Delaware County Chamber Hosts its 8th Annual Youth Leadership Academy

[Springfield, PA]— On Monday, May 9th the Foundation of the Delaware County Chamber of Commerce and the Workforce Development Board, Youth Council held its 8th annual Youth Leadership Academy at the Penn State-Brandywine Campus. The Youth Leadership Academy is a three day program that celebrates student achievements, supported by, Comcast, Delaware County Women's Commission, United Way of Greater Philadelphia & Southern New Jersey, Exelon Generation, Thunderbird Pizza, and Delaware County Office of Behavior Health, Division of Drug and Alcohol. Delaware County high school sophomores learn the power of leadership and are encouraged to become better prepared to take on future leadership opportunities. The program provided an outstanding opportunity for these 27 area 10th graders:

·         Olivia Andrisani (Academy of Notre Dame de Namur)

·         Suzanne Carpenter (Archbishop Carroll High School)

·         James Dougherty (Archbishop Carroll High School)

·         Stephen Swanick (Cardinal O'Hara High School)

·         Aliyah Brodie (Chester High School)

·         Jannelle Hartshorn (Chester High School)

·         Jasmine Hartshorn (Chester High School)

·         Melanie Hull-Dempsey (Chichester High School)

·         Adam P. Klein (Episcopal Academy)

·         Graham McAllister (Delaware County Technical High School)

·         Sindy Palma (Delaware County Technical High School)

·         Elena Taylor (Garnet Valley High School)

·         Emma Davies (Haverford High School)

·         Wyatt McDevitt (Interboro High School)

·         Katie Nunan (Marple-Newtown High School)

·         Savanna Urban (Merion Mercy Academy)

·         Maura Fee (Monsignor Bonner & Archbishop Prendergast)

·         Neve Spellman (Monsignor Bonner & Archbishop Prendergast)

·         Erica Williams (Sun Valley High School)

·         Francisca Mukova (Penn Wood High School)

·         Natalie Mantegna (Penncrest High School)

·         Dan Bullock (Radnor High School)

·         Ryan Kennedy (Ridley High School)

·         Rachel Gould (Springfield High School)

·         Sarah Jordan (Upper Darby High School)

·         Nicole Strasinski (Upper Darby High School)

·         Tommy Ricci (Upper Darby High School)

Throughout the Academy, interactive sessions were addressed with a variety of topics, including Business Leadership, Working with the Media, Government/Political, and Non-Profit Leadership. During the three days students also were able to meet and work with four different leadership panels. Panels were arranged with local area leaders in these four categories:

Government

·         Colleen P. Morrone (Delaware County Councilwoman)

·         Caitlin Ganley (District Director, Congressman Patrick Meehan)

·         Thomas J. Judge, Jr. (Chief Administrative Officer, Upper Darby Township)

·         Ed Kelly (Springfield Township Commissioner)

Business

·         Laura Kasper (President/CEO, Monarch Staffing)

·         Michael Simpson (CPA, CVA, Partner- Brinker, Simpson and Co. LLC)

·         Steve Landers (Owner, Thunderbird Pizza)

·         Lisa Luke (Axalta)

·         Jacqueline Gardner (Tomorrow Utilities)

Non-Profit

·         Doreen Storey (Executive Director, Delaware County United Way of Greater Philadelphia and Southern New Jersey)

·         Mike Ranck (President and CEO, Community YMCA of Eastern Delaware County)

·         Clayton Fitch (Senior Grant Writer, Pathways PA)

·         Kelly Colvin (Associate Director, Center on Regional Politics, Temple University)

Media

·         Phil Heron (Editor, Delaware County Daily Times)

·         Jen Boyett (Government Affairs Manager, Comcast)

·         Bill Tyson (Penn State and Chair of Press Club)

·         Kathleen Carey (Business Writer, Delaware County Daily Times)

·         JB Braun (Publisher, Main Line Today)

Finally to cap off the program, a celebration was held the third night for the students and their families, along with an array of Delaware County leaders. The night allowed everyone to share in the success of the students and to recap the topics covered in the program. Also the students were divided into groups to give their own “Ignite Presentation” on the theme of leadership.

