Improving the way colleges address sexual assault
Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick, along with Sens. Kirsten Gillibrand and Chuck Grassley and Rep. Ro Khanna, announced the reintroduction of the Campus Accountability and Safety Act, legislation intended to combat sexual assault on college and university campuses. The bill seeks to improve the way institutions of higher education address and report incidents of sexual assault that take place on their campuses, and it would protect both survivors and accused students by ensuring that schools have a uniform and fair process for investigating and conducting campus disciplinary proceedings. Additionally, it will create new resources and support services for survivors and set new notification requirements for both survivors and accused students involved in the campus disciplinary process.
“Sexual assault on college campuses continues to be a crisis that demands our immediate action. And, as with all crimes, weak enforcement and insufficient accountability only embolden perpetrators to act with impunity. This bipartisan, bicameral legislation is a commitment to our students that we are taking action: action to ensure their safety and action to hold our educational institutions accountable by transforming how sexual assault and violence are handled and addressed. By demanding greater transparency, enforcing stringent accountability measures, and providing essential resources and support to victims, we can eliminate the toxic culture of inaction that has plagued our campuses for too long and create a safer environment for our students,” Fitzpatrick said.
The Campus Accountability and Safety Act will increase transparency and reporting requirements under the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act by mandating that the institution’s website include campus safety policies, an annual security report, instructions for filing a complaint and statistics of sexual misconduct allegations on campus; create sexual and interpersonal violence specialists at each institution to serve as confidential aides for victims; ensure that sexual and interpersonal violence specialists are well-trained by requiring training created by the Department of Education; ensure that individuals who report sexual misconduct in good faith are not punished for any physical violence or assault as a defense, or alcohol or drug use, that is revealed by that report; expand the VAWA Campus Grant Program to also address sexual harassment on campuses; and requires the comptroller general to study the effectiveness of VAWA grants and submit a report to Congress within two years of enactment. ••
Learn about wills and estates
Bucks County Register of Wills and Clerk of Orphans’ Court Linda Bobrin is embarking on her 2024 Senior Center Tour. Bobrin and members of her staff will be giving presentations about wills, estate planning and inheritance tax at senior centers across Bucks County.
Hour-long presentations will be held on the following dates:
• Aug. 27: Pennridge Senior Center, 11 a.m.
• Sept. 10: Lower Makefield Senior Center, 10:30 a.m.
Attendees can expect to learn the basics of what makes a will valid, along with an overview of probate and inheritance tax. They will also be sharing interesting anecdotes, including unusual wills received in the office.
The Bucks County Register of Wills is responsible for appointing the personal representative of a decedent’s estate and is the agent for the state to collect inheritance tax. The office’s primary goal is to serve the public, especially when they may be grieving the loss of a loved one.
For more information, email Rachel Landsberg at ralandsberg@buckscounty.org. ••
Money for Sellersville Fire Department
Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick announced he has secured $163,666.66 in federal funding for the Sellersville Fire Department through the Federal Emergency Management Agency Assistance to Firefighters Grant program.
This FY23 grant will provide Sellersville Fire Department the opportunity for the modernization of its aging Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus — critical gear that safeguards and ensures firefighters remain safe in hazardous conditions. Commonly known as air packs, SCBAs are crucial for protecting firefighters by providing breathable air in smoke-filled and toxic environments. The new SCBA units feature cutting-edge technology and enhanced safety features that the department’s current gear is not equipped with. The grant funds will facilitate the acquisition of 14 SCBA harnesses, 28 air bottles, 14 facepieces and a Rapid Intervention Team pack.
“Receiving this grant is a tremendous boost for our department,” said Kurt Wagner, chief of Sellersville Fire Department. “Our current SCBA equipment, which has served us well over the years, is reaching the end of its operational life. This grant allows us to replace it with modern, reliable technology that will ensure our firefighters have the best protection available. We are immensely grateful to FEMA for their support.” ••
Farry office hours in Bensalem
State Sen. Frank Farry (R-6th dist.) is offering satellite office hours the first Wednesday of every month, from 9 a.m. to noon at the Bensalem Township Municipal Building, 2400 Byberry Road, Bensalem.
Farry’s staff will be on site to assist with state government services; Property Tax/Rent Rebate applications, birth and death certificate applications, SEPTA Senior Key card registrations and renewals; and unemployment issues. ••
Firefighters receive grants
Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-1) has secured $90,416.36 for the Tri-Hampton Rescue Squad and $43,485.71 for the Point Pleasant-Plumsteadville EMS through the Federal Emergency Management Agency Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) program.
The Tri-Hampton Rescue Squad will be able to replace outdated bunker gear and acquire essential new personal protective equipment for its full-time staff, and the Point Pleasant-Plumsteadville EMS will be able to obtain new helmets and protective gear, ensuring its team is well-equipped to safely serve the community.
