“This is a significant step toward providing relief for the taxpayers of Bucks County, who have borne the burden of housing state inmates for too long,” Chairman Cawley noted. “We congratulate the members of the Bucks County delegation in Harrisburg for their foresight, and we ask that Gov. Rendell sign it into law as quickly as possible.”

The bills call for confinement reimbursement (HB4), permission for counties to utilize state Department of Corrections (DOC) transportation resources to move inmates as well as to encourage the use of video conferencing (HB5), authority for county judges to grant parole to inmates serving state sentences (HB6) and improvements to the process by which the DOC can transfer seriously ill inmates to receive care (HB7).

During April, the Board of Commissioners sent a letter to the Bucks County delegation, urging it to “support the entire four-bill prison reform package without amendment.”

Approximately 12 percent of inmates who are serving state sentences in Bucks County’s maximum/minimum custody facilities are serving state sentences. The cost to house inmates in the Bucks County Correctional Facility (BCCF) is $85 per day per inmate. The cost to house inmates in the Men’s and Women’s Community Corrections Center is $62 per day per inmate. Together, those inmates cost the county more than $5 million annually.

Neshaminy Manor was one of only four nursing homes from Pennsylvania to receive this honor. Nationally, 299 facilities were awarded out of over 3,000 that submitted surveys. Neshaminy Manor was recognized by My InnerView as, “achieving a high level of excellence in overall facility quality.”

“Neshaminy Manor is one of the jewels in Bucks County’s crown,” praised Commissioner Chairman Jim Cawley, adding, “We are very proud to offer the finest care available to the seniors of our community.”

Representatives from Genesis Healthcare, the management body of Neshaminy Manor, were on hand July 2 to personally award the honor to the administration and staff during a reception in the nursing home’s lobby rotunda.

The award was presented to facilities reaching a 30% or greater response rate, and scored in the top 10% of qualifying facilities on the question, “What is your recommendation of this facility to others?” Neshaminy Manor had a 49.5% response rate, with an average 69% rating of excellence.

Neshaminy Manor Administrator Evelyn Koslowski said, “It is through our staff dedication and caring as well as family collaboration that we are able to achieve these high grades in such a competitive and regulatory environment. It is with great pride that I thank the staff for their clinical leadership, program management, and most of all their personal approach to resident-centered care.”

“I encourage all voters who haven’t used the county’s new machines yet to either watch our instructional video or actually test out the voting machine,” Dean noted.  There are several ways to learn to use the machines.

• Go to www.BucksCounty.org, click on the Bucks Votes icon and scroll down to the second link, Bucks Votes instructional video to view the video.
• Visit the Bucks County Courthouse in Doylestown during normal business hours to view the video and then participate in a demonstration.
• Tune in to Comcast Channel 96 during programming to view the video (weekdays noon to 1 p.m.., 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., and 11 p.m. to midnight; weekends 7  to 11 p.m.) 
• Visit the Lower Bucks Government Services Center, Levittown, during normal business hours to participate in a demonstration.
• Go to www.BucksCounty.org, click on the Bucks Votes icon and scroll down to the first link to view or print a voting guide.
• All polling places will have copies of the guide, which features step-by-step instructions, as well as county libraries.

Dean also reminds the public that all voters who appear at a polling place for the first time must show proof of identification.  Approved forms of photo identification include:

• Pennsylvania driver’s license or PennDOT ID card
• ID issued by any Commonwealth agency
• ID issued by the U.S. Government
• U.S. passport
• U.S. Armed Forces ID
• Student ID
• Employee ID

During 2003, the Board of Bucks County Commissioners appointed a Senior Task Force to serve as an advisory group to the commissioners and the Bucks County Area Agency on Aging (AAA). In May, 2005, the Senior Task Force hosted a Summit on Aging to:

1. Assess and determine issues of concern to older adults within Bucks County communities;
2. Educate delegates and Bucks County residents regarding resources and collaborations that address elders’ areas of concern, and;
3. Inspire the residents and municipal leaders to foster community initiatives dedicated to making Bucks County an elder friendly community.

Prior to the 2005 Summit on Aging, a survey of older adults identified transportation as a leading issue of importance that must be addressed. As Bucks County AAA Director Brian Duke explained during today’s bi-monthly commissioners’ meeting, some communities have regional transportation systems in place for older persons, but the majorities do not. This is especially true in rural parts of the county.