Overall the program was a major success helping promote leadership in Delaware County, and preparing the next generation of future leaders. Chamber president, Trish McFarland stated “Our future depends so much on the next generation of individuals who are willing to accept the challenge, that we must help nurture and support our young area leaders. The Delaware County Chamber is committed to recognizing the leaders of tomorrow, and promoting the success of our students.”

About the Delaware County Chamber of Commerce:

Founded in 1887, the Delaware County Chamber of Commerce represents businesses' interests and issues affecting the community. We help Chamber members succeed through proactive outreach and partnering with all levels of government and community organizations through education, networking and collaboration to achieve a healthy economy to drive business forward. For more information on membership and how you can get involved, visit www.delcochamber.org

5 Must Have Burgers in Delco #FiveFriday

 

“At the base level, a burger is a piece of meat and a bun with something on it. It’s simple but it seems to make a lot of people happy.”- Danny Meyer (NYC restaurateur and CEO of the Union Square Hospitality Group)

The hamburger has to be considered one of the most popular foods in the United States. It is actually so popular that the sandwich is sometimes referred to as the “Liberty Sandwich”. But don’t let this name fool you. The hamburger is so popular throughout the world, that 60% of sandwiches sold globally are actually burgers. In America alone, 50 billion burgers are eaten in one single year. Many experimented with the idea of the classic hamburger and have attempted some very bold choices for toppings on this popular sandwich. So if you’re asking yourself “Where’s the beef?” or tired of grabbing a quick drive-thru burger then let the Chamber suggest these five amazing burgers in Delaware County.

 

1.     Smokehouse Burger (Texas Roadhouse, Concordville)

Now if you have a Texas-size appetite that doesn’t seem to be satisfied right here in Delco, this may be the one that finally puts your “Lone Star” yearning to rest. This ½ lb. burger served on a toasted, texas-sized bun can remind you how a burger is supposed to be. If you argue that best condiment for a burger is barbeque sauce and not ketchup, then Texas Roadhouse agrees having this burger topped with sweet, smoky goodness. Since Texas Roadhouse has such an incredible sense of pride in everything they do to ensure a legendary experience for all their guests, this handcrafted burger will not disappoint.

 

Ingredients include: A ½ lb. of fresh ground chuck topped with sautéed mushrooms, onions and BBQ sauce over American and jack cheeses. Served on a toasted, Texas-sized bun with lettuce, tomato, and onion, along with steak fries and a pickle spear on the side.

 

 

2.     Durango Burger (Firebird’s Wood-Fired Grill, Chadds Ford)

 

 

When you bite into a burger, instead of asking “Where’s the meat?” but exclaim “Where’s the heat?” Firebird’s has answered your call. Now you can’t think bold without thinking of the fire-grilled Durango Burger, and these bold flavors will sure give you the right kick. Also with so much heat, why not cool off with happy hour happening Monday through Friday from 4 pm to 6:30 pm. Their $2 off draft beers and $5 well drinks can be a great combination with this feisty burger. Come enjoy upscale dining at a modest price with this polished-casual atmosphere. With Firebird’s being so popular it is recommended to make reservations.

 

Ingredients include: Chile spiced, pepper jack cheese, pickles, fried onions, roasted garlic ranch dressing, brioche bun

 

 

3.     Santa Fe Turkey Burger (Iron Hill Brewery, Media)

 

 

If you’re tired of the same ground beef in a burger and looking for a leaner meat, than Iron Hill has the solution. And for you burger-lovers out there that are stuck in their ways claiming a turkey-burger isn’t a real burger, then you have never had this one. The Santa Fe burger will change the way you think about burgers and open you up to a whole new world with this creative collaboration. With the pursuit of happiness in mind when originally forming Iron Hill Brewery, this burger can sure get you a lot closer. The inspired, yet informal new American cuisine with comfortable casual atmosphere makes Iron Hill the perfect place to be on a night out.

 

Ingredients include: guacamole, tomato, bacon, pepper jack and ancho-honey mayonnaise on a brioche bun

 

 

 

4.     Grass-fed Burger (Outback Steakhouse, Glen Mills)

 

 

 

Who doesn’t enjoy the classic cheeseburger? This 100% grass-fed burger does not stray away with any drastic toppings, but lets the simplicity of a classic cheeseburger speak for itself. With Outback providing generous portions at moderate prices, this burger could even tame an Australian Outback appetite. Come enjoy this savory burger and see why you can never go wrong with a classic.