Jason Dowd, Tri-Hampton Rescue Squad Chief of Operations, said, “This grant will enable our EMTs and paramedics to acquire updated gear, helping to ensure they are equipped with the best tools available to protect themselves as they assist our families and communities. Our team can now focus on their vital work with the confidence that they are adequately protected.” ••
Praise for Council Rock, MBIT
Rep. Kristin Marcell and the House Republican Policy Committee, led by Chairman Josh Kail, recently convened a hearing to examine the efforts and strategies employed by the Council Rock School District and the Middle Bucks Institute of Technology to deliver a high-quality education to their students while maintaining fiscal responsibility.
The hearing, titled “Back to School,” took place at the Middle Bucks Institute of Technology and featured testifiers Michael Roosevelt, member, Council Rock School Board; Andrew Sanko, superintendent, Council Rock School District; Mark Covelle, director, Middle Bucks Institute of Technology, whose enrollment is at an all-time high; Bob Hickey, president, Middle Bucks Institute of Technology Executive Council; Thomas McCullough, graduate of MBIT and local business owner; and Carla Zapotek, executive vice president, Home Builders Association of Bucks and Montgomery Counties.
Like all schools, those in Council Rock School District experienced setbacks and learning loss during the pandemic. With the implementation of creative programs, such as Council Rock’s “Nights for Knowledge” tutoring program, the school district has made progress getting its students back on track. The district has also created a property tax and rent rebate program for seniors to help provide relief to qualified taxpayers. Having the motto “Students First Always” plays an important role in keeping the school district’s priorities in check, explained the testifiers.
“Council Rock School District is a stellar example of a district that practices what it preaches. Through innovative programming at the helm of strong leadership, they have maintained excellent student outcomes while focusing on the needs of our families and community,” Marcell said. “Our schools need to be preparing tomorrow’s workforce. Middle Bucks Institute of Technology is doing just that, presenting opportunities for students to jumpstart family-sustaining careers without crippling debt and ultimately boosting Pennsylvania’s economy.” ••
Lower South supervisor meeting schedule
The Lower Southampton Township Board of Supervisors meets at 7:30 p.m. on the second and fourth Wednesdays of the month at the Township Building, 1500 Desire Ave., Feasterville. The next meeting is Aug. 28. ••
Fire company funding
Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick announced that he has secured $251,653.33 for Richlandtown Fire Company through the Federal Emergency Management Agency Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) program.
With the FY23 funding, Richlandtown Fire Co. will be afforded the opportunity to replace its aging and outdated portable radios with 28 state-of-the-art, universal band models. These new radios are crucial for ensuring firefighters can seamlessly communicate across multiple frequencies, enabling effective coordination with mutual-aid fire companies in Lehigh and Northampton counties. The upgrade is vital to the mission of serving and protecting the community with greater efficiency and effectiveness.
“We are extremely grateful to be awarded the FEMA AFG grant allowing us to purchase new portable radios. As a result, our firefighters will have an essential lifeline that will connect them to outside operations fulfilling the fire company’s mission to protect life, property and safely participate in a unified command structure,” said JR Slifer, president of Richlandtown Fire Company. ••
Bensalem Council meeting schedule
Bensalem Township Council meetings are generally held on the second and fourth Mondays of each month at 7 p.m. in the Municipal Building at 2400 Byberry Road, Bensalem.
Meetings can be viewed live on Comcast Xfinity Channel 22 in Bensalem and on Verizon Fios Channel 34 throughout Bucks County. They can also be streamed live on the Bensalem Township YouTube channel.
The schedule is Aug. 26, Sept. 9, Sept. 23, Oct. 15 (Tuesday), Oct. 28, Nov. 12 (Tuesday), Nov. 25, Dec. 4 (budget meeting) and Dec. 16. ••
Fitzpatrick attends intelligence meetings abroad
Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick, chairman of the National Intelligence Subcommittee of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence and member of the NATO Parliamentary Assembly, recently led a weeklong series of intelligence meetings in Liberia, Nigeria, the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Germany.
The mission was to conduct official oversight and gain a deeper understanding of the regional dynamics and stability impacts related to U.S. missions in Africa, focusing on power competition, foreign mineral exploitation, human rights violations, governance and historical and religious considerations.
During the trip, Fitzpatrick met with government and security officials. He also met with Tigran Gambaryan, a United States citizen detained in a Nigerian prison, as well as with Congolese officials to advocate for the release of another American. Acting as a surrogate in negotiations, Fitzpatrick saw through the successful release of the detained U.S. citizen from DRC custody on July 19, and he has since been reunited with his family in America.