“Older individuals living in our communities who lose the skills necessary for safe driving may become isolated due to a lack of transportation services or a lack of knowledge of existing services,” Duke said. “This isolation can impact a person’s well-being due to decreased social interaction, a lack of access to health and social services, and limited ability to pursue daily living activities such as shopping.”

Accordingly, the Senior Task Force has designated transportation and mobility as its priority in 2008. The commissioners join with Duke and members of the recently formed a Transportation and Mobility Committee to ask residents age 55 and over to complete a transportation survey specifically designed to identify transportation and mobility needs.

“Recommendations from this survey, which will be conducted between the beginning of February and March 15, will form the agenda for a conference tentatively scheduled for the fall of 2008,” Commissioner Chairman James F. Cawley, Esq., noted. “This conference will explore ideas to enhance transportation and mobility options for older residents of our county. I encourage all residents who have reached the age of 55 to participate in this important research.”

The Transportation and Mobility Survey also will form part of the basis of a report to be compiled by the Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission (DVRPC) to identify transportation and service options, unmet needs and provide priority recommendations to meet these needs.

The confidential survey requests no identifying information. It is available through the Bucks County AAA (215-348-0510), at the county’s 13  senior community centers, and online through the county Web site, www.BucksCounty.org. Simply click on the stop sign icon on the main page.

The Commissioners’ Senior Task Force recognizes that our communities are on the verge of profound changes, and continues to fulfill its mission of making Bucks County a place to age well.

The hospital was facing financial troubles because insurance reimbursements were falling short of costs, creating an annual half-million dollar deficit. Following negotiations with the hospital, insurance provider Magellan, and Health and Human Services Acting Director Joe Funk, Lower Bucks patients will be able to continue their care in the convenient location. Magellan has agreed to increase its reimbursement rate.

“On a daily basis, the county is focused on providing better access and better services to the residents of Bucks County,” noted Commissioner Chairman James F. Cawley, who sits on the hospital’s board of directors. “We’re thrilled that we were able to sit down at the table and agree on a solution that will have a positive impact on those we serve.”

The meeting will be held on Thursday, January 24 at 5 p.m. at the Middletown Township Municipal Building, 3 Municipal Way, Langhorne.

In addition, Commissioners Martin and Cawley read a proclamation declaring Jan. 2, 2008 as “Commissioner Sandra A. Miller Appreciation Day” throughout the County of Bucks. Similarly, Chief Operating Officer David M. Sanko concluded his report by praising Commissioner Miller for consistently championing “the best interest of the citizens.” Added Sanko: “I will miss that interaction.”

“I am proud to have been a part of the accomplishments and progress of county government, and to be the longest serving commissioner in our recorded history,” Commissioner Miller said. “I will continue to serve our Bucks County community, but now it will be as a private citizen. I will always be grateful to have had the opportunity to serve as commissioner.”

Since 1991, when she arrived at the courthouse as a self-proclaimed “community activist,” she compiled a legacy of service that produced “no regrets, only disappointments.”

Commissioner Martin thanked his outgoing colleague for her professionalism, noting: “We haven’t always agreed, but our disagreements have been kept where they belonged.”

Commissioner Cawley offered gratitude for her many efforts, adding: “I hope to use your example as one I try to live up to as I continue to serve the people of Bucks County.”

The regular portion of the agenda featured unanimous approval of resolutions for 15 departments, including a Department of Corrections contract with the Pennsylvania Chiefs of Police Association for Livescan maintenance services. COO Sanko cited the contract, which unites Corrections, the Sheriff’s Department and Adult Probation services, as a cost-saving example of collaboration. Sanko noted that such collaboration was a prime factor in the county’s ability to hold the line on taxes for the second straight year through the 2008 operating budget.

The commissioners approved a municipal application agreement with Warrington’s Carroll Engineering Corporation for Bucks County First Tee on the Thiokol property in Bristol Twp., prompting Commissioner Miller to observe: “I am delighted to see this is happening.” Also on the Parks and Recreation front, the commissioners approved a one-year contract with the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service to provide “integrated waterfowl damage management.” According to Executive Director of Parks and Recreation Bill Mitchell, the USDA contract allowed the vendor to remove 1,600 goose eggs and prevent $184,000 in additional damage to agricultural and other properties. “There has been a noticeable decrease in activity,” Mitchell noted.