 

Ingredients include: 100% Grass-Fed, sustainably raised premium beef patty topped with aged Cheddar cheese, lettuce, tomato, red onion and a garlic aioli.

 

 

5.     Kennet Square Burger (Duffer’s Tavern, Glen Mills)

 

 

 

The bold and vegetarian-esque type of toppings make this burger stand out from the crowd opposed to its carnivorous counterparts. The portabella and shitake mushrooms, and horseradish make the burger have a complex yet satisfying texture and flavor. But if that’s not enough and you’re feeling adventurous, you can add a fried egg for only $2 extra. With the best staff creating the best atmosphere, Duffers can hold its own against the numerous chain competitors in the area.

 

Ingredients include: Topped w/ thinly sliced herb roasted, marinated Portabella & Shitake mushrooms & horseradish cheddar. Served with house made potato chips.

 

 

Savor these burgers, and who knows, these five may eventually find themselves in the Burger Hall of Fame in Seymour, Wisconsin. No matter your preference I’m sure you’ll find a favorite among them, and remember what actress Erica Durance said, “We all need to make time for a burger once in a while.”

 

 

 

 

About the Delaware County Chamber of Commerce:

 

 

 

Founded in 1887, the Delaware County Chamber of Commerce represents businesses' interests and issues affecting the community. We help Chamber members succeed through proactive outreach and partnering with all levels of government and community organizations through education, networking and collaboration to achieve a healthy economy to drive business forward. For more information on membership and how you can get involved, visit www.delcochamber.org

 

5 Melmark Programs You Need to Know #FiveFriday

 

Established in 1966, Melmark has spent the last fifty years becoming one of the most well-known and significant nonprofits in the Delaware County Area. They are a comprehensive multi-service agency, providing residential, educational and therapeutic services for children and adults with autism, intellectual disabilities, brain injuries and other neurological and genetic diagnoses. With a combined staff of 905 people, they currently serve over 1,000 children and adults with intellectual disabilities. Melmark has a wide variety of programs and services that help promote independence, increased self-awareness and confidence, along with their residents making lasting friendships. With Melmark currently celebrating its 50^th Anniversary and obtaining a new CEO, Rita M. Gardner, they are truly a member to watch. Here are five programs you need to know about.

 

1.    The Meadows

 

The Meadows is one of the most popular and well-known programs that Melmark offers. It is
a day program for younger and older adults that combines vocational activities and creative arts. Participants in the Meadows Program are members of the Country Guild and share in the overall profits from sale of their products. The program’s artists create wonderful pieces including knitted stuffed animals, mosaics, and decorative housewares. With all of these pieces available for purchase, you can have a one-of-a-kind work of art that helps support this amazing program.

 

2.    The Chris Maurer Vocational Program

 

 

 

The Vocational Program serves adults 21 years of age and older, and assists each individual in identifying a job opportunity that allows them to grow and enjoy their work. After assessing skills and interest, adults are provided with a variety of work and instructional experiences ranging from on campus training programs to independent paid employment. This program has provided some wonderful success stories like Patrick:

 

Through the program Patrick developed job skills that helped lead to his employment at AMC in February 2013. He started with a job coach, and when he was ready, that coach was faded out. Now Patrick works independently and has just celebrated three years with the company. “Working at AMC makes me happy,” said Patrick. “It’s an accomplishment.”

 

3.    Adult Workshops

 

 

Melmark’s Adult Services focuses on integrated programs for adults 21 and over who are diagnosed with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Each of the programs match the persons’ abilities and desires, while emphasizing wellness, daily living and communication skills. Programs can include physical therapy, pet-assisted activities, campus employment, Special Olympics, and swimming. Also for those members that want to get “their country on”, Melmark has their own barn on the campus.  Residents are allowed to engage with farm animals and horseback riding, while learning vocational skills involved as a “farm-hand”.