In a statement, Fitzpatrick said, “From July 12 through July 19, I traveled through Liberia, Nigeria and the Democratic Republic of the Congo on a fact-finding mission to assess national security and intelligence-related matters and solidify essential relationships with our key counterparts and strategic partners abroad.
“I met with government officials, military leaders, security officials and Tigran Gambaryan, a United States citizen who is being detained in a Nigerian prison. I requested our embassy work swiftly to secure his immediate release. I also met with officials in the DRC to advocate for the release of another detained American. Today, I am proud to share we have brought that young American home and extend my thanks to the Congolese officials for their cooperation and collaboration in ensuring this safe release.
“While we celebrate this victory, our work is far from over. There are still Americans, like Tigran, enduring unimaginable trauma in detention around the world, and we will not rest until they are home. The United States stands as a beacon of democracy and freedom, and it is incumbent upon all elected officials to uphold our obligation to promote democracy through strength and peace and ensure the safety of our nation and citizens. I am determined to continue this mission by fostering strategic partnerships and collaborations with our international allies that safeguard our national and global security. I will continue to work diligently through appropriate channels to address the cases of Americans detained abroad, including Mr. Gambaryan’s situation in Nigeria.” ••
Bensalem school board meeting schedule
The Bensalem Township Board of School Directors holds meetings on the fourth Tuesday of each month at 7:30 p.m. at the Dorothy D. Call Administrative Center, 3000 Donallen Drive, Bensalem.
The next meeting will take place on Aug. 27.
The public is invited to attend.
Future meetings are on Sept. 24, Oct. 22, Nov. 26 and Dec. 17 (third Tuesday). ••
AOH presents Fitzpatrick with prestigious award
Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick received the 2024 John F. Kennedy Memorial Medal from the National Chapter of the Ancient Order of Hibernians at its 102nd National AOH-LAOH Convention.
The AOH John F. Kennedy Memorial Medal is the highest and most prestigious honor bestowed by the Ancient Order of Hibernians and is awarded to individuals who are “outstanding in his or her field of endeavor” and have made extraordinary contributions to the Irish-American community and the broader cause of peace and unity. Recipients of the JFK Medal are national leaders whose dedication to promoting Irish heritage, advocating for peace and upholding social justice has left an indelible mark on the world.
“We were proud to celebrate our Hibernian brother, Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick, and present him with the prestigious AOH John F. Kennedy Medal at the 102nd Biennial AOH-LAOH Convention. Congressman Fitzpatrick’s tireless dedication to peace and justice in Ireland and steadfast commitment to bipartisan leadership resonate deeply with the core values of our organization. His unwavering efforts as a problem solver, both in Congress and within his community, are inspiring and have left an indelible mark. His ability and commitment to bridge divides, seek common ground and serve as a champion of peace, unity and the values we cherish makes him a truly deserving recipient of this distinguished award. Once again, we extend our heartfelt congratulations and gratitude for his continued service and support,” said AOH National President Sean Pender.
“Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick is a leader who recognizes the role Irish Americans play in our country. He is not only a member of the Ancient Order of Hibernians, but a brother and son of proud members of our Order. The JFK Memorial Medal is the most prestigious award given by our noble order since being established in the 1960s. Brian’s selection from a distinguished field of candidates is a true tribute to him being a multi-generational Hibernian who truly understands the importance that the Irish had in building not only this great country but the special relationship shared by Ireland and the United States of America,” said Bucks County AOH President Bill Lacey.
“It is such a great honor to have Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick as one of our members of the Michael Dougherty Division 1 of the Ancient Order of Hibernians in America located in Bristol, PA, receive the John F. Kennedy Memorial medal. Brian is constantly working diligently across the aisle for all of his constituents to make things better for all of us and the Irish causes and has been at the forefront of the Irish needs both here in the United States and in Ireland. We are glad and proud to have him as a Brother Hibernian. Thank you, Brian, for everything that you do,” said AOH Michael Dougherty Division 1 (Bristol, PA) President Jeff Sproehnle.
“Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick has an incredible interest in and knowledge of the critically important issues affecting Ireland and, as such, is widely recognized by the Irish community as a true friend of Ireland. All of the members of AOH Division 5 in Levittown are extremely proud of Brian and appreciative of his dedication to the AOH and Irish-American community in Bucks County. On behalf of all of us at Division 5, I want to extend congratulations on this truly well-deserved honor,” said AOH Division 5 (Levittown, PA) President Ken Moran.
Fitzpatrick is a member of the Friends of Ireland Caucus, champion for the International Fund for Ireland and advocate for preserving peace in Northern Ireland. ••
Commissioners meeting
The Bucks County Commissioners meet on the first and third Wednesdays of the month at 10:30 a.m. at the Bucks County Administration Building, 55 E. Court St., in Doylestown.
The meetings are broadcast on the county’s YouTube channel.
The next meeting will be Aug. 21. ••