Another highlight of the agenda was the approval of a Brownfield Economic Development Initiative (BEDI) grant application and agreement for the redevelopment of a Bensalem Twp. property. The project will continue the redevelopment that has become prominent along the Delaware River as part of a larger vision for revitalization.

The meeting concluded with Fitzpatrick thanking the board for the opportunity to serve on last year’s successful Open Space referendum education committee. He told Commissioner Miller that her legacy of land preservation is “something you can measure, and you are judged by success based on results.”

Moments later, Commissioner Miller adjourned the proceedings by banging a cherished gavel, the same one used by her uncle, former Commissioner Adolph Andrews, during the late 50’s and early 60’s.

“This week is intended to highlight the significance of updating your flu shot,” Chairman Martin noted. “It is extremely important that we continue to stress greater use of flu vaccine as prescribed by the CDC guidelines.”

Through the county’s second annual Pandemic Flu Drill – a medical and non-medical emergency preparedness volunteer exercise staged Oct. 27 at four locations throughout Bucks – 4,201 flu shots were issued within a four-hour period. Over the last two years, Health Dept. officials provided more than 7,200 flu shots through the Pandemic Flu Drill’s unique points of distribution (or POD’s).
Children comprise a particularly vulnerable demographic with regard to effects of the flu. Each year, over 20,000 children under the age of 5 are hospitalized. “Children’s Flu Vaccination Day” is recognized nationally today, Nov. 27.  The day is an awareness tool to educate the public about the value of vaccinating children – especially high-risk children and those with whom they come into close contact.

To that end, the Health Dept. offers these upcoming children’s immunization clinics. Please call to schedule an appointment.

Doylestown, 1282 Almshouse Rd., Dec. 10 & 17, phone: 215-345-3344
Quakertown, 515 South West End Blvd., Dec. 4 & 18, phone: 215-536-6500
Levittown, 7321 New Falls Rd., Dec. 3, 10 & 17, phone: 215-949-5805

One of the vehicles was assigned to the Lower Makefield Twp. Police Department, to transport the township’s two bomb detection dogs (Jasmine and Bishop) and one drug detection dog (Kendo). The other was donated to the Lower Southampton Fire Company, to carry a swift water rescue equipment trailer, as well as equipment from the Bucks County Technical Rescue Team. The bomb dogs and the equipment trailer were funded by Department of Homeland Security funding that was secured by the Pennsylvania Southeast Regional Counter Terrorism Task Force – which is chaired by Dougherty.

“It is our pleasure to assign county assets to both of these very worthy response units – which enhance interoperability for neighboring municipalities and counties,” Chairman Martin said. “This will save money, as well, representing a win-win situation for taxpayers.”

Commissioner Cawley pointed out the role both first-response units play in regional response capabilities, noting, “In Bucks County, we are extremely proud of the resources we commit to public safety. We will continue to be a leader in regional response planning and operation. So much of what our emergency management and first-response community does is work behind the scenes. When our responders need the specific abilities of a bomb or drug dog or a swift water/technical rescue operation, these vehicles will be a valuable asset in conducting those maneuvers.”

Chairman Martin also noted that both vehicles will be painted and detailed by students from Bucks County’s technical high schools – an additional cost-cutting measure that will serve as an educational outlet for the students.

“We must note that partnerships are the essence of emergency preparedness and our Ready Bucks campaign,” Commissioner Cawley said, adding that the EOC 911 Communications Annex is scheduled for a spring, 2008 opening. “This is all part of an ever-widening plan for Bucks County and the region.”

The event, organized by the Bucks County Gold Star Families – including Ruth Stonesifer and Col. Thomas Manion, USMC, and wife, Janet Manion – was held with the support and backing of Bucks County Commissioners Charles H. Martin, chairman, James F. Cawley, Esq., and Sandra A. Miller, Chief Operating Officer David M. Sanko, and President Judge David Heckler.

“This is truly a sacred place of honor,” Chairman Martin said during brief introductory remarks. “It is our fervent hope that the flags we dedicate today create an enduring means of honoring these truly special young men and women.”

Col. Manion delivered the keynote address, which he offered in poignant tribute to his son, 1st Lt. Travis L. Manion, USMC, killed in the line of duty on April 29, 2007, at the age of 26, in Al Anbar, Iraq. “These brave men and women believed in something bigger than themselves,” Col. Manion said. “They believed they could make a difference in this world, and they were certain that they had.” Col. Manion also referred to the “incredible, selfless sacrifice” made by his son and the other 15 Hometown Heroes.