 

4.    The Melmark School

 

 

 

The Melmark School is an approved private school licensed by the Pennsylvania Department of Education that serves children and adolescents ages 5 to 21. The educational program focuses on the needs of students with learning difficulties and challenging behaviors secondary to a broad range of intellectual disabilities. Melmark's innovative program is defined by its collaborative clinical service delivery model with individualized education plans. The school has created major success stories with students like Michael:

 

 

 

Michael was thirteen years old when he arrived at Melmark, and had severe difficulty behaving in a classroom setting. Melmark’s behavior analytic team paired Michael with two staff who worked to identify why he was reacting negatively to his environment and helped him learn to more clearly communicate his wants and needs. Michael is a wonderful example of the success of the Melmark School. His life is richer, as his family’s.

 

 

5.    Residential Programs

 

 

 

Melmark’s residential setting for children and young adults is a 7-day/365 days-a-year service that includes programming based in applied behavior analysis, educational services, 24-hour on-campus nursing services, healthcare and rehabilitative services, and parent training. About 50% of attendees at Melmark are members of the residential program. The goal of the residential program is for the resident, when appropriate, to return to the family’s home or a less restrictive environment as soon as possible. The program allows for residents to gain both communication and vocational skills, living with roommates and participating in household chores.

 

 

Located on a beautiful 80-acre campus, Melmark is definitely a place to visit. When you step on the campus, residents greet you with such cheer and enthusiasm that you feel like part of the family. Come participate with so many volunteer opportunities for yourself or your entire company. Also help celebrate Melmark’s success at their Spring Festival and 50^th Birthday Bash on Saturday, June 11^th. Come experience the “Melmark Difference” and  see how incredible they certainly are.

 

 

 

 

About the Delaware County Chamber of Commerce:

 

Founded in 1887, the Delaware County Chamber of Commerce represents businesses' interests and issues affecting the community. We help Chamber members succeed through proactive outreach and partnering with all levels of government and community organizations through education, networking and collaboration to achieve a healthy economy to drive business forward. For more information on membership and how you can get involved, visit www.delcochamber.org

Sons of Ben Set To Disrupt Delco Philly Tech Week

 



Philly Tech Week 2016 (PTW2016) marks the sixth year of celebrating the intersection of art, media, entertainment and technology and its role in economic development.  Delaware County Chamber of Commerce, AT&T and HeadRoom will bring Philly Tech Week to the suburbs for the second time.  HeadRoom is producing the Signature Event – Startup StorySlam® – to take place in Media on Thursday, May 5th at 6 pm.  Corey Furlan, Co-Founder of Sons of Ben will be a featured speaker at the event.

Startup StorySlam® is a friendly competition where entrepreneurs share five minute stories of their business successes, challenges and entrepreneurial learnings based on the evening’s theme.  The theme for this event is ‘Disruption.’  “Disruptive technologies and disruptive businesses are frequently analyzed in the news.  We believe there are interesting people and stories in our community that can speak to the theme of being disrupted in a job, in a business or to actually causing a disruption.  We can’t wait to hear the stories.” says John Tooher of HeadRoom.  On May 5th, story tellers will be judged based on the content of their story, how they use the theme and overall presentation.  The story teller with the highest overall score will be awarded prizes including a one year membership to the Delaware County Chamber of Commerce; a one year residency membership to HeadRoom, and an AT&T gift certificate.

Corey Furlan will serve as a special feature story teller.  Corey is fresh off his appearance at the South by Southwest® (SXSW®) Conferences and Festivals in Austin, Texas.  SXSW® offers the unique convergence of original music, independent films, and emerging technologies.  Corey was invited by Major League Soccer to speak on the topic of "Understanding the MLS Supporters Culture".  As part of Delco Philly Tech Week, Corey will share his unique perspective of disrupting the trajectory of a community by creating a loyal, passionate, and community focused group of MLS fans known as Sons of Ben.

AT&T is sponsoring the Delaware County PTW2016 venues– Suburban Innovation.  Joseph Divis, Executive Director AT&T says, “AT&T is proud to support the celebration of innovation and business development throughout this region.  With today’s robust networks, cloud-based applications and innovative products from AT&T and the wireless industry, it is easier and more cost effective for entrepreneurs to pursue their passion and build a business from anywhere.  In this environment, we should expect entrepreneurs to leverage disrupted markets and to create new disruptions.”

