontinued. Most items are accepted at local Nordstrom or Sephora stores.
Contact Havswitch@gmail.com for a PDF about recycling “beyond the blue bin” through our volunteer based Terracycle programs. Please follow directions on what is accepted in each program. Make sure packaging is as clean and dry as possible! We have drop off locations for Brita filters, food pouches and caps, foil lined chip bags, scrap metal and more! Thanks for keeping these items out of our trash stream, local landfills and incinerators.
Contact Havcompost@gmail.com for information about training and videos and how you can try it at home. Learn about wasting less, fighting climate change and making free organic fertilizer! Learn how Haverford Township offers Discount Compost Bins, FOUR months free composting service pick ups and are introducing a public drop off option at Merry place.
Haverford Township’s BREAD BAG TAG COLLECTION
Haverford Township Admin. Bulding 1014 Darby Rd., Haverford, PA 19083
The Township is now collecting bread bag tags! These tags are located on bread, muffin, fruit, hamburger bun, hot dog bun, and vegetable bags, among others. Haverford will be sending the collected bread tags to Danielle Cares for Chairs, a non-profit that brings the plastic tags to be recycled and uses the proceeds from the recycler to purchase mobility products like wheelchairs for people in need. Start collecting today and plan to bring your bread tags to the township! The blue collection tube will be located just outside the front doors of the township building, near the personal care and oral care collection bins. Danielle cares for chairs is committed to taking products that would normally be thrown away, recycling or redesigning them, and ultimately using them to improve our standard of living. We are excited to support this mission here in Haverford!
June 14, 9a-12p — Helpsy Clothing Drive (clean but unwearable OK)
June 17, AGZA Electric Lawn Equipment Workshop Register HERE: https://www.lowermerion.org/departments/sustainability/energytransition/electric-lawn-equipment
June 17, 6p-7:30p— Watershed Education/Rain Barrel Workshop
Aug 13,7p — Recycling Workshop, {virtual} Aug 23, Haverford Paper Event
Parks and Trails — Looking to make a meaningful impact in your community? Come get your hands dirty with us as we care for green spaces, plant trees, and remove invasive species. Together, we'll help maintain vibrant, healthy ecosystems in our parks! No experience needed — just bring your enthusiasm and love for nature! All tools and supplies provided. Let's make a difference together! Register—Waiver—Donate!
PRC's Traveling Glass Bin:
Back by popular demand!
The Traveling Glass Bin has been moved PERMANENTLY to the Reserve, on the upper lot near the dog park! 9000 Parkview Dr, Haverford. PA communities and businesses can ensure that glass is recycled by supporting expansion of glass drop-off collection sites in our region. PRC continues to pursue this goal with the support of PA residents who utilize these sites and collection events for their recycling needs.
Rain gardens, downspout planters and rain barrels can help you harvest your stormwater, reduce runoff and the resulting pollution associated with stormwater and reduce downstream flooding. The native plants used also create habitat for pollinators. To view a prior workshop full length video and self-study materials, go to https://www.dcva.org/Rain-Garden/ and for a shorter video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XXiAC1LiVko. Want a Hav-a-Rain Garden? Email address & phone # to havaraingarden@gmail.com. After that, you must respond to a signup genius email to schedule your assessment in late winter or summer. Only Haverford property owners (including non-profits and businesses) can request a future assessment for a rain garden - high scoring assessments qualify to be offered a rain garden and sweat-equity is required. Get extra points if you already volunteered and for great gardening skills. We need volunteers to keep this going! We have many volunteers who help install our gardens but need a few more committed individuals to join the new Hav-a-Rain Garden core team that will keep this going into the future. You will learn to help outreach, schedule, assess, design, order and care for plants, and stage and coordinate installation. Many hands make light work! Email havaraingarden@gmail.com and with the subject “Rain Garden Team” and tell us you want to join our core rain garden team and we will send you the link for this and future meetings. If you just want to volunteer for the installations and are not already on our signup genius list, use the subject “Volunteer for Rain Garden Installation” and we will add you to our list for fall installations (mid-September to mid-October). Our lead Organizer is stepping down after 10 years and we would love to keep this great program going!
TICKET MUST BE PRESENT TO ACCESS
Registration required for all events, Register at: delcohhw.eventbrite.com or scan the QR code
Registration/QR Code will be activated 6 weeks prior to event
Sat., Sept 6th Emergency Services Training Ctr. 1600 Calcon Hook Rd,, Sharon Hill, PA 19019 • Sat., Oct 11th
Upper Chichester Municipal Bldg. 8500 Furey Rd., Upper Chichester, PA 19019 Electronics Waste & Latex Paint will NOT be accepted
REMAIN SAFE AND INDEPENDENT AT HOME
Make a Bathroom Accessible
There are home modifications that can be done now so you can be ready to enjoy this beautiful time of year. If you have mobility challenges or just want to stay safe and independent in own home, there is technology and products that can make life easily accessible. Today there are many amazing solutions that will make your home accessible, beautiful and safe.
