Our Delaware Valley Podcast

Our Delaware Valley

Our Delaware Valley introduces you to the people and organizations making a difference in our community, from health and safety issues to education, employment, and even entertainment opportunities. Hosted by Lora Lewis, Our Delaware Valley looks for solutions and positive action to make our region a better place to call home.

  1. JAN 30

    The American Lung Association Greater Philadelphia Region

    From the American Lung Association, Greater Philadelphia Region, Felice Kelem, Development Director, and Kate Viega, Sr. Manager, Development, discussed their work in promoting lung health and fighting lung disease. Felice shared its origins 120 years ago in the fight against tuberculosis, then grew to address all lung diseases. Kate shared the research mission and their increased efforts as the government pulls back funding. We discussed lung cancer, the number one cause of cancer deaths for women – smokers or not - and we talked about the role both radon, air quality and tobacco plays in all lung disease. We then looked at the new State of Tobacco and the low scores for PA and NJ; DE fares better and tops in some areas such as funding and access to cessation classes, and smoke-free air.  We talked about kids and anti-tobacco programs in the schools and the work in advocacy the Lung Association does.  Finally, a look at their website where you can find information about their virtual and in-person cessation programs, volunteer opportunities including the Fight for Air stair climb in April, their annual walk and their annual visit to Capitol Hill, student programming, as well as information about radon and other lung disease. Kate also reminds us that they have a hot line, 1-800-LUNG USA that can talk to you about your lung health and answer questions about lung disease.  Find more information about the American Lung Association at LUNG.org. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    29 min
  2. 12/12/2025

    The Free Library of Philadelphia - the People's University

    Kelly Richards, President and Director of the Free Library discussed what he calls, ‘The People’s University,’ a valuable resource for all.  He spoke of the vast collections, the latest books, video and audio, as well as musical instruments, that are available for loan, as well as the tens of thousands of events they host each year - almost all for free. He discussed the job services offered, including professional headshots, job training and help with interviewing skills, For people wanting to start a business, get a patent, run a nonprofit, or learn the Free Library has 1:1 counseling, online courses, in-person and online workshops, and job fairs. From English and other language learning to computer access and classes, the Free Library helps meet your curiosity and resources to fuel Philly's vision of economic opportunity for all. The Free Library also offers free space with Wi-Fi for work or hanging out - one of the few "third spaces" where you don't have to buy a drink to spend time in a public place.  The Free Library is helping provide a clean, green, safe place for people to explore new passions and develop their economic opportunities - and it’s free for all. He notes that libraries serve as vital community hubs, places for connection, where people can find services, where people gather for crafts or book clubs, and how all of that creates social connection. Libraries weave together our neighborhoods.  He proud to tell us that The Library and the City of Philadelphia are investing in expanding library hours and completing vital repairs at some branches. They are expanding the libraries with Saturday service and by January the vast majority of our locations, 45 total, will open on Saturday.  While the city has stepped up its support, he reminds us the Free Library started as a public and privately funded institution and talked about the many volunteers and donors who support the libraries with additional funds. Kelly invites anyone who works, studies, or lives in Philadelphia to get a library card to get free access to courses, books, music, and so much more from our library and its partners.   Learn more at Freelibrary.org See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    30 min

About

Our Delaware Valley introduces you to the people and organizations making a difference in our community, from health and safety issues to education, employment, and even entertainment opportunities. Hosted by Lora Lewis, Our Delaware Valley looks for solutions and positive action to make our region a better place to call home.