To register as a story teller or for FREE admission to the event, you can visit:
http://www.delcochamber.org/events/PTW-HeadRoom-Startup-Story-Slam-55740/details


Written by:
Cindi Mallon-Sutera

5 Free Business Apps You Should Know About #FiveFriday

 

With Philly Tech Week just beginning its sixth annual week-long celebration of technology and innovation, it reminds us of the great strides made in these fields. With a consistently changing society, especially in technology and business, you need to continue to adapt and remain current with technology in order for your business to succeed. Applications are an easy and resourceful way to support you and your business. So check out these five recommended “apps” to help you in the business world. Also they won’t require you to pay a cent, and who doesn’t like FREE!

 

1.        Evernote

It’s surprising with the advances we made in technology and all the resources we have right at our fingertips, people still exchange business cards. But we still do, and it can be such a hassle to try and keep track of all the cards we exchange. Also it’s a very monotonous and time-consuming task to enter all the information from the cards to your contact list. This app helps speed the process and manages your contact list with one snap of a picture. This business card reader converts business card information by taking a picture of them and adding them to your contact list. It is an easy and painless way to keep your contact list up-to-date. Also this app will go the extra-mile from other “card reader” apps by using the business card information and add the person you met as a LinkedIn connection.

 

2.      Asana

 
If you’re tired of the countless e-mails back and forth to track who in your business has what assignment and if they have already completed certain projects; then this app is the lifeline you have been looking for. Founded in 2008 by Facebook Co-Founder Dustin Moskovitz, Asana is a shared task list and project management tool for your entire team. The app lets you see who on your team has what assignment, and what projects you have been assigned while you were out of the office. Besides just keeping up with tasks, you can attach files from Dropbox and attach images to projects. Also the app syncs in real time on your phone and on a web-based version as well. With this app you will never be left out of the loop no matter where you are.

 

3.      Blue Jeans

  
Anybody who is in the business field knows the struggle of conference calls. Whether it be trying to have everyone on the same line or having them all use the same platform, it can be a hassle. With so many platforms available for video conference calls, it can be a real challenge for everyone to use the same one. Maybe it’s because some won’t download correctly or they just prefer other types. Now with this app, you will no longer have to have everyone on the same platform for video conference calls. This service lets companies conduct video conference calls with everyone using different platforms like Google Hangouts, Microsoft Lync, and many more. And it gets even better. You do not even have to be at a computer to be a part of the call since the app can work right off your iPhone.

 

4.      FoxFi

 
 
How many times have you been traveling for work and need the internet but there are no wifi spots available? FoxFi has made the solution for dead-zones. The app works by turning your mobile device into a free wifi hotspot without a tether plan required. You might think that this sounds too good to be true, might damage the phone, or be at risk of revealing your information, but this highly secure app works without breaking into your phone’s software. Also the app can support multiple connections, and can work with any tablet as well.

 

5.      Square

 

Isn’t it just a pain when you need to collect a payment, but the person does not have cash and you can’t bring your credit card machine with you? Writing down the card information can be problematic. Square is an amazing tool. After downloading the app, the company will send you a free magstripe reader. It allows you to use your smartphone or tablet to accept all major credit cards and deposit into your bank account in one or two business days. With only a 2.75% per swipe fee, Square can really help advance your business and increase profits. The best part is with so much sensitive information being processed, Square makes protection and security their number one priority.

 

See how these apps can best help you and your company, and with no cost you can at least give it a try without losing anything. Be part of the technology movement and stay up-to-date with all business apps. With today being the start for Philly Tech Week in Delaware County, check out all of the upcoming events and see what sparks your interest and join the movement.

 

"Never before in history has innovation offered promise of so much to so many in so short a time." - Bill Gates

 

 

 

About the Delaware County Chamber of Commerce:

 

Founded in 1887, the Delaware County Chamber of Commerce represents businesses' interests and issues affecting the community. We help Chamber members succeed through proactive outreach and partnering with all levels of government and community organizations through education, networking and collaboration to achieve a healthy economy to drive business forward. For more information on membership and how you can get involved, visit www.delcochamber.org