Make an Entryway Accessible
Install a modular ramp for entry to a front, back, or side door. This will eliminate stairs for individuals who have mobility challenges or are in a wheelchair a scooter. A modular steel ramp can be assembled in one day, is removable and reusable, fireproof, slip resistant, and has handrails.
Install a Stair Lift
When stairs become challenging, a stair lift offers a great solution. Stair lifts take you from one floor to the next with ease and are mounted with minimal changes to the stairs. Stair lifts come in varying indoor and outdoor models with an array of features such as remote control, swivel seats, battery back up, and more.
Use Portable Ramps and Threshold Ramps
Sometimes one, two steps, or an uneven surface can become troublesome. These small areas of raised surfaces are often the biggest causes of a trip and fall accident. There are many styles of aluminum and rubber ramps that can provide a smooth transition for you to maneuver
Many falls and slips happen in the bathroom. A few easy modifications will allow you to avoid hazards that could cause accidents. Install a ADA compliant shower, sink, or toilet. Strategically place grab bars in the shower or next to a toilet for stability in a wet and slippery environment. Widen the doorways and hallways to accommodate walkers, scooters or wheelchairs. Add lever handles to doors, cabinets and faucets for easier opening.
When you are ready to start a project, look for a company with accessibility experience, who is familiar with the Americans with Disabilities Act guidelines and local zoning laws. A Certified Aging in Place Specialist (CAPS) has been trained by the National Association of Home Builders on remodeling existing homes to age-in-place Take advantage of a FREE evaluation to review your needs.
Amramp is an accessibility product and service company that serves residents throughout Radnor Township and beyond. Our goal is to help provide confidence so you can move from room to room or inside to outside with ease. Do not let a few barriers stand in the way of enjoying your home and spending time with family and friends.
“My modular ramp has significantly increased my quality of life. The change in my daily life was instantaneous. Short trips to store and church were almost impossible. Now I can get in and out of the house and enjoy social and community interaction. My emotional well being has been positively affected.”
VOTING INFORMATION
The Rule of Law — You'll be the Judge!
This fall, you'll be voting for judges — from the bottom up. It is important to understand their roles and responsibilities. These include interpreting and applying laws to settle disputes and ensuring fair and impartial outcomes. They oversee court proceedings, assess the evidence presented, and ultimately decide cases — with or without a jury.
The Unified Judicial System of Pennsylvania is best shown by this pyramid as illustrated by Pennsylvanians for Modern Courts. During this odd-numbered year, judges at all levels will be on November's municipal ballot.
At the base are the Minor Courts staffed in Delaware County by district magistrates. These individuals serve six-year terms and are not required to be lawyers. They settle disputes involving small amounts of money or property. Magistrates may also
conduct weddings, issue warrants, and decide bail and whether serious criminal cases go to the Court of Common Pleas or preliminary hearings.
The Courts of Common Pleas includes 439 judges who oversee trial courts within sixty judicial districts. Here cases appealed from the minor courts are heard, and decisions are made by juries or judges.
The nine-member Commonwealth Court and the fifteen-member Superior Court form the statewide Intermediate Appellate Courts. These courts generally convene as a panel of three judges. The Superior Court handles appeals in criminal, family, and civil cases from the Courts of Common Pleas. The Commonwealth Court deals with original civil actions brought by and against the Commonwealth and appeals from state agency decisions.
The seven-member Supreme Court is the final word on all matters appealed from lower courts' decisions and can intervene on requests in lower courts' proceedings at their discretion. However, some cases, such as those involving the death penalty or interpreting the Pennsylvania Constitution, require mandatory review. The Supreme Court is the ultimate authority on interpreting Pennsylvania laws. It further supervises and oversees the operations of the court system and
the regulation of the practice of law in the Commonwealth. Redistricting rulings at this level have changed the shape of Pennsylvania politics.
Pennsylvania, like a handful of other states, has partisan judicial elections. In spite of the efforts of the League of Women Voters, judicial candidates are affiliated with major parties, hold campaigns, and even have committees that raise money. Such a process can lead to conflicts of interest. For all judges above the minor courts, their initial ten- year terms are followed by nonpartisan retention (Yes/No) elections. This process can help diminish concerns of partiality over time. Judges in Pennsylvania must retire at age 75.
The Leagues in Delaware County have recently completed a study of the federal judicial system. A consensus was reached to set a mandatory retirement age, reduce conflicts of interest, promote ethical behavior, and improve transparency at the Supreme Court level. Based on League studies throughout the nation, a position will be developed from which members can advocate for change.
To find out more about judges running for election in November 2025, go to the Pennsylvania Bar Association (pabar.org). To learn more about the League of Women Voters, go to PALWV.org.