“The word love is as complex in its meaning as it is elusive in its definition,” Commissioner Cawley said during his remarks. “There are more kinds of love than perhaps we can even fathom, but certainly, no type of love is more selfless than love of country – because it encapsulates so many different types of love: love of family, love of friends, love of neighbors, love of community, and love of idea. These 16 heroes gave the ultimate sacrifice for people they never even met.”

Commissioner Miller expressed deep feelings of gratitude as well, telling the assemblage: “I am honored to recognize the bravery and sacrifice represented by each of these 16 flags – and their individual excellence. It is truly fitting that they hang in a state of perpetual memory, ringing this courtyard of heroes. Although they are no longer with us, their service on our behalf will never, never be forgotten.”

Following Col. Manion’s remarks, Capt. Eric Cahill, USMC, led a procession around the courtyard. Stopping at each flag with drum accompaniment from three members of the Central Bucks High School East Marching Band, Cahill announced all 16 fallen heroes. The procession took on even more personal meaning when Cahill reached Manion’s flag. The two young men shared a Plebe (freshman year) English Literature class during their time together at the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis. Cahill fondly recalled that they struck up an instant friendship when they realized they both hailed from suburban Philadelphia (Manion graduated from LaSalle College High; Cahill from archrival St. Joseph’s Prep).

The Hometown Heroes ceremony concluded with the playing of “Taps,” in the area of the courtyard adjacent to the Bucks County World War II Memorial. The flags will be on permanent display for visitors to the Bucks County Courthouse, located at 55 E. Court St., Doylestown. Following is a list of Bucks County’s Hometown Heroes:
HOMETOWN HEROES
Kristofor Stonesifer, Airborne Army Ranger, Doylestown
Patrick R. Nixon, Cpl. USMC, Doylestown
William J. Maher III, US Army Spc., Yardley
Brian R. Faunce, US Army Captain, Bensalem
Tamarra J. Ramos, US Army Spc., Quakertown
Maurice J. Johnson, US Army Spc., Levittown
Edward Brabazon, US Army Spc., Levittown
Barton R. Humlhanz, Cpl. USMC, Hellertown
Robert T. Minninger, Lance Cpl. USMC, Sellersville
Kurt E. Krout, US Army Spc., Spinnerstown
Nathaniel E. DeTample, US Army Pfc., Morrisville
Jae S. Moon, US Army Staff Sgt., Levittown
Travis L. Manion, 1st Lt. USMC, Doylestown
Colby J. Umbrell, 1LT US Army Ranger, Doylestown
Allen James Dunckley, US Army Sgt., Yardley
Robert H. Dembowski, Jr., US Army 82nd Airborne, Ivyland

The result was a carbon-copy repeat of the 100-percent compliance score the BCCF received back in 2005, at which time it was one of only two county-operated corrections facilities to receive the coveted 100-percent inspection distinction.

This morning, during the bi-monthly meeting of the Board of Bucks County Commissioners in Feasterville, Pennsylvania Department of Corrections representative Tom Schlager recognized the commissioners, Chief Operating Officer David M. Sanko, Director of Corrections Harris Gubernick and the Bucks County Prison Oversight Board for their commitment to excellence at the BCCF. Under Gubernick’s direction, Bucks County’s state compliance score has risen consistently from 84 percent in 2002 to two consecutive perfect scores in 2005 and 2007.

“This is a wonderful achievement, and we applaud Director Gubernick and his staff for their performance and commitment to ensuring the safety of all Bucks Countians,” Commissioner Chairman Charles H. Martin said.

“We are proud of the systems we have put in place, all of which represent a larger, comprehensive vision that is shared by the county commissioners, Prison Oversight Board members, and judicial staff,” Gubernick noted.

“As the last two state inspection reports have confirmed, conditions at the Bucks County’s Corrections facilities are among the best in the commonwealth,” said Commissioner Sandra A. Miller, who chairs the Prison Oversight Board.

Bucks County President Judge David Heckler added his praise, observing, “The administration and hard-working staff of the BCCF have maintained a high standard of excellence that includes state-of-the-art training and public safety awareness.”

Commissioner James F. Cawley, Esq. chairs the Prison Oversight Board Inspection Committee. “We are extremely pleased that the BCCF continues to be a model for corrections personnel throughout the commonwealth,” Commissioner Cawley said.